Form to Function – WCHA Introduces New Versatility Classes
When you think about a Halter horse, what first comes to mind? Striking beauty? Finely chiseled muscles? Versatility? If that last description doesn’t immediately come to mind, there’s a reason. It might be because, somewhere in the continuous improvement of the elite Halter horse, the focus on how these horses with great conformation can perform was lost.
During the past 3 decades, research has shed light on many genetic diseases in horses, including several defects in Quarter Horses and other breeds that have utilized Quarter Horse bloodlines. Some of these diseases cropped up in recent years, originating from mutations in individuals that were ancestors of some of today’s popular animals, and the new trait was perpetuated in numerous offspring.
Continue reading …Sunshine & Luxury – The World Equestrian Center Comes to Ocala
May 17, 2019 Comments Off on Sunshine & Luxury – The World Equestrian Center Comes to Ocala
It’s probably one of the most anticipated equestrian facility openings, not only in Florida, but across the nation. Promises of equine and human accommodations, the likes of which haven’t been seen before, have tantalized exhibitors and vendors alike since the project was first announced in 2017. The World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio has played host to many prestigious equestrian events and, starting in 2021, its southern twin, the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, will carry on as one of the premier show facilities in the country, if not the world.
Continue reading …Across the Border & From Abroad – Foreign Workers Face Hurdles
May 13, 2019 Comments Off on Across the Border & From Abroad – Foreign Workers Face Hurdles
Behind the much-publicized issue of immigration stands a frequently overlooked population that imparts considerable influence on our hobby: the non-citizen workers who have a desire to be part of the horse industry here in the United States. Whatever your viewpoint on the complex topic of immigration, there’s no doubt that apprentice or guest workers are responsible for many of the behind-the-scenes tasks that turn horses into champions.
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Megan Waldron of Parker, Colorado, is going into her final year of youth competition in 2019 with some impressive titles already under her belt. This well-rounded rider has already earned a NSBA World Show third place finish in Youth Hunter Under Saddle, Congress Championship in Novice Youth Western Riding, and a Congress Reserve Championship in Youth Hunt Seat Equitation. She has known the thrill of winning and the heartbreak of saying goodbye to a beloved horse that had been her best friend, confidante, and show partner.
Continue reading …Invitation Only – An Unmatched Legacy is Laid to Rest
May 8, 2019 Comments Off on Invitation Only – An Unmatched Legacy is Laid to Rest
During the final years of his life, legendary AQHA stallion Invitation Only enjoyed grazing in a green field reserved especially for him at Leeman Farms in Massillon, Ohio. The 1990 bay stallion by Barpassers Image and out of Bears Raisin Kane passed peacefully on February 15, 2019 after a well-deserved retirement with Fritz and Carole Leeman.
Continue reading …Kail Quarter Horses – A Family Tradition of Success
May 7, 2019 Comments Off on Kail Quarter Horses – A Family Tradition of Success
Ryan and Andrea Kail are third-generation horsemen, following the family tradition of quality and success at Kail Quarter Horses in Scottsdale, Arizona. They’re an equine power couple that’s managing a thriving family business in a demanding industry while raising two energetic sons, Lane and Carter. They’re living proof that if you have a village, in the form of a loving, supportive family, and clients who feel like extended family, the sky is the limit.
Continue reading …Cracking the Code of Equine Metabolic Syndrome
May 6, 2019 Comments Off on Cracking the Code of Equine Metabolic Syndrome
There is a cycle of aging that occurs in all species. As you get older, your body’s chemistry begins to change. When humans hit middle age, they find that their metabolism slows down, making it harder to lose weight and keep it off. The same can be said for the aging equine. When horses hit what’s considered to be middle age (8–18 years old) it’s not uncommon to see them become a little rounder in the midsection and act a bit sluggish, even when you think you’re providing a high quality nutrition plan. These horses may have developed equine metabolic syndrome, more commonly known as EMS.
Continue reading …Weaning Foals Using the Farmers’ Almanac
March 27, 2019 Comments Off on Weaning Foals Using the Farmers’ Almanac
The Old Farmers’ Almanac has maintained an enduring and faithful readership since its inception in 1792. Early farmers took the Almanac’s advice very seriously for planning, predictions, planting, and animal health. While the world has changed much over the centuries, the Almanac’s Best Days advice continues to be one of its most popular features, right in league with its long range weather forecasts.
Continue reading …Home Away From Home – Camping at the Show Has Benefits
March 26, 2019 Comments Off on Home Away From Home – Camping at the Show Has Benefits
It’s been a long day in the saddle. After tossing your barn gear in the laundry, you fix yourself a drink and turn on the TV. It’s time to relax, and you haven’t even left the showgrounds! From keeping costs down to bringing along the kids or the family dog, there are countless benefits to camping onsite. Read on for tips and advice from some of the industry’s most fairground savvy exhibitors.
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