Argentex Team Dubai dominate at Polo in the Park
The Show HuB Equestrian Issue 9 - August 2017 www.uaeshowhub.com
Pony Club Round-up
Al Shira'aa, Leading By Example
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.
est October 2014
www.uaeshowhub.com
Contents:
4-5
Chestertons Polo in the Park
6-9
Arabian Showing and UAE Show Schedule
10-13
Godolphin Flying Start Graduation 2017
14-15
Equine Motor Neuron Disease
16-21
Pony Club Season Round-up
22-25
Al Shira'aa
26-29
Royal Ascot 2017
30-31
Rider of the month - Hamad Al Kirbi
32-35
Toscana Endurance Lifestyle 2017
36
Dressage Champ, Mohammed Ahmed
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App of the Month
39
Scott Brash disqualification
40
Olivia Towers Training Clinic
42-43
Anthony Rhodia Farrier Services - Laminitis
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Classifieds
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 August 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 9th 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
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
Cover Image - Hamad Al Kirbi with Calvaro's Star by Helen Cruden
Argentex Team Dubai dominates at Chestertons Polo in the Park 2017 The sun shone on what was an exhilarating final of Chestertons Polo in the Park in the grounds of Hurlingham Park in London on 11 June. Argentex Team Dubai, made up of Alejandro Muzzio, Juan Cruz Merlos and led by George Spencer-Churchill, Marquess of Blandford, dominated over Team Zurich for much of the match. Within barely a minute of play, both teams were on the scoreboard and by the end of the first chukka each team had doubled their scores to 2-2. Argentex Team Dubai really piled on the pressure in the second chukka, notching an additional four goals to take a 6-2 lead. During the third chukka Team Zurich almost caught up, but as the final chukka played out the ferocious defending of Argentex Team Dubai kept them at bay. The well-fought final score 7-6 to Argentex Team Dubai, securing their title as 2017 Chestertons Polo in the Park Champions. Image credit to www.polopeopleplaces.com
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Arabian Horse Showing
Showing Classes Arabian Showing celebrates the beauty, agility and heritage of the Arabian horse. Only registered horses are able to compete. Each year 10 events across the UAE are open to national and international competitors in a challenge for world titles. Depending on the size and prestige of the event, the show schedule will include qualifying classes based on age and sex followed by a championship. There is a class specifically for UAE-bred Arabians to encourage the breeding of Arabians within the UAE. Entries are judged standing on all four feet, as well as walking and trotting in a controlled and natural manner. Handlers are not judged but must be neatly dressed at all times while in the show ring. When the International Arabian Scoring System is used a score of 1-20 (half points permissible) are awarded for each entry in the following five categories: (1) Arabian Type (2) Head & Neck (3) Body & Topline (4) Feet & Legs (5) Movement. The first and second placed horses from each qualifying class are eligible to compete in championships. Champions are awarded to gold, silver and bronze winners. The UAE Arabian showing season begins in November and runs through until March. Entry for spectators is free of charge at every event however pre-registration may be required.
Meticulous care is taken to keep the bloodlines of Arabian horses 100 percent pure. No horse with any blood of another breed can be registered as an Arabian, no matter how small the dilution. World Arabian Horse Organisation (WAHO) Founded in 1970, the World Arabian Horse Organization (WAHO) is a registered charity with its headquarters in the UK. It aims to protect the integrity of the world’s Arabian studbooks and facilitates biennially conferences, inviting international experts and encouraging debates and discussions on the history, genetics, and sports centred around the breed. Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS) The UAE participated in its first WAHO conference in 1986. The same year, the stables of HH Sheikh Zayed became an individual associate member of the organisation. Committed to maintaining the glory of the breed, HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahayan initiated the registration of all purebred Arabian horses in the UAE, establishing the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS). In 1989 EAHS released the first book of the origins of UAE horses, a copy of which was presented to WAHO. By 1990 the UAE was granted a full member of the organisation, since then the UAE has never been absent from the international field, taking all steps for improving the status of the Arabian horse. Image : Sh-hab of Al Hawajer Stud
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UAE Arabian Horse Show Schedule 2017-18
Image: Sh-hab Al Hawajer
Gregor Aymar - Eyecatcher Advertising
Date
Show
15/09/2017
Flat Race Auction
02-04/11/2017
The 14th Sharjah Arabian Horse Festival (Straight Egyptian)
03/11/2017
Sharjah Arabian Horse Auction
09-12/11/2017
Emirates Arabian Horse Breeders Championship
07-09/12/2017
The 14th Sharjah Arabian Horse Festival (Local Bred)
14-18/12/2017
Fujairah Arabian Horse Show
03/01/2018
Ajman Arabian Show Horse Auction
04–06/01/2018
Ajman Arabian Horse Show
18–23/01/2018
UAE National Championship
09/02/2018
Abu Dhabi Arabian Show Horse Auction
10–14 /02/2018
Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Championship
01–03/03/2018
The 19th Sharjah International Arabian Horse Festival
15–17/03/2018
Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship
27–29/03/2018
EAHS National Championship
30/03/2018
Clodagh Kavanagh addresses those in attendance
Clodagh explained that the graduates of the program are working towards forming an alumni association and that Flying Start will continue to run Professional Development conferences. She congratulated the class of trainees on their achievements during the course.
