bc's equine lifestyle - spring/summer 2016

The Official Member Magazine of Horse Council BC

Spring/Summer 2016www.hcbc.ca

BC’s

Equine Lifestyle

BC SUMMER GAMES STARTS IN JULY IN ABBOTSFORD - HAVE YOU DECLARED YET?

PROTECT YOUR TRAILS - HOW TO KEEP BC TRAIL SYSTEMS HORSE FRIENDLY

BC HERITAGE CIRCUIT & CHAMPIONSHIPS GET A NEW LOOK FOR 2016

2015 HCBC AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED!

$10,000 in Cash & PrizesFind out more online at www.hcbc.ca

July 8 - 10, 2016Maple Ridge EquiSport CEntre | Maple Ridge, BC

NEW FOR 2016!HCBC MINI PRIX

with additional $500 in Prize Money

fAn Open ENDURANCE RIDE

BC Heritage Championships

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HCBC Affiliate DirectoryHCBC Club Directory

DIRECTORIES58

President’s Message4

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In This Issue

2015 HCBC Award RecipientsHCBC’s 2016 Horse Sport Symposium With Jec Aristotle BallouHorse Day 2016 At The PNE!Two Lifetime Memberships Awarded in 2015!Share The Trails Workshop 2016Apply For A 2016 HCBC ScholarshipThank You To Our Partners

Vaulting: Taking Equestrian Skills To New Heights!

Horse Rescue Training In BC Gets A PonyName The Horse Contest!2016 Census of Agriculture Is On The HorizonBiosecurity: Why Is It So Important?

Coaches, Riders, & The Theory Of Kaizen

BC’sEquine Lifestyle

Spring/Summer 2016

is published biannually byHORSE COUNCIL BC

27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5T: 604-856-4304 | F: 604-856-4302

Toll Free: 1-800-345-8055www.hcbc.ca

Horse Council BCEXECUTIVE COMMITTEELIZ SAUNDERSPresident250-359-7293

CAROLYN FARRISTreasurer250-546-6083

LISA MANDERSecretary604-719-1989

SUSAN THOMPSONVP Education604-943-8155

SUSAN HARRISONVP Competition250-416-0094TERRE O’BRENNANVP Recreation604-940-6958

ALLISON WARRENVP Membership & Marketing604-512-4472

LYNDA ATKINSONVP Industry250-747-3700

STAFFLISA LAYCOCKExecutive [email protected]

KELLY COUGHLINSenior Program DirectorManager, Industry & [email protected]

WENDY SEWELLManager, Coaching & [email protected]

ALI BUCHANANManager, Competition & [email protected]

JENNIFER PIPERecreation [email protected]

SANDY UNDERWOODMembership [email protected]. 1002

AYNSLEY CAIRNSMarketing & Communications [email protected]

LYNN WALLDENFinance & [email protected]. 1007

LYNDA [email protected]. 1001

Copyright, including electronic, belongs to HCBC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Articles and letters are welcome from members, but must be signed and include a phone number. The publisher reserves the right to revise all material accepted for publication, including articles, columns, photographs, images, and advertisements.

UPCOMING PUBLICATION DATESFall/Winter 2016 | October 2016Spring/Summer 2017 | April 2017

NEWS

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

INDUSTRY &AGRICULTURE

COACHES CORNER

COMPETITION

TRAILS & RECREATION

BC Heritage Circuit & Championships - What’s New for 2016!Exciting Changes For The 2016 Heritage ChampionshipsHave You Declared For The BC Summer Games In Abbotsford Yet?

Protect Your Trails

About The Cover:Meet Norseman! Norseman is owned by Esmee Ingham of Langley, BC. HCBC is honoured to be presenting him with the 2015 HCBC Horse of the Year - Non-Competitive Award later this year.

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Participation & Travel Funding Available In 2016

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FUNDING

4 | Equine Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2015

President’s Message

The signs, sounds and smells of spring are in the air and on the ground the grass is starting to grow and trees are budding (at least where I live in the Kootenays), I know everything is in full bloom on the coast and Islands but for many of us it seems like spring comes too slowly, only when the clocks change and we get the extra hour of light in the evening do things improve and it makes a huge difference to ones’ feeling

of wellbeing. With Spring comes feisty, shedding horses and ponies and that are also happy to see longer, warmer days. I guess we all look forward to the upcoming riding/driving/equine activity related season.

As President of Horse Council I have spent my winter working on a wide variety of items. It started with a social media frenzy concerning insurance and we learned that the average person does not understand how insurance policies work or who is responsible for what. Our aim this year is to improve this understanding and yes, we are currently reviewing the insurance program that is offered as part of your membership package.

Then on a lighter, more pleasant note, my daughter and I visited George Bloor at his indoor arena and barn in Fruitvale (near Trail) and presented a very humble and grateful man with his “Life Time Membership Award”. George told us that he was actually member #1, while Sherman Olson became the first President of Horse Council BC. (There is a picture of the presentation in the Zone 1 report.)

Zone AGMs took place during January and February. There are 8 Recreational/Sport Zones across the Province and each Zone has two Director positions. These are elected on alternate years. This year Horse Council initiated a new format for the election of Zone Directors in five Zones with the intent of providing Horse Council members greater opportunity to apply for a Director position. The call for Directors was sent to all members prior to their Zone meetings. Five Zones then held their AGM’s via conference call or a combination of call and face to face meeting. One Zone had multiple applicants and voting was done via email, which resulted in 60 plus members voting! This is a larger number than usually seen at face to face meetings held in one location as has been the norm. Lisa Laycock and I attended the AGM calls in all 5 Zones and other than a few technical difficulties things seemed to go smoothly. The other 3 Zones held traditional face to face/single location AGM meetings where attendance varied, as it did on the conference calls. At the Board Meeting in November we passed out a survey with questions aimed at discovering how Directors felt they were doing in their jobs as Directors and how well we are doing at helping Directors in their positions. It appears that Affiliate Directors may be slightly more aware than the Zone Directors of how to be effective in meetings and of their roles and responsibilities. Overall, it seems that our Directors are fairly comfortable in their positions with Horse Council. However, we do have several Zones with only one Director at this time so if you are interested in getting more involved with your organization,

please get in touch with either Lisa or myself. We are always available if you have suggestions, questions or concerns about being a Director or any other Horse Council business.

After a summer of forest fires, evacuations and destruction the winter has followed with a rash of barn fires across Canada. We should all take them as a wakeup call and take the time to check things in our stables and barns. Several helpful publications are available on the Horse Council web site these include a “Barn Safety Check List”, “Fire Safety for your Barn”, and “Disaster Preparedness Guidelines for Horse Owners”, as well as a short video which can be viewed online. Let’s hope for a quiet summer, but make sure we are prepared for most eventualities.

