Vets collaborate to improve long-distance horse transport

Transcription

1 BEF News archive (January May 2011) Vets collaborate to improve long-distance horse transport 5th January 2011 Vets attending the first veterinary-led European Equine Transport Forum, held in Brussels on 29th November 2010, have agreed that their profession needs to take a leading role to help enforce the current Regulation governing the long-distance transport of horses, in order for equine welfare standards to be improved. In support, the BEVA Trust has announced the introduction of the BEVA Trust Equine Transport Enforcement Award of 1000, to be given annually to the individual or group of individuals working in the field, doing the most to improve enforcement of the current transport Regulation. The Forum was initiated by BEVA President Madeleine Campbell in conjunction with the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) and is sponsored by the BEVA Trust and World Horse Welfare. It attracted representatives from 38 nations; including a strong turnout from Eastern Europe where horses sourced for slaughter often start their journeys and Italy which is the end destination for the majority of these horses. The plight of horses sourced for slaughter was the main focus for discussion and the key issues raised for immediate address were: The practical enforcement of the current Regulation at the beginning, middle and end of journeys Consistent enforcement of the current Regulation across all Member States That horses transported for slaughter should receive the same regard for their welfare as competition and leisure horses The lack of adequate assessments of fitness to travel, leading to diseased horses being transported greatly increasing the risk of transmitting infectious diseases across Europe. These non-compliant shipments should be tackled through robust and thorough veterinary examination at each stage of the journey, coupled with rigorous identification procedures for every horse to ensure traceability. Delegates also examined the long-term need to change the attitude of Italian consumers, raising awareness of the current welfare issues related to their preference for fresh meat, labelled as Italian produce. In addition they discussed the impact on equine welfare of increased profits in sourcing horses in Eastern Europe and then transporting them long distances for slaughter. Dr Madeleine Campbell reported: "The atmosphere throughout the day was one of collaboration and determination to succeed. Proper enforcement of the current Regulation is the key to welfare improvements, as is the need for a system of best practice to drive a change in cultural attitudes about how horse meat is produced. A process of education is necessary so that consumers understand the welfare issues associated with long-distance transport and start demanding accurate information about where the meat which they are buying originally came from, and how far the horses travelled to slaughter. We are all in agreement that vets have a pivotal role to play in both education and enforcement, and that they want to play it." Jo White, Director of Campaigns at World Horse Welfare welcomed this event: "This was a fantastic opportunity to examine the major welfare challenges relating to long-distance transportation of horses. The veterinary profession has a pivotal role to play in safeguarding the welfare of all horses transported, whether to slaughter or for other reasons. Through carrying out thorough assessments of fitness to travel and supporting colleagues faced with difficult decisions, vets can fulfil their role of protecting horses from unnecessary suffering. World Horse Welfare has been campaigning on this issue for over eight decades; we strongly believe that the best way to ensure a long-term difference for the horse is by working in partnership. This event has provided a valuable opportunity to do just that." Professor Sandy Love, BEVA Trust Chairman concluded: "The Equine Transport Forum and the BEVA Trust Equine Transport Enforcement Award are both practical tools with which to address some of the major equine welfare issues of our time. The BEVA Trust is proud to support both of these worthy projects."nominations for the annual BEVA Trust Equine Transport Enforcement Award are open and can be made via the FVE and the BEVA Trust. The award will be judged by the FVE Working Group on Transport, and will be awarded for the first time in November The

2 programme, abstracts and presentations from the Forum can be found at: Patrick Print FBHS appointed OBE in New Year Honours List 5th January 2011 The British Horse Society today extended its warm congratulations to former Chairman Patrick Print FBHS on the news that he had been appointed OBE for services to equestrianism. Current Chairman Dr Phil Wadey said: "The roll of Patrick's predecessors as chairmen contains many distinguished names, each of whom led the Society through the particular challenges of their time. However, the breadth and depth of the changes over which Patrick presided will undoubtedly mark him out to future generations as one of the most influential and effective chairmen in our history. This public recognition of his services, not just to the BHS but to the whole of equestrianism, is highly merited." BHS Chief Executive Graham Cory said: "Patrick presided over the Society during a period of substantial growth in membership, a thorough reappraisal of its vision and purpose, and a modernisation of its image and attitudes. He has that happy blend of clarity of purpose, breadth of knowledge and natural diplomacy which made him the ideal chairman. What is more, his genuine respect and admiration for staff and volunteers alike was fully reciprocated." 2011 sees an Easter Badminton 6th January 2011 The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials will run over the Easter Holidays, from Thursday April 21st to the climax on Easter Monday, April 25. The first day, Thursday, will be devoted to the Mitsubishi Motors Grassroots Championships, the national final of a series for amateur or 'weekend' riders, following the huge success of the first Championships in The shops will be open for this extra day and the International cross country course can be walked by spectators, who may also witness the Horse Inspection for the main event in front of Badminton House late in the afternoon. Car Parking charges will be the only cost on this day (other of course than the money spent in the 250 plus trade stands!) as personal admission charges will be waived. Set in the Duke of Beaufort's Gloucestershire park, the world's top international equestrian competition will start with Dressage on Good Friday and it will be taking place during the school holidays for the first time in over twenty years, which is sure to swell the attendance of younger enthusiasts at this traditionally family friendly sporting weekend.

