Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Nov. 20- Playday, saddle fit clinic and Red Light demo at Majestic Meadow

This Sunday at Majestic Meadow Stables in Stevensburg, VA will be continuing their successful Playdays with 2 Star Instructor Pam Knight.  Private and semi private lessons are available with her, the playday will be from 12-3 pm, the Saddlefit Clinic will follow with refreshments being served, then the Red light demo.. Saddlefit and Red light demo are at 3:30 to 6pm... There is a $20 grounds fee for the whole day, and a small separate fee for the Saddle fit clinic... Contact Pam Knight at pam@pamknight.net  for costs, and participation in the clinics. Send Bonnie an email for the playday at splashwms@juno.com, www.majesticmeadowstables.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

SEFHA Colt Starter Challenge Invitational Nov. 12, 2011 Chatham, Virginia

Southern Virginia has not seen a brighter collection of horsemanship talent in this area in a long time. You don’t want to miss this opportunity!

Need tips on training techniques that will help put you on the right track for a calm, fun and safe horse on the trail? This will be an interactive day with the trainers while they work with the horse. Judges will observe and chose a winner at the end of the day!

Well-known horse people are participating in this event from Tom Seay to Ken McNabb!

Tickets are $15 for the day. Need a ticket? They are being sold at Karen’s Hallmark at Piedmont Mall in Danville and at Southern States in Chatham. There are a limited number of tickets, so hurry and purchase yours before they are sold out. They are going fast! (Half have sold already.)

If you can’t get to these locations, you can call David Tuggle 434-792-3811, Susan 434-349-9808 or Lisa 434-656-8441.

Check out the website for more information from a list of competitors and judges to hotel discounts.

www.SEFHA.net

Veteran Therapeutic Riding Program Trail Ride Fund Raiser Nov. 19th


Where:  Belmead Stables & Riding Club, 5000 Cartersville Road, Powhatan, VA 23139
Ride along the James River on 22 miles of well maintained private trails winding through forests and meadows.
When:  November 19th 2011  
Time:  Sign In 9:00 am - 12 noon, Trails open at 10:00 am and closed at 3:30 pm, Lunch included from 12:00 to 1:30   

Flag Presentation by Veteran Drill Team at 1:00 pm
                       
Cost:    $30 donation for Pre-registration postmarked by November 12th, includes lunch.  If registering after November 12th, donation is $35, lunch included

Note:    Belmead Riding Club Rules:  Riders under the age of 18 must wear a safety helmet and be accompanied by an adult.  No stallions, no dogs, no smoking or drinking of alcoholic                                     beverages on trail, and copy of current negative Coggins required.

For information, or to become a volunteer, please contact one of the following:
Sherry Newark  (804) 986-2537     sherry_newark@yahoo.com
Clint Arrington  (804) 357-9524    ldequestriancenter@yahoo.com

Website: www.ldequestriancenter.com/


Glenmore Fall Hunter Pace Nov. 20th

Staunton, Virginia 24401
All Riders Welcome
Four Divisions
Entry Fees:
Include lunch
Adult Rider $35, Junior (17 & under) Rider $25, Lunch only (Non-Riders) $6

Grounds Open: 10 AM
Entries: taken between 10 AM – 1 PM
Start Times: between 11 AM – 1 PM
Lunch Available : between 11 AM – 2:30 PM
Plan to finish ride by: 3 PM 
All riders must be in by 3 PM to qualify for awards.

The Course: 
Will be the same for all 4 divisions with jump “go around” 
options for non-jumpers. It is well flagged, easy to follow an
d approximately 7 miles in length.


Hilltopper and Trail Rider Divisions : 
Slower paced. Follow the marked "go-arounds" before each jump but 
jumping is optional, if wearing a helmet.

Hunter and “Junior” Hunter Optimum: 
Faster paced. Jumps are optional and not to exceed 3’ feet.


Riders choose to sign up as a single, a pair of 2 or group of 3.
Only 2 riders are eligible for awards per team. Singles can buddy up and 
meet new friends. Large groups…sign up in 2’s – 3’s, ride as you wish.

Awards will be given to the top six finishers in each division at the 
conclusion of the Pace. Winners will be determined by “closest to 
average time” for that division -- ties are broken based on the fastest 
time. All riders must be in by 3 PM to qualify for awards.


For Additional Information Contact:
Cindy Kiser • cindykiser38@gmail.com540-248-3868 or
glenmore@glenmorehunt.org540-249-4200

Friday, October 21, 2011

SPIRIT Equestrian Therapeutic Riding Program Hosts Exhibition to Raise Awareness

To raise awareness of the benefits therapeutic horseback riding can provide, SPIRIT Open Equestrian will host a riding exhibit featuring students and volunteers.

All are welcome to enjoy the exhibit in the indoor arena of Frying Pan Park located in Herndon, VA on Oct. 22, 2011. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at roughly 1:00 p.m.

