NATIONAL CHAMPIONS 20 FIVE ESSENTIAL DRILLS for the VAULT on by Daniel Janes

WWW.AMERICANVAULTING.ORG WINTER 2019

EQUESTRIANOfficial Publication of the American Vaulting Association VAULTING SPORT HORSE WELLNESS 2019 PLUS NATIONAL STRENGTH, BALANCE, CHAMPIONS FLEXIBILITY A programVaulting bringing quality Trainingcoaching to athletes remotely Program in a cost-effective way.

The Vaulting Training Program (VTP) allows athletes and their coaches in other regions to have access to the High Performance coaches at Paciﬁc Coast Vaulting Club, a club which has successfully qualiﬁed vaulters for championships, both National and International.

Photo by Tim Sutherland “This program gives us the opportunity to Coach Daniel Janes Coach Kristian Roberts work with elite coaches from across the US while being personalized to our vaulter” Heather PA The program from any location can guide an athlete’s training and progress towards speciﬁc goals, allowing for continuity of training beyond that of a clinic. Athletes will have consistent support, guidance, and technique progression.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.vaultingtraining.com

South Point Hotel AVA Educational Symposium March 5-8, 2020 Las Vegas, Nevada FEI Workshop March, 4-5 2020 The biggest vaulting education symposium in the world, held at the South Point Arena in Las Vegas, with new and returning top International and National clinicians, for vaulters, coaches, lungers, riders, parents and enthusiasts. Considering coming to the Symposium? Clinician: Kristina Boe 9 Check out the website for current information. 9 Register now! Registrations are ﬂying off the shelf! 9 Don’t miss this education opportunity! www.vaultingsymposium.com Clinician: Jacques Ferrari EQUESTRIAN WINTER 2019 VAULTING VOLUME 51, ISSUE 3 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN VAULTING ASSOCIATION FEATURES 6 ARABESQUES Top 10 as Judged by Lynne Owen 8 STRENGTH, BALANCE AND FLEXIBILITY By Jodi Campbell, DVM 10 MAINTAINING YOUR HORSE’S PERFORMANCE A Sports Medicine Veterinarian’s Perspective By Lauren A. Zappitelli, DVM 14 2019 USEF/AVA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS 20 FIVE ESSENTIAL DRILLS FOR THE VAULT ON By Daniel Janes

2019 JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS: LOOKING BACK

DEPARTMENTS AND COLUMNS 2 Letter from the Editor 3 AVA News Circle of Friends

4 Judge’s Corner Kendel Edmunds on Scissors

ON OUR COVER THOMAS ALEX DUSTI HAUSMAN ON CANADAY Z AT THE 2019 USEF/AVA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI. PHOTO BY ALEX THOMAS

EQUESTRIAN VAULTING MAGAZINE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN VAULTING ASSOCIATION. EDITOR, Andrea Selch, [email protected]; ART DIRECTOR, Hart Palmer, [email protected]; ADVERTISING DIRECTOR, Haley Smith, [email protected]. AMERICAN VAULTING Many thanks to Glenna Stocks at E-Squared Editorial Services for updating our design in 2018. ASSOCIATION For address changes, go to www.americanvaulting.org/members/memberservices and click on Membership Updates to make the change. 1443 E. Washington Blvd. #289 If you are having problems receiving your copy of the magazine or wish to receive additional copies, contact the AVA National Ofﬁ ce Pasadena, CA 91104 (ph. 323-654-0800 or email [email protected]). 323-654-0800 No part of this publication may be reproduced either in whole or part without written permission. Copyright by American Vaulting Association 2019.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 1 AVA VOLUNTEER BOARD OF DIRECTORS FROM THE EDITOR EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2020

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS ’m happy to present the third and final issue of EVM for 2019. PRESIDENT Katherine Ray This marks the end of my first year as its editor and also, by [email protected] default, one of its chief photographers. I experienced a bit of EXECUTIVE VP Kelley Holly a learning curve during this time, and to be honest, I am still [email protected] learning. One thing I’m sure of is that I want to have more GENERAL SECRETARY Jen Williams Iinput from the community in 2020. I’d like to hear new voices [email protected] TREASURER Jill Hobby and, especially, see more photographers out there shooting events. [email protected] VP COMPETITIONS Katherine Ray HERE’S HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHERS: VP DEVELOPMENT Michelle McClean We need competition and candid pho- [email protected] tographs for our Caught on Camera collages. We also need VP EDUCATION Carolyn Bland “illustrations” for articles—contact me and I can give you an [email protected] assignment. For all these photographs, we want to show vault- VP MEMBERSHIP Linda Bibbler ing in a safe and correct light so, for example, you will need to [email protected] make sure the tack is correctly positioned, and the side reins are DIRECTORS attached. [Note: Because the magazine is not merely digitally-pro- COMPETITIONS DIRECTOR EMMA SEELY duced but is actually printed, the quality of the photographs needs [email protected] to be high. We require high resolution images—300 dpi—for small FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR JOANIE DOWNS and large photographs alike. My best advice: Use an actual camera [email protected] INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR KRISTIAN ROBERTS and tinker with the settings; for action shots, use 1/500 sec. or 1/800 [email protected] sec. speed setting and the widest possible aperture, then choose the JUDGES PROGRAM/TECHNICAL COMMITTEE DIRECTOR ISO based on the light available. Since your files will be large, I will KENDEL EDMUNDS provide you with a link to upload directly to Dropbox.] [email protected] MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR BRITTANY O’LEARY WRITERS: The world is your oyster! Contact me with your [email protected] ideas. I can also assign topics such as regional profiles, coverage MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR ANDREA SELCH of elite vaulting, and articles that teach various aspects of vault- [email protected] SAFETY & INSURANCE DIRECTOR DENA MADDEN ing, lunging, horse training, etc. [email protected] PROOFERS: Yes, we need you, and your style manual. VAULTING PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR MAKAYLA CLYNE (Apologies for any typos this first year—our “systems” have not [email protected] been perfectly in place.) VOLUNTEERISM DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CAGLIOSTRO [email protected] Here’s to a happy and healthy New Year for all the human and EDUCATION DIRECTOR MICHELLE MCLEAN equine members of our community! [email protected]

REGIONAL SUPERVISORS REGION I CONNIE GEISLER REGION IV NICOLE COLLINS A n d r e a Se lc h [email protected] [email protected] REGION II SUE SMITH REGION V ELIZABETH WHILLOCK [email protected] [email protected] REGION III JAYNE BEEBE REGION IX SARAH PHELPS [email protected] [email protected] REGION X JANE EGGER [email protected]

FEI VAULTING COMMITTEE MEMBER ISABELLE PARKER [email protected]

USEF VAULTING SPORT COMMITTEE LINDA BIBBLER CRAIG COBURN [email protected] [email protected]

EDITORIAL BOARD Chair Andrea Selch [email protected] Education and Photographs Carolyn Bland [email protected] AVA History Linda Bibbler [email protected] Technical Kendel Edmunds [email protected] AVA Vision Katherine Ray [email protected] TODD TINKHAM TODD

2 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 AVA NEWS CLOSING THE CIRCLE: The Circle of Friends disbands, with a final generous donation to the AVA BY JEN WILLIAMS