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The 2017 Flying Start graduation ceremony took place in the beautiful Cape Cross centre at Kildangan Stud in Ireland on the evening of Friday, July 30th. Invited guests included the parents of the graduating class, Godolphin and Darley management and thoroughbred industry leaders who have supported the Flying Start trainees throughout their two years on the programme. 100 people gathered for the formal ceremony including family and friends of the graduating trainees, Godolphin Flying Start alumni and industry leaders including Irish Turf Club Senior Steward Meta Osborne, Goffs CEO Henry Beeby, Bloodstock Agent Mick Flanagan, Consignor Michael Buckley, Andrew Chesser, USA Jockey Club, Christy Grassick, Coolmore, Chris and Annie Richardson, Cheveley Park Stud, Leo Powell, Irish Field and new Irish National Stud CEO Cathal Beale Clodagh opened proceedings by warmly welcoming guests and trainees families from as far away as China, Spain and Lexington. She spoke about how Sheikh Mohammed had the vision to create Flying Start and the fact that there were now 152 graduates of the program. She complimented her team of coordinators who work to implement Flying Start. She described the increased emphasis on innovation, technology and creativity as part of the course content in the past year. Clodagh also spoke about the quality of academia, horsemanship and personal development required to complete the program. Her role in maintaining relationships with thoroughbred industry leaders, alumni and leaders in education is key to maintaining the quality of the course she said.
Godolphin CEO, Joe Osborne, was then called on to speak. He described the friendships and team spirit among the graduating class and his message to the trainees for the future was to “Inspire Others”. Director of Executive Development at University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, Lorraine Heffernan, then spoke about the academic standard of the program, and the standing that UCD and its’ graduates had achieved. The UCD Michael Smurfit Business School holds accreditations from the three leading accreditation authorities and they are only one of approximately 100 business schools worldwide to hold the triple crown of accreditation. Moreover, the School’s programmes are consistently ranked highly, as they are the only Business School in Ireland ranked in the Financial Times rankings of Business Schools. She said the most critical signal of quality is the quality of the graduates, the nature of the impact they make on the organisations they work for, the organisations they create and the wider world around them. She encouraged the graduating class to develop a passion for contribution, for hard work and for life-long learning and development. Lorraine thanked Clodagh Kavanagh for her commitment to the program and to working with UCD.
Michael Smith, Hannah Marks, Alayna Cullen, Mary Ellet, Carrie Hu, Trish Bowman, Jackson Buchanon, Lauren De Arias Huep, Britney Dixon, Conrad Bandoroff
Top trainee Michael Smith with Hugh Anderson
Godolphin UK and Godolphin Flying Start Director Hugh Anderson was then called to address the audience and present the Diplomas to the 10 trainees. Hugh drew comparisons to his own education and training in the navy and as a barrister with the experience gained on Flying Start. Nine of the graduating class received a merit award and Michael Smith from California received a huge round of applause as the top trainee of 2017, having completed the program with a Distinction award. New graduates Jackson Buchanon and Lauren De Arias Huep then thanked the guests and Godolphin Flying Start management of behalf of their class mates before calling Clodagh Kavanagh, Joe Osborne and Martin Larkin to the stage to receive gifts from the trainees. For further information on the Godolphin Flying Start Programme visit www.godolphinflyingstart.com.
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Tests Testing for EMND includes a complete physical and neurological examination as well as full blood work and serum biochemistry to help to rule out other potential causes of the non-specific clinical signs. Blood is also collected for measurement of vitamin E levels in the body. Vitamin E supplementation is often initiated prior to receiving those results, based on your veterinarian’s clinical impression. It may take a week to have measurements and vitamin E can be beneficial for supportive care in many neurologic diseases. Muscle and nerve biopsy can offer more supportive evidence for diagnosis, but is not necessary in all cases. Vitamin E supplementation is the main treatment and has been shown to stop the progression of the disease and result in improvement of clinical signs. As with many problems, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” because once damage is done to the motor neurons in the spinal cord and brain stem it is not fully reversible. Although vitmin E deficiency probably isn’t the whole story of what causes EMND, and research is still being done to learn more about the disease, vitamin E is certainly the most significant factor that has been identified to date. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, which protects the nerves from oxidative stress that breaks them down. It is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning there must be fat in the diet for it to be absorbed. Fresh pasture grass is the best source of natural vitamin E and is more readily absorbed by the gut than synthetic vitamin E. Unfortunately, since that isn’t generally an option for us in the UAE, supplementation with commercially available vitamin E feed additives is often necessary, if it is not already provided in their hay and grain or pelleted feeds.
