Why I Wear a Helmet with Beezie Madden

By Erin Gilmore

Use Your Head – Wear A Helmet
Last winter Beezie and John Madden went on a skiing holiday. Between the busy schedules of an international show jumper (her) and an FEI official and coach (him), it had been at least six years since the couple had taken time off from horses to hit the slopes. Once suited up, the pair quickly realized they were missing an essential element. Halfway down their first run, John and Beezie became acutely aware that they were the only two skiers on the mountain not wearing ski helmets.

This realization made the vacationers feel uncomfortable on many levels. So much in fact that post that initial run down the mountain they went straight to the ski shop and bought helmets.

In January Beezie attended the Riders4Helmets Helmet Safety Symposium 2011, held in Wellington, Florida, and retold this story to illustrate a very important point. She explained, “If more people did it (especially well regarded Olympic level riders) more people would get comfortable doing it.”

Beezie was attesting to the importance of helmet use while riding horses, and pointed out that if a sport such as skiing, in which helmet use was nonexistent a decade ago, can experience a universal shift to helmet wearing, there’s no reason that the horse industry can’t do the same.

New Rules, New Trends
Recent rule changes by the U.S. Equestrian Federation to enact stricter helmet laws in the disciplines of dressage and eventing are a good step, says Beezie, but we still have more to do.

Referring to the recently passed rule change for dressage that requires helmets with the exception of those “competing only in FEI levels and tests at the Prix St. Georges level and above.” Beezie agreed with one exception. “I wish they [USEF] had gone so far as to say that dressage riders had to wear helmets at the grand prix level. It’s important that the top riders wear their helmets, and be seen wearing their helmets.”

The helmet-wearing campaign launched by Riders4Helmets.com in April of 2010 was initiated after Olympic dressage rider Courtney King-Dye fell from a horse and sustained a traumatic brain injury that left her in a coma for nearly a month. Thousands rallied around Courtney, who was not wearing a helmet at the time of her fall, in the weeks after the incident, and since then the discipline of dressage has seen a remarkable shift in perception towards helmet use. At the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games last fall, dressage bronze medalist Steffen Peters donned his helmet during the awards ceremony, and dedicated his ride to Courtney, who was in the audience watching.

Show Jumpers Should Strap One On
Currently sponsored by Charles Owen Helmets, and previously sponsored by GPA, Beezie has longstanding relationships with helmet makers. She became one of the first three riders in the United States to wear a GPA helmet back when the popular style still leant towards the velvet hunt caps of yesteryear. At that time, a GPA “skunk stripe” noticeably stuck out, but “I figured if it was a safer helmet, it was a good thing,” the top rider noted. “If it got a lot of people to wear safer helmets and if it saved one or two lives, not to mention maybe my life, that was a big deal.”

A two-time Olympic gold medalist and show jumping icon, Beezie is fully aware that thousands of horse enthusiasts look up to her and other grand prix show jumpers as role models. She believes that not wearing her helmet, even in the warm up ring at a competition, sets a bad example for the up and comers who watch her and tend to emulate her every move. “For the last four or five years, I’ve always had a helmet on, every time I’m on a horse.”

“I think that USEF has already gone a long ways in saying that juniors at hunter/jumper shows have to wear a helmet all the time, and lots of venues have helmet rules,” she commented. “Saying that everyone at hunter/jumper shows has to wear a helmet is the next step for sure.”

Old habits are hard to change, but as we all know a random spook or misstep can happen at any time, and can cause any level of rider to fall off unexpectedly. Beezie sincerely hopes that it won’t take a serious head injury incurred by a nationally known jumper rider to change rules and minds in her discipline. As skiers on the slopes can attest, global acceptance and change is possible.

RESOURCES:
Ride smart and strap one on. Everyone’s Doing it! Check out:
www.riders4helmets.com

Information on what’s happening with helmet rules and more:http://sidelinesnews.com/blogs/whatshappenin/usef-passes-new-safety-helmet-rules-for-eventing-and-dressage-riders.html

USEF Press Release:
www.usef.org/_IFrames/newsdisplay/viewPR.aspx?id=6569&star=true 

Dressage & Eventing Rule Changes:
www.usef.org/_IFrames/RuleBook/Changes/2011.aspx

 

Conversations With Equestrians: Michael Stone

Can ESP (WEF) + Stone = WEG 2018 for the FEI?
The right mix of masters could bring the WEG back to the US, or so we would like to speculate… I had the chance to interview one of the individuals who could make this happen, Michael Stone. We spoke twice this year, once in Wellington during the WEG trials at WEF and then again in Lexington directly before the WEG Final Four on Saturday night. We touched on WEF and WEG impressions and strategies.

Who is Michael Stone?
Born and raised in Ireland, Stone, 52, is a former International show jumping rider. He also competed in Eventing and Dressage at a national level.

Michael Stone

Aside from his riding experience, I would venture to say he has an extremely well rounded resume in equestrian sport. Stone has held several titles at the Federation level spanning two decades, including Secretary General of the Equestrian Federation of Ireland from 1987-1997 as well as FEI Assistant Secretary General, FEI Sports Director and FEI Secretary General from 1997-2007.

Plus he has served as Team Manager of the Irish Team and the Irish Junior and Young Riders Teams during several national and international events, including the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta and the 1994 FEI World Equestrian Games in The Hague. Before he joined the FEI in 1997, he also spent five years as Management Director of his family’s horse feed business.

Within a week after leaving the FEI, Stone was standing on the polo field at Wellington with Mark Bellissimo of ESP. That was 2007 and after a year of consulting, Stone became a permanent fixture in Wellington.

EqSol: Tell us about all the hats you’ve worn and how they fit.
MS:
 I feel quite lucky to have worn all these ‘hats’ in so many aspects of the sport. It certainly gives me unique perspective and I don’t think many people have had that opportunity.

I was involved in governing eventing, dressage and show jumping in my role as the Secretary General of the Irish Federation (the title is considered to be synonymous with President or CEO). Government of a sport means constantly learning about the many layers of what makes the sport tick, from the rules and regulations to those who are committed to competition. When I managed the Irish teams it was not only rewarding to further support the sport, but I gained an inside look at how difficult the role of a rider truly is. That experience gave me invaluable insight to working with riders through the FEI and now understanding the exhibitors at WEF and the other events hosted by ESP.

In my tenure with the FEI, what I had garnered in my years serving the Irish Federation helped me to rise to the role of developing and enforcing the rules for the Olympic disciplines of show jumping, dressage, and three-day eventing as well as for endurance, reining, vaulting, driving in more than 130 countries. One of the most interesting projects I worked with was facilitating the establishment of the FEI Coaching System. It’s a system that works with developing not just riders but coaches for developing countries. Many of the South American riders we see here developed under that system. Jeremy Mullins leads it now.

My current position as president for ESP is very different than my previous positions in non-profit, governing organizations. Here we are motivated to create the best show in the world, an equestrian destination.

EqSol: Tell us more about how you landed here and what you do in your current position.
MS:
 In 2007, I had a disagreement with Princess Haya. Essentially one of us had to go, she was appointed and I was hired, so it was me. I left the FEI on a Wednesday, Mark Bellissimo called me on Friday, Saturday we had a deal and by the following Wednesday I was standing in the polo field. For the first year I worked as a consultant from Switzerland and now I live here permanently.

I’m involved in every aspect of the business from sponsorship and marketing to scheduling and special events. I run the business of equestrian show business. And show in this sense truly does have a double meaning – one being top-notch competition for riders at all levels and the other is fabulous equestrian entertainment for spectators of all ages.

EqSol: What have you done and propose to do for WEF competitors?
MS:
 What have I done? Spent millions changing all the footing. I worked with Mark to find the right people and put new European footing in every ring. I had new jumps built. We bring in top judges, top course designers to a world-class facility. We reduced the entry fees for the Grand Prix classes by 10%. We worked on the show schedule, introduced new classes likes the Young Rider Grand Prix, a $500,000 Grand Prix, a Puissance during Nations Cup Week, and the Charity Event will return this year. We raised $500,000 for charities in 2010, this year our goal is to raise a million.

We are also working with the USEF to give the top thirty riders on the computer list a special deal for their rankings, a similar concept to the invitational style in Europe.