THE CIRCLE OF FRIENDS WAS A GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS, unaffili- ated with any particular club, who quietly supported the AVA in countless ways from before the group’s formal founding in 1998 through their dissolution in August 2019. “We were there for whatever the AVA needed” —Patti Reschar, Circle of Friends President 1998–2019 “I’ve always described the Circle of Friends as the true essence and spirit of unselfish volunteerism in the American Vaulting Association. Most of its members were “just parents”—as they described themselves—of vaulters who had long since grown up. These CoF members continued to stay involved in the vaulting world because they chose to keep making a difference in a sport that deeply informed their chil- dren’s lives…. We’ll always be thankful for how they gave their considerable time and The Circle of Friends at one of its last meetings around Patti Reschar’s dining-room table, site of planning many projects for the AVA, in 2018. Patti described this photograph as “the most meaningful.” Left to right: Jane Garrod, Hope Scherf, Gretchen — resources to our sport.” Sheri Benjamin, Golightly, Kitchy Burdette, Patti Reschar, Colette Garrison, Naomi Takemoto, Sydney Frankel, Carol Beutler. AVA President 2009–2012

T ALL BEGAN AT BOLADO would be labeled by typewriter. During like a directory of AVA leadership: club PARK, the AVA’s frequent National the show, the typewriter and calculator founders and sponsors, directors, judges, Championships venue from 1975 keys flew as scoresheets flowed in and key Nationals team leaders, and others through the 1980s. More specifically, it out; orders of go were revised, re-typed, performing indispensable roles. In addi- all began in “the dugout” beneath the re-posted, and revised again; and placings tion to their individual contributions to grandstand, the building from which tabulated for posting and awards. The show the AVA, as a group the Circle carried out a group of dedicated parents ran the office team formed tight bonds of friend- many projects: Early focus on the AVA’s IFest Office. Nationals was a four-day event, ship as cigarette smoke and laughter spilled international-competition ambitions led to typically drawing about 250 competitors, from the dugout, drawing in other show sponsoring international-conference atten- and all of the office work was done by volunteers and judges to join in the fun. dance, major funding to hold domestic hand, with no computer assistance. As Outside of Nationals, and in later years CVIs, and funding of international com- Judy Bryer described it in 1982, “the hours as others took over the Fest Office, the petitors. Projects in the U.S., from refur- are long, the pace is hectic, the work is group met a few times a year for lunches bishing National Championship trophies tedious and complex, the room gets smoky, or trips, to Tahoe or frequently to the coast to sponsoring horse training clinics, were and the pencil sharpeners wear out the first because Jane Garrod loved the ocean. Patti not overlooked, and included organizing day.” She added, “Patti Reschar ... our calm, Reschar enjoyed simply spending time several Annual Meetings and the AVA’s cool ‘boss,’ with her gentle manner, keeps with these friends, but began to feel the gala 35th Anniversary Annual Meeting things running smoothly, keeping track group could accomplish something more. and Alumni Reunion in March 2004, held of all the details.” During the two weeks And so the Circle of Friends was born at the Coconut Grove Ballroom in Santa prior to Nationals, hundreds of score sheets in 1998, and its membership roll reads Cruz, CA.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 3 AVA NEWS

The Circle raised funds by holding emergency staffing at Nationals when her impending resignation as President sales, providing wine tastings in the eve- the show office ran into trouble, or, as of the Circle of Friends, mentioning with nings after competitions, and by running Sheri Benjamin recalls, “quietly making a regret that the existing long-time members irresistible auctions at Annual Meetings. much-needed, no-strings-attached dona- of the Circle were having a more difficult Most of all, the Circle of Friends was there tion to the AVA deep in the midst of the time participating in the organization. With when the AVA needed them, like the time recession.” members from all over the U.S., meetings Jane Garrod and Patti Reschar provided In May of 2019, Patti Reschar announced of this group of friends were becoming too demanding. Sadly, no new volunteers came forward to restore the group. The last act of the Circle of Friends as it was dissolving was to close its bank account and send the balance to the AVA, in memory of Jane Garrod, and earmarked for the new competition-management system. This generous donation marked the closing of a group of friends and volunteers that was launched in so many busy show offices, and it will fund over half of the AVA’s first-year outlay on the urgently needed new HorseSport.pro system. CIRCLE OF FRIENDS FOUNDING MEMBERS Patti Reschar (President), Colette Garrison (Vice President), Jane Garrod, Freda Radich and Betty Lou Hutton. JOINED BY: Carol Beutler, Kitchy Circle of Friends members on an outing to the Draft Horse Classic at the Nevada County (CA) Fairgrounds, 1998. This photo includes Jane Garrod, in whose honor the CoF’s final donation to the AVA was made. Jane was, for many years, the AVA’s Burdette, Ann Burns, Joy Coburn, Merry “VP of Fest” — the VP whose primary responsibility was the National Championships — before this was rolled into the job Cole, Sydney Frankel, Gretchen Golightly, descriptions of the VP and Director of Competitions. Left to right: Jane Garrod, Colette Garrison, Patti Reschar, Hope Scherf, Marge Oakes, Julie Paoli, Marianne Rose Freda Radich. and Naomi Takemoto.

In 2009 the Circle of Friends sponsored a round of celebration for the AVA’s 40th Anniversary. The Circle prepared and served Gretchen Golightly, long-time Circle of Friends anniversary cakes at several competitions that year. These young vaulters may not have understood the significance of the member, at one of the 40th-anniversary celebrations. 40th anniversary, but they were happy to have cake!

4 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 JUDGE’S CORNER

KENDEL EDMUNDS, USEF/AVA R JUDGE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE DIRECTOR

QUESTIONS FOR THE JUDGE? EMAIL KENDEL: [email protected] The Evolution and Scoring of the Scissors