That outlines some of the topics that I have been involved with over the past few months. There have been many hours on the phone and time spent on my duties as your President and as a Director on the Board of Equine Canada (a position that is related to my position with Horse Council). I am also a member of the EC Provinces Committee which is composed of all 11 PTSO Presidents and senior staff. As part of the Provinces Committee, Lisa and I have worked to ensure that BC has excellent representation on various Equine Canada committees as our National Organization goes through some major changes to its operations. Our thanks go out to several Horse Council members who have stepped up to these committee challenges. On March 10, Susan Thompson and Lisa Laycock had the pleasure of attending the annual Sport BC Awards, where Susan presented Maureen Walters with the HCBC President’s award for her volunteer work in equestrian sport. It sounds like it was a great evening celebrating the best in Sport in BC. Congratulations Maureen, you are certainly deserving of this award and recognition. Thank you Susan for making the presentation on behalf of Horse Council.

As always, thanks to all the Horse Council staff, you are all really professional and friendly and you definitely take your jobs very seriously.

Thanks also to you, the Board, the Executive, and the members! Without you we would not have a Horse Council with which to serve the equine community.

Have a great riding/driving/equine activity filled season!

Liz Saunders HCBC President

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DIRECTORIES

HCBC Club & AffiliateDirectory

HCBC AFFILIATESBC 4-H PROVINCIAL COUNCILwww.bc4h.bc.ca

Agassiz Rainbow 4-H [email protected] Community 4-H [email protected] 4-H [email protected] Mountain 4-H [email protected] N Bridles 4-H [email protected] C 4-H [email protected] 4H Horse [email protected] Country 4H Horse [email protected] Horse 4-H [email protected] Valley 4H Horse [email protected] L 4-H [email protected] St James 4-H [email protected] Valley Footprints 4-H [email protected] 4-H [email protected] Valley 4-H [email protected] ‘N Boots 4-H [email protected] and Hands Haines Junction 4-H [email protected] and Hounds 4-H [email protected] HoofBeats 4-H [email protected] Valley 4-H [email protected] Valley 4-H [email protected] 4-H [email protected] Trail Breakers 4-H [email protected]

Prairie Trotters Horse,Hound & Busy Hands 4-H [email protected] Community 4-H [email protected] Rednecks 4-H [email protected] Lake/Miocene 4-H [email protected] Spurs Horse 4-H [email protected] Horse 4-H [email protected] Champs 4-H [email protected] Valley Trail Dusters [email protected] Country Craft and Critters 4-H [email protected] Valley Silver Spurs 4-H [email protected] Riders Horse 4-H [email protected] Community 4_H [email protected] 4-H [email protected] River Riders 4-H [email protected] Lopers 4-H [email protected] Young Riders 4-H [email protected] Lake Multi 4-H [email protected]

BACK COUNTRY HORSEMEN SOCIETY OF BCwww.bchorsemen.org

Alberni Valley Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] Kootenay Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] Boundary Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected]


DIRECTORIES

North Cariboo Back Country [email protected] Okanagan Back Country [email protected] Thompson Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] River Back Country [email protected] Valley Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected] Stikine Back Country [email protected] Cariboo Back Country [email protected] Island Central Back Country [email protected] Island North Back Country [email protected] Island South Back Country [email protected] Forks Back Country [email protected] Back Country [email protected]

BC HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATIONwww.bchja.com

BC CARRIAGE DRIVING SOCIETYwww.bccarriagedriving.com

BC Carriage Driving Fraser Valley [email protected] Carriage Driving Vancouver [email protected] Trails Carriage Driving [email protected] Carriage Driving [email protected] East Interior Carriage Driving [email protected] West Interior Carriage Driving [email protected] Carriage Driving [email protected]

BC QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATIONwww.bcqha.com

Lower Mainland Quarter Horse [email protected]

South Central Quarter Horse [email protected] Island Quarter Horse [email protected]

BC THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATIONwww.vcn.bc.ca/bctra/

Balance Equestrian [email protected] Hoofbeats Assisted Activity Program (chaaps)www.chaaps.caCowichan Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.ctra.netCreston & District Society For Commmunity Living Therapueticwww.cdscl.com/trp.htmErrington Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.etra.caGolden Maples [email protected] Fraser Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.nftra.caNorth Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.notra.infoNorthwest Therapeutic Equestrian Associationwww.nwtea.comPacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA) Langleywww.prda.caPony Pals Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.ponypalsstables.com/therapeutic-ridingSaltspring Island Therapeutic Riding Associationwww.sstra.caTherapeutic Riding on the Sunshine Coast (TROTSC)www.trotsc.comValley Therapeutic Equestrian Associationwww.vtea.caVictoria Therapeutic Ridingwww.vtra.ca

CANADIAN PONY CLUB BC DIVISIONwww.canadianponyclub.org

BC Island Alberni Valley Pony [email protected] Island Comox Valley Pony [email protected] Island Greater Victoria Pony [email protected] Islands Campbell River Pony [email protected] BC Islands Cowichan Valley Pony [email protected] BC Islands P’s & Q’s Pony [email protected] BC Islands Salt Spring Island Pony [email protected] BCIN Armstrong Pony [email protected] BCIN Kelowna Pony [email protected]

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DIRECTORIES

BCIN Lakes District Pony [email protected] North Thompson Pony [email protected] BCIN Omineca Pony [email protected] BCIN Penticton Pony [email protected] BCIN Shuswap Pony [email protected] BCIN South Thompson Pony [email protected] BCIN Terrace Pony [email protected] BCIN Thompson Valley Pony [email protected] BCIN Vernon & District Pony [email protected] BCIN West Kootenay Pony [email protected] BCLM Alouette Pony [email protected] BCLM Boundary Bay Pony [email protected] BCLM Burnaby Lake Pony [email protected] BCLM Campbell Valley Pony [email protected] BCLM East Maple Ridge Pony [email protected] BCLM Glen Valley Pony [email protected] Golden Ears Pony [email protected] BCLM Hazelmere Pony [email protected] BCLM Langley Pony [email protected] Mission Hills Pony [email protected] BCLM Mount Cheam Pony [email protected] BCLM Richmond Pony [email protected] BCLM Vancouver Pony [email protected]

CANADIAN THOROUGHBRED HORSE SOCIETY (BC DIVISION)www.cthsbc.org

DRESSAGE BCwww.dressagebc.com

ENDURANCE RIDERS ASSOCIATION OF BCwww.erabc.com

EQUESTRIAN VAULTING ASSOCIATION OF BCwww.vaultcanada.org/EVABC

Airborn Vaulterswww.allinclusivehorsemanship.comFreedom Acrobaticswww.freedomacrobatics.comFusion [email protected] Kaskati [email protected] Koot-Neigh Vaulterswww.kootneigh.comManestream Vaulterswww.manestreamvaulters.comNorthLight Vaulterswww.letsvault.comTriple M [email protected] [email protected] Coast Vaulterswww.westcoastvaulters.com

HARNESS RACING SOCIETY OF BCwww.harnessracingbc.com

HORSE TRIALS BCwww.horsetrialsbc.com


DIRECTORIES

HCBC CLUBS100 Mile & District Outriders Club100 Mile House, BCwww.100mileoutriders.com

