Need help finding your favorite H&R article from 2012? This complete list of 2012 articles should help.

Al Dunning’s How’s My Riding?
"Sitting Pretty,” Practice Pen, Jan., pg. 32
“Hard-Working Pair,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 32
“Trail-Course Prep,” Practice Pen, March, pg. 32
“Al Says, ‘Relax’” Practice Pen, May, pg. 46
“Small-Fry Horsemanship,” Practice Pen, June, pg. 28
“Rail Work,” Practice Pen, July, pg. 38
“Fence Work,” Practice Pen, Sept., pg. 40
“Reining Prep,” Practice Pen, Oct., pg. 40
“Schooling Session,” Practice Pen, Nov., pg. 34
"Sit Up in the Saddle," Practice Pen, Dec., pg. 34

Barns, Property Maintenance
“Melt Ice Safely,” Your Horse, Your Life, Jan., pg. 18
Stable Gear: “Stall Fronts,” Jan., pg. 64
“Savvy Storage,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 20
“Spring-Clean Your Barn,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 20
“Messy Job Made Easy,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 20
Special Advertising Section: “Barn & Ranch Makeover,” March, pg. 57
Stable Gear: “Barn Carts and Caddies,” April, pg. 78
“Nip It in the Mud,” May, pg. 80
“How to Handle a Hay Shortage,” June, pg. 56
“Three-Pronged Fly Control,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 30
“Small Size, Big Benefits,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 28
“Tack Theft—Now What?” July, pg. 68
Stable Gear: “Barn Fly Control,” July, pg. 78
“Winter-Prep Steps to Take Now,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 26
“Easier Hay Soaking,” Your Horse, Your Life, Oct., pg. 24
Stable Gear: “Winter Water Options,” Oct., pg. 70
“While You Wait,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 20

Behavior
“Sore Back; Foal Eats Manure,” Whole Horse Q&A, March, pg. 14
“Hematoma; Saddling Woes,” Whole Horse Q&A, April, pg. 14
“Rearing to Go—In A Bad Way,” Problem Solvers, June, pg. 88
“Club Foot; Sometimes Spooky,” Whole Horse Q&A, July, pg. 20
“Trailering Fears; Bowed Tendon,” Whole Horse Q&A, Aug., pg. 12
“Pasture Predator?” Your Horse, Your Life, Aug., pg. 19
“Clinician On Call,” Aug., pg. 43
“Keeping Kelly,” Aug., pg. 62
“Trailering Fears; Bowed Tendon,” Whole Horse Q&A, Aug., pg. 12
“Popped Splint; Trail Fears,” Whole Horse Q&A, Sept., pg. 14
“Barn Sour; Shoe Boil,” Whole Horse Q&A, Oct., pg. 15
“Eye Discharge; Pulling Back,” Whole Horse Q&A, Nov., pg. 12

Bob Avila’s Winning Insights
“Breeding Time Machine,” Practice Pen, Jan., pg. 30
“How Not to Lose,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 30
“Don’t Skip the Basics,” Practice Pen, March, pg. 30
“Tire Kickers,” Practice Pen, April, pg. 33
“Industry Update,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 38
“Horse Divorce,” Practice Pen, June, pg. 45
“What You Need to Succeed,” Practice Pen, July, pg. 36
“Know When to Quit,” Practice Pen, Aug., pg. 32
“Neck-Reining: Part 1: Introduce the Concept,” Practice Pen, Sept., pg. 34
“Neck-Reining: Part 2: Introduce the Curb Bit,” Practice Pen, Oct., pg. 32
“Neck-Reining: Part 3: The Romal Advantage,” Practice Pen, Nov., pg. 28
"Rules of Engagement," Practice Pen, Dec. pg. 26

Breed, Show Associations
“Did You Know? Surprising Facts About 10 Breeds,” Jan., pg. 50
“Once More, for the Memories,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
“New National AQHA Championship for YOU!” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
“Important USEF Drug-Rule Changes,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
Gallop Poll: “If Wishes Were Reiners,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
Have You Tried: “Entry-Level Reining,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 38
“New Show Options for All Breeds,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 18
“Happy Birthday, APHA!” Your Horse, Your Life, April, pg. 18
“PtHA, AQHA Innovations,” Your Horse, Your Life, May, pg. 20
“Inudstry Update,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 38
Have You Tried: “Saddle-Log Programs,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 48
“Save Big at AQHA Novice Championships,” Your Horse, Your Life, pg. 24
“Painted ‘n Pretty,” Your Horse, Your Life, pg. 24
“Genetic Test for Appaloosas Now Available,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 26
“Arabians Slide to Paychecks,” Your Horse, Your Life, July, pg. 24
“AQHA Video Delux,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 20
“Find a Trainer, Help a Youth,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 20
“Philanthropy at Pinto World,” Your Horse, Your Life, Oct., pg. 22
“Numbers Up at Quarter Horse Shows,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 18
“ACTHA Rides Benefit Service Members,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 18
"Not Too Common: Grullas," Your Horse, Your Life, Dec., pg. 16

Q: My 10-year-old all-around gelding has started trying to nip at my hand when we set up for inspection, as well as when we stand in the lineup during showmanship. He’s really good at showmanship, other than this new quirk. How can I break the habit?
—Jordan Meyer, North Carolina

A: This is a pretty big fault in showmanship classes. It’s a learned behavior—somehow, your horse has been made to feel that crowding your space and even nipping at your hand is OK. It’s certainly not, and can even become a safety issue for you as a handler. His nipping behavior can then lead to resistance when leading and less responsiveness to your cues. Both are also faults in showmanship, and just bad manners for general handling.

Incorrect

Photo by John Brasseaux

It’s imperative that you instill respect in your horse for all aspects of handling, whether for showmanship or everyday groundwork. Part of that respect is the horse staying in his own space. It’s also necessary to let the horse know that he can’t control you by invading your space or nipping at your hand.

I’ve heard people suggest poking at the horse’s muzzle when he tries to nibble, but I don’t recommend that. Jabbing at your horse’s face only serves to make the problem worse. You’re getting in his space when you poke at him, when what you really need is for him to get out of your space. Also, he’s likely to jump back when you poke his muzzle, so it’s not a tactic you could use at a show without disturbing the horses on either side of you in a lineup.

Correct

Photo by John Brasseaux

Start by checking to see if your lead shank is so short, that your horse doesn’t have any choice but to get in your space.  Also, never hold the lead shank by the chain.

With your hand position in check, use the following steps to remedy your horse’s unwanted behavior.

When your horse gets in your space, use a long, slow pushing motion to move him back into his own “bubble” and out of yours. Using this less-aggressive approach, as opposed to poking at his muzzle or jerking the chain, means your horse won’t develop a jumpy mindset when you get into his space. Once his head is back in his own space, get yourself back into proper showmanship position. Repeat the pushing motion every time he gets in your space, no matter if he nips at your hand or not.

Use a long, slow pushing motion to move our horse out of your space and back into his own.

Photo by John Brasseaux

If your horse only exhibits this behavior in the show pen, plan regular mock showmanship classes at your barn. It’s likely that your barnmates also have horses that cheat at something or have developed bad show-pen habits, so everyone will benefit from the faux class. Get all the “exhibitors” lined up, like you would in a class, and ask someone to act as “judge.” Put your horse in the scenario he experiences in a show class, so that you’re setting him up for the chance to act out, all the way from inspection by the judge to the entire class being lined up for placing. The only difference in the mock show is that points and prizes aren’t on the line, and you can correct his space-invading behavior without true penalty. If you go to a real competition and your horse acts out, don’t hesitate to correct him—consistent correction is key. Continue to show him that he can’t get away with this behavior in any situation. Don’t ignore his nipping in hopes of winning a ribbon. By doing so, you’d reinforce his belief that the rules are different when he’s in the show pen.

After moving his head away, go back to proper showmanship position.

