Arabian Sport Horse Championship, Boudheib, Abu Dhabi
FEI World Dressage Challenge, UAE by Tracy Wyngard-Gill
The Show HuB Equestrian Issue 8 - June 2017 www.uaeshowhub.com
Amy Mathieson - Contributing Editor & Freelance Journalist Amy has worked in equestrian journalism for the past 10 years, first as deputy editor for Redpin Publishing’s equestrian magazine then on the news desk at Horse & Hound where she spent 8 years and progressed to news editor specialising in racing and show jumping.
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www.uaeshowhub.com
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4-9 Arabian Sport Horse Championship, Boudheib 10-11 Dressage Anywhere 12-15 Horse Retirement 16 - 21 Equine Education 22-23 Sport Awards of Excellence 2017 24-25 Farhang Sedeghi's New Venture 26-27 Casall ASK 28-29 Two Big Stars Retire 30-33 FEI World Dressage Challenge 2017, UAE 34-35 Team FBH in Europe 36-37 Olivia Towers Dressage 38-39 Interview with Charlotte Kidd 42-43 Following our Show Jumpers 44-45 Farrier Anthony Rodia 46 Apps of the Month
Abby Blom - Producer & Content Director Abby’s equestrian passion has been ingrained since birth riding show ponies nationally as a young girl in England and competing up to foxhunter level. Trained at advanced medium level in dressage she has performed for royalty at the private opening ceremony of Meydan WC 2011 and at the Education for Borders conference at the Burj Khalifa. Contact: abbyblom@uaeshowhub.com
Romina Amarante Abbas - Sales & Social Media An Italian citizen born and raised in the UAE, Romina is an active competitor in the local show jumping circuit. Since studying for her bachelor degree she has gained vast experience managing riding schools in the UAE and instructing at all levels. Contact: rominaabbas@uaeshowhub.com
Welcome to the June edition of The Show Hub - Equestrian. Conceived in 2014 we are honoured to be in partnership with FBH Stables to bring you the Middle East's first fully digital equestrian magazine now in its 8th edition. Covering all disciplines from enthusiast to the very elite we will be shining a light on the UAE equestrian scene to our global audience. You’ll find the latest news plus expert advice on horse care, riding and training. Our accompanying website is the hub of GCC equestrian with start lists, results, photography, bloggers, live streams, horses for sale and much more. www.uaeshowhub.com
The Show Hub
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Emily Bright - Editor & Sales An Equine Sports Massage Therapist for 15 years now working for Dubai Equine Hospital under world renowned equine therapist Belinda Gatland. Emily and Abby came together through their love of show ponies and charity work. Contact: emilybright@uaeshowhub.com
Contents:
Cover Image - Amanda Brewer riding Vitorioso by Tara Hamilton Photography
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Purebred Arabian Champion RS Sahib ridden by Charlotte Kidd
Arabian Sport Horse Championship
Boudheib, Abu Dhabi Saturday, 29th April 2017
The 2nd Arabian Sport Horse Championship took place on Saturday, 29th April 2017 at Boudheib’s impressive HH Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Grand Hall, the largest indoor arena for horses in the world. The initiative was established by HH Sheikha Hissa bint Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a breeder of Arabian horses, to provide alternative prospects for Purebred and Part-bred Arabians following successful racing and endurance careers. The Championship is awarded to the horse and rider combination accumulating the most points over the course of the show across the four disciplines of dressage, show jumping, arena eventing and sprint. HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended and graciously presented the prizes. Purebred Arabian Champion was awarded to Charlotte Kidd with RS Sahib and Reserve Champion to Emma Ganzarain riding Al Abjar Wrsan. Champion for the Part-bred Arabian class was Mohamed Saleh Algashwori riding Caeon from Boudheib Academy and Reserve Champion was Orlaith McLaughlin riding Perseverance Rumpi & Maksymilion Forta took part in the Open Class Dressage.
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Maksymilian Forta ridden by Emma Ganzarain
There was also special recognition of two riders, Almut Margret and Tyla Louise Murrell, who were awarded for personifying the values of the Arabian Sport Horse Championship Show. Talking about the Championship, HH Sheikha Hissa bint Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan explained: “There is a growing number of Arabian horses on the dressage and jumping scene across the UAE, which is very encouraging, and what we are building on with the Arabian Sport Horse Championship is the importance of having well-rounded competition horses, ones that are capable of rising to new challenges – which is what we saw at this year’s Championship. We had 28 rider and horse combinations take part on Saturday, of which 18 were vying for the title of Champion. We raised the bar from last year, moving from mostly Intro Dressage and 50-60cm jumping to this year’s Prelim Dressage and 65-85cm jumps, and riders responded and enjoyed the challenge and adventure.” “Arabian horses are special in so many ways, they’re a breed that evolved closely around people and that has given them greater intelligence than other breeds of horse. Historically most other breeds of horse will share some Arabian blood, most particularly cavalry horses across Europe and the US were crossed with Arabians to improve their stamina and endurance.
