Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 529 i Your Horse

THIS MONTH I had the pleasure of interviewing Kathryn Hulland, an extraordinarily brave mother-of-one who, despite battling incurable cancer, signed up to Your Horse’s #Hack1000Miles 2024/25. She may not have come anywhere near that significant milestone, but she credits our unique campaign with inspiring her to saddle up her own pony, Tigger, while also eagerly adding to a ‘living list’ (Interview, page 12). This wishlist sometimes takes her beyond Britain’s shores to ride in other countries, all of which she adds to her tally. (There are no borders as far as #Hack is concerned and, indeed, riders from every country on the planet are welcome to join us.) I certainly wish I had discovered #Hack before my own equines became OAPs as I once covered myriad miles, usually with my children…

Anyone who has trouble tearing themselves away from horses, even for the shortest holiday, may enjoy the features at an equestrian centre in the Lake District. Greenbank Farm in Grange-over-Sands is offering luxury self-catering stables where equestrians can sleep in a comfy double or single bunk bed with the yard’s Friesian horse or Shetland pony on the other side of a see-through partition (left). The human side has the likes of a mini kitchen, en suite wet room and hot water bottles, while their equine roomie will have their bed close enough to stroke, chat, or feed from the top bunk. A night’s stable stay for three people costs from £350.…

SEARCH FOR A STAR 2025 CLASSES SET FOR LAUNCH Entries are now open for the SEIB Search for a Star and SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse competitions. Search for a Star has its finale at Your Horse Live (7-9 November) and qualifying showing classes for both series start on 13 April at Hartpury. New for 2025 are an in-hand class for traditional, native and rare breeds and an in-hand class for rescue horses and ponies, run in conjunction with the Rescue Equine Showing Society. Visit seib.co.uk/competitions ROR EVENTS FOCUS ON CHALLENGES OF OWNING EX-RACERS Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) has launched a series of unmounted educational and social events across the UK. The quarterly events will be held in each area of the country and will focus on common challenges and…

Everyone can join the Your Horse #Hack1000Miles campaign, whether they are diehard hack enthusiasts who set their sights on the major 1,000-mile mark, or those with time constraints who are aiming for 100 or maybe 250. There is just one rule — that only hacking, or driving, or leading in-hand miles count, so a horse must be involved at all times! #Hack1000Miles is open to riders who head out solo, as well as those who prefer group outings, those who live in the UK or anyone who lives overseas, from Calgary to Copenhagen in fact. All would-be contenders must visit yourhorse.co.uk where they will find the Digital Leaderboard on which miles can be logged and progress charted. For those who prefer something more tangible, they can pencil in their miles…

ROAD TRAFFIC LEVELS are rising. The RAC reports that there were 41.7 million licensed vehicles in the UK at the end of June 2024, a 1% increase from June 2023. Despite a change to the Highway Code in 2022, meaning that drivers should not exceed 10mph when passing a horse, and should pass no closer than 2m, riders still regularly report motorists driving too fast, too close and sometime aggressively past them. And vehicles are not the only danger to horses and riders. The number of dog attacks on horses is also increasing (Your Horse, November 2024, Special News Report). Therefore, how can equestrians stay safe when hacking, and what should they do if an incident occurs? Wearing a camera and filming every time you ride out is a good…

Even though there is a need, few cameras on the market today are made specifically for equestrians. However, plenty of hat and body cams for cyclists and other sportspeople can be adapted to suit riding. WHAT IS RESOLUTION? Resolution is the level of detail in an image, and the higher the resolution number and the richer the pixel count, the more detail and definition can be seen. Resolution is a vital consideration when choosing a camera because if the footage is to be useful following an incident it needs to capture details like number plates and faces. WHAT IS FIELD OF VISION? This refers to the width of the angle of the lens of the camera and the width of the footage it captures. It could prove vital to a…

