FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY NOV 2016 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

EDITOR’S NOTE

Dear Readers,

It was hectic but it was fun. Th e exacting exercise has started to throw up good results. It still is a long journey and we are confi dent that we will scale a new high in our breeding operations and provide the top Indian riders a perfect platform to catapult to fame.

Th e second Foal Championship is much bigger and better and we are immensely pleased with the response the Foal Championship has garnered in the equestrian circles. Th e arrival of a top pedigree grey Capo Cassione and the top quality Pony stallion Pilatus has generated big buzz and it will not be long before an Indian bred Sporthorse will be on the high road.

Th e thunder of hooves we understand provides a lyrical ring to all the horse lovers and we have left no stone unturned in our endeavor to facilitate the equestrian buff s. A new look Equestrian Times magazine with informative and topical National and International editorial content will be released and I’m most pleased with the result.

India has taken a giant step forward in the game and this has been appreciated in the International equestrian circuit. However, stringent policies and the cost factor involved in importing horses from Europe, do pose a few problems but we are prepared to address these issues while making our journey to the top.

Th e Sporthorse Studbook has provided the window India needed to showcase the breeding operations. Th e Studbook off ers in-depth breeding consultancy, registrations of warmblood foals and issuing of passports for foals born in India. To simply put it, it provides the right pedestal on the international platform.

Well all said and done, the count-down for the show-down at sun-down on Sunday, Nov 27 has begun and we certainly are looking forward to the big day.

Yours,

LARA BECKER

2 3 Equestrian Times Sports Equestrian Times

Nov - 2016

INDEX EIRS SETS

SPORTS - NATIONAL EIRS sets bullion standard 5 BULLION India, now set to “Sport” Ponies 8 Style and substance 10 Successfully donning two hats 11 STANDARD When the going gets tough, only the tough get going 12 05 On top of his game 13 Ready to make the big league 14 SPORTS - INTERNATIONAL A legendary show-stopper 15 Old is gold 16 Formula One of - The Longines 18 Celebrating Global Superstars Champions Tour 20

BREEDING 22 History of Sport Horse Breeding 22

A warm German connection 25

‘Saddling up’ is the EXPORT AND FEATURE new exciting and raging hobby, or sport with today’s It is time EFI facilitates import of horses 26 youngsters. With the Many exciting sports on horse 30 fast-growing popularity of this sport and kids Horse Body Language 34 26 registering or wanting to register into riding schools in large numbers, there seems to be a rise in the Editorial concept and style: Ikram Khan establishment of new riding schools in the EQUESTRIAN TIMES country. Contact: Lara Becker Email: [email protected] Design & Production Website: www.equestrian-times.com Equestrian Times is an independant Indian newsletter issued by Sport Horse Stud Book India LLP 4 5 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

you can expect to come out with a • A range of leisure, entertainment providing a platform to riders to basic understanding of the animals and hospitality activities, celebrate a increase their fitness and confidence and the sport. While horses and riding birthday or anniversary, or a weekend levels, with the ultimate aim of making is a ton of fun, there are things you on our sprawling campus, or at our riders internationally competitive should know that are important for outdoor tented guest camps, or dine in Equestrian Sports. This is the 7th your safety, the horse’s safety, and the at Ai Cavalli, one of the city’s long- consecutive year of the tournament. safety of others riding with you”. standing Italian restaurants, widely known for its simple, rustic appeal and At an International level, EIRS delivers delicious home-style cooking. its best to the sport, promoting riders At EIRS we have an answer to all such through Equs India, a wing which queries, a beginner or intermediate Equestrian sport - promoted at a sponsors potential talent, helping would have apprehensions about: national and international level them participate in Equestrian disciplines abroad and preparing them • Structured riding lessons for all At a national level EIRS promotes for competitions such as the Olympics levels, from beginner to advanced, the sport through Equestrian and the Asian Games. Ajai Appachu, conducted by highly qualified BHS Premier League -a tournament, Fouad Mirza and Nadia Haridas, who Instructors holding Dressage and Show Jumping represented India at the Asian Games, competitions. It is aimed at raising are a few names that the school has • Pony Club activities for children of the Equestrian standards in India, produced with pride and will continue all ages in this endeavour.

Chairman and Managing Director Embassy Group, Jitu Virwani

The trend of ‘horse love’ seems to All things considered, Embassy and hence this has resulted in many have set in, however there looms a International riding school horses new riding schools being established in cloud of apprehension for the many may in fact be a good option, whether Bangalore. But not many cater to both who are interested. Taking riding you’re a beginner/intermediate rider the queries due to the infrastructure, lessons on school horses is an option or you are returning to riding after a facility and programs offered for or last resort? A learning method that’s break. School horses are also a great learning and training. inferior to owning or leasing your own way to keep a foot in the stirrup, so to horse? Something strictly for kids and/ speak, if you are going off to college, Just like with any sport, you have to or the greenest adult beginners? starting a family, building a career, or learn the fundamentals of horses and living through any other transitional riding before you can move on. When Think again. Good school-horse period when ownership is not possible. you start with beginner riding lessons, programs, such as offered by the Embassy International Riding School, Embassy International Riding School, have much to offer the serious rider the largest private equine academy in in today’s world, who’s desire to ride India, offers you the horses, courses Good school-horse may be strong but who’s time, energy, and the infrastructure to learn, develop programs, such as offered and financial resources to do so, and ace your interest and talent for maybe limited. School horses provide riding. Run according to British Horse by the Embassy International learning with no strings attached: no Society (BHS) standards. EIRS sports Riding School, have much board bills, no maintenance hassles, a 240-acre campus in Devanahalli, to offer the serious rider in no guilt over missed days at the barn. just 27 km north of the city, with today’s world, who’s desire to Moreover, school horses”packers” by immediate proximity to the Bangalore ride may be strong but who’s definition, allow you to concentrate International Airport. time, energy, and financial on yourself. They make it possible for you to nail the basics, such as position Silva Storai, Director, Embassy resources to do so, maybe and balance, more quickly and solidly International Riding School says, limited. than you might on a less cooperative “There is a rise in enquiries and animal. registrations for horse riding lessons

6 7 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times India, now set to “SPORT” PONIES Ameen Khan Stallions 2017 being showcased for the fi rst time to the public at the Foal Championship this year, we would be announcing the riding and breeding programs”.

Silva Storai, Director, Embassy Interna- tional Riding School, “Th e need was sited post the Foal auction held last year, the success brought us to learn that breeding of sport horses is very appreciated in the coun- try and the want for great quality of horses is become a must as many youngsters are taking a liking towards the sport, resulting Unbreakable Z Comerade in the growing number of young riders and *2011 by Untouched x Centauer x Nimmerdor *2012 by Castino x Calido I x Calypso I if their companion is a class A bloodline International top genes for highest demands Premium stallion of the Oldenburg animal, it only helps in craft ing their skills, licensing in Vechta 2014 graduating to intermediate and advanced levels of the sport”.

