Latest from Horse & Hound in Katie-jerram-hunnable

‘The brightest spark I’ve ever trained’: Hickstead championship for horse bred by The late Queen, owned by The King

Bethan Simons — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:47:52 +0000

Katie Jerram Hunnable and The King’s “phenomenal” First Receiver added another title to their incredible tally: the 2026 Hickstead Derby Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) champion sash.

“He was absolutely on song,” said Katie. “He didn’t put a foot out of place the whole time he was in the ring – there wasn’t a moment that he wasn’t on form.”

This is the second time that Katie has lifted this title.

“I won for the first time on Barbers Shop for Her late Majesty The Queen, bred by the late Queen Mother, which was very, very special,” Katie said, “And then today I won on First Receiver, bred by The late Queen and this time owned by The King.

“He was reserve champion last year and he went that one bit better this year, which was my dream.”

Now nine years old, “Firsty” and Katie have amassed an enviable tally, topped off by the 2026 Hickstead Derby RoR champion title.

“He’s amazing. He’s done the grand slam. He’s won at Horse of the Year Show, won the novices and opens and stood champion at Aintree and now he’s won here. He’s also been Royal Windsor champion twice under saddle, and three times in hand.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he can achieve as a riding horse, but would love for him to go supreme at Aintree as a former racehorse. It’s one more box I’d love to tick with him.”

Katie went on to explain that Firsty needs careful production on account of his intelligence.

“He’s the most intelligent horse I have ever had. All thoroughbreds are intelligent, but he’s super-intelligent and comes from a very intelligent family. You have to make sure you don’t do anything wrong as he won’t forgive you. He’s the brightest spark I’ve ever trained.”

Giving his owner-rider a special early birthday present was Tori Thomas’ Wonga Swinger, Tattersalls RoR amateur ridden show series champion here for the third time.

The multi-garlanded duo are also former HOYS winners and reigning RoR ridden champions at Royal Windsor. They have also stepped successfully into the riding horse ranks, having won the amateur riding horses at the Royal International Horse Show last term, and recently booked a return pass to HOYS in the large riding horse division at Royal Three Counties show.

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‘I’m sure she’s up there watching’: horse bred by The late Queen and owned by Queen Camilla wins at Windsor

Millie Bowles — Thu, 14 May 2026 16:16:35 +0000

A horse bred by The late Queen with almost £130,000 in winnings claimed the Tattersalls Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) open in-hand championship on the opening morning of the 2026 Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Chris Hunnable led Reach For The Moon (Moon) to victory in a hotly contested class for former National Hunt horses en route to the championship.

The seven-year-old is now owned by Queen Camilla, and Chris said to win with him at Royal Windsor was extra special.

“It’s very sad that she [The late Queen] is not here to see it but I’m sure she’s up there watching him,” he said.

“The build-up for Windsor for us is quite a lot of pressure; we obviously don’t want to let the royal family down. We’re very proud and want to do as best as we can, so a win in our first class is brilliant.”

Moon, trained by John Gosden and Jeremy Snowden, ran 43 times over the flat and hurdles and won nine times.

His last race was in July 2025 at Uttoxeter, and he went to Chris and Katie Jerram-Hunnable the next month.

“He’s taken to the show ring really well,” Chris said. “Katie’s been riding him under saddle in some hack classes and RoR classes and he’s picked up a few wins and seconds.”

Away from the ring, Chris said Moon is an “adorable character”.

“He’s a yard favourite; he’s just such a lovely horse. The day before yesterday, he was nuzzling the cat who jumped up on to his windowsill. He’s a lovely person.

“He grew a bit today with the atmosphere – I think it was the white railings and green grass as most of our prep shows have been in arenas or on sand. But he got better and better as the class went on.”

Reserve in the championship went to Charlene Smith’s Golden Horn eight-year-old Star Caliber, handled by Barry Smith, winners of the Tattersalls RoR open in-hand class for flat horses.

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Do you want to buy a horse to show side-saddle? This guide will help you on your search for the right mount…

Alex Robinson — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 07:30:07 +0000

A ladies’ horse for the show ring has a niche set of requirements, so if you’re looking to buy a side-saddle horse for this season or for some time in the future, then our guide is a must-read.

What is riding side-saddle?

Side-saddle is a style of riding that requires the rider to sit with both legs to one side of the saddle, rather than astride. Traditionally, side-saddle riding was undertaken by women out hunting, hence the word ladies’ being used when referring to side-saddle showing classes. Sitting sideways allowed a woman to ride a horse while also wearing a long dress.

Compared to riding astride, a side-saddle rider sits further back and on more top of the horse with both legs positioned to one side. Many riders carry a cane to use as a guide, support and to give signals to the horse on the offside, and have a longer length of rein.

Many showing classes permit side-saddle riders and there are also a host of sections and shows specifically for enthusiasts, such as the National Side-Saddle Association championships. On the showing circuit, the most prestigious classes to win are the ladies’ show hunter final at the Royal International (RIHS) and the ladies’ show horse of the year at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Many riders choose to ride sideways and there are many opportunities to give it a go aside from in the show ring. Hunting and dressage are disciplines where you may spot side-saddle riders.

Will my current horse do side-saddle?

Katie Jerram-Hunnable has ridden many top side-saddle horses during her career. She was supreme at HOYS in 2010 with the ladies’ champion Dunbeacon.

Katie advises that if you have a younger horse that has never carried a side-saddle before, then it is not a given that the horse will take to it.

“While you can often predict if a horse is going to carry a side-saddle due to their stamp and how they are put together, sometimes they just don’t like the feel of it,” Katie says. “In this instance I would not push it; it’s a big heavy saddle and it can provide a feeling that not every horse will cope with.”

What qualities should I look for in a side-saddle horse?

“A good ladies’ horse should not be so big that it’s possibly intimidating,” Katie continues. “For me, an ideal stamp would be somewhere between a large riding horse and a lightweight hunter, and in years gone by, the top ladies’ rides were lovely thoroughbred horses.”

Conformation, like in any type of show horse, is key, as Katie explains: “You want a nice shoulder, a good length of rein and somewhere for the saddle to sit comfortably on the back. For the ladies’ job, I would avoid a horse that is too tall – it will be difficult for the judge to get on – or something with flat withers. I would also avoid a horse with choppy striding, an upside down neck or an excessively straight shoulder. If the horse had plenty of length through the ribs that would be preferable to a horse that was shorter and more butty in its body.

“Temperament wise, you want a horse that is trainable, and also not cold backed in the slightest,” Katie adds. “Side-saddle horses have to cope with a lot; you only have one leg, using a stick as the other, so they do need to be relatively easy going, though they can learn and improve with consistent training. I like a horse with a good mouth for this job; when I’m ride judging I like to be able to take a contact. We don’t want something that holds itself too high or won’t take the rein forward, we are looking for an even and soft feel in the contact.”

How much should I expect to pay?

Horses vary in price depending on many factors such as competition record, breeding, age, temperament and experience, as well as the situation of the seller. As a ladies’ horse will likely have a sound temperament and usually takes a side-saddle as a secondary job, they can fetch higher prices.

“I would expect to pay between £15,000 and £30,000 for a good ladies’ horse with a nice temperament and quality conformation,” says Katie. “That is quite a large window, but an open horse or something that is at least up and running in a side-saddle would be in demand.”

Where should I look?

Side-saddle horses will be advertised at various times in the season on online platforms, via private sellers and professional horse dealers. Horses are sometimes sold via word of mouth.

Katie has introduced many horses to a side-saddle herself, though she says this is not something to introduce during a viewing: “If someone came to view a horse that had never taken a side-saddle before and asked if it could be ridden in one on the day, I would say no, even if they thought it to be the ideal stamp for the job. This would be your responsibility once you got the horse home and had gotten used to him astride. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so don’t rush this process.”

I’ve agreed to buy a horse, now what?

When you have agreed on a sale, it is time to organise a pre-purchase vetting, something that is strongly recommended.

The vet will assess the horse with the specific job you want it for in mind, so it’s important to let the vet know prior to the vetting that your main goal is to ride side-saddle. If you tell the vet that you want the horse for the show ring, they should hopefully inform you of any blemishes or conformational faults which could impact its future career, even if they don’t impact its soundness or performance.

“I would never sell a horse without a vetting being done, and I would never buy a horse without a vetting certificate, either,” says Katie. “A five-stage would be preferable for an open show horse.”

For more information, you can read H&H’s ultimate guide to buying a horse.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the season, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Effortless elegance (or so it seems): refine your side-saddle skills to glide to the top of the ladies’ show horse line-up

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Effortless elegance (or so it seems): refine your side-saddle skills to glide to the top of the ladies’ show horse line-up

Alex Robinson — Mon, 19 May 2025 08:24:41 +0000

The ideal ladies’ show horse should exhibit a seamless combination of manners, correct way of going, impeccable turnout, and the all-important presence. The overall impression must be one of elegance personified. The rider, too, is expected to be in perfect harmony with her horse, who should then carry the ride judge through the gears with effortless poise and minimal prompting.

When riding side-saddle, the rider sits with both legs to one side – the left – of the horse. This style of riding, once developed to allow women to ride while wearing long skirts or dresses, has its roots in the hunting field. Today, side-saddle continues to grow in popularity, both in and out of the show ring, as riders seek to expand their horses’ skill sets while honouring centuries-old traditions and challenging themselves in the saddle.

Preparing a horse for side-saddle classes is a considerable undertaking, not least because of the emphasis placed on impeccable manners. While minor indiscretions may be forgiven in other classes, the ladies’ horse must be the epitome of calmness and composure — an exemplary, sensible partner at all times.

You’ll commonly find two main side-saddle classes in showing schedules: ladies’ show hunter, open exclusively to hunter types, and ladies’ show horse, which allows all suitable show horses capable of carrying a side-saddle. At Horse of the Year Show, the final is open to all types of show horse, whereas the ladies’ championship at the Royal International Horse Show is restricted to hunters.

That winning feeling: Jayne Ross and Time 2 Reflect take the supreme title at Horse of the Year Show in 2018. (Image credit: Benjamin Clark Photography)

The leading organisation for the discipline is the Side Saddle Association, which hosts events across the year and stages an annual championship, featuring a packed schedule of classes catering to all levels.

Ladies’ show horse classes: the experts and their stars

If you’re planning to introduce your horse to side-saddle this season, the following tips, courtesy of two of the circuit’s most consistent ladies’ show horse contenders, are sure to provide valuable guidance.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable is one of the circuit’s most respected and successful show horse professionals. Over the years, she has produced numerous champion ladies’ show horses, including the legendary Dunbeacon, who stood supreme at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2010, and also claimed the supreme title at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) during his illustrious career.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable riding Stardust, owned by The late Queen. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

In addition to her accomplishments in the ring, Katie is a qualified judge and a dedicated trainer of side-saddle riders. She has mentored many talented jockeys on their path to success in the ladies’ ranks.

Despite his glittering record, Dunbeacon posed his fair share of challenges, as Katie recalls: “He was cold-backed. He came to side-saddle later in his career and, while he became the most beautiful ladies’ ride, I often worried about getting on him at the start.

“To manage this, I always rode him astride to warm him up. Then, we’d put the side-saddle on, and I’d mount him in a safe environment.”

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston has a long-standing passion for ladies’ show horse classes. Among her most famed horses is the versatile Tudor Minstrel, a dual lightweight and ladies’ hunter who claimed both of his respective finals at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2012.

In 2017, Jenna also took top honours in the RIHS ladies’ final aboard Rehy Horizon, adding to an impressive record that includes multiple wins at major county shows, both astride and riding side-saddle.

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston and Rehy Horizon. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

A respected panel judge, Jenna has officiated at many of the sport’s leading championships. Though she works within the equestrian industry, showing remains very much her passion and her hobby.

Despite his eventual stardom, Tudor Minstrel – known as Billy at home – was never expected to reach such heights.