Photo by John Brasseaux

One final word about mouthiness: This behavior can develop from feeding treats. It’s easy to see why, if you hand- feed your horse treats on a regular basis, he’d search your hands—and nip—for treats. If you must feed treats to your horse, try doing so from a bucket, so he doesn’t associate them with your hands.

Sara Simons, Aubrey, Texas. A past APHA Leading Exhibitor and winner of more than 30 world titles, Simons trains horses and coaches youth and amateur riders from Simons Show Horses, which she owns with her mother, Andrea, and sister, Jana. She’s an approved judge for APHA, NRHA, and NSBA.

Be prepared for your first show with these extra tips from our Facebook fans and top trainers.

Legend:
• = Facebook fan; ◊ = Trainer/judge

• Watch a similar show before you enter, and ask for assistance, if need be. If you’re prepared, it’s more enjoyable for you and your horse, your family and helpers, the show secretary, and everyone else.
-Bobbi Finarty

• Make sure you know where things are packed; band the night before you put on the sleezy; and make sure your hat and boots are clean and ready to go.
-Kathy Good

• Pack everything in the trailer the day before. That way, the only thing you have to do before you leave is wash your horse.
-Sharon Yotka Laskowski

• Bring along extra feed for your horse and extra clothes for yourself------you never know how the weather could change.
-Helena Baker

◊ Before your show, go to Lowe’s or the Home Depot and find a paint swatch that matches your horse’s color. Take it into the Estee Lauder counter at the mall and ask the employees what colors look good with the swatch. Base your shirt’s coloring off their recommendations. Top it off with neutral or muted-color pants, chaps, and hat.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• ‘Go with what you know.’ If you practice something one way and see it differently at the show, don’t change your whole program in five minutes.
-Irene Davis

• Have a class schedule in your room, tack room, and trailer, and highlight the classes you’ve entered.
-Glenna Bartlett

• Read the rulebook ahead of time and make sure that your equipment and attire are in accordance with those rules.
-Kaye Helton-Anderson

◊ Remember, it’s not about the best horse and rider; it’s your presentation, too.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Get plenty of rest for you and your horse the day and night before.
-Helena Baker

• Go to bed early and never forget to have fun!
-Mariève Paquin

• Bring lots of fly spray for your horse and sunscreen for yourself.
-Brandy Kirwan McIntosh

• Try to learn something from your fellow competitors.
-Jennifer Gomez

◊ A bottle of green spot remover and a rag is a must for every horseshow kit.
-Kelly McDowall, Colorado

• Always go to the restroom before entering a large showmanship class!
-Ken Duft

◊ Don’t get freaked out about the fact that you’re freaking out. Find something that calms you and settles your mind and do it at the show.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Practice at home, acclimate your horse to crowds, other horses, and lots of noise before the show.
-Tanya Rentz

• Remember, you’re only out there to do your best. Some day, your best will be <i>the best</i>; that’s how you win. By not worrying about your competitors, you can focus on yourself!
-Katie Schmidt

• It’s called a warm-up pen for a reason: Train at home. Warm your horse up and see what you have. It’s likely less than you have at home, so learn to show that.
-Heather McLevin

◊ Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you see someone at the show who looks like they’ve done it before and if you need help, ask them. We all work very hard at the show, but almost every last one of us is willing to help someone who’s new.
-Kelly McDowall, Colorado

• Pack a cooler with water and Gatorade, plus some nutritious snacks to keep your energy level up.
-Catherine Gallant

◊ Consider giving your horse an immune booster injection before you haul him------particularly if it’s a long haul. It’ll help keep him from getting sick on the road.
-Tommy Garland

• Know your pattern: write it, say it out loud, and walk it.
-Roxanne Peters

◊ If your horse isn’t used to traveling, get him out. Trailer him to the local Dairy Queen and have a sundae or take him to the county fairgrounds. Affirm to him that it’s OK, and create a confident attitude.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Even if you’re scared or intimidated in the arena, stand, sit, or ride as though you have the best horse in the world. Every class and show is a learning experience.
-Sharie Belew

• If you get nervous, sing to your horse. I still find myself singing “Amarillo By Morning;” it helps!
-Kassie Fay Tabor Cumbee

•Try not to make major clothing changes unless the classes are well spaced. Also, wear a tank top under jackets if you have back-to-back classes. That way, you can change jackets ringside.
-Laura Calentine

• Be a defensive driver. Don’t be so in ‘the zone’ that you forget about the traffic around you in the pen!
-Tina Krichbaum

Sad tales of neglected and abandoned horses seem to be everywhere---in the news, on Facebook, on flyers at your local feed store. Photos of thin horses with drooping ears and dull eyes tug at your heartstrings. You want to help, but it can be hard to know what to do.

I’ve been involved in the effort to help horses in need for more than 14 years, and I am currently executive director of Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society in College Station, Texas. When I started out, few equine rescues existed in the United States, but today there are hundreds across the country. Most are run by good people doing necessary work, but the rapid growth of the rescue industry has far outpaced regulations to govern operations, and we don’t yet have a formal trade association to provide direction and guidelines.

As a result, every so often reports appear about neglected horses discovered at “rescues” run by animal hoarders or by well-intentioned people who found themselves in over their heads. Even worse are the “rescuers” who are simply defrauding their donors. Although these people are the exceptions, their actions give rise to many misconceptions about equine rescues that may stop people from volunteering, donating money or even adopting a horse in need. Because good rescues provide vital services to their communities and the horse industry, it is time to debunk the most common myths and understand the truths behind them.

Myth #1: All rescues are the same
Reality: Each rescue is a unique organization with its own policies and procedures, fundraisers and management staff.

I hear this myth more than any other: When I ask for a donation, someone will tell me they already gave to us---at a fundraiser for a different rescue, or someone who wants to adopt a horse will tell us they have already been approved because they applied at a different organization. I’ve even been told that “you guys are all just part of one big organization.” This misconception becomes damaging anytime the authorities seize animals from a bad rescue for poor care or when adopters believe that a rescue treated them unfairly or misrepresented a horse they took home. Those people might then avoid all rescues under the mistaken belief that we are all the same.

Here are some ways in which rescues differ:

• Private versus 501(c)(3). If a nonprofit organization qualifies for 501(c)(3) designation from the Internal Revenue Service, it doesn’t pay income tax on the money it raises and your donations to it may be tax-deductible. 501(c)(3) organizations must have a board of directors and make their financial information available to the public.

Private rescues are often run by a single person or a very small group of people rather than a board of directors. Donations to these groups are not tax-deductible, and they’re not required to make their records public. They are required to pay income taxes on any money they receive from fundraisers, adoptions, etc.

• Sanctuaries versus rehoming organizations. Sanctuaries provide lifelong homes to horses in need; they do not offer any for adoption. This means that sanctuaries can help only a limited number of horses: Once a sanctuary is full, it must wait until a horse dies before bringing in another.

Rehoming organizations do place their horses with adopters, but many rescues of this type also offer a limited number of sanctuary spots to horses they deem unadoptable for physical or behavioral reasons.

• Intake methods. Horses can come to rescues from auctions, racetracks, owner donations or law enforcement impoundments in cases of abuse or neglect. Some rescues focus only on horses coming through one route---racetracks, for example---but many take in those from a variety of backgrounds.

Myth #2: My tax dollars support rescues, so they don’t need any more from me
Reality: Rescues do not receive local, state or federal funding.

The only exception might be when a city or county contracts with a rescue for assistance in handling neglect cases and stray horses, but most often rescues perform these services at no cost to their local communities. When owners are found guilty of neglect, the judge may order them to pay restitution to the organization for expenses incurred while assisting law enforcement and rehabilitating the horse or horses, but rescues rarely receive the funds they’re awarded.

Because we don’t receive government support, rescues must raise the funds necessary to care for their horses through adoption fees, fundraising events and direct-mail solicitations. Before you throw out the next invitation to a fundraiser or the letter asking for a donation, please remember that the rescue sending it doesn’t see a penny of your tax dollars and needs help for the horses in its care.