There is no admission fee, but donations are greatly appreciated. All profits will go towards care of the horses at SPIRIT Open Equestrian and towards scholarship funds for students. The dayís activities will include dressage tests, equitation exhibits, judged trail rides, and pony rides for everyone.  The schedule can be found at www.spiritopenequestrian.blogspot.com. For more information, contact Program Director Davorka Suvak at 703-600-9667 or dada357@gmail.com
____________________________
SPIRIT Open Equestrian is a small therapeutic riding center located at Frying Pan Park in Herndon, VA. The program offers therapeutic and beginner level educational horseback riding lessons.  The program, which opened in 2007, is run by program director Davorka Suvak who founded the program based on the principles that ìOur horses are our partners.  We instill in our students a strong basis in horsemanship and trust our horses to teach our students life skills, perseverance, and tolerance. Teamwork and selflessness are key to the success of our program and our students.î  Spirit Open Equestrian has five horses and a committed staff of volunteers and instructors. Their vision is to create a strong positive and stable environment that will foster growth and personal development in the lives of its participants and staff.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Tri-County Feeds, Etc. Offers New Feeds Customized for Northern Piedmont Horses

Tri-County Feeds, Etc. (TCFE), providing feed and equine and equestrian products for more 33 years, recognizes that proper nutrition is critical to horses’ well-being. TCFE worked closely with the nutritional experts at McCauley’s Equine to formulate and manufacture a complete line of feeds that addresses the specific needs of horses in the Northern Piedmont Region. Textured and pelleted customized feeds with various levels of protein, fat, and fiber are available.

TCFE Feeds for the Piedmont are:

· Produced in a drug- and medication-free, equine-only feed mill
· Made fresh to order using the highest quality ingredients available
· Highly palatable and digestible
· Fully fortified with inorganic and organic mineral sources
· Produced in consistent formulas for all ages and types of horses
· Packaged in an environmentally friendly “bag within a bag” that separates so both parts can be recycled easily
· Affordably priced

Bill Jackson, President of TCFE, said, “We saw a clear need for feeds that would meet the unique nutritional requirements of horses of all ages and disciplines located here in the Northern Piedmont.” He continued, “TCFE was pleased to work with McCauley’s Equine to develop the feeds that meet this need effectively and affordably. From babies to seniors, from healthy horses to those with special needs—TCFE Feeds for the Piedmont will deliver the nutrition required.”

The new TCFE Feeds for the Piedmont are not only good for the horses of the region—they are good for the community too. TCFE believes it is important for companies to reinvest in the communities from which they earn their livelihood—and they are doing just that with their new TCFE Feeds. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of TCFE Feeds for the Piedmont goes to the Goose Creek Association (www.goosecreekassn.org) and to the Piedmont Environmental Council (www.pecva.org and www.buylocalvirginia.org) –stewards of our environment and open space and supporters of buy local.

“Reinvesting in our region and protecting our environment have always been priorities for TCFE. Our new feeds are one more way we can support these priorities,” said Jeri Jackson, Vice President of TCFE.    

For additional information on the new TCFE Feeds for the Piedmont—please visit TCFE at 7408 John Marshall Highway, Marshall, VA 20115, on the web at www.tricountyfeeds.com, or contact Bill Jackson at 540-364-8191.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Montebello Fall Trail Ride Oct 7-9, 2011

Just a quick reminder...if you haven't already registered, there is still time! We hope you can make plans to join us at the Montebello "no frills" Fall trail ride scheduled for October 7-9.


The Montebello Volunteer Fire & Emergency Services (MVFES) organization was founded in 1982. It provides emergency services to the community and to the thousands of visitors that pass through Montebello every year. The community of Montebello is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It is a rural (some would say remote) area with beautiful scenery; just perfect for a getaway weekend. The fall and spring trail rides are our main fund raising events.

Our 2011 fall trail ride is on October 7-9. This fall tradition sponsored by MVFES coincides with the crew cooking apple butter over an outdoor fire. We enjoy providing you the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Virginia, and we appreciate the support you provide to help us protect it.



Advance registration and payment are required for each rider. Registration forms for the Fall ride should be submitted by September 30, 2011 and include a copy of the Coggins report for each horse.


Please visit our website https://sites.google.com/site/montebellotrailrides/  for all the details, including registration forms. If you have additional questions, please contact us at montebellotrails@gmail.com

Judged Pleasure Ride Oct. 22

Virginia Appaloosa
Horse Club’s Fall Judged
Pleasure Ride
October 22nd the VA Appaloosa Horse Club will be hosting a fall Judged Pleasure Ride at Andora Farm in Culpepper VA. This Fall’s ride will be a FLAT $20 Fee to ride ! So if you’ve never tried a Judged Trail ride, or just wish to get a final practice ride in before the end of the season, come on out and join us. Age and Appaloosa divisions. Register at ride, rain date is Oct 29th. Registration begins at 9:00am, first horse out at 10:00 last horse ride out at noon. 

Visit our website for details:
www.va4apps.com 

Or contact: dobermom11@msn.com or 540-854-0748

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Dressage Debuts at 2012 College Preparatory Invitational

Wellington, FL - August 3, 2011 - The College Preparatory Invitational (CPI) will add dressage seat classes to the 2012 edition of their event, held January 13-15. Held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, FL, this year's CPI will be a must-attend event for aspiring hunt seat and dressage collegiate riders. The application for the dressage classes is now available online at www.collegeprepinvitational.com and are due by October 1, 2011.

With new dressage seat equitation classes at this year's competition, the CPI is also excited to welcome six-time dressage Olympian Robert Dover as the judge.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Morven Park Upcoming Events - August through November

Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 6-7
Summer Fling Dressage/Pas de Deux Challenge
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, witness the beauty of the sport of dressage. Free to spectators. On Saturday, 5-8 p.m., is the Pas de Deux, often called “ballet on horseback,” a musical routine for two horses and riders. Gen. adm. $5, ages 8 and under free. VIP seating with hors d’oeuvres and cash bar, $75.
Register for the Pas de Deux tickets here: http://mppasdedeux.eventbrite.com

Saturday, Aug. 13, 8 p.m.-10 p.m.
Moonlight Trail Ride*
Experience Morven Park in a whole new light … moonlight! Skirt the woods, the Davis mansion, and formal gardens, as riders and horses traverse pastures & absorb the serenity of a warm summer evening. Must provide own horse. $30/rider.