aving been involved with the sport of vaulting since 1975 as a competitor and, more recently, as a judge, I have seen a few iterations of the compulsory exercise called “the Scissors.” In the past, we have judged it on UNFORTUNATELY, A GREAT MANY things such as width of straddle, height, extension, and, for a very long time, the fi rst and second parts OF OUR COMPETITORS, EVEN were scored as one exercise. In recent history, one of Hthe things we have done right is break these parts out into two AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, ARE STILL separate exercises, with each having a specifi c and quite different description and mechanics required to achieve optimum DOING THE EXERCISES INCORRECTLY. performance. To understand how each part is judged, you must look at the description that is in either Appendix D in the AVA Rulebook or in the FEI Guidelines. All AVA judges agree that we need to FEI Vaulting Guidelines may be viewed via this link: judge this exercise in the same manner as at FEI competitions— https://inside.fei.org/fei/disc/vaulting/rules that is, take the same penalties and deductions for incorrect mechanical performance. Our reasoning for this decision was that if we do not hold our competitors to the same standard as the FEI when they start to compete at this level and are still doing the exercise incorrectly, then they would never have on the scoresheet because, if the turn does not happen while the received the severe penalties for doing the exercise incorrectly. momentum is still on the rise, then the vaulter almost always Unfortunately, a great many of our competitors, even at the lands Off Center (OC) or does not clear the horse. highest level, are still doing the exercises incorrectly. As a judge, what this tells me is that the most important The fi rst half of Scissors (AVA), or Scissors Forward (FEI), is mechanical element of the Scissors is the timing of the turn. the exercise that has the most extreme penalties or deductions If, as a coach or a vaulter, you are unclear on what this looks applied to the scoring. The description states that, “at nearly the like you need to get clarifi cation and start practicing the proper point of maximum elevation, the hips are turned to the left by a mechanics. As judges, unless we are 100% certain that we see quarter of a turn.” If this is not happening, there are two levels No Turn, we will give the vaulter the benefi t of the doubt and go of deductions listed. The fi rst level of deduction is for No Turn with a Partial Turn comment and deduction. Having judged in (NT). A diagram in the FEI Guidelines [ https://inside.fei.org/fei/ almost every region this past competition year, I know fi rsthand disc/vaulting/rules] shows how scoring will start: Basically, a 10 that most of our vaulters are not doing the Scissors correctly. becomes a 5 base score and then we take additional deductions Not being involved at the coaching level, I am not sure where the from there. (Ouch!) The second level of deduction is for a Partial misconceptions are, but I do believe we need to address these as Turn (PT) and can garner up to a 2-point deduction. Partial Turn an association and get our competitors back on the right track is described as “a full quarter not achieved but some turn can be mechanically. If you are planning on attending the Educational identifi ed prior to the point of maximum elevation.” Symposium in March I would use that opportunity to clarify Although currently these deductions do not exist for the correct mechanics and timing with any of the exceptional clini- second half of Scissors, I always make a Late Turn (LT) comment cians that are there.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 5 1. ARABESQUES SELECTED ABY LYNNE OWEN 1. Tim Sutherland: Rhianon Hampton on Xena 2. Brittany Henderson: Colette Nicholas on Prince Ali 3. Devon Maitozo: Anna Mossige on Maximillion 4. Andrea Fuchshumer: Katerina Kocurová˘ 5. Tim Sutherland: Moira Hampton on Garth 6. Martha Wirth: Caitlyn Mendik and Hallie Dudley on Briar Rose 7. Andrea Selch: Theresa Sophie Bresch and Torben Jacobs on Picardo 13 8. Andrea Selch: Helen Mills-Selch on Gryffindor 9. Daniel Kaiser: Jessica Bentzen-Aniello and Alex Balance on Edinburgh 23 10. Primo Ponies: Claire Podoll on Sandy

10.

5. 8.

6 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 2. 9.

4. 3.

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AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 7 Strength, Balance and Flexibility BY JODY CAMPBELL

trength, balance and flexibility. These are three integral factors in developing the optimal athlete, whether human or animal. Training and building upon each of these key components will help to create a Swell-rounded, well-balanced equine partner. ANDREA SELCH

8 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 STRENGTH n Get out of the arena and explore new The list for strength-building and condi- terrains and different riding surfaces. tioning exercises for horses is a long one. Walk around the field, through the trails, However, the best strength exercises for or around the barn. This work may be ANDREA SELCH vaulting horses are those found off the done in hand or under saddle. circle. Cross-training is a great way to n Walk over ground poles that are build muscle, develop topline, and grow unevenly spaced. endurance. Whether riding dressage, n Turn the horse in hand to perform hacking out on the trail, or popping over turn on the forehand and turn on the a few jumps, horses benefit greatly from haunches. This exercise should be done diversity in exercise. evenly to both the left and the right sides. Riding or hand-walking hills is n Working your horse in hand before extremely beneficial. Be sure to ride both riding can also improve balance. up and down. Working hills at the walk will help engage the most muscles in the FLEXIBILITY horse. For this exercise, watch where the When increasing flexibility, the goal is to horse’s neck attaches to the body. Is it held promote healthy joint mobility. If joints be more flexible in their necks to one side. up high and braced? Or low and relaxed? can be used in their full range of motion Consistency and patience are key to help- Encourage them to carry their head at instead of being restricted, then the horse ing improve neck flexibility in horses. approximately chest height to engage the gains the ability to move in a healthy Practice neck stretches to the left and back and hindquarter muscles. In addi- manner. An increased range of motion right, as well as up and down. Ears should tion, pace is important. A brisk walk will allows for better blood flow. be parallel to the ground and the nose build more strength than a slow stroll. Walk is the best gait for warming a does not tip. Treats may be used to encour- If hills are not accessible, consider horse’s topline in preparation for carrying age the horse to move its head and neck walking over poles or low cavalettis. vaulters. The horse should be walked for in different directions. Avoid any methods Alternatively, vary the tempo of the walk 5–10 minutes while stretching both left/ that involve pulling or twisting, as those (slow, regular, quick). Pay attention to the right as well as down. Stretch with the often incur damaging effects. Meet the carriage of the head and neck and encour- neck up, in a neutral position, and down. horse where it is, each time, each day. age stretching over the topline while navi- This helps to warm up all the muscles in Creating an athletic strategy that gating obstacles and/or varying tempo. their back to best support the vaulters includes strength, balance, and flexibil- later. At the end of the workout, horses ity can be a tricky process, though the BALANCE should be cooled in the same manner as rewards are great! Our equine partners are Proprioception is the ability of the brain warmed up. Good methods for warm-up true athletes and need carefully thought- to know where the body is in space. and cool-down include long lining, riding, out athletic plans to be able to perform More commonly known as “body aware- and work in hand. their best. There are many types of equine ness,” this is a key piece in establishing Neck stretches are essential in maintain- bodywork professionals. Ask your trusted a well-rounded athlete. In working with ing good flexibility in the neck. They are veterinarian for recommendations, have proprioception, the goal is to improve the also helpful in determining where a horse your horse assessed, and then develop a body-to-brain connection. To develop and is restricted, so that work can be done program to create a strong, balanced, and strengthen these connections, the follow- to improve such restriction and increase flexible equine partner. ing exercises are recommended: symmetry. It’s not uncommon for horses to Jody Campbell is an AVAr/USEF r judge. ANDREA SELCH ANDREA SELCH

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 9 Maintaining Your Horse’s Performance: A SPORTS MEDICINE VETERINARIAN’S PERSPECTIVE

BY LAUREN A. ZAPPITELLI, DVM, CVA, CVSMT | PHOTOS BY TODD TINKHAM

QUINE VETERINARY MEDICINE is a fascinating and rapidly changing industry. Horses are the one species in which we put all of our focus and Eattention on their symmetry and ability to perform. In Jody Campbell’s article she highlights the importance of strength, balance, and fl exibility—key components to optimal performance.

