NEDA May 2021 A Tip of the Hat
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N E D A’ S A W A R D W I N N I N G N E W S L E T T E R<br />
A<strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong><br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
PRESIDENT’S PAGE<br />
H<br />
appy Spring Everyone!<br />
All you Florida folks can come back now,<br />
<strong>the</strong> snow is <strong>of</strong>f <strong>the</strong> ro<strong>of</strong> and <strong>the</strong> ice has melted.<br />
T<br />
his month I would like to focus<br />
on transference – transferring<br />
what we learn from one context<br />
to ano<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Like many <strong>of</strong> us I did not start out as a<br />
dressage rider. In fact, I spent my childhood<br />
in a Western saddle that still sits on a rack in<br />
my basement. Then <strong>the</strong> dreaded flat hunt<br />
saddle learning in which I learned point,<br />
count, neck release, forward seat (and pray).<br />
When I took up dressage seriously my coach<br />
spent years getting me onto my seat bones.<br />
Yet in each <strong>of</strong> those disciplines <strong>the</strong>re were<br />
things I could carry forward. With each<br />
new/different horse I rode, I learned something<br />
new but kept a bit <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> previous – including<br />
fear, which taught me to ride <strong>the</strong><br />
horse you have under you, not <strong>the</strong> one that<br />
used to spook in this same corner.<br />
Then <strong>the</strong>re is transferring what you learn<br />
at home (or that winning ride in <strong>the</strong> warmup)<br />
to <strong>the</strong> show ring. I remember reading about<br />
an Olympian who upon her first international<br />
competition venue, had to remind herself that<br />
<strong>the</strong> “box” is <strong>the</strong> same no matter where you<br />
go. How to push out all <strong>the</strong> distractions and<br />
focus on those same patterns, in this everfamiliar<br />
20X60m ring?<br />
For <strong>the</strong> trainers reading this, how many<br />
times have you wanted to say, or actually<br />
have said to your students, but I’ve been<br />
telling you that forever! We come back from<br />
a lesson or clinic with a different trainer with<br />
<strong>the</strong>se amazing ah ha’s that are really just<br />
rephrasing what we already knew. Sometimes<br />
its because we are listening differently,<br />
sometimes because <strong>the</strong> words used<br />
to convey <strong>the</strong> concept are different, and<br />
sometimes <strong>the</strong> concept is conveyed in a different<br />
format – analogies or images instead<br />
<strong>of</strong> words.<br />
My favorite this month was when my<br />
Riding Pilates trainer (if you are FBF’s with<br />
me you know who I mean) said “now go do<br />
that on a moving object – your horse”. I have<br />
been spending many mornings learning to<br />
differentiate <strong>the</strong> pressure I put on <strong>the</strong> ball <strong>of</strong><br />
my left foot from that <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> little toe or heel<br />
<strong>of</strong> my right foot. Then <strong>the</strong>re is <strong>the</strong> movement<br />
<strong>of</strong> my pubic bone to my nose and back to my<br />
tail bone (don’t repeat that on social media!).<br />
Or learning to move each vertebra independently<br />
as I bridge up and down. It all seems<br />
relatively manageable on my mat, but <strong>the</strong>n I<br />
get on this gorgeous 17.1h big shouldermoving<br />
creature in an arena with <strong>the</strong> wind<br />
blowing outside and things get a little fuzzy.<br />
Yet, magically one day I just think about<br />
tapping down my big toe and I have a transition<br />
from canter to trot that even my trainer<br />
doesn’t wince at!<br />
How do we take what we learn in one<br />
context and apply it to ano<strong>the</strong>r? As a sports<br />
psychologist recently said on our <strong>NEDA</strong><br />
Know How Series, focus on what you know<br />
how to do. Make a list <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> things you<br />
do well, <strong>the</strong>n practice those. Make a list <strong>of</strong><br />
what feels difficult, create a plan for getting<br />
better at those. Keep your lists and goals in<br />
mind, no matter where that 20X60m ring<br />
happens to be.<br />
Happy transference to all! Hope to see<br />
you soon.<br />
Cheers<br />
Iris<br />
Iris<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 3
A <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong><br />
Contents:<br />
3 President’s Page<br />
5 <strong>NEDA</strong> Know How: Christoph Koschel<br />
6 Support <strong>the</strong> Spring Show<br />
7 <strong>NEDA</strong> Spring Show News<br />
7 Year End Awards<br />
8 Competing in <strong>the</strong> Time <strong>of</strong> COVID-19<br />
9 Wanted: Nominations Manager Position<br />
10 Obituary: Susan Wildman<br />
12 Disguised as Simplicity:<br />
The Equine Hand, Part 1<br />
14 <strong>NEDA</strong> Pony Series<br />
15 From Carriage Driving<br />
to Ridden Dressage<br />
16 Educational Scholarship Info<br />
17 Morsels <strong>of</strong> Equine Information<br />
20 Thank you! from Shannon Dueck<br />
21 Congratulations Daniela Valentgas<br />
22 <strong>NEDA</strong> Calendar <strong>2021</strong><br />
23 Region 8 News<br />
24 Youth Corner<br />
25 Youth Corner: Chatting with<br />
W Spotlight<br />
26 Stallion Paddock<br />
A <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong> is a publication <strong>of</strong> The New England<br />
Dressage Association, Inc., a non-pr<strong>of</strong>it, tax exempt<br />
corporation.<br />
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS<br />
AND CHANGES OF ADDRESS<br />
Please contact: Tammy Paparella<br />
6 Pratt’s Junction Rd.<br />
Sterling, MA 01564<br />
978-422-2324<br />
memberentry@neda.org<br />
A TIP OF THE HAT ADVERTISING<br />
Classified ads must be submitted to <strong>the</strong> Advertising<br />
Editor via email in plain text (.txt) or word (.doc).<br />
Display ads and photos may be submitted via email<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Advertising Editor. Ads must be high resolution,<br />
press ready PDFs with all images and fonts embedded<br />
or high resolution TIF, JPG or EPS. MS Word doc templates<br />
are available for your use at neda.org and can be<br />
converted to PDFs.<br />
All ads must be submitted to <strong>the</strong> Advertising Editor<br />
with a check made out to <strong>NEDA</strong>.<br />
Contact: Angela Prenosil,<br />
413-627-2699 ▲tipads@neda.org<br />
Follow us!<br />
@<strong>NEDA</strong>dressage<br />
#<strong>NEDA</strong>dressage<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> <strong>2021</strong> OFFICERS<br />
President:<br />
Iris Berdrow<br />
781-589-6422<br />
president@neda.org<br />
Vice President-Activities:<br />
Kate O’Connor<br />
508-612-6985<br />
vpactivities@neda.org<br />
Vice President-Services:<br />
Jennifer Dillon<br />
508-641-3121<br />
vpservices@neda.org<br />
Board Secretary:<br />
Hea<strong>the</strong>r Stone<br />
617-480-8077<br />
secretary@neda.org<br />
Treasurer:<br />
Helen van der Voort<br />
917-834-2635<br />
treasurer@neda.org<br />
COORDINATORS<br />
and MANAGERS<br />
EDUCATION COMMITTEE<br />
Education Coordinator:<br />
Sally Davenport<br />
781-378-1881; 781-854-2547<br />
education@neda.org<br />
Judge Education Facilitator:<br />
Karry Bro<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
518-768-1233<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>rsk@neda.org<br />
Symposium Organizer:<br />
Beth Beukema<br />
508-320-6549<br />
fallsym@neda.org<br />
COMPETITION COMMITTEE<br />
Competitions Coordinator:<br />
Beth Jenkins<br />
508-655-6490; 508-733-3672<br />
shows@neda.org<br />
Spring Show:<br />
Paul Cormier<br />
508-995-5988; 508-847-2931<br />
springshow@neda.org<br />
Schooling Shows Manager:<br />
Peter Chavonelle, Jr.<br />
schoolingshows@neda.org<br />
Sport Horse/Breed Shows:<br />
Kathy Hickerson<br />
603-673-4344; 603-557-4054<br />
sporthorse@neda.org<br />
Year-End Awards:<br />
Cathy Liston<br />
yea@neda.org<br />
Awards Manager:<br />
Cathy Liston<br />
awards@neda.org<br />
COORDINATORS and MANAGERS<br />
SPONSORSHIP COMMITTEE<br />
Sponsorship Coordinator:<br />
Kari Cincotta<br />
781-654-7694<br />
sponsorship@neda.org<br />
Sponsor Facilitator:<br />
Open<br />
sponsorfacilitator@neda.org<br />
Sponsor Development:<br />
Open<br />
sponsordev@neda.org<br />
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE<br />
Membership Services Coordinator:<br />
Dawn Mackenzie<br />
518-657-1773<br />
membership@neda.org<br />
Nominations:<br />
Open<br />
volunteer@neda.org<br />
Ombudsman:<br />
Lainey Johnson<br />
978-568-0523<br />
ombudsman@neda.org<br />
Member-at-Large:<br />
Leslie de Grandmaison<br />
603-759-4642<br />
memberatlarge@neda.org<br />
Kerstin Witaszek<br />
413-695-0693<br />
witaszekk@neda.org<br />
PUBLIC RELATIONS<br />
COMMITTEE<br />
Public Relations Coordinator:<br />
Krista Nordgren<br />
207-749-6643<br />
pr@neda.org<br />
Photography:<br />
Carole MacDonald<br />
508-366-7886<br />
photo@neda.org<br />
Technology Coordinator:<br />
Open<br />
technology@neda.org<br />
NEWSLETTER STAFF<br />
TIP Editor:<br />
Angela Prenosil<br />
413-627-2699<br />
<strong>Tip</strong>Editor@neda.org<br />
Graphic Design:<br />
June Evers<br />
845-294-0656<br />
jevers@warwick.net<br />
TIP Advertising:<br />
Angela Prenosil<br />
413-627-2699<br />
tipads@neda.org<br />
Cover photo from<br />
our Morsels <strong>of</strong> Equine<br />
Information article,<br />
details about this horse<br />
and rider on page 17.<br />
Photo: Carole MacDonald<br />
USDF REGION 8<br />
Region 8 Director:<br />
Debra Reinhardt<br />
region8dir@usdf.org<br />
Youth Coordinator:<br />
Bobbi Carleton<br />
bobbicarleton@aol.com<br />
ADDITIONAL CONTACTS<br />
& OFF-BOARD ROLES<br />
Membership Services:<br />
Tammy Paparella<br />
978-257-1374<br />
region8dir@usdf.org<br />
Fall Show Manager:<br />
Kathy Grisolia<br />
631-338-6340<br />
fallshow@neda.org<br />
Fall Festival Volunteer<br />
Recruitment:<br />
Helen van der Voort<br />
917-834-2635<br />
fallvolunteer@neda.org<br />
Summer Show Manager:<br />
Paul Cormier<br />
508-995-5988; 508-847-2931<br />
springshow@neda.org<br />
Nor<strong>the</strong>ast Region OPL:<br />
Doreen Quintilliani<br />
Jennifer Dillon<br />
opl@neda.org<br />
Advertising - Outbound:<br />
advertising@neda.org<br />
Scholarships:<br />
Amy Bresky<br />
978-270-3880<br />
scholarships@neda.org<br />
Partners in Education Tier 1:<br />
Angela Prenosil<br />
413-627-2699<br />
edpartners1@neda.org<br />
Partners in Education Tier 2:<br />
Ann Smith<br />
edpartners2@neda.org<br />
Accountant:<br />
Carol Gordon<br />
774-225-8878<br />
accountant@neda.org<br />
Equine Affaire:<br />
Karin Swanfeldt<br />
ea@neda.org<br />
Youth Liaison:<br />
Sophia Chavonelle<br />
youth@neda.org<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> Stallion Auction, Recruitment:<br />
Mary Barrett<br />
978-270-3338<br />
stallionrecruit@neda.org<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> Stallion Auction:<br />
Kathy Hickerson<br />