“I still bring up Dad’s first-ever quote about Billy today: ‘You’ll never do any good with that horse,’” Jenna says.

“We struggled at the beginning, as we were both learning together. We began in the SEIB Search for a Star series and worked our way up through the ranks. Someone once told me that in showing, you have to do your apprenticeship – and that was definitely true in my case. I started at the bottom and kept going. Eventually, we achieved the things we did, but it’s a hard game to be successful in.”

Tips for ladies show horse classes

1. What should I look for in a ladies’ show horse?

“A fantastic attitude, a super mouth, and a natural place for the saddle to sit on the back,” Katie begins.

“I prefer a horse that lifts into the contact for ladies’ classes. If the horse is slightly above the bit or tends to go onto the forehand, it can be much harder to position them correctly when riding side-saddle.”

Katie stresses that, while most horses can be trained to carry a side-saddle with time and patience, it’s crucial to ensure the horse is mature enough.

“I’d recommend they be older than around seven,” she advises. “This ensures their back is mature enough, and they’re also likely to have the mental capacity to handle it. It’s an extraordinary feeling for a horse to have the rider sitting to one side.”

Jenna adds: “The horse must take you forwards, and it must be comfortable to ride. It should be easy to ride and well-schooled. That said, the side-saddle schooling always comes by training them correctly from the start – before you even put the saddle on. They should be straight, but also able to bend without falling in or working crookedly.”

“Also,” Jenna adds, “if you’re looking to start your horse in a side-saddle, do ensure they are physically mature enough.”

2. Getting to grips with the stick

When riding side-saddle, the rider does not have the use of their right leg, so they carry a stick that replaces the function of the leg.

“You must get your horse used to the stick acting as the leg, and it can take time for them to accept it,” Katie explains. “You use the stick in conjunction with your leg, and it can be tricky to initially get to grips with.”

A stick is carried in the right hand to replace the leg. Credit Peter Nixon (Image credit: creditUnknown)

On the left rein, due to the lack of an outside leg, the horse can fall in through the shoulder and become crooked to the inside.

“I ride exercises such as shallow loops and shoulder-in to work on flexion and straightness,” Katie continues. “Your stick acts as your right leg would during these exercises. I never ask for too much when I’m training, though; work should never be too intense. Sitting sideways can be a strange feeling for a horse initially.

“Keep everything simple, smooth, and soft, and gauge whether the horse is enjoying it. I would initially ride side-saddle once per week, gradually building up to twice. It’s a different pressure, so they need time to adjust.”

3. Legging up

“Ensure you have a good legger-upper, especially in the beginning,” Katie advises. “You need someone who will lift you cleanly and efficiently, so you don’t upset the horse.

“In the early stages, I’d find a strong legger-upper to pop you on, with someone standing at the horse’s head so you have someone there while you get yourself into the right position in the saddle.”

“Never get legged up with your stick in your hand,” Katie adds. “It should be handed to you from the correct side – the off-side of the horse – once you’re in position on top.”

Show producer Hannah Horton highlights the importance of training your horse to also stand quietly for the judge to mount in the ring.

“Make sure your horse will stand for the judge while they get on,” Hannah says. “So many horses swing away from the judge while they’re trying to get on. This can be because riders don’t practice getting legged on, but when you’re in the ring, the judge will always have a leg-up, so your horse must get used to it.”

4. Correct attire

Katie emphasises that the turnout of the rider is one of the key elements of ladies’ show horse classes.

“Ladies’ side-saddle is all about the whole picture being elegant, so this includes exceptional turnout of both horse and rider,” she says. “Ensure you have the correct length of habit and stick, the correct colour gloves, a correct spur on the left side, and that you’ve dressed appropriately for the class, the show you’re attending, and the time of day (whether daytime or evening wear).

“A lady should wear a bowler hat with a shirt and tie in the mornings and a cream stock and top hat with a veil safely secured and pinned back in the afternoons. Some shows and societies insist on safety hats so do check the rules prior to attending.”

Evening dress consists of a cream stock and top hat with a veil. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Always have a handler to dress you and hand you your stick from the off-side.

“Always check the girth is properly secure, too, before starting work. Have your handler check the saddle stays straight as you walk off.”

5. Crookedness during the ride

Jenna’s pet hate when judging is a lack of straightness.

“You can tell as soon as you get on if a horse is crooked or not; the horse will come out of the line-up like a wiggly worm,” she begins. “As soon as you ask the horse to walk off, you want them to walk in a straight line. If they do, they tend to transition into the trot well, and then into canter.

“Basically, if a horse is straight, they generally give a good ride.”

To fix crookedness, Jenna advises working on a circle to get the horse to bend equally on each rein. Practising on the right rein is essential for ladies’ combinations, as the rider does not have the benefit of an outside leg.

“Pop onto a 10m circle and work into a rhythmical trot, using your schooling whip in place of your left leg,” Jenna explains. “Ask for canter and use your schooling whip as a leg aid to encourage the horse to really use their hind leg underneath them. Bring them back to trot, re-establish and repeat.

“These types of exercises improve straightness, but also get the horse to listen to you.”

Katie adds: “When starting out always have a pair of eyes on the ground to make sure you and the saddle are central and straight on the horse through the paces.”

6. Poorly fitting tack

Finding the right side-saddle for your horse can be a challenge, but Jenna emphasises how important it is to do your homework and ask for advice when searching for a saddle.

“Often, the saddles don’t sit correctly because they tend to tip over to the left; they’re not balanced, and you can feel yourself slipping to that side,” she explains.

“Get a saddle-fitter who knows about side-saddles to come and see your horse. I know how hard finding the right saddle can be; we really struggled to find one for Billy as he changed shape so much during his career. Then it was flocked incorrectly, causing him discomfort around his withers. Now, I always go to the same saddle-fitter whom I trust and rely on.

“A lot of side-saddles are also very old – I have two saddles made in the 1920s. But the horses we ride today are so different from those of the early 1900s. They’re much wider and chunkier in build, while the saddles from that time were narrower, with the gullet sitting more on the spine.

“New saddles are best, but they are very expensive, especially when made to measure.”

Master saddler Clare Barnett, who is not only a saddle fitter for side-saddle and astride, but one of the few creators of new side-saddles. Finding the right side-saddle is often a challenge. (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

Katie agrees: “The older saddles are narrow and don’t often fit our bigger and broader horses of today. The saddle should sit nicely behind the horse’s shoulder, and you must consider whether it’s comfortable for them.

“Work with an experienced saddle-fitter – the Side-Saddle Association can likely recommend someone.”

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Train your riding horse to be a champion in the show ring with these 5 simple steps

10 training tips that top riders swear by

Aimi Clark — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 12:50:56 +0000

Even leading names like Laura Tomlinson, Francis Whittington and Katie Jerram-Hunnable look up to people, and key pieces of training advice have helped them win medals and national titles. Here are the tips from the H&H archives that 10 top riders credit with putting them on the road to success.

1. Laura Tomlinson, dressage rider

“The best piece of advice I’ve had is never to say, ‘I can’t’ or ‘The horse won’t’. If you have this in mind it forces you to look around and through a problem, rather than accept it’s not solvable. This is an adaptation of what I’m used to hearing from [German Olympian turned trainer] Klaus Balkenhol — he won’t ever accept you saying you can’t.”

2. Trevor Breen, showjumper

“If at first you don’t succeed — work harder! The more effort you put in, the more you get out. If you take shortcuts in training during the week, it’ll show when you’re competing at the weekend.”

3. Katie Jerram-Hunnable, showing producer

“Never use a gadget as a quick fix. I learnt this from [renowned trainer] Ruth McMullen — I never saw a gadget at her yard. I use a martingale on horses I’m starting for a little extra security, and I may hack the babies in one.”

4. Francis Whittington, eventer

“Just keep it simple in every way. If it’s complicated, it’s probably not right. [Former British World Class Performance showjumping manager] Rob Hoekstra told me this and I keep it in mind all the time.”

5. Gemma Stevens, eventer and showjumper

“My mum used to make me ride come rain or shine. She said that consistency is the key to good training and it is something I have always carried with me. Horses need to have regular training and you need to be consistent in what you are asking them to do.”

6. Anna Ross, dressage rider

“[German Olympic team gold medallist] Ulla Salzgeber once told me that if you keep your hands still, you’ll start using your legs. A wise man at Goresbridge Sales also once advised me, ‘Never get back on for a third time’.”

7. Geoff Billington, showjumper

“[Multi-medalled British showjumper] David Broome told me years ago that you can’t put pressure on top of tension. So you must have a relaxed horse before you can ask any questions of it.”

8. Dan Jocelyn, eventer

“When I first came to the UK in 1995, I stayed with Andrew Nicholson. Walking courses with him was invaluable. He said: ‘Dan, across country you just go between the flags’ and when showjumping, ‘Just leave the poles up’. This was the best advice ever, especially when others were trying to overcomplicate things. I always enjoy walking courses with him.”

9. Andrew Gould, dressage rider

“Don’t let your personal issues or emotions get in the way. This is something I picked up from [top trainer] David Hunt and I realise its importance even more now that I train lots of people. It’s hard if you’ve had a busy, stressful day at work — you want to ride to relax, but sometimes it is easier said than done.”

10. Jessica Mendoza, showjumper

“Don’t try to win every class. My father, Paul, told me this and there are two lessons I have learnt from it. First, if I’m jumping at a three-day show, I need to save the horse for the class that really matters. Second, if you try to win a class by three seconds, you will often have a fence down and lose. So be cool and just do enough.”

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Two early Royal Windsor championships for The King’s top show horse

Alex Robinson — Thu, 02 May 2024 13:45:13 +0000

The ex-racehorse First Receiver provided The King with a double championship victory on day one of the 2024 Royal Windsor Horse Show as he was crowned 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand champion, as well as Tattersalls thoroughbred ridden show horse series champion.

The seven-year-old gelding began his Windsor campaign when handled to perfection by Chris Hunnable, who produces the horse for the show ring alongside his wife, H&H columnist Katie Jerram-Hunnable, who took the reins less than two hours later to score the victory in ridden ranks.

Katie rode First Receiver to glory in the Racehorse to Riding Horse championship at the Horse of the Year Show in 2021, his first appearance at the prestigious final in his debut season. He was previously owned by his breeder, The Queen, and he qualified for HOYS in 2021 at Burghley Horse Trials, becoming her Majesty’s final show ring winner before she died.

First Receiver is by New Approach and during his time in racing he was trained by Sir Michael Stoute. He has only been very lightly shown and he was last seen at Royal Windsor under-saddle in 2022 when he was just a novice.

“I’ve never galloped him like that before, but I knew I had to go for it,” commented Katie, as she left the ridden championship. “He was just awesome today. I had a really bad ride on him here last year; he was very worried and nervous about everything, so we’ve given him a year out for both him and I to mentally process everything. I came here today with a lot of anticipation and I hope this proves to people that even if you have a wobble, never give up on your ambitions; it was my dream to win this on him, and he’s only gone and done a double-whammy.”

Reserve in the 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand championship was Star Caliber, handled by his owner Barry Smith, who had finished second in the flat section behind First Receiver. This Golden Horn six-year-old ran 19 times during his career, winning once in 2020 at Goodwood.

Joining the flat horses in the 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand championship were the top two exhibits from the national hunt division, Kelly Morgan’s Top Wood, a Kotky Bleu 17-year-old handled by Jasean Spraggett, and Sophie Staveley’s Burnieboozle, a nine-year-old by Frozen Power.

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Which of The King’s show horses are to compete at the 2023 Royal Windsor Horse Show?

Alex Robinson — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 11:15:53 +0000

The producers of The King’s show horses and native ponies have revealed which animals they will be competing at the 2023 Royal Windsor Horse Show (11 – 14 May)

The King took ownership of The late Queen’s home-bred show horses and ponies after her death last September.