Emilia Eggar events up to BE100 level with her two horses, Olive and Dawn. She had a successful season in 2024 with several placings and is hoping to build on that further this year. Katie Throup and her 20-year-old Irish Cob x Thoroughbred, Roger, love dressage and compete to elementary and medium level. Helen Milbank has owned her 14hh piebald cob, Tom, since January 2020. He is a 23-year-old ex-riding school pony who now enjoys hacking and light schooling. Helen shares him with her daughter, Georgie. Anna Blacklock owns nine horses, including home-breds, some golden oldies and a miniature Shetland. All are kept out 24/7 so she is out in all weathers taking care of them. She hacks out regularly. Vanessa Lowther has three horses — two ex-racehorses and a…

To enter, visit yourhorse.co.uk/win/ariat529 ARIAT HAS TEAMED up with Your Horse to offer one lucky reader a £1,000 voucher to spend on the new spring/summer collection. Spring is here, and with it comes Ariat’s stunning new spring/summer collection — the perfect blend of performance, style and comfort. And what better way to celebrate the launch than one lucky reader being able to spend their £1,000 Ariat voucher on refreshing their wardrobe with the latest must-haves. From breathable riding apparel to stylish country wear, Ariat’s latest collection is designed to keep equestrians cool and comfortable, whether they are in the saddle, on the yard, or out and about. Expect lightweight layers, moisture-wicking fabrics and bold new colours to brighten up the season. With innovative footwear, breeches, jackets and more, horse lovers…

VET notes WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: • The function of the temporomandibular joint • What can go wrong with it • Methods of diagnosis • How problems are treated MEET THE EXPERT LUCINDA TICEHURST BSc BVMED Sci Hons BVM BVS MRCVS founded LT Equine Veterinary Services in 2020 having graduated from Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science in 2014. Based in Northamptonshire, LT Equine is a first-opinion, ambulatory equine veterinary practice. Lucinda is passionate about all things equestrian and currently owns five horses who she trains and competes in a variety of disciplines, including point-to-point racing and side saddle. For more information, visit LTequinevet.co.uk MISSED A PREVIOUS PART? Buy Your Horse back issues at shop.kelsey.co.uk/ issue/YHR THE WORD ‘TEMPOROMANDIBULAR’ is certainly something of a mouthful! No pun intended — even…

In training look for the small rewards Q When I go into my arena to school my horse I tend to be at a loss for ideas. I always end up doing the same exercises over and over. Can you give me tips for planning a schooling routine and setting targets? Tanya Whittington, Norfolk David says: Firstly, you should explain your situation to your trainer/instructor who will probably be delighted to set some homework for you to do between lessons. However, if you don’t have regular lessons or this isn’t an option, go back to the drawing board and think about what you would like to achieve with your horse… ■ Do you want him to be more forwardthinking? ■ Do you want to help him become more supple in his…

Current evidence is to soak hay for laminitics even after forage analysis Q My son’s pony gains weight really easily and can be prone to laminitis so I’ve always weighed and soaked his hay to reduce the sugar content. My friend has suggested that I could get my hay analysed for its nutritional content as I may not need to keep soaking it. Where, though, can I get it tested and can I trust the results? Martha Cross, North Yorkshire Emma says: Several companies, including some feed manufacturers, offer a forage and pasture analysis service which can help horse owners assess the nutritional contribution that their forage or pasture is making and so inform their choice of supplementary feed. There are a number of tests that can be carried out, from…

Tell us about your books and what prompted you to start writing fiction. I’ve always enjoyed writing. In fact, I used to write funny poems about my school teachers to make my friends laugh. I was often asked to write poems when all my family got together, too. It was great fun. When I started a family, I toyed with the idea of making up my own rhyming stories for my children. When my youngest daughter started school and the house was suddenly quiet, that’s exactly what I did. I self-published my first books, and I would take stands at competitions such as Burghley and head off in my horsebox to sell my books. It was perfect. I could get all my stock in the back of the horse area,…