10 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 E CARE when horses limp improve 85% after the fi rst adjustment. cellular level by changing the fl ow of ions because this is often a sign of Some horses may be sore after adjustment; in and out of the cells. The ultimate result pain, neurologic-system dysfunc- therefore this modality is best used at is a pumping of cells, which helps reduce tion, or mechanical limitation. For home and not while the horse is showing. edema (swelling). PEMF is relatively W PRICE: $$ the purpose of this article we will focus inexpensive and noninvasive. It helps on pain. Pain decreases performance and decrease pain, infl ammation, and promote can cause secondary issues due to com- ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT lymphatic drainage. It is currently FEI pensation. Limping can make the horse Acupuncture uses small-gauge needles approved. more diffi cult to ride, vault on, or train, in designated points along the body to PRICE: $ and counts against the horse in numerous decrease pain (primary or secondary), disciplines. modify the nervous system, and infl u- LASER THERAPY As a sport-horse vet, my focus is on ence hormones secreted in the body. Laser therapy utilizes infrared light to stim- helping horses before they start limping. Acupuncture can also modify how the ulate cells at the level of the mitochondria. The ultimate goal is to prevent injury and horse’s brain perceives pain, and can help The mitochondria are the powerhouses of to promote balance, fl exibility, and sym- decrease asymmetry. Some horses do not the cells. The infrared light increases cel- metry. With that said, your veterinarian is tolerate acupuncture well or may have lular energy to promote healing, decrease your best resource for assessing your horse little response. Acupuncture is most suc- infl ammation, and increase circulation. and developing a plan for maintaining its cessful when the horse is initially treated There are several different types of lasers performance. Equine veterinarians are three times. If you don’t notice a difference on the market. “Cold” lasers are lower trained to detect subtle lameness and neu- after three treatments, stop and spend energy and are available to lay people. rologic issues that are often not detected your money elsewhere. In most states, More powerful lasers, such as a class IV by the owners, riders, and/or trainers. acupuncture can only be performed by laser, are reserved for use by veterinarians. Getting your veterinarian involved gives veterinarians. It is relatively noninvasive They are typically used to treat injuries and your horse the best chance of avoiding and can be performed at shows. are prohibited from FEI events. injuries. Here’s a look at some common PRICE: $$ PRICE: $–$$$ DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF LASER USED therapies used in sport horses. AND FREQUENCY OF TREATMENTS PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT FIELD (PEMF) SHOCKWAVE This is often part of my physical exam- PEMF is generated by a Shockwave therapy involves a high-pres- ination of the horse and helps me detect variety of devices and sure sound wave generated by a areas of concern. The goal of chiropractic can be offered by lay machine. The sound wave pene- adjustment is to return the joints to their people. The pulsed trates tissues and releases in areas normal range of motion. Areas that are not electromagnetic where the tissue density changes. It moving well can cause muscle pain, may fi e l d i n fl u e n c es increases blood fl ow and can help indicate that osteoarthritis is present, or the body at the release growth factors from tissue. could be due to compensation for another Shockwave therapy is admin- primary problem. I highly recommend istered by veterinarians using a veterinary chiropractor who is also and is used to treat a trained in lameness because sometimes variety of conditions, the abnormalities found can indicate a from chronic wounds primary lameness issue that should be to joint pain and addressed. Once adjusted, your horse soft-tissue injuries. should be rechecked in 2–4 weeks. Shockwave This gives your vet valuable infor- therapy mation. Horses that have a causes a primarily chiropractic transitory problem should period of

$ = $100—$300 $$ = $300—$500 $$$ = $500 or more Prices may be higher in other locations.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 11 analgesia (numbness), which is why it can be very helpful in treating and rehabbing sore backs. Under USEF rules, shockwave therapy can be administered 12 hours out from competition by a licensed veterinarian as long as it is applied to the back and pelvis; for other uses it cannot be used within 3 days of competition. It is prohibited by the FEI within 5 days of competition. PRICE: $$–$$$, DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF AREAS TREATED JOINT SUPPLEMENTS Feedthrough joint supplements will be a topic of a sub- sequent article, but I want to briefl y touch on injectable joint supplements such as Adequan and Legend. These are by far more effective than feedthrough joint supplements. Both require a prescription but can be administered by the owner. Adequan is typically given at 5mL in the muscle once every 96 hours for 7 doses. A prominent myth in the horse industry is that after the “loading” dose, the drug should be given once monthly. There is no scientifi c evi- dence for this protocol. The 7-dose series can be repeated every 3–6 months as needed. Adequan is a polysulfated

12 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 glycosaminoglycan and helps the cartilage absorb more water. Products like Legend GETTING YOUR VETERINARIAN INVOLVED are synthetic hyaluronic acid. These products help decrease inflammation in the joint fluid. Legend is typically given at GIVES YOUR HORSE THE BEST CHANCE a rate of 4mL using an IV once weekly for 3 doses. Both of these medications have few side effects. I do not recommend using OF AVOIDING INJURIES. non-FDA-approved products; these are often marketed as “medical devices” and include Nex-HA, Polyglycan, Pentosan, etc. analgesic effect and, when used incor- are typically performed after a thorough USEF allows these substances to be rectly, can prevent bone repair and lameness evaluation that may include administered at horse shows, but not increase the risk of fractures or cata- nerve or joint blocks. Under USEF rules, a within 12 hours of competition. These are strophic breakdowns. These products joint injection must be administered more also permitted at FEI events, but must be are not FDA approved for horses under 4 than 7 days before competing, and some administered in the treatment stall after years of age, and are administered system- of the compounds used can test positive steward approval. ically by a veterinarian. There is a 28-day for up to 14 days. PRICE: $$ withdrawal period for FEI events. PRICE: $–$$$, DEPENDING ON WHICH SUBSTANCE(s) PRICE: $$–$$$ ARE BEING INJECTED BISPHOSPHONATES Dr. Zappitelli practices in North Carolina. When This class of medications includes Tildren JOINT INJECTIONS she is not tending to her equine patients she enjoys and OsPhos. These medications help This category refers to substances injected riding and showing her horses in the jumpers. She reduce bone pain and bone edema. They directly into the joint by a veterinarian. hopes to compete her horse Vaquito at the national are primarily used in treating navicu- This can include hyaluronic acid deriva- Grand Prix level next year. Read more about Dr. Zappitelli at ascendequinemsm.com. lar disease, osteoarthritis, and “kissing” tives, corticosteroids, or blood products spines. Bisphosphonates have a potent (IRAP, Prostride, etc.). These treatments

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 13 2019 USEF/AVA NATIONAL THOMAS ALEX CHAMPIONS ALEX THOMAS ALEX

A TEAM MILE-HIGH AND PACIFIC COAST VAULTERS Mile-High’s Courtney Madden, Emma Milito, and Danica Rinard, and Paciﬁ c Coast Vaulters: Daniel Janes, Emily Rose, and Geoffrey Woolson, on Levi lunged by Amy Edwards, and Goliath lunged by Mikhail Proctor ALEX THOMAS ALEX

B TEAM TROT TEAM MILE-HIGH VAULTERS MILE-HIGH VAULTERS Madison Baker, Persephone Brown, Lizie Conrad, Sydney Kolomiyets, Deveri Erfman, Elina Harbeson, Kristin Jacobsen, Eleanor Kadlecek Allison Mitchell, Matilda Rinard with Tall City Vaulters’ Nicolette Masitti, on and Virginia Rinard, with Tall City Vaulters’ Bryleigh Thornton, Rembrandt lunged by Jodi Rinard, and Habakkuk lunged by Karin Schmidt on Prince lunged by Deb Devries, and Moxie lunged by Stephanie Harris

14 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 ROY FRIESENROY FRIESENROY DAL BRAZZELL