Show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable has four of The King’s horses heading to Windsor this year, including last year’s Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse champion, First Receiver. The six-year-old was the first of The Queen’s home-breds to take a championship title at HOYS. He will be competing in the thoroughbred ridden show series qualifier on Thursday.

Katie will also ride seven-year-old Fools Paradise in the small riding horse class on Saturday, while last year’s reserve in-hand coloured champion Sunbeam will contest the ridden coloured classes on the first day of the show.

Daydream, already a three-time Royal Windsor victor, as a ridden sport horse and an intermediate show riding type, will return to the show as a large hack on Friday.

“This year will be so different, and there will be an air of sadness without The Queen’s presence, but I am proud to present this lovely team of horses while supporting the royal family,” said Katie. “I’m hopeful for a very exciting year with The King’s horses. I owe a lot of my career to The Queen, and to her former stud groom Terry Pendry, without whom I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

The Queen’s native pony producer Lizzie Finlayson-Briant, M&M supreme in-hand champion last year with Highland pony mare Balmoral Leia, is debuting The King’s two-year-old Fell pony colt Balmoral Firework in the in-hand breed classes.

“I also have Carltonlima Emma’s granddaughter on the team. She won’t be going to Windsor, but she’s waiting in the wings at home,” Lizzie told H&H. “She’s only four and we’re not going to rush her.”

Kinvara Garner, two-time Royal Windsor part-bred champion with The Queen’s Whalton Highwayman in previous years, will also be appearing at the show riding novice hack contender Debonair II.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

‘The Queen wanted a home-bred to win at HOYS… and I’ve done it’: SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse champion crowned

Alex Robinson — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 17:04:04 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable could not hold back the tears as she was called forward to take the 2022 SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse championship on the first day of the 2022 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), riding The King’s five-year-old First Receiver.

Previously owned by his breeder, The Queen, First Receiver qualified for HOYS at Burghley Horse Trials and was Her Majesty’s final show ring winner before she died.

“When I first rode for Her Majesty 20 years ago she said she wanted to win HOYS with a home-bred, and I’ve finally done it for her,” said an emotional Katie, who has finished runner-up at HOYS for The Queen on four different occasions. “I, like the rest of the world, was so upset when Her Majesty passed away. She had so much passion for horses, and the one thing she wanted to do was to win here with a horse she bred. I was so nervous before the class due to the anticipation; I just wanted to do the job properly for her.”

The New Approach bay gelding has been out of racing training for 18 months. He was trained by Sir Michael Stoute and has won five out of seven outings this season in the show ring.

“We were looking for well-mannered rides, which were light in the hand and the champion delivered,” said ride judge Magnus Nicholson. “To get these horses to perform here is an amazing achievement, especially considering the pressure of the atmosphere and given the size of the arena. It’s asking a lot of them.”

Second place in the 2022 SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse final was another five-year-old, Tracey Bailey riding her own and Chris Graham’s Debt Of Honour, who was also in training with Sir Michael Stoute. By Kyllachy, the bay gelding qualified for HOYS at Onley Equestrian Centre.

Sarah Gwilliam and Sar Cassidy-Hill’s Imperial Ruby posted third.

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Don’t miss a second of the action from HOYS on HorseandHound.co.uk with no limit on how much you can read from as little as £1 per week with a Horse & Hound unlimited website subscription. Join now. Plus enjoy our full 22-page HOYS magazine report, including in-depth analysis of all the showing and showjumping, plus exclusive comments, on sale Thursday 13 October.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable: ‘It’s going to be a difficult time’

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 08:00:20 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable on why astronomical living costs will change the way we compete

Our first show of the season was the Wiltshire Spring Show held at West Wilts Equestrian Centre (26–27 March), and while it was a long way for us to travel it was well worth the journey. The venue was superb and the show itself was greatly run by organisers Vincent Seddon and Ian Smeeth.

What I loved most was the wide variety of classes for everyone. There was a section of unaffiliated classes ideal for those who are just starting out in showing; it’s these opportunities which provide a stepping stone for riders who might want to dip their toes in the water before signing up to societies.

The working hunter sections seemed to have unbelievable numbers. The range of different fence sizes and course technicalities meant competitors could start small and gain confidence without any stress before working their way up to the Royal International (RIHS) qualifiers. Similarly, the British Show Pony Society’s (BSPS) new Winter Worker Stakes series has been a fantastic introduction at this time of year, and I hope to see these sorts of classes continued in the future.

The novice horse classes were particularly strong and all the animals came out looking really well. Those novices who stayed novice after 2021 have really benefited from the extra time in the ring without pressure.

If we only have one lesson to come out of the Covid period it’s that horses should never be rushed. It should be confirmation that time and patience with animals really does pay in the end.

“It’s a huge loss”

Looking to the season ahead and it’s a real shame we’ve lost some of our county shows, including Surrey County.

We will be running on a different circuit this year as some of the prestigious counties have lost some of their Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers, namely the Royal Norfolk, but I know there are others. We would always take hunters across to contend in the qualifiers held at Norfolk, and while the entries were never massive, it’s a huge loss to this much-loved, beautiful show which is rooted in tradition.

We cannot ignore the impact of rising fuel, feed, bedding and general living costs will have on our sport moving forward. Fuel and energy costs are phenomenally high and people will be putting more thought into where they show this year, and this will have a knock-on effect on entry and ticket sale numbers. It’s going to be a difficult time and I predict riders will be staying local or attending far fewer shows.

I am lucky in that I can take a lorry load of horses to one show, but if I had to put one horse on the box I would probably think again, especially this early in the season. After the RIHS final in July, classes might start to garner more support after people vie for those last-minute HOYS tickets, but only time will tell.

Championing British Breeding

Returning to the topic of young horses, I feel 2022 will be an especially strong year in the show ring. It’s fantastic to see how British breeding is being championed. We have so many passionate, knowledgeable people within our industry as well as great stallions and some lovely mares.

The quality of the horses of today compared to those of yesteryear is only improving, and it appears mare owners have become more aware of what bloodlines will suit their horse when the time comes. There are some beautiful horses out there, which is exciting for the future of our sport.

This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 14 April

Katie Jerram Hunnable on social media: ‘Please think before you post’

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:00:24 +0000

Katie Jerram Hunnable on how social media has changed the equestrian section

SOCIAL media is a controversial subject. Over the last few years, I’ve seen both the positive and negative impact it’s had on the equestrian industry, especially within showing.

Most people are now on social media a lot of the time and we can’t deny the influence it has on us.

In many ways, social media use has been a good thing and it’s brought in a lot of money to the sector, especially through sponsorship opportunities.

Riders, including myself, now have a huge list of wonderful sponsors obtained through social media and the platforms give us a free space to promote their products and ultimately help our businesses grow.

It’s a fantastic way to keep up to date and catch up with people from across the globe at absolutely no cost.

We can connect with riders and friends we’ve made from all over the world, and we can watch the way other people do things to improve and educate our own methods. In yesteryear, we never had this kind of instantaneous communication.

While it’s certainly handy to have showing results available to us as soon as the class is over, our online consumption has definitely changed the way we view and consume other media outlets, such as magazines.

Once upon a time everyone would buy their H&H copy to obtain results from the previous week’s shows and some of the big championships would even make the national press. Posting and streaming results and show news on Facebook has arguably had an impact on our beloved equestrian magazines, which is a shame as we don’t want to lose our print publications as they are a key part of our industry.

Proceed with caution

For all the benefits, there are certain aspects of social media I have struggled with, and I would advise people to proceed with caution when participating online.

First and foremost, things can be misconstrued online, and people should always be aware that as soon as they press the ‘send’ or ‘post’ button their words are out there and can be open to any interpretation.

The conflict, seen at times online, is worrying. One ill-advised post can have a serious knock-on effect on someone’s business, personal life, or even their mental health.

I’m also not in favour of people oversharing on social media either; I’m not sure if these posts, which often appear to detail very personal situations, are to gain attention or sympathy?

The immediacy of the internet can also be damaging; if a terrible situation occurs, such as a tragic death or accident, there would be nothing worse than the family or connections finding out via social media before being informed by a more appropriate route.

Judges’ activity on social media is also a contentious subject. We’ve all seen competitors upping their number of posts just prior to a show, displaying their horses in all their glory. This is effectively advertising or promoting their exhibit, thereby creating the perception that Judges know the combinations through Facebook before the show has even started.

Likewise, in my opinion judges shouldn’t be commenting on an exhibitor’s photos, as this sends all the wrong signals, looks like favouritism and potentially contributes to decreased entries.

Finally, we shouldn’t be asking our friends for advice on social media and should be going to a relevant professional such as a vet or a nutritionist. There’s a reason why these people train for years to be knowledgeable about their specialist topic, so whether it’s a schooling, bitting or feed question, please go to the correct person or business to source the relevant information.

This year I’ve tried hard to think more about what I post on social media. It has meant I’ve posted less, which results in less exposure for my sponsors, but I’m working on this with them.

Before you post anything, give it some thought. Ask yourself, what impact could this post have? Could it damage my reputation, mental health, or someone elses?

This exclusive column will also be available to read in H&H magazine, on sale Thursday 28 October

#SundaySchool: Katie Jerram-Hunnable — how to teach your horse to gallop

Gemma Redrup — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 18:32:47 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable (pictured) has been involved with horses all her life; she began showing at the age  of seven and started producing show horses in her early 20s. Katie currently produces horses for The Queen. She has won at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International (RIHS) on many occasions and currently trains horses and riders at her parents’ yard in Essex, with her husband, the former Olympic eventer Chris Hunnable.

How to teach horse to gallop? Katie shares her advice…

Training the stars

I had a wonderful hunter called Noble Clover whom  I competed in weights, workers and ladies’ classes. He was very bold but could be strong, as I found to my cost at Royal Windsor. I failed to stop after galloping him,  and we jumped clean out of the arena over the Horse & Hound banner.

I tend to advise people not to over-bit their horses, but on this occasion, I decided better brakes were needed so I bridled him accordingly. He went on to win at HOYS later that year as a heavyweight and we never looked back.

Many riders panic in the  show ring when asked by the judge or steward to gallop. They come off the corner too quickly, kick on, yet often simultaneously snatch at the horse’s mouth, causing it to hollow rather than to lower and lengthen correctly.

Anticipation is also often a problem for both horse and rider. The only solution is to practise the gallop pace at home, as you would any other, so you can execute it in a controlled manner.

How to teach horse to gallop

1. Count how many natural canter strides you are achieving down the long side of the arena. This will vary depending on the size of your arena, and the height and length of stride of your horse.

Deepen your seat and shorten the natural rhythm, fitting in two extra strides down the long side — for example, if your horse’s natural canter is 11 strides, aim to ride  13 strides.

Go back to the natural canter, lighten your seat and lengthen the stride, aiming to ride three strides fewer — in this case, eight strides down the long side of the arena. Then deepen your seat and shorten back to the natural rhythm again.

2. Go up and down this exercise on both reins as part of your weekly schooling regime, but be sure to include other exercises to keep the horse fresh and enjoying work.

Keep practising this exercise until you are confident you can ask the horse to alter its frame on command, without anticipating  or panicking.

3. Aim to lighten the seat rather than dig in with the heels. You need to keep your hands soft to allow the horse to move forwards.

4. Practise moving the horse up and down within the canter so this becomes part of the schooling exercise, rather than something which is dramatic and exciting.

Consider this…

Once in the ring, be aware of where the steward is likely to ask you to gallop and where the judge is watching the gallop. Judges do not necessarily watch everything.
I begin my preparation for the gallop on the short side of the ring before the corner where I am being asked to gallop. This means I am building the pace gradually, allowing the horse to extend, so my optimum gallop is in the frame immediately in front of the judge. Don’t wait until the last minute then blast off the corner in a panic and hope things will go right.
Find a space that suits you and your horse.  I prefer to go first, or behind someone who I  know will set a good pace. Don’t be rushed, and don’t be afraid to circle if you aren’t happy with your position.
Practise galloping at home, using the exercise  I have described. You would not put a horse into the show ring without polishing its other paces; the gallop should not be an exception. A good gallop can win or lose the class.