3 Eighty of the top horse and rider combinations from around the world will contest this ultimate challenge, encompassing the delicacy of Dressage, the bravery of Cross Country on Easter Sunday and the final test of nerve and horsemanship in the Showjumping. Many of these top athletes, both equine and human, will have their sights set on the autumn European Championships at Luhmuhlen, Germany, but the prospect of the London Olympics 2012 at Greenwich looms large for all whose squad building plans are already underway. As always, a top placing at Badminton makes it almost impossible for national selectors from any country to leave a rider out of their national team. Event Director and course designer Hugh Thomas said, "The sport has expanded enormously over the last twenty years and we expect a very international field again in With Easter being as late as it ever can be, it is almost certainly a one off running over the Easter weekend, which is traditionally a great one for sport, so we look forward to being a part of it." Every year Badminton adopts one special Charity and for 2011 it will be Cancer Research UK, who will have a Cross Country obstacle in their honour and will have many volunteers and staff at the Event for their fund raising activities. The Box Office opens for public booking on Monday 10th January and while telephone ( ) and postal applications (Horse Trials Office, Badminton, GL9 1DF) are very acceptable the quickest and easiest booking method nowadays is definitely via Badminton's website on British Eventing announce New BE Chairman 10th January 2011 We are extremely pleased to announce that the BE Board have elected Amanda Ratcliffe as Chairman of the Board of British Eventing. Amanda previously served as a co-opted Board Director from 2007 to 2008 and was re-elected in November Amanda has enormous experience in Eventing having competed for fifteen years from BE90 levels up to CCI4* level. Alongside having her children and Eventing, she set up and ran her own Market Research and PR Company which she ran successfully for four years. The company gained contracts covering a wealth of businesses from Government sponsored training and enterprise councils to start-up companies and small businesses. Amanda then went on to join her husband in a management buy-out of a division of BP in They made the decision to float the company 18 months later, and by 1998 the company had increased its value to fifteen times its original value. In addition to the qualities that her experience as an Event rider and businesswoman bring to the position, Amanda also has recently completed a degree in Psychology and Philosophy.

4 Amanda ran a strong campaign for a position on the BE Board in the run-up to the recent BE AGM and Board Elections (November 2010) with much support from the ERA (Event Riders Association). Amanda said of the importance of the BE Board: "I have always seen the duty of Board Directors to protect the interest not only of competitors but to seek consensus between stakeholders, including organisers, owners, volunteers and employees. "It is a great honour to be elected Chairman within a sport which I have gained so much from as an amateur rider, and I really look forward to giving something back. "I believe that my previous experience on the Board, plus my perspective as an Event rider in addition to my business experience will be of great benefit to the company and the sport in this country. Blockbuster Stallion Event 11th January 2011 The line up of sires for the British Bred Sport Horse's (BBSH) Stallion Event on 29 January reads like the cast list of a blockbuster movie! If you are thinking of breeding a foal in 2010 you might like to go along to Hartpury College between 2pm and 10pm to view a spectacular audio visual display of the very best of licenced stallions available to British breeders. Over 60 sires will be presenting from dressage horses, to showjumpers to eventers and, for the first time ever, endurance horse sires. There will be something for everyone with the stallions themselves, gala displays and demos as well. For a full list of entries click here. Tickets are 8 on the door to include a colour programme and a free prize draw ticket so you have the chance of winning a great prize as well! We hope to see all our friends again at Hartpury! Spectacular Awards Evening Rewards British Breeders 11th January 2011 The 16th annual Breeders Awards Dinner on Saturday 8 January yielded more high profile British bred wins than ever! With presentations made by BEF to the breeders of WEG medal winning horses Cool Mountain, WH Bentley, Academy Award, Teddy and Purdy's Dream alongside the breeders of the up and coming British bred sport horses recognised by their respective disciplines British Showjumping, British Eventing and British Dressage. The next generation in the form of the Baileys Horse Feeds/BEF Futurity winners for 2010 (including top sire Grafenstolz and top dam Katinka) were presented with awards or certificates of merit and looking to the future, Horse and Hound's Outstanding Mare Award was made to UK Hanoverians' St Pr Welunjia on the basis of her progeny performance record. Caesar 171, the recipient of the Sports Pony Studbook Society's performance and breeding award recognises that Britain is a frontrunner in the production of performance ponies for young riders. The South Essex Insurance Brokers and Retraining of Racehorses Elite Performance Awards celebrate the many retrained racehorses who go on

