Equine international 08

EQUINE I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Winter 2009 • Vol. 1 • Issue 5 www.alltech.com/EquineInternational

Jumping for Joy at

olympia

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EQUINEI N T E R N A T I O N A L

4: onward to olympia!Take a ride with us to Olympia, the London International Horse Show, which ushers in the holidays every December.

6 : With flying ColorsThe Kentucky Horse Park got accolades over October’s endurance and driving test events for the Alltech Games.

8: Sensory trainingThe award-winning Lexington, Kentucky Mounted Police are teaching civilian sporthorses to have nerves of steel.

10: young riders on the riseMeet the three young stars of “The Saddle Club,” the hit equestrian show on the Discovery Kids cable TV network.

12: Breyer model HorsesBreyer, the Official Model Horse of the Alltech Games, offers realistic toys, collectibles and home décor – even models of famous mounts.

13: Bluegrass SundownNeed something to warm your insides after a cold winter’s ride? Delight in a glass of Bluegrass Sundown: a new hot coffee drink with a hint of bourbon.

14: Hygain HappeningsHygain-sponsored para-dressage rider Nicole Kullen of Australia recounts her road to clinching the 2009 Grade1b National Championship.

16: aC nutrition newsLearn why champion NRHA reiners like Sam Smith, Cody Sapergia, Andy Johnson and Brian Bell feed their horses Bluebonnet products.

17: masterfeeds treatMasterfeeds has launched “love bites,” the Official Treat of the Canadian Equestrian Team, to raise funds for Canadian riders to compete at Lexington.

18: ritchie at the pEaKRitchie Feed’s groundbreaking research has resulted in PEAK Equine Analytics, which has perfected the science of predicting feed digestibility in horses.

On the cover: Last year’s Shetland Pony Grand National at Olympia – the London International Horse Show. (Photograph © Kit Houghton)

To see our stories come alive,view our free digital edition at

www.alltech.com/EquineInternational

Publisher ............................Dr. Pearse LyonsG.A.M.E.S. Director ..............Kelly WelkerExecutive Editor ..................Darlene RickerSenior Graphic Designer ..... Chris Gayton

Rich Media Director ..........Kirk RobinsonWebsite Author ................Alan HenthorneWebsite Analyst ..........................David CarrPhotographer .......................Marc Manning

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EQUINE INTERNATIONAL is published bimonthly, with occasional special editions. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without express permission of Alltech.

EQUINE INTERNATIONALAlltech Global Headquarters3031 Catnip Hill PikeNicholasville, KY 40356 USATelephone: 859.885.9613Facsimile: 859. 885.6736Email: [email protected]

You will see this icon throughout the magazine.This indicates stories that contain video content

exclusively in our digital edition.

Olympia’s Holiday Magic

EQUINE INTERNATIONAL 3

Dr. Pearse LyonsPresident, Alltech

A lltech’s alliance with the international equestrian world has allowed us to meet many EQUINE INTERNATIONAL readers this year as we traveled the globe: from our hometown Kentucky Horse Park, site of the 2010

Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and of this year’s test events for the reining, vaulting, endurance and driving World Championships; to the magnificent CHIO at Aachen, Germany, site of the 2006 Games; and then to Great Britain for the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Alltech FEI European Championships. Now, as we bring 2009 to a close, we’re back in Britain for Olympia, the London International Horse Show, a Christmastime tradition in the U.K. where we hope to meet and chat with many more of you. No doubt, the questions posed to us there will include two that always seem to come, regardless of the venue: Why is Alltech sponsoring the 2010 Alltech Games? Why did Alltech start an equine magazine when economics have forced many publications to close down? Simply put, those decisions were no-brainers for us. The opportunity to become the first-ever title sponsor of the World Equestrian Games was just too great to pass up. So was our ability to bring to lovers of equestrian sports a unique magazine that showcases the Alltech Games and our Global Partners, while celebrating everything that is wonderful about horses and horsemanship. That same spirit prevails December 15 to 21 at Olympia, which is the oldest indoor horse show (and Christmas shopping extravaganza) in Europe, now in its 102nd year. We hope Kit Houghton’s delightful photograph from Olympia 2008 on the cover of this magazine will spur you to join us there, where you can witness a charming U.K. holiday tradition: the Shetland Pony Grand National. The event replicates the legendary race at Aintree, but for youngsters on their mini-mounts. What great fun! More glee is in store December 21st, when the winning entry in Alltech’s “Paint the Horse” contest for British schoolchildren is paraded on the show grounds as a life-size model horse. That evening, Olympia culminates in the Alltech Olympia Grand Prix, a glittering show jumping spectacle under the lights. What a wonderful way to end the year as we prepare to gallop into 2010 and the Alltech Games!