We continue to invest in the property. We consolidated the showgrounds, all competition will be on the north end now. All our numbers – sponsorships, entries vendors – are up, not down. I think what we have done and the continued enhancements planned are culminating to achieve our goal of creating the best for the best. If you want to compete at the top of the sport, you come here.

Palm Beach International Equestrian Center © Dunn’s Arial Photography

EqSol: For spectators?
MS:
 Currently the shows are geared more towards the exhibitors than the spectators. We aim to enhance the spectator experience, but it is a slow process. We continue to promote our evening events. We offer a nice media center and encourage media to cover events. There is a list of great classes worthy of press coverage. We would like to see TV coverage, that comes from bigger sponsors and larger audiences, both of which we are developing.

EqSol: Speaking of world-class, we are fresh off the 2010 WEG. Based on your experience, will you share your impressions?
MS:
 This is the first WEG where I haven’t had an official role as Team Manager or on staff, so that was a big change. All World Championships are fantastic. It’s the best quality in horses and riders. Lexington is horse country and the setting is beautiful. Both the indoor and outdoor stadiums are fabulous and the courses from the footing to the creative jumps to the design were excellent.

There were some issues with this event, possibly some unavoidable and certainly ones we can learn from. As fabulous as the Kentucky Horse Park is, the grounds are spread out over acres so there was a lot of distance between venues. Not only did that mean a lot of walking for spectators, but more significantly it is a loss of intimacy. In places like Aachen and Wellington the layout is more compact. You feel closer to the riders and the action. Pricing was another factor. It was expensive to truly experience the entire games, so most attended their discipline only. A lot of the other disciplines could have drawn more crowds had seats been available for a low general admission price.

Of course it’s easy to be wise post event. Overall I believe thousands of equestrians from all over the world had a memorable experience.

EqSol: And tell us about your plan to bid on the WEG in 2018.
MS:
 The bid is due next year. It is an intensely detailed proposal. We’ve been working with Wellington Village, Palm Beach city government and the state of Florida on the plan and the potential economic impact. In Lexington the impact was estimated at $180 million. Already a strong tourist and equestrian state, I think it the impact could be more in Florida.

Our experience at ESP is apparent and the facility footprint is similar to Aachen – compact. With the international arena and the extensive stabling, parking for competitors and spectators with separate entrances, we have an established infrastructure. We would definitely have to expand in particular areas, build more seats, a cross-country course and other details in order to host a World Championship event spanning eight disciplines. But our current team is strong and can run an event of this magnitude.

After we submit our bid we won’t know the decision until April of 2013. That would give us five years to prepare.

EqSol: So what ideas do you have to create the ultimate WEG?
MS:
 An intimate equestrian experience that supports every aspect of the sport – reasonably priced for the spectators with opportunities to interact with the energy of the event and a fantastic facility for competition.

Economic impact aside, bringing the WEG to Florida would mean the entire state focuses on equestrian sport. It raises awareness, generates improvements to streets and roads, telecommunications and infrastructures. It makes equines and equestrians a central focus and that is ultimately what it is all about – the horse and horse sport.

Thank you Michael for sharing your knowledge and insight. We will see you at future WEFs and look forward to WEG 2018 in Wellington.

Conversations With Equestrians: Lucy Davis

Look Out for Lucy
Committed, focused, intelligent and competitive, Lucy Davis is a trainer’s dream. Both natural and exceptional, the young equestrian exemplifies talent. And furthermore, she is soft spoken, kind and zen-like. A senior in high school, Lucy competes in the Big Eq and in the Big Jumpers. She not only rides in both indoor and outdoor grand prix classes, she does it a certain sense of experience that comes with natural talent. She’s won at the highest level offered for junior jumper riders, including Indoors and Young Riders, but also ribbons against professionals.

Lucy is also lucky. She not only has supportive parents – her mom ranks way up there on the horse showmom meter – but one of her best friends, Patrick, lives at home in the barn.

We interviewed her on the eve of the ASPCA Maclay Regionals in September. Since our chat just over a month ago, she has placed 7th and 12th in two $50,000 World Cup Qualifying Grand Prix classes. Back East at Indoors she was 4th in the USEF Medal Finals at Harrisburg.

Lucy Davis and Enrico, Best Pony Rider
2005 Menlo Charity HS © JumpShot
EqSol: Your start with horses?
LD:
 My grandfather works in horse racing so my mom grew up around it. When she moved to Los Angeles she started riding at Sullivan Canyon – we now live there. I’ve been riding in the Canyon since I could walk, pretty much. Just for fun but I was always around it. I started taking lessons when I was five, with Chacha Levinson.EqSol: Your firsts… First blue ribbon?
LD:
 At the Santa Barbara National when I was six. I won a flat class on my pony, Biscuits ‘N Gravy.

EqSol: First time on a jumper?
LD:
 I rode in the pony jumpers when I was about 10 or 11. But when I moved to Archie (Cox), my mom wanted me to stick with hunters and eq. I was about thirteen when I got my first jumper with Archie, Mister Mind.

EqSol: First Grand Prix?
LD:
 It was at a fall show in Del Mar a couple of years ago. I rode True Love. I think it went well, I don’t remember. [In fact it was the $25,000 CA Horsetrader Grand Prix at the 2008 Del Mar Fall Festival, and she was second behind Stefanie Saperstein] 

EqSol: And with all this Grand Prix show jumping, you are still competing in the Big Eq?
LD:
 Yes, I have a bad birthday – late October – so this is my last year for most of the medal finals. I hope to qualify tonight for the ASPCA (she did, placing 15th) and also competed in the WIHS Eq Finals (this past week) and USEF Medal Final (she was 4th).

EqSol: You have worked extensively with two trainers and recently made a change. Some history?
LD:
 I’ve ridden with Archie since I was 12 years old, when I was ready to show more and move to horses from ponies. And I still love it after six years. Archie has an intense work ethic – he is the hardest worker I know. When I was ready to focus on the high level jumpers, I started riding with Dick Carvin. That was about three years ago.

I ride every day at home. We keep my equitation horse Patrick and some of my old hunters at our small barn in Sullivan Canyon. It’s a little horse neighborhood where most of the houses have barns and we use the community arenas and riding areas. I did take lessons at Middle Ranch (where Archie and Dick both have their home operations) on weekends when I wasn’t showing.

News flash: Since our interview in September, Lucy’s jumpers moved to Sandstone in Thousand Oaks, CA where she will be working with Gaby Salick and Markus Beerbaum. Post competing in the ASPCA Maclay Finals in Syracuse, NY in early November her next show jumping competition will be in Buenos Aires the following week!

EqSol: Dick told me you were one of the most focused individuals he has ever met. Your thoughts on that?
LD:
 That’s a great compliment. I am the kind of person that gets something in my head and can focus on it intensely. I guess I am lucky to have that ability but it does work against me sometimes.

EqSol: You’ve excelled in each discipline – under Archie’s tutelage you’ve earned championships in hunters on both coasts and top medal final placings in equitation, then with Dick as your coach Young Rider victories, Grand Prix starts and last year Europe…
LD:
 I was lucky to get the chance to go to Frankfort for the European Young Masters League last December. Each of the medalists at Young Riders got a wild card spot to compete with the top 30 European riders. I was the only one that could go.

EqSol: And didn’t you win?
LD:
 [smile] I did. I got lucky. I also got to tag along with Meredith Michaels Beerbaum and established a friendship. That led to this past summer’s adventure.

EqSol: Tell us more about summer 2010.
LD:
 I spent about a month in Germany showing with Markus and Meredith Beerbaum. It was the best summer of my life so far. I learned so much, not only about technical riding skills but also on the ground about being a horseman. What tack to use, preparing the horse for the class… it was a very focused and knowledgeable environment.

I made a lot of great friends. Stefanie Saperstein and Navona Gallegos were both there and another American from Alabama who is now a working student, Christy. There was a guy from Kuwait and a group of working students from Finland, so all together it was about 10 of us.

Competing in Europe has such a great feel. The shows have so many spectators, and not just horse people. One show the entire town came to watch, it was a big event. Equestrians are treated like pro athletes over there. I competed in three shows and it was an awesome experience all the way around. It all came together at my last show, especially with my younger horse Hannah.

EqSol: Your favorite spot in Europe?
LD:
 Madrid by far. I will live in Spain sometime in this lifetime.