Owning a sporthorse is now much more ndia has not been alien to aff ordable and easy, thanks to the newly es- fully grown horse ponies, tablished studbook and breeding programs I in India. Th e riding community today can they have been introduced train and level their class, preparing them- to some of us as Manipuri selves for international circuits, were the Pony, a descendant of the need for a quality horse is mandatory. Asian wild horse. Th e pony breeders of Manipur rear this Th e breeders promoting the sport in an ef- animal in semi-wild system Cazaan Capo Cassione fort to up the game, have now decided to till today. What makes this *2012 by Casall x Clarimo x Cassini I *2002 by Cassini I x Lavall II x Raimondo give the learners the same quality and class local Indian breed diff erent Superior son of the Holstein top progenitor Outstanding Holstein showjumping of horses so that they hit the ‘perform’ and Casall progenitor by the legendary Cassini I ‘compete’ button at a young age. from the Sporthorse pony is a unique animal which is an Sporthorse ponies is their formula. A Sport inhabitant of the Indo-Burma Pony is 14.2 hands or less in height, with the region. Mega bio-diversity conformation, movement, rideability and hot-spot of the world has type, to excel in the Olympic Equestrian been in existence since pre- International Horseagency GmbH, disciplines of dressage, jumping, eventing breeding goals similar to the standards of historic era. Used mainly the German Riding Pony, the fi rst Sport- and combined driving. Originally devel- for transportation, polo Goethestr. 7a, 41515 Grevenbroich oped in in the early 1960’s, this horse studbook in India aims to produce a games, festivals and warfare. Germany Riding Pony, also known as Deutches Re- noble and correct pony with dynamic, spa- itpony, is graded and tested at inspection cious and elastic movement - well suited for Manipuri pony height 11 to 13 tests, for the individual Reitpony registries, dressage, show jumping and eventing for hand high (1 hand = 4 inches Lara Becker much the same as for the diff erent Europe- its temperament, character and rideability. approx.), short back, good Tel.: +49 (0) 157 82 09 07 88 an warmblood and sport horse registries. Lara Becker of Sport Horse Studbook said, shoulder, deep girth and well Th e German Riding Pony is the admitted “Embassy International Riding School will developed hind quarters is Casual Z model of the new Sport Pony registries that be the fi rst riding school in the country that sure-footed and sturdy. Email: [email protected] is just going to start in India. Meeting the will be stabling these sport horse ponies, *2013 by Cassini II x Chellano Z x Cambridge The next generation top performance breeding www.international-horseagency.de 8 out of the famous Holstein dam line 18 A2 9 EquestrianSports Times Equestrian Times NATIONAL

ZEESHAN MALIK Successfully TANISHKA KHATAOKAR donning Style and substance two hats IKRAM KHAN IKRAM KHAN

She has both style and substance. And she believe that I have the ability to excel in is one of the most promising talents on this game,” said Tanishka pointing out, One of the most consistent and talented represented my school in Football, but train in England he asked me if I was the equestrian circuit. Tanishka Khata- that it was Ajai and Nadia who played a performers on the Indian Equestrian cir- what I really loved to do was ride a horse willing to shift to Bengaluru and take okar, in the opinion of most pundits, will stellar role in her successful journey. cuit, Zeeshan Malik, now dons two hats, and I chose that and the journey so far up the instructor’s job at EIRS on off er. I scale a new high and the sprightly young rider and instructor and the 23-year-old with the horses has been great,” said Zee- jumped at it and the decision brought me Tanishka who to her credit has many lass is aiming high. The Mumbaikar, who Bhopal boy who has made Bengaluru his shan who is nursing a big dream to win a both glory and fame,” said Zeeshan who golds, dominating the Dressage event in has made Bengaluru her base, has set her base, is enjoying his dual role and the gold for India in the next Asian Games. along with the chief coach Normund, en- EPL and the junior national event, loves goals and has taken the big stride ahead, Embassy International Riding School joys his coaching stint. to read and spend time with the horses. to accomplish her mission. (EIRS), who roped him two summers ago, “I don’t think it is a tough task. Th e Indi- in top international events, before she are immensely pleased with the quality an riders are good and all we need is the When posed with the question:” Will After her parents, Swati and Sanjay pro- quickly struck a fine partnership with “She loves horses and she has struck a the boy has provided to the best riding international exposure and the advanced the breeding of Sporthorses help the In- vided her the first saddle to fame, Tanish- her horse Silvano and the two produced perfect bond with Silvano. We moved to school in the business, competing suc- coaching to get it right on the big interna- dian riders?” Zeeshan who to his credit, ka has made rapid progress, learning the many heart warming performances, to Bengaluru from Mumbai mainly because cessfully while donning the EIRS colours tional stage and I believe we have it in us has recorded a 1.70M eff ort in Puissance ropes under the care of Ajai Appachu and the delight of the EIRS camp. we found Tanishka very happy with the in the major competitions and providing to win at the Asian level,” said Zeeshan in the Delhi Horse Show fi ve years back, Nadia Haridass and is now ready to pa- horses at EIRS and slowly yet surely, she the tips on the fi ner points of the game to pointing out that the Embassy boss Jitu shot back that breeding pedigree Sport- rade her talent on the big stage. In the first week of November, Tanishka started to ride. Now we realise that she reigned supreme in the FEI World Chal- is doing what she loves best, that is riding the young hopefuls who are learning the Virwani is providing all the help, training horses and warmbloods will put India on A good seven summers ago, the Mount lenge Dressage for South Zone and the and spending time with the horses and basics under the care of Zeeshan. and coaching at the United Kingdom and the international map and with the best Carmel College student got her first leg- sublime effort from the rising star has we are happy that we have helped nurse Germany and in the year ahead a couple of horses to ride and compete, the Indian up in Malaysia, her mother Swati enroll- provided the desired confidence to make her dream, said Swati who willingly pro- Zeeshan started to ride at the age of six of riders will realise Jitu Virwani’s dream. riders will be on a level playing fi eld. ing the horse lover in a week-long riding her presence felt on the international vides Tanishka the encouragement and in Bhopal, cantering a couple of horses in stint in Malaysia before the top Dres- stage. support while monitoring her academics. the Delhi Public School before he struck a Th e biggest plus point, Zeeshan reckons “ A couple of years earlier, we Indian rid- sage lass joined Amateur Rider’s Club in bond with the horses and the boy simply is that the Indian riders are brave and ers didn’t have the horses to showcase Mumbai. After a one year stint she moved “ I competed in the United Kingdom in Spurred by the success in the FEI Dres- fell in love with the horses. are ready to partner the warmbloods the our skills in international meets. Th e to Bengaluru, impressed with the train- May. Participating in the Western Lawns sage event, Tanishka is looking forward moment they get an opportunity to hone thoroughbreds we competed on failed ing and riding facilities at the Embassy Show I was adjudged best in the newcom- to top the zone and gain the ticket to Zeeshan’s Grand Pa M H Rehman Malik their skills and that normally doesn’t to match warmbloods but now with the International Riding School (EIRS). er’s category, before I finished second in compete in the FEI finals. She is one of was a good Polo player and played the happen in Europe revealed Zeeshan. Th e stock on hand we have a great chance,” the Open category. The effort, I must the favourites to score and the knowl- sport with the Nawab Of Pataudi and that winner of the FEI Dressage this year, Zee- said Zeeshan Malik before walking off to After joining EIRS, Tanishka with her admit, provided a shot in-the-arm. The edgeable are of the view that all Tanishka was how Zeeshan developed a liking and shan disclosed that he was lucky to make help a fi rst timer get a leg-up at the school. soft hands and good seat impressed both exposure and the experience I gained pa- needs to do is keep focus and it will not be got close to the horses before he decided the trip to EIRS, Bengaluru. “ I in many Nadia and Ajai, who is down in the Unit- rading my skills in the United Kingdom, long before she will carry India’s flag high to make a career in equestrian sport. “I national events was competing with Ajai ed Kingdom training and competing just put me on a different level and I now and proud in the years ahead. was state medallist in skating and I also Appachu and when Ajai was picked to