Equine Motor Neuron Disease and Vitamin E Supplementation Generally seen in horses with no access to pasture, a challenge we face living in the desert, Equine Motor Neuron Disease (EMND) is a degenerative disease strongly associated with an inadequate amount of vitamin E in the diet. EMND affects the motor neurons of adult horses, the intricate web of nerves that send information back and forth from the legs to the spinal cord and brain, telling the muscles when to contract so the legs can move in a coordinated fashion. Signs The most common signs of EMND are weakness, fatigue, weight loss (in spite of a good appetite), laying down often instead of standing and muscle tremors or fasciculation. Vets often describe horses suffering from EMND as appearing to “walk more normally than they stand” because of the different types of nerves and muscles involved in standing versus moving. The disease affects the “postural anti-gravity” nerves and muscles before it affects those used for movement and locomotion. Weight loss occurs due to muscle wasting when the damaged nerves fail to stimulate the muscles normally. The most commonly known similar motor neuron disease in humans is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease. The Greek origins of the word “amyotrophic” (“a” meaning “no,” “myo” meaning “muscle,” and “trophic” meaning “food or nourishment”) give the general explanation of the disease – “no nourishment for the muscle” causing it to waste away. In horses with EMND, unlike ALS in humans, there is no known genetic inheritance.
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Supplementation When looking for vitamin E products, natural vitamin E (which should be listed on the label as “d-alpha tocopherol” or “RRR-α-tocopherol”) should be chosen over synthetic vitamin E (which will be listed as “dl-alpha-tocopherol” or “all-rac-α-tocopherol acetate” or “vitamin E supplement”). The amount of vitamin E supplementation your horse needs depends on the amount already supplied in their regular feed as well as their activity level. Commercial products will usually have feeding instructions written on their label based on a maintenance level of 1,000 to 2,000 IU per day for an average horse, or up to 3,000 to 5,000 IU per day for a horse in intense training. As always, if your horse is exhibiting unusual signs please discuss them with your veterinarian and have your horse thoroughly examined. Many signs are frustratingly non-specific and exercise intolerance can be caused by multiple different problems, so we hope to work as a team with owners, trainers, farriers, and physiotherapists to help your horse perform at its best. We are here to help in any way we can, and to try to help you correct problems for your horse before they progress, if possible. This cause has been detected within UAE and increasing in numbers.
Caitlin O'shea - Sharjah Equine Hospital
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Lea Eltibi, Gabrielle Inglis and Bianca Holland all passed their Road Rider Test
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Emily Peck with pony Jerry in C+ Test
Emily Peck with Jerry in the C+ test
UAE Pony Club Season Round-up “Pony Club members aged seven to 16 years old have been busy with rallies, training and progressively working through the Pony Club syllabus and tests” said Lorraine Jackson, liaison between PCUK and the three main Pony Clubs in Dubai as she proudly shares their success from the past riding season. And Lorraine has every right to be proud; two members have recently passed some of the higher-level tests that the Pony Club offers. Maxine Antaki has become the first Pony Club member in the UAE to achieve the B Test - Riding. “We are all extremely proud of Maxine and are delighted that her commitment and hard work over the past seven years of being a Desert Palm Pony Club member has taken her to this level,” said Lorraine. There was also Emily Peck, who with her own pony Jerry, passed her full C+ Test, which incorporates riding along with horse and pony care. Visiting examiners were renowned instructor and List 5 British Dressage Judge Hilary Wakefield from the UK. From Bahrain, Rosemary Clarke was in attendance. Rosemary sits on the Pony Club committee for centre membership, which covers the UK and international clubs, as well as supporting centres across the UAE that wish to set up a Pony Club. Talking about UAE Pony Clubs, Rosemary said: "This season has been amazing. Every single member received badges, progressive awards or achievement tests.” An impressive eight members successfully passed their full D+ Test, which judges both their riding and stable management skills.