Friday-Sunday, Sept. 16-18.
George Morris Clinic*
Internationally acclaimed equestrian and coach returns to Morven Park to conduct a 3-day riding/jumping clinic. Three skill levels offered, two hours each day. $600.
Call or email Shannon Pedlar to register:  703-777-2890 x0 or spedlar@morvenpark.org

Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 1-2, all-day event
Morven Park Fall Horse Trials
Entertain your family with the triathlon of horse sports. Horse trials are the most exacting and exciting of all equestrian sports, as riders compete in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. Free admission for spectators.
Call or email Shannon Pedlar to register:  703-777-2890 x0 or spedlar@morvenpark.org.


Monday, July 18, 2011

Woodside North Equine Clinic Meet and Greet July 27

Horse owners can meet and greet the Woodside North Equine Clinic Veterinarians Dr. Wolf and Dr. Hammond at Brock's Riverside Grill in Fredericksburg, VA on July 27 from 6:30 until 8:30. Join them as they share information about their services and meet the new veterinarians that will be serving the Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Southern Fauquier, Eastern Orange and Eastern Culpeper areas. They can be contacted at 540-423-3100 or go to www.woodsideequineclinic.com

Monday, July 11, 2011

August 22 USHJA Clinic at Fox Pointe Farm w/Julie Winkel

Fox Point Farm, Quinton, VA - August 22- 2011 Clinic with USEF Medal finals judge, Hunter Breeding Finals, and Pony Finals Judge Julie Winkel. Julie Winkel is an R USEF judge, as well as a CEF judge. She has held a license since 1984, and judged all the most prestigious shows in the country, including Devon, Harrisburg, Washington International, The National Horse Show, Capital Challenge, The Hampton Classic, Upperville, Wellington, Pony Finals & Hunter Breeding Finals. She has designed courses and judged the New England Equitation Finals, the ASPCA Maclay Finals, as well as the USEF Medal Finals (2010 with George Morris).

Julie Winkel is on the Board Of Directors and the planning committee for USHJA, serves as co-chair of the officials committee, sit on the Emerging Athletes Committee, Equitation Committee, Trainer Certification Program Committee. Besides judging, she gives clinics throughout the country and writes a monthly column for PRACTICAL HORSEMAN'S "Conformation Clinic."

Clinic jumping sections from 2'-3'+. Contact Colleen Seely to reserve a spot in your height section. foxpointefarm@yahoo.com

PDF forms on-line now!

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Glenmore Hunt Club Summer Hunter Pace

Saturday, July 23, 2011
Mountainside, Swoope, VA 24479  Enjoy the panoramic views while riding 6-8 miles of the most beautiful countryside in Augusta County. All Riders & Disciplines Welcome

The Course: Will be the same for all 4 divisions with jump “go around”  options for non-jumpers. It is well flagged, easy to follow and approximately 7 miles in length.

Grounds Open: 8 AM
Entries: taken between 8 – 11 AM
Start Times: between 9 – 11 AM
Lunch Available : between 11 AM – 2 PM
Plan to finish ride by: 1 PM

All riders must be in by 1 PM to qualify for awards.

Hilltopper and Trail Rider Divisions : Slower paced. Follow the marked "go-arounds" before each jump but jumping is optional, if wearing a helmet.

Hunter and “Junior” Hunter Optimum: Faster paced. Jumps are optional and not to exceed 3’ feet. Riders choose to sign up as a single, a pair of 2 or group of 3. Only 2 riders are eligible for awards per team. Singles can buddy up and meet new friends. Large groups…sign up in 2’s – 3’s, ride as you wish.

Awards will be given to the top six finishers in each division at the conclusion of the Pace. Winners will be determined by “closest to average time” for that division -- ties are broken based on the fastest time. All riders must be in by 1 PM to qualify for awards.

Enjoy the scenery and have fun! A Special Thank You to The Landowners who generously and graciously make their beautiful lands available for this activity.

If you’re interested in Foxhunting contact us anytime and don’t miss our upcoming Foxhunting & Gymnastics Clinic in July.


For more information contact: www.glenmorehunt.org
glenmore@glenmorehunt.org
540-249-4200

Clinic with World Champion Hunter Rider, Sandy Ferrell


All proceeds to benefit the Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program's (NVTRP) Capital Campaign.

Monday, July 25 and Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Groups: 2’6”, 3’, or 3’6” (Riders and their horses should be proficient at selected jumping level)
*Mounted 2-Day Clinic - $350 per horse/rider (ea. horse/rider allowed one groom without cost)
*Mounted 1-Day Clinic - $200 per horse/rider (ea. horse/rider allowed one groom without cost) 
*Auditors -  $50 per auditor for one day, $75 for both days.