EqSol: Your favorite equestrians?
LD:
 Meredith of course. The French rider Penelope Leprevost. And Laura Kraut, she’s also a really nice person.

EqSol: Now that you’ve had international experience, if there was a horse you could ride who would it be?
LD:
 It would probably be this fabulous horse I saw in Frankfurt ridden by Marco Kutcher, Cornet Obelinsky. A big white horse that floats over the jumps, it is just amazing to watch. And I think everyone would like a chance to ride Shutterfly. It’s probably true that only one person can ride him, but it would be fun to try. He’s 17 years old and just did the Grand Prix at Aachen. He loves his job and is definitely still in the game. Meredith and Marcus take excellent care of the horses.

Lucy Davis and Nemo 119
2010 $35,000 Blenheim Spring
Classic II Grand Prix © JumpShot
EqSol: And your jumpers?
LD:
 Hannah is nine-year-old mare. We bought her about a year ago and we’ve both been working on getting comfortable at the bigger heights. We’ve both blossomed and she’s really coming along. I was happy with her last night [in the World Cup Qualifier]. We had two down, but nothing disastrous – just little things we can work on. She’s been confident at the bigger jumps and I’m really proud of her. Nemo 119 is a more rambunctious and feisty type. I’ve only had him since January; he is more experienced in the bigger classes than I am. Really a sweet horse at the barn but he gives me a hard time in the ring. He really makes me work for it. He’s a character, to say the least.EqSol: What are your college plans? Horses?
LD:
 I graduate this year in June. I set really lofty personal goals, and I did that with college too. I don’t want to jinx anything so I’m hesitant to say where. It is so competitive these days, the counselors at school say that 80% of people who apply to the best schools are fully qualified, but only 6-9% get in.So it’s a crapshoot. Once I do go I’ll probably be on the five-year plan. I’m a perpetual learner. And yes, I’d love to ride while in college.EqSol: Your riding goals? Career goals?
LD:
 I want to start doing better at the Grand Prix level. I definitely need experience in small indoor rings with big jumps. It’s pretty hard actually. I’ve jumped a big course but when you put them in a tight space there’s not a lot of room for error.My dream is every aspiring rider’s dream – to go to the Olympics. And also to compete at Aachen. I went to watch this summer, it was an amazing event.I don’t think I have the patience to be a trainer. I will have to see after college. I think if I were to choose it would be film director or writer but I do want to see how far I can go with riding. If I am at a place where it is realistic to keep going and do well at some of the highest levels I will pursue it. Riding is my passion. As of now riding is a big priority. But I will go to college.

EqSol: We find that behind most superb young riders is an awesome parent or two. Tell us about yours.
LD:
 [smiling] My mom is definitely awesome and my dad loves it too. He comes to a lot of the horse shows but stays low key. My younger brother Clay (almost 15) is an all-around sports guy and has been coming to the shows for ten years, not necessarily happily. As much as he feigns he hates it, he’s really a softie and very supportive. My mom is totally committed, I think she has spent at least three birthdays at Harrisburg. That says a lot. She is not just there for me, but she is really curious about how it all works and always eager to learn. At the same time she stays behind the scenes, she is never overbearing. I really admire that about her. She has my old hunter Gallatea and takes lessons for fun.

Lucy Davis and Patrick
2009 Del Mar National © Rick Osteen
EqSol: And finally, who is your best friend that lives in the barn?
LD:
 We’ve had Patrick since he was five and now he’s eight. He’s lived at our house since the beginning and we’ve established a good relationship. He is one of the sweetest horses I have ever met. Whether you’ve had a good day or a bad day, you can go into his stall and cuddle. Patrick is a great friend.What an exciting time for you – ending your junior career and finishing high school. Already into the grand prix show jumping chapter of your riding and then college… We wish you all the best and look forward to hearing about your future successes!

Conversations With Equestrians: Bernie Traurig

By Whitney Campbell and Jackie McFarland

Bernie Traurig
Bernie Traurig’s involvement with horses began early and never faltered. From his first trail ride to his genuine backyard stables, a pre-fab garage that his father made into a stall and tack room, it seemed as if a childhood passion was destined to turn into something more serious. Dedicating most of his young rider success to his experiences at Meadowbrook Pony Club in Long Island, New York, and his trainer of four years, Captain Vladimir S. Littauer, Traurig went on to win both the AHSA (now USEF) Medal Finals and the prestigious ASPCA Medal Maclay Finals at the age of 16.

Highlights of Traurig’s career included winning over 60 Show Jumping Grand Prix events and representing the United States Show Jumping Team several times including the 1982 World Championships in Dublin, Ireland. He has competed in eight World Cup Finals. Traurig mastered the high levels of Dressage, winning 15 Grand Prix and Grand Prix special classes. He was short listed for the 1986 World Championship Trials and the 1988 Olympic Games. In 2009 he was inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame. Reaching the top of the sport in three of the International Equestrian Olympic disciplines: Show Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing, he is recognized as a legend in the sport. As a teacher and trainer, he is successful and sought after clinician.

After building 53 years worth of training and riding techniques and experiences with thousands of horses, Traurig is not only driven to give back to the sport but realized the infinite value of the web as a teaching tool. He developed a virtual place,EquestrianCoach.com, where quality education is accessible and affordable for every equestrian online, regardless of background, level, or geographic location.

As the monumental 2010 FEI Alltech World Equestrian Games came to a close and Lexington resumed its life post-WEG, we got a chance to catch up with Bernie Traurig, George Morris’ Associate Chef d’Equipe on the West Coast for the United States Equestrian Team. Traurig was an integral member of the USET selection committee and we got the inside scoop on his lifelong journey in the sport, the team’s overall performance at the Games, a surprise Saudi association and his perspective on the future of the sport.

EQSOL: When did you know you wanted to ride at an international level?
BT:
 After I won the Maclay, I started riding jumpers with Vladimir S. Littauer (one of Traurig’s mentors). When I was eighteen I had a decision to make, college or professional rider, and of course my dad wanted me to go to college. I had an opportunity to go to Gladstone, New Jersey, headquarters of the Unites States Equestrian Team. Riders stayed there, rode team horses, squads were chosen, and I also had an open door to be a working student under Frank Chapot. It took a dinner with my coach, Vladimir S. Littauer and William Steinkraus (Captain of the United States Equestrian Show Jumping Team) to convince my Dad that going to Gladstone would be my college education. I spent two and half years riding under Stephan Von Vishy, coach of the US Eventing Team, almost a year with Bert de Nemethy and from there I went into the real world.

EQSOL: What was the transition from Bernie the rider to Bernie the trainer?
BT:
 I was second at the Olympic Trials for the 3-day Team, and my horse injured a tendon, one week before the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo so I wasn’t able to go. Soon after I had to find a way to earn a living. I tried racehorses but it wasn’t for me. So I went into business for myself. I was newly married and young, 21, but I had a ‘sheepskin’ to hang on my shingle, I had won the Maclay and trained on the US Eventing Team. We bought a nice turnkey farm in Pennsylvania. Of course I wore a lot of hats in the beginning. I drove the van, braided for shows, taught kids, including Cynthia Hankins and Cindy Weiner (USEF judges). Michael Matz was one of my working students. We also had sale horses – I sold Idle Dice to Rodney Jenkins. I specialized in hunters and equitation that was how I made a living. I went on to jumpers later, and didn’t win my first Grand Prix until I was 27.

EQSOL: What Committees do you serve on and your role in the sport?
BT:
 I have served on the Show Jumping High Performance Committee for almost four years. I have been George Morris’ Associate Chef d’Equipe on the West Coast for the United States Equestrian Team and the Chairman of the West Coast Active Riders for the past five years. This year I was one of the selectors for the 2010 World Equestrian Games Team. After all these years it’s nice to be able to take your expertise and give back to the sport through these committees. When you are competing, your focus is on yourself and your career. Serving on committees is volunteer and very time consuming, more than just a few meetings here and there. Now I’m able to spend the time and I find it very rewarding. I am also proud to be accepting the CPHA (California Professional Horseman’s Award) Lifetime Achievement Award in January 2011.