Maxine Antaki passed her B Test
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www.pcuk.org
They were: Eissa Al Mulla, Darcy Fehnert, Sasha Day, Yasmine Ellis, Jannah Sallam, Grace Connor, Claudine Antaki and Fatima Intan Al Mulla. Dubai Pony Club's Lea Eltibi, Gabrielle Inglis and Bianca Holland all passed their Road Rider Test. And when the members were not being tested they were having heaps of fun providing a display at an International Show Jumping competition, or like members Maxine Antaki, Emily Peck and Mia Smith taking part in pony racing at the Endurance Festival. But the highlight of their year is undoubtedly Pony Club Camp where members stay for two nights at the stables looking after the ponies (and themselves), enjoying games and midnight feasts. Everyone had a fantastic time and returned home very tired, but laden with rosettes. Above: Pony Racers Maxine Antaki, Emily Peck and Mia Smith Right: Eissa Al Mulla, Darcy Fehnert, Sasha Day, Yasmine Ellis, Jannah Sallam, Grace Connor, Claudine Antaki and Fatima Intan Al Mulla with Katharine Cook (Desert Palm Yard Manager and PC Organiser) who all passed their Full D+ Test.
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Membership The cost of membership to Pony Clubs in the UAE varies between each equestrian centre. All members receive a Pony Club membership card produced at the UK Head Office with their unique membership number. All tests and awarded badges are recorded in the central database, so if a member moves to a new country this information moves with them.
Al Habtoor Pony Club Contact details and how to sign up? Visit or call Al Habtoor's Club House at the Al Habtoor Polo Club and Resort on 056 520 5081. When the club meets? Fortnightly. Wednesday evening for the older groups and Friday afternoon for the younger groups Anything you would like to add? “Pony club is twice a month and runs on Wednesday evening for the two older groups and Friday afternoon for the smaller group for children on the lead-rein who are learning to canter. Our Pony Club is open to Al Habtoor regular riders and to outside riders who want to bring their own horse. "Next season we will be keeping Pony Club fun and interactive with gymkhana games and competitions, beach rides and our Al Habtoor Pony Club Camp. "It’s all about encouraging kids to get involved and learn while having fun.”
Desert Palm Pony Club Contact details and how to sign up? Call Desert Palm Equestrian Club on 050 451 7773 When the club meets? Meets are once a month, on a Friday. Anything you would like to add? “Desert Palm Pony Club returns from September 2017 with monthly Friday rallies for members with and without their own horses. We are very happy to welcome members who keep their horses elsewhere. "New for 2017 is the additional Junior Pony Club for riders aged ten and under. Providing a varied programme of Pony Club activities including camp, stable management, competitions, badges and tests. Members are guaranteed to have lots of fun and learn the 'hands-on' skills required to care for horses and ponies. "Our team of qualified and experienced instructors look forward to seeing Desert Palm Pony Club members grow in confidence and skill throughout the coming season, with the additional social benefits of being in the Pony Club and creating lifelong memories. Come in and find out more – there's a discount scheme for signing up early.”
Above picture: Below picture:
Dubai Pony Club Contact details and how to sign up? Based at Emirates Equestrian Centre, the Pony Club contact is Jennifer Forde Tel: 971 50 5587656 or +971 50 5537986 When the club meets? We have four groups, depending on age and experience, each group meets once every two weeks. Anything you would like to add? “Our Pony Club is open to regular riders at EEC. We split the Pony Club members into four groups depending on experience and age. Thelwells - for the youngest riders on and just off the lead-rein. Blue Group - for off the lead-rein riders and those starting to canter. Green Group – riders confidently cantering and beginning to jump. Red Group – riders confident cantering, riding in open spaces, jumping a course of show jumps and dressage. Each group meets once every two weeks for two hours. One hour is spent riding and one hour is dedicated to stable management. From the beginning of next season the Thelwells, Blue and Red Groups will be meeting on a Thursday afternoon and the Green Group will be meeting on a Sunday afternoon. Our season's calendar includes special days organised for Pony Club competitions, training for tests and badges, and fun trips away from the stables.”
Al Shira’aa, Leading By Example
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Highlights of the inaugural 2017 Al Shira’aa International CSI4* Horse Show in Abu Dhabi
Al Shira’aa,uniting people from different communities and cultures through friendship, dialogue and mutual respect, for the love of equestrian sport. Al Shira’aa Stables LLC was founded by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ambassador for cultural development in the UAE and passionate promoter of equestrian sports. Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan chairs the Board of Directors of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy (FBMA), which empowers Emirati women and encourages their participation in sports at all levels. Al Shira’aa Stables have a worldwide presence with five-star facilities in both the UAE and UK. In January, the Al Shira’aa International CSI4* Horse Show hosted at Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, offered UAE and international riders the opportunity to qualify for the 2018 World Equestrian Games. The second edition has been confirmed for 10-13 January 2018. Earlier this month the most iconic show jumping classes in the world took place with Al Shira’aa as headline sponsor. The Hickstead Derby at the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, West Sussex was first held in 1961. It is an iconic event that attracts the biggest of names from around the show jumping world and this year took place on Sunday 25 June.