AAgriplex Riders ClubPrince George, [email protected]

Alex Fraser Park SocietyQuesnel, BCwww.alexfraserpark.com

American Saddlebred Horse Association Of BCAldergrove, BC

Armstrong Enderby Riding ClubArmstrong, BCarmstrongenderbyridingclub.com

BBaker Creek Gymkhana ClubBaker Creek, [email protected]

Barnhartvale Horse & Hiker Trail Preservation SocietyKamloops, [email protected]

Barriere & District Riding ClubBarriere, BCwww.barrieredistrictridingclub.com

BBQ Ranchers Community ClubWardner, [email protected]

BC Competitive Trail Riders AssociationNanaimo, BCwww.bcctra.ca

BC Cutting Horse AssociationKamloops, BCwww.bccha.ca

BC Interior Arabian Horse AssociationSalmon Arm, BCwww.bciaha.com

BC Interior Hunter Jumper AssociationPrince George, [email protected]

BC Ranch Cutting Horse AssociationLangley, BCwww.bcrcha.com

BC Standardbred Horse Adoption SocietyLangley, [email protected]

BC Team Cattle Penning AssociationMaple Ridge, BCwww.bctcpa.com

BC Team Roping Association100 Mile House, BCwww.ropebc.org

BC Young Riders Dressage ProgramPort Coquitlam, BCwww.bcyoungriders.com

Bit-A-Bling Grand EntryVancouver, BCwww.bitabling.com

Borsos Torzs Horse Archery ClubPemberton, BCwww.horsebackarchery.ca

Bouchie Lake Gymkhana Club 2Quesnel, [email protected]

Boundary Horse AssociationGrand Forks, [email protected]

Bowen Island Horse Owners And Riders AssociationBowen Island, BCwww.bihora.org

British Columbia Interior Morgan Horse ClubKamloops, BCwww.bcimhc.com

British Columbia Miniature Horse ClubLindell Beach, BCminiaturehorsesbc.com

Burnaby Horsemen’s AssociationBurnaby, BCwww.burnabyhorsemensassociation.ca

CCadora British Columbia AssociationNanaimo, BCwww.cadorabc.com

Campbell Valley Equestrian SocietyLangley, BCwww.cves.ca

Canadian Horse Heritage & Preservation SocietyLangley, BCwww.chhaps.org

Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders Association BCKelowna, BCwww.canadianwarmbloods.com

Cariboo Draft Horse & Driving Club150 Mile House, BC

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DIRECTORIES

Cedar Horse ClubLadysmith, [email protected]

Chetwynd Gymkhana ClubChetwynd, [email protected]

Chilliwack Riding ClubChilliwack, BCwww.chilliwackridingclub.com

Circle F Horse Rescue SocietyAbbotsford, BCwww.circlef.ca

Country DressageLangley, [email protected]

Courtenay CadoraMerville, BCwww.courtenaycadora.com

Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association of BCWynndel, [email protected]

Cowichan District Riding ClubDuncan, BCwww.showpen.com/cdrc

Creston Valley Horse AssociationCreston, BCwww.crestonvalleyhorseassociation.org

DDawson Creek & District Stables & Arena AssociationDawson Creek, [email protected]

Delta Riding ClubDelta, [email protected]

Denman/Hornby Island Equines AssociationDenman Island, [email protected]

Doe River Gymkhana ClubDawson Creek, [email protected]

EElk-Beaver Lake Equestrian SocietyVictoria, [email protected]

FFraser Lake Saddle ClubFraser Lake, BC

Fraser Valley Equestrian SocietyChilliwack, BCwww.fraservalleyequestrians.com

Fraser Valley Hunt SocietyAldergrove, BCwww.fraservalleyhunt.com

GGarden City Horsemen’s ClubMill Bay, BCwww.gchc.info

Garnett Valley GangKelowna, [email protected]

Git Along Horse ClubCharlie Lake, BCwww.gitalonghorseclub.com

Git Er Done Gymkhana ClubPritchard, BCwww.giterdonegymkhanaclub.com

HHaney Horsemen AssociationMaple Ridge, BCwww.haneyhorsemen.ca

Highlands Horse ClubVictoria, [email protected]

Hope for HorsesQualicum Beach, BCwww.islandequineaffair.ca

Horse Association of Central KootenayCrescent Valley, [email protected]

Horse Protection Society of BCLangley, BCwww.horseprotectionsocietyofbc.com

IInland Draft & Teamsters AssociationArmstrong, [email protected]

Interior Cutting Horse AssociationKnutsford, BCwww.ichacutting.com

Island Barrel RacingErrington, BCislandbarrelracing.web.com

KKamloops Therapeutic Riding AssociationKamloops, BCwww.ktrahome.ca


DIRECTORIES

Kelowna Gymkhana ClubKelowna, BCwww.kelownagymkhana.com

Kelowna Riding ClubKelowna, [email protected]

LLakes Community Horse ClubPrince George, [email protected]

Lakes District Cattle Penning AssociationBurns Lake, [email protected]

Langley Horse and Farm FederationLangley, BCwww.langleyhorsefederation.ca

Langley Riders SocietyLangley, BCwww.langleyriders.com

Lower Island Equestrian ClubVictoria, BCwww.liec.ca

Lower Mainland Ranch Sorting AssociationChilliwack, BCwww.lowermainlandranchsorting.com

Luxton Equestrian AssociationVictoria, [email protected]

MMaverick Riding ClubCranbrook, [email protected]

Metchosin Equestrian SocietyVictoria, [email protected]

Mid Island CadoraNanaimo, BCwww.midislandcadora.com

Mile Zero Roping ClubDawson Creek, [email protected]

Mission Horse ClubMission, BCwww.missionhorseclub.com

NNanaimo Equestrian AssociationNanaimo, BCwww.nanaimoequestrians.com

NCBC CADORAPrince George, [email protected]

Nelson & District Riding ClubNelson, BCwww.nelsonridingclub.com

New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption SocietyAbbotsford, BCwww.newstride.com

Nicola Valley Riding ClubMerritt, [email protected]

North Cariboo Draft Horse and Mule AssociationQuesnel, [email protected]

North Cariboo Gymkhana SocietyQuesnel, [email protected]

North Okanagan Rodeo ClubArmstrong, [email protected]

North Peace Light Horse AssociationFort St. John, BCwww.nplha.ca

North Peace Ride For The DisabledFort St. John, [email protected]

North Vancouver Island Horse AssociationCourtenay, BCwww.nviha.ca

Northern Horse And Mule Harness AssociationFort St. John, [email protected]

Northern Saddle ClubSmithers, BCwww.northernsaddleclub.com

OOceanside Hunter Jumpers AssociationParksville, BCwww.oceansidehunterjumpers.com

Okanagan Miniature Horse ClubVernon, [email protected]

Old Friends Canada SocietyLake Country, BColdfriendscanada.org

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DIRECTORIES

PPacific Coast Team Penners AssociationMaple Ridge, [email protected]

Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA) ChilliwackChilliwack, BCwww.prda.ca