Above - Mohamed Saleh Algashwori riding Caeon
Mohamed Saleh Algaswori riding Caeon
Above - Orlaith McLaughlin riding Perseverance Rumpi In endurance riding the saying goes ‘to complete is to win’ and I do feel the same with the Championship: taking part and successfully completing the four disciplines while rigorous is also very rewarding, and the values you gain from conditioning your horse for competition, such as responsibility, compassion and patience, are wonderful auxiliary outcomes and is something that resonates deeply with the Boudheib Initiative for Endurance in its efforts to improve equine welfare.” The Championship Show is the first of its kind in the region. Held annually, it is supported by the Emirates Heritage Club and the Emirates Equestrian Federation. This year’s event had a new challenge to the jumping element, to jump out of the traditional arena and return over a brush fence through the beautiful Boudheib Arch much to the delight of spectators. Course builder Kieran Treacy also incorporated technical elements such as jumping into a chute between two fences at a corner of the arena. The events ambiance lent to a great mix of excitement and joy with children’s activities running over the course of the afternoon.
Partbred Arabian Champion Caeon ridden by Mohamed Saleh Algashwori
Dressage Anywhere filming technique
Dressage Anywhere For those not travelling with their horses to Europe this summer, or if you're not planning an extended break, the Dressage Anywhere series will see you through the competition drought of the next few months. Launched in 2010 Dressage Anywhere enables worldwide dressage training and competitions online. Members from more than 60 countries around the world use the app. Schedules include tests from the FEI, British Dressage (BD), The Pony Cub, BYRDS and RDA run to BD rules and are judged by one of the 40 BD List 1, 2 or FEI judges on the app's panel. How? Registration is free with test entry fees ranging from 55 AED to 85 AED. Two months of schedules are always available so there's plenty of planning and preparation time. Tests must be ridden in an arena marked to either 20x40m or 20x60m, depending on the test chosen and videoing must take place from the letter ‘C’. The videoed test can be uploaded in three different ways, and once judged entrants will receive an email with a link to down load their score sheet. For those choosing to compete, scores are posted on the live scoreboard and finalised within five days of the competition closing at the end of each month. If riding a training test, feedback and scores are shared only with the individual. One of the Dressage Anywhere founders Nereide Goodman played a big part in developing the sport in the UAE. As a visiting trainer and judge, Nereide could see the difficulties of only having a very short season to compete in. “I can remember when we were very excited to run a prelim class for just a few riders at Nad Al Sheba and then to be part of and actually winning the FEI Challenge one year. It is great now to see several good trainers and so many enthusiastic riders in so many different centres competing from novice right up to Prix St Georges.” In the seven years since it was set up, more than 7,500 dressage tests have been judged. The process has been refined and continues to evolve. Earlier this year some tests were split into junior and senior sections. The current schedule offers training classes perfect for practising a test ahead of a real event, or as a great feedback tool in the absence of an instructor during the summer. Competition classes are held all levels and ages. There are British Young Riders Dressage Scheme (BYRDS) tests that are judgedslightly differently, having no mark for paces. These tests are all about the rider and how through correct riding you can better influence your horse or pony. As always there are RDA tests, ex-racehorse tests (for raced or unraced horses that have been British-trained) and veteran only competitions, for horses aged 15 years and over. The Team Challenge (for three or more riders) and the Rider League, with prizes for the most points gained through the year, has competitors from all over the world including South Africa, Sudan, Norway, Sweden, USA, Romania and Australia.
