Tag Archives for hunterjumper

The Chronicle of the Horse is celebrating its 75th birthday in 2012. This is the last article in a seven-week series in which we’ve brought you a decade-by-decade look at the history that has filled its pages since 1937. I’m a little dissappointed that this article doesn’t mention the introduction of the USHJA sponsered hunter derbies. I feel like that has had a huge impact on the horse show world. Nevertheless, great read.

The Chronicle Over the Decades: 2000s

Okay, y’all. We have something to discuss here. Young and upcoming trainer Brandon Gibson and his adorable filly took the Best Young Horse title at Devon 2012. How do you guys feel about the Nantucket Red pants? Too much or lighthearted and fun? Share your thoughts!

(Source: http://www.youtube.com/)

Memorial Day for Equestrians: Many Reasons to be Thankful

During this week of memorial, the Aiding and Abetting Amateur would like to give fellow equestrians reasons to be thankful for those who so bravely serve our country: past, present, and future. 

It is hard to consider the modern sport of American “forward seat” riding without considering the influence the military has had on our sport and its creation. The Calvary School at Fort Riley is often times considered the birth place of the American Riding system. Here, the unique American system of light seat, light hands was developed. If you are a follower (or disciple, more likely) of George Morris, you know that nearly every suggestion he offers originates from this Ft. Riley system. This school of riding has greatly influenced Morris in his teaching content…. and style (you know what I mean). 

Here is a brief quote from the Ft. Riley Manual of Equitation: 

“The proper amount of accord must exist between the legs and the 
reins, so that the displacement of the center of graviety and the 
movement produced by the legs may be regulated and maintained by them to the extent needed to obtain the walk, trot or gallop, as desired by 
the rider.”  Page 92. 

Not only has the modernization of our sport depended on the military, so to do our freedoms. For this reason, it’s time for the equestrian community to give a big hats off, and helmets off, to all our service men and women. 

                               

With the all the gratitude and gratefulness 

The Aiding and Abetting Amateur 

Photo credit: http://www.thenorthcarolinacowgirl.com

“On April 12, the equestrian community lost one of its most beloved figures when John Quirk passed away four months shy of his 92nd birthday, August 15. To say he was a horseman is accurate―that aspect of his life is being celebrated at the Del Mar Horse Show Hunter Jumper Week, where a new perpetual trophy will be unveiled in his name―but it falls short of capturing his vivid and adventurous journey.” MUST READ! 

Awesome Article: John Quirk Remembered.

Horse Show Blues: Right Color, Wrong Mood

Horse Show Blues: Right Color, Wrong Mood

So today I woke up with the horse show blues. I know you know what I’m talking about. All I’ve been able to think about all day is feeling the wind on my face while zipping down barn aisles in a golf cart, picking stalls before the sun is out, the sweet aroma of show sheen, and the thrill of a good round. I want to be at an evening exhibitor party, the in-gate, the secretary’s office, the tack store, the port-a-potty… anywhere but reality. It’s been too long. I’m like a druggie all strung out. I need a fix, but it will likely be several weeks before I can get one.

Like all addicts, I’m searching for alternatives. Here’s how I’m trying to cling on to my last little bit of sanity. I’ve been attending horse shows with friends. I’ve recently become the honorary groom. This system is actually going to work out beautifully, you see? When it’s finally my moment of glory, they will owe me one, and will have to be my indentured servant for the day. I’m organizing, re-organizing, re-re-organizing my tack trunk so that when the day finally gets here, I’ll be horse-show ready.

Anyways- back to reality now. But in my mind, I’m at the horse show. I’m putting in beautiful rounds in the Amateur Owners, I’m galloping in the Derby under the lights, I’m bathing my horse and thrilled to tell him, ‘job well done’. In my mind, I’m watching the Grand Prix, I’m cleaning tack, I’m pulling the rig into the Kentucky Horse Park, I’m holding my blue ribbon.

I’ve Got the Blues

Lyle Lovett:

I’ve got the blues,

won’t you save me?

I’ve got the blues,

as far as I can see.

Gabbing about GABA, Again.

Our USHJA article concerning Carolina Gold, GABA, and a statement release last week has proven to be timely. Now the FEI is acting on the Carolina Gold controversies. This drug conversation just keeps on making it into the headlines. It certainly is something our industry is just going to have to deal with. 

   

Check out what Chronicle wrote today, : 

“The Fédération Internationale Equestre added gamma amino butyric acid and hydroxy-gamma butyric acid to the FEI Equine Prohibited Substances List as Banned Substances. GABA and hydroxy-GABA are ingredients in the substance known as Carolina Gold.

The U.S. Equestrian Federation banned the use of Carolina Gold and any other substance including GABA at the end of February after research revealed “adverse reactions.”

The USEF brought the substances to the attention of the FEI List Group, the expert group tasked with determining which substances should be included on the prohibited substances list. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter used to calm horses.

Graeme Cooke, the FEI Veterinary Director, advised the national federations via e-mail that requests to an FEI Official or Veterinary Delegate to administer any substance containing GABA or Hydroxy-GABA at an FEI event would be denied as of April 27, 2012.

GABA and hydroxy-GABA are subject to a 90-day implementation period per the Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication rules. Following that period, the use of the drug will be subject to sanctions.”

http://www.chronofhorse.com/article/fei-bans-substances-carolina-gold

This topic is interesting, for sure. 

How are you all feeling about it! Opinions welcomed!