Panorama Ridge Riding ClubSurrey, BCwww.prrc.org

Pass Creek Regional Exhibition SocietyRobson, BCwww.passcreekfair.com

Peace Country Horse & Rider AssociationTaylor, BCwww.pchra.net

Peace River Cutting Horse AssociationFort St. John, BCwww.northernhorse.com/prcha

Peachland Riding ClubPeachland, BCwww.peachlandridingclub.com

Pemberton Valley Trails AssociationMount Currie, [email protected]

Pinantan Equestrian ClubPinantan Lake, [email protected]

Pine Tree Riding ClubKamloops, BCwww.pinetreeridingclub.com

Pineridge Roping ClubKimberley, [email protected]

Pipsqueak Paddocks Miniature Horse Haven SocietyChilliwack, BCwww.pipsqueakpaddocks.com

Pleasant Valley Horse ClubTelkwa, [email protected]

Powell River Therapeutic Riding AssociationPowell River, [email protected]

Powell River Trail Riders ClubPowell River, [email protected]

Prince George Horse SocietyPrince George, BCwww.pghorsesociety.com

Prince George Rodeo AssociationPrince George, BCwww.pgra-bc.com

Prince George Therapeutic RidingPrince George, [email protected]

QQuesnel & District Riding ClubQuesnel, [email protected]

Quesnel Barrel Racers AssociationQuesnel, [email protected]

RReinforest RidersPort McNeill, [email protected]

Richmond Therapeutic Riding AssociationRichmond, BCwww.richmondtherapeuticriding.com

SSalmon Valley Gymkhana ClubPrince George, [email protected]

Selkirk Saddle ClubRevelstoke, BCwww.selkirksaddleclub.ca

Silver Spur Riding ClubErrington, BCwww.silverspurridingclub.org

Slocan Valley Outriders AssociationSlocan, [email protected]

Smithers Rodeo ClubSmithers, [email protected]

Sointula Horse ClubSointula, [email protected]

Sooke Saddle ClubSooke, [email protected]

South Country Cowboys AssociationJaffray, [email protected]

Southern Interior Dressage AssociationSalmon Arm, [email protected]


DIRECTORIES

Southlands Riding ClubVancouver, BCwww.southlandsridingclub.com

Southlands Therapeutic Riding SocietyVancouver, [email protected]

Squamish Equestrian Gymkhana ClubGaribaldi Highlands, [email protected]

Squamish Valley Equestrian AssociationSquamish, BCwww.svea.com

Summerland Rodeo Grounds Equine Development CommitteeSummerland, [email protected]

Sunshine Bay Riding ClubNelson, [email protected]

Sunshine Coast Equestrian ClubRoberts Creek, [email protected]

TTabor Mountain Recreation SocietyPrince George, BCwww.tabormountainrecreation.ca

The Great Cariboo Ride Society108 Mile Ranch, BCwww.greatcaribooride.com

Timberline Riders Gymkhana ClubPrince George, BCtimberlineriders.org

Tiny Tales Pony Rescue SocietyDelta, BCwww.ponyrescue.org

Totem Saddle ClubTerrace, BCwww.totemsaddleclub.com

Trail Horsemen’s SocietyRossland, [email protected]

Tweedsmuir Cavaliers Saddle ClubBurns Lake, BCtcsaddleclub.webs.com

VValley Riders - Sparwood SocietySparwood, BCwww.valleyriders.webstarts.com

Vancouver Island Appaloosa Horse ClubVictoria, BCwww.viaphc.webs.com

Vancouver Island Arabian Horse AssociationNanaimo, BCwww.viarabianhorse.com

Vancouver Island Hunter Jumper AssociationSaanich, BCwww.vihja.ca

Vernon District Riding ClubVernon, [email protected]

Victoria Polo ClubBrentwood Bay, BCwww.victoriapolo.com

Victoria Saanich CadoraSaanich, BCwww.vscadora.com

Vimy Western Riding ClubDuncan, [email protected]

Vintage Riders Equestrian ClubFort Langley, BCwww.vintage-equestrian.ca

WWells Gray Riders AssociationClearwater, [email protected]

West Coast Thunder Drill TeamAbbotsford, BCwww.westcoastthunderdrill.com

ZZajac Ranch For ChildrenVancouver, BCwww.zajacranch.com

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NEWS

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2015 AWARD RECIPIENTS!

Sherman Olson Lifetime Achievement AwardBorge Olsen

Coach of the YearJessie Blackmon

Horse Industry Professional of the YearNoel Asmar of Asmar Equestrian

Junior Athlete of the YearNatalie Alves

Horse of the Year - CompetitiveWallabee owned by Jolene Benham

Horse of the Year - Non-CompetitiveNorseman owned by Esmee Ingham

Congratulations to the worthy recipients of the Horse Council BC’s 2015 Awards! Each award winner will receive their award at an event of their own choosing throughout 2016.

Horse Council BC’s annual awards serve to honour outstanding achievement within BC’s equestrian community. These awards acknowledge those who have stood out from the crowd over

the past year and who have made a positive impact on the community as a whole. Each award recipient was nominated by two or more other Horse Council BC members for an award.

As of April 1st, 2016 HCBC has awarded one of the seven awards.Two will be awarded in May and the remaining three will be awarded in the Summer at various events.

HCBC Award

Recipients

2015

The HCBC Horse Sport Symposium was brought back to Thunderbird Show Park in Langley, BC on February 6th & 7th to an eager crowd of riding enthusiasts. The annual Horse

Sport Symposium has proved to be a popular event, bringing people from across British Columbia and even across the border from the USA to attend. This year Jec Aristotle Ballou was the clinician, bringing her wealth of knowledge about classical dressage, jumping, and western dressage training exercises.

Horses of varying disciplines were put through their paces doing lots of trot poles and cavaletti work in combination with classical exercises to increase balance and to encourage the proper use of muscle groups. Jec also showed some bodywork movements for horse owners to do with their horses to help release tension and assist with nerve connection. Results happened in real time as the audience was able to see riders and horses improve and correct errors right before their eyes.

The audience definitely appreciated the symposium format and was encouraged to participate through asking lots of questions during the two day symposium. Jec’s books are available to purchase through HCBC, visit: store.hcbc.ca to order online.

HCBC’s 2016 Horse Sport Symposium

With Jec Aristotle Ballou

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NEWS

We can’t wait for August! Horse Day is back at the Fair at the PNE! Come to the Agrodome on Saturday, August 27th to visit the horses and watch the Horse Day Extravaganza! Our family-friendly event is intended to show those new to horses that there’s lots to choose from when it comes to horse activities. Bring your non-horsey friends to see all the different clubs who are filling the barns with horses and booths and maybe you’ll end up with a new riding buddy!

Horse Day has been held annually since 2002 as ‘Horse Week;’ a full week celebrating the horse with events happening all over the province. The goal of Horse Day is to share the enjoyment of horses with the public and introduce newcomers to the beauty of favourite horse breeds and the fun of equestrian activities. Horse Council BC encourages its members to hold events during Horse Day and invite the public to come watch these events and activities — and to meet the horses!