In 2015, the UAE’s own Dubai Desert Everywhere Team based at Emirates Equestrian Centre won the Dressage Anywhere International Team League. Amanda Brewer, who last year was Dressage Anywhere's highest placed UAE-based rider, has been a part of the Dubai Desert Everywhere Team since the app started. Teams can have members across a variety of levels. Originally Amanda rode at preliminary with her young horse, she has since progressed to novice with her mare Cardette and PSG with Vitorioso, her beautiful stallion. “I love Dressage Anywhere - the feedback is so very encouraging," she said. "To be judged by the highest level of judges is great, as it is always super to have such experienced eyes on you. With Vitorioso I started off at medium level and each time I have wanted to go up a level I have always ridden it first in Dressage Anywhere competitions. It means I get some really helpful feedback and advice.” Dubai Desert Everywhere were team champions in 2015, and finished fifth from 21 teams last year. We wish them luck for the year ahead. Email: info@dressageanywhere.com Telephone: +44 7592 155374
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There are many retirement farms to choose from and prices and standards can, of course, vary so look carefully at what is on offer. There may be waiting lists so it's wise to investigate early. Some things to consider: Move during the summer so the weather adjustment is less severe Check the frequency and costs of rug changes, worming, feet trimming and dental visits Health checks from regular feet picking-out to periodic reports back to the owner Insurance for unplanned vet treatment Visiting agreement Nutritional supplements if required If you are placing your retired horse on pasture for the first time the introduction should be gradual. Ensure the retirement farm is willing to accommodate this. Retirement farms in Europe livery varies from around 1,250 aed per month. Equitrans Logistics estimate a cost of around 30k aed to ship a horse from Dubai to Europe, which is less than one year of full livery at one of our cities best stables. Ensure your documents are in order. Particularly if your horse has been bred in the UAE you may need to apply for an equine passport. Procedure to obtain an FEI Passport is available on the Emirates Equestrian Federation website www.emiratesequestrian.com/Veterinary Move to cheaper facilities within UAE If a retirement farm outside of the UAE isn’t feasible, farms further out of our cities are aplenty. Donate him Sometimes a therapeutic riding program or medical facility can use a horse that is reasonably sound, healthy, and has a good disposition. It is worth reaching out if funding retirement is a concern. Al Marmoom Initiative at Al Qudra, Dubai provide equine physical therapy with practical and vocational education to individuals with special needs. info@marmoom.net Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Dubai are based at Desert Palm and offer therapeutic riding for children with disabilities. manager@rdad.ae Sharjah Equine Hospital’s Breeding Centre may consider your mare at its embryo transfer unit. To find out more about their acceptance criteria, contact Mai Jahnig mai@seh.ae Be clear in the contract when handing over responsibility for the benefit of all parties such as who will accept the costs should your horse require a vet once they have been donated. To make sure nothing unacceptable befalls your horse after he's outlived his usefulness, find out what happens to horses they can no longer use and be sure it suits you, and/or make arrangements to take the horse back when service has ended. When retirement isn’t an option And if retirement wont suit your horse it is important to remember that euthanasia is not the worst possible outcome. Founded in 1985 by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) is a Government diagnostic centre that provides testing and research facilities to the UAE and neighbouring countries. Amongst their many services they provide individual pet cremation with ashes returned. The cost for an equine is from 2000 aed. Transportation and urn (which are available at CVRL) is extra. http://www.cvrl.ae/services.php
Much has been written lately about retirement in the equine world. These surround gold medal-winning Olympians Nick Skelton and his partner Big Star, pensions for our top equine athletes and more locally, what to do with your UAE-based horse when old age or injury affects their future. There's no point in keeping your horse in livery where the fee includes amenities that you’ll no longer be using. Leaving the horse standing in his stable for the remainder of his days is equally unfair. Finding a no-frills barn with plenty of turnout will not only save you money but can also benefit them physically, if managed correctly. Retirement Farms If the horse is declared fit to travel you could consider one of the many farms across Europe that are designed specifically for retired horses. The animals graze happily in groups, chosen to complement their temperaments and needs. Those that are prone to laminitis managed accordingly, with limited access to grazing.
Horse Retirement
Abu Dhabi Tina Al Qusabi’s Dhabian Equestrian at Rahba, Abu Dhabi began as a horse rescue operation and has developed into a riding and stable management education program which horses still able to be worked can be accommodated in. There are six turnout areas and stables with various cooling options depending on requirements. Livery starts at 1,500 aed per month. www.dhabianequi.com/ +971 (0) 50 662 0969
Move to cheaper facilities within UAE If a retirement farm outside of the UAE isn’t feasible, farms further out of our cities are aplenty. The Show Hub recommends the following:
Fujairah Sanne Udink’s farm oasis located in Al Bithnah, Fujairah has three meadows and currently three stables unoccupied. The stables have windows, a/c, fans and security, unsurprisingly there is some great hacking at the foot of the Fujariah mountains. The cost is 1800 aed per month including hay and turnout (excluding feed). There is a member of staff onsite at all times. sanne_udink@hotmail.com
Ras Al Khaimah Yasmin Sayyed Stable Manager at Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre in Ras Al Khaimah has two livery options available: a stable with a misting fan at 2,000 aed per month or stable with a/c for 2,500 aed per month. In the winter she likes the horses to be turned out 24/7. If your horse is not quite ready to retire fully, they are open to liveries earning their keep by being part of their riding school. www.facebook.com/alwadiequestrian/ +971 (0) 56 494 4392
Equine Education