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Europe’s prelude to the alltech games as were the 2009 alltech fEi European Championships, olympia is a key step for international jumping and dressage competitors on the road to next year’s alltech games. our free digital edition (www.Equineinternational.com) offers a glimpse of the excitement olympia and lexington will offer.

“the World is Coming to Kentucky,” our exclusive video, was produced on location at the 2009 alltech European Championships. Enjoy this preview of the unique experience that will greet the world in September 2010.

PHOTOGRAPHS ©KIT HOUGHTON

Kentucky Horse Park Passes Endurance, Driving Test Events With Flying ColorsT wo more official test events for the Alltech Games were

held in October at the Kentucky Horse Park, bringing the total number of “Kentucky Cup” test events so far

to four. As did the summer’s spectacular test events for Reining and Vaulting in the new indoor arena, the fall test events for Endurance and Driving ran smoothly across the Park’s 1,200 acres and adjoining farmland. “Because the Horse Park is so heavily utilized, every day is a test event,” said John Nicholson, the Park’s Executive Director. “The four sanctioned test events were successful, and we learned something from each one. The biggest thing we learned, not surprisingly, is that we can do this.” The final test events for dressage, jumping and eventing will take place in April 2010 at the Rolex Kentucky Three-

Day Event.* * * *

Endurance: The United States dominated the Kentucky Cup Endurance FEI CEI***, sponsored by Emirates Equestrian Federation, which was the official Endurance Test Event for the 2010 Alltech Games. U.S. riders garnered all three team and individual medals in the October competition. Danielle McGunigal of Ft. Valley, Virginia, won the individual gold in the modified CEI*** in a ride time of 6:30:41 with an average speed of 18.43 kph. The race was originally an FEI qualifying event at a distance of 100 miles (160 km) but was shortened to 75 miles (120 km) after the footing became questionable due to heavy and persistent rain that began shortly before the race and continued throughout the day, making the trail slippery and muddy. The race was shortened from six loops to four. “I was disappointed by the race being shortened but happy to be finished,” said McGunigal, 1996 Endurance World Champion. “This was the toughest ride I have ever done. It was

like swimming uphill with a hole in your paddle.” McGunigal led

almost the entire way aboard Gold Raven, her 8-year-old Arabian mare. McGunigal’s mother,

two-time Endurance World Champion Valerie Kanavy, came

to the mandatory vet check ahead of her daughter, but was later

eliminated after her mare slipped on the second loop.

Ellyn Rapp of Dubuque, Iowa, won the silver medal in a ride time of 6:52:16 (17.46 kph) on her 14-year-old Arabian gelding, Berjo Smokey. “Smokey is amazing,” said Rapp. “He never quits. I

have had all my best rides on him.” Jan Worthington of Scales Mound, Illinois, won the bronze medal in a ride time of 7:01:33

(17.08 kph) aboard Golden Lightning.

The final test events for dressage, jumping and eventing will take place in April 2010 at the Rolex Kentucky Three-

Day Event.* * * *

trail slippery and muddy. The race was shortened from six loops to four. “I was disappointed by the race being shortened but happy to be finished,” said McGunigal, 1996 Endurance World Champion. “This was the toughest ride I have ever done. It was

like swimming uphill with a hole in your paddle.” McGunigal led

almost the entire way aboard Gold Raven, her 8-year-old Arabian mare. McGunigal’s mother,

two-time Endurance World Champion Valerie Kanavy, came

to the mandatory vet check ahead of her daughter, but was later

eliminated after her mare slipped on the second loop.