10 11 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

BASAVA R AJ U When the going gets tough, only the tough get going

Ameen Khan

Where there is a will, there is a way. And his hand up for the job we readily took JIBRAN KHAN who said that the Equestrian sport is only him in,” said Silva Storai adding that the for the rich and the low income families promising youngster spends more than cannot afford it. Most talented riders in eight hours each day with the horses, the cash-rich flat racing have come from coaching, training and riding. ON TOP OF HIS GAME poor backgrounds and the 20-year-old IKRAM KHAN Basavaraju Sangappa, son of a retired se- A final year Arts student at the Yelahan- curity employee at the Embassy Interna- ka Govt. College, Basavaraju recorded his tional Riding School (EIRS) is one such in first success in the JNEC championship After his impressive performance in the ries of medal winning efforts before the knowledgeable stand up and acknowl- the EIRS camp. in Delhi, before he won the Dressage and ECE Challenge championship, with three young lad enjoyed his maiden success edge the ability of the youngster who is Jumping Golds at Kolkata. When the going gets tough, it is the tough golds, the talented Jibran Khan who is in the Bangalore Junior Nationals, five ready to make the big league. ECE direc- now a force to reckon with in the equestri- months after his first leg-up at the Udhag- tor Sanya Khan and her hubby Rehan, big who get going and it really was tough for Training under the care of the Bristish in- an circles, produced his best, winning the amandalam. From then on, it proved to equestrian buffs, delighted with the prog- Basavaraju who first started to ride po- structor Normunds in the absence of Ajai nies in the EIRS yard, at the age of eight. Regional Equestrian League (REL) event be a run for the roses for this promising ress made by their star son, provided the who is training in the United Kingdom, top EIRS riders, Ajai Appachu and Nadia with a 1.3M effort in the EPL league, to ECE rider, training under the care of the encouragement and support and Jibran Basavaraju who to his credit, has a 1.35 His parents, Sangappa and Vidyavathi, Haridass, played a big role in his gradua- gain a ticket to compete in the Senior Na- ECE head coach, Nitin Gupta. readily justified their confidence, advanc- working as a gardener at the Stonehill In- tion to the top. clearance is all praise for Normunds. “He tionals scheduled to be held in Feb, next ing and making his presence felt against ternational School, needless to say, could has the experience and he knows what is year in Meerut. A year later, the talented young rider af- the best of his age on the circuit. not afford the training and riding fees. “I’m still learning and I know I have needed to make a mark on the interna- ter gaining the exposure and experience a long way to go before I make the big The Embassy Group encouraged and sup- tional scene. And he makes you comfort- The most improved star performer on required to strut his stuff against the best, “He loved to ride horses and we are happy league. I want to get there and with Ajai the circuit, Jibran first started at the Ooty made his coach Nitin and his parents ported the young boy. The EIRS think- able while he guides and provides you the with the progress Jibran has made in the tank spearheaded by Embassy Group and Nadia on my side, I hopefully will horse show, five summers ago. The -ex Rehan and Sanya Khan proud, winning finer points of the game,” said Basavaraju. game,” said Sanya delighted that her son chief Jitu Virwani and director Silva Sto- make the grade in the years ahead,” said ercise gave the new kid on the block the his first gold in the Junior Nationals and topped the REL event and earned his pas- rai, aware that the boy was keen and eager Basavaraju. confidence required to start his journey helped his team win a gold and two silvers Basavaraju disclosed that all he has done sage to Meerut. and more importantly loved the horses, in this rough and tough sport and the in the team championships. This superb Realising that it will pay to make it a learn is thanks to Jitu Virwani and the Embas- decided to sponsor the exercise and Basa- promising young rider quickly picked up effort caught the eye of most equestrian sy Group. At EIRS they are always look- After winning more then 50 medals in varaju has returned handsome dividend and earn exercise, Basavaraju took up the the ropes to make progress on the desired pundits, who made it clear that Jibran is a ing to provide opportunities and I’m glad different championships around the to the investment made, winning a bag- junior instructor’s job at EIRS and is now lines. new star of the horizon. that I grabbed the opportunity which country in his five year stint in the sport, ful of medals in the National equestrian providing riding lessons to the beginners championships. While one applauds the in the morning, before training in the came my way and hopefully, I will bring After the start at the Blue Mountains, The youngster maintained his winning Jibran has set his eyes on the FEI chal- effort of the unassuming Basavaraju, the evening. “He understands that he needs laurels to the riding school,” signed off young Jibran competing in South Indi- streak in the months ahead, climbing lenge competition. “This is one big inter- rising star quickly points out that the two to support his parents and when he put Basavaraju. an equestrian and the Embassy Premier up the ladder and consistently knocking national challenge and I’m eager to make League championships produced a se- at the doors of success which made the my mark in a FEI event,” said Jibran.