The formidable 1,195m Hickstead Derby course consisting of 28 fences of natural obstacles, including ditches, banks and open water does not suit all horses, the famous Derby Bank in particular. The grassy bank begins with 1.04m rails on top followed by a 3.2m decent with imposing 1.6m white rails just two strides from the base. This year's event was won by up-and-coming British rider Nigel Coupe, who was part of the British Nations Cup team competing in Al Ain in February. He was riding Golvers Hill. The closest UAE finisher was Hamad Ali Al Kirbi and Calvaro's Star in 17th. Read more on our riders success at Al Shira’aa Hickstead and from across Europe later in the magazine.
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Queen Anne Stakes Group 1 winner, Ribchester
DAY 2: After day one not getting off to a surprisingly good start for trainer Aidan O’Brien, it was Highland Reel, the 5-year-old son of Galileo that put the strong firm back on track. Highland Reel took the Prince of Wales Stakes Group 1 with Ryan Moore in flying form and has now earnt the operation £5.9 million in prize money. It is surprising to understand that Highland Reel has made more prize money than any other horse has for Aidan O’Brien! Unfortunately, Highland Reel has not been given given enough credit where credit is due. Highland Reel has had Group 1 successes all over the world from America, Hong Kong and even placed second in last year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Aidan stated that it was his courageous attributes from his father Galileo that makes him so special. Excitement roared on the day when 25-1 shot Zhui Feng a 4-year-old by Invincible Spirit and Martin Dwyer won the Royal Hunt Cup Group 3 for female trainer Amanda Perret in a highly competitive race made up of 29 runners. Dwyer, gleaming with delight described the horse as a star. Qemah, the French trained filly by Danehill Dancer was the Qatar teams’ banker for Royal Ascot 2017. Trained by J-C Rouget, Qemah was last year’s Coronation Stakes winner (Group 1). This year the 5-2 favourite bounced back to form and won impressively in the Duke of Cambridge Stakes Group 2 with her usual pilot, Gregory Benoist. As of now it is not confirmed what her plans are, but we look forward to potentially spotting her in races such as the Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes, Gr. 1, Leopardstown in September for fillies and mares. A
Royal Ascot 2017 brought stunning weather, unforgettable outfits and memorable racing, including eight Group 1’s. Below I recap the greatest moments over the four days of racing which took place between the 20th and 24th June 2017.
DAY 1: Of all the days in racing, it was a sweltering one. It was definitely a day where the female race felt slightly sorry for the men in their morning suits, rather than the usual, men feeling sorry for women as we fall out the gates after standing in heels for over six hours, instead the ladies had never been so happy to stand in their frocks all day! With temperatures reaching over 30 degrees it was no wonder why racing turned heads of so many race goers, with horses such as Rajasinge (11-1) and Sound and Silence (16-1) claiming victory and beating talented favourites. As always on day one, the crowds roared as the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh entered the paddock in their carriage, followed by other royals such as Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge. However, something about this entrance was different, and beautiful. A minutes’ silence was held for the horrific terrorist attacks that had taken place in such a short period of time in the United Kingdom. The racing community stood together in silence and, if a penny were to of dropped you would have heard it, it was utterly moving and extremely heart-warming. They say the Melbourne Cup is a race which stops a nation but Royal Ascot proved stronger then terrorism which is just what our country needed after such a traumatic time. Godolphin were the highlight of day one, finishing up with 3 winners out of 6 races. It was an extremely fruitful case where ‘outside trainers’ of Godolphin such as; Richard Hannon and Richard Fahey were successful with their horses. Ribchester won impressively with jockey William Buick in the Queen Anne Stakes Group 1, Barney Roy bounced back after an unfair run the Guineas to prove to everyone just how well he had matured and defeated odds on favourite Churchill (Aidan O’Brien) with jockey James Doyle, winning the St James’s Palace Stakes Group 1, and home team trainer Charlie Appleby landed the last race of the day with a thrilling finish where both home team jockeys James Doyle and William Buick finished first and second punching it out over the line.