George Morris and Bernie Traurig

EQSOL: Your association with Chef D’Equipe George Morris goes back many years – give us an inside look at how his mind works.
BT:
 His mind is like a steel trap. He is quite an incredible person. I don’t know how he does it to tell you the truth. He doesn’t take it seriously, that is too light of a term. George is completely obsessed and possessed with the job. His contract is up after the next Olympics and I don’t know of anyone who could fill his shoes. He is on board at every show that the riders are at, especially the Team riders. He can tell you how many faults and scores each rider had at each show off the top of his head. No one has better insight than he does. His experience is unmatched and he is respected by everyone – riders, directors, executive committees – every level. They rely on him to put his insight into their program. He is instrumental in guiding the riders on how to be horsemen but never interferes with their individual programs. He is a master at his job.

EQSOL: How the Selection Process works – what you did in 2010 to help choose the WEG Team?
BT:
 The 2010 WEG US Show Jumping Team Selectors were Molly Ashe, Mark Leone, and myself. Alternates were Robert Ridland, Katie Prudent and Ray Texel. Everyone participated in watching the riders and in the selection of the team. After the trials in Florida the long list of fifteen was chosen, and then divided into three groups. I wanted to see each group, and went to Rome and Aachen, but I missed Dublin because I was ill. There were also many conference calls amongst us. Ultimately the selectors, in consultation with George and the team vet, Tim Ober, chose the team.

EQSOL: What was your impression of the WEG and what happened there.
BT:
 George said to me – ‘Bernie, it could have gone either direction. We had a great team and not one thing went right after the first day.’ The competition started off with a bang but a lot of unforeseen mishaps occurred. Mario Deslauriers was coming off of a solid European Tour and Spruce Meadows. He had a great first day going quick and clean for the lead, but then the horse pulled a shoe just before his second round, which probably played a role in faults there. And he had a very unfortunate ride at the triple bar on Wednesday. Mclain Ward came off two big wins, the Hamptons and the Pfizer Million. His speed round was excellent, as expected, and the third night Sapphire looked tired and not herself. He then made a brilliant comeback and jumped world-class in the individual on Friday.

Laura Kraut had a problem early on with a carriage going by the warm up arena. Cedric lit up and she was very strong on course day one. She had one unfortunate rub in the first round of the nations cup and then came back with a clean world-class second round.

Lauren Hough’s horse got spooked outside in the warm up, and as George put it, ‘got a bee in its bonnet’ and ran out at the last oxer several times and then had to go off that. Clearly that shook her up a bit, and threw her off her game plan. A fabulous team with a solid record and perfect preparation that collectively had a lot of mishaps coming together at the wrong time.

Traurig with the Saudi Team

I talked with the Saudi’s right after it was over. I have a long history and strong connection with that team. Khaled was my boy. I trained him and the rest of the team, with the exception of Abdullah al Sharbatly who is younger, and several other Saudi’s for seven years at Albert Court in Rancho Santa Fe. I was very proud of all of them.

My association started by chance in 1987 when I met Ziyad Abdul Jawad. He was going to Pepperdine and came to me looking for a horse. He said, ‘I want to ride on the Olympic Team, but I have never jumped before.’ So we started from scratch and he did very well. He was ranked second in the country in the high Amateur Owner division and then retired to go into business with his father. He introduced me to his cousin, Fahad Zahid, whose daughter, Alya still owns and operates Albert Court Limited in Rancho Santa Fe where I trained the Saudi boys. Fahad was also extremely instrumental in my career sponsoring me with three grand prix jumpers, Maybe Forever, Eastern Sunrise, and Corsair. I went to Saudi Arabia several times, and together with Ziyad helped start the National Federation over there. That was a key chapter in my career; it was rewarding to see them do so well.

EQSOL: Talented riders – from EAP to WEG – how should we address all the levels, including grassroots?
BT:
 Where are we headed? Seems in the right direction as long as we keep in mind that the kids need the option of good programs, for every level of rider. The lower level rider needs help to get up to the high levels as well as giving opportunities to the top kids. We have plenty of talent in this country, but it needs direction. We have to keep up as well as beef up our focus for our youth programs and on how we can get them to the super league status. It’s happening, the Young Rider tour in Europe went very well this year, but we need to continue developing on an annual basis.

How do we define grassroots? It is pretty broad, as there are only a select group of kids that can afford to ride, train and compete at the elite levels. I used to argue that this sport wasn’t only for the elite; I didn’t come from a wealthy family, but these days it is extremely expensive to compete consistently at the best horse shows. I wouldn’t have had the means and I can’t keep my kids in the show ring. How many kids are out there that go unnoticed because they can’t afford a six-figure horse as well as to compete on that horse? Not that we don’t have some incredible talent, we most certainly do. Young Riders and George’s Mastership Program prove that, and I would like to see those kids reach super league status. But there are more.

What is the future of our sport? All the expenses shut out a lot of potential talent. It is tough to even have a barn in the backyard when a bale of hay costs almost $25. Today, the cost of the horse is so exorbitant. Even buying young horses to train and sell for profit, the cost to educate the horses at shows and the monthly costs on top make it near impossible to make any money, unless it’s a real superstar, which is rare. Is there a way we can slow it down? I hope so. I don’t know how, but I hope there’s a way for everyone to enjoy this fabulous sport.

So my hope is that some checks and balances occur. If I had a crystal ball I’d like to look ahead fifteen years and see ways for talented riders to have a chance. Bring back a little of the old ways to mix with the new. Part of the answer is sponsors – we need to continue to develop great sponsors of the sport.

From individuals to associations, many of us involved in the sport are seeking for more answers.

EQSOL: What is your advice for up and coming riders?
BT:
 Focus on apprenticeships with the best in the sport. Young riders need to latch onto a top person in the sport and get under their wing. Make it an education and utilize the knowledge that the pros have and absorb it. Today’s world is too quick. You can’t get an education in three months. Instead, spend a few years absorbing, training, riding and teaching. Find somebody that you respect and apprentice with them, don’t rush. And go to college, which is another essential part of education.

Bernie and his wife Cait in the Equestrian Coach studio green room

EQSOL: You have come up with your own answers to today’s world embracing technology…
BT:
 In 2007, I tried to figure out how to offer top-notch knowledge to the masses via the web at affordable prices. It was a long and arduous process learning and developing the content management, streaming, getting the best quality, high definition, wireless broadband, etc. Once we were on the path, it took almost a year and a half to get the site ready to launch. Finally in June of this year, we introduced EquestrianCoach.com, the online solution to affordable coaching. Our philosophy is to seek out the very best instructors in the world and bring that level of instruction to the subscriber. It’s a lot of work from concept to completed video piece. We have some great guest coaches working with us. We now have two editing bays, a green screen and full-blown plan for upcoming coaches. It’s fun, each one is a learning experience and I really enjoy it. I’m convinced that seeing it visually is the best way.

We are excited to be working with the USHJA, Pony Club, IHSA colleges, affiliate associations and individuals for member discounts. Our newest level of membership was just announced. At this new level, a member will send in their own video and in return there will be not only analysis but also video solutions to your specifics needs. The point is if you are serious and want to learn, you can access the best. It is not only one of the ways I am giving back, but one where riders have a chance to learn from top trainers annually for less than it costs to participate in a clinic.

Thank you Bernie. Those who take their expertise and offer it to all are an inspiration. From the grassroots to the Games, we appreciate your time.

 

Conversations With Equestrians: Stefanie Saperstein

Intro By Jackie McFarland, Story By Stephanie Saperstein

Stefanie Saperstein
A name we haven’t heard lately on the west coast is that of Stefanie Saperstein. The rising young star went overseas mid-year to soak up some serious European exposure. She is fully ensconced there, not only as a rider but a student as well.

Before she left on this incredible adventure, Stefanie sent us this exclusive, endearing piece about riding in a World Cup Qualifying class like the ones you’ll be watching this season. Enjoy the ride as she takes you along with her that night – it will bring tears to your eyes…

World Cup Qualifier – November 2009
I barely slept the night before. Fear and excitement kept me awake.

That night was a World Cup Qualifier, one of the few that Quanto and I had ever done, and considering it was one of the last of the year I knew it was going to be a challenge.

I got on Quanto to stretch him out before the class and I couldn’t help but think about what the little boy had done for me and how I owed him the same. He brought me to a level of competition that I had dreamt of my whole life, but never thought could be possible. That night I needed to forget about everything else and fight for him, as he always fights for me.