Myth #3: Rescues get services and items for free, so their expenses are minimal
Reality: Although many rescues receive some discounted services and donated items, no veterinarian or farrier is always able to work for free or even discount his or her services. And many expenses can’t be discounted or donated.

For example, here are some of the 2011 expenses for the organization I run: $5,178 for insurance, $1,968 for postage, $33,061 for veterinary care, $1,900 for burial expenses for deceased horses, $10,830 for gas or mileage reimbursements for trailering horses, $6,875 for training horses, $8,386 for advertising and $2,306 for mileage
reimbursement for volunteers.

Myth #4: Everyone who works at a rescue is on salary
Reality: Some rescues have paid staff, but many do not.

The majority of rescues rely solely on volunteers. The oldest and most established rescues have paid staff, but even they rely heavily on volunteers to get everything done.

This means that someone is probably not available immediately to answer your calls or e-mails, and you may have to wait a few days for a reply. It also means that volunteers are often performing their rescue job after work or on the weekends and aren’t available during weekdays.

Myth #5: Rescues never enforce their contracts, so I can do what I want with my adopted horse
Reality: The purpose of the adoption contract is to ensure that the horses are placed in good homes. Most rescues follow up on their contracts. Rescue personnel perform follow-up visits not only to see that the horses are cared for, but also to make sure that the adoptive owners are happy with the arrangement. If someone violates the terms of an adoption contract, he or she may lose the horse and be liable to the rescue for the cost of enforcing that contract.

Myth #6: Rescues are happy to take in my old/lame/unsuitable horse
Reality: Most rescues can’t take in owner-donated retirees.

Some people want to use rescues as free retirement centers for horses they no longer need while still directing their care and visiting them. Most rescues do not take owner-donated horses, and those that do often have little room or resources for animals with serious medical needs or behavior problems. When a rescue does take in a donated horse, the animal is signed over to the organization and the owner waives all rights, including the ability to visit.

In general, rescues help neglected horses, those whose owners can no longer care for them, and others in serious need. They are not there to take in horses whose owners simply have no further use for them.

Myth #7: Every horse at a rescue is kept until he dies of natural causes
Reality: Rescues have limited funds and must often euthanatize horses.

While answering the phones and e-mails for my rescue, I’ve often spoken with people who want us to take in their older, ill or injured horse. Often a veterinarian has suggested that they euthanatize the horse, but they don’t want to. They believe that the best solution is to turn the horse over to a rescue, which will keep him healthy and happy until he dies of old age. However, rescues don’t have unlimited funds, and we sometimes must euthanatize a horse because we can’t spend thousands of dollars to treat an illness or injury.

Donating a horse who needs to be put down is unkind. Not only is he ill or in pain, he is then also uprooted from his home and taken to an unfamiliar place full of strange people and horses. Many scared or nervous horses may never settle in and relax before their life ends, surrounded by strangers. It is also unkind to put rescue personnel into that position. We care for our horses as if they are our own, and every decision to end a life is emotionally draining.

One story remains fresh in my mind. Years ago, our organization took in any horse whose owner didn’t want him, and we often received those who should never have been put on a trailer: Moon was one such horse.

Moon developed laminitis, and her owners managed her for several weeks before donating her to us. I followed the care instructions they gave me, but the mare worsened. When my veterinarian arrived to examine Moon, she quickly recommended euthanasia. I knew she was right, but I still cried. I cared about Moon and had hoped for a pain-free future for her. We laid her to rest, and I avoided the barn for two days.

Several months later, Moon’s former owner arrived at my barn demanding to see the horse. When I told her we’d put Moon down, her reply was, “Oh, I knew she needed to be euthanized. But I didn’t have the heart to do it, so I brought her to you!” Years later, I still ache for the horse I couldn’t help and feel anger toward the owner who forced me to make the decision she wouldn’t face.

If your horse needs to be put down, please, take care of him at home, in comfortable surroundings. Don’t pass that decision on to another person who has had to make that call far too often.

Myth #8: Rescue horses are used up or worthless
Reality: Rescues have all kinds of horses. Some aren’t sound for riding, but many can do anything any other horse can do.

Often, when I suggest that someone consider adopting their next horse instead of buying or breeding, I’m told, “I don’t want to adopt a horse---they’re not good for anything!” The person may go on to tell me she once saw a rescue horse who was lame or blind or crazy. And then I’ll hear, “Besides, if no one else wants them, why should I?”

Just because a horse is unwanted or neglected doesn’t make him worthless. Many may be sound, well-bred animals who landed in our care after their owners fell on hard times. We have many horses who are young, sound and can be trained for anything.

Storm’s story illustrates that point. The courts placed Storm with Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society after removing him from negligent owners. He was emaciated when he arrived, but fortunately, Storm recovered quickly.

After he was trained to ride, he was adopted by a teenage girl who met him and fell in love. And that was the beginning of an awesome career for Storm. He and his rider joined a 4-H drill team, and their wins have included a first place at their district competition. They’re also showing in English pleasure, Western pleasure and sidesaddle in open shows, and Storm has made it to the state semi-finals in team penning. He helps athletes who compete in Special Olympics horse shows through the S.H.A.R.E. (Special Horses and Riders Excelling) organization, and he took his rider to the regional and chapter Special Olympics shows in Western equitation, English equitation, trail, barrels and showmanship.

And yet Storm is just one of thousands of rescue horses who are com-peting, trail riding and working across the country. So the next time you are looking for a new horse, don’t overlook your local rescue. You may find a diamond in the rough who can become your next champion and companion.

Myth #9: Donating money or fostering or adopting horses are the only ways I can help
Reality: Rescues need volunteers in many areas.

Running a rescue takes an enormous amount of work, and since most rely heavily on volunteers, there’s likely to be a job for you, no
matter what your skills. Here are just a few possibilities:

• Trailering. If you have a safe trailer and an appropriate tow vehicle, you may be able to help with picking up horses, taking them to veterinary clinics and transporting them to their foster homes.

• Visiting foster or adoptive homes. Most rescues will inspect potential homes before allowing their horses to go to them, and they may also schedule follow-up visits later. This is an easy job that is a good fit for someone with a camera who enjoys meeting other horsepeople.

• Investigating neglect complaints. The rescue may offer neglect/abuse- investigation training classes, or they may need experienced horsemen and horsewomen who can accompany local law enforcement out on calls.

• Doing routine horse care. Reliable, experienced horsepeople may be needed to do daily chores, such as feeding, cleaning pens or stalls, grooming, or showing horses to prospective adopters.

• Training. Many horses arrive with little or no training, so rescues appreciate help from professional trainers and experienced horsepeople who can help prepare them for adoption.

• Fundraising. Bringing in the money necessary to keep a rescue going is a nonstop concern. Volunteers are always needed to organize and participate in fundraising.

• Marketing, public relations, accounting, writing and more. In many ways running a rescue is like operating a business, and all the same professional skills are needed. If you have a skill you would like to use to help horses, a rescue can help you put your experience to work---and it looks good on a resume, too.

Whether you are looking for a new horse, have some time to give, or can donate money or equipment, I hope you’ll consider visiting a rescue and helping out. It really does take the horse community working together to improve the lives of the horses who need us.

About the author: Jennifer Williams, PhD, is the founder and president of Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society located in College Station, Texas, and the author of the book How to Start and Run a Rescue. Williams received her bachelor of science in psychology and minor in equine science from Truman State University, formerly known as Northeast Missouri State University. Later Williams earned her master’s and doctorate in animal science from Texas A&M, where she focused her studies on equine behavior, learning and welfare.

In the July 2012 issue, we gave you an update on Jacks Vaquero, aka "Cowboy." The senior gelding is now teaching 4-year-old TJ Hammond of Idaho to ride. We first introduced our readers to Cowboy in the April 2006 issue. Review that article below.

A tiny girl sits atop a nondescript brown gelding. They’re waiting to compete in a barrel-racing class for riders 5 and under at the Washington State Junior Rodeo Finals in October of 2005. The girl’s tawny hair is tucked neatly under a straw hat; her babyish face is doll-like. Her legs reach only halfway down the horse’s sides.