603-673-4344; 603-557-4054<br />
stallionauction@neda.org<br />
The Salute, Editor:<br />
Gail Wagner<br />
salute@neda.org<br />
The Salute, layout & design:<br />
Cheri Bryant<br />
bryantdesign@me.com<br />
4 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
EDUCATION<br />
Know<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong><br />
How<br />
SESSION FEB 18TH:<br />
Christoph Koschel<br />
on Selecting a Dressage Horse<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> members were treated to Christoph<br />
Koschel’s Zoom lecture, “Selecting a<br />
Dressage Horse.” A Grand Prix rider, trainer,<br />
and instructor, Christoph was a member <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> German team that won silver at <strong>the</strong> 2011<br />
European Championships.<br />
Christoph’s presentation was a huge hit<br />
as evidenced by <strong>the</strong> numerous excellent<br />
questions posed by participants. His insightful<br />
and detailed answers covered<br />
everything from conformation to <strong>the</strong> importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> temperament, to <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> an<br />
amateur rider versus those <strong>of</strong> a pr<strong>of</strong>essional,<br />
and more.<br />
Some key take-aways included:<br />
n Amateurs should look for a horse that is<br />
willing to go forward, has a good connection,<br />
is rhythmic and balanced, able to<br />
collect, responsive to <strong>the</strong> aids and, above<br />
all, has a good character<br />
n When trying a horse, ride a lot <strong>of</strong> transitions<br />
(trot-canter-trot and walk-canterwalk),<br />
and play with <strong>the</strong> gears within <strong>the</strong><br />
gaits; this will tell you a lot about a horse.<br />
n Beware <strong>of</strong> walks that are too big as <strong>the</strong>y<br />
tend to become lateral when you go to<br />
collect <strong>the</strong> horse.<br />
n A very short neck can be problematic: if<br />
too short in <strong>the</strong> snaffle, it will be exacerbated<br />
with <strong>the</strong> double bridle.<br />
n Pedigree is important because it can tell<br />
you a lot about <strong>the</strong> horse’s gaits, temperament,<br />
and aptitude for whatever it is<br />
you plan to do with him. For example,<br />
Donnerhall horses are willing but not nec-<br />
essarily great candidates for young horse<br />
classes. However, <strong>the</strong>y tend to make very<br />
good Grand Prix horses.<br />
n Don’t be quick to rule out a horse for a<br />
conformational issue: a horses’ willingness<br />
to work is far more important than<br />
perfect conformation.<br />
n When buying remotely work with<br />
someone you really trust who will show<br />
everything from <strong>the</strong> horse being groomed<br />
and tacked up, to being ridden, to being<br />
loaded on a trailer, etc. to give you an accurate<br />
overall impression <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> horse.<br />
n Christoph likes <strong>the</strong> Iberian breeds for amateurs,<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y are comfortable, willing to<br />
work, and have good temperaments. Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />
like <strong>the</strong> hotter horses<br />
n The trot is <strong>the</strong> easiest gait to improve, but<br />
don’t despair; <strong>the</strong> walk and canter can<br />
also be improved through correct riding<br />
and training.<br />
As someone who has a horse built<br />
downhill, I was thrilled to hear Christoph say<br />
that downhill horses are not a hopeless case<br />
or unworthy <strong>of</strong> fur<strong>the</strong>r training. Conformation<br />
challenges (such as my gelding’s) as well as<br />
long back, short back, and so on will help you<br />
determine how to ride <strong>the</strong> horse to his<br />
greatest advantage.<br />
In closing, you will notice “willingness”<br />
and “good character” repeated throughout.<br />
It’s clear that <strong>the</strong>se qualities are high on<br />
Christoph’s list and, as an international rider<br />
and trainer, he certainly knows what matters<br />
most when selecting a horse, whe<strong>the</strong>r you<br />
are a timid amateur who wants to have fun<br />
on a daily basis, or you are a pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
with your sights set on <strong>the</strong> highest level.<br />
Place inside graphics:<br />
n Rideability is more important than fancy<br />
gaits<br />
n It’s important to enjoy your horse every<br />
day<br />
n Age doesn’t matter if <strong>the</strong> character is<br />
good. Well-behaved horses are this way<br />
from an early age.<br />
Survey says our members learned:<br />
“I loved <strong>the</strong> exposure to a top European<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional--he was so nice! I appreciated<br />
his comments and kindness towards <strong>the</strong><br />
needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> amateur. In a few years, I hope<br />
to purchase my first "real" dressage horse<br />
and his comments on <strong>the</strong> primary importance<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> horse's personality/behavior and<br />
building a partnership (no matter what my<br />
age) were useful to my search.”<br />
“I loved his philosophy especially when he<br />
said that my relationship with my horse is<br />
emotional. To respect <strong>the</strong> fact that she is a<br />
living breathing being and work with her as<br />
a team. I know this but it always helps when<br />
a amazing rider and trainer reaffirms it.”<br />
“Transitions in a circle when trying a horse<br />
for a quick check <strong>of</strong> suppleness and<br />
throughness!”<br />
“Always honor those horses that are<br />
blessed with an abundance <strong>of</strong> willingness.”<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 5
Great publicity for your business<br />
for only $35.00!<br />
$upport <strong>the</strong><br />
$pring $how!<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> is getting ready for <strong>the</strong> <strong>2021</strong><br />
competition season and <strong>the</strong> Spring<br />
Show will be here in no time. This<br />
show has always been successful and<br />
a crowd pleaser with competitors and<br />
spectators in <strong>the</strong> past.<br />
In response to <strong>the</strong> feedback from<br />
our competitors we will be moving<br />
to a new premium horse show facility,<br />
Fieldstone Show Park in Halifax, Ma.<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> considerable increase<br />
in costs for <strong>the</strong> new location, and in<br />
order for <strong>the</strong> show to be a financial<br />
success, competition management is<br />
asking for support from our members<br />
in <strong>the</strong> form <strong>of</strong> Sponsorship.<br />
In 2019 we had nearly 39 classes<br />
spread over <strong>the</strong> two days <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> show<br />
but only 7 class sponsors. It would<br />
**This support can be shown<br />
through Program Ads, Banner<br />
space, or Class Sponsorship.**<br />
NAME as you wish it to appear in <strong>the</strong> program:<br />
be great if we have sponsors for<br />
every class.<br />
You as an individual, a farm or just<br />
a group <strong>of</strong> friends can sponsor can<br />
a class for just $35 or receive a $5<br />
discount per class by sponsoring a<br />
class on each day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> competition.<br />
The show will be <strong>of</strong>fering classes from<br />
Training Level 1 through Grand Prix<br />
and this one way you can let people<br />
know you support <strong>NEDA</strong>.<br />
All you have to do is send a check<br />
for $35 per class or $60 for one class<br />
per each day made out to <strong>NEDA</strong>, your<br />
name as you wish it to appear in <strong>the</strong><br />
program* and your choice <strong>of</strong> class or<br />
classes you wish to sponsor. Thanks<br />
for your support.<br />
Details on sponsorship can<br />
be found on <strong>the</strong> Spring Show<br />
page on <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> Web Site.<br />
_______________________________________________________<br />
CLASS: (first choice)______________________________________<br />
(second choice)___________________________________<br />
Mail to: Debra Reinhardt, 160 Woods Way Drive, Southbury CT 06488<br />
**Due to <strong>the</strong> possible limitations placed on show management by<br />
<strong>the</strong> USEF Covid-19 Protocols access to <strong>the</strong> show grounds may be<br />
restricted and actual hard copies <strong>of</strong> show programs may not be<br />
permitted. If this is <strong>the</strong> case it is our hope to produce an E Program<br />
with all <strong>the</strong> same promotional opportunities an in a normal show<br />
program. In ei<strong>the</strong>r case <strong>the</strong> support <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> membership is still<br />
needed to make <strong>the</strong> show a financial success.**<br />
GREAT Exposure!<br />
Good will!<br />
Publicity!<br />
Only $35.00!<br />
Open to businesses,<br />
instructors, farms,<br />
individuals or<br />
a group <strong>of</strong> friends<br />
who want to show<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir support <strong>of</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>!<br />
All are welcome!<br />
Great publicity<br />
for business<br />
and great fun<br />
for friends,<br />
only $35.00!<br />
6 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
COMPETITION NEWS<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong><br />
Spring<br />
Show<br />
T<br />
he <strong>NEDA</strong> Spring show is<br />
rapidly approaching and<br />
even with <strong>the</strong> COVID-19<br />
protocols <strong>the</strong>re are several opportunities<br />
available to those who would like to<br />
support <strong>the</strong> show outside <strong>of</strong> entries and<br />
volunteering. There WILL be vendor<br />
space onsite so if you’re interested in<br />
being a vendor please reach out to show<br />
manager, Paul Cormier at<br />
cormierp@neda.org. Also, <strong>the</strong>re are opportunities<br />
for class sponsorship as well<br />
as banner display on <strong>the</strong> grounds.<br />
Hard copy programs will not be allowed.<br />
However, <strong>the</strong>re will be a virtual<br />
program available on <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> website.<br />
If you would like to put an ad in <strong>the</strong> virtual<br />
program that will be accessible to ALL<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> membership in addition to class<br />
sponsorship, let Paul know. As it will be<br />
virtual on <strong>the</strong> website this allows for links<br />
to your website; a bonus by any<br />
standard!!!! Go to <strong>NEDA</strong>.org, access <strong>the</strong><br />
Spring Show page under <strong>the</strong> show<br />
heading, <strong>the</strong>n scroll down for sponsorship<br />
rates and <strong>the</strong> appropriate form. There is<br />
a direct link on that same page for class<br />
sponsorship and volunteering.<br />