The night of competition I put on my show jacket and started to polish my boots as I listened to music and cleared my mind. I heard the announcement that the course was ready for walking and ran to give Quanto one last hug and kiss before heading to the ring.

I walked the course a few times on my own and then met up with Meredith [Michaels-Beerbaum] and Richard [Padilla] to discuss my plan. Meredith emphasized parts of the course that I needed to focus on, walking with me to tall verticals that seemed to tower over both of us.

As the class started, I stood behind the bleachers going over my plan in my head reminding myself that it doesn’t matter how different it is from the other riders’.

My sister Alexis inched towards me. The last time she saw me ride was over two years ago, so having her there further encouraged me. I took a quick picture with her, as we both smiled at my grandmother who was in the same box as my mom. I remember closing my eyes and being so thankful for the support that I have; the people and animals that will continue to love me no matter what happened that night.

When I was twelve rounds out, I caught sight of Guma (our fabulous groom) with Quanto and walked over to them. I asked Guma about how Quanto was and he gave me the same response as always, “He is ready to win.” I giggled and responded, “I hope I am ready to win” and as Guma helped me on he assured me that I was.

The warm up felt surreal and I was called up to the ring in what felt like seconds. I stood outside of the ring and retold Meredith my plan and she wished me good luck. I asked Richard if he thought I could do it and he replied, “Of course, it doesn’t matter how it looks, just get it done.” This is what he always says to me before going into the ring. For some reason knowing that I don’t have to “look good” is always so encouraging. As I was about to head in the ring Richard continued to ask; “Do you know how I know you are going to do great?” I asked him “How?” He simply smiled and told me to listen. And with that I entered the ring. As I trotted in I heard the Bob Sinclair song “Love Generation” which Richard knows is not only one of my favorite songs, but the one that reminds me the most of competing in Europe during the summers.

As the ring went silent and I picked up the canter, I had a smile on my face, and I knew that Quanto could feel it. We feed off of each other’s confidence as we ride around the course. I added in the first line to keep Quanto’s shape, which carried over to the rest of the round. I kept reminding myself of the time allowed, trying to stay tight through the turns while keeping a forward rhythm. There was a tight five to a tall plank bending to a triple bar- oxer double, and Quanto jumped so powerfully over the triple bar that I tapped him on the shoulder with my stick to help him get over the next oxer.

Everything was coming up so fast, but I never felt nervous, I felt as though I was watching myself the entire time. I steadied Quanto up for the skinny, a fence that we often struggle with and he jumped it with ease, allowing me to shape out the following lines. Each fence kept Quanto’s attention as he jumped over them and refused to touch a rail. I was one with him and it was unbelievably powerful. I was galloping to the final line and had to set Quanto up, as it was a careful triple combination and he was already moving at such a fast pace.

He came back to me so easily; it was shocking, and he jumped through it as well as any of the top horses out there. I continued moving to the final oxer in five strides and soared over the last fence, an instant that could easily have been eternity. The fact that I hadn’t had a fence down didn’t go through my mind until I heard the ‘victory’ music play after going through the timers. The feeling I had at that moment is almost impossible to explain.

I fell onto Quanto’s neck knowing that it was only the second time we had gone clear in a qualifier. As I left the ring my whole body was shaking. I looked over at Richard, I thought I was going to cry. He held back his emotions as he reminded me to go to the stewards to weigh Quanto’s boots.

A few tears escaped my eyes as my mother and sister ran to congratulate me on going clear, Meredith and Richard brought us all back to earth as they called me over to discuss my jump-off. Quanto and I had one more job left, and we couldn’t forget that. I knew that the other people that had gone clear were Nicole Simpson, Will Simpson, Richard Spooner and Rich Fellers, four of the riders that I admire most in the world. Just being in a jump off with these riders felt unreal to me, but I still wanted to give it a go.

My plan for the jump-off was to make a few inside turns and to gallop to the last fence. As I cantered into the ring I refused to think about the time that I had to catch or what I would have to do to win, all I wanted was to give Quanto the ride that he deserved. We ended up going clear again but were not as fast as Richard or Will, two riders with abilities that are awe-inspiring to me.

I saw Guma being congratulated by other grooms and I helped him put Quanto’s fourth place ribbon on. I remember Guma telling me that I was his winner for the night and that I am “with the big guys now.” I didn’t even know what to say, so I just gave him a big hug and thanked him, reminding him that none of this would be possible without him.

During the awards presentation and the victory gallop Quanto was having the time of his life. I turned him around while the flag was raised, because the excitement seemed to overwhelm him. When I was facing the people in the bleachers I made eye contact with a young girl who told me that Quanto was her favorite horse, and then her mother continued to say, “I will see you in the Olympics.” At that moment I felt that my work and the help that I had been so blessed to receive were all coming together.

Soon after, I was congratulated by my family, tackled by my sister and then whisked off to the autograph table. As I sat down, I remembered when I was younger and would ask for the autographs of some of the riders sitting next to me, and I couldn’t believe that I was actually there myself.

I signed a girl’s shoes and a boy’s shirt, but what meant the most to me was seeing my sister in the line gleaming with a poster in her hands. As she walked through the line she was telling everyone that I was her sister, and as I signed her poster she leaned over the table and told me, “I am so proud to be your big sister.”

I got up and gave her the biggest hug I could and saw my family over her shoulders. My mother was talking up a storm with everyone, but my grandmother was standing there silently staring at me with tears flowing out of her eyes.

As the autograph line ended I got up and walked straight to my grandmother, I held her in my arms as she told me in Swedish about how happy she was to be alive here with me. I kissed her over and over again, then wished her goodbye as I had to drive back to school for class on Monday.

Industry Innovators: EquiFit, inc

By Jackie McFarland

Alexandra Cherubini and EquiFit, inc.

Back in August of 2009 we interviewed the owner of EquiFit, inc. Alexandra Cherubini on her innovative perspective on the market. Many of you West Coast softball players and fans may remember Alexandra and her husband Camilo joining us this past June not only to present the winner of the $30,000 Copa de Amistad Grand Prix but as sponsors and participants in the Blenheim Softball Tournament. Good times had by all…

We caught up with her this week, while she was at the Hampton Classic. Always impressed with EquiFit, inc.’s approach, we asked her a few questions about the line.

EQSOL: You have a wide range of products – all innovative. Can you tell us about the inspiration for some of these items? Life influencing product – how has your life experience played a role in the product line?
AC:
 My family is in the medical supply and manufacturing business so I had grown up with various foams and materials around me. I had also witnessed the development of many products over the years. After college I worked in fashion PR in NYC and was determined to figure out a way to incorporate horses into my life.

I noticed the lack of technologically advanced materials in the equine industry and decided to combine the two worlds; medical and equine. It seemed crazy to me that the equine athlete was not being catered to and that materials to help protect, support and encourage high performance were not being introduced to the market.

Our first product was Shouldersback, which bridged three worlds: Equine, Medical and Fashion. Our next endeavor was the T-Boot Series, which was a completely new product for the market, utilizing materials that had not been seen previously in protective boots.

EQSOL: From concept to completion – can you talk about that process a bit with some of the innovative products you’ve developed? How do you keep up with the needs of your market, stay on top with all the brands out there and continue to create innovative products?
AC:
 Research and development are a big part of my job and I love that aspect. I listen and observe A LOT. I try and find what horses and riders need. We also update our existing products on a regular basis, constantly making them better and expanding on our existing line. All of our products undergo rigorous testing by a large team of riders, managers, and grooms. If the product is not solely for the Equine market, we open up our ‘test’ group to a broader field.

EQSOL: You are very active on the equestrian scene – tell us about your horse life.
AC:
 I’m currently showing three show horses: EquiFit Pozitano and EquiFit Skandalos in the Jumpers, and Poker Face in the Hunters. My horse life is intrinsic within my professional life, allowing first-hand experience with all the products both on the market and in development. It’s a labor of love and I consider myself lucky!