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‘There’s no textbook way’: Katie Jerram-Hunnable on channelling the talented but tricky horse

Alex Robinson — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 18:24:38 +0000

As one of the leading showing producers on the circuit, there a few titles that Katie Jerram-Hunnable has not won.

With multiple Horse of the Year Show and Royal International accolades under her belt, Katie is one of the best in the business, even being the producer of choice for The Queen. And Essex-based Katie is quick to credit her impressive string of horses, past and present, for her enviable tally.

But as the saying goes, some of the best horses are often the most difficult, as Katie discussed with showing editor Alex Robinson on episode 61 of the Horse & Hound podcast.

“You have to work with your horses as individuals,” said Katie. “There’s no set way to work any one horse and you’ve got to get into their brains and learn their preferred ways of working.

“You have to make sure they’re happy with with their routines, too. We feed our horses the same feeds all year round and give the same turnout as well as the same turnout partner. If they don’t seem to like something I admit I do take it home with me and think about it a lot.

“There is no textbook way of doing a horse. We work with them, not against them. If they don’t like something, for example standing still, I don’t get cross I just get on with it. Take the horse to lots of places and teach them that it’s not a major hassle or a big deal. Take the horse down a peg, too, and do the smaller things so they can digest it and get used to it. Hopefully, they will come out the other side.

“If might be easy for me to say this, and of course, it won’t work with all of them, but 99 percent of the time if you can understand a horse and work with him as if he’s your best friend you’ll get there.”

Listen to Katie talk about some of her top horses from her career on episode 61 of the Horse & Hound podcast.

The Horse & Hound Podcast 61: Katie Jerram-Hunnable | Rider nutrition | Olympic and news round-up

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 05:45:12 +0000

In our 61st weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, currently supported by Petplan Equine, top showing producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable talks to H&H showing editor Alexandra Robinson about her 2021 Royal Windsor Horse Show, where she had a few wins, including with Her Majesty The Queen’s horse Daydream, as well as the favourite horses of her career. Our team in Tokyo will review the Olympic action so far and H&H news editor Eleanor Jones and senior news writer Lucy Elder discuss the effects of the Great Yorkshire Show’s controversial rider weight policy five years on and a recent BBC Panorama documentary, which gripped the nation. In this week’s advice section, personal trainer Katie Bleekman offers advice on nutrition and hydration for riders on competition days, and why your diet is just as important as the one you feed your horse. We hope you will find this useful.

Episode 61 of The Horse & Hound Podcast, our popular audio service available every Thursday morning for our H&H digital subscribers and currently supported by Petplan Equine, is now live.

Each episode is available for all H&H fans to listen to via your favourite podcast app 24hrs after its early release to our H&H digital subscribers. Search for “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your preferred podcast app and click subscribe to be notified about each new episode. This will allow more listeners to make The Horse & Hound Podcast an essential part of their week on Friday morning.

View all episodes of The Horse & Hound Podcast

In our 61st weekly episode of The Horse & Hound Podcast, top showing producer, Katie Jerram-Hunnable, talks to H&H showing editor Alex Robinson about her experience at the 2021 Royal Windsor Horse Show, where she had a few wins, including with Her Majesty The Queen’s horse Daydream III.

“We had three wins for Her Majesty, which was always special – it’s just lovely and a hard to show to win at, so come home with the three wins was just amazing” – Katie Jerram-Hunnable on her 2021 Royal Windsor experience

Our team in Tokyo review the Olympic action so far and then, moving on to the week’s key news stories, H&H news editor Eleanor Jones and senior news writer Lucy Elder discuss the effects of the Great Yorkshire Show’s controversial rider weight policy five years on and a recent BBC Panorama documentary, which has gripped the nation.

“The issue was first raised by committee vets in a meeting in the Autumn of 2015 and they said it was a welfare problem” – Eleanor Jones on the rider weight policy introduced by the Great Yorkshire Show show committee

In this week’s advice section, we welcome back personal trainer Katie Bleekman, who will be offering advice on nutrition and hydration for riders on competition days, and explains why your diet is just as important as the one you feed your horse.

“Your diet is your building blocks, so it is a huge consideration and what you should be doing on a general basis is focusing on the goodness your body needs so that you perform at your best” – Katie Bleekman

We are also bringing you daily podcasts throughout the Olympics, supported by Toggi, reviewing each day’s action and looking ahead to the next day’s competition, so make sure you subscribe on your podcast app to ensure you don’t miss an episode.

We would love to hear your feedback on all our podcasts, so please do send your thoughts to pippa.roome@futurenet.com

H&H Plus podcast: episode 61

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Katie Jerram-Hunnable: ‘We’re in a judging crisis’ H&H Plus

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 15:00:23 +0000

We’re desperately in need of new judges, warns Katie Jerram-Hunnable

KEEPING everyone safe in the show ring has meant changes in the way classes are run. In some cases, this means riders warming up in the ring itself to avoid having to share small collecting rings – and I hope this change is here to stay, at least for novice horse classes. Being able to ride a young horse around the ring to acclimatise him to his surroundings is a win for everyone. Show horses must have good manners, but they aren’t police horses.

While most judges make allowances for novice moments, this gives riders the chance to start from a level playing field. After all, showing is the only discipline where horses are expected to go into a strange environment and perform straight away. In dressage, you get the chance to ride around the outside of the arena before entering to ride your test and in showjumping, you have time to switch on your horse’s concentration and confidence before starting the course.

Bigger shows have had start times for classes to avoid congestion on the showgrounds. Can we please keep this system, too? Knowing what time a class starts is a bonus, especially when competing young horses, because you don’t have to risk getting them out too early and their energy levels flagging.

“No one can go on forever”

NOVICE judges need as much support as novice horses. Last year, organisers of the few shows that went ahead could not have probationary judges in the ring and judges’ training days were also put on hold because of Covid-19. That means most societies have no new blood coming through.

It was a problem before the pandemic – looking back, we columnists have often encouraged young showing enthusiasts to train as judges and stewards – but now it’s a crisis. Much as we value the experience and dedication of our senior judges, no one can go on forever!

Ride judges are back in action for qualifying classes, but many shows are delaying their return for classes that are not qualifiers. I’ve always felt that ride judges have a vital role, because although a good judge can tell how a horse should ride from its conformation and way of going, nothing beats the actual experience.

However, I think it’s a good idea that ride judging for novice classes should be put on hold for this season. With the best will in the world, none of us have had the chance to prepare young horses in the usual way, taking them to clinics and other events to try out the sights and sounds away from home.

As a result, we’re throwing them in at the deep end, no matter how much we’ve tried to introduce them to new experiences. And that increases the risk for ride judges, no matter how experienced.

If you’re entering classes that have a ride judge, how long is it since your horse has had someone other than you in the saddle? Don’t take it for granted that your horse will behave: as long as you can do it within the rules, find a competent test rider to remind him what it’s about.

SUNNY SIDE UP

RIDERS are being sensible, well-behaved and mannerly, which I believe is partly due to us being allowed to ride in the ring before the class starts, and we’re all enjoying being out and about again. Even social media is staying on the sunny side. I’ve noticed that moans are rare and instead we’re seeing posts along the lines of, “My horse didn’t do as well as I hoped, but we did our best and I had a lovely day meeting up with friends.”

Horses are going well and despite the surge in grass growth, most I’ve seen are in correct condition. Laminitis is a huge risk and it’s worth getting advice from your feed company or independent nutritionist about how to give essential nutrients without excess calories.

This report can also be read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale date 24 June 2021

Katie Jerram-Hunnable: ‘It seemed like it was never going to happen’ H&H Plus

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 08:00:15 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable on why youngsters are benefiting from a change

IT seemed like it was never going to happen but we’re back in the show ring, and it’s fantastic. Apart from having the chance to compete again, it’s wonderful to see friends and to see everyone so thankful. So far, I haven’t heard any complaints, so let’s hope it stays that way as we cautiously count our blessings.

We’ve been itching to get our young horses out, and had a great day at Lucinda Haines’ superbly organised British Show Pony Society Area 15A show held at Arena UK. Everything was done safely, but the four rings were close enough to make everything seem connected.

Judges and stewards did a great job and as far as I could see, everyone was sensible about social distancing and staying in their bubbles. The largest number of competitors in my classes was seven, but others had more. It’s such a great venue, as it’s accessible from the north and the south. So far, there seem to have been more shows organised in the north, but no doubt it will even out.

I was surprised that there were no entries in the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) open class at Arena UK and just one forward in the novice section. I think some riders have been worried about putting entries in for fear shows wouldn’t go ahead, but I feel it’s brave of those who went ahead and organised them.

Hiring facilities is expensive and while I know some feel differently, my owners all said that they weren’t bothered whether prize money was offered. What mattered was a passion for our sport and just getting things up and running again.

THE BIG WIDE WORLD

THE novice horses had their eyes on stalks as they had to cope with so many things they hadn’t seen or heard before. In normal times, I would have been holding clinics and they would have been ridden around as an introduction, but obviously that couldn’t happen. However, we’re all in the same boat and as far as I could see, we all coped.

Riding a youngster who was a little green doing an individual show made me glad I was on board rather than a ride judge. There are some wonderful ride judges who give novice horses the positive approach and reassurance they need, but in these exceptional times I was pleased it was me who did the metaphorical hand-holding.

A few shows like this will be invaluable in giving novice horses mileage. You may ride them at home and find they are perfect every day, but you can’t simulate experiences such as being in the ring with four other rings nearby, so they have horses meeting them face to face – albeit at a safe distance.

Many people have had more time for their horses during lockdown. Hopefully, this has reinforced how much better the end result is when you take time and do things properly, rather than being tempted to take short cuts.

To everyone breathing a sigh of relief that their young horse behaved well at its first outing, enjoy the satisfaction but don’t rest on your laurels.

First shows can be a bit like first days out hunting. Everything is new, so the horse is kept occupied. On the next few outings, your horse may feel he knows what’s happening and it’s all rather exciting.

DEEPEST SYMPATHY

FINALLY, the many tributes paid to the Duke of Edinburgh highlighted his depth of knowledge in so many fields, from science and conservation to equestrianism.

His accomplishments as a whip are well documented and we must remember that horses show us what we are – they make no allowances for rank. Our sympathy goes to The Queen and to all those who loved him.

This exclusive column can also be read in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 29 April

Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s 11 steps to create your horse’s best ever plaits

Madeleine Silver — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 15:24:30 +0000

In this expert guide to producing the perfect plaits that suit your horse, we outline your plaiting kit essentials, showing supremo Katie Jerram-Hunnable shares some top plaiting tips from her book Modern Horse Management, and dressage rider Sarah Millis demonstrates how she plaits her dressage horses in an exclusive video

Top show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable says knowing how to plait a horse’s mane to make the animal appear at their best is an art, as the number of plaits and the way they are set on to the neck can help maximise the horse’s conformation. It can even create an optical illusion, as when setting plaits on top of the neck adds the appearance of extra substance to a neck lacking muscle.

Plaits can be sewn or, if you are practising techniques or in a hurry, fastened with rubber bands or yarn. Stitching looks neater and will keep the plaits more secure. To undo stitched plaits, use a dressmaker’s stitch unpicker rather than scissors as there is less risk of cutting into mane hair.

Conventional (hunter) plaits are acceptable for most disciplines, with the proviso that some showing categories — native ponies, pure-bred Arabs and cobs shown as traditionals — specify that manes must be natural.

Even then, it’s important to check breed and society guidelines, as some allow a degree of thinning and shortening. The rules are taken to extremes for pure-bred Arabians, where the fashion is to cut an exaggeratedly long bridlepath.