Barney Roy winner of the St James’s Palace Stakes Group 1
Royal Ascot 2017 The year of the Big Orange by Samantha Kettle
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The unbeaten Caravaggio
DAY 3: Apart from all the fantastic racing on Day 3, there was only one race that touched everyone’s hearts and had the rest of the week at Royal Ascot talking. It was one of the biggest highlights of the week, an unforgettable day, an incredible horse with the heart of lion, It was BIG ORANGE and it was the Gold Cup Group 1. Owned by the UNEX group, trained by Michael Bell and ridden by James Doyle as a last minute substitute due to Frankie Dettori developing an injury, it was more than a family affair, there was a huge team behind the horse. The Gredley family got behind their much loved pride and joy to cheer him on in what looked to be a tough race with the likes of Order of St George competing alongside him. From the main owner of the Unex Group, Bill Gredley (who provides so much for the sport), to Michael Bell’s brother commentating Big Orange home, to Ollie Bell, ITV presenter running onto the track to push him past the winning post, it’s safe to say there were a few tears shed and few hats thrown into the air! Tactics during the race were nail biting, James piloted Big Orange up front, leading the pack, after a few furlongs he was slightly challenged and Big Orange still pulled to be in front, James didn’t interfere. After taking instructions and advice from Frankie Dettori it was clear the horse did not require any interference, so James let Big do what he wanted and let him gallop on in front. At this point turning into the home straight there were a few of us worried. Order of St George, favourite of the race and one of Aidan O’Briens threats was still yet to come up and Big orange had lead them the entire time. About 2 furlongs out Big look like he had it in the bag, but then Ryan Moore headed James and they battled it out the only thing that kept Big Orange going was his heart and his determination to win by a nose. James, having so much faith in the horse didn’t question the photo finish, standing up and celebrating straight away. James said ‘I knew, I just knew, Order of St George was never going to get to us, he wouldn’t have let that happen!’ It was a race never to be forgotten, crowds roared with the thrill of the finish. Bookies delighted after odds on favourite Order of St George was beaten, and connections were gleaming and extremely emotional. Big Orange has provided the Gredley family with some fantastic experiences of international racing. With more still left in the tank for the six-year-old he is set to run a big race at Glorious Goodwood in the Qatar Goodwood Cup Stakes, Gr.1 on the 1st August 2017.
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DAYS 4 & 5: The Friday of Royal Ascot brought trainer Aidan O’Brien another exciting prospect, this was Caravaggio. The appealing son of Scat Daddy, who was currently unbeaten in all his five starts won the Commonwealth Cup (a sprint race) strikingly, leaving Godolphin to claim second and third with the likes of Harry Angel in second. To add to Ryan Moore’s winning streak, the other Group 1 on the day was claimed by his dual classic winning partner, Winter. The odds on favourite grey Galileo filly stood out in the parade ring prior to the race, gleaming with confidence, and maturity, and later proved this on the track when winning the Coronation Stakes, Gr.1 by two and some quarter lengths. Once again leaving her stable partner Roly Poly in second and other stable companion Hydrangea in third, giving trainer Aidan O’Brian excitingly, a 1-2-3 in the Group 1 race. The final day of Royal Ascot is made up with a few exhausted faces on the track, these being employees, trainers, owners and jockeys. But as always it ends on an exceptional high. To finalise an epics week of racing we experienced an incredible sprint race where trainer James Fanshawe landed the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, Group 1 with The Tin Man. In an exhilarating finish with sprinters Limato and Tasleet, The Tin Man fought it out to give jockey Tom Queally his first Group 1 winner this year and provide the yard with theirs. James Fanshawe stated that he was rather surprised by his win as he hadn’t been showing a lot of potential in his work at home, thankfully for them he pulled it out of the bag! Photos courtesy of Keith Holland
Hamad al Kirbi with Calvaro's Star Image credit to Helen Cruden
There have been many highlights during the UAE Show Jumpers time in Europe this summer. One of the proudest moments was undoubtedly watching Hamad Al Kirby ride into the world famous Hickstead arena to take part in the Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby. The Hickstead Derby has been one of the premier events in the equestrian calendar since 1961 and is known globally for its formidable derby bank which has been ridden in spectacular style by some of Show Jumping’s elites. Hamad Al Kirby rode Calvaro’s Star becoming the first UAE rider to qualify for and complete the world famous Hickstead Derby. What makes this even more remarkable is that his horse has only competed at the 1.45 CSI4* level previously. Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Al Nayhan added, “Hamad jumped and finished the big derby on a horse that had only CSI4* experience and it was a dream that he qualified alone, but he finished the course when so many experienced derby riders falter.” Hamad trained for a month with William Funnel prior to the event and the team hope that next year they will be more prepared for the Derby. We wish this team continued success. Our riders are certainly flying the UAE flag at superb heights this summer in Europe. For more information on the Al Shira'aa team and their accomplishments this season please go to: www.alshiraastables.com
Hamad Al Kirbi The first UAE rider to qualify for, and complete, the world famous Hickstead Derby
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Click above for the full results of the 2017 Toscana Endurance Lifestyle
A total of six competitions were held for the Italian leg of the HH Endurance Cup Festival, with record entries expected from top international pairings from across the world. Teams competed in the CEI 3*, CEI 2* and CEI 2* UAE brought home many placing in the top 3. Alongside the HH Endurance Cup Festival San Rossore will also host the test event for next year’s FEI European Championships for Junior and Young Riders, on 15 July. Latar in August the venue will host the Italian under-14 championship, and a series of international competitions including a CEI 2*, CEIYJ 2*, and CEI 2* Ladies over 120km, and the CEI 1* across 81km.