OPEN 2-PHASE TEAM PRELIMINARY PRELIMINARY TRIANGLE EQUESTRIAN 2-PHASE TEAM PAS DE DEUX VAULTING GREAT FALLS VAULTERS REVERIE EQUESTRIAN Joline Adams, Dusti Hausman, Helen Mills-Selch, Rebecca Share, Hailey Williams and VAULTING and Reverie Equestrian Vaulting’s Mallory Brazzell Triangle Equestrian Vaulting’s Charlotte Brown Mallory Brazzell and Triangle Equestrian on Chimera lunged by Amanda Brazzell and Allegra Hart on Camelito Vaulting’s Joline Adams on Chimera lunged by Stephanie Harris lunged by Amanda Brazzell ROY FRIESENROY

TROT PAS DE DEUX ❙ TALL CITY VAULTERS Bryleigh Thornton and Eleanor Kadlecek on Indian Joe lunged by Tereesa Wentland

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 15 2019 USEF/AVA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX

3* WOMEN 3* MEN GOLD WOMEN EMILY ROSE DANIEL JANES DUSTI HAUSMAN PACIFIC COAST VAULTERS PACIFIC COAST VAULTERS TRIANGLE EQUESTRIAN VAULTING on Indiana Jones IV lunged by Lorilie Robison on Rembrandt lunged by Jodi Rinard on Chimera lunged by Amanda Brazzell and Canaday Z lunged by Mary McCormick ROY FRIESENROY THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX

BRONZE WOMEN COPPER WOMEN COPPER MEN CHARLOTTE BROWN RACHEL SCOTT KIEFER HOWLAND TRIANGLE EQUESTRIAN VAULTING HIGH HOPES VAULTERS MEADOW LAKE VAULTING CLUB on Canaday Z lunged by Mary McCormick and on Indiana Jones IV lunged by Lorilie Robison on Killian lunged by Riley Sigler Habakkuk lunged by Karin Schmidt

16 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 2019 USEF/AVA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX

GOLD MEN SILVER WOMEN SILVER MEN MIKHAIL PROCTOR HALLIE DUDLEY MALIK FINNEY FLEUR DE LIS VAULTERS PACIFIC COAST VAULTERS CEDAR LODGE on Goliath lunged by Kim Doyle on Briar Rose lunged by Lee Dudley on Bailey lunged by Amy Edwards ROY FRIESENROY ROY FRIESENROY THOMAS ALEX

TROT WOMEN TROT MEN OSIERLEA AWARD BRYLEIGH THORNTON TRAVIS SOTO FOR BEST TURNED OUT TALL CITY VAULTERS COPPER HILL VAULTING TEAM HORSE AND LUNGER on Indian Joe lunged by Melody Meade on Rio and King lunged by Kristen Soto CAMELITO & STEPHANIE HARRIS GREAT FALLS VAULTERS

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 17 18 CAUGHT ON CAMERA: ON CAUGHT

EQUESTRIAN DAL BRAZZELL VAULTING

Winter 2019 Winter

2019 NATIONALS CANDID MOMENTS CANDID 2019 NATIONALS

DAL BRAZZELL

ALEX THOMAS

ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX BETH TALARICO BETH ALEX THOMAS ALEX ALEX THOMAS ALEX ALEX THOMAS ALEX ALEX THOMAS ALEX THOMAS ALEX

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 19 he vault on, or the mount, is one of the most difﬁ cult compulsories to improve 5 ESSENTIAL DRILLS for vaulters worldwide. It requires a complex for the Vault On reaction of muscle chains for Barrel or Movie to execute properly, not to Tmention body control and overall strength. Here are ﬁ ve drills as part TEXT AND BARREL PHOTOS BY DANIEL JANES of a technique progression for an improved mount. Note that these drills are not to be considered the end result of the exercise — they are a sequence of drills to develop technique for an improved correct mount onto the horse.

Mary McCormick performs the mount at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. DANIEL KAISER

20 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 STEP 1 MOUNT INVERSION SWING. Jump and swing the right leg up, moving the body as one piece up into the air, and then landing back down on the ground. The goal is to get the hips to shoulder-level or above, with an extended leg. Focus on keeping the back rounded by engaging the core, driving the right leg upwards, and getting the shoulders down and forward past the handle. This step isn’t about actually getting onto the barrel (or the horse), rather it’s about training the correct body position and muscle use for further steps. STEP 2 MOUNT TO INVERTED HALF FLAG (shoulders low). Using the same technique as in Step 1 of the progression, now land on the barrel in an inverted half flag position. The left leg is bent and used to partially-support the body’s weight, with the right leg extended into the air, shoulders down and partially resting below the handle. Rotating the shoulders to drop low helps the hips to rotate up and invert the body. The left arm can be used to support and balance the body by keeping the elbow down and pushing against the side of the surcingle. STEP 3 MOUNT TO INVERTED HALF FLAG (shoulders high). Perform Step 2 of the progression, trying to invert further and this time engaging the shoulders to support the body’s balance. Notice that the elbow of the left arm is now switched to being up, allowing both shoulders to push and hover the body slightly above the neck of the barrel. The left leg is still bent and in contact with the barrel, helping to support the body’s balance. STEP 4 MOUNT TO FULL SPLIT (shoulders low). Similar to Step 2, but instead of bending and tucking the left leg, the left leg should instead remain straight and in a pike after jumping from the ground. The end position is a fully inverted split position, with the shoulders down low, past the handle. More rotational energy is needed for this version with the left leg being straight and piked, instead of bent and tucked into the chest as it was in Steps 2 and 3.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 21 STEP 5 MOUNT TO FULL SPLIT (shoulders high). Jump and swing the right leg up, moving the body as one piece up into the air, and then landing back down on the ground. The goal is to get the hips to shoulder-level or above, with an extended leg. Focus on keeping the back rounded by engaging the core, driving the right leg upwards, and getting the shoulders down and forward past the handle. This step isn’t about actually getting onto the barrel (or the horse), rather it’s about training the correct body position and muscle use for further steps.

TIPS AND COMMON MISTAKES AVOID TURNING IN. Notice that one of the most common mistakes in the mount is turning the hips in to face the horse. This is one habit that many vaulters have, and is a common deduction for a judge to take that keeps a vaulter from scoring higher than a 5.0 for their mount in competition. When performing these drills, focus on keeping the left hip driving up along with the swinging of the right leg – don’t allow the hips to face into the barrel. LEAVING THE SHOULDERS BEHIND THE HANDLE. When the shoulders remain behind the handle, it’s almost impossible to invert the body, and makes it more difficult to engage the core to keep from arching the back. Instead, use the arms to pull the shoulders forward and down past the handle. KEEP IN MIND FOLDING MATS AND TRAMPOLINES. In an ideal world, vaulters would perform these drills jumping straight from the ground. However, when Daniel Janes, Pacific Coast Vaulting beginning this technique progression, it’s useful to and Virtual Training Program Coach stack up folding mats, use a small trampoline, or both, to be able to execute the drills cleanly and properly. As the drills become easier, panels of mats can be unfolded to slowly increase the needed jump and swing force to reach the end positions of the drills.

WWW.VAULTINGTRAINING.COM

22 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 Nienke de Wolff info@nienkedewolff.com + 31 6 52 44 03 03 www.dewolffvaulting.com Bareldsweg 1, 7983 KH Wapse The Netherlands

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AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 23 2019 Was a Very Good Year!