This is a new era for shows and while<br />
<strong>the</strong>re appears to be hope on <strong>the</strong> horizon<br />
for a return to some sort <strong>of</strong> “normalcy”<br />
nothing is immediate. Your support<br />
through volunteering, class sponsorship,<br />
purchasing banner space and being a<br />
vendor has never been as vital to a show’s<br />
success as it is currently. We look forward<br />
to putting <strong>the</strong> best effort that <strong>NEDA</strong> as an<br />
organization can with your help.<br />
See you at <strong>the</strong> show!<br />
Year End Awards<br />
If you haven’t already received your 2020 <strong>NEDA</strong> Year End awards,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y will be sent out shortly so watch your mail for a package from<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong>. Thank you for your patience and congratulations again on a<br />
successful 2020!<br />
Please contact Cathy Liston with any questions or concerns<br />
yea@neda.org.<br />
Photo: Connor Triehy<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 7
F<br />
COMPETITON NEWS<br />
or those <strong>of</strong> you who have not<br />
yet been to a competition or who<br />
have not yet read <strong>the</strong> USEF<br />
COVID-19 Action plan and its weekly updates,<br />
this is a brief primer on what USEF<br />
requires in <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong> COVID-19 as well as<br />
what else you might expect from competition<br />
management. For those who have<br />
been competing or read my prior article in<br />
<strong>the</strong> TIP, <strong>the</strong> newer requirements are at <strong>the</strong><br />
end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> document.<br />
First, know that shows are doing <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
best to provide as safe an environment as<br />
possible and have taken on a lot <strong>of</strong> extra<br />
work and expense to provide this atmosphere<br />
although this is no guarantee you<br />
won’t be exposed to COVID-19. In addition,<br />
this article is not an answer to <strong>the</strong> question<br />
<strong>of</strong> whe<strong>the</strong>r to compete or not. It is a presentation<br />
<strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> basics <strong>of</strong> what a recognized<br />
competition looks like currently in<br />
case you decide to take part. If you choose<br />
to compete, it is up to you to follow <strong>the</strong> rules,<br />
even if you personally don’t believe <strong>the</strong> restrictions<br />
help.<br />
Show management has specific requirements<br />
from USEF <strong>the</strong>y are supposed to<br />
follow including having a person or persons<br />
to monitor <strong>the</strong> grounds and stabling to ascertain<br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r competitors and o<strong>the</strong>r attendees<br />
are doing what is requested <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>m. Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se requests and requirements<br />
are listed below. Pay attention as<br />
well to additional policies which may be implemented<br />
by management, especially<br />
those regarding refunds and cancellation.<br />
The USEF Technical Delegate is charged<br />
by USEF to include in <strong>the</strong>ir mandatory competition<br />
report both compliance by management<br />
to COVID-19 policies but also<br />
include names <strong>of</strong> people who have not been<br />
compliant as well as those who have been<br />
asked to leave <strong>the</strong> grounds for <strong>the</strong> remainder<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> competition because <strong>the</strong>y<br />
would not follow <strong>the</strong> current guidelines.<br />
8 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong><br />
Competing<br />
Competing<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Time <strong>of</strong><br />
If you choose to compete or attend a<br />
competition in any capacity, please do your<br />
part to keep dressage shows going. Don’t<br />
be someone who wears a mask only when<br />
you think someone is checking.<br />
What are you required to do prior to <strong>the</strong><br />
competition? Clarification and additional<br />
information about each item are written in<br />
italics.<br />
As a competitor or attendee at any<br />
USEF/USDF recognized competition,<br />
you are on your honor to:<br />
n Do not come if you think you are<br />
coming down with COVID-19<br />
symptoms.<br />
l If you do need to cancel<br />
because you think you are<br />
coming down with something,<br />
check <strong>the</strong> show refund policy.<br />
n Do not come if you have a<br />
temperature <strong>of</strong> 99.5’ or higher.<br />
l Some competitions may<br />
actually check your temperature<br />
(and that <strong>of</strong> anyone with<br />
you) as you come onto <strong>the</strong><br />
grounds.<br />
n Follow <strong>the</strong> show mandated<br />
requirements such as COM-<br />
PLETELY filling out your entries<br />
prior to sending <strong>the</strong>m in.<br />
l This process is very important<br />
and eliminates or reduces<br />
contact with <strong>the</strong> show <strong>of</strong>fice<br />
and protects both you and<br />
<strong>the</strong>m from unnecessary handling<br />
<strong>of</strong> papers.<br />
l Sign <strong>the</strong> Covid waiver.<br />
l In addition to limiting paper<br />
handling prior to <strong>the</strong> competition,<br />
many competitions may<br />
not give you your test after<br />
your ride, but will scan and<br />
send it to you. Usually, your<br />
scores are available on <strong>the</strong><br />
web, depending upon which<br />
computer program <strong>the</strong> scorers<br />
are using. O<strong>the</strong>r competitions<br />
may mail tests and/or ribbons<br />
to you. Some may ask that<br />
you pick up prizes and special<br />
ribbons before you leave<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y will not send <strong>the</strong>se<br />
to you.<br />
n If traveling over state borders,<br />
check travel restrictions and<br />
don’t use travel restrictions as<br />
an excuse to scratch after <strong>the</strong><br />
closing date. This information<br />
is readily available on line and<br />
from <strong>the</strong> show management and<br />
should be accessed early in <strong>the</strong><br />
application process.<br />
As a competitor at a USEF/USDF<br />
recognized competition you are<br />
required to:<br />
n Wear a face mask or face<br />
covering at all times when not<br />
mounted on a horse.<br />
l If you are a rider, keep your<br />
face mask in your pocket so<br />
you can put it on <strong>the</strong> minute<br />
you dismount from your horse.<br />
l Keep your face mask on in <strong>the</strong><br />
stabling area as well, even in<br />
a family or ‘barn’ group.
COVID 19- cont’d<br />
n Follow <strong>the</strong> six-foot socialdistancing<br />
rule.<br />
l Family members can be<br />
within six feet <strong>of</strong> each o<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
but that is it.<br />
l It is hard for <strong>the</strong> TD, or <strong>the</strong><br />
person assigned by management<br />
to monitor COVID-19<br />
compliance, to know who is<br />
and is not in a ‘family’ group<br />
so make it easy on <strong>the</strong>m by<br />
just staying six feet apart.<br />
n Wash or sanitize your hands<br />
frequently.<br />
l Most shows provide multiple<br />
hand sanitizing stations<br />
around <strong>the</strong> grounds although<br />
it is a good idea to bring your<br />
own wipes, just in case.<br />
n Restrict <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong><br />
individuals joining you at <strong>the</strong><br />
competition.<br />
l No spectators are allowed!<br />
That includes horse owner,<br />
friends, family members, and<br />
staff at <strong>the</strong> barn where you<br />
board, etc. unless one is also<br />
<strong>the</strong> trainer.<br />
l Technically, you are allowed<br />
only “necessary support personnel”<br />
such as a groom and<br />
trainer.<br />
l Yes, coaches are also allowed<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y usually work with multiple<br />
individuals, but <strong>the</strong>y are<br />
not “necessary” in <strong>the</strong> barn<br />
area.<br />
n Contact <strong>the</strong> show <strong>of</strong>fice as<br />
well as USEF and let <strong>the</strong>m know<br />
that you are getting sick if you<br />
contract an illness while at <strong>the</strong><br />
competition.<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r Covid restrictions at <strong>the</strong> show<br />
per <strong>2021</strong> USEF Covid Rules:<br />
n Food service may be restricted as<br />
based on local health requirements or<br />
hours <strong>of</strong> service may be limited.<br />
n The time schedule must be posted in<br />
electronic format and/or in an area<br />
where social distancing can be adhered<br />
to.<br />
n Flexibility with ride scheduled must be<br />
allowed.<br />
n Saddlery and equipment checks will<br />
be visual and random. The Technical<br />
Delegate may follow <strong>the</strong> competitor to<br />
a designated area if necessary.<br />
n Scores may be sent electronically<br />
(e.g. via text) to competitors and/or<br />
posted via internet.<br />
n If scoresheets are only made available<br />
after <strong>the</strong> competition day by electronic<br />
methods, management must extend<br />
<strong>the</strong> deadline for reporting <strong>of</strong> ma<strong>the</strong>matical<br />
errors to 24 hours from time <strong>of</strong><br />
distribution. Scores will be corrected<br />
but class placements will not change.<br />
n Equine Drugs and Medications Form<br />
must be filed with <strong>the</strong> Technical Delegate<br />
(TD) or Designated Office Representative<br />
(DRO) within one hour<br />
after administration or one hour after<br />
<strong>the</strong> TD or DRO returns to duty if administration<br />
is at a time o<strong>the</strong>r than<br />
during competition hours.<br />
If an online form cannot be submitted<br />
due to lack <strong>of</strong> internet or<br />
phone service, a paper form may be<br />
submitted. This option must only<br />
be used with submitting <strong>the</strong> online<br />
form is impossible.<br />
During and/or after <strong>the</strong> competition, do<br />
not hesitate to thank management and <strong>the</strong><br />
volunteers for making <strong>the</strong> competition possible.<br />
Ultimately, it is still your decision as to<br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r you want to participate in a competition<br />
during COVID-19. Although management<br />
will do <strong>the</strong>ir best, <strong>the</strong>re are no<br />
guarantees <strong>the</strong> grounds are COVID-free<br />
and that you will not come in contact with<br />
<strong>the</strong>m. As mentioned, if you decide to<br />
compete, please help management and<br />
your fellow competitors by following <strong>the</strong><br />
guidelines. This will also help limit your<br />
contact with <strong>the</strong> disease<br />
If you have questions, contact USEF,<br />