Registration forms available: www.nvtrp.org
Contact Honore D. Hastings, Director of Special Events, NVTRP
Email:  directorofspecialevents@nvtrp.org or Cell:  301.518.4215

Thursday, June 9, 2011

“POKER RIDE” Trail Ride for Horses/Riders of any Discipline Aug. 14th

August 14, 2011 9 am- 2 pm Camp Highroad 21164 Steptoe Hill Road, Middleburg, VA 20117 
Cost: $30 per horse (when pre-registered, $35 day of event) 

To Pre-Register/obtain waiver: http://www.tristaterc.org/SignUp11.pdf 
Also a flyer with the detailed information can be downloaded from: http://www.tristaterc.org/PokerRide11.pdf

For More Info: 540-822-5419 or email thegs@loudounwireless.com 

Tri-State Riding Club is sponsoring its third fun Poker Ride. The club will donate 50 percent of the net proceeds to Camp Highroad in support of the facilities. Participants have up to 4 hours to ride their own horse around Camp Highroad while playing a fun game of 5-card draw poker along the way. Each rider will receive their first and last cards at registration and will pick up 3 additional cards from Dealers stationed along the ride. (In case of a tie, high card draw will determine the winner.) This is not a race and trails will be well marked, riders my “go as they please.” 

Pre-registration is appreciated ($30/per horse) by completing the registration form and waiver found at http://www.tristaterc.org/SignUp11.pdf
You may register the day of the event for $35. Call 540-822-5419 or email thegs@loudounwireless.com with questions. 

Join your friends and neighbors in a fun day of navigating beautiful country through the trails and woods and try your luck and a chance to win $100 and a surprise prize. Don’t forget a copy of your current Coggins test and approved helmet. 

For more information about the Tri-State Riding Club visit:  www.tristaterc.org 

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

US Equine Rescue League Casino Night Fundraiser- The Horses Need You!

Triple Crown Casino Night
Date: 6/11/2011, Time: 6pm - Cost: $40/$50
Location: Richmond Country Club, 12950 Patterson Ave, Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103

Gala event. Lots of fun for everyone. Black Jack, Texas Hold 'em, Roulete, Craps and River City Horse Racing. Tickets $40 in advance or $50 at the door.

Tickets on sale now at http://events.userl-vard.org or email events@userl-vard.org for information

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please invite your friends and family to this event to help the horses. More information is available at http://www.userl-vard.org/events.aspx 

---------
The United States Equine Rescue League, Inc, is pleased to acknowledge a generous grant from the Jessica Beath Foundation.

Jessica Beath started The Beath Foundation in 1991 to honor the memory of her husband Dr. Thomas Beath, her parents Mr. and Mrs. William Thomas and her sisters Annie Thomson and Beatrice Stockdale. Its mission is to provide for general charitable purposes, most notably the care and rescue of animals.

USERL is honored to play a part in this mission through its ongoing mission of rescuing abused, neglected, or abandoned equines; provide them with care and rehabilitation; and finally find them a compatible, loving home.

Concurrently, The Beath Foundation has increased their matching grant campaign for the USERL - VA Richmond Region to $10,000! Donation gifts of $20 or more, up to a total of $10,000, made in the central Virginia Area through June 23, 2011.

Make a donation for the matching donation program for Virginia http://www.userl.org/BeathFoundation.html

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Merial Launches “Outbreak Alert” Program

DULUTH, GA.– June 1, 2011– Supporting horse owners and veterinarians in their efforts to keep their horses healthy, today Merial launched its “Outbreak Alert” program, which will be used to notify horse owners about reports of equine disease throughout the country, as well as build a greater awareness of those diseases and the importance of prevention.

Disease poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of horses. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) has a mortality rate estimated to be as high as 90 percent.1,2 Every case of rabies presents a death sentence to the infected horse – and a risk of infection for other horses.3 Potomac horse fever (PHF) can lead to severe complications or death, which occur in up to 30 percent of infected horses.4,5 One out of three horses that gets sick from West Nile virus (WNV) dies or must be euthanized.6 While these statistics are alarming, horse owners can help minimize the risk of disease by being armed with information.

“The primary focus of the program is to help keep horse owners, like myself, informed about the threat of disease in the area where they live or where they may be traveling,” says Beckie Peskin, Product Manager, Equine Vaccines and Dewormers, Merial. “Owners want the best for their horses, and knowing where the threat of disease exists will help them take the appropriate preventive measures to help protect their horse – whether it is in their own barn or competing halfway across the country.”

Horse owners can sign up for free alerts via the program’s website, www.outbreak-alert.com. When a disease report occurs, those who have signed up for the notification and live within a 250-mile radius of where the report occurred will receive a text and/or e-mail message to alert them of the potential disease threat. Owners who travel with their horses and want to stay abreast of disease threats in other parts of the country can enter multiple ZIP codes in the site’s search field. They will then be able to receive alerts for all areas they have selected. Owners are also encouraged to share details of the Outbreak Alert program with other horse owners through e-mail, text, Twitter and Facebook.
 

Lecture and Book Signing by James Morgan at the National Sporting Library and Museum

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA. – On Friday, June 17, there will be a Battle of Ball’s Bluff lecture and book signing by James Morgan, author and historian, in the Founder's Room of the National Sporting Library and Museum. 

Mr. Morgan will also sign his book A Little Short on Boats: the Fights at Ball’s Bluff and Edwards Ferry, October 21-22, 1861. This event is presented in cooperation with the Mosby Heritage Area Association. To reserve a place for the lecture and for more information about a Saturday tour organized by the Mosby Heritage Area Association, call 540-687-6681. The reception and lecture are free. Seating is limited.

The National Sporting Library and Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the literature, art, and culture of horse and field sports. Founded in 1954, the institution has over 17,000-books dating from the 16th-21st centuries. The John H. Daniels Fellowship program supports the research of visiting scholars. In the fall of 2011, the newly renovated and expanded historic building on the campus will open to house exhibits of American and European fine sporting art. Information is shared through exhibitions, lectures, seminars, publications, and special events. The NSLM is open to researchers and the general public. Admission is free. For more information visit www.nsl.org .