12 13 Equestrian Times Sports Equestrian Times INTERNATIONAL

MAHIRA FURNITUREWALA READY TO MAKE THE BIG LEAGUE

IKRAM KHAN

She is brave, gutsy and strong. And she is “Mark my words. The progress Mahira willing to go the distance. The 16-year- has made and the willingness she proj- old Mahira Furniturewala has set a few ects to achieve her goals separates her targets and she is determined to hit the from the rest. She is very focussed and a bulls-eye, in the years ahead. strong rider and on her day she will beat the best,” said Nitin pointing out that she The braveheart at the age of six held prom- enjoys the sport and is always giving her ise cantering a few horses at the Amateur 100 percent. Rider’s Club at Mahalaxmi race course in CHARLOTTE DUJARDIN Mumbai and today she is one of the most Chosen to compete in the Iranian Eques- promising girls on the equestrian circuit, trian championship in Teheran, Mahira consistently producing top drawer efforts produced a satisfactory effort. “Compet- in all the major championships. ing against the best in Teheran boosted A LEGENDARY SHOW-STOPPER Mahira started first with Dressage before my confidence and the exposure and the she developed a liking to Show Jumping experience I gained from this trip really One of the legends in the game,Charlotte After the exemplary winning routine, was an emotional drama after the compe- after watching her team-mates parade helped. I now was more confident and Dujardin was on top of the world after she it was an anxious wait. Her arch rival, tition had finished, Charlotte’s boy friend their skills in the National Junior Eques- ready to take on the best,” said Mahira. pulled out all stops and placed herself on the formidable six-times Olympic gold and fiance, Dean Wyatt Golding, a former trian Championship (JNEC) in Kolkata top of the summit retaining her individual medallist Isabell Werth of Germany was marathon runner and triathlete, unveiled A couple of gold winning efforts at the in 2011. Grand Prix dressage medal at Rio’s Olym- performing last and Isabell was in with a T-shirt with the slogan “Can we get mar- Embassy Premier League (EPL), followed pic Equestrian centre with a stunning a chance to topple Charlotte. Isabell, ried now?” Dujardin later confirmed this by her fine showing in the Equestrian Next competing in the Pune Nationals round on Valegro. Her winning score of who has a chequered doping past having was not actually a proposal as they are in the Dressage, Mahira won the bronze Challenge helped Mahira gallop to fame. 93.857 was the third highest of all time, served a six-month suspension from the already engaged, simply an expression of before she took the big stride ahead to The top gun who loves Western Music beaten only by herself. The best horse sport in 2009 after a banned substance mild impatience. participate in the Show Jumping events. and is always game for a game of basket- woman in the baking Rio sun produced was found in her horse, had finished with The shift in time brought the talented rid- ball now has set her eyes to gain the tick- her best which saw the knowledgeable the top score in the team event last week. She will now have time for such things er fame, Mahira competing against the et to Youth Olympics in Argentina. This “Mark my words. The stand up and provide a standing ovation Here she produced a fine ride of her own after gold in Rio confirmed her own best, winning the bronze in the Benga- arts student from Mount Carmel college to the best woman of the show. Charlotte but could only manage to finish second progression from novice champion in lure Nationals next year. This proved to progress Mahira has made according to most old hats in the game, is indeed was a Show-Stopper. behind Charlotte. For Charlotte, the re- 2012 to the sport’s outstanding star, the be the tonic the sprightly lass needed, and and the willingness she in with a definite chance to make the trip. sult is the culmination of four years of Muhammed Ali of dressage, a Mahira in the next four years established projects to achieve her goals And for that to happen Mahira needs to Dujardin in the 18 competitors Dressage transformative dressage during which she game-changing performer. herself as one of the most promising rid- keep focus and strive hard to get to the final, performed a secretive new routine has raised the bar for the sport and con- ers on the Indian equestrian scene. separates her from the rest. next level. Going by her track record she seen only once in public shortly before the firmed her status as its great innovator “It is a great feeling and I really had a great Training at the Equestrian Centre For She is veryfocussed and a will do that without really raising a sweat. Games. She produced a stunning display and current all-round superstar. time. I knew that this could be the last of conjoined, expressive homo-equine with Valegro, so I decided to go out there Excellence (ECE), Mahira impressed strong rider and on her day “Now that she has set her eyes on making head coach Nitin Gupta and Nitin made balletics, drawing cheers from a packed “I’ve been riding Valegro since he was and enjoy it, never mind the result. I think she will beat the best,” it to Argentina, we know that she will give no secret of his opinion that this girl from crowd before coming back in tears from five years old. He has remained unbeat- he knew what I was thinking because he it a good shot to get there,” said her dad ECE has tremendous scope for improve- the arena. Charlotte had carved a niche for able and won everything there is to win. I really looked after me and helped me,” Sharif Furniturewala while her mother ment and it will not be long before she herself in the annals of the game on Vale- want people to remember him as the most said Dujardin. Mehjabeen, agreed with her husband. dons the Indian colours. gro, a horse that has been her constant amazing horse that he is and Valegro will companion. now retire,” Charlotte confirmed. There

14 15 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

NICK SKELTON OLD IS GOLD Skelton won Britain’s first individual ing about this and planning it since Lon- ment, but he came back to prominence show -jumping gold medal in Olympic don four years ago. “I never had a worry when he helped Britain win team gold history following a stunning perfor- this morning, I’ve not had a worry all alongside , and Pe- mance in Deodoro.And the 58-year-old, week and I really knew this horse would ter Charles in London four years ago. from Alcester in Warwickshire, also be- win it. I knew if I kept my cool this horse came Britain’s oldest Olympic gold med- would do it and he did. I knew if I did It was Britain’s sixth individual Olympic allist in any sport, eclipsing shooter Jerry not make a mistake, he wouldn’t either.” showjumping medal after silvers for Ann Millner, who won gold in 1908. When asked about becoming the oldest Moore (1972) and Marion Coakes (1968), British gold medallist, Skelton said: “I feel plus two David Broome bronze medals Skelton and Big Star – his London 2012 it! It is amazing. To be in the sport all this and a bronze for Peter Robeson. Big Star, team gold medal-winning ride – were time and win this caps it.” himself, has suffered injury troubles since among six combinations that jumped the London Games but he bounced back off against the clock after posting double “But someone else will do it in four years to claim a remarkable triumph for Skel- clear rounds earlier in the day. [in Tokyo]. I’ll never have another horse ton and his owners Beverley and Gary as good as Big Star. I’ll be too old.” Skel- Widdowson. Skelton, competing in his seventh Olym- ton beat Sweden’s Peder Fredricson into pics, set a scorching pace of 42.82 sec- second place, with Canadian Eric La- Skelton has now won 16 major champion- onds, despite being first to go, that no maze – the 2008 Olympic individual ship medals – two Olympic, nine Euro- other rider could match. It means that champion – finishing third. In the end, pean and five world – but his crowning Great Britain’s equestrian team finished Skelton and Big Star triumphed by more glory came in the glorious Brazilian sun- their Rio campaign with two gold med- than half a second. It represents a career shine as he battled to hold back the tears als – Skelton and dressage star Charlotte highlight for a rider who has fought back on the medal podium. Dujardin – plus a silver for the dressage from a broken neck suffered in 2000 that team. “Brilliant,” said Skelton. “You al- forced him to retire before he returned to Courtesy (Express) ways dream about it and then it actually the saddle in 2002. He has also suffered a happens it is real life. I have been think- serious back injury and had a hip replace-

16 17 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

FORMULA ONE OF EQUESTRIANISM - THE LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR

Th e Longines Global Champions Tour se- Ben Maher; three-time Olympic medal- naco, Princess Caroline of Hanover, Mi- ries is a unique, world-class show jump- list , two-time Longines crosoft founder Bill Gates and rockstar ing Championship and a phenomenon GCT Champion Edwina Tops-Alexan- Bruce Springsteen. in the sport. Taking place in some of the der, as well as four- time Olympic Gold world’s most unique and prestigious des- medallist Ludger Beerbaum - a true leg- Style icons such as Marion Cotillard, tinations, Longines Global Champions end of the sport.Th e incredible equine Charlotte Casiraghi, Longines Ambas- Tour off ers the richest prize money in athletes which compete on the Tour are sador of Elegance Jane Richard Philips, show jumping, creating some of the most as popular as their riders, with fan clubs actor Guillaume Canet, and 5* riders explosive and exciting competition of any and dedicated supporters at every event. Jessica Springsteen, Georgina Bloomberg equestrian championship. Th roughout its Gerco Schröder’s beautiful Olympic Sil- and Athina Onassis de Miranda also add history, the Longines Global Champions ver medal-winning stallion London, one their own touch of chic to the Tour, creat- Tour series has grown from six events to of the most photographed horses in show ing a truly unique and exclusive feel. But 15 events, including debut shows in 2015 jumping, has been a regular on the Tour, it is undoubtedly the glamorous venues for Miami Beach and as well as in- as is Scott Brash’s Hello Sanctos, Rolf- and the wonderful hospitality of the host troducing Mexico City to the impressive Göran Bengtsson’s Casall ASK and John destination line up for 2016. Whitaker’s Argento. Th e Tour is also the countries that make the LGCT events feel place to catch sight of up-and- coming so unique. Th e Longines Global Champi- Longines Global Champions Tour at- young equine stars of the future as riders ons Tour is where world-class sport meets tracts the very best riders and horses in introduce them to top-level sport under relaxed elegance in vibrant destinations show jumping to its glamorous Cham- the very best conditions. around the globe. 2016 sees us kick-off pionship series. Many of the riders are the season at the spectacular ocean- multiple medal winners at the very top Th e beauty and elegance of show jump- side venue of Miami Beach, last year’s of their game, such as Olympic Gold ing and the settings provided by Long- groundbreaking addition to the Tour. In Medallist, former World Number 1 and ines Global Champions Tour appeals to this Olympic year, there has never been two-time LGCT Champion of Champi- connoisseurs of elite level competition, ons Scott Brash, 2014 World Champion from fans who follow the shows around a better time to witness the world’s best , 2014 FEI World Cup the world, or watch the sport live on the horses and riders battle it out as the 2017 Final winner Daniel Deusser; 2012 Olym- website or TV, to high-profi le enthusiasts Longines Global Champions Tour series pic Gold medalists and such as H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Mo- gets underway.