USDF or <strong>the</strong> show you wish to attend.<br />
USEF updates <strong>the</strong>ir COVID-19 Action Plan<br />
on Tuesdays. Prior to competing, you<br />
should review <strong>the</strong> “Participant” section <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> latest Action Plan version on USEF’s<br />
home page, www.usef.org.<br />
Sally Davenport<br />
Sally Davenport<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> Coordinator <strong>of</strong> Education<br />
USEF “R” TD and FEI Steward<br />
W A N T E D !<br />
THE <strong>NEDA</strong> BOARD NEEDS YOU!<br />
Nominations Manager<br />
The Nominations Manager will be responsible<br />
for identifying and recruiting candidates to be<br />
presented to <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> Board for any Board<br />
vacancies, prepare annual ballot, maintain<br />
accurate job descriptions and o<strong>the</strong>r information<br />
required to fill vacancies, etc. Email for full job<br />
descriptions and details<br />
This role is a board position, so<br />
you'll have a large part in shaping<br />
what <strong>NEDA</strong> <strong>of</strong>fers to members!<br />
Contact: nominations@neda.org<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 9
OBITUARY<br />
Susan<br />
Wildman<br />
The dressage, and equestrian community as a whole,<br />
lost a beautiful soul recently in Susan Melodie Maas<br />
Wildman at <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 61. If you knew Sue, you were lucky<br />
indeed. <strong>May</strong>be you saw her supporting one <strong>of</strong> her horses<br />
and/or friends at a horse show, or you most certainly would<br />
have seen her volunteering. Susan loved her horses and<br />
<strong>the</strong> people that became part <strong>of</strong> her barn community with <strong>the</strong><br />
utmost passion and zeal. She will be remembered by her<br />
gentle spirit, kindness, extreme generosity and maybe most<br />
<strong>of</strong> all by her captivating smile and laugh.<br />
Susan is survived by her beautiful daughters, Ellie and Catie.<br />
Susan Wildman<br />
10 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
GENERAL INTEREST<br />
DISGUISED AS SIMPLICITY:<br />
The Equine<br />
Hand<br />
BY BETH ANN CRONAN<br />
PART 1<br />
Y<br />
our horse’s registration reports that your horse is 15.2<br />
hands in height. What is he in inches? That sounds<br />
simple enough: you know that a hand is 4 inches, so<br />
you do a straightforward ma<strong>the</strong>matical equation: 15.2<br />
x 4 = 60.8. Your horse is 60.8 inches tall.<br />
But 15.2 is “equine math” and <strong>the</strong> 0.2 in <strong>the</strong> 15.2 is equine math for<br />
2 inches. To <strong>the</strong> non-equine hand world, 0.2 is two tenths in <strong>the</strong><br />
decimal numeral system. This is <strong>the</strong> base-ten positional system. (The<br />
base-ten positional system is <strong>the</strong> same numerical system used in<br />
dressage test scoring.) To get <strong>the</strong> correct number <strong>of</strong> inches,<br />
multiple <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> hands without <strong>the</strong> number after <strong>the</strong> decimal<br />
point: 15 by 4. The answer is 60. Add <strong>the</strong> 0.2 which in equine math is<br />
2 inches. Your horse is 62 inches tall.<br />
The supposedly simple equine hand has a fur<strong>the</strong>r storied and complex<br />
history.<br />
A hand is an anthropic unit <strong>of</strong> measurement. Anthropic is loosely defined<br />
as “relating to humans”. Originally <strong>the</strong> equine hand was based<br />
on <strong>the</strong> width <strong>of</strong> a male human’s hand. Not only do men’s hands differ<br />
in width, but <strong>the</strong>re was no standardization <strong>of</strong> whe<strong>the</strong>r to include <strong>the</strong><br />
thumb in <strong>the</strong> measurement <strong>of</strong> a hand. The equine hand varied drastically<br />
from area to area within countries.<br />
The Egyptians produced <strong>the</strong> earliest recorded system <strong>of</strong> measurement<br />
in approximately 3000 BC. This first standardization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> equine hand<br />
was plagued with extreme variations. In some areas <strong>of</strong> Egypt, <strong>the</strong> thumb<br />
and palm were used but in o<strong>the</strong>rs, just <strong>the</strong> width <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> palm. The generally<br />
accepted measurements, area dependent, ranged from 3 inches,<br />
7.61 cm, to 5 inches, 12.7 cm.<br />
For simplicity’s sake, this example will use <strong>the</strong> horse height <strong>of</strong><br />
15.0 hands and two fictional Egyptian towns, A and B.<br />
Fictional Egyptian Town A used a 3-inch hand standard (no thumb included<br />
in <strong>the</strong> width measurement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hand). If a seller in Town A<br />
had a 15.0 hand horse for sale, that horse would be 45 inches tall.<br />
12 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
EQUINE HAND- cont’d<br />
Town A Equation:<br />
15.0 hand horse x Town A 3" hand = 45<br />
inches<br />
Town B used a 5-inch hand (including <strong>the</strong><br />
thumb in <strong>the</strong> width <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hand measurement).<br />
A buyer in Town B would expect<br />
<strong>the</strong> 15.0 hand horse to be 75 inches tall.<br />
Town B Equation:<br />
15.0 hand horse x Town B 5" hand = 75<br />
inches<br />
That is a difference <strong>of</strong> 30 inches in <strong>the</strong> height<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> same 15.0 hand horse!<br />
By today’s 4-inch hand standard, Town A’s<br />
45-inch-tall horse would be 11.25 hands.<br />
Technically, <strong>the</strong> horse would be a pony.<br />
Town B’s 75-inch horse would be<br />
18.75 hands. Using equine math and not<br />
base-ten positional system math, 0.75<br />
would be 3 inches. At 18.3 hands, that<br />
would be a true equine giant.<br />
This worldwide measurement discrepancy<br />
wreaked havoc with horse sellers, buyers,<br />
and breeders for centuries. It was not until<br />
1540 that England’s King Henry VIII established<br />
<strong>the</strong> equine hand as 4 inches. With <strong>the</strong><br />
4-inch standardization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hand, a 15-<br />
hand horse is 60 inches in height regardless<br />
<strong>of</strong> what country or town <strong>the</strong> horse was<br />
measured in.<br />
What was also accepted was <strong>the</strong> abbreviation<br />
for hand as “h”. Then “hh” or hands<br />
high, was added to <strong>the</strong> king’s statute as<br />
being interchangeable with “h”: A horse’s<br />
height could be written as 15.0 h or 15.0<br />
hh. An accepted, definitive reference for<br />
buyers/sellers and breeders was finally established.<br />
Despite <strong>the</strong> variations in <strong>the</strong> actual width <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> hand, <strong>the</strong> Egyptian measurement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
horse did establish what was measured to<br />
determine <strong>the</strong> height <strong>of</strong> a horse: a straight<br />
line up from a front ho<strong>of</strong> to <strong>the</strong> wi<strong>the</strong>rs. The<br />
wi<strong>the</strong>rs were chosen because <strong>the</strong>y are a<br />
non-variable part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> horse's skeleton located<br />
above <strong>the</strong> shoulder and at <strong>the</strong> base <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> neck where it meets <strong>the</strong> back. Unlike <strong>the</strong><br />
head or back, <strong>the</strong> wi<strong>the</strong>rs are “fixed” and do<br />
not move up and down. When King Henry<br />
VIII created <strong>the</strong> 4-inch hand statute, he continued<br />
<strong>the</strong> Egyptian equine measuring<br />
standard <strong>of</strong> using <strong>the</strong> straight line from front<br />
ho<strong>of</strong> to wi<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
White Percheron Draft Horse mare, Molly, 16.0 hands standing with Angel, 11.2 hands black and white<br />
mixed breed pony. Photo: Carole MacDonald<br />
Unscrupulous people would change a<br />
horse’s measurement by allowing <strong>the</strong><br />
hooves to grow overly long making <strong>the</strong> horse<br />
measure taller than it actually was. Conversely,<br />
<strong>the</strong> hooves could be aggressively<br />
rasped, and <strong>the</strong> horse would measure<br />
shorter. These issues and o<strong>the</strong>r ho<strong>of</strong> related<br />
measuring information are discussed in<br />
detail in Part 2 <strong>of</strong> this article series.<br />
An etymological review finds <strong>the</strong> word<br />
wi<strong>the</strong>rs in 1570s Old English and German.<br />
The ancient Egyptian word for wi<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
was not found. Wi<strong>the</strong>rs derived from <strong>the</strong><br />
Old English “wider” and <strong>the</strong> German<br />
“widerrest”. These words were used to describe<br />
<strong>the</strong> area <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> animal that “would<br />
oppose <strong>the</strong> load”. The load typically being<br />
created by a harness on <strong>the</strong> animal’s<br />
chest, wi<strong>the</strong>rs, and back that was attached<br />
to a wagon or plow. The wi<strong>the</strong>rs were <strong>the</strong><br />
highest and widest point <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> back <strong>of</strong><br />
various draft-type working animals, such<br />
as oxen, dogs, and horses.<br />
The wi<strong>the</strong>rs are covered by skin and hair and<br />
are a critical structural point with many<br />
muscles and ligaments attached. The<br />
wi<strong>the</strong>rs are dorsal (uppermost) spinal<br />
processes (a natural outgrowth on a bone)<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> thoracic vertebrae section <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> spine<br />
<strong>of</strong> an equine. There are 18 thoracic vertebrae<br />
with T4 through T9 comprising <strong>the</strong> wi<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
Typically, T5 is <strong>the</strong> highest point <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
wi<strong>the</strong>rs and is used when measuring an<br />
equine’s height. (See photo illustration.)<br />
Read Part 2 <strong>of</strong> Disguised as Simplicity,<br />
The Equine Hand in <strong>the</strong> next issue <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>NEDA</strong>’s A <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong> publication.<br />
With a sizable cache <strong>of</strong> antique and<br />
modern books on <strong>the</strong> equine, <strong>the</strong> writer is<br />
frequently discovering matters <strong>of</strong> curiosity<br />
to share with <strong>the</strong> equine enthusiast. While<br />
preparing a short piece about <strong>the</strong> equine<br />
hand, she found its past and present to be<br />