5 to have successful high level careers following the racetrack - demonstrated by high achieving eventing performers Danaan Prince and Alligator Alley. The pinnacle of the evening, the Equestrian Edge Meritoire for an outstanding contribution to British breeding went to Henk Minderman, the man behind Renkum Stud and the Anglo European Studbook who has brought a British studbook into the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses top 10 rankings twice during The full list of the Award winners are as follows: Baileys Horse Feeds/BEF Futurity Certificates of Merit - Sponsored by Baileys Horse Feeds Presented by Jane Buchan, Marketing Manager Certificate Name Studbook Top Dressage Foal Lord Farquhar KWPN Sarah Tyler-Evans Top Eventing Foal Tregorran SHB(GB) Top Endurance Foal Muromets Akhal-Teke Christina Anderson Top Sports Pony Foal SOS What Apricot Wants SPSS Georgia Stokes Top Showjumping Yearling Chicago's Dylan SHB(GB) Corrienne Hall Top Eventing Yearling Dovevale Regal Dove SHB(GB) Desmond Morris Top Endurance Yearling Peponi AHS Chris Wray Top Sports Pony Yearling Bathleyhills Monet ZfDP/SPSS Penny Walster Top Showjumping Two Year Old Kasabian AES Miles Pearson Top Dressage Two Year Old Diamond Lil BHHS Olivia Voce Top Endurance Two Year Old Ashsham Amir AHS Mark King Top Sports Pony Two Year Old Abbeywoods Chocolate Brownie CHAPS Mr S Wilson Top Showjumping Three Year Old Hartpury Sky Is The Limit SHB(GB) Hartpury College Top Eventing Three Year Old Catherston Caractacus SHB(GB) Mr & Mrs W Murray Top Endurance Three Year Old Seren Procyon AHS Ms Jan Varty & Mr Dominick Atkinson Top Sports Pony Three Year Old Rosewater Breant SPSS Sarah Eberle Top Dressage Sire Dimaggio Top Showjumping Sire Lauriston Top Endurance Sire Krayaan Dilmun Top Sports Pony Sire Bernwode Brokat Top Showjumping Dam Carnaval Delight Top Eventing Dam Bold Dove Top Sports Pony Dam Mona

6 Baileys Horse Feeds/BEF Futurity Awards - Sponsored by Baileys Horse Feeds Presented by Jane Buchan, Marketing Manager Foal Award - Classictop Lancelot (AES) s: Lauriston d: Renkum Meranta (s: Renkum Lancelot) Breeder and Owner - Jane Townshend Yearling Award - Hammerwood Roulette (WBB (UK)) s: Rhondeo d: De-Lite (s: Dimaggio) Breeder and Owner - Pippa Drew 2 Year Old Award - May Be Valentine (AES) s: Renkum Valentino d: Velea (s: Niveau) Breeder and Owner - Sally Davey 3 Year Old Award - Premier Royal Mint (OLD) s: Royal Hit d: Oleander (s: Ilmeo) Breeder - Mr Johnson / Owner - Ami McLean Stallion Award - Grafenstolz (TRAK) s: Polarion d: St Pr St Gipsy Lady (s: Camelot) Breeder - Gestut Heinen-Bonninghardt / Owner - The Stallion Company Mare Award - Katinka (KWPN) s: Rossini d: Violetta (s: Le Val Blanc XX) Breeder - J van Tilburg Thijs / Owner - Sarah Tyler Evans British Eventing Young Horse Awards - Sponsored by British Eventing Presented by Vincent Jones, Chairman of BE Breeding Panel 4 Year Old Award - Rowley Farm Houdini (SHB (GB)) s: Primmores Pioneer d: Just Sapphire (s: Sportsnight) Breeder and Owner - Mrs Susan Kerfoot 5 Year Old Award - Mister Maccondy (SHB (GB)) s: Accondy d: Matilda (s: Lord David S) Breeder and Owner - Mrs Ann Lawson 7 Year Old Award - Borough Penny Z (AES) s: Cevin Z d: Sovereign Flight (s: Dutch Gold) Breeder and Owner - Mrs Sally Bullen British Dressage Young Horse Awards - Sponsored by British Dressage Presented by Amanda Bond, BD Chief Executive 4 Year Old Award - Woodlander Farouche (BHHS) s: First Heinrich d: Woodlander Dornroschen (s: Caprimond) Breeder - Woodlander Stud/Lynne Crowden / Owner - Lynne Crowden/Woodlander Stud

7 5 Year Old Award - Retro Hit (OLD) s: Royal Hit d: Calibra (s: Cardinar) Breeder - Dan Henson / Owner - Mrs K Byron 6 Year Old Award - Don Archie (BHHS) s: Dimaggio d: St Pr Lorena (s: Lysander) Breeder - Suzanne Lavandera / Owner - Carl Hester/Ann Cory British Showjumping Young Horse Awards - Sponsored by British Showjumping Presented by Justine Naylor, British Showjumping Director of Sport 5 Year Old Award - Billy Manhattan (AES) s: Cevin Z d: Amantico (s: Amanti) Breeder - Donal Barnwell / Owner - Billy Stud 6 Year Old Award - Strijder (AES) s: Shearwater Olivier d: Jacaranda (s: Emilion) Breeder - Georgie Crumley / Owner - Kevin Crumley 7 Year Old Award - Billy Angelo (KWPN) s: Tangelo van de Zuuthoeve d: Siena (s: Kroongraaf ) Breeder - James Fisher / Owner - Mrs Julie Slade Sports Pony Studbook Society Performance and Breeding Award Sponsored by Sports Pony Studbook Society - Presented by Sarah Steggall, Founder Director Caesar (Weser Ems/DRP) s: Condor d: Dina H (s: Askan) Breeder - Benno Stolle / Owner - Beverley and Sam Brown SEIB and RoR Elite Performance Awards. Sponsored by - South Essex Insurance Brokers and Retraining of Racehorses. Presented by David Buckton, Associate Director, SEIB (ROR & SEIB joint awards presented by David Buckton associate director SEIB and former jockey Mick Fitzgerald on behalf of RoR. SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Champtionshop HOYS - Blue Java s: Bluegrass Price d: Java Bay, Owner - Tim Billington / Rider - Sonia Fitch-Peyton Tattersalls Thoroughbred Show Horse Championship Hickstead - Chivola s: Invincible Spirit d: Boudica, Owner - Beth Smart / Rider - Victoria Smart SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Dressage Awards 1st Place - Theme Park s: Classic Clichà d: Arcady, Owner - David Trott and Derek Frankland / Rider - David Trott Precedent d: Pumpona, Owner and Rider - Ann Bostock