Friday, May 27, 2011

Annual "SNOW IN JUNE" Trail Ride, June 10-12, 2011

Registration deadline June 4, 2011 Location: Bull Pasture Mountain Ranch, McDowell, VA

Ride the high country without leaving Virginia!! Located in scenic Highland County, VA. We  are less than 2 hours from Charlottesville and an hour from Harrisonburg. Bring your camera, our views are breathtaking!!  Experience the spirit of the West, stars so close it feels like you could touch them, trails and views that keep getting better with each turn of the trail!  A portion of the proceeds will go to McDowell Volunteer Fire Department. Hope to see you there!!  More information at: http://www.bullpasturemountainranch.com/events.php

All trails are self guided, ride at your own pace, for as long as you’d like!  Trails are well marked with ribbons, with separate rides for each day.  Prior to the beginning of each ride, your host will tell you about the trail and what to expect.  You may “mix & match” your rides to suit your skill and endurance level on Saturday.  All times are given at a pleasure pace.  We encourage you to take time to enjoy the spectacular views!  Our trails have received rave reviews! Enjoy all that this beautiful ranch and Mother Nature have to offer! 

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Benefit Trail Ride for Andrea Johnson, May 28, 2011

Andrea suffers from a little known disease called Wegener’s Disease which is an inflammation of the blood vessels.   Before she was diagnosed with this disease & started on medication, Andrea was unable to care for herself and could not walk without the aid of a walker.  She has been unable to work since October and medical bills are adding up.  Doctors say she will need to stay on medication. Andrea and her husband, Doug, have been friends of ours for several years & we want to help them out as much as we can. 

Location:  Reedy Creek Hunt Club, 198 Glendale Mill Rd., Freeman, Va. 23856  Gates will open at 3 p.m. Friday for those who wish to come early.   Primitive camping allowed, limited space.  Saturday Registration:   8 a.m. – 10 a.m.    Ride at your own pace.   
Trail will be marked with Blue Ribbon.    On your own for lunch, so please pack your lunch.   Dinner will be at 4:30 p.m.    Coggins will be checked. Please bring a copy of your Coggins to be submitted upon arrival. $25.00 per person for trail ride and dinner - $10.00 dinner only. Homemade Brunswick Stew available Friday evening - $5.00 per person 

Directions:   From Lawrenceville,  #58 east.  Pass Exxon Service Station/Freeman Post Office, right on Vulcan Road.  Look for Trail Ride sign.   Left on Belfield Road at stop sign, right on Glendale Mill Road, right on first driveway. From Emporia, take #58 west approximately 10-12 miles.  Pass Reedy Creek Wood Products sign on left, left at Rt. 634  (to Freeman), go to stop sign, turn right on Belfield Road, then left on Glendale Mill Road.       

Contact:   Nancy Watson, 434-532-6785; Francis Watson, 434-637-3868.  Please RSVP. 

Monday, May 23, 2011

Dressage Clinic with Nicki Vogel June 11


Turkey Hill Stables located in Woodville, VA, is sponsoring a dressage clinic with Nicki Vogel on June 11, 2011. Nicki is a traditionalist who believes that dressage is the foundation for all horses no matter what discipline the horse and rider are pursuing. She is classically trained and has competed internationally. Turkey Hill Stables will be offering private Fix-A-Test rides and private traditional sessions with Nicki. Sessions will focus on raising your test scores and helping to develop your test riding skills. Please visit www.turkeyhillstables.com or contact Heather Marsh at 540-987-9778 for further information.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

USTR Memorial Day Benefit Ride

The 17th Annual Benefit Ride is just around the corner, Sunday May 29, 2011 at Glenwood Park in Middleburg, VA.-- Last year's beneficiaries were: Horses for Heroes -- Equestrian Facilities Fund --Trot Search and Rescue—You are welcome to come out for a terrific ride over the wonderfully scenic and private trails rarely open for public riding. Ride 6 to 15 miles at your own pace on well marked trails that range from gently rolling mixed fields/woods to more aggressive hills and river crossings. Ride the trail(s) right for you - there is something for everybody! While you enjoy your ride and your lunch, remember you are helping the USTR help some very worthy causes. If you have recommendations for a 2011 beneficiary, the USTR wants to know. The ride registration form is posted on their website: www.ustrailride.org

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Open House Liberty Hall Farm, Rixeyville, VA - Sat. May 21

Join us for fun filled day of family activities at Liberty Hall Farm. Pony Rides, Hay Rides, Face Painting, Moon Bounce, all-day Demonstrations and much more!!!!. 10 am - 5pm
Culpeper Animal Shelter will be out with several dogs available for adoption; Dr. Jana Froeling will demonstrate Equine Acupuncture, and Mountain View Canine Obedience & Agility Demonstrations. Going Grey Farm Percherons, Equine Massage and more!
*All donations from activities will be donated to the Culpeper Animal Shelter.
FREE ADMISSION!!!
FREE 10 X 10 TACK SWAP SPACES
FREE VENDOR SPACES
PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS & ORGANIZATION
4H & Local Youth Groups Encouraged to Participate


Please R.S.V.P. a vendor or tack space by
May 20th - more information at www.somersetstables.org/events.html

Horses in Petersburg - June 2 Presentation


PETERSBURG, VA–– The Historic Petersburg Foundation’s history committee is sponsoring a free presentation entitled “Horses in Petersburg” on Thursday, June 2, 2011, at 6:30 p.m. Speakers will include a variety of equine experts from the region who will discuss the many roles horses have played throughout the history of Petersburg, from power source and primary method of transportation to the foundation of many recreational pastimes still enjoyed today.