EQSOL: EquiFit, inc. is also a well-known name through your ads and sponsorships, as well as innovative marketing. Explain a bit about what goes into that plan…
AC: 
EquiFit is all about creativity and thinking outside of the box, whether it be in product development, searching for new materials and pragmatic solutions or in marketing and educating the consumer. Because our products do utilize such different materials than anyone else, we HAVE to reach out and educate our customers on materials used and why they are different than current offerings. We do this through print advertising, web advertising, social media and a variety of other channels.
We spend a lot of time on the ground at horse shows allowing us to gain direct customer feedback, see our product in use, work with our stores and educate riders, owners and managers about the benefits and features of our products. We feel strongly about supporting our team of riders, our customers, stores, and horse show partners. We have a great community.

Thank you Alexandra – we look forward to seeing EquiFit, inc’s name and innovative solutions continue. We wish you the best on and off the horse!

Conversations With Equestrians: Warren Wilson

Jackie McFarland

California Horsetrader‘s Warren Wilson
well-established publication, the California Horsetrader is now in its 36th year.  We had a chance to chat with publisher Warren Wilson about the past, present and future.

EQSOL: Give us a brief history about you and your involvement with horses.
WW:
 My family moved to a ranch in San Marcos in the mid-’60s. The family’s 14-acre Pepper Hill Ranch still thrives; my mother lives there with her magnificent Quarter Horses. They are well-known performance horse lines, she has a breeding stallion named Nic Chex. She still rides and is active in the community as a horse and responsible land-use advocate.

As a kid in rural San Marcos when there wasn’t even a traffic light, my pony was literally my transportation across the hill to my friends who lived on small ranches. The area was a patchwork of avocado groves and alfalfa fields, connected by dirt trails.

Now I ride when I can, but what time I have with horses revolves mostly around my 6-year-old daughter, Lily. She hasn’t shown yet, but she’s ready – she’s cantering over poles now.

EQSOL: Can you tell us about the magazine’s beginnings?
WW:
 California Horsetrader was founded in 1979 by my mom, Carolyn Read, at Pepper Hill Ranch in San Marcos. She started publishing it in the tack room of our barn.
I purchased it in 1990, and launched Horsetrader.com eight years later. We created the Horsetrader Alliance in 2005 (it consists of EquieryHorsemen’s Yankee PedlarQuarter Horse News, and Barrel Horse News).

EQSOL: What sparked your interest to get involved with the magazine?
WW:
 I have publishing in my blood. My father was an executive editor at the San Diego Evening Tribune (now the U-T) and my mother worked on several magazines. In the fifth grade, I persuaded my grade school to launch a newspaper, which we called The Richland Report. From high school through college, I gravitated to being the editor of the schools’ papers.

By the time I was 20, I was the editor of a community weekly paper, and at 23 was the managing editor of a morning daily. This was great experience on the news side of things. Then I moved into sportswriting at just the right time – covering those great San Diego Chargers of the ‘80s, the Padres in their World Series run and the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.

During the same time, my mother had been working hard to launch something new – a professional, easy-to-use and affordable advertising vehicle for her passion, the horse industry.

EQSOL: How would you define the magazine’s main mission?
WW:
 Our identity is pretty straight-forward, starting with the name – we help bring buyers and sellers together. We also help retail sales from local to national. We’re everything horses. Having content – both news and advertising – that is current and accurate, having technology that is relevant, having a sense of responsibility that goes with our being part of the fabric of the horse world, all of those missions we take seriously and we enjoy the challenge. But it comes back to bringing buyers and sellers together.

EQSOL: You are considered one of the most innovative and forward-thinking publishers in the industry. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve implemented during your time with the magazine?
WW:
 Different eras demand different solutions – it’s a moving target. In 1979, my mother founded the paper with the most profound innovation – she took the idea of the tack store bulletin board, packaged it into a digestible format, and was never late with an issue, twice a month. Until that point, reliable, current, free horse publications were not the norm.

From then to now, technology has made a difference. But technology is like wine – you can’t be indiscriminate in your selection of it, and you certainly can be intoxicated by it. Whether it’s the old-time fax with the roll paper or the internet and social media, innovation is all about the customer – and how will it bring buyers and sellers together.

EQSOL: Your favorite issue(s) over the years?
WW:
 The most recent one, always. Each issue, we put ourselves into it – not unlike a theatrical production. There’s pressure, there’s obstacles, there’s pride, there’s relief when we’re done. When the issue hits the newsstands, there’s a profound sense of accomplishment, and then it’s on to the next one. Our Horsetrader team is a remarkable group of dedicated pros – from sales to accounting to production and IT, and everywhere in between.

EQSOL: What do you see as the future of publishing?
WW:
 When times are flush, characters build publishing. When times are lean, publishing builds character. We’re in lean times, and there will be a culling of the herd, as always. That part is not different than any industry. What is different in the current period is that in addition to handling an economic storm, publishers must navigate through a technological challenge. That doesn’t mean to chase the bus with the latest internet craze. Part of the challenge is not technical at all; it’s a perception issue. Our advertisers remain with us for a simple reason – they see results. I think publications that have that core purpose – bringing buyers and sellers together – will thrive if they put the buyers and sellers first and understand them. It also helps to love the horse industry and publishing.

Thank you Warren for your time – we always enjoy a chance to catch up with you.

Conversations With Equestrians: Ricky Neal

By Jackie McFarland

Life’s path is paved with decisions. In the show jumping world, if a young rider truly aspires to go the highest levels, achieve the Olympic dream, the road is not only paved with tough choices, it is long and challenging. Gifted junior riders all reach that impasse where the dreamy junior years are drifting away and the rest of their lives are ahead of them. If college is in their future, how do horses fit in? If they want a future filled with international horses, world-class competition and having their names synonymous with those they now idolize, how do they make this happen?

There is no panacea. No surefire solution. Making a lot of choices along the way, maybe some wrong turns, possibly with a pace that seems too slow; sometimes the path may even may go an entirely different direction. To choose to be a rider that represents his/her country is not only a big decision but to get there takes perseverance, dedication, hard work and certainly some hard knocks.

But when a rider actually reaches those ultimate goals that define him or her – the opportunity to compete internationally, to be chosen to represent a country on a team, to find, bring along and win on not just one but several horses. Those moments make it all worthwhile. So Ricky Neal decided to put the schoolbooks aside for a year, pull up his bootstraps and jump in to the world of show jumping with the big boys and girls. He’s ready to emerge as an equestrian athlete.

EqSol: Your start in horses – a brief history…
RN:
 When I was 4 or 5 years old we had a babysitter, who happened to be a dressage rider, looking after my two older brothers and me. She asked my mom if she could take us out to the barn for a lesson. We went to the LA Equestrian Center. My brothers decided that horses were for sissies. But I was having fun on these big animals, so I started taking more lessons. A few years later I got my own pony and got further hooked from there.

I rode at the Flintridge Riding Club with Heidi Misrahy and started showing. And then with Susie Artes for a short time; she was great. I started with Meadow Grove in 2001 at the same time as Paris [Sellon]. We both had ponies back then.

Right after we moved to Meadow Grove we bought a children’s hunter and later that year we bought Randy Sherman’s old children’s jumper. That was six or seven years ago.

EqSol: Tell us about the horses you’ve had that have brought you to this point.
RN:
 The horses I have now are Cavalier Tommi Tank, Luke Skywalker and Larina.

We bought Tommi in February; he needed some solid flatwork and to get fit, but he has a lot of talent. He’s matured so much this year and the change over the last few months has been awesome. He showed at Spruce in the 1.45m and he’s my Young Rider horse. He’s eight this year and just ready to step into some bigger Grand Prix classes and serious money classes. I’m really excited about his potential.

Luke Skywalker was my Junior and Young Rider horse last year. He’s a winning 1.40m Jr/Am horse, scopey and talented for his size. We bought him two years ago and he’s been with me at the height of my Junior Jumper career. He’s been a big part of my evolvement. He’s going east with me and he’s for sale.

Larina is the love of my life. After giving me five solid years, taking me to the 1.40m level, she’s taking a well-deserved year off to have a baby. She’s bred to Uno de Laubry (Karl Cook’s chestnut stallion). Larina will be a great mother – strong-willed, solid, sound but kind with a big heart. This will be her first baby. She’ll come back afterwards and take care of someone else like she did me.

EqSol: And of course behind every aspiring star is not only talent and great trainers, but at least one dedicated parent. A little bit about your mom, Barbara.
RN:
 My mom would do anything for me. She’s made a lot of sacrifices to get me where I am today. I owe a lot to her. She’s always looking out for me – looking for ways for me to expand my options – she found EAP (USHJA’s Emerging Athletes Program).