8 SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Endurance Awards 1st Place - Aprilâ s Comait s: Comaite d: Sweet Caroline, Owner and Rider - Val Cammock SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Endurance Awards 2nd Place - Monkey Boy s: Mazaad d: Zaretta, Owner and Rider - Sue Henry SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Showjumping Newcomers Award - Zolushka s: Russian Revival d: Persian Myth, Owner and Rider - Emily Morris SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Eventing Awards 1st Place - Danaan Prince s: Danehill Dancer d: Classic Queen, Owner - Sue Brendish / Rider - Sam Griffiths SEIB & RoR Elite Performance Eventing Awards 2nd Place - Alligator Alley s: Roselier d: Ballyhoura Lady, Owner and Rider - Matthew Heath British Equestrian Federation announces new Board Members The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has announced three new board members to sit on its Board of Directors. The positions for Marketing and Communications, Participation and the London 2012 Equestrian Legacy were appointed during the last quarter. The new appointments aim to help lead the BEF to the 2012 Olympics and beyond. BEF Chief Executive Andrew Finding comments: "It is excellent to have the new directors in place in the lead up to the 2012 Olympics as the Federation focuses on further growth in participation and in achieving more medal success. With our member bodies, we are aiming to capture the public's imagination and support whilst ensuring our world class athletes can concentrate on achieving medal success." The three appointments are as follows: Nicki Kavanagh: Marketing and Communications Nicki's business expertise lies in change management, marketing communication and leadership development. As Managing Director of The Juniper Company, a specialist change, people development and communications consultancy, her style is very much hands on. This has enabled her to help

9 organisations develop the commercial, strategic, communication and leadership skills needed to succeed in highly competitive environments. Nicki has worked in change management and marketing communications at senior level for 20 years and holds a BA in Business Administration, Advertising Design and Marketing. Nicki comments: "This is a fantastic opportunity. I look forward to drawing on my industry background and skills and combining them with my passion for all things equestrian." Beth Maloney: Participation Beth has worked at board level in the further education and commercial sector and has a background in the equine industry. She is Assistant Principal at Oaklands College in Hertfordshire and runs Horses for Courses - a private equine distance learning organisation. Beth has also successfully developed a curriculum that aims to increase the number of equine students and develops work placements with employers to maximise funding potential. Beth Comments: "I believe raising participation is key to ensuring British equestrianism has a bright future. With London 2012 fast approaching, it is more crucial than ever to raise the profile of equestrianism and for the industry to gain benefit from the interest these games will generate and the legacy they leave behind". Tracy Wood: London 2012 Equestrian Legacy Tracy's expertise is in the professional services industry helping a wide range of companies and individuals reach their goals. She is currently a Partner at Ernst and Young and sits on the board of its UK and Ireland tax practice with the responsibility for the creation and implementation of its people strategy. Tracy's distinguished career has earned her the title of one of Management Today's 'Top 35 Women under ' and was appointed Ernst and Young youngest ever partner. A member of British Eventing, British Dressage and British Showjumping as an owner and a rider, she has a very strong equestrian background. Tracy comments: "I am passionate about being instrumental to setting the strategic direction of a business and helping it get there, and I am fascinated about how much horses can teach us. The opportunity to combine this knowledge with my enthusiasm for horses to make London 2012 and its equestrian legacy a success would be too good to miss."

10 The Pony Club Annual Instructors Conferences 17th January 2010 The Pony Club has set the dates at three venues across the country for its 2011 Instructor Conferences, generously supported by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers: Wednesday 2nd March: Merrist Wood Arena, Guildford, Surrey (EVENING ONLY) Wednesday 16th March: Bishop Burton College EC, Beverley, East Yorkshire Wednesday 30th March: Lluest Equine Centre, Llanbadarn Campus, Aberystwyth University The hot topic for the year is Show Jumping, and with this in mind Pony Club is delighted to announce that Yogi Breisner MBE FBHS will be the guest speaker. Working across the theme of correctly walking and riding a course, Yogi will be working with two groups of Pony Club riders during the Conferences, firstly coaching the inexperienced horse and rider, before moving to the more experienced riders at Pony Club Intermediate and Open level. With Pony Club Endurance, sponsored by Dengie, growing in popularity there will also be a demonstration of an Endurance Ride, split across three sessions: 1) An introduction to Endurance Riding, as a discipline and what's involved 2) Riders being sent off on a mock 'ride' out and back, demonstrating processes during a ride such as vet gates 3) Riders continue on and complete their ride showing how to care for ponies after a ride. So from just 10 make sure you book your place to experience expert advice from the British Chef d''equipe and Performance Manager, and learn all about Endurance Riding! All three conferences also count as Pony Club Instructor CPD refreshers for accreditation (log books will be available on the day for new Instructors). The Bishop Burton and Lluest Equine Centre venues will also count as CPD refreshers for registered BHS Instructors. Further details and application form are available on the Training pages of Levy Board Launches New Online Codes of Practice The Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) today launched a new online version of the Codes of Practice on equine diseases, ready for the 2011 Thoroughbred breeding season. The website, codes is a replica of the 2011 booklet with an easy to use navigator and full text searching capabilities. It will be viewable in all web browsers.