complex and storied, but <strong>the</strong> information is<br />
quite scattered with no single definitive<br />
work. This series aspires to condense <strong>the</strong><br />
research to preserve some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> equine<br />
hand’s history and purpose. She can be<br />
reached at cronanba@gmail.com.<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 13
14 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
MEMBER NEWS<br />
BY KELLY CASELLA<br />
I<br />
must be honest - I joined<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> for <strong>the</strong> webinars. Not that<br />
I wasn’t aware <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> opportunities<br />
for learning, scholarships,<br />
and shows that <strong>the</strong> organization<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers, I simply felt that I wasn’t qualified.<br />
I’m new to <strong>the</strong> sport, or as I’m discovering,<br />
<strong>the</strong> obsession <strong>of</strong> Dressage. For <strong>the</strong><br />
past 13 years or so my chosen discipline<br />
has been carriage driving. My horse<br />
Carisma is a 17-year-old Sachsen-<br />
Thüringen Schweres Warmblut gelding, a<br />
breed <strong>of</strong> Warmblood bred in Germany<br />
almost exclusively for driving. Being a<br />
“Schweres” or heavy warmblood, he is more<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> old type with substantial bone. A powerful,<br />
efficient trot and even temperament<br />
are his strong suits, as well as his talent to<br />
flap his lips when requiring human attention.<br />
We competed in Pleasure Driving Shows<br />
as a single, pair, and tandem (one horse in<br />
front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r), and Combined Driving<br />
Events, or CDE’s. CDE’s are typically 3 days<br />
long, and are similar to <strong>the</strong> Three-Day<br />
Eventing format, with a driven Dressage test<br />
on <strong>the</strong> first day, a cross-country marathon<br />
with obstacles on <strong>the</strong> second, and timed<br />
cones course on <strong>the</strong> third. Our team had <strong>the</strong><br />
most success in <strong>the</strong> Dressage phase, since<br />
Carisma has excellent rhythm and I, being a<br />
visual thinker, could drive a very round<br />
circle! We earned great scores, but I felt that<br />
we could achieve more, especially in <strong>the</strong><br />
area <strong>of</strong> self-carriage.<br />
To focus on this, I realized I had to try<br />
something different. Dressage appeared to<br />
be <strong>the</strong> logical solution. Through Facebook, I<br />
From Carriage<br />
Driving<br />
oT O<br />
Ridden Dressage<br />
found that my current trainer, Ericka Cecere,<br />
was hosting a clinic with Jan Ebeling. Why<br />
not take advantage <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> opportunity to<br />
audit a clinic with an Olympic Dressage<br />
rider, staged literally 4 minutes from my<br />
home. As riders, or drivers, we tend to stay<br />
in <strong>the</strong> circle created by our discipline, and<br />
not venture out to learn different viewpoints.<br />
I was slightly intimidated by <strong>the</strong> stereotypes<br />
that exist about “Dressage” but figured <strong>the</strong><br />
experience was worth breaking out <strong>of</strong> my<br />
comfort zone.<br />
Dressage seemed to be so e<strong>the</strong>real and<br />
unreachable-a discipline only suited for <strong>the</strong><br />
naturally gifted horse and rider who has<br />
spent years studying with a master. Due to<br />
<strong>the</strong> fact that I started riding in college, and<br />
not as a small child, I already felt “late to <strong>the</strong><br />
party.” I believed I would never be able to<br />
catch up and become pr<strong>of</strong>icient, especially<br />
with a mature driving horse.<br />
What I found at <strong>the</strong> clinic was a diverse<br />
group <strong>of</strong> riders <strong>of</strong> all ages and levels with<br />
horses <strong>of</strong> all shapes, sizes, and breeds. No,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y weren’t all Charlotte Dujardins riding<br />
Valegros. Jan was patient and attentive, <strong>of</strong>fering<br />
correction and praise to each rider<br />
and horse combination. My type “A” brain<br />
thought, “this could be fun.” I began lessons<br />
with Erica in <strong>May</strong> <strong>of</strong> 2020. Fortunately, my<br />
husband Raymond and I keep our horses at<br />
home, and I was able to train throughout <strong>the</strong><br />
COVID lockdown.<br />
It’s hard. It’s physically demanding for<br />
both <strong>of</strong> us. Asking a horse that is used to<br />
traveling forward between shafts and<br />
pushing into a collar with his shoulders to<br />
d<br />
move weight, to now cross his legs over and<br />
go sideways just did not compute in his<br />
brain. Moving his shoulders without falling<br />
in or blowing through my half-halt was<br />
foreign. I needed to be thoroughly accountable<br />
for my own balance and position<br />
at all times, to a much higher degree than in<br />
driving. The tack and bitting are different.<br />
Oh, and <strong>the</strong> circles are a lot smaller…<br />
Since a driver only has her reins, whip,<br />
and voice, (and to some extent body) to influence<br />
<strong>the</strong> horse, <strong>the</strong> driving horse must be<br />
reliable, attentive, and above all, safe. They<br />
must not overreact to noise, machinery,<br />
people on bicycles, flapping harness pieces,<br />
etc. Carisma is pretty bombpro<strong>of</strong>. For riding,<br />
he needed to become more responsive and<br />
quicker, with a rider on his back and in an<br />
open bridle without blinders. We both<br />
learned leg aids and different rein aids than<br />
he was accustomed to. Above all, we both<br />
learned <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seat. This<br />
is quite a bit to ask.<br />
I quit many times in my head. Told<br />
Raymond that we should sell everything.<br />
He, as always, reminded me that we don’t<br />
give up, and give it ano<strong>the</strong>r try. Our lessons<br />
kept refining communication with my horse,<br />
and discussions <strong>of</strong>fered insight on how to<br />
execute cues more clearly. Working as a<br />
team with my horse, I am able to overcome<br />
resistance and learn a new language. No, it<br />
does not work every time. Some days are<br />
better than o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
Again, <strong>the</strong> internet interceded. I saw <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>NEDA</strong>’s announcement about educational<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 15
FROM CARRIAGE - cont’d<br />
Zoom meetings, available to its members. I<br />
don’t have <strong>the</strong> advantage <strong>of</strong> years <strong>of</strong> instruction<br />
and experience with many horses,<br />
but I’ve found that outside sources, such as<br />
this program can fill in some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> gaps. As<br />
we all know, <strong>the</strong> internet is full <strong>of</strong> armchair<br />
experts, but this venue <strong>of</strong>fered esteemed<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essionals sharing <strong>the</strong>ir knowledge, at no<br />
cost, online. Where else would a turnout<br />
perfectionist like me be able to take an hourlong<br />
deep dive into <strong>the</strong> variations <strong>of</strong><br />
Dressage braiding? The weekly Thursday<br />
webinars helped get me through <strong>the</strong> difficult<br />
training days by reminding me o<strong>the</strong>rs were<br />
also struggling with issues. For example, our<br />
current struggle is finding a bit to keep his<br />
large tongue comfortable.<br />
I continue to immerse myself in <strong>the</strong> study<br />
<strong>of</strong> Dressage, both in and out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> saddle.<br />
Due to <strong>the</strong> somewhat mild wea<strong>the</strong>r, we<br />
worked pretty consistently throughout <strong>the</strong><br />
winter. Snow is great for hind end engagement!<br />
I love <strong>the</strong> fact that <strong>the</strong>re is so<br />
much information readily available about all<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> different perspectives one can have in<br />
Dressage. My topics <strong>of</strong> interest are training<br />
methods, <strong>the</strong>ory, and exercises. I find<br />
learning about <strong>the</strong> science <strong>of</strong> biomechanics<br />
and how it relates to <strong>the</strong> movement <strong>of</strong> both<br />
horse and rider helps me achieve balance.<br />
This leads to improving <strong>the</strong> all-important and<br />
elusive “feel” needed to communicate effectively<br />
with my horse.<br />
Out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> saddle, I enjoy window<br />
shopping for show clo<strong>the</strong>s, maybe with a bit<br />
<strong>of</strong> bling, with an eye toward <strong>the</strong> fact that we<br />
may become consistent enough this season<br />
to enter at “A”. Stay tuned! I look forward<br />
to exploring all that <strong>NEDA</strong> has to <strong>of</strong>fer, including<br />
<strong>the</strong> annual Symposium.<br />
I feel fortunate to have met new friends<br />
that have been so willing to join in and<br />
support me on my journey in <strong>the</strong> neverending<br />
discipline and art <strong>of</strong> Dressage. I still<br />
quit, but only about once a month now!<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> EDUCATIONAL<br />
SCHOLARSHIPS<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> members please take note -<br />
Scholarships are currently available<br />
for qualified applicants...<br />
that could be you!<br />
The next deadline for scholarship<br />
applications is Oct 1st!<br />
To receive an application or an<br />
informational brochure about <strong>the</strong><br />
Scholarship Program. Go to:<br />
http://www.neda.org/?page=SCHMAIN<br />
Andris J. Kaneps<br />
DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR<br />
978-273-5479 cell<br />
978-927-6404 <strong>of</strong>fice and fax<br />
68 Grover Street<br />
Beverly, MA 01915<br />
www.kanepsequine.com<br />
ajkaneps@kanepsequine.com<br />
!<br />
"#$%&'(&")!%'*$!+,*!-,.*!/,*"$!!<br />
01!2345!<br />
!<br />
!"#$%&'($)*+*(%,*-,./$0($1,#-%,.2"$).,<br />
3(%*'*-(4$(5#6*7*)#)*"-,<br />
!<br />
8#3(-(..,(9#7/#)*"-:,2$(2/$'5#.(:,<br />
.5"';@=:,<br />
%*0*)#7,*3#0*-0:,0#.)$".'"21,<br />
!<br />
!<br />
Amy Bresky<br />
Scholarship Chairman<br />
3403 Youngs Rd., Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Pines, NC 28387<br />
Phone: (978) 270-3880<br />
E-mail: scholarships@neda.org<br />
Don’t Miss <strong>the</strong> Deadline!<br />
Advertise and<br />
support <strong>NEDA</strong> too!<br />
BIZ CARD AS LOW<br />
AS $50 FOR MEMBERS!<br />
Email: tipads@neda.org<br />
16 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
GENERAL INTEREST<br />
Morsels<br />
Equine Information<br />
BY BETH ANN CRONAN<br />
If your test comments for your 20-meter<br />
circle are “not round,” try to improve by deconstructing<br />