18 19 Prix played out, viewers around the world Grand Prix of Doha win and the presti- €1 million bonus prize money as he takes were on the edge of their seats, however gious 2016 Champion of Champions title his place on the list of LGCT Champions. in the end it was Luciana who took the ti- in a magnifi cent showdown in Qatar. De- On a Tour that saw the world’s top show tle, and the Grand Prix of Doha win with scribing the Title win as “a dream come jumpers visit 15 incredible destinations, her feisty chestnut mare Fit For Fun, call- true”, Rolf heralded his magnifi cent horse kicking off in Miami Beach, and reaching ing it a ‘dream come true.’ Casall as “just amazing”, with their 11 spectacular cities such as Mexico City, year partnership one of the most respect- Monaco, Shanghai and Rome, it was the Celebrating Th e fi nal in November 2016 held in Doha ed in the world. culmination of a fantastically consistent was a night of dreams and the story of season for Rolf and Casall, with the pair those who never give up, as Rolf-Göran His powerful season performance pro- taking wins in Valkenswaard and Paris, Global Superstars Bengtsson (SWE) and the phenomenal 17 pelled him into pole position in the rank- as well as podium fi nishes at other stops year old stallion Casall ASK claimed both ing for the fi nal leg in Doha and Rolf’s on the circuit. Champions Tour the Longines Global Champions Tour victory saw him take the lion’s share of the Courtesy (LGCT)

What the Riders Say... Swedish rider Rolf-Göran Bengtsson and the phenomenal 17 year old stallion Casall ASK claimed both the “We are really grateful to have such events and sponsors that Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha win and the prestigious 2016 Champion of Champions title in a bring equestrian sport forward. When I started, we were magnificent showdown in Qatar riding for small money and now we can live off the sport. Th e Tour is fantastic.“

Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE) Two-time Olympic Silver medallist, 2012 & 2014 Longines The Longines Global Champions Tour his illustrious career and fittingly add- to become Champion of Champions Global Champions Tour Runner-Up t has always attracted the biggest and ed Longines Global Champions Tour again in 2014 following a nail-biting race brightest names in show jumping, and Champion to his haul after finishing with for top honours over 14 rounds between the roll-call of Champions over the last a massive 50 point lead from 2001 Euro- himself, Ludger Beerbaum and Rolf-Go- decade is testament to the incredible pean Team Gold medallist Jessica Kurten ran Bengtsson. Agonisingly, once again world-class level of sport the Tour pres- (IRE). In 2008 and 2009, the Champion- Bengtsson finished on the same points as ents. As we forge ahead into another feast ship winner was determined in a separate the winner, but Brash had broken another “To be part of the Tour is great and the series is great for of Championship drama in this, the 11th final and by 2009 the Tour consisted of record that season by becoming the first show jumping. Th e locations are fantastic - it’s really what year of the Tour, it seems only fitting to nine stunning venues around the world. rider to win three Grand Prix in the same the sport was needing. It’s really raised the sport’s profi le, celebrate some of the most successful The top 25 riders of the season overall year. 2015 saw World Number 1 Scott it’s fantastic to be a part of it.“ athletes and horses of the last nine spec- standings were invited to participate in Brash kick off the season with an early tacular Longines Global Champions Tour the 2008 final and it was Jessica Kurten Grand Prix win in the stunning new Mi- seasons. (IRE) with Castle Forbes Libertina who ami Beach destination. On the sands next went one better to become the first lady to the sparkling Atlantic ocean, Scott and Scott Brash (GBR) As far back as 2006, such illustrious winner of the Tour, beating Meredith Mi- his Olympic Gold winning horse Hel- 2013 & 2014 Longines Global Champions Tour Champi- names as (BRA), Norman chaels-Beerbaum (GER) and the legend- lo Sanctos laid down the gauntlet to the on, 2015 Runner-Up, 2012 Olympic Gold medallist Dello Joio (USA), (GBR) ary Shutterfly by just 0.76s and taking an world-class field who hoped the British and Ludger Beerbaum (GER) took part unprecedented ¤300,000 first prize. rider couldn’t make it three Champion of in the first season of what would quick- Champions titles in a row. As the season progressed, one leading lady took up the ly become one of the most prestigious World domination by Britain’s Scott “I try to ride at as many events as possible. It’s a great “I think it’s very exciting to have a Longines Global Champion challenge with Portugal’s Luciana Diniz Tour event come to the United States. It’s even more exciting and lucrative Championship series in the Brash began in 2013 when the 2012 Tour - not only with a lot of prize money, it’s in great show jumping world. It was Belgian hero, Olympic Gold medallist produced a re- taking home a strong win in the packed that it is bringing a brand new event to a brand new venue. places, there’s great sport.“ I expect both will be top class with top international four-time Olympian Ludo Philippaerts, cord-breaking performance to win both out venue of . However, Scott was competitors.“ who dominated the very first Champion the final Grand Prix of the season and not to be beaten and took a second Grand Christian Ahlmann (GER) 2011 FEI World Cup Final winner, 2013 Longines Global Champions of Champions title in 2006, winning Gold the overall Championship - something Prix win in Monaco, quickly followed by Beezie Madden (USA) Tour Runner-Up at two of the five rounds with Parco and never before achieved on the Tour - with a third in Cascais, Estoril. It looked to be Two-time Olympic Gold medalist taking the season win with an impressive his star ride Hello Sanctos. Brash pushed a two horse race, however the brilliant 40 point lead from 2004 Olympic Cham- 2003 European Champion Christian Rolf-Göran Bengtsson proved it could “Th e Tour has fantastic shows and fantastic places to go to, and pion Rodrigo Pessoa. Ahlmann (GER) into 2nd place and took be third time lucky after two Grand “I think Longines Global Champions Tour has the best is improving it all the time. It has been a great change home the biggest prize pot of his career, Prix wins in London and Rome with the Grand Prix in the world, in the biggest cities in the for the sport. In 2007, the Tour expanded to seven ¤442,500. mighty Casall ASK put him in the mix to world. Th e classes are broadcast all over the world. Th e venues and it was the unstoppable Nick claim his first title. Another Grand Prix Tour is a prestigious product for our sport. It’s the best Gerco Schroder (NED) 2014 World Team Gold medallist, 2012 Olympic Individual Silver medallist Skelton (GBR) and Arko who took the Shortly after his 2013 win, Brash became win in Vienna for Luciana, and the bat- riders competing against each other at top venues, in crown after collecting a Gold and two World No1 for the first time in his ca- tle for the 2015 Champion of Champions the top cities, for top prize money.“ Silver Grand Prix medals. Skelton has reer and has held on to the position for was down to the wire, as Scott, Luciana “Since GCT’s inception, Jan Tops has followed his dream of and Rolf made it a three horse race to the Ludger Beerbaum (GER) modernising the sport, bring the sport to new heights.“ amassed a staggering 16 major inter- over a year - the first rider to do so since Four-time Olympic Gold medallist final event in Doha, Qatar. As the Grand national championship medals during in 2006. Brash went on Kent Farrington (USA)