Ellyn Rapp of Dubuque, Iowa, won the silver medal in a ride time of 6:52:16 (17.46 kph) on her 14-year-old Arabian gelding, Berjo Smokey. “Smokey is amazing,” said Rapp. “He never quits. I

have had all my best rides on him.” Jan Worthington of Scales Mound, Illinois, won the bronze medal in a ride time of 7:01:33

(17.08 kph) aboard Golden Lightning.

galloping toWarD tHE alltECH gamES


EQUINE INTERNATIONAL 7EQUINE INTERNATIONAL 7PHOTOGRAPHS ©MARC MANNING

The 9-year-old Arabian gelding was awarded the prestigious Best Condition award, given to the horse judged the most fit to continue. Worthington was thrilled with his accomplishment. “It really took me by surprise,” said the 69-year-old rider of winning Best Condition. “I am blessed with a great horse. I think he did so well in the mud because he has small feet like a mule.” The individual medals were awarded first and the ceremony turned out to be quite moving. The music for the U.S. National Anthem could not be played, so the audience volunteered to sing it instead. Despite the weather, the event was considered a success and a good test for next year. Endurance Competition Manager Emmett Ross said it provided excellent learning opportunities and that the feedback was positive. “We were committed to making the trail wonderful. You never got to see the trail in its full glory because of the weather,” said Ross. “I’m saving some surprises for next year. We are looking forward to making this a very enjoyable trail next year – and it’s not going to rain!”

Driving: Chester Weber of Ocala, Florida, won a record seventh consecutive national title at the Kentucky Cup Driving Competition, the official Driving Test Event for the Alltech Games. Weber went into the Cones phase a mere 6.86 points ahead of the pack and maneuvered his team around the course with only a 2.30 time penalty, for a final score of 131.35 to take the title. “This course was up to international standards,” said Weber. “The time is always difficult at a championship, and I felt that this was good preparation for next year where we are going to have to fight to make the time.” Tucker Johnson of Hobe Sound, Florida, placed third and finished as Reserve Champion, in second place behind Weber as the second-highest placing US driver in the National Championship race. Johnson was within the time on the Cones course but bumped two cones and dislodged the balls on top for a penalty score of 6 and a final score of 141.40. “This was a good course,” said Johnson. “I was very pleased and thought it was a very appropriate course for the competition. For next year I plan to build a team from these horses and the team I have in Europe and prepare by competing in Windsor and Aachen. Now that we have gotten a taste of what the course can be, with the hazards and the hills, I plan on coming back with something that is ready to show.”

Boyd Exell of Australia spent the week chasing Weber and Johnson. After his spectacular Marathon phase, he was less than 7 points behind the leaders going into the last phase of competition. Exell drove his team tight and fast, covering most

of the track at the extended trot and crossed the timers with only a penalty of 3, for one ball dropped, for a total of 138.91 and second place. “The course was, just like

yesterday’s Marathon, very horse friendly” said Exell. “It was also nice to watch. But from my previous competition experience in Europe, this was the most horse friendly. This was a test event and I anticipate that next year it will go up to WEG standards.” Exell is already guaranteed a spot at the 2010 Alltech Games representing Australia. For Weber and Johnson, the Kentucky Cup and USEF National Championship titles are just two among a history of stiff competition among top American drivers. “Tucker made me work really hard for this all weekend, harder than in the past,” said Weber. “I remember watching his dressage and thinking maybe he has got me here. Cones have been my weakness in the past, but this was pretty fluid. I did use Jamaica at the left wheel today and frankly he gave me a bit of

grief. That’s what I get for trying to give an 18-year-old a break.”

“The four sanctioned Games test events were successful, and we learned something from each one. The biggest thing we learned, not surprisingly, is that we can do this.”

– John Nicholson, Executive Director, Kentucky Horse Park

A horse may have all the physical ingredients for stardom—power, presence, talent, agility, strength, athleticism—but never make it to the Alltech Games

because of one invisible but key element: nerves. Just as befalls some human competitors, equine athletes often fail simply because they cannot harness their nervous energy or control their fears. When a dozen pheasants suddenly rustle the underbrush and fly out en masse, an event horse has to keep his focus on the ditch coming up on cross-country. A show jumper loses precious seconds if he spooks from a banner slapping in a sudden gust of wind. Dressage horses score lower if they refuse to bend into the corner of the arena because a decorative flower box looks like a monster. Challenges like these, however, are a walk in the park to seasoned police horses trained to work in the everyday world of the city streets and parks. Twice a year, training officers with Kentucky’s award-winning Lexington Mounted Police share their skills with civilian riders from all equestrian disciplines who want to learn the inside track on turning their competition or pleasure mounts into braver steeds.