The program will take place at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 110 N. Union Street, Petersburg, VA. Free parking is available in the church parking lot behind the church on Market Street.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Benefit Dressage Clinic for Diamonds in the Rough Rescue Horses on May 21st.


Join us and learn more about dressage in a relaxed atmosphere!  Lessons are available to horses and riders of all levels, breeds and disciplines.  Anna Schriebl, the instructor, trained in Germany for six years with a former instructor from the Spanish Riding School of Vienna and competed in dressage and show jumping in Germany and America.  She also earned her German Bronze Riding Medal.

Lessons are $35 and ALL proceeds go towards the Merry Oaks/Diamonds in the Rough rescue horses’ vet bills.  The clinic will be held at Merry Oaks Stable in Windsor.

Please call 757-876-3272 for more information, and go to http://www.merryoaksstables.com/ for directions

Monday, May 2, 2011

USHJA Zone 3 Sport Forum on May 4th

Zone 3 members are invited to participate at a Sport Forum at the Lexington Spring Encore in Lexington, Virginia on Wednesday, May 4th at 6:30pm in the Hospitality Tent. 

President Bill Moroney, and Kelley Mallery, USHJA Director of Programs and Education will be hosting this forum. Subjects will include: Rule Change Proposals regarding headgear, prize money offered at Jumper levels 5 & 6, qualification changes for NAJRYC and Junior Jumper (Prix des States) – creating a computer list for qualification, NSAID rule effective 12/1/11; 

Other topics include developing a National Championship Event; Creation of Young Hunter Sections; WCHR program; Pilot program of First Year Green and Green Conformation section HOTY awards being based exclusively on money won.

More information go to www.ushja.org

Friday, April 29, 2011

Coggins Clinic at Rappahannock Equine Clinic, May 14th

Coggins Clinic on Saturday, May 14th from 8am-2pm At Rappahannock Equine Clinic

7050 Governor Almond Rd., Locust Grove, VA 22508
For more information call 540-854-7171
Trailer in and have the In-Clinic Fee waived. Vaccinations Available

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

May Events at Cedar Run Ranch with Kenny Harlow

May 2nd-20th
Kick off the Spring at Cedar Run Ranch with our Three Week Apprenticeship program. Learn Kenny's proven techniques first hand while experiencing round penning, trail riding in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, and learning all the skills of good horsemanship and safe effective training methods. Shorten your stay to a one week "mini" apprenticeship, and challenge yourself to your riding and training goals!
Contact us today to sign up, as spots are filling quickly, 434-983-2221 or kenny@kennyharlow.com.

May 10th, 11th, 12th & 24th
Jose Mendez will be at Cedar Run Ranch! In this amazing clinic you can have a lesson with the dressage master himself, Jose Mendez-Royal School of Spain! An international selected representative, his Grand Prix Freestyle was described by the Head of the Judges Committee for Beijing Olympics, Mariette Withages as a "Joy to Watch". Snr Mendez will sometimes ride horses at clinics, and it is amazing to see the transformation of your horse before your eyes! He is kind, soft and welcomes all levels of horses and riders-especially encouraging of young riders! Please contact us for prices and times for lessons at 434-983-2221 or kenny@kennyharlow.com!

May 23rd-27th
Professional Trainer's Week at Cedar Run Ranch
Attention Kenny Harlow Certified Trainers, Professional Trainer's Week is coming up May 23rd-27th! Come to the ranch and learn all of Kenny's new training exercises that will make your training more fun and easier!  Contact us at 434-983-2221 or kenny@kennyharlow.com

Monday, April 25, 2011

St. Jude Benefit Trail Ride on April 30th

Don't miss the 10th annual St Jude Benefit Trail Ride
AT CLOVERDALE QUARTERS IN SUTHERLIN, VA
(6 miles east of Danville on left side of 58)
ON SATURDAY, APRIL 30TH 2011
Ride will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Negative Coggins Required
No Alcoholic Beverages Allowed
Dinner will be provided immediately following the ride.
Cost is $25.00 for Adults & $15.00 for children 
(this includes dinner)
$10.00 donation for dinner guests who are unable to ride but would still like to join us to eat.
We look forward to seeing you there
For more information please contact:
Larry & Laurie Miller @ 434-822-5535
or David & Cheryl Tuggle @ 434-792-3811

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Amelia Springs Trail Ride - Register now!

Spring Trail Ride - April 29 - May 1, 2011
Fall Trail Ride - September 16 - 18, 2011

The Amelia Springs Trail Ride is a family oriented camping experience held twice yearly bringing people and horses together for fun and fellowship.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Boy Scouts of America. Cost for weekend is $60 for adults and $30 for youth ages 11-16. Children ages 10 and under are FREE! Price includes 3 meals on Saturday and Sunday Breakfast. Pre-registration required by April 15th. 

Gates open at 10 a.m. on Friday however, no charge for early camping only arrivals Thursday, April 28th, after 3 p.m. A current (within 12 months) Negative Coggins is required for all horses. Please NO stallions. Dogs are welcome on leashes but please, NO dogs on trails. 

There are a variety of marked trails including short, medium and long. Riders under 18 years of age must wear helmets. Friday night there will be a Spaghetti Dinner. Cost is $6.00 per person. Cornhole Tournament begins Friday at 8 p.m. Cost is $20 per team with 70% cash pay back to the winning teams. Please bring your boards & bags! 