Traditionally, there were seven or nine plaits along the neck with one for the forelock. In the UK, it’s accepted that you should not need more than eleven; in the US, riders sometimes opt for many more. Tailor the size and number of plaits to suit your horse’s conformation – for some reason, most people still opt for an odd number along the neck.

A heavyweight hunter type looks better with relatively substantial plaits (not ‘golf balls’) spaced apart whilst smaller plaits set slightly closer together complement a finer type of animal.

What you need in your plaiting kit

Whether you prefer to plait your horse’s mane using a needle and thread or use rubber bands for convenience, you need a lot more than that in your plaiting kit to make the process quick and easy. Here are our recommended items for every plaiting kit:

Waxed plaiting thread in the correct colour to match your horse’s mane
A number of large flat needles with large eyes
A small, sharp pair of scissors for cutting the thread into lengths
A pack of small but strong rubber bands in a colour to match your horse’s mane – if you don’t use these to secure your plaits, then they are useful for securing the mane into equal sized sections before plaiting begins

You can, of course, also buy a complete plaiting kit.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

You will also need:

A sturdy stool of a suitable height to stand on so you can work comfortably on the mane
A mane comb to brush the mane through and divide it into sections
A soft brush or sponge to apply water to the mane as needed
A plaiting gel, spray or wax to help keep the hair tidy and secure
A clip to keep any loose hair out of the way as you work
A stitch unpicker to remove thread from plaits afterwards

We recommend keeping your plaiting kit together in either a suitable clean plastic tub with a lid, or even better having a plaiting apron or similar you could wear around your waist, ensuring everything is kept clean, tidy and is easy to find when needed.

How to plait a horse’s mane with thread

Katie walks us step-by-step through the process she follows when plaiting her horses up for the show ring…

1. First, get everything ready and in place: it’s annoying to reach the end of a plait and realise your threaded needle is out of reach. We prefer to plait on the morning of a show, even though this may mean working in the dark. You need a brighter light than most stable lights throw, so I wear a cap with a torch attached to the brim. This allows me to focus on the precise area I’m working on. To save time, I thread lots of needles with plaiting thread the night before and keep them stuck in a small sponge so I don’t lose them. The sponge, plus some plaiting gel and a clip to hold loose mane hair out of the way as I make each plait, go in the pocket of my plaiting overalls. Once organised, the process is as follows:

2. Apply plaiting gel or, if you prefer, wet the hair and divide into even sections. Experienced plaiters can do this by eye, but it you’re unsure, section the mane and secure each section with a band or hair clip.

3. Start plaiting at the poll. If a horse becomes restless during the plaiting process, it’s easier to finish off plaits near the withers than those near his ears.

4. Divide the section into three equal, smaller ones and plait all the way down. As you plait, keep the tension taut but even. However, if you want to set each plait into a ‘hood’ of hair on top of the neck, to give an impression of more substance, don’t pull your first two crossovers as taut as the following ones.

5. Turn up the end of the plait and bind it with your knotted cotton to keep loose hairs secure.

6. Thread the needle through the base of the plait from front to back, then take the needle through the top of the plait from back to front, so the plait is doubled up.

7. Stitch down the centre, following the zigzags made by the hair sections so the stitches are hidden.

8. Take the needle from and through the bottom of the plait from front to back. Next, pass it through the top from the back to the front, so you are doubling up the plait again.

9. Stitch backwards and forwards three times to keep the plait secure. If you want to set the plait in a hood to give an impression that the neck has more substance, push it into place and hold it there as you stitch.

10. Knot the thread underneath the plait and cut it. Stand back and admire your handiwork, but don’t be tempted to pull out any stray hairs that have escaped or you’ll eventually end up with a ragged fringe along the crest.

11. If you find it difficult to make a neat forelock plait because your horse has short hairs on either side, or has a long forelock that you don’t want to shorten, make a French plait. Plait down as normal for a few turns, then take in a section of hair from each side every time you cross over.

How to plait a horse’s mane for dressage

In this video, dressage rider Sarah Millis shows how she plaits her dressage horses’ manes ready for a competition.

How to do running and Spanish plaits

Katie explains that some breeds and types of horses with long manes have too much hair to put into traditional ‘hunter’ plaits. If convention dictates that you need to plait for some competitions, such as affiliated dressage, you can make a running or Spanish plait instead. These are also useful if you need to keep a mane out of the way when riding in wet or muddy conditions.

A running plait. (Image credit: John Henderson)

To produce a running plait, start with a section of hair near the ears as when making an ordinary plait. Plait down, but each time you pass the left-hand section over the centre one, take in a small piece of mane. Let the mane fall naturally rather than pulling it tight and, as you progress, the plait will curve round.

Carry on plaiting, taking in the same amount of hair every time you cross the left-hand section over the centre piece. As you work, you’ll create a long plait that forms a neat edge to the bottom of the mane. When you’ve reached the withers and there’s no more hair to take in, plait the tail end and fasten as with an ordinary plait. Double up the loose ends, bind round and secure.

A Spanish plait is made using the same technique – but this time you keep the plait tight every time you take in a new section of hair. This means that the finished plait follows the line of the crest rather than curving down and round, as shown below.

A Spanish plait is kept tight to the top of the horse’s neck. (Image credit: John Henderson)

How is yarn used to plait a horse’s mane?

Katie says that grooms in the US use a technique for making what they call button or rosette dressage plaits in longer manes, using yarn that is woven into the plait and tied. This is nearly as quick as using rubber bands and keeps the mane neater and more secure, though is not as neat as sewn plaits.

Start by isolating a section of mane to plait and place a piece of yarn longer than the mane hair underneath it, at the top. Divide the mane into three and pass the right section over the centre, taking the right-hand side of the yarn piece with it. Repeat with the left section, again taking the yarn with it. Plait down as far as you can, incorporating the yarn with the mane hair each time you cross over.

When you get to the bottom, tie a slip knot in the yarn to secure the plait. Make the plait itself into a knot to give you a button/rosette, pass the yarn through the hair at the top – using a tapestry needle with a large eye or dressmaker’s pull-through tool if necessary – and use the yarn to tension the plait. Tie the yarn round the top of the plait; knot and cut off the excess.

If your horse’s mane is thick as well as long, you will need to make a greater number of plaits, or you end up with unsightly ‘golf balls’.

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Katie Jerram-Hunnable: ‘I would have struggled to perform a set show — are they really fair?’ H&H Plus

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 12:00:33 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable on our next generation of show jockeys, why we should be grateful and being on the fence about ride judging

Whether you’re nine years old, 15 years old or even an adult, sometimes you get brain-freeze. In the show ring there is an immense amount of pressure on our young riders who get pulled in at the top of the line and are required to perform a set show on command.

Nerves can get the better of them, and it’s particularly difficult to come out of the line and ride a routine – which is sometimes highly complex – told to you then and there. This happened to a young client of mine at the start of the year and afterwards she decided not to show again all season.

These days, it’s more important than ever that we’re encouraging our numbers, so I would like to see set routines for riders to practise before the day of a show. In a dressage competition, you learn and perfect your test at home. When the first rider goes out to do their show in the ring, they’re at a disadvantage to those standing down the line, who can watch and establish the workout firmly in their minds.

There should be different shows for novice and open level, as well as a selection to rotate over the year so animals don’t learn to anticipate. Our children could practise them at home. They put themselves under pressure enough as it is and if they go wrong, they can become disheartened and feel as if they’ve let their team down.

Being dyslexic myself, I am thankful I didn’t have to perform set shows growing up. I would have struggled. Those riders who benefit from professional assistance are also arguably better equipped to ride set shows, so it would provide a more level playing field if everyone can practise before an outing.

“I’m on the fence”

It’s been a terrible year for everyone but it’s also been one full of change. And as the developments continue, it’s important that showing also adapts and accepts that things may be different moving forward. Aspects of showing, such as ride judging, have been temporarily lost, and while some are disappointed, there must be no moans; we’re lucky to have a scheduled season in the new year and should all look ahead with a positive attitude.

I’m on the fence about ride judging. This term, I haven’t minded being able to perform individual shows on my young horses, who have benefited from the experience. I do wonder if there is a gap in the schedule for some novice classes without ride judges. When a baby horse starts his career, he’s initially out of his comfort zone. A new rider who asks different questions, is a different weight and rides differently can become all too much, and we wonder why they sometimes misbehave.

I’m fortunate in that I can put lots of riders on at home, but some amateurs might not have this luxury, so a ride judge is a new question for their horse. This year I feel I have taken steps forward with my young horses. I could take them round the ring myself and give them a positive trip out, which will only benefit them in the future.

“Brave yet sensible”

I’m sad to hear that some of our traditional agricultural shows have already been cancelled in 2021, meaning they won’t have been held for two consecutive years. I pray that we don’t lose these shows for good. Most shows are inevitably going to be held at equestrian centres for the foreseeable future, as these venues are set up to be more Covid friendly. But whatever happens, we must support the shows we can attend and make sure we pencil in dates for 2022.

So please support and get out. Be brave yet sensible.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 10 December 2020

Watch the Horse & Hound Awards 2020 virtual ceremony

Group One-winning racehorse joins The Queen’s Barbers Shop at top showing yard

Becky Murray — Mon, 12 Oct 2020 06:03:22 +0000

The dual Group One winner Limato is set to turn his hoof to a new career in showing when he joins a top producer next week.

Paul Jacobs’ eight-year-old gelding will move from trainer Henry Candy to Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s stable. Limato won 14 of his 33 races including the 2016 Group One July Cup and Prix de la Foret with Harry Bentley, three Group Two races, and three Group Threes.

Katie, who has retrained top chasers Cue Card and The Queen’s Barbers Shop, told H&H she feels “honoured” to have the gelding.

“He has come to me via Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) whose kind support places these super horses into another career,” she said.

“My passion is racing and my favourite breed is the thoroughbred and I couldn’t think of a nicer horse to retrain.”

Limato will arrive racing fit so will be given time to be let down and adapt to a different way of life.

“We will get him used to being turned out in the field and having a new routine. I always have plans and ideas [about their future] but every day is another day, nothing is textbook. The horses are individuals and you have to train each one a different way and find your way round. The lovely thing with him is as he’s only eight he’s got lots of time ahead of him,” said Katie.

“Some of them come on very quickly but others take time; Barbers Shop arrived in the October and was in the ring by March, Cue Card arrived in April last year and went to a few in-hand shows and was ready for the ring this March.”

Katie said Cue Card has since gone back to be turned out at the Tizzards’, his former trainer, after the pandemic meant the cancellation of many shows, but Barbers Shop will be on hand to “nanny” Limato in the field.

“Cue Card went home last month which was great sadness for us, he was ready for the ring but there was no shows. His owner, Mrs Bishop, is in her nineties now and couldn’t see him anywhere so he’s gone back home.

Article continued below…

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Star chaser joins Queen’s horse for new showing career

(Image credit: Getty Images)

‘This was meant to be’ — The Queen’s Barbers Shop to bow out at Windsor

The star former racehorse will be retired in a special ceremony

(Image credit: Getty Images)

“Barber hacks out every day or goes in the school and loves his work. He’s 18 now, and I’m very proud of him parading at RoR race meetings. He looks a picture and it’s lovely people still want him out there and the crowd still remember him.”

Katie added Henry Candy and his wife are “very excited” about Limato’s new career.

“They very much want to follow him and his future, they’ve done so much with this lovely horse and it means a lot to me that they support his new career so it’s lovely in all respects,” she said.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Life lessons: Show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable H&H Plus

Alex Robinson — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 14:00:25 +0000

H&H columnist Katie is a top showing producer who is based in Essex. She has won the supreme championship at both Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International (RIHS). As well as being The Queen’s show horse producer, she is an esteemed judge and accredited coach.

As soon as I’ve backed a baby, I take them out hacking on the lanes. It’s the most important part of a horse’s training process. I let them go forward in a happy yet controlled way; I take them out of that goldfish bowl and let them see the world.