The gelding begins to prance slightly, his neck bowed obediently to his rider’s hand. The girl’s mother leads the pair down the alleyway and turns them loose in the arena, then stands aside, holding her breath.

The girl leans forward and the gelding sprints toward the first barrel. As he nears it, the girl sinks into the saddle and the horse wraps himself around the metal can, digging in with his hindquarters and bending through his middle. He finishes the turn and springs toward the second barrel.

“This isn’t the first time this horse has done this,” drawls the announcer. Just short of the second barrel, the gelding switches leads, and again the girl sinks into the saddle. The pair spin around the second can, perfectly synchronized, and leap toward the third. One more tight, neat turn, and they’re headed for home. The girl stands in her stirrups and shoots her rein hand forward, urging her gelding on with everything she’s got. The horse responds with a surge, tripping the electric eye at a full gallop.

Their time makes them the only pair in their age group to break the “teens”; they win first place. The girl smiles happily and claps her horse’s neck.

The mother smiles too, blinking back tears. Twenty years ago, she was the little brown-haired girl on this same gelding, racing around barrels, winning prizes. To see her daughter now, running and winning on this cherished, aged horse, brings the most exquisite flush of emotions.

But—we’re getting ahead of the story. It begins two decades earlier, in Lewiston, Idaho. It’s the tale of Jacks Vaquero, also known as Cowboy, the plain little Quarter Horse with the great big heart.

Though a rodeo star, Cowboy also excelled in other disciplines. here he stands perfectly for Jami, then 9, at a Lewiston 4-H show in 1986.

Photo by Johnny Rynearson

Sensible Colt
It was July 2, 1981. Jami Yochum (the mother in our opening vignette) was only 4 years old, but she remembers the day vividly. It’s when her parents, Johnny and Debbie Rynearson, took her out to the pasture to see a little brown colt, just 1 hour old. A colt intended to be Jami’s own someday.

The Rynearsons and their two daughters lived on five acres in a rural part of Lewiston. At the time they had 18 horses, some on their own property and others boarded in nearby pastures. This newest foal carried the blood of several American Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame luminaries, including Poco Bueno and Two Eyed Jack (see “Cowboy At A Glance,” page 2). “We were firm believers in Two Eyed Jack horses,” Debbie recalls. “You could do everything with them.”

Though bred for success, the colt perhaps didn’t appear so at the time. “I remember thinking he looked a little like a mule,” says Jami. “He had that typical light ‘muley mouth’ that true brown horses do, and big ears. But he was cute and well muscled, and also friendly, curious, and unafraid. I got to pet him, and he didn’t act bratty and try to bite like some of the other babies I’d been around.”

The foal, registered as Jacks Vaquero, came to be known simply as Cowboy (English for vaquero). At the time of his birth, Jami was already becoming a skilled rider on her talented Shetland Pony. Over the next four years, the 10-hand-tall Candy would carry her as Jami learned to love a variety of events, including barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, and goat tying.

Cowboy, meanwhile, was growing and impressing everyone with his levelheadedness. “I remember clipping his ears when he was a weanling,” Debbie recalls. “I used big clippers—they were awfully loud—but he didn’t even move. If I hadn’t already known it, that alone would have told me he was special.”

Adrenaline Rush
In the winter of Cowboy’s 2-year-old year, Jami’s father started him under saddle. An experienced horseman who helped his neighbors with their young stock, Johnny found the newly gelded horse to be calm and willing from day one.

“He’s the kind of horse you could ask to climb a tree, and he’d say, ‘Which one?’” says Debbie. “I remember riding him across neighbors’ land to cutting clinics on cold, snowy days in the winter of his 3-year-old year, and he was great. He wasn’t all that interested in cattle or the cutting machine, but he walked out smartly to get there and let us expose him to a bunch of different things.”

Cowboy and Scout barrel for home at the Washington State Junior Finals in Ellensburg.

Photo by Laura Rogers

By the time Cowboy was 4 and Jami was 8, the Rynearsons felt the two were ready for each other. Jami started riding the 14.1-hand gelding under her parents’ supervision, while continuing to show her Shetland. Then, one day in 1985, things changed forever.

“A local barrel-racing club my mom had founded was having its finals competition,” Jami recalls. “I ran Candy in the first run of my age group, then tried Cowboy in the second. He was so much faster, so much more powerful! It gave me an adrenaline rush. I had complete confidence in him, though, so it wasn’t scary,just incredibly fun.”After that,the pony was retired, and Cowboy became Jami’s steady partner.

“He was and is a quick learner,” Jami says. “In addition to barrel racing and other rodeo events, I did everything with him—trail riding, 4-H fitting and showing, Western pleasure, showmanship, trail. He excelled at it all.” A clever horse, Cowboy also excelled at untying himself. “He’s a regular Houdini,” says Jami. And though a kind, quiet eye is one of the gelding’s best traits, he’s not a lapdog sort of horse. “I wouldn’t say he’s standoffish, but he’s not at all cuddly,” Jami explains. “He definitely doesn’t like being petted around the head.” Other quirks include a loathing of llamas (“something about the smell,” Jami thinks) and a passion for Twizzlers red licorice (“he can eat a whole bag”).

His most distinguishing eccentricity, however, is something his family calls “the Cowboy shuffle.” It’s the little strut he does just before and after he makes a run.

“He doesn’t get hard to handle; he just takes these short little steps and is very perked up,” notes Jami. “It’s how we know he’s going to win.”

January 29th, 2012 -- Dressage and exciting. How often do you see those words in the same sentence? But last night's World Dressage Masters freestyle can be best described as an edge-of-the-seat nailbiter, to combine cliches.

Played out before a full house at Palm Beach County's Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, it showed the sport at its best. All the elements were there: An attractive backdrop, two of the world's best horses (both Dutchbred) going head-to-head, and the contrast between a seasoned veteran on his home turf and a young woman from across the Atlantic who's a rising star.

The USA's Steffen Peters and Great Britain's Charlotte Dujardin seem destined to meet again at the Olympics this summer, this time on her home turf, but it won't be the same. Other big names will be in the mix.

I've been privileged to see some great freestyles; Totilas at the 2008 World Equestrian Games; Blu Hors Matine at the 2006 World Equestrian Games; Brentina at several venues.

But a match race has something more to recommend it than a large class; the drama of going one-on-one, boiling competition down to its essence.

Steffen Peters' ride on Ravel to brilliantly produced music from "Avatar" was as smooth as an unrolling bolt of silk. Spectators found themselves transfixed by the harmony between man and animal, a couple in which each partner knows the other well and is the essence of cooperation. The judges graded it at 83.700 percent.

I talked with Steffen moments after his ride; I told him I wanted to capture the emotion of the moment -- both his and mine.

Listen: Steffen Peters

I could see why Steffen was on a post-competition high. Can you imagine how it would feel to be sitting on Ravel?

Steffen described it this way: "So much power, so elastic; it's just absolutely a blast to ride."

Valegro's performance with Charlotte, which came after Ravel's as the last in the eight-horse class, was a completely different experience. It was an energizing presentation that seethed with power, yet was less complex.

I felt sure Steffen would win the freestyle for the second year in a row until I watched Charlotte; then I wasn't so sure. Neither was Steffen. I saw him go up to her afterwards while she was waiting for her score; what he told her was that he thought she had it.

In the end, it practically came down to a tie. Her mark of 83.650 was just 0.05 of a point behind his. Three judges picked him for first; two picked her as the leader.

Wim Ernes, president of the ground jury (who had Steffen at 83.500 and Charlotte at 83.125) said the difference was in the choreography.

"It was a real high standard today. You could see they went to the limit," he commented.

Steffen wove a tapestry in which difficult movements, such as canter pirouette to piaffe and then a calm walk, were the threads that called attention to the teamwork on display.

Ravel has won the World Cup and competed at the Olympics and the WEG. Valegro is relatively new on the scene, making big splashes as a member of Britain's gold medal team at the European Championships last year, and winning the freestyle at Olympia in December.