Godolphin Flying Start Godolphin Flying Start is a two-year, full-time international management and leadership training programme for the Thoroughbred industry. Founded in 2003 it is the brainchild of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Twelve candidates are selected annually to receive the scholarship, which includes course fees, accommodation, transport, health insurance and a monthly allowance. Godolphin Flying Start is dedicated to recruiting the most talented people worldwide, and to give them professional training and experience unmatched by any other. In turn this aims to achieve Godolphin’s vision of producing committed industry leaders working in existing and emerging markets contributing to the long-term success of the Thoroughbred industry. Accredited by University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, Godolphin Flying Start has had many successful alumni. The blend of professional, personal and experiential learning in a Thoroughbred business environment across five countries is a model for success. To date there are 142 graduates of the programme, soon to be 152 when the 2015 – 2017 trainees graduate on June 30 2017. Application requirements: To be considered you will need to meet specific applicant criteria, beginning with one of the following: Level 8 Bachelors Degree. Minimum GPA 3.08 or 2.1 hons preferred and one to three years full time relevant Thoroughbred industry employment following graduation Level 7 Degree at honors level and three to five years full time relevant Thoroughbred industry employment following graduation* Level 6 Qualification at honors level and at least 10 years full time relevant Thoroughbred industry employment including positions of responsibility. For more information visit: www.godolphinflyingstart.com
With the news of the of the UAE’s first all-inclusive Equine College opening later this year, The Show Hub looks at equine education within the Emirates. This includes internationally recognised qualifications from as young as 14 years of age, right through to post-graduate level and, of course, some of the world’s best scholarship opportunities.
The British Horse Society The UK's largest and most influential equestrian charity, The British Horse Society, is an internationally recognised benchmark for horse care and teaching. The training adopts a progressive route through levels from beginner to world-class qualifications, which can begin as young as 14 years old, and will prepare anyone well for a career with horses. In order, the levels are: o Stage 1 o Riding and road safety o Stage 2 o Stage 3 o Preliminary teaching test o BHS assistant instructor o Stage 4 o Intermediate teaching test o BHS intermediate instructor o Stable managers o Senior equitation and coaching o BHS instructor o UKCC o Equine tourism - ride leader level 2 o Equine tourism - Ride leader level 3 o Equine tourism - riding holiday centre manager Where are they available? The examinations system is widely respected with 60 approved establishments worldwide. “All the centres in the UAE are able to offer training using an instructor who is qualified to teach however, only Al Forsan in Abu Dhabi have Stage 1 and 2 exams scheduled for October of 2018,” said Christine Doran, support manager in The British Horse Society approvals department. Al Forsan Riding Academy has been a BHS-approved centre since 2015, and it plans to have Stage 1 and Stage 2 exams in October. For more information from Al Forsan contact their equestrian department on +971 2 656 5641/42 or the BHS directly education@bhs.org.uk
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United Arab Emirates University The bachelor of veterinary medicine program is the only one of its kind in the UAE and open only to Emiratis. The programme lasts five years, and includes locally-focused courses such as training in camel and equine sport medicine and nutrition. For more information visit: www.uaeu.ac.ae
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and the 2015 – 2017 Godolphin Flying Start trainees
Register your interest
Al Adiyat College of Equine Studies Specialising in racecourse management, nutrition, animal science, veterinary medicine, accounting and economics, Al Adiyat will be based on the American University in the Emirates campus at Academic City. Prof. Muthanna G. Abdulrazzaq, chief executive and President of the AUE, is optimistic the college will offer its first set of courses by September 2017, which will be an exciting addition to education within the UAE and to the equine industry. The college, named after the word from the Qur’an meaning horse, will bridge the gap between theory and practical experience for those wishing to or already working with horses, an idea supported by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance. On 23rd March 2017 American University in the Emirates hosted The First International Equine Forum with the aim to learn from professionals in the industry about the degrees the college should offer. If you’d like to register interest, visit:
Facebook Video
Website
This scholarship initiative has been in place since December 2015, thanks to the generosity of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. It provides free, world-class veterinary education to capable Emirati students who meet the requirements set by the scholarship and the veterinary schools. The associated universities are recognised world leaders in veterinary education, research and practice, and include the Royal Veterinary College at University of London, University College Dublin, University of Glasgow School of Veterinary Medicine and The University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. For more information visit:
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Scholarship for Veterinary Medicine
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Externship at Dubai Equine Hospital This externship is open to veterinary students across the world either on their last year or about to start the last year of their veterinary medicine training. All must have a good level of English. The program is for the duration of 1 month with 12 extern ships annually the duties during the extern-ship depend on the time of year. The Dubai Equine Hospital is fully equipped with state-of- the-art diagnostic and surgical equipment. It features orthopedic and soft tissue operating rooms, clinical pathology laboratory, digital radiography, scintigraphy and MRI units, video-endoscopy, diagnostic ultrasound and Nd: YAG-laser. It has a total of 49 stables divided into ICU unit, quarantine, isolation and basic care. To find out more, or to apply,
Some of the best distance learning available from the UAE for when attending university is not an option…
www.ed.ac.uk
*Always check your qualifications are recognised in the country you wish to use them.