11 The 2011 online Codes of Practice set out minimum recommendations for the prevention and control of disease. Applying to all breeds of horse and pony, and to both natural mating and AI, the Codes cover: Contagious equine metritis (CEM) Equine viral arteritis (EVA) Equine herpesvirus (EHV) Equine coital exanthema (ECE) Equine infectious anaemia (EIA) Guidelines on strangles The increasing mobility of horses creates a subsequent increased risk of spreading infectious disease. In recent years, most countries with active horse populations have seen incidents of these diseases, including in Britain the notifiable diseases of CEM, EIA and EVA. Any of these diseases can have serious consequences for horse and pony breeding, compromising welfare, disrupting breeding activity and causing economic loss and distress. Professor Willie Donachie, Chairman of the HBLB's Veterinary Advisory Committee said; "We recognise the changing ways in which vets, studs and individual breeder's access information. The new online version of the Codes is designed to reflect this and ensure that the Codes of Practice, a vital resource, are available where and when they are needed." Emile Faurie Foundation becomes an Independent Partner of the BHS 1st February 2011 The Emile Faurie Foundation has become an "Independent Partner" of The British Horse Society. BHS Chairman Dr Phil Wadey said: "The Trustees are very pleased indeed that the highly respected Emile Faurie Foundation has become our latest Independent Partner. The Foundation's aim - to show children how enjoyable and fulfilling equine sports and careers can be, and to help them follow their dreams whilst developing personal and social skills along the way - is one with which the BHS associates itself closely." Emile Faurie said: "I am delighted that the Emile Faurie Foundation has become an Independent Partner of the BHS. The Foundationâ s aim of providing opportunities for disadvantaged young people to experience the joy of horses through riding and horse care aligns perfectly with the aims of the BHS.

12 Working together we will be able to achieve more than either can alone." This form of affiliation was created to enable the Society and smaller independent equestrian organisations whose aims and objectives are complementary to affirm publicly the confidence and high regard each has for the other, whilst also enabling the independent partner to benefit from the strengths (commercial and otherwise) of the BHS. The arrangement does not affect the autonomy of the Independent Partner, over which the BHS gains no control or influence. Dr Wadey said "The BHS is fortunate in that we have resources which we can share with organisations whose aims are consistent with our own and whose capacity to make the most of their potential could be enhanced by co-operation. "We want every equestrian organisation whose stance on equine welfare, training, safety and access is compatible with our own to succeed. If we can help them do so we will be helping to promote the wider good of all horses and equestrians." Turning to the general principles of the scheme, under which the absolute autonomy of the Society's Independent Partners is not compromised, Dr Wadey acknowledged the prospect of occasional differences of view. "Difference lends spice to life and we would never put pressure on Independent Partners to toe the BHS line. There will always be scope for debate, and even disagreement, when matters of judgement and perspective are concerned. As always, the key questions will be: "Is the welfare of the horse protected?" "Is the method proposed safe for riders?" and "Are the end results acceptable, both ethically and in terms of the horse's performance?" So as the number of Independent Partners grows, so too will the likelihood of differences of view. That does not worry me in the slightest." Inspirational speakers give the London Horse Network coaching insights 1st February 2011 A training forum, supported by the British Equestrian Federation's HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project, gave the London Horse Network an opportunity to understand the complex and powerful role of the riding instructor as coach, trainer and mentor. Andrew MacFarlane offered a unique view, having experience of many different teaching styles as he learns to ride himself and in his experiences as a coach, particularly when using horses at liberty to encourage team building, harmony and leadership in the corporate workplace through his company Lead Change. Inviting participants, who ranged from newly qualified instructors to equestrian centre managers, to first

13 identify the perceptions and pressures, motivations and challenges faced by riders of all levels and to identifying their different learning styles, Andrew then moved on to applying this understanding to help coaches become more effective. After considering the psychological aspects behind coaching, Minette Rice Edwards, trainer at the ABRSapproved Ham House Stables, Richmond, offered an insight into coaching from a more physiological standpoint. Taking the seat, the torso, alignment, feel and awareness as five indicators in riding effectively, she also ran through a physical 'imagery' checklist to encourage a balanced position. The combination of these two excellent speakers, identifying how the coach can influence the rider and how the rider can influence the horse, was inspiring. Although the main feature of the day, which was kindly hosted by Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre; volunteer chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile, also used the occasion to canvas opinion from members as to their priorities for the Network and encouraged feedback as to how the Network could come together to improve training provision and standards. Vice-Chairman of the Greater London region of the British Horse Society, Janet Coe, outlined the anticipated provision of amateur and professional training awards to be made available from the British Horse Society to riders at London equestrian centres. Jodie Maile, who took over the chair in the summer of 2010 said, "It was great to have the BHS able to give the London Centres the heads up on these awards and an example of how these Network meetings can get people together. Already existing members have found freelance instructors to hay suppliers through the network and it is exciting to see the Network develop to suit the aims of those involved." In line with the concerns raised during this latest workshop with regard to employment law, health and safety and child protection considerations, HOOF Ride London has also offered to help support a legal workshop. London Representative of the BEF, David Gadsby explained; "The Network is very much run by its members, for its members and it was great that Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre volunteered to act as host for the training day", adding, "Supporting the London Horse Network fits well with our Olympic legacy project aims, HOOF Ride London, as the tools and skills developed by the Network members today can be shared among them and spread." If you are a rider, horse owner, trainer, equestrian centre or other equestrian enthusiast and would like to