All of my success through the years goes back to her, either directly by encouraging me or indirectly by financing the path. She’s willing to sell everything except her two cats to help me get what I need to achieve my goals.

EqSol: You participated in USHJA’s Emerging Athletes Program (EAP) in its inaugural year (2009) – tell us more about how you found out about it.
RN:
 Mom. She heard about it and encouraged me to apply. From there on I took the responsibility.

EqSol: Tell us about how the EAP process – a bit about each level. Creating the next generation of top riders – continuing the integrity of the top of the sport…
RN:
 Of all the applicants, 250 riders within the 12 zones are picked to participate in the Level I session. Melanie Smith Taylor was the clinician. Then Melanie and the committee pick a few riders from each Level I session to go on to the state level, also called Level II. Bernie Traurig worked with the Level II riders from our zone. Next Melanie rated all the riders who participated in Level II, no matter where we were from. Those top 12 were invited to Level 3, the National Level. Julie Winkel’s Maplewood Stables in Reno, NV hosted this session, including providing horses for all 12 riders.

Definitely the most intensive experience, I learned a ton at that last session. Over the three days, we worked with the clinician Peter Wylde, a vet, a farrier, an FEI Steward – a number of people with a variety of experiences in the horse industry.

On the third day we had a team competition in a Nations Cup format. Since we were on borrowed horses, the height and placing wasn’t as important as how we handled the pressure and worked as a team.

We were judged, essentially ‘watched’, the whole time. Carly Anthony and I may have been the most experienced competitors but we certainly weren’t above any of the group – there were some very knowledgeable horsemen, great riders in that group. I learned a lot from them.

The goal of EAP is to find one rider who could potentially represent the US in International Competition as part of a USEF Team. So many factors are considered – riding ability, competence and horsemanship are some. They want to know if you are willing to learn and better yourself as a horseman as well as help others. Another important part was media literacy. We each had to stand in front of everyone on night and give a thank you speech where we were judged on our public speaking.

I have to say that my trainers Dick Carvin and Susie Schroer make similar demands on me all the time. Essentially they are perfectionists, so I was well prepared for what the judges were looking for at EAP.

EqSol: And being one of the two winners – what has that led to?
RN:
 As winners we got to choose with whom we’d like to train for 30 days. I decided to split up the time between Mario Deslauriers and Mindy Bower.

I rode with Mario for two weeks at Spruce Meadows. He is a great rider, trainer, horseman – he’s just the whole package. Dick and Susie not only helped me coordinate my schedules with Mario, they helped prepare me for an advanced level program like Mario’s. After Spruce I decided to be a working student, so I am going to Ottawa and the Hamptons with Mario. After the Hamptons I will be back in California with Dick and Susie.

I plan to book two weeks in the fall with Mindy Bower. I’m looking forward to learning groundwork with her; she was great at the National Session.

EqSol: How do you think the experience has boosted your riding and career, and how it will it continue to?
RN:
 EAP has had a huge impact – it has really brought out the horseman in me. I went from a junior rider to the path of a professional rider. I honestly don’t think I would’ve been inspired to do so without EAP. The experience led me further down the path of becoming a professional horseman.

EAP allowed me access to Melanie Smith Taylor, Bernie Traurig and Peter Wylde to start. And the chance to work with Mario Delauriers and next Mindy Bower as a winner of USHJA’s Emerging Athletes Program put the whole experience in a different light.

EqSol: How/when did you know that you wanted to pursue ‘the big time’?
RN:
 I think the turning point was the decision to take a gap year next year and hold off on college. Take the year to work and spend time learning more about the business side of the horse world. That decision was and will be a turning point.

I’ve known about the possibility but I wasn’t certain until I now. Dick and Susie have been preparing me for this decision for several years. Starting with the summer I turned 15 when I went to Belgium and worked for Ludo Philippaerts in preparation for the ‘big time’ to see if this is what I really wanted to do. Seems the more I get involved in the sport the more I like it – it’s enveloped me bit by bit.

I still have a lot to learn. I still have to get out into the real horse world and see how it fits. That’s what I plan to get a taste of during this next year. I’m going to jump in with both feet and see how it feels.

EqSol: Your future – competing, school, horses, etc?
RN:
 I’m aiming for winter in Wellington. Then I will make a plan from there.

I’ll start at Wesleyan (Middletown, CT) in the fall of 2011. Since I deferred I have to submit an essay on what I’ve been doing this year. Once I get to school I’ll keep riding but not certain of the plan. There are tons of barns close Wesleyan. We will figure that out as it gets closer; lots to do before then.

It’s always a pleasure to talk with you, Ricky – and we congratulate you on emerging as an athlete!

Conversations With Equestrians: Francisco Pasquel

By Jackie McFarland

Francisco Pasquel and Equ Lifestyle Magazine
During the summer season we hear quite a few Spanish names, as a large group of riders from Mexico join us to compete at the Blenheim shows and enjoy all that southern California has to offer, from dining to shopping to the sunny weather (summer is rainy season back in Mexico). The show season in Mexico runs from January through May and finishes with shows during the fall in October and November. Not quite a decade ago, equestrian Francisco Pasquel and his partner Alvaro Escobar started the Sports Management Group (SMG), which now produces twenty of these competitions during the year at several different locations.

Garnering some of the country’s best and most elite sponsors for these shows, Pasquel and Escobar thought to complete their sponsor package they would create a unique print piece for them to participate in. So just a few years ago, Equ Lifestyle Magazine Mexico was born.

Wildly successful and well-received in Mexico, the stylish publication is now expanding to the US market, starting right here on the west coast. The August/September issue is gorgeous. Take a look and you will see, the imagery within speaks louder and more eloquently than these words.

That said we took a moment to speak with Francisco Pasquel about Equ, SMG and horses.

EqSol: Where are you from?
FP:
 I’m from Mexico City – lived there all my life.

EqSol: And your equestrian background?
FP:
 I’ve been riding since I was four years old. My father rode. I have six brothers, I am the second oldest. My older brother, Patricio, and I ride. He competed in Wellington and Calgary this year, but didn’t come to California.

I have represented Mexico in the Young Riders Championships. I won both gold and bronze in the Central American Games four years ago in Bogota. And I hope to represent Mexico in the Pan American Games next year.

EqSol: Your horses?
FP:
 I have a 9 year old, Calvada Z, competing at the Grand Prix level and a 6 year old, Montejo, who is going really well.

EqSol: How about your show management background?
FP:
 Previous to SMG there were shows in Monterrey and Jalapa. Nine years ago we decided to expand that a bit.

SMG is really similar to Blenheim, we run equestrian events in Mexico, up to twenty a year. Also similar to Blenheim we run smaller shows, like your County level, as well as the best shows of the year, some of them are CSI**.

Several of our shows have grown quite a lot over the years. We have one in Valle de Bravo, which is a resort area around a lake, and in six years it’s grown from 80 to 600 stalls. We have a competition every year called the Nations Tour Team. There are twelve teams and each one is sponsored – BMW, Land Rover, Grey Goose, Mercedes Benz, Banco Norte, etc. – and teams compete in five shows throughout the year. Then we have the finals at the biggest arena in Latin America, the Estado Mayor Presidencial. Plus we have a fabulous party.

EqSol: So how did you get into publishing?
FP:
 Why did we do it? Well, because it didn’t exist. We wanted to fill a gap that we felt wasn’t being served. So we developed a lifestyle publication with an equestrian component. Do you know the magazine, Robb Report? We fill a similar niche.

It’s really taken off. We are expanding to 8 issues with two specialty issues, one focused on travel and the other on ‘The Best of the Best’.

EqSol: Tell us a little more about the start of Equ.
FP:
 We started just three years ago. We now publish 10,000 copies in Mexico that are sent to our exhibitor database and distributed at horse shows, golf events and exclusive bank and airport lounges throughout Mexico.

It really works to expand the reach of the brands for this audience. We bring the brands and the equestrian world to the distinguished reader, whether or not they ride.

EqSol: And now the US market – what’s your plan?
FP:
 We are planning on three bi-monthly issues as a start. We’ve hired two great sales people and plan to hire a third for the corporate aspect. We also are looking into publishing an east coast edition. That is in the works.