The University of Edinburgh The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies MSc/Dip/Cert equine science is intended for high-calibre students with a biological background. The distance learning equine science programme offers the opportunity to study for a postgraduate certificate, diploma or masters degree, part-time over a period of one to six years and makes use of the University’s award-winning online learning tools. This includes video podcasts, web-based discussion forums and expert tuition. For more information visit:
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www.toces.net
The Open College of Equine Studies The leading international equine distance learning college offers BHS or BTEC (The Business and Technology Education Council) courses as well as a diploma in Equine Physiotherapy, which qualifies successful graduates for registration onto the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP). For more information visit:
www.equinenursing.com
The Open College School of Equine Veterinary Nursing The TOCES recently-added Veterinary Nursing programme has a blended learning approach offering flexible study and the opportunity to earn while the student learns. “Subject to meeting approval criteria, international veterinary practices now have the opportunity to become an RCVS Approved Training Practice; which means that overseas students may now study for the City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Equine Pathway),” said a spokesman. For more information visit:
The General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare (GAYSW) is the United Arab Emirates' supreme state owned authority responsible for the welfare of youth and sports activities in the United Arab Emirates. The Sports Sector pays great attention to sports development in the region and ensures the government’s policy on competitive, recreational and traditional sports are implemented.
HH Sheikh Majid Al Qassimi HH Sheikh Ali Bin Abdulla Al Qassimi Abdulla Al Marri Nadia Taryam Mohammed Shafi Al Romethi Moftah Duhairi Khalil Ibrahim
Now in its seventh year of highlighting UAE athletes and partners in sporting achievements, the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare, in collaboration with the UAE Olympic Committee, have recognised a number of equestrians from the UAE Show Jumping scene. The appreciation ceremony held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the patronage of Sheikh Zayed Bin Mansour Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs celebrates achievers in the sports sector as pioneers who hoist the UAE flag over local, Arab, and international skies.
Top Riders & Judge in the UAE Awarded Sport Awards of Excellence 2017
His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan pictured giving award to H.E Major General Dr Ahmed Al Raisi
Farhang Sadeghi Future objective 2017/2018
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As managing director of two large riding clubs in Dubai and as one of the most successful show jumping riders in the country, Farhang Sedighi is looking forward to contributing to the development of this sport in the UAE next season. For the 2017/2018 season he has three main goals. First, to grow the membership at his riding clubs, particularly the newly opened Sustainable City Equestrian Club. As Dubai is steadily growing, the equestrian community will grow with it, which is why he has opened a state of the art first class riding school in Dubai Sustainable City. All of his twenty years’ experience in managing riding schools has given him the insight as to what type of horses, instructors and environment are best suited to allowing children to have an enjoyable experience that will encourage them to continue with the sport and hopefully choose to take it to the next level. Secondly, he plans to further develop his own personal riding career, by working with his young horses, sourcing new equine talent from Europe and procuring potential new sponsors. He hopes to grow on last season's success which had him winning a lot of national and international level competitions. Also he will work hard to better his career in the show jumping team, consisting of himself, his wife and his students. They have some very promising riders and he will do his best to help them realize their potential in this sport. His third goal is to expand the sport of show jumping in the UAE by hosting competitions at a new venue at Dubai Sustainable City Equestrian Club. He believes that many factors such as the location and the layout of the club itself will make it a very spectator friendly venue, which will prove to be exiting for the competitors as well as hopefully garner new show jumping enthusiasts from the public. Farhang is greatly looking forward to the growth and good times that he believes he UAE 2017/2018 show jumping season will bring himself and the equestrian community.
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Images by Stefano Grasso/LGCT
Winner of the Longines Global Champions Tour 2016, Rolf-Göran Bengtsson retired his top horse Casall ASK in May, after winning the grand prix at the Global Champions Tour of Hamburg. The pair took the overall LGCT title at Al Shaqab, Doha, in November, winning not only the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha, but also the overall title of the series, being named the 2016 LGCT Champion of Champions. But now the Swedish rider feels the time is right for the 18-year-old Caretino stallion Casall to be retired. Ahead of the season finale the pair had previously won in Valkenswaard and Paris on the 2016 renewal of the LGCT so enjoyed a stellar season. The Swede described the win as “a dream come true” and his horse as “just amazing”. Rolf-Göran and Casall had a magnificent pairing, which shone through in their competitions. The 11-year partnership was a popular one, and the pair bowed out in a fairytale situation on 27 May. “I would carry on if I could, but it can’t end any better — Casall really deserves it,” said the rider, who was claiming his tenth LGCT grand prix. "It can't be a better end, that's for sure. Today the feeling was the same as if he was 11 years old or 18 years old. The more public there is in the ring, the more he likes it even better. To make the retirement of a horse like Casall ASK and to pick the show at our home ground in front of his home crowd, is a dream come true and the horse more than deserves this and many will remember him for many years, including me.” Jan Tops, President of LGCT, and former trainer of Rolf, said: "Casall ASK is an amazing horse, they are an amazing couple. I have known Rolf for many years. This is great horsemanship. One of the things I really respect is the way the horse has been looked after. Ten years like that at this level is very rare and won't happen again.”