For all the latest news from the horse world, visit yourhorse.co.uk The government response to a petition calling for better protection for horses “shows concerning disregard for the potential consequences of uncontrolled dogs” campaigners have said. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) stated that it “recognises that dog attacks can have horrific consequences, and it takes this issue very seriously”, but it has no plans to require all dogs to be on leads around horses. “There is a careful balance to be struck between protecting the wider public and their horses from dog attacks, the freedom people enjoy when walking their dogs, and the welfare of those dogs, including the freedom to exhibit normal behaviours,” said Defra in its response. However, Victoria Privett — who set up…

Drugs being developed to treat people paralysed by snake venom will be used on horses with equine grass sickness (EGS) this spring to see if they can assist with recovery. Last year researchers at the Royal (Dick) Vet School in Edinburgh discovered that the same neurotoxin that causes EGS (phospholipase A2) is found in snake venom, and at the National Equine Forum (NEF), held in early March, Prof Bruce McGorum of the university announced the treatment trial. “We are collaborating with the WHO Global Snakebite Initiative, which was set up to address the needs of people with snakebite across the world,” Bruce said. “There is a drug they are using in a trial in India this year which we plan to use in a small group of horses with acute…

EVERYONE WHO LOVES to hack will be excited to hear that the new 2025/26 #Hack1000Miles campaign is set for launch. Apart from the obvious benefits of a mounting tally of miles acting as a confidence booster, a bond builder between horse and rider and horizons being widened, there is a plethora of prizes to be won too. To one of the elite band who passes the 1,000-mile mark, longstanding #Hack sponsor Wintec is offering a fantastic saddle — and they will be spoilt for choice. Wintec saddles come in a wide range — from general purpose and endurance to dressage and jumping — but perhaps two that will appeal to hack enthusiasts are… THE WINTEC 2000 ALL PURPOSE The rider will sink into the super-soft deep seat of the Wintec…

TIGGER, WINNIE THE Pooh’s hyperactive friend, is an unendingly bouncing rubber ball in toy tiger form. AA Milne’s inspired energetic creation first found fame in books before his hurricane-like persona went stellar in Disney’s cartoon renderings. Generations of children have adored Tigger, including Kathryn Hulland. In fact, the Devon-based horse lover thought so highly of the stripy tornado that she chose the same name for the Dartmoor Hill foal she purchased almost 20 years ago. This 12.3hh equine equivalent is still in Kathryn’s life today and she says: “I bought a numnah for him that had the words ‘Tiggers Like to Bounce’. Thankfully he wasn’t too bouncy when I got around to backing him, but he was sensitive to pressure and he had the odd bounce around as we learned…

Sandra Wilson: “I wear a Techalogic DC-1 front and rear hat cam. I reported a driver who, when passing, accelerated, making my pony spook at the roar of the engine. I sent off the footage to the police which clearly showed the car’s number plate, but I never heard from them.” Lana Hannah: “I wear a Chilli-Tech Bullet Cam when riding. However, the two reports I’ve submitted have elicited no response from either the police or county council — and barely an acknowledgement. I will continue to wear it as a deterrent to drivers, though, but I don’t believe we are taken seriously in Norfolk.” Mike Mills: “About 12 months ago a car passed me going down hill towards a blind bend and didn’t slow down. I shared my filming…

The Gamble that paid off This is Gamble, a wise old soul at my local riding school. Although an injury keeps him from being ridden for now, I love walking him in-hand, plus our grooming sessions and the opportunity to simply be with him. He always brings a sense of peace to my day. Becky Renwick, East Yorkshire Let’s raise a glass to Brandy! My precious boy Brandy is 32 years old and he’s been with me from a yearling. Zoe Clark, County Durham Perfectly matched Whizz is a 13-year-old cob who has been my best friend for eight years — hence the matching hats. Whizz is the perfect all-rounder, taking part in the likes of clean boot hunting, showing and dressage. We also love a good plod in the…