It can be too easy to tack up and head into the school for 20 minutes each day, but this can be monotonous for horses and this is when they become resistant. Routine is important but variety in their work is essential.

I always tell young people not just to give 100%, but double it and give 200%. If you want to be successful, you have to listen, watch and learn. Find people you respect as trainers and never be frightened to ask questions. Realise you’re never perfect, and always look ahead to the next goal.

On competition day, I make sure to give myself enough time. We plan everything and pack the lorry the day before, so all we have to do is wake up and plait up. Each horse is given their normal breakfast so they have a full tummy before they leave. Horses often don’t want to eat when they get to a showground, so this keeps them happy.

Maintaining etiquette

When I’m about to step into the ring, I like to know who I’m going to follow in or if I need to go in first if I’m riding a particularly bold, forward horse.

I hate overtaking – especially in front of the judge – and I hate people coming too close to me from behind. I use my corners and ride in the same rhythm as if I’m working at home – too many riders push their horse out of their natural rhythm. If you need to circle then do so, but if you ride in and out of each corner you shouldn’t get too close to the person in front.

I wish I had spent more time eventing during my youth. I picked it up in my mid-twenties, after having both of my children, and my time before was split between showing and point to-pointing; I didn’t have the time to compete in three disciplines. When the pointing wound down a bit I was able to pick up eventing, but it would have been great to learn the job as a teenager.

Once, when I was very, very small and still on the lead-rein, I cried over a place at a show. My parents told me never, ever to do that again and I never, ever did.

When I was bringing up my own children, they never knew what the colour of a rosette meant. Parents shouldn’t be too hard on their children – make sure they’re doing it for enjoyment and not for a rosette or they’ll lose interest.

Older and wiser

During my career, I’ve broken my neck twice, which has made me change my routine. I spend a lot more time with the horses on the ground lungeing, long-reining and working through different exercises. It gives us both confidence in each other and allows us to work as a unit. In the past I’d break in a horse and jump on, but I’m older and wiser now; it’s just about safe riding.

I lost my lovely horse Azarax as an eight-year-old to a fatal guttural pouch haemorrhage. He was phenomenal and I never thought I’d have another like him. At the time Azarax was competing, Dunbeacon had always been there in the background; he was called the bridesmaid because he was always second in line. When Azarax died, he had to step up.

In 2010, we took him to the final ladies’ qualifier of the year and he picked up his HOYS ticket. That year he was supreme there. It’s unfair to say which one I’d have back – it would have to be both.

Ref Horse & Hound; 1 October 2020

Katie Jerram-Hunnable: Don’t breed complacency H&H Plus

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 08:00:26 +0000

Showing will not be the same for some time, writes H&H’s showing columnist

I’ve decided that 2020 is the year of confusion and consolidation. The confusion comes because none of us know what is going to happen, in both the big wide world and in our small but – to us – still important world of showing. As riders and producers, we can consolidate our horses’ education and our riding skills so that when we are back competing in confidence, we can feel that we have made the most of our time away from the show ring.

Government rules and guidelines change so frequently, and at times bewilderingly. We all want to behave responsibly, and we also have to consider our individual circumstances. The Showing Council has produced a blueprint for the resumption of safe showing which has been well received and is a positive move.

It’s good to see there is still an eagerness to learn. I’m teaching showing clinics, which can be run in a safe way, and it’s heartening to see riders’ enthusiasm and their willingness to do the right thing. I’ve just been part of a lovely clinic with four people in each group and participants were careful to keep their distance from me and from each other.

Dressage, showjumping and eventing are forging ahead within distancing regulations. When you’re the only rider in the ring, what passes for normal life at the moment is far easier. Showing enthusiasts have to be patient and although we all hope we will eventually return to our traditional formats, those who choose to go out must accept new restrictions and class formats.

Breeding complacency

One of the biggest changes in horse classes is that ride judging has been sidelined. I saw a video of a show in Southern Ireland where a ride judge was preparing to go ahead and all judges on the ground and officials wore masks. I don’t think you’d find many in the UK willing to ride judge, even if it were permitted.

I love being a ride judge and hope the role will return, as it gives a unique perspective, but I wouldn’t get on someone else’s horse even at a clinic. I don’t want to come into contact with other people’s tack and equipment and we must be careful that the relaxation of rules doesn’t breed complacency.

Thinking outside the show ring

There is a fine line between encouraging riders to try different things and maintaining their allegiance to showing. I’ve always believed that show horses – and riders – should be versatile. That could be as simple as taking a young horse out to a few dressage shows to get him used to being out and about and working in a different environment, or enjoying some schooling showjumping rounds if you’re aiming at workers classes.

Some show horses and ponies enjoy their job so much they can continue into veteran classes. Others need to change direction if they acquire a blemish which spoils their chances, or if they are not suitable for a schoolmaster role. If every horse has a good general education, it will always find a new job and a good home. As owners, it is our responsibility to give them every chance.

As I write, I have just one show in my calendar this year. I’m aiming to take just novices who have established a good foundation in their schooling and are at the stage where they need to get out rather than their connections wanting to go to a show. It’s all about small steps, and will be for some time to come.

Ref Horse & Hound; 20 August 2020

‘He was my best mate, we adored each other’ — farewell to prolific hunter

Alex Robinson — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 16:41:30 +0000

The legendary lightweight hunter Dunbeacon has died aged 20 after suffering from inoperable colic.

The bay gelding was known for his victories with leading show horse producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable.

Katie and Dunbeacon’s most successful time was between 2011 and 2012. In the former, he was overall hunter champion at Royal Windsor and won both ladies and lightweight classes at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) before taking the supreme horse title. The following season he reclaimed his Windsor crown and was also supreme horse at the Royal International.

“He was a tricky young horse,” said Katie. “He was cold-backed and if he was in a situation where he wasn’t happy, the next minute he’d be sat on the floor. Because of this he was only lightly shown in his younger years.”

It was only when she lost her prolific hunter Azarax that Katie decided it was time for Dunbeacon to step up.

“I was heartbroken when I suddently lost Azarax, but it was this time when I said to DB ‘it’s your time to grow up now and do the job now’,” she said.

“I decided to try him side-saddle and before long he’d won his first qualifier and was heading to HOYS. He’d absolutely needed that time to mature in his brain.

“He was a difficult horse but we adored each other. Because we’d worked so hard to build trust in each other we became best mates.”

Continues below…

(Image credit: Future)

#SundaySchool: Katie Jerram-Hunnable — how to teach your horse to gallop

Watch Cue Card work at home during his retraining for the show ring

The National Hunt hero is enjoying his post-racing career

(Image credit: Future)

Katie remembered his RIHS supreme victory: “He had a ‘DB freak-out’ and went into stress mode outside the main arena. I was panicking a bit but as soon as he stepped into the ring he just rose to the occasion. He knew he was the main man. He had the biggest gallop and he did the most beautiful show in the Hickstead main arena. That was a pheanomal day.”

Dunbeacon was bought by Katie as a three-year-old and he retired from the show ring in 2014. He lived out his days at Katie’s Essex base.

“He was never going to leave home; he’d given me everything. He was a major part of our yard and all the staff loved him. He was still reguarly ridden and pampered, and it wasn’t his time to go but there was nothing anyone could do. But it doesn’t make saying goodbye to your best friend any easier.”

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Watch Cue Card work at home during his retraining for the show ring

Hannah Lemieux — Sat, 14 Sep 2019 15:24:27 +0000

Since retiring from the racecourse in April last year, National Hunt hero Cue Card has taken to his new career in the show ring well.

The 13-year-old son of King’s Theatre arrived at the Essex yard of top showing rider and producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable in April.

Cue Card, who was victorious in the King George VI Chase and three Betfair Chases, was placed under Katie’s expertise through the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR). The rider enjoyed showing success with The Queen’s former racehorse Barber Shop, who is now retired, and she has been preparing Cue Card for his new career after racing. They made their show ring debut together in August during the RoR Goffs UK National Championships, finishing outside the placings.

“So far Cue Card has been shown in-hand but he hasn’t yet been under saddle in the show ring,” Katie told H&H. “I wanted him to see the ring quietly this year. I’d like to aim him for the ROR and SEIB championships under saddle next year — he’ll be a novice despite his age — and I think he’ll go to Royal Windsor next year too.

“He’s the people’s favourite, so it’s nice for him to do the high profile shows. He’s been very good to retrain and settled in his field really well. He’s hacked out and likes his routine — like all racehorses. He’s very kind and loves titbits, oranges, biscuits, apples and polos.”

Continued below…

(Image credit: Future)

The video, produced by the Jockey Club, shows Katie working Cue Card at home. He is still owned by Jean Bishop, who has stayed loyal to the talented gelding — she enjoys going to watch him at shows and visiting him at Katie’s yard.

“He is the most lovely horse, and has been very relaxed from day one — everyone loves him and I can understand why,” Katie said on the video.

“We have been teaching him to canter because he does take a strong hold. We’ve been teaching him to drop the contact and do things in a different way. It has taken him up until now to balance on a 20m circle, he’s only ever had to gallop in a straight line.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

H&H’s 135th birthday: Katie Jerram-Hunnable — ‘such difficult circumstances made it so special’

Andrea Oakes — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 07:25:30 +0000

Through the highs and lows of equestrian sport, Horse & Hound has been there – documenting the many achievements of Britain’s top riders and sharing their experiences on the world stage. We all have our treasured memories from the last few decades of competition, but what would some of our best-loved celebrities single out as their proudest moments? Next up, as we celebrate H&H’s 135th birthday with a bumper issue (dated 20 June), is showing rider Katie Jerram-Hunnable…

Horse sport involves some spectacular highs and devastating lows, as this showing superstar knows only too well.

Katie first competed at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) at 10 years of age. While she has since enjoyed a string of successes at the highest levels, her proudest moment came at the end of a particularly difficult year.

“Standing supreme champion at the 2010 Horse of the Year Show with Dunbeacon meant so much,” she says of the week that the sensitive gelding conquered his demons to win the lightweight hunter, the ladies’ hunter and the supreme title (pictured). “I’d lost my lovely horse Azarax earlier that year when he suffered a fatal guttural pouch haemorrhage. He had been my first ride back after I’d broken my neck and he won supreme horse at the Royal Show. I was away at the Dublin show when I got the dreadful news that he was dead.”

Article continues below…

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Katie continues: “Dunbeacon was a very difficult horse and I’d always felt that the whole HOYS atmosphere would be too electric for him. It was a huge ask to expect him to cope and very hard to perform a supreme show under that pressure. It had been a job to get on him in the outside ring, as he was very cold-backed and would sink down, so as I jumped on him I prayed that he would stay standing up.

“In the ring, however, he was on fire. He was absolutely magical to ride. I still don’t know why he suddenly grew up – it was if he pulled his socks up and did it for Azarax.

“Such difficult circumstances made it so special. It was an incredible, emotional win.”

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

Star chaser joins Queen’s horse for new showing career

Sarah Radford — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 12:02:41 +0000

Much-loved steeplechaser Cue Card is set to become the new stable star for showing producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable.

The 13-year-old gelding arrived last week (11 April) at Katie’s Essex yard, and is pencilled in to make his Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) debut in hand at Royal Windsor next month.

Cue Card, trained by Colin Tizzard, retired in April 2018 after taking nine Grade 1 victories, including the King George VI chase in 2015. He won more than £1m under Rules.

“I saw the farewell pictures from his leaving do at the Tizzards’ yard on Facebook and I had a lump in my throat. Everyone there is upset he’s going, but it’s lovely to know he’s so loved — not just by crowds but by the yard,” said Katie. “I said ‘sorry we were taking him away, but we’ll do our best to take care of him’.”

Katie said the horse had settled straight in to his “prime box” next door to The Queen’s prolific RoR champion Barbers Shop.