Those were among the challenges addressed by Sgt. Ellen Sam, unit supervisor, and training officers at the November 2009 session of Alltech’s Equine News & Brews, a monthly educational program offered free to the public at Alltech’s Lexington Brewing Company. Addressing 100 attendees, the officers used a lifesize model horse to illustrate techniques used by law enforcement to promote confidence and desensitize horses to noise, crowds and obstacles. Visitors to Lexington can observe (or participate in) these techniques at live mounted clinics held in the spring and fall, alternately at the Kentucky Horse Park and at Masterson Station Park. The fall clinic is conducted in conjunction with officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Toronto Police. Both clinics are sponsored by The Friends of the Lexington Mounted Police, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that helps support the efforts of the Lexington Mounted Police. For more information: www.LexingtonMountedPolice.org

SEnSory training CliniC

Lexington Mounted Police Helping Sporthorses Develop


Imagine your horse not flinching when:• A colorful banner is waved inches from his face• A large blue plastic tarp flaps and crinkles in the wind• He crosses a wooden teeter-totter that pitches under his weight• He has to push an enormous beach ball as high as his chest

Q: Do you consider yourself primarily an actor, a recording artist or an equestrian?

Lauren: I would consider myself primarily an actor because acting is what I’m most interested in at this point in my life. I love making movies and performing in local plays.

Ariel: Before I began Saddle Club, I definitely would have considered myself a singer (recording artist), because I didn’t have much experience with being a television actress or riding horses. But now that I have fallen in love with both of those, it’s going to take me a little while to decide which I consider myself.

Victoria: I would like to consider myself all three because then if I were a dancer too, I would not only be a “triple threat” – I would kind of also be a quadruple threat. Ha-ha. But really I think primarily I am an actor and am working to be good enough to consider myself all three.

Q: Would you like to belong to a real Saddle Club?

Lauren: Ha-ha, I probably would love to be a part of a real saddle club. Simply because I’ve experienced first-hand the sort of fun you’d get up to.

Ariel: I would LOVE to belong to a real Saddle Club. What could possibly be better than hanging out with your best friends and riding horses all day? It would be like a dream come true! There is nothing more special in life than family and friendship. I believe the Saddle Club really understands how important those things are.

Victoria: I think the saddle club that I am a part of is perfect. I not only get to ride horses and hang with my friends, but I get to act, sing and travel, too.

RIDING HIGH WITH “THE SADDLE CLUB” CASTDiscovery Kids’ international TV show “The Saddle Club” features three best friends as they learn to ride in Australia. Cast members Ariel Kaplan (“Lisa” on the show), Lauren Dixon (“Stevie”) and Victoria Campbell (“Carole”), shown below from left, talked with EQUINE INTERNATIONAL.


Photographs ©2009 Craw

ford Productions & Protocol Entertainm

ent

Q: What do you hope to do professionally after the Saddle Club series ends?

Lauren: I hope to continue with acting and pursue music as well. I had a lot of fun recording our album with the other girls, and it’s an experience I hope to repeat in the future.

Ariel: At the moment, I haven’t really decided exactly what I want to do. I’m going to try and be a “normal” kid for a while and get some schooling and relaxing time, but I would really love to do another TV series, musical or even a film would be awesome!

Victoria: I already do other acting parts in between my travels with The Saddle Club, so when it is over I likely will continue with my acting, but who knows? As for singing and horse riding, I will keep practicing and see where life takes me.

Q: What is exciting about your singing career?

Lauren: I think it’s exciting when we’re able to do live performances, because then you can see how all of your hard work has paid off. It’s great to see kids who know all the lyrics and are really into the songs and characters.

Ariel: I think the most exciting part of my singing career is that I finally get to be on an album! “Best Friends” is the new Saddle Club album and I’m fortunate enough to be a part of it. It’s full of fun pop songs and beautiful ballads, and I am truly proud that I got the opportunity to present the awesome songs to the fans.

Victoria: I think a lot of girls my age want to be singers. I am lucky enough to get a chance, so young, to learn what it takes. I also really enjoy traveling, entertaining the kids and meeting people from around the world. Plus it is really cool having our own CD in stores.

Q: What message do you hope the tV show gives to girls your age about life, horses and riding?

Lauren: I hope it delivers the message that you should just have fun. Kids (especially girls) are always trying to be older; and I think The Saddle Club represents just being yourself.