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NEWS

2 Lifetime Memberships Awarded in 2015!

Dorothy Kirby from Nanaimo, BC and George Bloor from Trail, BC were awarded with Honourary Lifetime HCBC Memberships in December 2015.

There are few who have worked for as long and with as much passion for the vocation of teaching as Dorothy Kirby has. As a coach, Pony Club examiner, and tireless volunteer at the provincial and national levels, Dorothy has always believed in the importance of good coaching. She has spent decades advocating for programs like Pony Club and the Canadian coaching system. Dorothy continues to coach a few lucky students, and while her schedule may be a little less hectic, her commitment to good horsemanship and to the organizations she has helped to mold remains as strong as ever.

George Bloor was a pioneer in the BC horse industry and is still involved with horses today in the interior of BC. He is a mentor to many BC riders and trainers and an all around great horseman. While presenting George with the award we learned that his original HCBC Membership number was in fact 1. George was HCBC’s very first member 36 years ago when HCBC got it’s start (with George’s help of course!).

The Honourary Lifetime Membership Award is not something HCBC gives out on a regular basis. In fact, only five other people have ever been awarded with the same honours throughout the whole of HCBC’s history. Dorothy and George join the ranks of Bill Archibald, June Lalonde, Alf Fletcher, Danny Bland and Sherman Olson.

An Honourary Lifetime HCBC Membership may be granted by the HCBC Board of Directors, at their discretion, to any HCBC member who has demonstrated exceptionally outstanding service to HCBC and the BC equine community. The nomination criteria is tough and requires a majority vote (minimum 75%) of the HCBC Board of Directors present at a meeting to grant it. Any individual or club/affiliate of HCBC is entitled to nominate a candidate for “Honourary Lifetime Membership” at any time throughout the year. The award consists of a lifetime regular membership to HCBC. Nominations must be made in writing and sent to [email protected].

Share The TrailsWorkshop 2016

The 2016 Share the Trails Workshop celebrates the 5th year Horse Council has successfully gathered people together to talk about the different issues trail users, builders, and managers experience every day. To celebrate, we’ve gone back to the beginning and have focused this workshop on sharing the trails. Taking place in the lovely Salmon Arm area, topics include avoiding conflict and resolving disputes, working with First Nations groups, and discussions surrounding the

experiences and success of three different trail groups across BC.

We are excited to announce that Backroad Mapbooks is the lunchtime sponsor of this years’ workshop. Together, with the continued financial partnership of the Outdoor Recreation Council BC, and local planning assistance by area host Shuswap Trail Alliance, this promises to be the best workshop so far.

Keep checking our website, newsletters, and social media for information and updates about the workshop.

Sharethe Trails


NEWS

Thank You To Our Partners

SILVER

MEDIA

GOLD

Horse Council BC gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

HCBC Scholarship!Let HCBC help you further your education!

HCBC has up to five $1000.00 scholarships available to Horse Council BC members in good standing, who are a BC graduate from grade 12 and entering into a accredited College or University Study program.

CRITERIA

• Recipient must be a Horse Council BC member in good standing for at least two years prior to High School graduation or Scholarship application.

• Recipient must be a Graduate from a BC High School and be a resident of BC.

• Home Study, Home Schooling, or online programs do not qualify for this scholarship.

CONSIDERATIONS• Volunteer hours at equestrian events and within their

community. • Past or current participant in the HCBC High School

Recognition Program. • Academic excellence, minimum B average on transcript.• Participation experience at Equestrian events.

• Proven leadership, sportsmanship and contribution to equestrian sport.

• Equine or agricultural studies may be given preference. • Essay.

APPLICATION PROCESS• Application deadline is June 30th 2016.• Applications must include a copy of the students interim

transcript. • Applications must include confirmation of intent to enroll in

a Post Secondary Program at a college or university.• Application must include an essay that will reflect the

student’s eligibility for this scholarship and outline their post secondary plans. Please tell the scholarship committee why you feel you are a good candidate for the scholarship and outline your contributions to the sport and your community.

• Application must include proof of volunteering.

Learn more about the HCBC Scholarship program and download the application form online at: www.hcbc.ca/index.php/programseducation/programs/post-secondary-scholarship-program/

Apply For A 2016

www.hcbc.ca | 17

AT THE FAIR AT THE PNE

JOIN US FOR

HORSE DAY 2016SATURDAY AUGUST 27

EQUINE EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW!

HORSES

TONS OF FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

GAMESPONIES

AND YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THE


FUNDING

PARTICIPATION GRANTSThis program was created to encourage clubs to hold events that attract new participants to horses, clubs, riding and Equestrian Sport. For 2016, Athlete Development has been added as an additional focus for clubs holding clinics that offer athlete development and skill improvement for events such as BC Summer Games, Heritage Championships and the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships (on hiatus in 2016). Successful 2016 applications will be from HCBC Member Clubs holding events that are open to non-club members, increase participation and new membership for their club as well as those for athlete development. HCBC will administer grants until the funding is exhausted for 2016.

WHO CAN APPLY?Grants are available to current HCBC Clubs who are organizing and running the event. Clinics organized by individual HCBC members do not qualify.

GRANT AMOUNTS • $250 - $500 per event (two events per calendar year per

club maximum) until funding is exhausted.• Grant amounts will be based on geographic location with

clubs 200 km’s or more outside of the Lower Mainland receiving up to the maximum of $500 per clinic.

EVENT SCOPE • Events directed primarily at rider development (ie: BC

Heritage, BC Summer Games, General Performance, and Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships).

• Events directed at recreational rider participation also qualify.

• Grants will not be accepted for competitions. • Events should be open to all youth and adult riders or

participants. • “Horse training” clinics do not qualify. • Grant money is given to subsidize clinic costs paid by the

Club.• Participants must be HCBC members or become

members due to their attendance at the event.• Grant funds must be applied for and approved before the

event.

BC FERRIES SPORT EXPERIENCE PROGRAMThrough the BC Ferries Sport Experience Program, BC Ferries and viaSport provide travel support to eligible not-for-profit sport organizations and athletes.

Vouchers may be used by athletes traveling to compete in international events, national championships, western Canadian championships, provincial championships or selection camps (does not include pre-season, tournaments, regular season league or event play).

Eligible applicants may apply for up to 2 one-way passenger vouchers per eligible traveler.

WHO CAN APPLY?Applications may be submitted, individually or for a group, by the following:

• Athletes aged 18 years and younger, or someone representing the athlete (e.g. parent, guardian, coach),

• Not-for-profit provincial sport organizations,• Not-for-profit local sport organizations, clubs and

associations that are:• A member in good standing of an appropriate

provincial sport organization OR working in partnership with an appropriate provincial organization; and

• Demonstrate inclusive and equitable practices that maximize sport, recreation, physical activity and leadership opportunities in the community,

• Coaches or officials traveling to a recognized certification or professional development opportunity.