“He went straight in and tucked into his hay and had a drink and looked happy,” said Katie. “Barber’s nose did look slightly out of joint at the new arrival, which was quite funny!”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Prior to Cue Card’s owner Jean Bishop giving Katie’s yard the seal of approval last week, the son of King’s Theatre (Sadler’s Wells) had been adjusting to retirement at his trainers, and made his most recent public appearance in a parade at Cheltenham last month.

Katie said Cue Card had “come out of racing looking amazing” and had “finished his career with a smile on his face”, adding that she “couldn’t wait to get started” preparing him for his showing debut.

“I’m planning to have a sit on him this afternoon and then he’ll go out in the paddock and get into his new routine,” she said.

Continues below…

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“He is entered into Royal Windsor in hand — it’s very early days but we thought we would do some in-hand showing this year, just to get him used to the banners and everything that’s going on and then I’d like to think he could do some novice ridden before beginning his open campaign the year after.”

Katie said the bay — who his lad described as “a very kind horse” — has all the attributes to succeed in his new role.

“He’s a beautiful horse with the most lovely body — short coupled, deep through the girth, a cracking hind leg, beautiful foreleg and lovely length of rein,” she said. “Obviously he will put more on his top line, it will just be a case of putting his muscles into different use as he won’t be used to working through the way we would work him through. We’ll start with light work in the school and a lot of hacking.

“Everyone is so excited about it,” she added. “The driver who dropped him off said he’d be cheering him on at every show — it means the world to me that he has such a lovely following.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

The next Barbers Shop? Katie Jerram-Hunnable to retrain Gold Cup winner

Alex Robinson — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 15:29:45 +0000

Katie Jerram-Hunnable might have lost a showing partner when she retired the legendary Barbers Shop from the show ring this year, but the Essex-based rider has a new former racehorse joining her team of top-class charges very soon.

Lord Windermere, a 12-year-old bay gelding, was trained by Jim Cullotty to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2014. Previously owned by Dr Ronan Lambe, Newmarket-based farrier Becky Lowe has taken ownership, and asked Katie to take on the ride.

He will be arriving from Ireland this month and will be joining Katie’s yard after Horse of the Year Show in October ready to start his retraining programme.

“It all started with a phone call,” said Katie. “I was asked if I would be interested in taking him on, and of course I said I’d love to. It’s a great honour to have been asked to have another big name — he is always one I’ve put money on in the big races actually.”

Katie broke her neck in a schooling accident last year and while she is still not riding, she is on the mend and hopes to be back in the saddle soon

She added: “He retired from the track a few months ago and has been in the field ever since. When he gets to the UK he will have some more chillout time, before starting his journey.

“We will begin with lots of hacking and quiet work, getting familiar with him and building some muscle tone. From there we will steadily introduce some schooling.

Continues below…

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘This was meant to be’ — The Queen’s Barbers Shop to bow out at Windsor

The star former racehorse will be retired in a special ceremony

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Katie Jerram’s tips for retraining a racehorse

Top showing producer Katie Jerram gives her top tips for retraining a racehorse for the showring

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Top showing producer breaks neck in schooling accident

The rider suffered a ‘hangman’s break’ to her C2 vertebra

“I’ve never seen him the flesh but I am super-excited about getting going with him.”

“It’s hard to say how long it will take, as it can very a lot and he is an older horse. Barbers Shop came to us in the November and won at his first show in the following March, but each horse is different.”

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable: There is no room for cheating H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 08:55:11 +0000

Opinion

I’ve started the season by breaking my neck in a freak accident, as many of you will know. However, I’m still walking and will eventually get back to riding — others have not been so lucky.

Thank you, everyone who has offered good wishes. I really appreciate them. If the person who sent a parcel of books reads this, please don’t think I was rude in not acknowledging it — the delivery didn’t include information on who sent them, and the company wouldn’t tell me because of their data protection policy.

I’ve started dental treatment, and surgery on my cervical vertebrae is ahead. I’ve had to rethink everything I do and hope I can find something positive from it all. When you have a problem with a horse and textbook solutions don’t work, you have to find a way around them, so I’m applying that philosophy to myself.

Accidents like mine don’t affect just individuals. Their impact affects a whole team, so I’m overwhelmed by the support from all my owners, staff, family and friends. My yard is running at full strength, even if I have to run it from the sidelines temporarily.

Staying in touch

We have installed cameras around the school, yard and trot-up area, so I can watch everything being ridden and looked after, just as I normally do. It isn’t a Big Brother approach, but one to keep me in touch.

I’ve asked everyone to keep diaries about the horses they look after and ride. Team members were initially unsure about this, but now enjoy it — and the results are fascinating.

I’ve always found it beneficial to note management regimes, show performances and judges’ comments, but widening the record makes you realise how important it is to observe your horse and look at every aspect. I recommend it to everyone, amateur and professional.

Unfortunately, I’ve had to cancel my ride judge commitments for the season. I hate letting people down, but as I don’t know how long full rehabilitation will take, I had to give societies a chance to appoint a substitute, rather than hope that I can keep my judging appointments further down the line.

I’ll still be judging conformation and will be watching from the ringside.

Normally, I’m too busy riding in, preparing and competing to do this, so who knows? It could give me a different perspective.

Keep it clean

As I write, I’m looking forward to the BSPA’s first 2018 show on 25 February. to be held at the College Equestrian Centre, Keysoe. The classes span several societies, and this show is always one where riders bring out new prospects.

I’m also anticipating seeing last year’s new stars carry on shining. My 2017 judging highlight was seeing a four-year-old (Laybalands Fly By Night) take the overall supreme title at the BSPS summer championships, so I can’t wait to see this pony progress.

I was also pleased to see showing societies announcing a no-tolerance approach to doping. From this year, anyone who contravenes one society’s rules will be penalised by all those who have signed up to umbrella legislation.

There is no room for cheating in our or any other discipline. Keep it clean, keep it fair and have fun.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 22 February 2018

Top showing producer breaks neck in schooling accident

Horse & Hound — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 16:18:37 +0000

By Carolyn Henderson

Show producer and H&H columnist Katie Jerram-Hunnable is recovering from a freak accident which left her with a “hangman’s break” to the C2 vertebra in her neck.

Katie was schooling a young horse over poles on the ground when he tripped and somersaulted.

“The top of my head hit his knee and snapped back,” said Katie, who was wearing a PAS 015 standard safety helmet at the time.

“I knew something was wrong, but I landed more or less in the recovery position and stayed there until the ambulance came. I have to have an MRI scan every month and an X-ray every two weeks, so I’m waiting for a second scan in February to see what progress I’ve made and what the prognosis is.

“I’ve been able to chat to Nick Skelton, who suffered a similar injury in 2000. He fractured the C1 vertebra, but our scans were incredibly similar. Talking to Nick helped a lot, as he was very encouraging — and as he on to win Olympic gold medals, I’m determined to be positive.”

Katie has a full team of horses for owners this season, including some for Her Majesty the Queen, and says her Essex-based yard will be running as normal.

Her husband, former British eventing team member Chris Hunnable, will be in overall charge. He will be helped by head girl Jo Jack, who was due to set up her own business but is staying to support Katie this season, and both will ride at home and in the ring while Katie is out of action.

“I will be riding as soon as I can, but have to take a supervisory role until I’m given the go-ahead,” said Katie. “I’ve got a great team and all my owners have been incredibly supportive.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

7 horse names that make the grammar police shudder

Madeleine Silver — Tue, 05 Dec 2017 10:09:38 +0000

When our editors were asked which horses in their disciplines had names with spellings that grated on them, it didn't take long for them to reply...

The Last Samuri

The Last Samuri ridden by David Bass clear the final fence on their way to winning The BetBright Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster Racecourse. (Image credit: PA WIRE)

The Kim Bailey-trained chaser might have been the runner up in the 2016 Grand National, but we’re still scratching our heads about that missing ‘a’ in his name.

Definitly Red

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

So much time was spent as a child trying to remember how to spell ‘definitely’ correctly — and then the Brian Ellison-trained 2017 Grand National favourite Definitly Red comes along and throws us back into a state of confusion.

Barbers Shop

Barbers Shop dominated at the inaugural Retraining of Racehorses National Championship show, held at Aintree. Under Katie Jerra (Image credit: No credit needed)

Sometimes we’ve thought a restraining order might be necessary to stop us putting an apostrophe in the name of Katie Jerram’s side-saddle and Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) star. The fact that he was the last horse to be home-bred by The Queen Mother and is now, according to Katie, The Queen’s “favourite”, is just about enough to stop us tampering with the spelling of his name…

Sea The Stars

The Derby, won by Sea the Stars ridden by M J Kinane H&H 02/07/2009 pub orig (Image credit: Trevor Meeks/Horse and Hound/IPC)

In October 2009 Sea The Stars made racing history by becoming the first horse to win the 2000 Guineas, The Derby and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. He now stands at Gilltown Stud in Ireland, and his name is thanks to his Chinese owner Christopher Tsui, who chose it to reflect his father’s astronomical namesake — and to uphold the Chinese superstition that incorporating part of the mother’s name will bring luck to the offspring (Sea The Stars is out of Urban Sea).

Romano’s Rafiel

Romano's Rafiel (Image credit: Kevin Sparrow - 00447917336694)

The dressage stallion’s name Romano’s Rafiel (Rubin Star N x De Niro) is something of a tongue-twister as it is — and just to confuse matters he was actually bred at Romanno Stud (although you wouldn’t guess it from the spelling of his name…)

Barel Of Laughs

barel of laughs 1st seen here jumping the last at cheltenham 5-5-17 (Image credit: WWW.FOCUSONHORSES.COM)

Funny yes, but also annoying that there’s a missing ‘r’ in the Philip Rowley-trained chaser’s name. He did win the Cheltenham Hunter Chase however (5 May 2017) under jockey Alex Edwards — so perhaps we should let him off.

One Conemara

We can’t help thinking there’s been a typo with the spelling of this Jacqueline Coward-trained pointer. But this questionable spelling hasn’t stopped the former resident at Nicky Henderson’s Lambourn yard taking the coveted Grimthorpe Gold Cup for the past two years.

Are there any horse names that you can’t get your head around? Let us know by emailing hhletter@timeinc.com

Queen’s star horse withdrawn from HOYS

Rachael Turner — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 13:06:11 +0000

*Update: Barbers Shop is back to his usual self today (5 October) “He’s 100%,” said Katie. “We will never know what happened”.*

The Queen’s retrained racehorse turned showing star has been withdrawn from this week’s Horse of the Year Show (4-8 October), which was expected to have been his final appearance in the show ring.

Rider Katie Jerram Hunnable made the decision to not compete Barbers Shop after he came out of his stable unsound this morning (4 October).

“I’ve had him for five seasons and he’s never had a day’s unsoundness,” Katie told H&H. “He’s the soundest horse I’ve produced.

“I rode him yesterday (3 October) and he was on song and I went to bed saying, ‘Great, he feels brilliant’.

“I got up this morning and took him out of the stable — he had been stabled overnight at the show — and he was unsound.

“I only rode him for 10 minutes yesterday and I didn’t even work him.

“I don’t know [what happened] — it’s really, really gutting.”

The 15-year-old former racehorse was trained by Nicky Henderson while on the track. He ran 24 times under Rules and had eight wins.

Since then, he has had great success in the show ring, including being crowned supreme ridden champion at this year’s Royal Windsor Horse Show (14 May). He was due to compete in the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS today (Wednesday 4 October).

Katie said Barbers Shop’s lameness is a mystery.

“There are no marks in the stable and he hasn’t been cast,” she said. “He had bandages on overnight, which I put on when they’re staying away from home.

“He looked off-colour as well. He always looks shiny and bright-eyed, but he was a bit deflated.

“He’s was supreme at Windsor, been out twice this year and won twice, and always goes out looking really good.

“I just said I can’t [compete him like this]. It’s a devastatingly hard decision but he comes first.

“In my opinion they always should, it’s not about another rosette.

“It just wasn’t meant to be. It is a shame — I would have loved to have ridden him here, wherever we came. The girls are devastated, we all are.”