<strong>the</strong> 20-meter circle into points<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> circle using <strong>the</strong> centerline, <strong>the</strong> quarter<br />
line, knowledge <strong>of</strong> arena letter placement,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> arena size. Once <strong>the</strong> 20-meter<br />
circle is comprised <strong>of</strong> “points”, you can<br />
ride a 20-meter circle flowing from one<br />
point at ano<strong>the</strong>r, connecting <strong>the</strong>m into a<br />
round circle. Do not rely on dressage arena<br />
letters to make your circle because <strong>the</strong><br />
letters do NOT always match <strong>the</strong> points <strong>of</strong> a<br />
20-meter circle! Both <strong>the</strong> small (20 x 40) and<br />
large (20 X 60) dressage areas are 20<br />
Right: Clydesdale<br />
gelding displaying<br />
perfectly groomed<br />
prolific fea<strong>the</strong>ring;<br />
note <strong>the</strong> fea<strong>the</strong>ring<br />
is from <strong>the</strong> knee<br />
down and covering<br />
<strong>the</strong> front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
ho<strong>of</strong>. Horse and<br />
handler are part<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hallamore<br />
Clydesdales<br />
Team with <strong>NEDA</strong><br />
Photographer<br />
Carole MacDonald.<br />
Photo courtesy <strong>of</strong><br />
Carole MacDonald<br />
from her collection.<br />
OF<br />
meters wide but <strong>the</strong>re are differences in<br />
length. A 20-meter circle starting at C will<br />
have X (on <strong>the</strong> centerline) as a circle point<br />
in a small arena. In a 60-meter-long large<br />
arena, a 20-meter circle at C has <strong>the</strong> circle<br />
point 2 meters beyond I on <strong>the</strong> centerline. If<br />
you use I as a circle point, your circle is 18<br />
meters, not 20. Also, in addition to 20-meter<br />
circles starting at C or A, tests can ask for a<br />
20-meter circle at o<strong>the</strong>r letters such as B, E,<br />
and X so it is important to be aware <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
circle points <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se 20-meter circles as well<br />
and not to rely on <strong>the</strong> arena letters. When<br />
riding a 20-meter circle, use circle point<br />
landmarks to increase <strong>the</strong> roundness <strong>of</strong> your<br />
circle, increase your movement score, and<br />
eliminate <strong>the</strong> “not round” comments.<br />
An equine can be fea<strong>the</strong>red, can have fea<strong>the</strong>ring,<br />
and can even be well fea<strong>the</strong>red but<br />
never has “fea<strong>the</strong>rs”. The origin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> word<br />
fea<strong>the</strong>r is 15th Century Old English, and one<br />
definition is “to adorn”. When referring to<br />
equines, fea<strong>the</strong>r is an adjective, so <strong>the</strong> word<br />
is not made plural. For example, you would<br />
say that you ride a brown horse not a<br />
browns horse. "Fea<strong>the</strong>rs" is <strong>the</strong> plural <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
noun "fea<strong>the</strong>r". Christine Bartko <strong>of</strong> Black<br />
The photo is <strong>of</strong> Raspotnik Silas, a Dales<br />
Pony gelding ridden by <strong>NEDA</strong> member<br />
Leah Drew. While all four legs have<br />
fea<strong>the</strong>ring, <strong>the</strong> flowing hair <strong>of</strong> his left<br />
front leg displays an outstanding example<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> long, silky nature <strong>of</strong> equine<br />
fea<strong>the</strong>ring. Maintaining such fea<strong>the</strong>ring<br />
demands a great measure <strong>of</strong> attention<br />
and meticulous, diligent grooming that<br />
goes far beyond “normal” currying.<br />
Drew said, “To keep his fea<strong>the</strong>rs clean,<br />
I normally brush and detangle <strong>the</strong>m<br />
every day. And I hose <strong>the</strong>m <strong>of</strong>f after<br />
every ride because <strong>the</strong>y get so gross<br />
and sweaty. Before a show I shampoo<br />
and condition <strong>the</strong>m with Mane ‘n Tail<br />
products and have even gone as far as<br />
braiding <strong>the</strong>m to keep <strong>the</strong>m clean for<br />
<strong>the</strong> shows.”<br />
Drew applied her conscientiousness<br />
not just to grooming but to competing<br />
as well. In this photo taken at a <strong>NEDA</strong><br />
competition, Drew is 9 years old and<br />
riding a Training Level Test. Drew continues<br />
to be an active <strong>NEDA</strong> member<br />
and is planning on showing her<br />
Hanoverian mare, Harmonious P, in<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>2021</strong> FEI Junior Division.<br />
Photo: Carole MacDonald from her<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> competition photograph<br />
archives.<br />
Continued →<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 17
MORSELS- cont’d<br />
Forest Shires and Gypsy Horse breeding<br />
farm wrote that breeders <strong>of</strong> fea<strong>the</strong>red<br />
equines will "know you are a newbie if you<br />
say a horse has fea<strong>the</strong>rs." A fea<strong>the</strong>red<br />
equine has long hairs on <strong>the</strong> lower leg<br />
that typically start at <strong>the</strong> cannon bone<br />
below <strong>the</strong> knee. This "adornment" is found<br />
in both horse and pony breeds and while<br />
common in draft-type equines it is not restricted<br />
to <strong>the</strong>m. Fea<strong>the</strong>ring is frequently<br />
found in cold-wea<strong>the</strong>r breeds, such as <strong>the</strong><br />
Friesian from <strong>the</strong> Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands, <strong>the</strong> Fell Pony<br />
from England, and <strong>the</strong> Ardennes <strong>of</strong> France.<br />
These long hairs are thought to maintain as<br />
much heat as possible in <strong>the</strong>ir lower leg and<br />
hooves. Some breed standards, such as <strong>the</strong><br />
Gypsy Horse, state that <strong>the</strong> fea<strong>the</strong>r must go<br />
completely around <strong>the</strong> ho<strong>of</strong> and that long<br />
hair must grow in front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ho<strong>of</strong> for <strong>the</strong><br />
horse to be declared fea<strong>the</strong>red. Due to<br />
fea<strong>the</strong>ring having a genetic component,<br />
some stud books require stallions and<br />
mares have breed standard sufficient fea<strong>the</strong>ring<br />
to be approved for breeding. Though<br />
<strong>the</strong>se long hairs appear coarse, <strong>the</strong>y are<br />
surprisingly s<strong>of</strong>t and silky but require diligent<br />
grooming maintenance. (See Sidebar and<br />
photos previous page.)<br />
Cleaning your horse’s hind hooves can be<br />
intimidating if no one has ever taught you<br />
how to do it correctly and safely. I work with<br />
many young draft horses and was consulted<br />
by a man that had “issues” with his 3-yearold,<br />
16.3 hand, 1400-pound Brabant colt.<br />
The colt would lose his balance and yank his<br />
leg away when <strong>the</strong> man tried to clean a hind<br />
ho<strong>of</strong>. The issue had made farrier work<br />
almost impossible. Knowing that <strong>the</strong> veterinarian<br />
had cleared <strong>the</strong> colt <strong>of</strong> having any<br />
physical issues to cause this behavior, I<br />
18 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong><br />
watched <strong>the</strong> man clean one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> colt's hind<br />
hooves. I <strong>the</strong>orized <strong>the</strong> main problem: The<br />
man kept <strong>the</strong> colt's ho<strong>of</strong> just a few inches <strong>of</strong>f<br />
<strong>the</strong> ground when he cleaned it. He did this<br />
thinking it was “helping” <strong>the</strong> colt. But, with<br />
his ho<strong>of</strong> not quite “up” and not quite<br />
“down”, standing on three legs was difficult<br />
and anxiety producing for <strong>the</strong><br />
young draft horse. Having his ho<strong>of</strong> held<br />
so close to <strong>the</strong> ground made <strong>the</strong> colt<br />
both physically and mentally "need" to<br />
put it down. The colt could not balance and<br />
would yank his ho<strong>of</strong> free. Panicked, <strong>the</strong> colt<br />
would snap <strong>the</strong> crossties. By raising <strong>the</strong> ho<strong>of</strong><br />
higher, <strong>the</strong> colt was able to activate his abdominal<br />
muscles and balance on his o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
three legs comfortably. Due to <strong>the</strong> months <strong>of</strong><br />
incorrect handling, an entire package <strong>of</strong> unwanted<br />
behaviors was created. Simply<br />
picking <strong>the</strong> hind ho<strong>of</strong> higher to clean it would<br />
need to be accompanied by correct ho<strong>of</strong><br />
cleaning procedure and positive reinforcement<br />
to reduce <strong>the</strong> anxiety-driven behavior<br />
<strong>of</strong> kicking out and breaking <strong>the</strong><br />
crossties. These behaviors would have to be<br />
“untrained” and <strong>the</strong> colt’s confidence in<br />
having his hooves handled improved. For<br />
safety reasons, <strong>the</strong>se issues were best addressed<br />
by a pr<strong>of</strong>essional horse trainer.<br />
If you are having issues with cleaning your<br />
horse’s hind hooves, consult with a veterinarian<br />
for a physical evaluation first to<br />
rule out any physical issues such as a<br />
sore stifle joint. Then, consult a trusted<br />
trainer for safe handling techniques to improve<br />
how you clean your horse’s hooves.<br />
Not only will your horse appreciate your improved<br />
horsemanship, but so will your<br />
farrier. Hint: Treating a hind ho<strong>of</strong> abscess is<br />
not <strong>the</strong> best time to train your horse to stand<br />
quietly on three legs.<br />
Some dogs are sensitive to <strong>the</strong> commonly<br />
used equine antiparasitic (wormer) ivermectin<br />
and can have a negative reaction<br />
after ingesting it. An equine will shed some<br />
ivermectin in its manure for several days<br />
after being wormed with it. If you dog likes<br />
to snack on road apples, you should restrict<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir access to any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wormed equines’<br />
manure for a least three days or however<br />
long your veterinarian suggests.<br />
"She's precocious; And she knows just how<br />
to make a pro blush". You probably read that<br />
and said, “She’s got Betty Davis eyes”. O<strong>the</strong>r<br />
than in Kim Carnes’ song, it is doubtful that<br />
you have heard “precocious” used to describe<br />
anything unless you follow thoroughbred<br />
horse racing. The Oxford<br />
Dictionary defines precocious as “having developed<br />
certain abilities or proclivities at an<br />
earlier age than usual" and its synonyms are<br />