Saturday morning for Breakfast we’re serving fresh eggs and bacon. At 9 a.m. there will be a riders meeting to review trail info and answer questions. Saturday Lunch is served on the trail and there will also be a few drink stops along the way. Photographers will be present to capture your memories. Saturday Dinner is All You Can Eat BBQ & Chicken. Don’t forget about the Live Band Saturday night and complimentary beverage tickets. Sunday during Breakfast we will have the pleasure of enjoying gospel music. 


The ride on Sunday is unorganized on marked trails. We offer hot showers for you and wash racks for your horses. Horse water and porta-potties are available in various locations throughout field. Designated camping areas for generator and non-generator campers. http://www.ameliaspringstrailride.com .

We are located at 7720 Mount Zion Rd. Jetersville, VA. 23083

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Morningside Training Farm April/May Schedule

Morningside Training Farm Spring 2011 Calendar 
April:
April 16, Nina FoutOpen Format Jumping Clinic
May: 
May 4, Sean McQuillian, Open Training Session.
May 7 & 8, Stephen Bradley Gymnastics & XC Jumping
May 13-15 Susan Harris, Centered Riding
May 21, Ellen Shevella, Conformation Clinic
May 28 & 29, Hunt Country Stable Tour, Demos and Lectures including a seminar on Lyme Disease by Dr. Joyce. Advanced Tickets for the stable tour are available for purchase.
May 30, Jo-Ann Wilson, Equine Sports Massage Workshop

Please go to our website, for a detailed list of clinicians and schedules. We now offer a limited number of stalls for daily rental during clinics or events. 

Contact:
Jennifer@morningsidetrainingfarm.com
Morningside Training Farm
5687 Merry Oaks Road (Rte 699)
The Plains, VA 20198
Ph: (540) 347-4777 Fax: (540) 347-9771

Monday, April 11, 2011

USHJA Zone 3 Forum - April 27th

A Zone 3 Forum will be held Wednesday, April 27 at 6pm, at the Virginia Horse Center, Lexington, VA in the Hospitality Center and everyone is invited to attend. Topics that will be discussed and need member input are: How to spend the Zone money from the 2010 Zone Support Fee; Should the zone change the Zone Year from 12/1-11/30 to 10/1-9/30 so that the zone could have finals and give out zone awards or have banquets earlier; New Zone Finals and Championship bonus points and Bid process; Zone Election Process for 2012; Nationalization of Children’s and Adult section update; and New Competition Standards for 2012.

If you have other topics you would like included, please email them to Diane Popp, USHJA Zone Director dpopp@ushja.org and we will be more than happy to discuss the topics.

Friday, April 8, 2011

Glenmore Hunt Club Spring Hunter Pace Saturday, April 16, 2011

Rain Date: Saturday, April 23, 2011

Cottage Hill Farm, Swoope, Virginia

All Riders Welcome
Four Divisions
Entry Fees:
Include lunch
Adult Rider $35
Junior (17 & under) Rider $25
Lunch only (Non-Riders) $6


The Course:
Will be the same for all 4 divisions with jump “go around”
options for non-jumpers. It is well flagged, easy to follow
and approximately 7 miles in length.
Grounds Open: 10 AM
Entries: taken between 10 AM – 1 PM
Start Times: between 11 AM – 1 PM
Lunch Available : between 11 AM – 2 PM
Let us know if you’ll be eating before or after your ride.
Plan to finish ride by: 3 PM
All riders must be in by 3 PM to qualify for awards.
Hilltopper and Trail Rider Divisions :
Slower paced. Follow the marked "go-arounds" before each jump but
jumping is optional, if wearing a helmet.
Hunter and “Junior” Hunter Optimum:
Faster paced. Jumps are optional and not to exceed 3’ feet.
Riders choose to sign up as a single, a pair of 2 or group of 3.
Only 2 riders are eligible for awards per team. Singles can buddy up and
meet new friends. Large groups…sign up in 2’s – 3’s, ride as you wish.
Awards will be given to the top six finishers in each division at the
conclusion of the Pace. Winners will be determined by “closest to
average time” for that division -- ties are broken based on the fastest
time. All riders must be in by 3:00 PM to qualify for awards.

For Additional Information ContactDiane Hicks • 540-292-1195 


Thursday, April 7, 2011

Reedy Creek Hounds Hunter Pace and Trail Ride April 9 and April 23

Saturday, April 9, 2011 and Saturday, April 23, 2011
Teams Will Go Out From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

To be Held at REEDY CREEK FARM
15911 Continental Road, McKenney, VA 23872

The Reedy Creek Hounds invite you to share in exciting ride and friendly competition over a timed, marked course of approximately 10 miles. The course is to be ridden at a safe hunting pace, that is, how you ride when following hounds on a live fox hunt. There will be a one mandatory checkpoint with a 3 minute rest.

Right of way should be yielded to overtaking teams.

Fences do not exceed 3 foot, and all fences have "go rounds" for those riders who do not wish to jump.

Hard hats are required for English Riders.

Entry Fee: $20.00 per person
$15.00 per junior rider

Lunch: $5.00 per person

INFORMATION: Jim Culleton 804-586-3076 or email at Reedycreekfarm@aol.com
Theresa Miller 804-305-1539 or email at Oakwoodfarm839@gmail.com

Teams will depart from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Trophies and ribbons will be awarded to the six teams in each division whose finishing times are closest to the set time on the same course.