Charlotte and her mentor, Carl Hester, had no intention of overfacing Valegro with footwork that was too difficult for his level of experience, but she said now it's time for a new floor plan and new music. (However, I loved the theme from "How to Train a Dragon." So does Canada's Ashley Holzer; she uses it for Breaking Dawn, who was seventh after some mistakes. Ashley smilingly did make a point about their duplication of themes as she walked past Charlotte after the class.)

I wondered how it felt to have victory slip away when it was so nearly in Charlotte's grasp. So I asked her.

Listen: Charlotte Dujardin

Charlotte Dujardin, Steffen Peters and Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfve on the podium with the trophy

© 2012 by Nancy Jaffer

Charlotte is looking forward to showing more of what Valegro can do.

"I don't think I'll ride another horse like him. He has gears beyond belief, and I mean there's still more in there. When I can make my degree of difficulty harder, he'll be able to do things that will boost his marks right up," she told me.

I don't want to shortchange other competitors in the class, particularly Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfve of Sweden on the Rheinlander, Favourit. What he lacked in piaffe power he made up for in other movements, such as a half-pass in passage on the short side of the arena (can you even imagine doing that?) and a unique pirouette at the collected walk. Her third-place score of 78.250 was something of which to be proud.

Carl Hester finished fourth in the freestyle on Wie Atlantico

© 2012 by Nancy Jaffer

Fourth was Carl, Charlotte's trainer, on Wie Atlantico. He had never shown the horse before coming to Florida (it belongs to his pregnant World Equestrian Games teammate, Fiona Bigwood) and his expertise made up ground even between Friday's Grand Prix and last night.

His well-used grand prix music from Tom Jones that had seen a number of his horses through over the years was quite lively. Though he had to keep the choreography relatively simple, given the short amount of time he had been riding the talented chestnut, it was quite an impressive recital. I loved his go-for-it extended canter that demonstrated both showmanship and control. He was scored at 74.850 percent.

The last time I spoke with Carl was at the 2004 Olympics, but he treated me like an old friend. I cannot say enough about his style, class and friendliness. If everyone in the competition horse world were as outgoing and engaging, who knows what other sports we would be able to overtake in popularity.

Here's a taste of the conversation we had after the freestyle.

Listen: Carl Hester

Adrienne Lyle and Wizard

© 2012 by Nancy Jaffer

Earlier in the day, the Grand Prix Special showed off the talents of Adrienne Lyle's ride, Wizard, and the amazing Paragon, ridden by Heather Blitz. They finished 1-2, on 73.244 percent and 72.044 percent respectively.

Although the Special here usually is more of what I would tend to call a consolation class for the bottom eight in the 16-horse field, riders can choose to enter it rather than the freestyle, which carries more than three times the Special's prize money.

But U.S. team technical advisor Anne Gribbons wanted her riders to fulfill the qualifying criteria for this June's Olympic trials, and two Specials is part of that. The Special is taking on more importance than usual at the London Olympics because it is part of the team score. Previously, only the Grand Prix counted for the team total. And in Heather's case, having just finished up her Small Tour experience last fall, her Grand Prix freestyle is still a work in progress.

Debbie McDonald and her husband Bob, right, with Steffen Peters watch Adrienne Lyle ride

© 2012 by Nancy Jaffer

Adrienne is lovingly coached by Debbie McDonald, who was brought to tears once again by her protege's performance and that of the horse they have trained for six years.

"I thought he looked unbelievable," Debbie commented.

"I feel like a proud mama. It's so emotional for me; it's just special."

Here's what Adrienne had to say after her victory.

Listen: Adrienne Lyle

The Masters, which offered a total of $130,000 in prize money here as part of the globe's richest dressage series (the other segments are held in Europe) has proved it can draw a crowd. With demand being so great this year (it was a sellout) plans call for adding at least another 1,000 seats in 2013. And at that time, we're told that Totilas (who couldn't come this year because he wasn't fit after a slight injury) will be part of the mix and perhaps some other big-name Europeans as well.

The success of the last two years apparently has prompted the Europeans to re-think their concerns about how their horses would handle shipping here and back at the start of the season.

I'm changing gears this afternoon and heading over to the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, about 20 minutes from Jim Brandon, for some show jumping. I wish the cloning thing I've been working on was completed, because I missed a lot at the WEF. But I'll try to make up for lost time, so be sure to check back this evening for a bulletin.

Until then,

Penelope represented a new beginning for Robin Davison. After retiring her mare because of an injury, Davison had embarked on a search for a replacement. Eventually, a video of a 2-year-old bald-faced, blue-eyed filly made its way from Florida to Colorado, and it was compelling enough for Davison and her trainer to travel east for a closer look.

“As soon as I put my hands on her, I knew she was my next horse,” recalls Davison. Penelope had been ridden only 10 times, but she was sweet and willing, and Davison had visions of bonding with the pretty filly as they trained for competition.

But their relationship took a very different route.

Penelope was delivered to Davison’s boarding barn in December 2009. But the excitement of her arrival turned quickly to concern when the filly came out of the trailer obviously lame. Her right hind fetlock was swollen and had several small cuts. Davison called the veterinary school at Colorado State University (CSU), and an ambulatory clinician soon arrived, examined the leg, took radiographs and pronounced the bones and tendons to be intact. Perhaps the filly had gotten cast in a stall or kicked while in the trailer.

In any case, the injury would most likely heal with a few days of rest and hand-walking, Davison was told.

By chance, the same veterinarian from CSU came to the farm the next day to see a different horse. He offered to take a follow-up look at Penelope and was surprised to find the fetlock was larger than the day before.

“He figured it was an infection and put her on antibiotics for five days, but the swelling persisted,” says Davison. After yet another veterinary visit, more radiographs, an ultrasound, two peni-cillin shots and four weeks of hand-walking, Penelope was sound, but the swelling had extended up to her hock, and the cuts didn’t appear to be healing.

“I spent most of that winter hand-walking both my horses and nursing Penelope’s leg,” says Davison. “We’d cold hose it, and wrap and unwrap. Just when we thought it was under control, it would swell up again.” Eventually, with the help of a steroid, the leg appeared to have healed, and in February the filly was finally started in training under saddle.

Davison took Penelope to the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo in March, where the filly was used in a natural horsemanship demonstration. She proved to be a quick and willing learner, and the day went well, but something the trainer said afterward left Davison with a feeling of dread. “She told me that there was something not quite right with Penelope,” says Davison, “that she was very sensitive over her topline and touchy. I wasn’t sure what to make of that at the time, but my gut sank with the idea that there might be something seriously wrong with my new horse.”

A few weeks later, 45 days after her training had begun, Penelope began to develop saddle sores. “They were strange ruffled patches of hair first, then they turned into flaky dry skin,” says Davison. “Someone suggested it might be a fungal infection, so we tried a Nolvasan bath, but they just got bigger.” Because the skin looked “loose” in the area, someone else suggested the filly might be dehydrated, but her capillary0 refill time was fine and she was drinking plenty.

Davison called veterinarian Amy Jergens, DVM, DACVS, who noticed that Penelope’s saddle was too big, which might have been the cause of the sores. She recommended two weeks of rest and a new, better-fitting saddle. But the wounds did not heal as expected.

“She actually had three sores---one on each side of her withers and a third farther back on the right side of her spine, near the flank,” says Davison. They never healed.

Meanwhile, Davison had called in a massage therapist, who reported that Penelope’s skin, particularly along her topline, didn’t seem to “snap” back as quickly as it should. Davison recalled the observation the clinician had made at the expo and, with a sense of dread, called Jergens to make an appointment for the following day.

A heart-dropping diagnosis
Jergens took a close look at Penelope’s sores and recommended sending a sample of her hair to the University of California--Davis. “I asked her why and [she said] ‘Let’s just wait until we get the results,’ in that way that makes you worry more,” says Davison.