Ariel: I hope the message the TV show gives to girls my age is that life is short and you really need to make the most of every opportunity that comes along. You should go out on adventures

with your best friends and truly appreciate them and always be there for them. Go out riding, feel free and have the time of your life, but you must always remember to take care of your horses or any animal, the same way they care for you, because they can teach you so much about yourself and the world around you.

Victoria: Working together, being honest and real is what is important in life not how much money your Dad has and what clothes you wear. Not that having money and dressing nicely is bad, but that should not define who you are. With horses it shows how important it is to take good care of your horse and give it lots of love.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not filming?

Lauren: Just like anyone else, I really enjoy hanging out with friends and having fun. And as I mentioned earlier, I love making movies and being creative.

Ariel: When I’m not filming I enjoy taking dancing and singing lessons, shopping, writing music, taking photos, watching movies, reading, having slumber parties and of course, HORSE RIDING!

Victoria: I love shopping, but my answer to that last question helps me keep it in perspective. I love doing makeovers on my friends and family. My neighbors have horses and I am involved in training them. I enjoy playing all sorts of sports, for fun, especially soccer. During the winter I take gymnastics and love it. I love spending time with my pet rabbit, he’s really cute, possibly the cutest rabbit in the whole wide world – lol! Next week I am going go-carting, which should be fun; it will be only my second time doing that. I am always trying new and different things and I like to stay active, but I also do enjoy snuggling in on rainy days and reading a good book or playing board games with my family.


Up Close and personalWant to hear more about what’s on the minds of the Saddle Club actors? In an exclusive interview with EQUINE INTERNATIONAL in our free digital edition, the Saddle Club girls talk about their on-set horses, the types of riding they enjoy, and their behind-the-scenes lives as young riders on the hottest international youth TV show on the planet: www.equineinternational.com


The world’s finest model horse and the world’s most prestigious equestrian competition have joined together. In November, Breyer Animal Creations was named the Official Model Horse of the Alltech Games. Among Breyer’s model horses and riding sets are models of each of the three lead “Saddle Club” actors and the horses they ride on the TV show. Breyer is committed to bringing the magic of horses to children everywhere. At the Alltech Games, Breyer will create an interactive play area for children, incorporating equine-themed activities using Breyer’s realistic model horses and actual mini-jumps for youngsters. “Breyer is proud to support the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, where the world’s finest riders and equine athletes will become heroes to the next generation of budding young riders,” said Stephanie Macejko, Vice President of Marketing at Breyer. As part of the partnership, Breyer has commissioned sculptor Kathleen Moody to create a sculpture to symbolize the spirit of the horses competing at the Alltech Games in eight disciplines. Known as “Esprit,” the sculpture will be available in several mediums to commemorate the Games. Breyer will also create a number of Traditional® Series portrait models of key competitors from various disciplines, play sets for children incorporating the Alltech Games disciplines, and other commemorative products. Breyer Animal Creations, a division of Reeves International, Inc., is the world’s best-selling brand of equine-themed toys, gifts and collectibles. For information about the real horses that inspire Breyer’s models: www.BreyerHorses.com


The “Saddle Club” actors (CD cover above) sang at Breyerfest 2009. Below from left, the girls with their TV mounts and Breyer models: Carole and Starlight, Lisa and Prancer, and Stevie and Belle.


One of Hygain’s sponsored riders who is gearing for the Alltech Games, Nicole Kullen (who was featured in the Summer 2009 issue of EQUINE INTERNATIONAL) is continuing on her path to greatness with her horse, Nikshar Nomination. Read what it was like

for them to compete at their National Championships, where they became the 2009 Equestrian Australia Para Equestrian Grade1b National Champions.

riding High on the road to the alltech gamesBY NICOLE KULLEN

The day we arrived at the Nationals in September, I unpacked and settled Nom in to his stable before we then got ready to have a ride. A storm was slowly coming in and we were trying to beat the storm so I could give Nom a work and have a lesson with my coach before the Nationals officially began. Luckily we managed to work Nom and have my lesson before the rain hit. Once we were back in the stables, it came pouring down. It was a horrible storm . . . The next day, Wednesday, was another day for training and for the rest of the riders to arrive and settle in. Plus we had a Riders Meeting, as well as a Trot Up with the High Performance Management and Team Vet. The competition began on Thursday. It was a great start to our campaign, with Nom and I winning our FEI Para EQ Gr1b