IMPORTANT: Applications for ferry vouchers must be received 12 business days before first day of travel in order to be considered for the grant.

WHERE TO APPLY FOR BOTH FUNDING PROGRAMSYou can find out more information about both programs and get the application forms online at www.hcbc.ca then to Membership->Funding for HCBC Members.

Participation & TravelFunding Available in 2016

www.hcbc.ca | 19

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Vaulting:Taking Equestrian Skill To New HeightsIf you love horses, have a passion for gymnastics and enjoy the thrill of acrobatics, then the sport of equestrian vaulting might be for you.

One of the oldest equestrian disciplines, vaulting has seen a surge in popularity since the mid-1900s when the sport reemerged in Europe and eventually found its way to Canada. It is most often described as gymnastics, dance and acrobatics on a moving horse and its appeal has led to the development of vaulting clubs in most regions of BC. It is one of the 10 disciplines recognized by the International Equestrian Federation and is part of the World Equestrian Games.

Vaulting is believed to have originated in the Greek and Roman eras when mounted soldiers, in full body armor, performed intricate makeovers on the back of charging horses as preparation for battle. As our means of warfare became more sophisticated, vaulting moved from the arena into the gymnasium. Those vault boxes and pommel horses seen in many gymnastics programs are testimony to that sport’s equestrian roots.

Vaulting largely disappeared as an equestrian sport after the Renaissance, only to reemerge in Europe as a youth sport in the 1950’s. Its popularity, especially in Germany, led to it becoming one of the fastest growing youth sports in Europe. Many European riding schools began offering classes to young aspiring riders. Even today many European coaches insist

that youngsters (and even oldsters) learn to vault before being allowed to take the reins in a riding lesson. Vaulting soon found its way to Canada led primarily by European coaches who immigrated here and brought the sport with them. Lessons were often integrated into Pony Club programs. In the early 1970’s Borge Olsen of Chilliwack founded the Equestrian Vaulting Association of BC, recognizing that enthusiasts of the sport needed to work together to build a solid foundation of coaching and competitive programs. BC became the first province in Canada to develop a coaching certification program, official vaulting rules and inter-club competitions. By the early 1990s as many as 100 youngsters were participating in the annual BC provincial championships.

Vaulting can be done competitively, or recreationally, by all ages – yes, not just the young, although youth and flexibility are evident at the elite competitive level. The sport in BC has now grown to over a dozen registered clubs, all operated by one of more certified provincial trainers. All clubs offer both recreational and competitive programs and many include adult recreational classes in their programs – a little aerobic workout while playing on a horse! It’s easy to see the appeal and, no, an adult does not have to be particularly fit or agile to have fun playing on a horse. Spandex is definitely not a requirement.

Vaulting horses come in all shapes and sizes. At the elite level, warm bloods and draft/warm blood crosses are very prevalent,

Article by Barb Schmidt


MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

but at the beginner and recreational levels you can find almost all breeds represented. Any calm, patient horse who enjoys hugs and attention from scores of young children is an ideal mount for this sport.

Although recreational programs abound, many enthusiasts of the sport enjoy the opportunity to engage in competition – and there are many opportunities each year to do so. Vaulting has a very gradual, progressive system for competition. Vaulters begin at walk, progressing through 3-4 levels at each gait as they develop their skills. Horse Council BC sanctioned shows provide an introduction to the competitive system and can lead to both the BC Heritage Games and BC Summer Games. The Equestrian Vaulting Association of BC organizes a provincial vaulting championship each season and hosts the Canadian national championships biannually. For elite vaulters BC hosts an international competition, known as a CVI (Concours de Voltige International) each year so that vaulters from this province have an opportunity to earn qualifying scores for both the Junior and Senior World Championships. Many BC vaulters have represented Canada at CVI and world championship events, including the World Equestrian Games.

In a vaulting competition athletes perform compulsory exercises and freestyle routines in individual, pairs (pas de deux) and team events. Team vaulting involves as many as three vaulters

on the horse at the same time – now that’s how to play well with others! The lunger guides the horse from the center of the circle and is considered part of the competitive unit of horse, vaulter and lunger. All three are scored separately and factor into the final score awarded for the class.

One of the many appeals of vaulting is that participants do not need to buy their own horse. In fact, few of them do. Horses and tack are typically owned by the coach which means this sport is accessible to anyone with a love for horses. Many vaulters come from city families who could never practically own a horse and yet, in this sport, they have access to both recreational and competitive programs. Vaulters can hone their skills and work their way right up to the World Equestrian Games even if they never have the opportunity to own horses.

Many of us have no option but to live in a city or suburbs for work, but that does not mean the next generation has no access to horse sport. Vaulting provides a unique pathway into the equestrian world – one that will help ensure that future generations have an opportunity to benefit from a relationship with horses. As Sir Winston Churchill famously said “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man”

Horse Council BC has facilitated Livestock Emergency response courses with expert technical instructors for fire, police and veterinarians. The sessions are fully funded by HCBC and offered to personnel as part of our mandate to improve horse welfare. The courses have proved to be very popular and it was realized through the process of training the value of ‘real–life’ hands on exercise.

Proper rescue training is not just about getting a horse out of trouble. A rescue must include the methods for the best possible outcome for the horse and the people involved. The safety of the crew and welfare of the horse are of vital importance.

But it is not practical to always use horses, especially for extrication and accident response. Recognizing this challenge,

the Maple Ridge Fire Department approached the Horse Council of BC (HCBC) proposing a collaboration to acquire a life-sized equine mannequin and cargo trailer for use by Fire Departments in our province.

“One of the services Maple Ridge Fire Department (MRFD) provides to the community is response to Large Animal Rescue. In preparation MRFD staff train on the principles and skill sets required for these rescues. Until recently, this training would occur at actual incidents, as a Large Animal Mannequin was not available for use” states Assistant Chief – Training & Safety Bryan Vinje. HCBC and the Equine Foundation of Canada funded the mannequin/trailer and MRFD will support logistics

/storage. “BC firefighters now have access to this equine mannequin for training in large animal rescue, reducing

www.hcbc.ca | 21

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

BC Emergency Responders Have A

New Piece Of Training Equipment

To Help BC Horses!

risk to firefighters and increasing animal safety.”

Thanks to a generous donation from the Equine Foundation of Canada, HCBC has purchased from Resquip United Kingdom a life sized equine

mannequin. This is the first one in BC that is available for emergency personnel to use for practical hands on training in the safe and humane extrication of horses. HCBC is thrilled to work with the support of Equine Foundation of Canada to enhance these training opportunities.

“On behalf of the Equine Foundation of Canada, we are very pleased and excited, as is the entire board, to be a part of this exciting venture”. Bob Watson, President and Pat Crema, B.C. Director who have been instrumental in the success of this project comment “We look forward to working with HCBC in the future and we want to thank HCBC for all the work to bring this opportunity to fruition.”