14 join the London Horse Network, or offer your expertise towards developing equestrianism in London, please contact Jodie Maile on or Tel For more information on the BEF HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project, visit British Equestrian Federation Announces New Member Bodies 1st February 2011 The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has today announced that two organisations will be joining the 16 independent equestrian member bodies that are already part of the BEF. The British Grooms Association (BGA) and The Showing Council will work closely with the BEF to co-ordinate policy on a wide range of issues. Chair of the BEF Council, Jane Holderness-Roddam commented on the announcement; "I am delighted that these two organisations have joined us and look forward to working with them both closely in the future". BEF Chairman, Keith Taylor commented; "To welcome two prestigious organisations, in the BGA and The Showing Council, into the BEF is wonderful for the equestrian industry. The knowledge and experience they both bring adds breadth and depth to the Federation, they are a very welcome addition". The two new member bodies are as follows: British Grooms Association The BGA is a professional membership association set up on a not-for-profit basis and is the world's only professional association for grooms. The BGA aims to increase national and international recognition of grooms, and the work that they do, providing them with a united voice. The Association currently has in excess of 700 members across all disciplines. Executive Director of the BGA, Lucy Katan commented; "This is a major step forward for grooms. Being invited to join the BEF is further demonstration of the vital role the BGA holds within the industry. We hope that even more grooms will recognise the importance of this development and join their

15 professional association. With the support of the Federation, the BGA can continue to make a real difference for grooms and their employers." The Showing Council The Showing Council represents an amalgamation of key showing bodies which has come into being with the support of Graham Suggett and Jan Rogers. The aims of The Showing Council are to ensure that breeding, welfare, education and health and safety standards are kept high for the benefit of its participants. Brian Williams of The Showing Council commented on the announcement; "I am absolutely delighted that the Showing Council has become a member of the British Equestrian Federation. This is a significant leap forward for the Showing Council and it presents a huge opportunity for the world of showing. The Showing Council very much looks forward to working with BEF to the mutual benefit of both organisations." British Bred Sport Horse (BBSH) Stallion Event a sellout! 3rd February 2011 This weekend's British Bred Sport Horse (BBSH) Stallion Event at Hartpury College was a sellout, with standing room only at peak time. Nearly 600 people went through the doors to view the annual event which has now become an established feature in the British sport horse calendar. Licensed stallions from the smallest sports pony, the appealing Littledale Bright Star, to the tallest eventing and show jumping sire Jaguar Mail (who came over from France for the event, along with his owner, the legendary Bernard Le Courtois) thrilled the packed stands for eight hours. The eventers featured first during the afternoon, with established event horse sires such as Revolution (and son Sir Suave), Weston Justice, Royaldik, Grafenstolz and Up With The Lark mixing it with exciting up and coming sires like Wolkenderry presented by Alex Hua Tian and Clayton Fredericks' Mr Big Cat. Power Blade, demonstrated to the full by his son Power Line and Oliver Townend, was followed by Chilli Morning, with rider Nick Gauntlett's entertaining demo engaging the crowd from the moment he entered the ring. The showjumpers then took centre stage where two of Meadow Stud's sires Vangelis and Cash Point delivered upon expectations, followed by the very promising Cendy. Crowd pleasers Retro Business and

16 Balinmore Irish Rebel showed their best alongside ones to watch Quisto Van De Helle Z and Donder. Overseas visitors Kannan, Fetiche du Pas and Quite Easy were very welcome additions to this engaging section. Feedback on the evening's dressage section indicates that the audience rated many of the sires' presentations very highly, and as the lights were dimmed and spotlights lit, Desert Moon, Treliver Decanter, the young Longton and Zamboucca delivered their performances. Woodlander Stud's Santana, Wavavoom, Rockstar and his son Rhythm n Blues set the scene for an emotional performance from Emma Hindle and Wie Weltmeyer to celebrate his moving to the UK and embarking on his new career as a sire. The ever youthful Landtanzer and Ragazzo strutted their stuff in hand, showing that they haven't lost one ounce of sparkle! Spectacular sports ponies were real crowd favourites - ranging in age from 22 to three, Caesar 171, sons LE Chiffre and Rosewater I Claudius complemented Hartpury's own Bernwode Benedict and Catherston's Littledale Bright Star. Finales were spectacularly delivered by Catherston Springsteen and Chequille Z, whose incredible torchlight climax to the evening resulted in a standing ovation. Next year's British Stallion Event is scheduled for Saturday 28 January 2012, at Hartpury College. Team Murka and World Class Programme U23 British Showjumping Championship th February Through the increased and generous support of Team Murka, the Team Murka and World Class Programme U23 British Showjumping Championship Final will carry a total prize fund of 10,000 plus Training Vouchers and a Style Award. There is a greater total prize fund of 1200 in each of the six qualifiers in the series, with the winner of each qualifier receiving 400 in prize money and 200 in value of Training Vouchers. This continued commitment highlights Team Murka's wish to further their involvement in the future of British showjumping. The competition is open to riders aged 23 years or under, with a total of twenty-fours riders qualifying for the Championship Final, which takes place at the London International Horse Show, Olympia in December The top seventeen horse and rider combinations from six qualifying competitions will come forward to the final, based on league points accumulated from each combination's best four results. Points and Training Vouchers will only be awarded to riders who are currently eligible for British Team selection. In addition to those seventeen qualified combinations, the five horse/rider combinations from the 2011