Team Test with a score of 72.55%. We were also one of three riders who made up the NSW Team for the State Teams event and we won. NSW are now the 2009 EA Para EQ National State Team Champions! This day also saw the Official Launch of the Para Equestrian Program with Equestrian Australia, which was very exciting to be a part of. Friday was yet another interesting day with a few minor complications, but Nom performed well for me and listened to nearly everything I asked. We won our FEI Para EQ Gr1b Individual Championship Test with another fantastic score of 73.33! Then came Saturday, the final day of competition and our Freestyle to Music Test. I was very proud of Nom, who worked beautifully for me. He just did everything I asked, our shoulder-in and half passes were great, and the overall test went so super that I had people coming up to me with tears in their eyes saying

Editor’s note: the next step for nicole and nom is a 3* this December at Werribee,

Victoria, the first of three major alltech games Qualifier/Selection events for

para-Equestrian. read about nicole and others in alltech games selection trials

for various disciplines in upcoming issues of EQUINE INTERNATIONAL.


they loved it. So I was extremely proud of Nom and how far we’ve come together. We won our FEI Para EQ Gr1b Freestyle to Music Test with a score of 75.8%. Plus one of our international judges gave me an 81.11% for our Artist Marks Section, which I’m so excited about as that’s a personal best for me . . . our freestyle score was 6.1% ahead of second place, so that was exciting too. To top off the last day of competition was the National Grade Champion Presentations. I’m very proud to announce that Nikshar Nomination and I are now the 2009 Equestrian Australia Para Equestrian Grade1b National Champions. We were also the only combination at the National Championships to consistently score 70+% in every test ridden at the Championships. A lot of hard work with the help of many great people who I’m extremely grateful for has paid off. A very happy beginning I’ll say, not ending, as our new four-year journey has just begun again. This time our sights are set towards achieving selection to represent Australia at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, USA, and then on to the 2012 London Paralympic Games. So hopefully, Lexington, here we come if we can keep up and improve on these sorts of performances at the three Alltech Games Qualifier/Selection events in the near future. Also, I want to give special thanks to my main sponsor, Hygain, who have been a great support in the last few months, as well as a private supporter who will know who they are. Nom is looking in great condition thanks to their Hygain Ice pellets and their Hygain Flexion joint supplement. Everyone commented on how well he was looking and

how much we’ve improved, even since our appearance in Hong Kong at the 2008 Beijing Games. Also a thank you to Equestrian Australia, the Para Equestrian High Performance Program and all involved for putting on such a great National Championships. I really look forward to our future of Para Equestrian under their expert guidance. More information: www.nicolekullen.com

Grade Champion Presentations. I’m very proud to announce that Nikshar Nomination and I are now the 2009 Equestrian Australia Para Equestrian Grade1b National Champions. We were also the only combination at the National Championships to consistently score 70+% in every test ridden at the

A lot of hard work with the help of many great people who

PHOTOS ©PHOTOFINISH

“Our goal at AC is to create a business environment where every customer experience is positive,” says Dale Downs, President of AC Nutrition. Since AC Nutrition acquired Bluebonnet Feeds in July 2008, the company has strived to continue to follow its philosophy: “Quality is the Best Value.” As a Global Animal Health and Nutrition Partner in the Alltech Games, the Ardmore, Oklahoma company prides itself on its individualized care for each customer’s needs and delivering safe, quality feeds. “We know that the foundation for health is a balanced diet made with the highest standards, latest research and quality ingredients,” said Missy Williams, AC Nutrition Equine Marketing Manager. “These standards are available to our customers by providing ‘Open Label’ ingredient disclosures and a complete nutrient analysis that is guaranteed in each bag.” In a recent survey conducted by Horse Journal, Bluebonnet was one of only four equine feed manufacturers that responded to a questionnaire on feed quality. Sent out to 65 manufacturers across the United States, the survey focused on basic safety issues and grain quality. AC Nutrition was more than happy to share the standards it has set in place. Only including USDA Grade #1 or #2 grain in its feed, regular testing for mycotoxins and heavy metals, and upholding strict standards for their suppliers are just a few of the items AC Nutrition has incorporated on its checklist for producing safe, quality feeds. AC Nutrition wants its customers to be just as knowledgeable about the brand of feed they choose. “We want them to know the quality of the feed, the desired outcome of the product and the ingredients that are in it,” Williams said. “One of the most important elements in choosing a branded feed is what