With prompting, Jergens explained she thought Penelope might have hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA), also called hyperelastosis cutis. It’s an inherited genetic disorder that affects the development of collagen, the long, fibrous protein molecules that give strength to connective tissues, and interferes with how it folds and interlinks with other tissues.

As a result, horses with HERDA have weakened connective tissue. The disease often first becomes apparent in the skin of the back, after the horse begins training under saddle. The fragile skin tears and sloughs off easily and is slow to heal, and the scars that do form are lumpy and break open easily. HERDA horses tend to be sensitive along their backs, perhaps because nerves are pinched in malformed skin. But HERDA also affects connective tissue throughout the body, and these horses often have orthopedic issues related to the breakdown of tendons and ligaments; their heart valves are thin, and the structures of the inner eye can be weak.

Penelope seemed healthy, apart from her sores and the “touchiness” along her topline, but there was more evidence to consider. HERDA is found only in Quarter Horses and in breeds, such as Paints and Appaloosas, that carry Quarter Horse bloodlines, and it is particularly prevalent in some popular lines of cutting horses. Davison needed only a few minutes of online research to discover that her filly’s pedigree was riddled with the names of horses associated with HERDA.

Because the gene that causes HERDA is recessive, a foal needs to receive a copy of it from both the sire and dam in order to develop the disease. A foal who receives only one copy of the gene would be clinically normal but would be a carrier, capable of passing the defect on to the next generation.

Davison did not know the HERDA status of Penelope’s sire and dam, but she could infer that answer from her Internet research: “We started looking up some of the foals of both her sire and dam, and many of them were listing HERDA
test results.”

While she waited for the results on Penelope, Davison did enough research to be fairly certain what she was dealing with. “I moved Penelope from the large boarding barn to a friend’s farm so she could be turned out alone and get constant attention,” she says.

Still, when she received the confirmation that Penelope had HERDA, Davison was devastated: “I felt like I couldn’t breathe. And the more I researched, the more panicked I got. Not only was it clear that I’d never be able to ride her, I was reading that most of these horses are put down by the time they are 4 years old because of ongoing infections and the incredible amount of attention they require.”

Finding a way to live
Within days Davison contacted two leading experts on HERDA, Ann Rashmir-Raven, DVM, who was then at Mississippi State University, and Nena Winand, DVM, PhD, of Cornell University. “I learned that horses are affected to different extents,” she says---some cases are far less severe than others.

As Rashmir-Raven explains, “Some horses are so mildly affected they are ridden and compete---I’ve seen approximately 20 affected horses that have made money or had performance points. I’ve also seen cases that are so extreme, the skin spontaneously sloughs off or peels away. I also suspect that many of the most severely affected foals are born septic and die without a diagnosis.”

Davison was heartened to hear that Penelope’s case was apparently moderate, as the two experts assessed her from a distance, based on her owner’s description. Although it was unlikely she’d ever be able to carry a rider, she might have a chance to experience some normalcy in her life.

“That gave me hope,” says Davison, “and I started to move forward with groundwork and even some limited ground driving. I was determined to let her be a normal horse for as long as possible, even if it meant I could never ride her. Doctors Winand and Rashmir-Raven were extremely patient in answering all my questions on how to care for Penelope and how I might proceed.”

Davison developed a management routine designed to protect her filly’s fragile skin as much as possible, from abrasion as well as from extreme weather, including sunshine, which is damaging to horses with HERDA. “She’s on a thick bed of shavings with a private run,” she says. “The turnout pasture is treeless with a smooth, clean fence line to keep her from injuring herself.”

After the hottest, sunniest time of day, Penelope is turned out with a gentle equine companion. “I know there are HERDA owners who do not want to turn their horses out because of a fear they’ll be injured,” says Davison, “but I think it’s important to allow her to be a horse sometimes.”

To Lose That Weight, I'll...
Walk my five-acre paddock and toss out the rocks. A never-ending job.
-Jo Costello, California

Heft hay bales. Our pasture will be gone by then, and we’ll be throwing out 50-pound hay bales for the next four or five months.
-Mara Watson, South Carolina

Tackle some put-off projects that will keep me out at the barn—and away from the leftovers. First on the list: Refinishing an old driving cart.
-Dana Moore, Colorado

Man the wheelbarrow ’til spring. Portland’s wet fall/winter weather means I have to park the mini tractor/trailer we use to haul stall cleanings to the manure dump site. It’s a 200-yard trek, one way.
-Patty Brumley, Oregon

Practice my showmanship by jogging next to my horse. I also find riding in two-point position—like a jumper rider—is quite aerobic.
-P.B. Jules, New Mexico

Sprint from the house to the barn and back, instead of strolling. As a bonus, it helps keep me warm on the coldest days.
-Jenna Johnson, Washington

Ride my horse to the McDonald’s drive-through, instead of taking the car.
-Sophie Thomas, Virginia

Hand-walk my horse during warm-ups and cool-downs. I give my older mare a lot of walk time before and after work sessions, so when I want to burn calories, I just hop down and stride out next to her. (The sandy arena makes for an extra-challenging leg-toner!)
-Kelsey Watanabe, Florida

Ride as much as possible. Our November weather is typically fabulous-----—in the 60s or 70s. (Not to mention a nice break after 100+ temps for two months in the summer!)
-Nala Ann Harris, Texas

Give each of my horses a vigorous currying, alternating arms. Then I work my legs with a series of step-ups onto hay bales.
-Julia Edwards, Idaho

Drop my stirrups for at least part of my practice session, every day. really gets the blood pumping.
-Paula Jensen, Arizona

Lug buckets of warm water to try to thaw out a frozen water tank in the pasture. That is a workout.
-Kurt Moorman, Nebraska

Or will you?

As an adult amateur who’s competed and won at this level since I was a youth exhibitor, I’ve learned there’s more—much more—to a first-place go than being a good rider on a good horse. While those attributes may get you to the arena gate, they’re essentially the same ones your rivals possess. For your best shot at finishing in front of them, you need another set of attributes, ones that add up to planning, planning, and more planning. You need to know how to create a ready-to-win roadmap, with no detail left unmanaged, and no controllable element left to chance. Otherwise, the smallest chink in your preparatory armor can be all it takes to ruin your chances and leave you making a long, disappointed drive back home.

Using this month’s World Championship Quarter Horse Show in Oklahoma City as my example, I’ll jump-start you on learning how to draft your own big-show blue- print. I’ll share the process I use to plan for the health, comfort, and safety of my World-winning gelding, Zippo LT (“LT”). I’ll give highlights of how my trainers and I peak him for top performance at just the right time. And, I’ll provide extra key tips known to veterans of the major shows, but often learned the hard way by first-timers.

Create A Team
Though you may picture yourself as the one in the spotlight, winning at competition’s upper level isn’t a do-it-yourself project. Even if you have the skills, confidence, and experience to show without the aid of a professional trainer, you’ll still need assistance from other people invested in your success. That’s why it’s important to create a team of people you can depend on and fully trust to help with every detail. The sooner you begin to build your team and establish a good working relationship with each member, the better off you’ll be.

Your trainer, vet, farrier, and parents, or significant other are among those whose help you’ll count on. Others, who may not be so obvious, include such helpers as these: the mechanic who’ll service your rig for the trip; the friend or family member who’ll take care of your place while you’re gone; the dry cleaner, seamstress, and hat shaper responsible for making your outfits look like a million; the co-worker who’ll take up your slack at your job; the driver, paid or unpaid, who’ll help get your horse to the show; the best friend who’ll be your emotional sponge; and the assistant (trust me, you’ll need one) who’ll help you get ready for your classes. Every exhibitor has a unique set of needs, so you might need other helpers as well.

While each of your team members will have a separate job, their cumulative efforts will add up to one critical benefit—the freed-up mental space you’ll need to devote full concentration to your performances. The fewer things left for you to worry about and to pour precious energies into doing yourself, the sharper you’ll be when it counts.