Casall ASK an epic farewell
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Rolf-Göran Bengtsson on Casall ASK ph.Stefano Grasso/LGCT
Olympic champions Nick Skelton and Big Star retired in an emotional ceremony at Royal Windsor Horse Show last month. The pair, who took individual gold at Rio 2016 were also part of the gold medal-winning British team at London 2012, and were a hugely popular pairing. Nick and his 14-year-old bay stallion formerly retired in May, in front of showjumping fans as well as The Queen. “Big Star is an absolutely amazing horse, I trust him, he wants to do it and for me he's the best horse I've ever had. We have been a great team, he understands me and I understand him we just get along really really well,” said Nick. The 58-year-old rider was saying farewell to an incredible career that has seen him represent his country on more that 170 Nations Cup teams, win the Hickstead Derby three times, take home ten European and six World Championship medals and a World Cup medal. His wins were made even more the amazing by the fact he fell and broke his neck in 2000 and was told he might not ride again. His determination proved strong though, and along with Big Star, he regained his place in the top echelons of the sport. “Back in 2000 when I had that accident surgeons told me I should never ride again, but after two years of not competing I was feeling lost and I didn’t know what to do so I got back riding again and lucky I did,” he said. "I have no regrets about it, when I think about what I have achieved it proves I made the right decision. “I have had quite a lot of time to think about it over the winter and it was a difficult decision to make as I have been riding all my life and competing for so many years, but at some point I have to stop. I will still be very much involved in the sport, just not at as a competitor and I will also be looking forward to the day when we can see some of Big Star’s progeny in the arena competing with the same enthusiasm as he did now that will be retiring to stud.”
Two Big Stars retire from the limelight
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Image courtesy of RIO OLYMPICS 2016/
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Images by Shamela Hanley
Riders and NFs earn points through participation, which count towards a global ranking for individuals and teams against other eligible countries. The invited judges this year were both from the UK. FEI four-star judge Clive Halsall was accompanied by top national judge Kirsty Mepham. Intermediate I, Prix St Georges, senior II, senior I, and the youth class (for riders aged 12-16) were represented. In addition to the individual classes there is a team challenge, for four riders per country. The top three scores are combined to make up the overall team percentage. The team with the highest combined score at the end of the year wins. The UAE previously held this team title in 2012. This year due to the climate and at the request of the riders, the organisers split the running of the competition over two days. After a successfully trot-up, where all horses passed, UAE rider Abdelaziz Ahli and his mount Sandy 9500 won the best presented award. Next came the senior I class. This had a total of nine riders and was the largest class of the event. With a solid test giving her a clear lead of almost 6%, Tracy Wyngard-Gill riding the Friesian mare Hylkje Fan De Finnen (Jasper x Wypke) won with a score of 71.17%. This was the highest score earned throughout the two-day event.
The UAE phase of the 2017 FEI World Dressage Challenge was hosted by Emirates Equestrian Centre (EEC) on the 20-21 April. The aim of the FEI’s ‘Dressage Challenge’ is to advance and evolve the progression of the discipline in countries that are still developing the sport. It offers the chance for National Federations (NFs) to nuture local talent, and enable them to take part in international competitions without having to travel.