Thanks to all of the families Diamond Bar, Cedar that make this possible. Lodge, A Vaulting Con- nection, JT Ranch, Fleur de Lis, Beyond the Rain- bow, Harbor View, Silver Moon, and Blue Sky Vaulters—Thanks for Kudos to our wonderful coaches and lung- loaning us FIFTEEN ers! Allison, Sydney, Jodi, Matt, Andrea, HORSES at Nationals Dena, Zoe, Jorden, DeAnn, Courtney! 2019!

GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN VAULTING LLC Founded in 2019 A competitive club committed to developing vaulters to reach their highest potential in the sport of equine vaulting.

OFFERING HEAD COACHES • Competitive vaulting • Michelle McLean (national and international) • Ruthann Steere • Recreational vaulting 7872 Wilson SW • Tiny Tot Byron Center, MI 49315 HEAD LUNGER • Developmental vaulting 616-706-1127 • Rachel Mieras [email protected]

24 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 ATULA GR TIO N on a very N O S C successful 2019! SPECIAL THANKS TO: Amanda Brazzell, Mary McCormick, Karin Schmidt and Julie Young Triangle Equestrian Vaulting Hillsborough, North Carolina Congratulations To all Region X National Championship Winners!

Prelim Pas de Deux 3rd place- Women’s Copper 5th place- Isabel Anstatt Samantha Fox & Maria McLean Women's Copper 9th place- Haley Kohn Men’s Gold-1st place-Mikhail Proctor Women's Copper 11th place-Jada Blake Men's Silver-1st place- Malik Finney Women's Copper 12th place-Karina Streeter Men's Silver -2nd place-Steven Patterson Women's Copper 15th place- Emelia Sprinkle Women's Bronze- 2nd place-Ciara Doyle Women's Trot 3rd place-Christian Augustyniak Women's Bronze 9th place-Abigail Gilchrist Women's Trot 5th place-Angie Martinez

Region X is proud of and supports all Region X and AVA competitors!

Zemi Vaulters

We are looking forward to a vaulting good time in 2020

2019Thank you - toa all fantastic of our parents and year supporters; with we could a notlot do thisof without firsts! you! Congratulations to all the vaulters. You have been such a great team to work with! Vault On! * Kenzie, Maggie, and Dolly Zemi Vaulters at Cooperstown Equestrian Park 3444 County Highway 11, Hartwick, NY n 607-287-1292 n [email protected]

26 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | WinterZemi 2019 Bryleigh Thornton 2019 National Trot Congratulations!!! Champion! Eleanor Kadlecek - Bryleigh Thornton 2019 National Trot Pas de Deux Champions! Nicolette Masitti & Bryleigh Thornton 2019 Region IV High Point To all of the amazing and Champions! dedicated people who So Proud! Good Work helped coach and improve Girls! our vaulters and horses; Jim Roedel, Christoph Lensing, Kimberly Wellmann, Emma Milito and Melanie Ford. Thanks everyone for your help and support. Looking forward to a GREAT 2020 season with new vaulters, awesome parents and a new horse addition. Thanks Katie Kadlecek!! Many thanks to JT Ranch! Shout out to our beautiful horses, Prince William, Nissan, Cavi and Jack-Jack! May they never go lame!

Congratulations Rocky Mountain High Performance Junior Squad It began as a dream for many of us in 2015 and with hard work, resilience, teamwork, and determination we suceeded. It has been an incredible journey!!

Thank you to our coaches: Jodi Rinard & Christoph Lensing • to our lungers: Christoph Lensing, Devon Maitozo, Sebastian Klemme, Christina Ender • to our horses: Romeo, Rio Grande (we miss you!), Cimbasso, and Feel the Beat (our beloved “Toni”) to our support crew: Angelika Beutel, Lena Dingerdissen, Dana Gogulski, Melissa Meier • to our clinicians: Todd Griffiths, Kylynn James, Kristian Roberts, Daniel Kaiser, Kalyn Noah (& others) • to our parents who supported us in our crazy journey to Worlds. We couldn’t have done it without you! 2019 Junior World Vaulting Championships • Bronze Medalists Melanie, Rhianon, Emma, Moira, Danica, Sydney & alternates: Augusta Rose & Kylynn

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 27 Thank You Dusti Hausman!

with admiration from your Triangle vaulters & their families

We appreciate your never-ending dedication, enthusiasm, and expertise. You inspire us!

28 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 Congratulations to the Pacific Coast Vaulting Club’s National and International Success in 2019! to Daniel and Haley, World Cup Silver Medalists Marie and Parker, who competed at the 2019 World Championships Emily, Daniel and Hallie—all National Champions! And to all our PCV Vaulters on a successful season.

Pacific Coast Vaulting Club | (650) 533–2737 [email protected] | www.pacificcoastvaulting.com Give the Gift of EQUESTRIAN VAULTING

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AMERICANVAULTING.ORG 31 WWW.AMERICANVAULTING.ORG WINTER 2019

EQUESTRIANOfficial Publication of the American Vaulting Association VAULTING JUNIOR WORLDS ERMELO U.S. Takes Home BEHIND Squad Bronze THE SCENES a peek behind the scenes U.S. ‘JUNIOR WORLDS’ VAULTERS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS BY NATALIE DEFEE MENDIK

rom leaving a restaurant after dinner see how vaulters my same age from another (late, tired, and in a strange place, of country trained for the same events I compete course) to find their cars locked in a in. It was also just an incredible experience parking garage for the night, to the thrill to be living in and traveling around Europe of standing on the podium with team- for six weeks— especially for someone who mates, training and competing abroad had never been to another country before this has its share of adventures. Junior year! I spent two weeks in the Netherlands Fvaulters share some thoughts from ‘behind the and then competed at CVI Flyinge with my scenes’ when preparing for and taking part in team, then bounced around from Denmark to the 2019 FEI Vaulting World Championships the Netherlands, and then spent two weeks in JUNIOR COVER: for Juniors in Ermelo, the Netherlands: Munich training for Worlds!” Sydney Schimack and Moira Hampton in the Team USA ON PLEASANT SURPRISES: “One of the —Parker Daley (Pas de Deux) Junior Squad’s Creepy Circus things that I didn’t expect when competing ON REPRESENTING: “It was really mind-blow- freestyle, on Feel The Beat, lunged by Christina Ender. at the Junior World Championships was not ing to think that I was now a representative of being nervous when running in.” PHOTO BY my country. When I saw all the other vaulters DANIEL KAISER. —Emma Milito (Squad) at the competition, their clothes, languages, and ALL VAULTING PHOTOS ON FIRSTS: “Training in Europe was challeng- routines became my opinion of their land. To in this section are by ing at first, just because we were adjusting to think that I was this face for the other vaulters Daniel Kaiser. new horses and lungers, as well as new styles was really humbling, but also a lot of pressure.” CANDIDS are courtesy of training. However, it was so much fun to —Marie Obeloer (Pas de Deux) of the vaulters.