Start Early
The November AQHA World Show requires pre-qualification, so it’s only natural to want to kick back, relax, and rest your horse after you’ve earned the necessary points earlier in the year. But don’t make the common first-timer mistake of giving yourself a month to get ready. That’s not enough time, especially if you also go to school or work at a full time job. My trainers and I begin getting our game plan together four months out, which means we start in July.

One of the first things I do is schedule a thorough vet exam for LT, including vaccinations and bloodwork. If he has any issues, such as need for supplements, this leaves enough time for them to be corrected before the show. Keep in mind that you’ll be putting your horse into an ultra-stressful travel and show environment. He’ll need all the health help you can give him. Also remember to book a date for getting his pre-trip health and travel papers issued. You don’t want a forced delay in departure simply because results of your horse’s Coggins test aren’t back yet.

I also plot out my horse’s farrier appointments for optimal timing. LT’s shoes are reset every six weeks, and I want him freshly shod at least a week before he leaves for the two-week show. That leaves enough time for him to recover from any minor soreness, but also means I have to think ahead to get the timing right.

Other advice: This isn’t the time to make drastic changes in how your horse is shod, or to try out a new farrier. You could hurt your campaign more than you help it by venturing into the unknown.

If you’ll be hauling your horse yourself, use part of your lead time to get your truck tuned up, your tires checked (or replaced, if necessary), your trailer’s floor and wiring checked, and so forth. Plot your route. If you’ll need to lay over, know where you’ll stay and where you’ll put your horse for the night. If you intend to use a shipper, as some exhibitors do to minimize travel stress on themselves, get the space booked and confirmed early on. Ditto for your hotel room.

Get your order in early for any new clothing, especially if it’ll be custom and require fittings. Send your show hat out to be professionally cleaned and shaped. The latter task’s more important than you might think, because a clean, crisp hat makes a good first impression. At showing’s upper level, it’s all about the details, and this is one of the easiest for you to control.

I love George Morris because he has so much insight and wisdom in the hunter/jumper world. I look forward to seeing his articles in Practical Horseman Magazine!
Jenna Williams, Texas

George Morris. For the simple reason that he is the god of the hunter jumper world. I mean, he literally wrote the book on hunt seat equitation! Without question the single most influential man in the history of jumping in the United States.
Melissa Davis Walker, Texas

My riding idol is and always has been Margie Engle. She was one of the first major riders I got to meet as a teenager and she was such a sweet, genuine person and always took time to sign autographs and take pictures with us fans after a Grand Prix, whether she did well in it or not. She has always been my role model.
Free Tack, via Facebook

My riding idol is my trainer. She always has the right piece of advice to master a new skill, a new point of view to perfect the old skills. She has the right exercise to brighten a not-so-good ride. Every time I ride, I pick up something new because of her. She pushes me to my limit, but only gives me what I can handle.
Rachel M, North Carolina

Without a doubt my riding idol is my dad, a true horseman in every sense of the term. I said to him when I was a boy, “Wouldn’t it be great if humans and horses spoke the same language?” Over the years my dad taught me that the time one spends in a nurturing relationship with his horse, similar to that of a loving parent and child, will pay off tenfold in the future, Done with care, that horse will eventually want to show just how fast he can run and how high he can jump.
Kurt “Shepherd” Lidtke, Oregon

Currently I look up to a fellow rider in my barn “Lara” she works full time, trains hard and sets goals for herself and accomplishes them. I told the trainer I am going to follow the LARA PROGRAM of dedication.
Chris Cole, Washington

Bert de Némethy, Bill Steinkraus, Michael Matz and Joe Fargis, because horses come first.
Virginia Gillis, via Facebook

My riding idols are great women I share a barn with! They have taught me to not give up, that I AM a good rider and to just love my horse and live for the moment! We are all at different stages in our “horse” lives and each of us brings special wisdom that everyone can draw upon. HOORAH to the ladies of Broken Down Farm!
Kim Schmittendorf, via Facebook

My riding idol is my trainer because she has taught me everything I know. My headstrong thoroughbred is tough to handle, but my trainer has taught me to sit back, take a breath, and SLOW DOWN. She is an amazing rider and has blown me away with her skills on a day-to-day basis. I find myself looking up to her and not famous riders who don’t teach me to better my riding every day.
Katie Grothen, via Facebook

My riding idol is Beverly Strauss, director Midatlantic Horse Rescue. She buys horses who are off of the racetrack, rescues some from sale barns. She cares for and rides these young horses, to get them to a level of relaxation so they can be adopted for new jobs. This is not easy or with out risk, but Bev loves and believes in the potential of these beautiful young horses. Every one has a busy life, job and family. Bev works her life around saving these horses. She also is involved in Pony Club and fundraising for the rescue.
Ann Lyons, via Facebook

My rider idol would have to be my old trainer Liz. She taught me everything I know about horses and she was like an open book about anything. She went through everything from the correct diagonal to cantering around the ring bareback with no reins and my arms out as if I was flying. I’ll never forget her, and I would be lucky to ever become as great a horsewoman as she is. It was a shame she went off to college because I would miss the connection we shared, but the memories will stay with me for a lifetime.
Juli Thomas, via Facebook

William Steinkraus! He respected our sport, he respected the horses. He never accepted good enough. They say we try to achieve perfection but can’t reach it. We probably can’t, but Steinkraus did! The style he used and his number of accomplishments are an inspiration to anyone wanting to ride.
Lee Johnson, Texas

My riding idol by far has to be George Morris. He is an AMAZING rider and teacher. When I am preparing for a show I always read anything he has written. Many times I have read his articles before shows and have mostly gotten reserve champion. I wouldn’t be half the rider I am today without him. He is an amazing, skillful, graceful rider, and I will always idolize him for that.
Logan Mumford, Virginia

My riding idol is Anne Kursinski. She’s a top-notch professional and a wonderful teacher. She’s aware of all aspects of horse care, not just training. I live in New Jersey and I’m dying to take a few lessons with her!
Courtney Krajcik Freund, New Jersey

As one watches the Grands Prix, Olympics or the World Cup, the riders are skilled, but nonetheless, they are not always the best riding role models. With dirty boots, hair in a ponytail, abusive kicks and smacks to the horse’s side (usually portraying the riders mistake), and the snooty comments to us jumpers in the lower levels, not every parent or trainer wants their student or child to grow up and behave in this manner. Lane Clarke exceeds the criteria for a Grand Prix rider in my book. His riding ability is exceptional: he glides with the horse over 6-foot verticals and barely moves as the horse canters the course. When a ride goes wrong, he does the best thing for the ride, usually a tap behind the leg for pace or a “whoa” to give the horse fair warning before it gets slowed by the bit. Most of Lane’s rounds are videotaped, giving him the ability to learn from the mistakes instead of repeating them into bad habits. Off the horse, he is friendly and kind to everyone, with no hint of malice after a loss towards the successor. Most riders will wave other ogling fans away, when Lane is modest enough to wave away the praise and have a friendly conversation. Even though there is an eleven-year age difference between us, I feel as though I can relate to Lane in his youth. When I ride, I aspire nothing more than to be like Lane Clarke, the best rider in my understanding.
Taylor E.Moore, California

Dr. Sherry Ackerman, author of Dressage in the Fourth Dimension, is my riding idol. She embodies the power of being in the moment and striving for oneness with the horse. Watching her ride allows me to see that riding is truly an art form to be developed through practice and presence.
Marcy Criner, South Carolina

I would have to say Boyd Martin is my idol! He has been through so much lately with his father passing and the barn fire. He’s still riding and going strong after all that happening! It’s the perfect example of when something bad happens you have to just keep doing what you love to do and everything will work out!
Megan Pustarfi, Georgia

My riding idols are everyone I’ve ever trained with. There are only so many times they can yell, “Look up! Lock your arms!” I’ve learned the hard way a few times. They’re usually right!
Breann Nicole, Florida

My mentor, Christine Boehle of Precision Training of Rogue River, Oregon. She allowed me the honor of apprenticing under her for 2½ years and her confidence, ease and grace in the saddle, either Western or English, is something to behold. She is my riding idol.
Karen Johnson, Montana