17 British Young Rider team will automatically qualify. Should one of these horse/rider combinations be placed in the top seventeen combinations in the points league table, the league qualification will be awarded down the line. The final two riders will be 'wild card' entries to make up the total twenty-four riders. In addition to the prize-money and Training Vouchers on offer at the qualifiers and the Championship Final there is a Style Prize, the winner of which will receive a voucher to the value of 1,500 towards the purchase of a saddle, for use in conjunction with the World Class Programme Master Saddler and the Pliance System. The World Class Programme, a joint title sponsor with Team Murka, is led by Performance Director Will Connell, who says of the series "The generous support of Team Murka enables the Championship Final and the qualifying series to be the valuable and prestigious Young Rider competition that it deserves to be". Olga White of Team Murka commented, "Team Murka is once again proud to support and be involved with the future of British showjumping and to provide The London International Horse Show at Olympia with the opportunity to showcase Britain's very best under-23 showjumping talent". Team Murka is a sponsorship vehicle for showjumping and sailing and is committed to pursuing excellence in both sports. They sponsor British show jumper, Peter Charles, his family and his Team; supporting him to build a world class team of horses with a specific focus on the London Olympic Games in Team Murka are currently involved in upgrading the main equestrian complex of the Central Russian Army Sporting Club in Moscow, aswell as the organisation and prize money for a series of Summer and Winter showjumping competitions held at the facility. The main objective of these competitions is to raise the level of involvement and the standard of showjumping in Russia, including children, juniors and young riders, amateurs and professionals. Sponsorship also extends to supporting two Russian riders. The World Class Development Programme is Lottery and Exchequer funded via UK Sport, and seeks to identify and develop talented athletes who have shown the potential to reach the world stage. The Programme underpins World Class Performance and, together with the Equine Pathway, they comprise the Equestrian World Class Programme, incorporating the three Olympic sports of dressage, eventing, showjumping and the Paralympic sport of para-equestrian dressage. The Programmes work closely with the three British Equestrian Federation Olympic Member Bodies; British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping, whose own training and competition programmes work hand in hand with the programmes run within World Class.

18 The first qualifying competition for the 2011 Championship Final took place at Ingliston Country Club near Glasgow in December 2010 and was won by James Smith riding Bally Knock Lad. The current points table can be viewed by at Further qualifying competitions in the series are: Arena UK, Saturday, 26th February; The Hand Equestrian Centre, Saturday, 19th March; Solihull Riding Club, 29th September - 2nd October; Aintree International Equestrian Centre; 3rd - 6th November; Addington Manor Equestrian Centre, 16th - 19th November, For more information please visit: Changes to the National Equine Anti Doping and Controlled Medication rules announced 8th March 2011 The British Equestrian Federation has today announced a new set of National Equine Anti Doping and Controlled Medication rules (BEFAR). The new rules, which closely mirror the FEI guidelines, will affect all BEF Member Bodies in FEI disciplines and will be incorporated into their rules on publication of their forthcoming rulebooks. All disciplines will be fully compliant by 1st January The BEF Member Bodies concerned have welcomed this standardised system, which will create a clear policy for all members across those disciplines, with all adhering to the same prohibited substances list, sanctions and procedures. British Showjumping will be the first Olympic discipline to join the system on 1st April The new system will see an increasing number of anti-doping tests across the disciplines and all affiliated members should expect their horse to be tested, whether they are competing at grass roots level or at a National Championship. The Equine Anti Doping and Controlled Medication Rules for international competitors remain unchanged. The new rules, which have been instigated by the FEI, apply to all National Federations, with the deadline for compulsory compliance for Federations set at 1st January It is hoped that the creation of standardised national guidelines will make things clearer for riders, particularly those that compete in more than one discipline. Once all of the FEI disciplines introduce the new rules, the prohibited substances, procedures and sanctions will be the same, whatever the discipline someone is competing