To support our members and aid in the welfare of BC’s horses the Horse Council BC board agreed to allocate a portion of the annual budget to a Disaster Relief fund for the purpose of but not limited to; education on emergency planning for our membership, training or local equine emergency coordinators province wide, facilitating communication and other linkages between local emergency coordinators and municipal emergency planners. The scope of this specific project fits within HCBC’s strategic plan and funds were released to pay for a cargo trailer to store and haul the mannequin to training sites for fire personnel anywhere in the province.

The Equine Foundation of Canada founded in 1983 is a Registered Charity with all donations being tax deductible and an official receipt is issued to the donor. The fundraising is carried out by dedicated volunteers across Canada and 100% of the donations are used to maintain the organization and the various programs. The purpose of the Foundation is to aid in the health and welfare of the horse with its programs being unbiased as to the breed of horse or area of the country.


Name The Horse Contest!

NAME HORSE COUNCIL BC’S NEW RESUCE MANNEQUIN!Our new horse mannequin didn’t come with a name so we are giving you the chance to name him! He’s a lifesize mannequin that will be used to help equine rescuers learn how to handle horses in emergency situations.

FACTS ABOUT THE HORSE:• Palomino in colour• Large white blaze• Stands about 16hh

HOW TO ENTER:• Send an e-mail with your name suggestions

to: [email protected]• Contest deadline - July 1st, 2016

Anyone is eligible to enter and can enter as many times as they would like during the duration of the contest! The name will be chosen by Horse Council BC Staff and the Winner will receive a free 2016 OR 2017 Individual HCBC Membership and a fun gift surprise!

The 2016 Census of Agriculture

Is On The Horizon!

www.hcbc.ca | 23

INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE

At the beginning of May 2016, Canadian farm operators will have the chance to take part in a national dialogue by completing the Census of Agriculture questionnaire.

Census of Agriculture data is the definitive source of community-level data. By drawing on this data, decision makers will be assured that they are acting in the interest of farmers, farm communities and agricultural operations.

Farm organizations are heavy users of census data and draw on this information to formulate policy recommendations, produce communications and outreach work, and conduct market development.

Regional, provincial and federal government policy advisors use Census of Agriculture data to help develop programs related to farm support and to evaluate the impact of natural disasters (such as floods, droughts and storms) on agriculture. This allows for a quick reaction when a natural disaster does occur.

CENSUS OF AGRICULTURE BENEFITS• Identifies trends and provides factual information on

emerging issues, opportunities and challenges within the agricultural community.Identifies trends and provides factual information on emerging issues, opportunities and challenges within the agricultural community.

• Covers a wide range of topics, such as land use, crops, livestock, agricultural labour, machinery and equipment, land management practices, and farm finances.

• Provides farmers, farm organizations, policy makers, stakeholders and citizens with relevant information about the future of the Canadian agricultural sector, and help them make informed decisions regarding agricultural practices in this country.

Support your community and complete your Census of Agriculture questionnaire in May 2016!

The Census can be completed by anyone who is responsible for, or knowledgeable about, the day-to-day management decisions of your farming operation. As required by the Statistics Act, the information you provide will be kept confidential and used only for statistical purposes.

For more information, please visit the Statistics Canada website (www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p2SV.pl?Function=getSurvey&SDDS=3438)

Biosecurity:Why Is It So Important?

Biosecurity planning helps to ensure that practices routinely carried out on your farm are beneficial to your horses health. By adopting the guidelines Horse Council BC has posted under the Equine Welfare section of the HCBC website (www.hcbc.ca) and working with a veterinarian, you can play a significant role in keeping your horses and your industry as healthy as possible.

WHAT IS BIOSECURITY?Biosecurity: Measures that prevent the introduction and spread of contagious diseases.

ESSENTIAL BASICSControl movements of people, animals, equipment and vehicles:• Into a designated zone,• Out of a designated zone, • Between the designated zones.

This can be done through the use of controlled access points.

Get more detailed information about proper biosecurity procedures on a farm online at: www.hcbc.ca


COACHES CORNER

The Sino-Japanese word “kaizen” simply means “change for better”, with no inherent meaning of either “continuous” or “philosophy” in Japanese dictionaries or in everyday use. The word refers to any improvement, one-time or continuous, large or small, in the same sense as the English word “improvement”.

Equine Canada Certified Coaches and Instructors are required to submit proof of continued learning and improvement of their coaching skills to remain “current”. This requirement is mandated by Equine Canada Policy, but this is also a requirement from the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC). Coaches from 67 different sports in Canada are required to submit proof of continued Learning to their Provincial Organizations and the CAC.

Coaches and Instructors in general attend far more Professional Development events than they are required to. Keeping up to date with trends, theory or advanced practices helps the coach to become a better teacher and as such, provides an opportunity for their students to embrace Kaizen. Advances have been made in learning theory, both human and horse. Tried and true methods of teaching and training that are safe and effective are always part of a coach’s skill set. They can refresh their skills by riding at and auditing clinics from the “masters”.

Every horseperson can embrace the theory of Kaizen. Working

with a coach or instructor who constantly learns is a step in the right direction. Due to BC’s geographic size and challenges, it can be difficult for some members to find a Certified Coach or Instructor. The reality is that for some members in BC access to coaching is a challenge, but there are many other methods that can be used. There is a huge amount of educational videos available on DVDs and in online instructional material. HCBC has free online courses and short videos that any member can take advantage of. Many clubs hold educational events for their members as well.

In my opinion, there is nothing that can replace a good book. A book these days can be electronic and you can read it on your e-reader, however nothing changes the fact that books are awesome learning tools. Access to books can be done through the library, online, your local horse club, and many other sources. The vast range of titles and subjects available will suit every horse persons needs.

Never discount learning from a person who has years of experience! They might not be certified by a governing body but their knowledge can be hard to match. Ask questions! It is also likely that they will tell you that they learn something new every day. Vets and Farriers are also valuable resources for their clients.

Parents can and should learn as much as possible about the care, feeding and health of the horses they or their kids own and ride. Guidance is required so horse owners can provide adequate care for the health and wellbeing of the horses. Call HCBC for a copy of the “Code of Practice” and start the learning journey with knowing the minimum standards of care for our equine friends.

Manufacturers are also always continually improving their safety equipment such as helmets and vests. This practice of Kaizen benefits everyone. We should also embrace what is available to protect us or our children when riding. Wear a hard hat when you ride or drive a horse. No one wants the learning experiences that stem from a traumatic brain injury.

The conclusion is that the theory of Kaizen is applicable to everyone. Every time we think we have seen it all or know it all, horses will continue to surprise us. Horses will present a mystery lameness, a refusal to canter on the right rein or have strange bumps all over their body and we have to figure out what it is and what to do. By constantly expanding our knowledge, looking for answers, seeking help and guidance, riders, horse owners, coaches and instructors are embracing the theory of Kaizen.

Coaches, Riders& The Theory of Kaizen


www.hcbc.ca | 25

COMPETITION

WHAT IS THE BC HERITAGE PROGRAM?