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG JW1 ON BEING READY: “Even though I didn’t and proving to the judges that I wasn’t did was attend the Düsseldorf Fair. It is a compete in the arena, I felt very honored going to let it affect my mindset.” giant, more-than-700-year-old fair with to have traveled so far to represent our —Jace Brooks (Individual) many different fun rides to go on. This country. It was one of the best feelings to ON GETTING IN THE ZONE: “Performing was a very fun thing to do that had noth- know we had achieved our dreams and in front of so many people in such an offi- ing to do with vaulting, and it was very had become the 2019 Team U.S.A. I loved cial setting was obviously very nerve-rack- interesting to see the different food and being a team with not only the squad, but ing; however, after my first run-in, I cool rides that they have. We also did a lot all of the U.S.A athletes. I loved training realized that the whole competition was of just walking around in towns. We spent in Europe, especially the different training more of a fun experience than a scary one. a week in a town called Xanten, which techniques we used. For example, one barn I was expecting myself to be very nervous, had Roman ruins that I also really liked had things some of us had never used, but I have a few tactics to get into a ‘com- exploring since I enjoy Roman history. like parallel bars and stackable boxes to petition mode,’ and after I did that, I was One day we also went on a run in a beau- jump on and off of. The most challenging just excited to show everyone our routine.” tiful forest that was very refreshing and part was always being ready to step in if I —Rhianon Hampton (Squad) felt different than any forest I’ve been in so was needed and knowing everything that far.” —Rhianon Hampton (Squad) was happening with the team, even if it ON MEETING UP AGAIN: “I had the best wasn’t happening to me. The most fun part possible horse, lunger, and team during ON HONORING: “We couldn’t have done was getting to train with new people and my journey. Julie Newell, the wonderful this without Rio [Rio Grande, who sadly horses, and all the memories we made as River of Thyme (Ginge), and the entire passed away before the competition]. Our a team when we went sightseeing and the English vaulting squad made my summer first competition was in Saumur, and it adventures we had.” —Augusta Rose Lewis of training and competition as smooth as was also our first international competi- (Squad Alternate) possible. My mom, my coach (Samantha tion, and for most of us the first time being in Europe. This competition was going to ON SEEING INTO THE FUTURE: “At one Matson), and I were instantly welcomed set the tone for our season. We went into of the team practices before Worlds, we in as family, first in Pezinok, and then in our training on Rio very nervous, but as were working on some of the choreogra- England for training before the champi- soon as we met Rio, we felt like we could phy for the creepy circus freestyle, when onships in Ermelo. We still communicate Jodi Rinard, one of our coaches, came through WhatsApp several times a week do whatever we put our minds to. We up with a fun way to portray a piece of and my mom has already been back for a were able to go into the arena in France choreography: it was at the very begin- visit. I plan to visit and perhaps compete with confidence because we knew we had ning with Sydney Schimack—she had this again in spring, and we are hoping to host the best horse under us. We were able to crystal ball that shows the future, so we Julie and some of her vaulters and their place third at that competition [Saumur] were asked what we saw when we looked families in California for the Pacific Cup on Rio, an amazing horse who showed into the crystal ball. We all had different in April. I was right to trust my instincts us what international vaulting is. He was responses, but I saw my team and I stand- when I had a trial vault on Ginge and truly ‘Grande.’ And I dedicate my medal to ing on the podium at Junior Worlds after chose him as the horse I would compete him, because it wouldn’t have been possi- we medaled.” —Danica Rinard (Squad) on in Ermelo, but I couldn’t have imag- ble without him. He will always be in our ined that I would gain an English vaulting hearts.” —Melanie Ford (Squad) ON THE UNEXPECTED: “For one, I didn’t family, too! This was and will always be a expect to find a horse that I worked so ON INSIDE JOKES: “My time there was summer to remember.” well with. New Mix will always be one of filled with hilarious memories and crazy, my favorite horses ever from now on. For —Caroline Morse (Individual) never to be forgotten stories, but what two, would be falling off in my first-round ON TAKING IN THE SIGHTS: “One of happens in Ermelo must also stay in freestyle, but coming back from it so well my favorite non-vaulting things that we Ermelo…” —Marie Obeloer (Pas de Deux)

JW2 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 ON MEETING NEW LUNGERS AND were really focused whenever we were at VAULTERS: “Amazing. Simply amazing. the barn. It was also interesting for me to I loved working with my lunger and her see how other countries approached vault- vaulters. She was so nice and respectful ing. I was lucky since I was able to speak and even our humor meshed well!” the language of our host club, so I was —Jace Brooks (Individual) able to really connect with one of their coaches, and her style of teaching was very ON ‘SAME BUT DIFFERENT’: “The train- different from that of most Americans.” ings were quite similar to much that we —Marie Obeloer (Pas de Deux) have done at home with regards to practices on the Movie and weight training. ON OVERCOMING FEARS: Getting The horse trainings, however, were slightly to know new horses for me is always different, as there were less rounds on the nerve-racking at first, especially for team. horse, but each round was longer.” All horses have a different feeling to them —Sydney Schimack (Individual and Squad) so you never know if they are going to be very different than you’re used to, ON NEW HORSES & NEW PEOPLE: but every new horse I have vaulted on in “Training in Europe was a lot of fun. We Europe has been a blast, and I really found were able to go on many different horses, that I enjoyed it! Always with the horse even ones we weren’t planning to compete comes their lunger and crew. Getting to on. One of the best things was the connec- know your new team of people for your tion to the horse and lunger that we were horse is amazing.” able to get. Our team would not have been —Moira Hampton (Squad) able to make it onto the podium without Christina [Ender] and Feel the Beat ON CHALLENGING SURPRISES: “The (Toni). Also, our lunger had a daughter most challenging points in my training named Teresa (age 4), who was so funny evolved from the loss of Rio Grande, who and made everything that we did during was supposed to carry my individual practice and competition funnier.” and my team at Juniors. I had arrived in —Emma Milito (Squad) Germany the day before he passed, and so, during the two weeks I was by myself, ON MULTIPLE GENERATIONS: “Our trainings were scattered and on many differ- team was able to train at our coach ent horses as we searched for a new partner. Christoph [Lensing]’s home barn that he However, after finding Toni for team and grew up in. We even got to meet his old Turtock for my individual, the challenges coach and work with Team Rhede, who became few and far between as we were able are now some of our good friends.” to create stability and assurance.” —Moira Hampton (Squad) —Sydney Schimack (Individual and Squad) ON MISHAPS: “One funny thing that ON FITNESS, FRIENDS & HORSES: happened to us was during one of our “Training in Europe was heavily weighted Movie practices. Our coach was having us on fitness more than horse time. We went do a mount drill where we would swing on many runs and had a lot of purely our legs into a sideways handstand on a strength days. Meeting new friends in ladder that was against a wall. Melanie vaulting is always fun since they share the [Ford] was doing this exercise before me same love for vaulting. It’s easy to make and said, ‘I’m afraid I’m going to break new connections with everyone you meet! something.’ Christoph [Lensing] answered Trying new horses can be scary, since you with, ‘You’re not going to break anything.’ don’t know them as well as you know your That was when it was my turn and I own, but after a practice it becomes easier immediately kicked a water faucet that and gets better every day.” was part of the wall. It broke off and water —Hallie Dudley (Individual Alternate) started spewing out violently. We quickly ON DOWN TIME: “We were able to do rushed to get buckets to collect the water quite a few fun things in between training before we flooded the room. We ended and competition. I loved touring around up having to get someone who worked at Budapest. One of my most favorite places the barn to come and unlock a door so we was the Budapest Zoo—the animals were could turn off the water.” so fun to see! I loved the buildings and the —Rhianon Hampton (Squad) architecture—so beautiful. We also got to ON DIFFERENT APPROACHES: “Training tour around Amsterdam, did a canal tour in Europe was so much fun! I really liked and windmill tour. I loved walking the the efficiency that practices had, and we streets.” —Abigail Archibald (Pas de Deux)