EqSol: Will the issues from Mexico be similar to those in the US?
FP:
 They are similar. In Mexico the publication is geared more towards men. 90% of equestrians in Mexico are male. In the US there will be more of a female focus than in Mexico, since that statistic is different in the states.

EqSol: Not only do you publish a gorgeous magazine, but you’ve embraced social media – all the news, all the time…
FP:
 We have an Internet group in Mexico where two people post YouTube videos and handle all the news for Facebook and Twitter. We have almost 9,000 followers!

  Thank you Francisco for your time and for having the impetus to bring Equ Lifestyle Magazine to the US. As we savor this issue, we look forward to the next!

Conversations With Equestrians: Guy Thomas

By Jackie McFarland

West Coast Rider Guy Thomas
An unforgettable equestrian event has come to Kentucky. Although many riders will be otherwise engaged as the show world continues with Capital Challenge and numerous other competitions, we will all have some way to watch the action at the Alltech World Equestrian Games. Whether following through friends, TV coverage, web channels, e-news or with your own eyes in Lexington, multitudes of horse aficionados will be tuning in.

Northern California rider Guy Thomas is here. He has earned the honor of competing on a team, representing New Zealand. He will also be riding a homebred horse, Peterbilt, who he has developed from inception, along with his parents Butch and Lu Thomas. We had a chance to sit down with the man from Northern California with New Zealand roots and I have to say, he’s quite a guy.

EqSol: Your parents are both in the business so you rode from an early age. Tell us a bit about the early years.
GT:
 I started when I was put front of the saddle with mom and dad at age two or even younger. I rode for a couple of years without a saddle – I wore chaps and paddock boots and a jockey’s helmet with a pretty disgusting hat cover that was green with orange polka dots and a bareback pad. I didn’t like any of the ‘gear’, so rode bareback everywhere I went. I always was very fortunate that mom and dad had me on great ponies and horses.

I competed a couple of times that way. I rode in this welsh pony class, there were three of us – one kid stopped and one kid fell off and I was good but didn’t have a saddle and I didn’t get a ribbon. Dad said I picked up my grooming box and claimed that I didn’t want to ride anymore.

Sometime later someone convinced me to try a saddle and I don’t think I could ride bareback these days! [laugh]

EqSol: Your junior years once you were in the saddle?
GT:
 I rode in the Pony Hunters and Junior Hunters. I also competed in the Onondarka Medal nine times and was 2nd all nine times. Second didn’t qualify you back then, so that was it from my equitation career.

I remember riding in the Pony Jumpers at Spruce. I went in the Pony Grand Prix at Spruce on the International Field when I was 11 or 12, I don’t think they have that class anymore. That year they used the built-in liverpool as the open water for the ponies. I thought it looked like the Pacific Ocean and I was terrified. Luckily I had a great pony from New Zealand that I did everything up to the Juniors on – Caruba Gold – and we won.

EqSol: And years later deciding to turn pro…
GT: 
I showed in the amateurs for a year or two and then started running my parents barn in Woodside – training, riding, whatever it entailed. For me it was either turn pro in this sport or in rodeo. I’ve always been a rodeo freak. But after considering it, riding a bucking horse or bull didn’t look that appealing. I would end up with far more broken bones than paychecks. I rode steers one year in New Zealand for a few weeks and I figured out that the only way to get off was to fall off; not fun.

EqSol: Speaking of paychecks, how about your Triple Crown win?
*A series of shows in Northern California offered a $70,000 bonus to any horse and rider combination who could win all three Grand Prix events consecutively
GT: It was awesome. To have that kind of money available for the winning at all is quite impressive. Rudy Leone and Adrian Ward have done an am amazing thing for grand prix riders everywhere, but especially for Northern California.

Last year I won the second two legs. So this year I definitely had a plan. When we got to the first class I did everything in my power to win because then I had a chance. And Peterbilt was so consistent. Three grand prix classes in the same field, same jumps, he was just amazing. Each class was 1.45-1.50m; they were really good courses, not soft.

Six or seven were clean in the first prix, I was the only clear ride in the second one and in the final class there were seven clean. I had four rides in that class and Peterbilt was the last of my rides. I had rails on the other three, and when I was on Peterbilt I could feel my hands gripping on to the reins a bit tighter halfway around the course. I had to tell myself, ‘Hey, it’s just another bunch of sticks – you can’t over think it.’

Luckily I was last to go in the jump off. There were some really good combos like [Peter] Breakwell on Lucas, Duncan [McFarlane] on Mr. Whoopy, Helen [McNaught] on Caballo – plenty of loaded guns in the field. Note that Breakwell is a fantastic rider, he’s sneaky fast. I could tell he was quick, but his time was even faster than it looked. Watching him I knew I could nip at his heels, and Peterbilt was ready. I didn’t know I could actually beat him by two seconds…

I donated $20,000 back to the horse show organizing committee to support what they’ve done for the riders. I was the first one to ever win it and I want others to have that chance, or even for me to have that chance again! If I could help make that happen, I was happy to do it.

EqSol: Some of the names you mention above are from New Zealand. Tell us more about your parents and the business they’ve built here in the US.
GT:
 Over the years, several kiwis came over to work for my parents and went out on their own – Duncan McFarlane, Peter Breakwell and Rachel Yorke (now Fields).

My parents, Butch & Lu Thomas, head the whole organization. When not at shows, they spend most of their time at our private barn in Burson, CA. We now own over ninety acres – it started nineteen years ago with twenty acres and slowly we’ve purchased more property. We keep a mix of my show horses, dad’s racehorses, our young horses and our bucking bulls there. That’s where my show horses go to relax.

That’s also where we breed and raise the babies. We’ve been dabbling in breeding for quite some time but here in the last couple of years with Karl Cook’s stallions and Mom’s stallion we’ve developed some nice young stock. Dad handles all the breeding, he enjoys it and has a great eye.

All the client horses are at our barn at the Woodside Horse Park. We’ve been there three years now – it’s a great facility with tons of open space and plenty of rings. When we aren’t on the road, Butch and Lu come over on Saturday and teach a big group lesson.

EqSol: Bucking bulls?
GT:
 Bulls are my hobby. Dad has the racehorses and breeding, so I decided since I love rodeo that I was going have bucking bulls. This is the third year I’ve been involved with the ABBI (American Bucking Bull, Inc – abbinow.com). It’s not lucrative yet – we now have twelve bulls between ages of 2-4. I don’t like bucking the two year olds, they can get hurt. I have two right now, one could be an absolute superstar – he’s electric. The other one is good but he can go too hard, too fast and then falls down, but he’s only two. To train them you use a dummy box with a remote. The box sits on their back. When you practice if they buck like you want, you hit the button and the gear falls off. It’s a reward system.

I just had four of the older ones go to a futurity. I would like to see them win and go to the PBR (Professional Bull Riders, Inc. – pbrnow.com). The prize money is pretty good if you win the Futurity Finals – the last two years the owners of the winning bull have taken home a check for $250,000. Dad has a fabulous four-year-old bull, Ghostrider. In 10 times out he’s only been ridden once, the other nine times he bucked the cowboy off in under two seconds.

EqSol: Let’s talk WEG…
GT:
 The WEG was part of the plan to this year. I earned my certificate of capability on Carino and Peterbilt last year at Spruce. Once it was more of a realistic option we tried to pick and choose the classes what would best suit to get us ready for something like the level of the WEG.

The biggest class we did was the Queen Elizabeth Cup this year at Spruce. Peterbilt felt great. I caused the rail in the first round; I was too long at one oxer and had the back rail. We could’ve been in the jump-off with Hickstead and Lamaze but ended up 7th. The nice thing with Peterbilt right now is that as the jumps get bigger and spookier, he rises to the occasion.

I do feel ready. I’m excited nervous, but not so much worried nervous. You never know what can happen at a competition like this. If the cards fall right maybe I can scare a lot of people.

It’s a big field trip – my girlfriend Kristin and lots of family are all heading to Kentucky.

Thank you Guy – from babies to bulls, it was an interesting interview. We wish the best of luck to the WEG New Zealand Team: Guy Thomas / Peterbilt, Samantha McIntosh / Loxley, Katie McVean / Delphi (half-sister to Peterbilt) and Maurice Beatson / Apollo.