There was a record of half a million Euros prize-pool at the Meydan-sponsored Italian leg of the HH Endurance Cup Festival this month. The Toscana Endurance Lifestyle takes place at San Rossore Estate and Racetrack, with the highlight of the first meeting being the Italian round of the HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup Festival. Azizi Developments, a major Dubai-based real estate developer and Pillar Partners of the Dubai World Cup, will also be sponsored the Toscana Endurance Lifestyle, as part of its partnership with Meydan that extends to international events. A key objective of the festival was to consolidate and boost sporting, social and economic ties between Italy and the UAE.
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Toscana Endurance Lifestyle 2017 14 - 16 July UAE Results
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Alia Ahmed Mohd AL SABOORI
DAY 1 CEI2* Ladies: WINNER: Alia Ahmad Mohd Al Saboori (EAU) on Za'Amah, 2° Alyazia Khalid Khalifa Al Romaithi (UAE) on Qued El Kebir Larzac CEIY WINNER: Salim Said Al Owais (UAE) on Amandinne a 28,779 km/h, 2° Saeed Salen Atiq Khamis (UAE) on Adadja de Bozouls 3° Shaheen Yayhya Shaheen Khalfan Almazrouei on Aloha False Affair After second loop of the three races of Toscana Endurance Lifestyle. CEI2* Ladies: 1° Alia Ahmad Mohd Al Saboori (UAE) on Za'Amah, CEIY2* WINNER: Shaheen Yayhya Shaheen Khalfan Almazrouei on Aloha False Affair, 2° Salim Said Al Owais (UAE) on Amandinne 3° Hamdan Ahmad Mohd Al Marri (UAE) on Vishkra Jais
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CEI3* 2nd place: Hamad Obaid Rashed Al Kaabi (UAE) on Siam du Barthas 3° :Salim Said Al Owais (UAE) on Castelbar Corsar CEI2* 120 km WINNER: Mansour Saeed Mohd Al Faresi (UAE) on Magic Glenn Italia (average speed 26,705 km/h), 2° : Abdulla Ghanim Al Marri (UAE) on Chanah 3° : Ghanim Said Salim Al Owaisi (UAE) on Dji'nha de Fignols CEI3* WINNER: Hamad Obaid Rashed Al Kaabi (UAE) on Siam Du Barthas (average speed 21,795), 2° Saif Ahmed Al Mazroui (UAE) on Ramaah CEI2* WINNER: Saeed Ahmad Rashed Abdulla Al Shamsi (UAE) on Rabdan (average speed 26,200), 2°Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum (UAE) on Intisaar 3° Mansour Saeed Mohd Al Faresi (UAE) on Magic Glenn Tayla
Hamdan Ahmad Mohd AL MARRI with Vishkra Jais
In cooperation with and supervised by the FEI, SAP SE has created the ultimate fan engagement tool, a Spectator Judging App. The app has been available for use at over 30 worldwide events so far this year, the next being CHIO Aachen 15th – 23rd July 2017 with more being added every month. “Spectator Judging enables fans to get in the judges’ seat and create audience scores and rankings in real-time during the competition” SAP’s website states. Choose between one of the following modes Full mode – full movement by movement scoring Short mode – shortened test sheet 1-mode – single end result Young horses-mode – three marks for the gait, one for the submission and one for the perspective
22nd July. During the summer dressage series at Oldencraig Mohammed Ahmed and his Midnight Tolando rode their first Medium Advanced test and scored 73.2%, their highest score to date. It is no surprise to see how far they have progressed in recent months. Since 2016 Mohammed and Dan have been based at Oldencraig Equestran Centre (Surrey, UK) which, for 13 years running, has been voted ‘Top Show Centre’ by British Dressage. Oldencraig owner Vicki Thompson-Winfield has competed in the Olympics, European Championships and was one of the highest placed riders at Aachen. Mohammed’s trainer, Shaun O’Sullivan, is on the Oldencraig team of advanced riders and must be credited for the maturity seen in Dan today. Mohammed and Dan are clearly in the right place to have their full potential realised with great training transferring into great results in the competition arena.