Cristina Calin-Thompson riding Webster
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By Tracy Wyngard-Gill, images by Monica Pinheiro
FEI World Dressage Challenge 2017, UAE
Karmelia Greasley on Don Philippo, Lisande Eayrs on Hyperion and Chloe McDonald on Cantinero
Runner-up in the class was Lisande Eayrs and stallion Hyperion, securing 65.47%. Chloe McDonald was third on the elegant mare Con Rubina. Cristina Calin-Thompson was the sole rider representing the UAE in the intermediate I class, a level new to the Emirates Equestrian Federation circuit. Cristina did the UAE proud earning 65.33% on Reem Alabbar’s KWPN gelding Webster (Rhodium x Picasso). Cristina also represented the team on this horse. Day two kicked off early, allowing the competitors to miss the worst of the heat. The morning began with the senior II class. Susanna Foustok continued her season’s dominance at this level, winning the class on her stunning Hanoverian gelding Don Rodolfo (Don Frederico x Rotspon) with a score of 68.66%. Runner-up was Tracy Wyngard-Gill riding, the sometimes flamboyant gelding Calypso. They were followed into third place by Jenni Arala on her gelding Tristan. Second class of the morning was the Prix St Georges. Cristina Calin-Thompson stepped up again to win the class on Nova Kruijning’s KWPN gelding Apollo (San Remo x Jazz). They scored 64.47%. Runner-up was Amanda Brewer on her impressive Lusitano stallion Vitorioso, followed by new combination at this level, Nina Pilawa on Troy. The youth class consisted of five solid combinations, but the winning rider was the ever consistent Heidi Hallet on her spotted gelding Silver Merlin. The pair are a pleasure to watch, earning a decent score of 69.50%. In second place was Zac Scarr and the striking chestnut gelding Oldham Mill Dubloon, followed by Talia Khashoggi riding Tir Na Noig in third. Along with Cristina and Webster, the other combinations selected for the team classification were Susanna Foustok riding Don Rodolfo, along with Nina Pilawa riding Troy & Zac Scarr riding Oldham Mill Dubloon. After a great event, the UAE now waits with baited breath to see where the Emirates finish on the final tallies against the rest of the world at the end of the year.
Susanna Foustok and Don Rodolfo
Super result for UAE in Europe with Team FBH
FBH Stables Ali Bin Hamoodah took on his first-speed derby in Hamburg last weekend riding his super horse, the 11 year old gelding, Chin Chieno FBH. The pair had a fantastic time up against a string of international horses finishing in 2nd place. Abdulla Al Marri, onboard the 10 year old mare Sama Dubai FBH, blew everyone away with their rounds in Rome and La Baule. Al Marri now ranks 7th of the top GCC riders . Congratulations to FBH Stables on what has been an incredible start to the summer season. We look forward to what’s to come.
Passionate About Inspiring Others Before I could even walk I was riding, but I would say my passion for Dressage started around the age of 13. From a very young age I knew what I wanted to do with my life and even though the path hasn’t always been a straight forward one, that vision has never changed. Aged 16, I left school to work on a professional yard. The knowledge and experience I gained there was priceless, spurring me on to learn more and more. I was privileged to represent Team GB in Juniors and Young Riders, an experience I will never forget. With the support of my incredible parents I started working on our yard based in Ledbury around the age of 18. I was lucky enough to train with Charlotte Duajrdin for almost 3 years before I met my current trainer David Pincus. David has had, and continues to have, a huge impact on my knowledge and understanding of training horses. Teaching has always been a big part of my job, but I have decided to push it the extra bit more. I am now striving to help people see their full potential, really focusing in on positive mind set. I myself used to be a very negative person and, after hitting a low point in 2016, I decided to go and find the self-belief I was lacking. I can hands down say the changes in my whole life, not just my riding, have been dramatic and this is why I have set it as one of my life goals to help people find their self belief.
Getting to know Olivia Towers
Charlotte Kidd and RS Sahib Champion for the Purebred Arabian at The Sport Horse Championship in Abu Dhabi Charlotte Kidd talks to The Show Hub, following her success at the Arabian Sport Horse Championship. Charlotte Kidd and RS Sahib were the winners of the Championship for the Purebred Arabian class at the show in May. RS Sahib was bred by the late president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan’s Royal Stables in Abu Dhabi. Tell us a little about Sahib, Charlotte. “He’s a 15-year-old chestnut gelding who I have been leasing for the past eight months. Sahib’s owner is Sultan Al Quemzi, who owns Al Ruwayyah stables where he is kept. He came to Al Ruwayyah as an ex-endurance horse. He had some tendon injury and has since been rehabilitated and retrained into the successful eventer he is today, recently gaining second place in the novice class at Spinney’s Cup.” What’s he like as a horse? “Sahib has a very cheeky personality and likes to think he is the boss. He definitely lives up to his name, as Sahib means difficult in Arabic. He is totally aware of his good looks and is an absolute carrot monster, he will even bob for carrots in his water bucket. He is loved by everyone at Al Ruwayyah especially by his amazing groom Sameer.” How do you train him? “Sahib has been trained to ride and compete bit-less and is a very happy barefoot horse thanks to Jaime Leemer the stable manager at Al Ruwayyah, who promotes bit-less and barefoot throughout the UAE.” How did you start riding? “My passion for horses began at an early age and has always been a huge part of my life. I was eager to get back into the saddle when I moved to Dubai and with the help of a family friend I was introduced to Jaime at Al Ruwayyah where I met their handsome superstar Sahib.” What’s your path to eventing been like? I've found that once you have gained his trust he’s is very willing of any questions and challenges asked of him and this has been demonstrated through our first season together where I have introduced him to cross-country. We started off in the 40cm class at various hunter trials where he was quite spooky and unsure of the rustic jumps but as the season progressed I felt he gained my trust and became braver with everything I presented him with. “This is our first time competing at the Arabian Sport Horse Championship and he gave his absolute all to the competition. He excels in the showjumping and due to our persistence with his cross- country training he also powered through the arena eventing phase without any hesitation. What do you like about the Arabian Sport Horse Championships? “This event is a fantastic showcase for the Arabian horse and promotes the versatility of the breed, proving that they can be successfully reintroduced to other disciplines after their endurance and racing careers are over. I couldn't be prouder of him and what we have both achieved in our first season together, and I look forward to next seasons challenges and all it has to offer us.”