To enter, visit yourhorse.co.uk/win/FreeSpace529 FIRST THOUGHT EQUINE Ltd, the maker of WOW Saddles, is offering two lucky readers a stunning new FreeSpace snaffle bridle, each worth £435. These bridles are uniquely constructed to ensure the horse’s comfort, giving him the space and support to work in a soft, still and consistent contact. The purpose of a traditional bridle — to hold the bit comfortably in the horse’s mouth and allow clear communication to and from the rider — can be difficult to achieve. The horse’s head has a very complex anatomy and avoiding all the sensitive areas while ensuring stability of contact without restriction isn’t easy, but it is essential for the horse’s comfort and this forms the basis for a successful partnership between horse and rider. The new FreeSpace…

Certifying clothing gives credibility to eco claims Q My New Year’s resolution was to become more ‘green’ and I’m trying to do so where my horse is concerned, but what does it mean when riding clothes are considered to be ‘eco-friendly’? Jane Chapman, Somerset Liz says: Generally speaking, the term eco-friendly when applied to clothing means that the garment is made with care for the environment and with people’s welfare in mind. Eco-friendly clothing can embrace several areas, including fabric creation, manufacturing, production and even the care instructions (for example, machine washable at low temperatures rather than dry cleaning). Organic raw materials, such as bamboo, hemp and recycled textiles, are eco-friendly fabric examples. Garments that don’t use harmful chemicals in their manufacturing process are also good examples. Choosing certified clothing gives…

Forestry England has introduced free access at all but two of its woodlands to riders across England. From May, horse riders can hack through 49 more woodlands without needing a permit following consultation with riders and equestrian groups. Mike Seddon, Forestry England’s chief executive, commented: “This will make horse riding accessible to more riders across the nation’s forests.” The two sites that will keep paid permits are Bramshill in Hampshire/Berkshire and Hodgemoor Woods in Buckinghamshire, which Forestry England said are ecologically sensitive wildlife sites and need extra management. Mark Weston, director of access at The British Horse Society (BHS), said: “This is a great step towards allowing equestrians the freedom to explore and enjoy our nation’s countryside.” To find out more, visit forestryengland.uk/activities/horse-riding…

Two-year-old Roland was severely underweight and suffering from an infected castration wound when he was offered for sale on social media. Now he’s a playful, friendly pony who does tricks. “He was in dire need. There was no way that we could ignore him,” said Leah Hammond, who, with her grandmother Diane Barclay-Bernard, runs White Horse Stables Horse Rescue in Robertsbridge, East Sussex. “He was very underweight, with a severe worm burden and a very sore infection from a botched castration. He was lethargic and unhappy.” After making an arrangement with the seller, the charity crowdfunded the money for Roland to be transported from Somerset and he was seen by a vet immediately. BEFORE AFTER “He needed antibiotics and pain relief and we had him tested for infectious disease, which…

#Hack enthusiast Pip Mead, who lives on the beautiful North York Moors, where she regularly rides, is a recent winner of a Wintec saddle, and she says: “I chose the Pro Endurance for my prize as it seemed exactly right for hacking 1,000 miles. I completed my miles on Roandale Archie, a Dales pony, and my saddlefitter, Sarah Rymer, came out and fitted the Pro Endurance. Both she and I were very impressed with it. It’s a really comfy saddle for both Archie and I, and up to the end of February we had ridden over 100 miles in it. I would recommend it to anybody.”…

Your Horse’s #Hack1000Miles has been a favourite with hundreds of riders over the years, inspiring them to ride far further than they had ever dreamed possible and encouraging them to push themselves to the limit. People who love to hack say that they have never come across a better initiative to get them up and out with their horse, especially when miserable conditions mean that the indoors beckons. Anyone still unsure about signing up only needs to take a look at our gallery of happy challengers below and think what fun there is to be had. To join us, visit yourhorse.co.uk/hacking/hack-1000-miles/ today…

Equestrians who wear tabards and exercise rugs (below) that state they are filming can be an added cue to drivers to take care around horses, according to Sarah Gray of Rider Eye. “Not all cameras are obvious to someone driving behind you, but if you have a tabard or rug it is very clear,” she says. “Once they see the speed camera sign they slow down. “It’s crucial to have evidence from a camera if things go wrong, but it’s even better to avoid the incident in the first place.”…