19 in. It is important to note that the new system, in line with the FEI, adopts their prohibited substances list in its entirety, including a ban on Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Under the new National system, these will be classed as Controlled Medications, which, if found in a horseâ s sample during competition, will result in a violation. BEFAR is supported and funded by all BEF Member Bodies and UK Anti Doping (UKAD). The BEFAR and prohibited substances list can be found on the BEF website by clicking here New survey reveals UK's current equine healthcare problems 10th March 2011 The results of the UK's first ever public National Equine Health Survey (NEHS), announced at the National Equine Forum(Tuesday 8 March), have pinpointed the current, non-notifiable healthcare issues affecting horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in the UK. The survey, which was pioneered by The Blue Cross animal charity and is supported by The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), was carried out last November following two years of pilot schemes. The intention was to find out more about endemic non-notifiable diseases that have never before been recorded in horses, ponies, donkeys and mules, such as coughs, skin diseases and lameness. The results were announced at the Forum by Professor Josh Slater, Professor of Equine Clinical Studies at The Royal Veterinary College, who has been working with The Blue Cross on the survey. Kerry Doyle, education officer at The Blue Cross said: "We are thrilled to be involved with this innovative project to enhance the future health of our horses and very grateful to all those who have participated in the survey so far. We now need even more horse owners to sign up for the next round in May so that we can capture as much useful data as possible." A total of 306 sets of records were submitted from 3120 horses in mainly private ownership, with a balance of representation from competition yards, riding schools, welfare charities and studs. A broad range of syndromes and diseases were assessed including colic, sarcoids, laminitis, wounds, dental issues, eye disease, lameness and weight issues.

20 The results showed that lameness was the most common problem affecting horses (11% of horses surveyed) but that the foot was not the most common cause of lameness and that laminitis (3%) was less common than the 7-8% total that previous surveys had suggested. Weight management was the next most common issue for horse owners, with 9% of horses recorded as overweight and 8% as underweight. These figures are lower than previous surveys which may be because they are based on the owner's assessment of their horse's weight which is subjective and may vary according to their perception of 'the right weight'. Skin disease and wounds (5% and 4% respectively) posed a significant problem and colic (2%) was also a common occurrence, with a 6:1 ratio between medical and surgical cases. The survey is breaking new ground in Europe as well as the UK. Currently Government agencies in all European countries conduct surveillance for prescribed exotic diseases such as West Nile Virus and African Horse Sickness but currently there are no large scale surveillance programmes for endemic diseases. "The regular collection of such data holds numerous benefits to the UK equine industry," said Professor Slater. "Not only does the survey provide a benchmarking facility for equine disease, welfare, standards of care and codes of practice but it will also underpin standards for yard inspection schemes. Not least it confirms the workability of an important template to monitor the serious threat of infectious and exotic disease in the future." He added: "It's exciting to see hints in the NEHS 2010 survey that data 'straight from the horse's mouth' might challenge some established ideas. For example; the survey found that lameness was common, as you would expect, but that the foot was not the most common cause of lameness, which you might not have expected. This kind of data has never been collected before and is invaluable to the veterinary profession and wider animal welfare industry, helping to inform our future research, training and education. It will be really exciting to see the results of the larger surveys The Blue Cross are running in 2011." The National Equine Health Survey is currently funded by The Blue Cross but sponsorship is being sought. It is to be conducted twice-yearly with the next census week planned for 9-15 May All keepers and owners of horses are urged to participate and details of all horse owners will remain anonymous. It's very quick and easy to complete and should only take around five minutes. To register online visit or NEHS@bluecross.org.uk.

21 Banana skins to Best Practice â equestrian business benefits from BEF Olympic Legacy project 10th March 2011 Elite riders may be the main focus for many in the build up to the London 2012 Olympic Games yet equestrianism at large is also able to benefit from the HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project of the BEF. Responding to requests from members of the London Horse Network, the latest HOOF-supported day enabled delegates to attend a complimentary 'Health and Safety and Employment Law' interactive workshop on 28th February, with experts able to specifically utilize their experience of equestrianism. Martine Dawlings, of Trent Park Equestrian Centre, the largest training and examinations centre in London said; "I was really impressed by the fact that HOOF had listened to what our needs were and had pitched the presentations at exactly the right level", adding, "I was also impressed by the speakers who were not only of a high calibre, but also were hands-on, practical and approachable people", concluding, "I learnt a lot and went back to the yard feeling much more confident and educated." The day began with Ray Hipkin, a Chartered Safety Practitioner delivering an unexpectedly fun and factual talk discussing the sense - and nonsense - of 'Health and Safety', to enable centres to prioritise their Health and Safety policies in order to avoid 'banana skins' and costly practices. After a welcome lunch break at the Hilton Olympia hotel, delegates returned to hear from Lucy Katan, Chief Executive of the British Grooms' Association ' a recent addition to the British Equestrian Federation. Lucy explained the role of the British Grooms Association, highlighting how it can help both grooms as a collective, and their employers. Courtesy of a grant received from the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, the British Grooms Association, has produced an 'Equine Employers Handbook', in conjunction with Morrish LLP Solicitors and delegates were able to submit their own questions and hear answers to some of the frequently asked questions from Nicole Seaman, Assistant Solicitor from Warner Goodman LLP and a keen rider and former yard staff member herself. The meeting then developed to an enlightening workshop that demonstrated the potential disparity of opinion between employers and their employees when discussing their specific role. Linda Hinds, Equestrian Centre Manager at Vauxhall City Farm generously offered to be questioned regarding 'best practice', and indeed she was able to report from having done a similar study with her own staff, and her interview offered an example as to how she handles employing staff; from advertising