grade of grain is used and the quality and safety in manufacturing. It is important and beneficial to know the product ingredients and the steps and procedures taken to protect your horse and provide premium nutrition.” That’s why Bluebonnet decided to incorporate many of Alltech’s technologies in its nutrition program. “What is important to one horse owner can differ to another, but caring for horses and providing the best nutrition for them is still first and foremost for horse owners today,” Williams said. “Whether that’s driven from energy levels, body condition, fat and fiber inclusions, carbohydrate issues, clinical conditions or economic factors, there is a Bluebonnet feed carefully developed with the latest research and technology.”

aC nutrition Sets a Standard in Equine feed


When asked why they choose Bluebonnet Feeds, many of AC Nutrition

customers will say, “It just makes sense.” Whether it’s a purple ribbon at the

local 4-H competition, proper care for an old friend, or taking the gold at the

Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, AC Nutrition has set a standard in equine

nutrition quality and has a Bluebonnet feed specifically in mind for your horse.

guabi-fed Horses Win Championship

Quarter Horses won first and second places in one of the most important horse race competitions of the breed in Brazil. The National Championship was held in the city of Avaré (SP). Sergio Arena was the winner with two horses, both fed with Guabi Horse Feed. Arena’s mounts eat Equitage Supreme and Equiturbo supplementation. Equitage Supreme is recommended for athletic horses in high-performance activities such as racing, rodeos or jumping that require rapid-use energy sources. Equiturbo is a concentrated energy booster for athletic horses at maximum fitness. Guabi is proud to contribute to these achievements. Information: www.guabi.com.br

Champion reiners rely on Bluebonnet National Reining Horse Association competitors Sam Smith, Cody Sapergia, Andy Johnson and Brian Bell (in photo) can all testify to the success of the Bluebonnet nutrition program with their horses. “Good nutrition is the foundation of any equine program. Without good nutrition, nothing else matters,” said Bell of Marietta, Oklahoma. A six-time NRHA world champion, Bell trains and breeds horses to compete in reining. A physically demanding sport, reining requires Bell’s horses to both look and feel great. “It’s no different than a human athlete. You get out what you put in,” Bell said. “We feel like we’ve found that level of quality in AC Nutrition.” Good nutrition is also crucial to Bell’s breeding program. The ranch foals about 30 mares each year. By providing a higher quality feed, its broodmares maintain better body condition while nursing their foals and can often rebreed more quickly. With AC Nutrition’s program, the Bell Ranch has had no cases of Osteochondritis Dessicans (OCDs) or any other joint problems in its young horses.

For competition horses, Bell recommends using Equilene 14. Bell has observed great muscle tone, shiny coats, healthy digestion and plenty of energy by incorporating the feed into his regular nutrition program. “We care about our horses, and we want them to be the best they can be. Competition in the show arena is tough, and if you’re going to win you need every advantage possible,” Bell said. “We believe it starts with great nutrition. It just makes sense.”


new masterfeeds treat to Help fundCanadians gearing for alltech games

Equine Canada and Masterfeeds Inc. have named “love bites” the Official Treat of the Canadian Equestrian Team. The joint partnership will raise funds for the Canadian Equestrian Team en route to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in 2010. Masterfeeds, an Official Gold Feed Partner for the Games, will donate $1 from the purchase of each treat bag to the Equine Canada Athlete Assistance Fund. The fund’s sole purpose is to help realize the dreams of many of Canadian athletes – especially those most in need of financial support – to compete for their country. “This partnership illustrates the commitment of both parties to support our Canadian Equestrian Team as they

compete for world honors amongst 60 countries at the North American debut of the [Alltech] Games,” said Akaash Maharaj, CEO of Equine Canada and Rob Flack, President of Masterfeeds, in a joint statement. Developed by Masterfeeds, “love bites” are specially formulated for the performance horse and come in cherry and apple flavors. The Official Treat was launched in November at the Equine Canada/Masterfeeds exhibit at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and is available at participating feed retailers across Canada.