DIVISIONS - Open Division Family Division Junior Division

AQHA Dressage


Are you looking to earn points for your Quarter Horse? Why not try Dressage? Dressage was approved as an official AQHA event in 2010. To find out about the program, go to the AQHA website (www.aqha.com).  You can find approved Dressage shows in your area by going to the Show Schedule.  Go to the Manager Resources section to get the details of the program and find out how to earn points.  There is also a free download report entitled ‘Riding Dressage’ to help introduce you to this discipline.  

There are several AQHA-approved shows in Virginia and Maryland for 2011 (as well as shows in other states) and more to come! For more information email Mala Erickson at malaerickson@hotmail.com.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

New! Live Wagering Approved on Strawberry Hill Races!

In a bid to ensure that those in attendance actually realize that there are horses involved, there will be wagering on the Strawberry Hill Races for the first time in 2011.

The Virginia Racing Commission has approved a live racing application that permits pari-mutuel wagering on four Strawberry Hill Races steeplechase races on May 21, 2011 at Colonial Downs in New Kent County. Strawberry Hill’s traditional training flat race, the SFVA Turf Cup, is exempt and will not be available for wagering.

This marks the first time that live, pari-mutuel wagering will be available at the Strawberry Hill Races, which was founded as the Deep Run Races in 1895.

The 79th running of the Strawberry Hill Races will happen the same day as The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore, Maryland.

New in 2010, Pari-mutuel wagering will again be available to Strawberry Hill attendees through Colonial Downs, both on selected simulcast races from throughout the United States as well as the Preakness Stakes. Most of the Pimlico Race Card will be simulcast at the Strawberry Hill Races in real time, with the 136th running of the Preakness Stakes being the grand finale of the day. As a result, gates open later – at 11 a.m., with the first of five Strawberry Hill Races going off at 2:30 p.m.

For complete information, pricing and times, please visit strawberryhillraces.com

Thursday, March 31, 2011

VIRGINIA HORSE INDUSTRY HAS $1.2 BILLION ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today a new study on the Virginia horse industry. A study prepared by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center (WCC) for Public Service and funded by the Virginia Horse Industry Board found that the horse industry in Virginia has an annual economic impact of $1.2 billion. WCC’s Regional Economist Dr. Terance Rephann determined that the equine industry in the Commonwealth continues to expand and its economic impact continues to grow. “The equine industry’s influence is felt in all parts of the state,” said Dr. Rephann. “We see a very positive effect on jobs, recreation, tourism, retail sales and state and local taxation.”

He adds that the largest areas of economic impact continue to be in Northern Virginia with more than 1,600 horse-related jobs in Fauquier and Loudoun Counties. However, the largest employment impact in the state is in Rockbridge Country—the location of the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington. More than 1,330 jobs are industry related in Lexington and Buena Vista. “The horse industry in Virginia generates $65.3 million in state and local taxes,” he said, “with more than 50 percent of that representing state taxes.”

Additional key findings from the just-released equine survey include:
  • The industry generated more than 16,000 jobs in 2010 in Virginia with the greatest effects in the agricultural and ag services sectors, and a lesser effect in the areas of trade and construction.
  • Horse owners spend $873 million annually on horse-related expenses—including feed and bedding, boarding, training, tack, capital improvements and labor. These expenses average $4,060 per horse.
  • Nearly 1,200 horse shows and events were held in Virginia in 2010—generating $25 million in revenue.
  • Some 939,000 people attended Virginia horse shows and competitions last year. Out-of-state participants spent an average of $3,100 per event.
  • Virginia ranks 12th in the nation for numbers of horses.
  • According to the Census of Agriculture Statistics, while the number of farms in Virginia decreased between 1997-2007, the number of farms with horses actually increased from 10,972 to 13,520 during that same period—offsetting a more significant decline in farms in general.
  • Virginia has an estimated 215,000 equines and some 41,000 equine operations.

Equine Rescue League 21st Anniversary Spring Open House May 7th & 8th


At Promise Kept Farm, Lovettsville, VA.
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

The Equine Rescue League marks a milestone this year – over 20 years of service to equines in need and the local community.

This year’s Spring Open House will be a reflection of all the Equine Rescue League has accomplished as well as a celebration of the horses, ponies, donkeys and mules who have come through the farm shelter.  Many magnificent creatures have passed through the League’s facility.  They have been physically and emotionally healed and have gone on to wonderful careers and loving homes. 

The Open House provides an opportunity not only to learn about the League’s rescue, rehabilitation and adoption programs, but to also meet a variety of breeds and horses of all ages that are available for adoption.  Each has their own moving and inspiring story of triumph.

Anyone with an interest in horses is welcome to the Open House.  Whether looking for a new equine addition to the family or not, all are invited to spend time with the horses, enjoy the beautiful Loudoun County countryside and participate in a weekend of fun and activities. 
Activities for the 21st Anniversary Spring Open House include a Parade of Horses, Games, Demonstrations, Used Tack sale, Yard Sale, Bake Sale and Raffles.  Funds raised are used to feed resident horses and provide each with necessary veterinary, farrier and dental care.

The Spring event will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 7th & 8th, 2011 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Promise Kept Farm in Lovettsville, VA.  Admission and parking are free.  To ensure a safe and fun weekend for all, the League asks that visitors not bring their pets to the farm shelter.

For more information, please call 540-822-4577 or e-mail the League at bubbasays2@aol.com.  The Equine Rescue League also maintains a website at www.equinerescueleague.org.