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG JW5JW3 ON FINALLY ARRIVING: “When we first a wonderful place, where even though we ON TOGETHERNESS (LOTS): “One of got to the competition venue, it didn’t feel were competing against each other, we the more challenging aspects of this trip much different than any other competition were all still supportive and friendly and was that the team did spend every waking until I saw all of the different countries the venue really had that feeling in it.” moment together. We would end up there. A bunch of vaulters that I look up —Moira Hampton (Squad) getting in fights with each other, but they to were just walking around and it made ON CONNECTIONS: “I enjoyed meeting would all resolve and grow us together as me realize that we were there at the World and seeing many vaulters, longeurs, and a family.” —Emma Milito (Squad) Championships.” —Emma Milito (Squad) horse owners. Through vaulting, I have ON VAULTING AS A MELTING POT: “I ON GOOD VIBES: “Competing in Ermelo made so many friends throughout the enjoyed making a lot of new friendships was so much fun, especially because I had world.” and meeting people from all over the —Kylynn Ghafouri (Squad Alternate) watched so many videos of other vault- country, speaking loads of languages, yet ers competing in that same arena, both ON CLOSE QUARTERS: “The competition we were all very similar in many ways. in CVIs and in the 2015 and 2017 World venue was absolutely amazing. It was a I also loved spending time with my pas Championships. Tessa Belardi, who repre- beautiful facility. Quite a few people didn’t de deux team and touring the world with sented the U.S. at [Ebreichsdorf, Austria] like how close the stalls were, but I actu- them!” —Marie Obeloer (Pas de Deux) in 2017, told me before I competed to take ally loved it. It forced me to talk to people a minute in the arena to just appreciate I didn’t know and really get to know ON VISUALIZATION: “The competition what a cool experience the whole thing them.” —Jace Brooks (Individual) venue can seem overwhelming at first, was, which I’m really glad I did, because it but after being there for an hour or so, it ON AUDIENCE ENERGY: “Being at the was such a once-in-a-lifetime experience. becomes less overwhelming. As soon as venue was so fun to experience how loud She also told me that the arena had really I got to the venue, I took a walk around the crowd was. One of my favorite mem- good vibes, which I definitely found to be to get the general idea. Then my coach ories was a pair from Denmark: they had true.” —Parker Daley (Pas de Deux) had me go to the arena and visualize my a run-in song that everyone in the whole ON THE WARM UP: “The warm-up arena venue clapped along to!” rounds, which really helped!” was inspirational, because it allowed me —Hallie Dudley (Individual Alternate) —Hayden Avakian (Individual) the opportunity to watch the talented ON THE ‘KISS AND CRY’: “Growing up, ON DREAMING BIG: “For anyone whose vaulters warm up and compete, an experi- I would wake up in the middle of the goal is to go to Worlds, you can do it. ence I will never forget.” night to watch fellow American vaulters Dreams really can come true, but it’s not — Caroline Morse (Individual) compete at various championships and I easy. We have spent two years working ON THE GLOBAL VILLAGE: “One of always looked forward to seeing them on together as a squad, and finally made it. my favorite things was getting to see all the ‘kiss and cry,’ so when I was up on the We were able to show that a team from of the people from all around the world. stand and saw myself on the big screen, it Colorado really can do well at this level if Everyone was going around trading didn’t quite feel real.” they are dedicated enough. Don’t give up!” pins—the vaulting community is just such —Caroline Morse (Individual) —Augusta Rose Lewis (Squad Alternate)

JW4 EQUESTRIANVAULTING | Winter 2019 ON TIME WITH TEAMMATES: “Between and my coach, Kylynn [James]. While ‘RISE Athletes’ (which I wish I knew about sharing a house with some of my favorite we were there, we had the privilege to earlier). In this program, you get to meet vaulting buddies, to delirious conversa- see many new places, experience new with an Olympic athlete and they mentor tions late after practice, I had many hearty things, and meet new people, who we you on mental training and creating a laughs. Specifically, Todd Griffiths telling all consider lifelong friends. One of my game plan for competition day.” hilarious stories during our long car drives favorite memories while in Hungary was —Hayden Avakian (Individual) to practice.” staying at the lake house owned by one of ON ‘KEEPING ON KEEPING ON’: “No —Hayden Avakian (Individual) the Hungarian families. We were able to matter what you are feeling, don’t give ON GETTING AROUND: “My mom will relax and make many memories, as well up. I pushed through all of my self-doubt, probably be mad at me for saying this, but as spend more time with our Hungarian from starting my own team and coaching there were so many bicyclists everywhere. friends before jumping into the compe- myself to my first world championship— I think we almost took out a few.” tition week. The memories I made and to even doubting I was going to be good —Kylynn Ghafouri (Squad Alternate) the experiences I had while in Europe are enough for my coach to spend his time those I will remember for a lifetime.” working with me. But through all of that, ON OPPORTUNITY: “I am so grateful —Calle Davis (Pas de Deux) for the opportunity I had to attend Junior I kept pushing and I can promise you, it Worlds in Ermelo. The feelings I had of ON PUBLIC TRANSIT: “Haley [Smith], really does pay off, if you have your mind representing the U.S. are indescribable. Marie [Obeloer], and I are not the best at set on it. That’s the amazing thing about I was honored and so proud. It felt really navigating public transportation. On our humans—if we want it bad enough, no awesome to be in a different country first day in Munich, we got lost trying to matter what, we will do what it takes to representing my country. I loved seeing take the S-Bahn and then bus to practice, accomplish it. I thank everyone so much my name on the screen followed by the and our lunger had to come pick us up in who has helped me along the way and United States of America. Very surreal. It’s the middle of a cornfield, because we got who will continue helping me on my path still hard for me to believe that we were off at the wrong spot. Driving to the barn in this sport.” part of such an amazing team—it seems from the pension we stayed at only took —Jace Brooks (Individual) almost like a dream. But I will never forget 15-20 minutes, but when we tried to take the people, the horses, the coaches, and the train, it took us like two hours! We beautiful country. I am thankful for Team also got caught not having actual tickets USA and the way we represented.” on the train, but we managed to get out of —Abigail Archibald (Pas de Deux) paying the ¤60-each fine.” —Parker Daley (Pas de Deux) ON MAKING MEMORIES: “Before attending the FEI Vaulting World ON MENTAL TRAINING: “I strongly Championships for Juniors in Ermelo, I believe that mental training is really had the opportunity to stay in Hungary important to prepare for a world champi- along with my teammate, Abi [Archibald], onship. I worked with a program called

AMERICANVAULTING.ORG JW5 CAUGHT ON CAMERA: 2019 JUNIOR WORLDS