My riding idol is the former head of the jumping department at Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre in West Virginia: Michelle Estep. I rode under her for a year and a half and learned more in that time than I did after riding for 6 to 7 years under a different trainer. She helped my confidence so much and she pushed me when I needed it. I have come such a long way since riding with her; she is the voice in my head when I ride. She is one of those trainers the does what she teaches. If we had a problem with something when she rode she would work it out and then relay to us. I will never forget the time I had riding with her. And hope to be able to ride just like her some day.
Laura Jane Waldron, Georgia

As much as I admire George Morris, I think my idol is going to have to be a trainer whose name, sadly, I’ve forgotten. (We went through a lot of trainers at that barn.) She was easily the meanest trainer I’ve ever ridden under but she did wonders for my position in the saddle. She also had a steel rod in her and had been told not to ride again. So naturally she did exactly what the doctors said not to. She couldn’t ride long and always limped when she walked but she rode anyways.
Jamie Edgerly, Florida

My riding idol is my mom, no matter how dorky it sounds. She has achieved so much with so little. She has inspired me to compete, win and own my riding business. She started her business with absolutely nothing and became the most popular barn in town to where she had a waiting list because all she did was win and strive to be the best even with metal plates and rods in her back. I pray that I will one day be as successful as she was and hopefully strive to be more but a heart of determination like hers is going to be pretty hard to top!
Chandalyn Chrzanowski, Georgia

My trainer, Alison Flury, because she has not only helped me advance into a better rider, she’s given me confidence in the saddle.
Dee Sousa, Illinois

I find Maryland dressage rider Julio Mendoza absolutely inspirational. He clearly loves his horses; it is hard not to enjoy watching him work. I have seen him at the Horse World Expo a couple times, and the whole time he works his Friesians around in FEI-level dressage movements, he obviously lets them know they’re doing a good job, and they love him, too! It’s a great reminder that we need to remind our own horses how much we love and appreciate them, and they’ll try their hardest for us.
Ashley Bonner, Maryland

My riding idol is my instructor, Emily. She may not be famous, but she knows how to ride! She is always supportive to everyone in anything they do. She makes riding something that is easy to understand. Another thing is how she has big dreams that she strives for. Right now Emily is still very young and she still dreams big. Even though it is not always easy for her, she stays happy and keeps her hopes up. Emily is working hard in college to get a business degree and horsemanship degree. She wants to own her own stable one day and I think she has the drive to do it. Knowing her, she will never give up and will become one of the best and most caring barn owner/riding instructor that I will ever know.
Jessie Harris, North Carolina

My riding idol would be anyone I learn from. Anyone I see doing something that could help my horse be as healthy and comfortable as possible or help me become a better rider. Going to shows and seeing the ways people set up their equipment or what they do to their horses after a rigorous cross-country run.
Julia Mace, Maine

I ride English Hunt Seat and I’d have to say my idol is my former riding instructor Kristine Stephenson. As a Junior, she trained and showed with the legendary George Morris, where she won numerous awards. I hadn’t taken any lessons for about a year after I purchased my first horse, Taxi, so we had developed some really bad habits. Tina always made the lessons fun. I developed great balance, and I started showing and even won a few awards. My greatest achievement was when I won the Adult Equitation trophy at a show. Four years ago I moved out of state and now have my own farm with three horses. I still call Tina for her advice, which she gives without hesitation.
Toni Gagliardi, Kentucky

Two current riders stick out in my mind: The first is Belgian show jumper Phillip Le Jeune. It really touched my heart to see him dismount at the 2010 World Equestrian Games and hug his horse and the horse’s groom and then go over and hug Vigo d’Arsouilles and that groom. Seeing a top rider who just won one of the biggest competitions in the world thank his equine partners and the teams of people who put in hard work really showed that he isn’t in it just for the money and fame. He truly is a humble person. The second person would be McLain Ward for taking the Sapphire disqualification at the 2010 Jumping World Cup Final in stride and being a good sport. That was a much-needed breath of fresh air in a sport that is, at times, filled with bad sportsmanship, drama queens and politics.
Tiffany Stephens, Ohio

My 4-H leader from when I was younger, Dennis Keefer, had polio when he was younger and could no longer ride, yet he drove his Hackney horses to many championships. He also taught me to ride Western pleasure and hunter under saddle, as well as coached me to my first showmanship championship—all while having not ridden in many years. Most importantly though, he taught me horses are not all about the ribbons but about the relationship between horse and rider (or handler) and the person they help you become. Also that the horse comes first! He is an amazing man and still a great friend and mentor to this day!
Sarah Quellmalz, Michigan

My idol is Greg Best; I always looked up to him for riding an incredible horse like Gem Twist.
Joann M. Robertson, New York

There are so many great people and horses to look to for inspiration! I have been watching Heather Blitz in dressage, and she and her horse Paragon are truly inspirational. Edward Gal is someone I admire, and Steffen Peters, too. I also think Mary King in eventing is awesome. And I saw McLain Ward and Sapphire in an amazing performance a few years ago. Mary Wanless for her training wisdom.
Cindy Bean, Florida

My riding idol is my 66-year-old mom. She isn’t a world-famous trainer or rider, but she is the best example of true horsemanship I know. As a teenager, she qualified for the Medal and Maclay Finals but wasn’t able to attend. After a long career in education, she came back to her love of horses and purchased and bred an off-the-track Thoroughbred. She raised, started and trained the filly—and took up eventing in her 60s! Not only is she the fittest “senior” I know, she is the most patient and caring horseperson. She believes in developing a true partnership with a horse. It might take longer to achieve results, but the result is a happy, healthy horse who trusts her rider.
Kitren Nickerson, Colorado

Margie Engle is not only an amazing and talented athlete; she is a role model for female riders. She is strong, competitive and never gives up. I saw her and Indigo win a local Grand Prix and fell in love with them. One day I want to finish my Grand Prix jump-off course with a blue ribbon and be like Margie.
Lena Lopatina, Ohio

I remember the first time I saw Ian Millar and Big Ben. Watching them make such big jumps look so effortless took my breath away. There was just something about that team that made me realize this was what I wanted to do.
Doreen Guthrie, Alberta

My rider idol would definitely have to be Lainey Ashker. I was present at Rolex when she had her awful fall, and I remember how time stood still. I read every post about her recovery, so seeing her back at Rolex and running successfully almost brings tears to my eyes. If that doesn’t show a love and passion for this sport, I don’t know what does.
Carson Loder, Ohio

My riding idol is eventer Caitlin Ziegler. She has accomplished so much at such a young age. She has great form and gives me hope that, even though I’m older, I can be successful also.
Heather Hartland, Pennsylvania

My riding idol is Beezie Madden because she pursued her riding career—and still is pursuing it. I hope to be half as good as she is when I get out of college and start pursuing my own career at the higher levels.
Alison A. Thomas, Arkansas

The day I asked my then-6-year-old daughter if she wanted to learn how to ride horses and she answered with an enthusiastic, “Yes!” I had no idea what it would lead to. She has never let anything get in her way of pursuing her dream of becoming an accomplished rider. She is as gracious a champion as she is when she’s not in the ribbons. When I was 40, she inspired me to fulfill my dream of learning to ride. Now she’s 21 and getting ready to begin her last year as an equine studies major at Virginia Intermont College. I am proud to be able to ride in the same ring with my riding idol—my daughter, Claire.
Paige Mawdsley, Virginia

My idols are everyone who dedicates their time and a good portion of their lives to riding. As riders, we know the highest highs and the lowest lows, yet we continue because we love our sport and the horses who make it worthwhile.
Kyllian Genzmer, Idaho

My riding idol is my trainer, Jessica Masten. After experiencing two near-career-ending accidents, I found myself at Jessica’s barn. She was so kind and patient, and she helped me get back into the saddle. Her support Jessica’s motivation and encouragement helped push me through pain and recovery to help me reach my goals.
Kimberly Smith, Texas

Read more answers to this question in the October 2011 issue of Practical Horseman magazine.