gifted, talented, and smart. Precocious is a<br />
term used to describe a young
MORSELS- cont’d<br />
thoroughbred racehorse that is beginning<br />
training and is displaying unusually<br />
advanced racing abilities.<br />
Kentucky’s Calumet Farms trainer Gene<br />
Recio described a filly in <strong>the</strong> <strong>2021</strong> Ocala<br />
Breeders' Sales March 2-Year-Olds in<br />
Training Sale listing as "...she is precocious.<br />
She has one thing on her mind and that's<br />
running."<br />
There is an Afghan proverb, “It’s <strong>the</strong><br />
same donkey, just a new saddle”. While<br />
this is true, a new saddle, especially one that<br />
correctly fits <strong>the</strong> horse, can make an<br />
enormous positive change in an equine’s<br />
performance. The advancements in <strong>the</strong><br />
study <strong>of</strong> equine biomechanics and saddle<br />
making have radically changed how <strong>the</strong><br />
saddle tree, gullets, and o<strong>the</strong>r saddle components<br />
are designed. A properly fitting<br />
saddle will lessen pain and stiffness and encourage<br />
your horse to display less compensatory<br />
issues such as hollowing <strong>the</strong> back,<br />
carrying its “nose in <strong>the</strong> air”, or refusal to pick<br />
up a certain lead. After your horse has a<br />
veterinarian’s physical examination to<br />
rule out non-saddle created issues, an<br />
appointment with a reputable saddle<br />
fitter is a great investment in your riding.<br />
While perusing <strong>the</strong> horse section at a local<br />
Barnes and Noble bookstore, <strong>the</strong>re it was,<br />
“Horseback Riding for Dummies”. Intrigued,<br />
I flipped <strong>the</strong> book open and incredulously,<br />
<strong>the</strong> section was “The Halt”. You may be familiar<br />
with <strong>the</strong> article “The Halt, Salute”<br />
written by me and published in <strong>the</strong> <strong>May</strong><br />
2020 <strong>NEDA</strong> <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong>. The “Horseback<br />
Riding for Dummies” authors directed hunt<br />
seat and Western riders to “brace <strong>the</strong>ir legs,<br />
sit on <strong>the</strong>ir tail bone, pull back on <strong>the</strong> reins,<br />
and say whoa loudly” to halt. The instructions<br />
for dressage were identical except<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is not a verbal whoa. While studying<br />
<strong>the</strong> written works <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> masters is universally<br />
suggested to compliment your actual<br />
riding, I was disheartened and cannot recommend<br />
this book to improve your<br />
horseback riding skills. To find quality<br />
reading about dressage, Google your favorite<br />
rider and read <strong>the</strong> works <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
classical dressage masters that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
follow.<br />
With a sizable cache <strong>of</strong> antique and modern<br />
books on <strong>the</strong> equine, <strong>the</strong> writer is frequently<br />
discovering matters <strong>of</strong> curiosity to share with<br />
<strong>the</strong> equine enthusiast. She can be reached<br />
at cronanba@gmail.com.<br />
Help us keep The <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong> financially viable<br />
in print by advertising in it!<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 19
SCHOLARSHIP NEWS<br />
Dear <strong>NEDA</strong> Scholarship Committee Members,<br />
I am taking this opportunity to tell you how grateful I am for<br />
your vote <strong>of</strong> confidence in awarding me <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> Scholarship<br />
for 2020 as well as <strong>the</strong> First Priscilla Endicott Award to help<br />
me get to <strong>the</strong> UK to train and compete in England and Europe.<br />
I am thrilled to have a fantastic young horse in “As You<br />
Wish”- he’s 8 years old and has been very successful in <strong>the</strong><br />
Small Tour in <strong>the</strong> past year, starting in CDI’s this spring at Global<br />
in Wellington. I am eagerly looking forward to traveling to England to<br />
train with Carl Hester to help develop him to his top potential. I have known<br />
Carl for many years (since I was a working student in Holland), and have been lucky enough to have<br />
trained with him since 2011, when I went to his yard to train with Ayscha for 6 months. You probably have<br />
seen him at work and I can attest to his skill and empathyas a trainer <strong>of</strong> both top horses and riders.<br />
Years ago (1999) I was still a newbie in New England, and I was lucky enough to meet Priscilla<br />
Endicott in Harvard, MA. She was a force <strong>of</strong> good in <strong>the</strong> dressage world, and she helped me get to Europe<br />
with my very first international horse Korona. What a learning curve that was, and I could not have done it<br />
without her. Because <strong>of</strong> her generosity I was able to be competitive at <strong>the</strong> Pan Am Games, WEG and <strong>the</strong><br />
World Cup. I am sure I don’t know half <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wonderful things Priscilla has done in her life to promote good<br />
dressage training and learning, but I do know she made a huge difference in my life just by believing in me<br />
and my horse.<br />
As we all know <strong>the</strong> world <strong>of</strong> top dressage is incredibly competitive and expensive. I am pro<strong>of</strong> that<br />
someone can compete at <strong>the</strong> top echelons <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sport with hard work, talent - and support from o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
The finances are very di cult, and I could not do this without your support, nor could I have embarked on<br />
my travels years ago without <strong>the</strong> backing <strong>of</strong> staunch supporters like Priscilla Endicott.<br />
I am so thankful for your vote <strong>of</strong> confidence. I am very excited to see <strong>the</strong> future <strong>of</strong> training with<br />
“Westley” (those <strong>of</strong> you who are fans <strong>of</strong> The Princess Bride will understand his name). I promise to bring<br />
you back some wonderful training tidbits and help from <strong>the</strong> Carl. The Scholarship program from <strong>NEDA</strong> is<br />
a fantastic opportunity and having <strong>the</strong> new Priscilla Endicott Award is a wonderful addition.<br />
Thank you all again,<br />
Shannon Dueck<br />
Shannon Dueck & As You Wish.<br />
Photo: Carmen Eliza Franco<br />
20 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
EDUCATION<br />
CONGRATULATIONS!<br />
Daniela Valentgas was <strong>the</strong> winner <strong>of</strong> two <strong>NEDA</strong> Fall<br />
Symposium tickets, which she entered by answering our<br />
year-end membership survey back in December.<br />
Daniela is pictured here with Haralambos (“Harry”) a<br />
German bred 12-year-old Trakehner gelding (Krokant &<br />
Caprimond) she imported in 2018. They are riding with<br />
Vincent Flores Dressage in Coventry CT, with goals <strong>of</strong><br />
PSG this season for Daniela’s silver medal.<br />
If you see <strong>the</strong>m out and about, be sure to say hi!”<br />
Thank you to everyone who took <strong>the</strong> time to help us out<br />
with <strong>the</strong> survey!<br />
Daniela Valentgas. Photo: Salty Dog Productions<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 21
<strong>2021</strong> Competitions<br />
& Event Calendar<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> CALENDAR <strong>2021</strong><br />
(Please keep checking <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> online calendar for latest COVID-19 updates)<br />
Website<br />
Show<br />
Date(s)<br />
n Dressage4Kids www.dressage4kids.org 5/8-9 East Greenwich RI Heritage Equestrian Center<br />
Team Clinic<br />
n Merrimack Valley www.bradfordequestriancenter.com 5/9 Haverhill MA<br />
Schooling Show<br />
n Cutter Farm www.cutterfarm.com 5/16 Dracut MA Kristin Wesson 603-440-3564<br />
Schooling Show<br />
kristinwesson@gmail.com<br />
Connecticut Equestrian www.on<strong>the</strong>bitevents.com 5/16 4/11 5/4 Coventry CT Liz Johnson 774-217-0302<br />
Center I<br />
liz@on<strong>the</strong>bitevents.com<br />
n Xeonophon Farm Schooling Show 5/16 5/12 Montague MA Suzanne Mente<br />
xenophonshows@gmail.com<br />
Centerline Events @ HITS www.centerlineevents.com 5/22-23 4/12 5/5 Saugerties NY Debra Reinhardt 203-264-2148<br />
debra@centerlineevents.com<br />
n Lloyd Harbor Equestrian www.landlequestrian.com 5/22 Lloyd Harbor NY<br />
Center Schooling Show<br />
ENYDCTA Dressage Days I www.enydcta.com 5/28 4/1 5/10 Glenville NY Sue McKeown 978-430-9254<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
ENYDCTA Dressage Days II www.enydcta.com 5/29-30 4/1 5/10 Glenville NY Sue McKeown 978-430-9254<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
ESDCTA Memorial Weekend www.esdcta.org 5/29 4/1 5/15 Allentown NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
Dressage & Breed Show I<br />
spg588@hotmail.com<br />
Beland Stables www.belandstables.com 5/30 4/12 5/17 Lakeville MA PJ Archambault 508-428-1526<br />
Spring Dressage<br />
secretary@belandstables.com<br />
ESDCTA Memorial Weekend www.esdcta.org 5/30 4/01 5/15 Allentown NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
Dressage & Breed Show II<br />
spg588@hotmail.com<br />
n <strong>NEDA</strong> Spring Dressage I www.neda.org 6/5 4/12 5/14 Halifax MA Debra Reinhardt 203-264-2148<br />
debra@centerlineevents.com<br />
n <strong>NEDA</strong> Spring Dressage II www.neda.org 6/6 4/12 5/14 Halifax MA Debra Reinhardt 203-264-2148<br />
debra@centerlineevents.com<br />
n NHDEA Schooling Show www.nhdea.org 6/6 Atkinson NH<br />
Mystic Valley Hunt www.mysticvalleyhuntclub.com 6/11-13 4/19 5/26 Gales Ferry CT Sue McKeown 978-430-9209<br />
Club Spring<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
Windy Holly Hunt Dressage I www.windyhollowhunt.org 06/11-12 4/10 6/01 Augusta NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
sgp588@hotmail.com<br />
n Beland Stables www.belandstables.com 6/13 6/06 Lakeville MA<br />
Schooling Show<br />
n Independence Stable www.independencestablellc.com 6/13 Belchertown MA<br />
Schooling Show<br />
Windy Holly Hunt Dressage II www.windyhollowhunt.org 6/13 4/10 6/01 Augusta NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
sgp588@hotmail.com<br />
GMHA June Dressage Day www.gmhainc.org 6/18 4/19 5/28 Woodstock VT Sue McKeown 978-430-9209<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
Centerline Events @ HITS www.centerlineevents.com 6/19-20 5/20 6/07 Saugerties NY Debra Reinhardt 203-264-2148<br />
debra@centerlineevents.com<br />
GMHA June Dressage Show www.gmhainc.org 6/19-2 4/19 5/28 Woodstock VT Sue McKeown 978-430-9209<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
Opening<br />
Date<br />
Closing<br />
Date Location Secretary/Phone/Email<br />
n Schooling Shows<br />
n <strong>NEDA</strong> Events<br />
Email shows@neda.org<br />
for more info!<br />
Check www.neda.org for updates!<br />
n Partners in Education<br />
Email edpartners1@neda.org<br />