The BC Heritage program is designed to promote and encourage participation in local competitions at an affordable and accessible competition program. Competitors of all ages and skill levels can qualify at local sanctioned competitions throughout the provincial zones to

qualify to attend the Provincial Championships held annually the first weekend of July. The qualifying season begins on June 26th of the previous year, and ends June 25th of the current year. Cash prize money and awards will be offered for all levels and divisions at the Championships. Qualifying competitions are listed by discipline divisions on the HCBC website under Competition Dates identified as “BCHeritageQualifier”. The BC Heritage Championships offers $10,000.00 in prize money! In addition, travel assistance grants are provided for exhibitors who qualify and travel over 500 km return to attend the Championships.

To qualify for the 2016 BC Heritage Championships – competitors must compete at a minimum of two (2) BC Heritage Qualifier competitions from June 25, 2015 to June 25, 2016. NO LOGBOOKS are required! Qualified competitors must list 2 Qualifier shows attended on the BC Heritage Championship Entry Form, including Name, Date, and Location, attended from the current Qualifying period. They may then enter any of the divisions or classes offered at the BC Heritage Circuit Championship.

WHY SHOULD YOUR SHOW BE A BC HERITAGE QUALIFYING COMPETITION?By participating in the BC Heritage Program as a qualifying competition you will help to support grassroots rider development in a fun, safe and affordable environment. Your show will have the opportunity to increase entries by marketing and exposure on the HCBC website and forums. Qualifying competitions draw in additional competitors eager to compete at the BC Heritage Provincial Championships.

NEW IN 2016! Two new classes have been added to the lineup for the 2016 BC Heritage Championships!

• HCBC Mini Prix with $500 of additional prize money,• 40km Open Endurance Ride.

Horse Council BC would also like to introduce the brand new logos for the BC Heritage Championships and the BC Heritage Circuit!

Remember to keep your eye out for the brand new BC Heritage T-shirts available in limited quantities before (online at: store.hcbc.ca) and during the 2016 BC Heritage Championships July 8, 9, 10, 2016 at Maple Ridge Equisport Centre.


BC Heritage CircuitQualifier

HAVE YOU SENT IN YOUR DECLARATION TO COMPETE IN THE BC SUMMER GAMES?

BE PART OF THE EQUESTRIAN TEAM AT THE 2016 BC SUMMER GAMES IN ABBOTSFORD!

QUALIFY FOR THE BC SUMMER GAMES AT LOCAL QUALIFIER SHOWS AROUND THE PROVINCE FROM NOW UNTIL JUNE 2016

JULY 21 - 24, 2016 - ABBOTSFORD FAIRGROUNDS DRESSAGE - PARA-DRESSAGE - JUMPING - VAULTING

Team Age: A minimum of 11 years of age and a maximum of 18 years of age as of January 1, 2016.Zone Team Composition: 4 Athletes per zone - 8 Zones in total.Wildcards: 16 wildcard spotsMaximum Athletes: 48

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE BC SUMMER GAMES, VISIT WWW.HCBC.CA

Horse Council BC 27336 Fraser Hwy., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3N5 tf: 1.800.345.8055 p: 604.856.4304 f: 604.856.4302


www.hcbc.ca | 27

TRAILS & RECREATION

Protect YourTrailsWith spring finally here, you may be starting to plan your days out on the trail. What a privilege it is to be able to enjoy both your equine companion and your beautiful community or back country at the same time! But what if that community has plans to stop you from taking your horse out on the trail?

Quite often, for seemingly unknown reasons, governments will decide to deny access to horses on trails where horses used to be allowed. Their reasons are varied and often made using information and input from only a few groups, leaving them with less than all the information needed to make an unbiased decision.

How can we as equestrians make sure horses are considered in future plans? It all comes down to building respect and relationships. When the Land Managers sit down to draft their new Management Plan, horses should be at the front of their mind in the most positive light.

LEARN ABOUT YOUR LOCAL TRAILSFind out the history of the trail. Have horses always been allowed access? Was the trail a route for industry via horseback/carriage? Who used to use the trail, and why? Historical access can be an important part of keeping a trail open to horses, so the more you know, the better you’re able to defend your right to ride there.

ESTABLISH A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LAND OWNEREvery trail sits on someone’s land. If it’s on public land, you’ll want to contact your city hall to find out if the trail is on Municipal or Provincial land. You can also contact Front Counter BC (www.frontcounterbc.gov.bc.ca) to find out information including land ownership, tenures, and whether or not the trail is registered through them. By building a relationship with the people in City Council, BC Parks, and Recreation Sites & Trails, you can be assured that they’ll think of you when they start planning for any upgrades to their Management Plan. If you see that there was some maintenance done on your favorite trail, why not give the land owners a call or shoot them an email to thank them? If you have ideas or suggestions, perhaps let them know. Does the trail need some maintenance work? If you’re part of a club, it might make a good impression to work with the land owners and your club to arrange for work bees, where the club will lend volunteers to help with simple maintenance. This will keep you in touch with the staff, and help to show that equestrians are an important and helpful user group. For back country trails, it might be harder to coordinate these activities, but it’ll be worth it to have continued access.

ESTABLISH A RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER TRAIL USERSIf a trail is used by many different trail groups, why not get to know them a bit. See about going to any meetings for other trail users. Bring along some materials for them on sharing trails with horses. Perhaps arrange for people to meet a horse and learn how to interact with them on the trail. Maybe hold work bees with volunteers from every user group to make sure the trail stays in tip-top condition. Find out what the other trail users need as far as interaction goes and make sure to spread the word to other equestrians out there. By using common courtesy and proper trail etiquette, you can give other trail users a positive experience and encourage support from non-equestrian trail users.

READ THE MANAGEMENT PLANSTo keep horses on the trails it’s important to stay informed. You don’t necessarily have to attend every city council meeting or public input period, but you might consider checking their agendas to see what they plan to discuss. Make sure to check the local paper and the city, BC Parks, & Recreation Sites & Trails websites to see if there are any notices posted. If they’re reviewing or updating a Management Plan, make sure to read the fine print. There may be a small snippet buried in there about a trail they’re considering paving. Use your computer’s “Find” feature to search for key words such as “horse,” “equestrian,” or “equine.” That may make reading through the document a little less intimidating.

PARTICIPATE IN PUBLIC INPUT PERIODSWhen the government is ready to hear public input about their plans, make sure the equine community is a large voice. Encourage your club members, local stables, feed & tack stores, and anywhere else you can think of to speak up about the contributions equestrians make in the community, to the trail, and to the well-being of local citizens. Incorrect assumptions about riding are often made by those not familiar with the economic and health benefits of riding a horse and so horse access may be thought of as less important than other physical activities. Let them know why that trail is important to you and other riders.

The best way to keep a trail open is to stay informed and connected. Horse Council BC can help to connect active equestrians to areas of concern and we can lend our voice of support as well, but we depend on people at the local level to let us know what’s happening across the province. The more voices speaking on behalf of equestrian access, the better the chances are to save your trails.

bc's equine lifestyle - spring/summer 2016

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