Spectator Judging
Dressage Champ
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Top riders call for change Top riders have called for change to the FEI blood rule, after Olympic gold medallist Scott Brash was disqualified from a Longines Global Champions League competition in Portugal. Traces of blood were found on the side of Scott's mount, 11-year-old chestnut gelding Hello Forever. The Scottish rider had just jumped a clear round in the event, claiming a team victory for Miami Glory, before the FEI made the decision. A small amount of blood was found on the horse’s flank by an FEI steward. Longines Global Champions Tour founder, and former Olympic showjumper Jan Tops, called for a rule change. “It’s a rule, but it’s a rule the FEI have to change. I know how much Scott looks after his horses, how great he is with his team of horses and he didn’t deserve that.” The FEI defended the decision. A statement read “Disqualification under this rule does not imply there was any intent to injure the horse, but the rule is there to protect horses in FEI events. “There is no doubt the FEI officials at Cascais handled the situation correctly, and acted in full accordance with the FEI Jumping rules.”
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Training and Clinics I am a certified UKCC Level 2 Coach and have been teaching for six years across different ages, levels, and disciplines up to PSG. I spent 5 years being trained by World Champion Dressage Rider and Olympic Gold Medalist, Charlotte Dujardin CBE and I am currently training with renowned dressage trainer, David Pincus. I look to help build your confidence and understanding to achieve the horses full potential and your goals as a rider. UK lessons are held in our 20x60 indoor school at our yard based in Ledbury, but I also travel to teach. Enjoy the yard tour and meeting all the horses. www.oliviatowersdressage.com
Treatment A farrier and vet must work together. Here’s what you can do: 1. X-rays (check pedal bone situation and sole). 2. Get a proper treatment plan with your vet and farrier. 3. Make up a deep bed of sand or shavings, which helps to mold into the hoof and goes around the frog to provide support. 4. Manage weight and carefully decide what to feed your horse. 5. Ice the legs to reduce inflammation and pulse 6. With a farrier mechanical stabalisation is a primary treatment, with the goal being realignment of the bones (especially pedal bone) to reduce pressure. Once the distal bone rotates it is essential to aim to re-establish its proper orientation within the hoof capsule. With correct trimming, and if necessary, the application of orthopedics shoes. All shoes with pressure on the frog help to reduce pressure on wall and deep flexor, such as; heart bar shoes, reverse shoes, silicone. 7. Aggressive and extreme therapies: dorsal hoof wall resection, coronary grooving, deep flexor tenotomy. 8. Exclusive “blood booster”. The blood booster is a new treatment via new kind of shoe you can add on existing shoes. It increases blood circulation on the foot and the leg of a horse allowing the anteroposterior movement on static (based on the research of the American Ric Redden). Nicolas Guilliot (French) found a very easy and effective way to use the method. www.blood-booster.fr Complications Laminitis includes recurrent hoof abscesses, which are sometimes secondary to pedal osteitis and fracture of the coffin bone. The procedure is lengthy. The farrier and vet will have to check the horse frequently over three and four weeks.
Shoeing
In extreme cases of laminitis, the blood flow to the hoof is very poor causing additional problems. In the above case a large abscess
The Heart Bar Shoe - is designed to put pressure on the frog, releasing the pressure on the Wall of the hoof.
Laminitic Horse
Laminitis is a very painful and potentially crippling disease that can be fatal to horses, if left untreated. Laminitis occurs when the attachment of the pedal bone to the hoof wall starts to fail. This leads to the pedal bone rotating and eventually pointing towards the sole. Sometimes it can even go through the sole. Causes of laminitis There are several causes of the condition. High intake of soluble carbohydrates (sugar) This can be due to feeding your horse too much food that contains high sugar or too much cereal. Consult an equine nutritionist if in doubt. High levels of insulin are believed to be linked to the condition, caused by glucose entering the blood stream from the small intestine. Stress Factors such as a dramatic change in environment and frequent travelling can add towards this, especially in overweight animals. Mares can also be at greater risk after foaling, due to additional physical stress on the body. Stress can also be caused by extremely cold water or excess heat, a change in stabling or paddock environment or a change in feeding or routine. Obesity This is a common cause, especially in non-competition horses. When the horse is eating more calories than it can burn off it can quickly put on weight. This means that there is more weight to carry, causing extra pressure. Concussion If a horse has been worked fast and for a prolonged period of time on a hard surface, it can affect the laminae. Signs of laminitis Acute Usually very sudden and severe. The horse will show an inability or reluctance to walk or move and may possibly lie down, displaying an unwillingness to get up. The horse will have a digital pulse and have very hot feet. The sole will be sore and sensitive to pressure. Chronic A horse with chronic laminitis will show signs that are generally relapse from previous attacks.
Anthony Rodia Laminitis
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