20 21 EquestrianBreeding Times Equestrian Times

History of Sport Horse Breeding

On 4th September 1988, Her Royal High- Following the success of this inaugural Preparing for a Bright Future ness Princess Anne, who was President of event, the WBCSH committee, chaired by In 2010, during the General Assembly held in Pennsylvania in con- the FEI from 1986 to 1994, invited a select Prof Dr. G.J.W van der Mey (NED), decid- nection with the FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ken- group of sport horse breeding experts from ed to expand the competition into dressage tucky the key question for the Federations future was “How do we across Europe to a meeting in Apeldoorn, and later, eventing. Despite the success of raise the profile of the WBFSH?” It was decided to use the Feder- The Netherlands. the Championships, measures still needed ation as a springboard to improve and share knowledge regarding to be made to enable a closer relationship This elite group were the pioneers behind breeding and similar industries through technical seminars orga- with the FEI. This was important in ensur- nized by the WBFSH. the initial committee of the World Breed- ing the new International Horse Passport ing Championships for Sport Horses would include breeding details as well as The 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy was a perfect (WBCSH) which, on 19 November 1994, printed breeding information on shows became what is known today as the World occasion to host a meeting where equestrian sport and sport horse starting lists and result sheets. The orga- breeding could meet on an international scale. A seminar was held Breeding Federation for Sport Horses HRH Princess Benedikte, Patron of the WBFSH nization also worked closely with the FEI (WBFSH). on genomic selection and the philosopher, Professor Axel Kahn, on the development of Young Horse much was one of the key speakers. The Federation also hosted a gala din- more proactive. Under the Patronage of Spearheaded by French journalist and pub- ner that evening which gathered support from sport and breeding HRH Princess Benedikte, its aim was to lisher Xavier Libbrecht and supported by personalities including Ingmar de Vos, now President of the FEI, increase participation and encourage effi- FEI jumping and dressage Directors, Max Breido Graf zu Rantzau, President of the German Federation, and cient growth. Amman and Joep Bartels, the concept of also respected breeders including Germain Levallois (Le Tôt and HRH Princess Benedicte Diamant de Semilly) and Yves Chauvin, President of the Société the group was to provide breeding, stud- From the start of the new millennium, Jan books and breeders more visibility and rec- Hippique Française (SHF). horses across the three Olympic disciplines Pedersen has been regularly re-elected as ognition. of show jumping, dressage and eventing. President: Verona 2001, Guadalajara 2004, On that evening HRH Princess Benedikte declared her support and Apeldoorn, 2007, Philadelphia 2010, War- Early Years: World Breeding Champion- The event itself took almost three years of endorsement for breeders and sport horse breeding, saying, “I am saw 2013 and supported by the Board who ships - before launching a worldwide orga- diplomatic efforts and logistical organi- proud of what has been achieved by the Federation and proud to be remained unified and motivated. nization, the committee decided to create zation to accomplish. The inaugural show your Patron”. for jumping took place in November 1992 a platform which would allow the stud- Sponsors also started to take heed and books already competing with each other, in Maastricht, The Netherlands when the Courtesy ( WBFSH) Hanoverian studbook won as a team (with realized that breeding and breeders were to get to know their peers. Based on an true partners of equestrian sport. Brands idea which was already operational with- six of the best horses of the year) while Leon Melchior who bred Ratina Z (Olym- also started to realise the value in the Fed- in Formula 1 and the car industry – they eration - Purina, then MSD-Agvet (which piloted a competition called the World pic champion at in 1992) was awarded the ‘Best Horse of the Year’ also became Merial) and more recently Jaeger Breeding Championships. The competi- LeCoultre. tion was judged based, on performances of became the ‘Breeder of the Year’. 22 23 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

LARA BECKER A warm German connection Ikram Khan

The head of the Indian breeding opera- along with Lina Virwani, was instrumen- from the Indian riders point of view. They tions Lara Becker from Germany and the tal in the historic first-ever foal champi- will get to ride better horses and that will chief of Embassy Group Jitu Virwani, the onship, the auction of four warmbloods at provide them the desired experience and biggest promoter of the equestrian sport EIRS last year, revealed that the climatic exposure before they get to hone their have provided a shot in-the–arm for the conditions in Bengaluru are perfect for skills, partnering the warmbloods in in- game and the Indian riders who are look- warmblood breeding and most impor- ternational meets,” said Lara. ing to make a mark on the international tantly apart from Embassy, a couple of scene, immensely pleased with the effort other stud farm owners in South and one Lauding the effort of Lina Virwani who are gearing to parade their skills on the In- owner from Mumbai, are keen to invest in provides the top Indian civilian riders her dian bred warmbloods and sport horses. the warmblood breeding exercise. horses stationed in Germany to compete in the international championship, Lara “The Indian riders are fast improving and “Dr Mahendran, a cardiologist from Co- said: “The three Indian riders training in are ready and it will not be long before a imbatore will parade 8-10 foals this year the United Kingdom I’m told are perform- couple make a mark on the international and that’s a good sign,” said Lara. She re- ing well and that provides India the hope scene,” said Jitu Virwani before the second vealed that the stock of warmbloods has in the next Asian Games.” Foal Championship at the Embassy Inter- gone up in Europe and that’s largely due to national Riding School (EIRS). the insemination process and if the Indian Equs India, Jitu Virwani pointed out, apart government allows the import of frozen from the warmblood breeding operations “It is good to see many new youngsters semen, India can produce quality warm- will conduct advanced riding clinics for make rapid progress and all they need is bloods.“ The EIRS has a couple of good top riders. “The idea is to bring down international exposure. We have start- stallions including Bianco and we have top coaches from Germany and hold ad- ed providing the talented and promising brought in two more pedigree stallions vanced riding clinics and that will help the coaching stints in the United Kingdom and that should provide the quality,” said Indian riders to perfect their technique and Germany and we are pleased with Lara.The 27-year-old Equine Business and add to the skills required, to excel in the results, said Lara pointing out that the Management graduate disclosed that a the big league,” said Jitu. stock on offer for the auction sales this couple of thoroughbred owners from New year is good and is certain to evoke good Delhi are interested to breed sport hors- response among the buyers. Lara, who es and that idea too is very encouraging

24 25 EquestrianExport Times & Feature Equestrian Times

After the success of the first-ever warm- blood auction sales in India last year, the second edition of the Foul Championship was simply stunning thanks to the Em- It is time EFI facilitates bassy Group chief, Jitu Virwani, who has provided the saddle to top Indian riders to gallop to fame in the equestrian sport and the import of horses Ikram Khan the petite German lass Lara Becker who is spearheading the breeding operations.

The pedigree stock on offer confirmed that the breeding exercise in India was a big success. And the buyers pleased with the stock procured lauded the bold approach of Jitu and Lara who against all odds are chasing a dream, an Asian and Olympic gold in equestrian sport for India.

It is true that the two cannot go at it alone. Big support must come from the Eques- trian Federation Of India (EFI) and with President Lt.Gen Rajeev Vasant Kanitkar and Secretary General Col R K Swain in the ranks, EFI is keen and eager to ring in the changes in their effort to provide, both the talented Army and civilian riders a perfect platform to put India on the in- ternational map.