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with The Show Hub Team
Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament 2017 On the 11th June 2017, international show jumpers Salem Al Suwaidi, Ahmed Falaknaz, Abdulrahman Ameen & Ali Aljahouri took part in the fifth Nad Al Sheba (NAS) Ramadan Sports Festival 75km road cycling race. In a feat of physical and mental strength the UAE nationals showcased what it is to be all-round professional athletes. Ali had an exceptional race finishing 6th from over 240 entries with a time of 1:44:08. He was followed closely by Ahmed at 1:45:33 who having only joined the sport a little over 1 year ago made his first race a memorable one. Salem would have also finished in the front peloton had his tyre not punctured 15km from the finish line. With participants from over 50 countries and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, the Nad Al Sheba sports tournament has outdoor and indoor events running until 18th June for all levels of competitor. www.nasst.ae
Left to right - Ali Aljahouri, Ahmed Falaknaz and Salem Al Suwaidi
Anthony Rodia
The growth plate is effectively compressed on the same side that the extension is placed, slowing the growth on that side. Most commonly, products such as Equilox, a flexible resin that can be molded by hand and then hardens, can be used to create the extension. It is quick and easy to perform. Also on the way to help conservative therapy the vet is able to use different injections which will help and relax muscles and reduce pressure on tendons. Of course, other conservative treatment include management of the foals bodyweight weaning time and turn-out or exercise. These modifications can reduce the strain placed on the limb, allowing correction to be achieved naturally as the foal develops. Surgical Therapy Periosteal elevation (PE) - all bones are covered by a fibrous layer called the periosteum. This procedure involves making a small incision on the concave aspect of the relevant bone, incising the periosteum and elevating it away from the bone. This procedure speeds the rate of growth on the side of the limb which it is performed. Surgical Implants - the principle behind surgical implants placed through or across the relevant physis (growth plate) is simple and relies on mechanical restriction. The physis is bridged on the convex side of the deviated limb, compressing and inhibiting the cells of the physis, thereby arresting growth until the limb is straight, at which time the implant is removed. There are various types of implants and techniques used to achieve this growth arrest.
Foal Development ‘Angular and Rotational Deformities’ Flexural, angular and rotational deformities may be present at birth and can sometimes take several months of treatment to correct. The first 6 months of the foals’ life are a time of rapid development, during which a 60% increase in height after birth takes place. In these months deformities are often acquired as part of general syndrome of orthopaedic disease which also can include physitis and osteochondrosis. Definition: A varus deviation refers to a horse which is typically toed in (medial) and valgus deviations refers to a horse which is typically toed out (lateral). Deviations from the knee are the most common, followed by the fetlock and hock. Often more than 1 limb is involved. Congenital deviations can be due to underdeveloped bones and/or ligaments such as incompletely ossified tarsal bones. Treatment The treatment of the various forms of deviation differ for each horse depending on the different factors like the location of the deformity, age, severity, body type, risk factors and time. Conservative Therapy Farriery and Modifications - farriery is a simple non- evasive tool that can be used to treat angular limb deformities in foal of less than 6 months of age. Trimming - trimming of the hoof wall on the opposite side from which the axis needs to move can achieve slight corrections in conformation. Example (above images before and after) In Varus (toed-in) by trimming the inside (medial) hoof wall. By artificially extending the hoof wall on the side that the axis needs to be moved, this spreads the load the foot is supporting towards the extension, thereby forcing the limb in that direction to achieve an ideal conformation.
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FEI Clean Sport Database The purpose of this database is to help you identify prohibited substances under FEI regulations. Information such as a substance definition, common usage, and common trade names are available.
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Equine Veterinary Education provides practical educational articles on diagnosis and treatment for equine veterinary clinicians. Articles are also of interest to veterinary students and others with an involvement in the equine veterinary world.
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