for more info!<br />
22 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
<strong>2021</strong> Competitions<br />
& Event Calendar<br />
Website<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> CALENDAR <strong>2021</strong>- cont’d<br />
Show<br />
Date(s)<br />
Opening<br />
Date<br />
Closing<br />
Date Location Secretary/Phone/Email<br />
n Cutter Farm www.cutterfarm.com 6/20 Dracut MA Kristin Wesson 603-440-3564<br />
Schooling Show<br />
kristinwesson@gmail.com<br />
n Xeonophon Farm Schooling Show 6/20 6/16 Montague MA Suzanne Mente<br />
xenophonshows@gmail.com<br />
n Fox Ledge Farm www.foxledgefarm.net 6/23 E. Haddam CT<br />
Schooling Show<br />
Mount Holyoke www.mhcriding.com 6/23-24 5/18 6/12 South Hadley MA Sue McKeown 978-430-9209<br />
College Dressage<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
Dressage at Stockade www.stockadepolo.com 6/25 5/10 6/12 Glenville NY Anita Jaffe 518-796-8899<br />
Welcome<br />
stockadepolo@gmail.com<br />
Westbrook Hunt Club www.horseshow<strong>of</strong>fice.com 6/26-27 5/15 6/05 Westbrook CT Sue McKeown 978-430-9209<br />
June Dressage<br />
suemckeown@charter.net<br />
Dressage at Stockade June www.stockadepolo.com 6/26-27 5/10 6/12 Glenville NY Anita Jaffe 518-796-8899<br />
stockadepolo@gmail.com<br />
n Merrimack Valley www.bradfordequestriancenter.com 6/27 Haverhill MA<br />
Schooling Show<br />
n Heritage Dressage www.heritage-dressage.org 6/27 Hanover MA<br />
Schooling Show<br />
ESDCTA Summer Days I www.esdcta.org 6/29 5/26 6/14 Gladstone NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
sgp588@hotmail.com<br />
ESDCTA Summer Days II www.esdcta.org 6/30 5/26 6/14 Gladstone NJ Shannon Bossun 703-431-5663<br />
sgp588@hotmail.com<br />
REGION 8 NEWS<br />
What a<br />
change<br />
in a year!<br />
This time last year USEF/USDF shows<br />
were shut down until <strong>May</strong> 3rd and <strong>the</strong>n that<br />
was extended until June. AND even <strong>the</strong>n<br />
shows in our region really did not start until<br />
July making <strong>the</strong> show season very short. Of<br />
course major shows like NAYC were cancelled.<br />
However, <strong>2021</strong> looks like it will start<br />
on time and we will all be out <strong>the</strong>re…<br />
Congratulations to Cindi Rose Wylie and<br />
William McMullin for passing <strong>the</strong>ir FEI Instructor<br />
certification. Even though Bill has <strong>of</strong>ficially<br />
moved to Region 3 we will always feel<br />
he are part <strong>of</strong> Region 8.<br />
Our Jr/YR Regional Coordinator, Roberta<br />
Carleton, had scheduled JrYR Clinic with<br />
George Williams on April 10-11, <strong>2021</strong> at<br />
Weatogue Farm. Sadly, due to lack <strong>of</strong> entries,<br />
it had to be cancelled. We are disappointed<br />
as this is an opportunity for <strong>the</strong><br />
youth to take a lesson with <strong>the</strong> USEF Youth<br />
Coach. As you know NAYC will be held at<br />
Great Lakes Equestrian Festival, Traverse<br />
City, MI on August 11-16, <strong>2021</strong>, and Roberta<br />
is trying to organize fund raising early.<br />
The Executive Board will meet at <strong>the</strong> end<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> month for <strong>the</strong> spring meeting via<br />
several hours <strong>of</strong> zoom call. I will report in<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>May</strong> newsletter if <strong>the</strong>re is any news to<br />
be shared.<br />
IMPORTANT….Region 8 was to hold <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
spring meeting on <strong>May</strong> 4th via Zoom call. I<br />
need to move it to <strong>May</strong> 5th, Cinco de <strong>May</strong>o.<br />
There is an TD educational program that may<br />
take a few <strong>of</strong> us away on <strong>the</strong> 4th. Our topics<br />
will be news from USDF, Omnibus printed vs<br />
not, committee reports, and <strong>of</strong> course, discussion<br />
on COVID effects. I will send more<br />
information at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> month.<br />
See you on <strong>the</strong> Centerline…<br />
Debra Reinhardt<br />
Debra Reinhardt<br />
USDF Region 8 Director<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 23
YOUTH CORNER<br />
Hello and<br />
Happy Spring!<br />
The birds are chirping, <strong>the</strong> grass is growing, and horses<br />
are shedding into <strong>the</strong>ir summer coats. Even better, show<br />
season is just around <strong>the</strong> corner! Whe<strong>the</strong>r you are planning<br />
a couple trips to your local schooling show or a full season<br />
<strong>of</strong> qualifying for <strong>the</strong> Region 8 Championships, it is sure to<br />
be a fantastic summer.<br />
What’s your favorite show on <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> calendar?<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> mountains <strong>of</strong> GMHA calling your name, or<br />
do you prefer <strong>the</strong> buzzing atmosphere <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Saugerties<br />
showgrounds? Let us know by emailing youth@neda.org<br />
with your show season bucket list!<br />
This month’s Youth Corner is missing one big part: a rider<br />
interview! Have you been featured yet? If not, send us an<br />
email for a short list <strong>of</strong> questions! It’s a great way to introduce<br />
yourself to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r youth riders <strong>of</strong> our region.<br />
Everyone is welcome to be featured!<br />
Spotlight by Gianna Avery<br />
Luckily, my horse Spotlight generously <strong>of</strong>fered to be <strong>the</strong><br />
first ‘featured horse.’<br />
Are you a youth involved<br />
in <strong>NEDA</strong>?<br />
Are you a parent or coach<br />
<strong>of</strong> a young dressage rider?<br />
Contact us!<br />
Youth Coordinator: Bobbi Carleton<br />
bobbicarleton@aol.com<br />
or Youth Liaison: Sophia Chavonelle<br />
24 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
YOUTH CORNER<br />
?<br />
C H A T T I N G<br />
W Spotlight<br />
Who are you, and where are you from?<br />
My name is W Spotlight and I am originally from Germany.<br />
I moved to California when I was about six, and <strong>the</strong>n to New<br />
England shortly after that.<br />
Tell us about your background. How long have you been<br />
a riding horse and how did you get started in dressage?<br />
I was bred to be a dressage horse! My dad is <strong>the</strong> famous<br />
Sir Donnerhall and my mom is Floristin (named after her fa<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
Florestan). Ever since I was a young colt in Germany, I have been<br />
in training to become a dressage athlete.<br />
What do you love about dressage? What do you not like<br />
about dressage? My favorite part <strong>of</strong> dressage is when I get <strong>the</strong><br />
ring all to myself and I get to show <strong>of</strong>f my moves to my adoring<br />
fans. Especially when I get to do my signature moves, like <strong>the</strong> extended<br />
canter! My least favorite is when my rider learns something<br />
new, which means I have to do something new (like actually going<br />
sideways or actually sitting in collection. Boring, hard stuff!)<br />
If you were to compete in any o<strong>the</strong>r discipline, what would<br />
it be? None. Jumping is dumb and obviously Western tack would<br />
not suit me. If I couldn’t do dressage anymore, I’d be a trail horse.<br />
Cantering along through trails (with no fallen logs in my path),<br />
adventuring all around <strong>the</strong> place. I would still need a place–like<br />
a long barn aisle or a great big field–to show <strong>of</strong>f my moves in,<br />
though!<br />
What have you taught your rider? I have taught her to be patient,<br />
to have a good sense <strong>of</strong> humor, and to never give up.<br />
What is your favorite event in <strong>the</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong> (USDF) Calendar?<br />
I do love going to <strong>NEDA</strong> Fall, as <strong>the</strong>re are lots <strong>of</strong> new horses to<br />
meet and plenty <strong>of</strong> good grass to eat. However, to show <strong>of</strong>f in <strong>the</strong><br />
Fall Symposium, with all <strong>of</strong> those people watching ME, would be a<br />
dream come true!<br />
Sophia and Spotlight<br />
Finish <strong>the</strong> sentences:<br />
1. My human in 3 words is… fun, nice, knows me best.<br />
2. My favorite treat is… a big, juicy apple.<br />
3. Dressage to me is… my workout routine, to keep my physique<br />
in top form.<br />
4. If I’m not in my stall I’m… out adventuring with my human.<br />
5. I couldn’t live without… my friends, my human, and a bottle <strong>of</strong><br />
triple antibiotic ointment.<br />
6. Something not many people know about me is… I still have<br />
one baby tooth! #younga<strong>the</strong>art<br />
Anything else you would like our readers to know?<br />
All fan mail and carrots can be forward to my human’s address,<br />
thank you in advance.<br />
Are you interested in being interviewed for <strong>the</strong> Youth Corner?<br />
Send us an email! youth@neda.org<br />
Advertise in The <strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong><br />
and support <strong>the</strong> most<br />
universally-used and<br />
highest-rated <strong>NEDA</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering!<br />
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 25
Stallion Paddock <strong>2021</strong><br />
26 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
<strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 27
STALLION PADDOCK - cont’d<br />
28 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
<strong>May</strong> <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG TIP OF THE HAT 29
STALLION PADDOCK - cont’d<br />
Are you under 25?<br />
The YOUTH CORNER<br />
is looking for<br />
amateur photos<br />
for <strong>the</strong> TIP!<br />
Email <strong>the</strong>m to:<br />
youth@neda.org<br />
Are you a youth rider<br />
interested in dressage and<br />
LOVE our new Youth Corner?<br />
Want to become<br />
one <strong>of</strong> our<br />
highlighted riders?<br />
Fiona Perreault. Photo: Jesse Klein<br />
Want to know<br />
what <strong>NEDA</strong> has put<br />
in place for you?<br />
Have ideas, comments<br />
or questions about<br />
Youth Corner?<br />
Email: youth@neda.org<br />
30 TIP OF THE HAT <strong>NEDA</strong>.ORG <strong>May</strong> <strong>2021</strong>
<strong>Tip</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hat</strong><br />
New England Dressage<br />
Association<br />
87 Henry Rd<br />
North Yarmouth, ME 04097<br />
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> is a Group Member Organization <strong>of</strong> USDF.<br />
Our members are automatically USDF Group members.<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> Hosts<br />
Region 8:<br />
<strong>NEDA</strong> is a USDF member and all<br />
GMO members are automatically<br />
USDF Group Members<br />
Breanna Rene Sporthorses<br />
Instruction - Training - Clinics<br />
Dressage - Working Equitation<br />
USDF Silver Medalist<br />
Ancram, NY<br />
(616) 403-8503<br />
www.breannarenesporthorses.com