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Most of us look at the color of a bale of hay, cut the bailer twine and pull apart a few flakes to inspect for dust or mold spores, and maybe inhale deeply

to analyze the aroma. If we like what we see and smell, chances are we will peel off several flakes and toss them to our horses without a second thought. But what about what we can’t see? How many of us have taken the time to look past what a hay bale looks like and instead make the effort to discover what is in our horses’ hay? The same goes for the grain we choose to feed our equestrian partners. Fancy labels, catchy slogans and endorsements sometimes override the desire to delve further into the cold hard facts of what we are really feeding. Whether it is a top level performance horse, breeding stallion, lactating mare or backyard best friend, the contents of hay and grain impacts our horses’ ability to function at optimum levels. Knowledge of these contents is crucial, as even the most well-meaning owner can inadvertently cause more harm than good by adding additional supplements to their horses’ diet. This is where the groundbreaking research of PEAK Equine Analytics (a subsidiary of Ritchie Feed & Seed Co., Inc.) plays a crucial role. PEAK was developed by Ritchie’s to fill a void in the industry and has perfected the science of predicting digestibility in horses. Simply put, PEAK is able to predict carbohydrate

availability in a hay or grain sample, how quickly it becomes accessible for absorption after ingestion, and for how long it is available. Compiling this nutrient data is accomplished through PEAK’s Horse Digestibility Gas System, which mimics the natural fermentation process that occurs during digestion in the horse’s caecum. How does the system work? Fresh manure is gathered from PEAK’s research stable, so that the “run” can be conducted as soon as possible after collection. Once transported to the laboratory, a buffer is added to the manure, creating an inoculum that mimics a horse’s caecum. To this sample, PEAK then adds the feedstuffs in question (hay, grain or supplement). The measured gas production is then translated into an easily interpreted graph, which demonstrates the rate and extent of digestion. This graph provides valuable data on both the rate and the extent of the digestive processes and availability within a 72-hour period. Other existing analyses only offer a starting point and do not present the horse’s perspective on how a particular feedstuff will actually be digested. The results provided by PEAK’s system are crucial in determining whether the hay, grain or supplements being fed are appropriate for a particular horse, as metabolic and nutritional requirements will differ among horses.

peak performance requires pEaK analytics


By natalie gaanderse

PEAK Equine Analytics has taken much of the guesswork out of feeding our horses. Instead of subjective analytics of a hay bale or a scoop of grain, PEAK’s Horse Digestibility Gas System provides horse owners with the concrete science behind what should be included or excluded in their horse’s diet and informs owners if adding various supplements to a horse’s diet will benefit its health or performance. There is no other analytical technique capable of providing such data. So the next time you cut open a lovely green bale and inhale the sweet fragrance of mold-free hay, rip open a new bag of grain promising a champion in the making, or sprinkle a scoop of miracle powder capable of producing a shiny coat, strong hooves and pain free joints, remember to think twice about what you really know is in what you choose to feed your equine partner.


“Plain and simple, standard assays don’t tell you much. I wanted to know how the horse uses what it is being fed, be it hay, grain or a supplement. What we have developed is a powerful analytical tool that keeps horses performing at optimal nutritional levels . . . all the time. It is truly an industry first.”

– Jay Johnston, M.Sc. P.Ag., CEO - Ritchie Feed & Seed

have developed is a powerful analytical tool that keeps horses performing at optimal nutritional levels . . . all the time. It is truly an industry first.”

– Jay Johnston, M.Sc. P.Ag., CEO - Ritchie Feed & Seed

KENTUCKY HORSE PARK • LEX INGTON, KENTUCKY USA • SEPTEMBER 25–OCTOBER 10, 2010 • www.alltechfeigames.com

A TERRIFIC HOLIDAY GIFT FOR YOUR FAMILY IS A TRIP TO THE 2010 GAMES.

The best tickets are selling out fast for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. It’s the first time the

pinnacle event of equestrian sport has been held in the United States, and may be a once-in-a-lifetime

opportunity to experience them in person. And the time is now to make sure you’re in. To arrange tickets to

any of the world championship events, or to book hospitality, accommodations or transportation packages,

just go to www.alltechfeigames.com. But don’t horse around – the good spots are going fast.

THE GREAT SEATS ARE GOING FAST! GET YOURS TODAY AT www.alltechfeigames.com/tickets.

WEG 273 chronicle 8.5x11 FA.indd 1 11/30/09 2:54:44 PM

Equine international 08

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