Vice President (Finance) Jitu Virwani un- derstands that it will take a while to change the system in operation at EFI but he is confident and more importantly pleased with the new decision makers of EFI who are open to new ideas, plans and designs which will help the sport take a giant leap.

A good competitive and clean structure with a fine blend of civil and army is the need of the hour. Now that a group of pas- sionate civilians from all across the coun- which have the required infrastructure taxing on the owner. When a horse has After the success of the first-ever warm- President Lt.Gen Rajeev Vasant Kanitkar in the game, the EFI must welcome the try have chosen to make big investments and potential to gain money and mileage gone through the quarantine process in blood auction sales in India last year, the and Secretary General Col R K Swain in civilians with administrative skills and ex- in the game, the EFI must welcome the to the sport. his home country before he travels to In- second edition of the Foal Championship the ranks, EFI is keen and eager to ring pertise on board. More competitions and civilians with administrative skills and ex- dia, he should not be asked to undergo the was simply stunning, thanks to the Em- in the changes in their effort to provide, exposure at the international stage must pertise on board. More competitions and The EFI must also look to change and exercise again. It is just not done in any bassy Group chief, Jitu Virwani, who has both the talented Army and civilian riders be provided to the riders. Regular meets exposure at the international stage must facilitate the quarantine procedures. The other country but it happens only in India provided the saddle to top Indian riders to a perfect platform to put India on the in- and competitions must be held. NEC, be provided to the riders. Regular meets quarantine fee has now been increased and this must be sorted out. gallop to fame in the equestrian sport and ternational map. JNEC and FEI World challenges should and competitions must be held. NEC, from Rs 250 to Rs 1,250 per horse, per the petite German lass Lara Becker, who be conducted in two or more zones to JNEC and FEI World challenges should day and this needs to be examined and A couple of leading vets admit that it is is spearheading the breeding operations. Vice President (Finance) Jitu Virwani un- encourage more participation. Offering be conducted in two or more zones to reduced . All that EFI needs to do is to not required and all that the horse needs derstands that it will take a while to change National Championship to the top clubs encourage more participation. Offering approach the Agricultural and Animal is to to pass is a couple of mandatory tests The pedigree stock on offer confirmed that the system in operation at EFI but he is who have the ability to stage the big shows National Championship to the top clubs Husbandry ministry and they are willing on arrival and he can well proceed to the the breeding exercise in India was a big confident and more importantly pleased rather than holding the Nationals in only who have the ability to stage the big shows to help. A change or an amendment in destination after clearing the tests. success. And the buyers pleased with the with the new decision makers of EFI who Army venues will boost the confidence rather than holding the Nationals in only the import policy of horses is a must. To stock procured, lauded the bold approach are open to new ideas, plans and designs of the clubs and will bring home the de- Army venues will boost the confidence of compete successfully on the international It is time that EFI constitute a committee of Jitu and Lara who against all odds are which will help the sport take a giant leap. sired results. Big promoters and sponsors the clubs and will bring home the desired stage the Indian riders need top pedigree and rope in a few leading vets to tackle chasing a dream, an Asian and Olympic need to be roped in and since the army results. horses and EFI needs to facilitate the im- this issue quickly taking into account that gold in equestrian sport for India. A good competitive and clean structure rules do not permit sponsor advertising at port of horses. In addition the quarantine many individual buyers are shying away with a fine blend of civil and army is the their venues, the EFI will do well to iden- Big promoters and sponsors need to be problem should be quickly and rightly from making investments in this game It is true that the two cannot go at it alone. need of the hour. Now that a group of pas- tify venues which have the required infra- roped in and since the army rules do not addressed. Most knowledgeable are of the due to the elaborate and taxing quarantine Big support must come from the Eques- sionate civilians from all across the coun- structure and potential to gain money and permit sponsor advertising at their ven- view that the quarantine requirement of procedures. trian Federation Of India (EFI) and with try have chosen to make big investments mileage to the sport. ues, the EFI will do well to identify venues 30 days after arrival of horses in India is

26 27 Equestrian Times India’s first Sporthorse Studbook for Breeding Sporthorses

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

To Sporthorse Studbook (India) LLP Embassy Point 1st Floor, 150 Infantry Road, Bengaluru 560001. India.

With this form, I am applying for membership to the Sporthorse Studbook (India) LLP

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Date of Birth D D M M Y Y Y Y

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I would like to receive the studbook magazine Via Email ☐ By post ☐

Active Membership Mares and stallions that you want to get registered with the studbook under your name. Please send us a scan of their passport. Equestrian history in India was re-written with We provide: the launch of the first Sporthorse Studbook for sports ▪ Breeding consultancy & workshops horses in Bengaluru. Helping us to supply the best ▪ Registration of horses, mares & warm blood foals top-quality warm sports horses in the country. ▪ Issuing of passports A sure step forward in ensuring India’s place on ▪ Foal championships and auctions Passive Membership - no registered breeding horse the world Equestrian map, to champion the sport ▪ Stallion approvals in the future. ▪ Selling semen of warmblood stallions I accept membership and payment conditions of the Sporthorse Studbook (India) LLP. I confirm that all mares which are pregnant / foaling this year are registered with the Sporthorse Studbook (India) LLP. The termination of the membership is submitted in writing to the Studbook by December 1st in the year

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office @indian-sporthorses.com I www.indian-sporthorses.com Design : AQUARIUZ 28 www.indian-sporthorses.com 29 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times Many exciting sports on horse

Th e most enjoyable aspect to horse • Para-Equestrian Dressage is the SHOW JUMPING riding is the bond you create with a Equestrian discipline that is included in • Show jumping is where horse and rider horse or pony, whilst being outside in the the Paralympic Games. jump over coloured fences, obstacles fresh air. Once you have mastered the and water jumps. basics, there are a number of equestrian • Competitors ride set dressage tests in disciplines and equine sports you could exactly the same way as their able-bodied • Th e main aim is to get around without specialise in, as your confi dence, skill counterparts with the complexity of the a refusal or knocking over a fence for and knowledge grows. test based on the athlete’s impairment which the horse and rider are given classifi cation. penalty points. Competitively, it is one of the very few sports where women and men can • Th e Grades range from Grade Ia for the • In the result of everyone jumping a compete equally. most severely impaired, to Grade IV for clear round, then a jump off will take the least impaired. place usually against the clock. Sitting on a horse may not seem like an obvious form of exercise, but it pretty • Th is sport is something that novice much involves all the muscles in your riders can take part in at a grassroots body, between ensuring posture and Pony Club or riding club level. balance, and controlling the horse. Eventing is the triathlon of the horse world where horse and rider compete Equestrian is a sport that in three phases, the fi rst is dressage, tests horsemanship and there the second cross country and are three disciplines in the sport, the third element is Show Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. Jumping.