WHEN IT COMES to riding on roads and bridleways, safety should always be a top priority. High vis clothing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure that both horse and rider are seen by drivers, cyclists and other road users. Additionally, if the rider and their four-legged partner do part company, high vis gear can actually make them both easier to spot in an emergency. Whether hacking out on country lanes or crossing busy roads, wearing the right high vis can make all the difference to helping the equestrian stay safe. High vis is also something that should be worn all year round, whatever the weather, and not just during those grey, gloomy days of winter. To celebrate the launch of Your Horse’s #Hack1000Miles 2025/26 campaign,…

How I make it work: Thanks to a great team of knowledgeable horsemen The Sandalwood Stables head explains why she has ‘the best job in the world’ and what path took her to Sumba, an island in Eastern Indonesia. My job… I’m an equine welfare advocate and consultant/head of Sandalwood Stables at Nihi Sumba Hotel on the island of Sumba, Indonesia. My job involves developing standard operating procedures, enhancing guest experiences and creating new equestrian activities. I also handle bookings, match the right riders to the right horses, teach beachside riding lessons, and create joyful moments for children with pony play sessions. I’m supported by a team of 15 skilled Sumbanese horsemen who care for the horses. I’m also co-founder of the Sandalwood horse charity. The unique combination of working…

Caring for senior horses is a journey filled with love, dedication and unique challenges. Spillers understands the special place older horses hold in equestrians’ hearts, which is why the company has created the Spillers’ Super Seniors’ Club — a supportive community for horse owners who share the same passion for keeping their senior horses happy and healthy. Whether that horse is thriving in retirement, remains active, or is showing signs of ageing, the team is available to provide expert guidance, practical advice and a platform on which to celebrate a horse’s golden years. Join today and connect with other horse owners. Visit the Facebook group Spillers’ Super Seniors’ Club to get started.…

Email your questions to yh.ed@kelsey.co.uk Simple solutions for horse owners DRESSAGE David Rumsey is an international dressage rider, trainer and a British Dressage judge based in the south east of England. He has experience training riders from novice level to grand prix. David is passionate about sharing his expertise and love of horses with clients so that they can get the best out of their equine partners. CLOTHING/FASHION Liz Hayman is the MD and designer of British equestrian fashion brand Equetech. A lifelong horse owner herself, Liz has decades of expertise in designing award-winning equestrian clothing for riders across the globe. Visit equetech.com QUADRILLE Anette Whitehouse enjoys riding club dressage classes. She also recently took up showjumping again, with Spotless, her Appaloosa. She is a former chair and now vice-chair…

Quadrille suits riders who are team players Q A friend at the yard is talking about having a go at quadrille. I don’t like to ask her in case I sound ignorant, but what exactly is quadrille and what type of horse do you need to do it? Suzi Stevens, Hertfordshire Anette says: Quadrille is also known as formation riding or a musical ride. It is basically a sequence of synchronised movements conducted in unison by a group of riders and horses. It may be commanded, sometimes it is accompanied by music and the riders may be in uniforms or dressed up. Quadrille originates from ancient warfare. People started to ride horses into battle in around 900BC, and survival and victory depended upon accurate riding in total unison. An enemy horse…

SPRING ISN’T JUST for cleaning — it’s for upgrading that wardrobe! A coat or those riding tights may have survived the winter chills, but will they hold up in the style stakes of spring? If not, the time has definitely come to refresh that clothing collection for the new season. Spring 2025 has brought a wave of lightweight layers, breathable fabrics and stylish and yet practical designs to the fore to keep equestrians comfortable in and out of the saddle. Whether technical performance wear or stylish equestrian fashion rows the rider’s particular boat, or versatile and practical pieces that transition seamlessly from stable to town are on their wishlist, companies everywhere have been putting together bold new collections that answer all of these questions and more. So, whether in search…