Most riders when starting out, try each • Cross Country is the muddy cousin discipline and then specialise based on of show jumping, with solid fences their abilities and what aspects of the ridden over uneven ground, a course equestrian sport that they enjoy. is designed to test horse and rider’s endurance and skill - typically the Th is is a partnership between horse and course uses rustic wooden jumps rider and means the horse needs to also instead of brightly coloured fences. have the ability to excel in the chosen sport. • Th e aim is to be the horse and rider with the fewest points DRESSAGE aft er completing all elements. • A French term that describes the

training of horse and rider. EVENTING • Th e combination complete a set test in Professional expertise and individual supervision. front of judges who score the individual • Eventing is the triathlon of From stable to stable. With care and attention. movements based on harmony, rhythm the horse world where horse and expression, the impression should and rider compete in three Peden Bloodstock GmbH Peden Bloodstock Ltd. be of horse and rider dancing together. phases, the fi rst is dressage, the second cross country and the Im Look 9 Borough Court • Tests are set for all levels of rider third element is showjumping. D-45472 Mülheim/ Ruhr Hartley Wintney Hampshire RG27 8JA G.B. PEDEN BLOODSTOCK starting at walk and trot for beginners. International Shipping Agents • Cross Country is the muddy Tel.: +49 (0) 208 378 24 10 Phone: +44 1252 844042 • Th e Grand Prix is the pinnacle of Fax: +49 (0) 208 378 24 15 Fax: +44 1252 844043 the sport contested at the Olympics. E-Mail: [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] www.peden-bloodstock.com

30 31 20160902 CP EN.qxp_Mise en page 1 14/09/2016 11:43 Page1

Equestrian Times Equestrian Times cousin of showjumping, with solid fences ridden over uneven ground, a course is designed to test horse and rider’s endurance and skill - typically the course uses rustic wooden jumps The new finer and lighter saddle with horsewomen in mind. instead of brightly coloured fences.

• Th e aim is to be the horse and rider with the fewest points aft er completing all elements.

HORSE RACING

Flat racing of thoroughbreds is a big sport around the world and hundreds of jockeys and trainers with exemplary skills train and ride the horse to its optimum level in their bid to win a race. Secretariat, Shergar, Frankell to name a few are the legends of the sport.

VAU LTING Love horse riding and also keen on gymnastics? If the answer is yes, then

Vaulting is for you. Best described as beautiful countryside. Th e sport gets gymnastics on a cantering horse, this is more technical as it progresses with not your ordinary activity. competitive rides of 160km - where support crew and veterinary checks Th e horse is lead by a handler doing ensure the welfare of the horse become the lunging in the middle of the arena, integral. keeping the horse at a steady rhythm allowing the rider to perform elegant Carriage driving and fl uid movements, on top of the A form of competitive horse driving horse. where one, two or four horses are OTHER HORSE SPORTS harnessed to a vehicle and controlled by ‘the driver’ who sits in the carriage. Horseboarding Th ey are accompanied by at least one Th is is just like snowboarding but groom who supports at obstacles, or instead of being on snow, the boarder when driving on roads. Th is can be is tied to a horse! With a world-record a pleasure activity for all ages and speed of 40mph it is a sport fuelled with abilities. Reining - is a style of western adrenaline but don’t worry you’ll be riding originating from the ranching properly padded and protected. Th ere and warfare traditions brought to the are 36 teams competing in the national Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors. championships who take part in races Th e equipment and riding style evolved around the country and also teams to meet the working needs of the cowboy for juniors. Communication with the in the American West. rider is key and it is also a good way to understand horses better. Before taking Riders complete a precise pattern of part, all boarders need to get riding circles, spins, and stops designed to lessons. showcase the agility and obedience of the horse. It is likened to a Western form of Performance with a lighter touch. Endurance Riding dressage with both disciplines requiring Consists of riding across long distances fi nesse and correctness, demonstrating competitively. For this, horse and rider the unity of horse and rider. need to have been in training to be as Courtesy (BBC) fi t as possible. Endurance riding is an activity suitable for beginners, with pleasure rides starting at around 16km and with routes oft en running through

32 www.cwdsellier.c m 33 Equestrian Times Equestrian Times

www.stonehill.in Horse Body Language LEAP. LIVE. LEARN.

Th e horse can indicate its own feelings with being kicked and may become • Blowing - Th is is a friendly and relaxed in a number of ways and the ears are a reluctant to be mounted. Oft en problems noise that the horse will make from good indication of what is going through can be traced to unpleasant experiences blowing out through its nostrils. If a horse a horse’s mind. Ears Alert and Forward and work done to rectify the association. is making a regular blowing noise while Ears pricked alert and facing forward, A task or experience which the horse traveling at speed, then it will be due to indicate the horse is happy and interested. considers unpleasant can be overcome by the air vibrating within the nostril itself. Ears Flat Back - against the neck shows feeding treats or using something else to that the horse is unhappy or annoyed. give the horse something nice to associate FRIGHT AND FLIGHT Stonehill International, India’s world class fully accredited • Stonehill, is amongst India’s Top 10 IB Schools with Ears Loweredslightly to the sides, shows with the unpleasant experience. Horses are prey animals and have IB school, invites all talented riders and equestrian buffs to over 400 students of 35 nationalities and teachers that the horse is relaxed, bored or could developed quick responses to danger and train at India’s largest private equine academy in Bangalore. from over 15 countries. indicate that it feels unwell. Flickering COMMUNICATION will run away from the predator or with Ears - indicate the horse is listening and Horses use diff erent vocal noises to a domestic horse anything that the horse Come, board at Stonehill and experience the 240 acre • It is a complete IB World School accredited for all attentive. communicate with one another, sounds feels could be danger to them. Th is can Embassy International Riding School with over a 100 horses, 3 IB programmes - (PYP, MYP & DP) can include nicker, neigh, snort, blowing oft en be seen with: a pony club, state-of-the-art stable facilities and even a INTELLIGENCE and squealing. • Stonehill takes pride in its lB trained global faculty competition arena. Learn the art of Dressage and Show • Spooking - Th e horse will leap away with 6:1 student-teacher ratio. Horses are intelligent, although some • Snorting - Horses will snort when they from an object or noise that it feels is Jumping from professional instructors and qualified Asian are undoubtedly more intelligent than are excited such as when playing in the dangerous. Games riders and meet the only women jockey to have won others. Th ey have the ability to learn and fi eld, or when they are uncertain of an 2 Derbys in India. also the ability to work things out for object, sound or situation. • Shying - Th e horse will remain looking themselves such as opening stable bolts, at the off ending object or sound but will BOARDING AT STONEHILL Boarding admissions open to students from freeing themselves from accidents in the • Nicker - Th is is a friendly, fairly quiet move away from it as far as possible. Stonehill believes that children need both discipline and fi eld, etc. A horse is a fast learner with the and gentle greeting between horses, such grades 4-12 (P7 to DP) with full, weekly, freedom, besides direction and care. That’s why our boarding right and consistent training. Horses can as that observed by mares who will nicker • Spinning - Th e horse will turn and try flexible and day boarding. also learn their daily routine and know to their foals. to run in the opposite direction to the houses are designed to feel like home - with sunny rooms and when it is feeding time, or when they can off ending object or sound. lounges instead of dorms and wifi-enabled common lounges For details, Call: +91 70266 66911 expect treats, etc. Horses are easily upset • Neigh And Whinny- Th is is a friendly to complete projects or relax with friends. E-mail: [email protected] call which can be quite high pitched. • Leaping - A horse will oft en leap forward

but reward training can overcome many AQUARIUZ AQUARIUZ if it is alarmed from behind. If a horse is problems. Horses make associations with Horses will oft en neigh to one another uncertain of the footing or crossing they many things and these associations can when separated. will oft en try to leap over rather than go cause problems - for example, if a horse • Squealing - Horses can squeal when through, for example a ditch fi lled with is kicked when mounted a few times, greeting each other or as a friendly or water or boggy patch of ground. it will start to associate being mounted excitable warning.

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