Continued below…

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Katie Jerram’s tips for retraining a racehorse

Top showing producer Katie Jerram gives her top

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s 6 steps to the perfect tail plait

In her new book 'Modern Horse Management', showing

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Katie Jerram’s top turnout tips [VIDEO]

Want to impress the judge in the showring?

Katie plans to get the vet to check the gelding over and hopes he will return to his usual self soon.

“It came on like that and I’m praying it will go [as quickly],” added Katie.

“We want him to do other things, like hunting and enjoy a quieter life.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

One last HOYS for Queen’s showing star

Rachael Turner — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 17:08:49 +0000

The Queen’s ex-racehorse Barbers Shop will retire from the show ring after the Horse of the Year Show (4-8 October).

Ridden by Katie Jerram Hunnable, the 15-year-old former racehorse turned showing star was trained by Nicky Henderson while on the track. He ran 24 times under Rules and had eight wins.

Since then, Barbers Shop has had great success in the show ring, including being crowned supreme ridden champion at this year’s Royal Windsor Horse Show (14 May).

Katie Jerram with Barber Shop, ROR Ridden Hunters owned by HM The Queen, at the yard of Katie Jerram on 21 May 2013 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“It is really sad but he can’t keep going for ever,” Katie told H&H.

“I thought a lot about retiring him last year, but he was reserve champion at HOYS and a lot of people said bring him back one more time.

“He went supreme at Windsor and it was the most amazing moment of my life.

Well done Katie Jerram and Barber Shop, the supreme ridden champions at Royal Windsor!Posted by Horse & Hound: Showing on Sunday, May 14, 2017

“It was something I never expected to happen. To see the smile on The Queen’s face was so special — it was like a dream.”

The bay gelding, who was the last horse to be bred by the Queen Mother, will continue with ridden work outside the show ring.

“I’m going to take him cubbing and to the opening meet in November,” said Katie.

Members of the Jerram family, friends and supports celebrating with HM The Queen after winner the RoR class at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in the private grounds of Windsor Castle in Windsor in Berkshire in the UK between 10th-14th May 2017 (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Hopefully he will continue to be asked to parade at the races too. He loves doing it and it would be such a shame not to put him on the lorry again.”

Continued below…

(Image credit: No credit needed)

Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s 6 steps to the perfect tail plait

In her new book 'Modern Horse Management', showing

(Image credit: No credit needed)

Barbers Shop triumphs for The Queen at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Find out what it meant to Katie Jerram

(Image credit: No credit needed)

Katie Jerram’s tips for retraining a racehorse

Top showing producer Katie Jerram gives her top

Barbers Shop dominated at the inaugural Retraining of Racehorses National Championship show, held at Aintree. Under Katie Jerra (Image credit: No credit needed)

Katie added that she “couldn’t wait” to ride Barbers Shop one more time in the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class at HOYS.

Katie and Barbers Shop’s victory at Windsor earned them a nomination for the moment of the year title at the Horse & Hound awards.

Don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out Thursday 12 October, featuring all the news and reports from HOYS

Struggling to work your horse correctly over his topline? 4 exercises to help

Liz Falkingham — Wed, 16 Aug 2017 16:25:54 +0000

Having your horse working correctly in an outline, by engaging their core while stretching softly forwards into the rider’s hand to produce a good topline, is a common goal when schooling. To achieve this the horse must be working forward into a consistent contact, with their core muscles engaged and the hind legs stepping under, so the horse is able to carry their own weight and that of their rider without falling on to the forehand.

If you are looking for further training and schooling ideas, why not sign up to Horse & Hound’s eight-week e-training plan to give your training focus and perfect your flatwork basics? Find out what is involved here.

4 simple exercises to help your horse work in an outline

Gary Parsonage, event rider

1. Spiral in and out

Why: This is a simple exercise designed to get a horse working in a basic outline while working freely forward in a happy frame of mind. The exercise engages the hind leg whilst keeping the horse forward to the contact, resulting in self carriage and showing the horse a more comfortable outline in which to carry himself and his rider.

How

1. Place a cone in the centre of an area large enough to comfortably circle around on the horse. Begin in walk and circle around the cone, working to stay equidistant at all points. Start at around 20m from the cone.

2. Once in a happy, balanced shape, start to spiral in towards the cone. Aim to find the optimum minimum size circle the horse is comfortable with (this could be anything from 3-15m from the cone) — stay on this circle for a couple of rotations.

3. Using an on-off pressure with the inside leg, in time with the rhythm of the pace, ask the horse to begin spiralling back out to 20m again. This exercise can be repeated in trot and canter as the horse develops physically and mentally.

2. Transitions within a pace

Why: To develop and test the subtle connection between leg and hand and control of impulsion, a great ‘go to’ exercise for absolutely any level of training is transitions within a pace. Lightness of aid, both in leg and hand, is a goal to be aimed for as an end result of each training session.

How

1. In trot, slow the pace down for a few strides (outline and contact should remain consistent) then ask the horse to step forward to a bigger trot again, maintaining the same outline and contact.

2. As the horse gains confidence with the exercise the amount of slower and bigger steps can be increased to show a greater contrast and expression. This can also be thought of as turning the volume up and down within the pace.

3. The horse should remain in front of the leg at all stages of the exercise, as speed of pace is too easily, and often confused with, being in front of the leg. To help the horse focus less on the hand, the rider should always try to use their position and upper body to give a hint that a transition is about to happen. In doing so the horse is calm and prepared in himself for the next phase. Core strength here is a big advantage for the rider.

Katie Jerram, showing producer (pictured top)

3. Lateral work

Why: This is one I use quite a lot both when teaching and when riding myself; it gets the horse around your hand and leg and it teaches him to accept the aids — both essential if you are to achieve the correct outline. It also gives the rider the necessary control; I often use two schooling whips for this exercise — I don’t tend to use spurs as I am preparing horses to be ridden by a judge who won’t be wearing them, and two whips help back the leg aids up. If the horse doesn’t respond to the leg aid, use a touch from the whip on the quarters to reinforce the aid.

How

1. Start in walk and, using the hand and leg individually to give the aid, ask the horse to come off the track 5m; he should be stepping across in front and behind.

2. Once he completes the lateral movement, ask him forward on the new line for four steps, before asking him to move back laterally to the original track. This can be repeated until the horse learns to engage the hind leg correctly and carry himself in the desired outline.

3. Once ready, move the horse on to doing the exercise in a controlled working trot.

Continued below…

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4. Trot poles

Why: I use quite a lot of trot poles when exercising; these give your horse a bit more variety in its training and a break from flatwork. Polework exercises encourag more length of stride, elastic steps and connection from behind to help the horse come into the correct outline.

How

1. Start with one pole in walk, moving up to two poles, five ‘heel to toe’ steps apart. Move the horse up into trot then increase the number of poles up to six or seven. You can then increase the distance between the third to last poles to encourage your horse to start to open his stride out.

2. Always ride for the centre of the pole; I like to sit to the trot to balance over the first pole then, through my leg and seat, put the pressure on a bit harder to open him out. Make sure when you ask for this that your horse doesn’t run on the forehand; if he does, check him back and keep doing this until he sits up into his work.

3. To improve cadence and hock action, you can move onto raised trot poles, but ensure you reduce the distance between each pole back to five ‘heel to toe’ steps apart.

As when starting any training, make sure the horse’s teeth, back and tack are not impeding progress.

Now you have some techniques to help improve your horse’s outline, why not sign up to Horse & Hound’s eight-week e-training plan to give your training focus and perfect your flatwork basics?

Katie Jerram: ‘shows must be more adaptable’ H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 07:55:38 +0000

The success story of South of England show was its big-money amateur championship. Congratulations to Avril Bartolomy, who is on a roll and took the £500 prize with her maxi cob, Clantara Shadow Play.

Some riders said they didn’t know about the championship until it was too late to enter relevant classes. One solution would be to allow entries on the day.

Shows must be more adaptable; I’ve said this before, and other columnists have since made the same point. Shows that allow late entries benefit by levying an extra charge and it’s good news for the rider who has bought a new horse or needs to make last-minute plans.

Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pay late entries by cash on the day or by card. One society chairman tells me they’ve had to make this rule because a minority of unscrupulous competitors entered via rubber cheques. How sad; these people only have themselves to blame if societies start a blacklist.

When well-sponsored championships are on offer, those eligible should do all they can to take part. When you’re facing a long journey at the end of a long day, it’s tempting to head home, especially if you think you don’t stand much chance.

But poorly supported championships make sponsors ask why they should fork out. Riders shouldn’t be defeatist; championships are often decided by “fresh” judges, and if you go in with the right attitude, you never know what will happen. Complacency can lose championships and determination can help win them.

By the way, amateur riders must be careful not to compromise their status. I’ve heard amateurs announce they are being “supported” by companies giving them free products. This counts as financial gain and so breaks the rules.

Where hunters belong

South of England is one of the most enjoyable shows in the calendar, with one of the best main rings in the country, so why were its Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) hunter qualifiers withdrawn in 2014? I wish HOYS organiser Grandstand Media would explain its allocation system.

Here was a traditional show, complete with a parade of hounds, in a densely populated, easily accessible part of the UK. The organisers work hard to attract riders and spectators alike, and riders were dismayed when hunter qualifiers disappeared. The same thing happened at Bramham, which again gave hunter exhibitors an ideal environment.

South of England had a fair number of qualifiers, but hunters and cobs — the categories that belong in such a great main ring — missed out. Let’s hope there’s a rethink for 2017.

Finally, some lovely intermediates of true hack type caught my eye at Derby Festival. Why are some intermediate riders nervous of entering hack classes, which often have fewer entries than those for intermediates?

Intermediates were designed to be a stepping stone to “adult” classes, not as a social hangout for under-25s who want to compete with their friends. Be brave — you’ll surprise yourself, and might even beat some of us oldies.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 23 June 2016

Katie Jerram: Whatever else happens, this win will be hard to top H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Tue, 31 May 2016 07:55:01 +0000

A week after wonderful Royal Windsor, I’m still buzzing. Whatever else happens in my showing career, winning the Tattersalls Retraining of Racehorses championship on Barbers Shop (pictured), the last horse bred by the Queen Mother and owned by Her Majesty The Queen, will be hard to top.

Standing supreme at the Royal International or Horse of the Year Show is unforgettable, but Windsor gave me the most moving experience of my career. There was enormous pressure on me and my team, but think how ride judge Vicki Fahey must have felt.

Riding The Queen’s home-bred horse for the first time, under her watchful eye, as part of the celebrations for her 90th birthday, must have been a real test of nerve. Vicki, who alternated rides with Sam de Caprio, drew Barbers Shop and I think she enjoyed it as much as he did.

We have some fantastic younger ride judges on the panels and shows must make the most of them by allowing them to partner experienced conformation judges. There are many older judges who still do a superb job, but no one goes on forever.

I hope that when I get to that stage, I’ll recognise it — or that a fellow competitor will politely suggest that I hang up my ride judge boots and stick to conformation.

At the start of the season, someone told me she’d decided to step down from the ride panels. That takes courage, but if you find you’re no longer enjoying the opportunity to ride different and sometimes unknown horses, it’s the only course of action.

Phenomenal pageant

The pageant was a triumph and those of us who took part will treasure the experience.

I always knew that Barbers Shop was special, but was amazed at his behaviour and that of all the others who rose to the occasion.

We started rehearsals on the Monday, and for an ex-racehorse to stand like a rock amid the cheering and the flares, then compete as normal on the Thursday, was something even I couldn’t have hoped for.

The planning behind it all was phenomenal and I hope those who couldn’t be there enjoyed the televised performance. Everyone will have a favourite and I know many admired 13-year-old Kinvara Garner’s representation of the young Princess Elizabeth — both she and Becki Penny’s Fell stallion, Townend Schubert, wowed the crowds.

Another who caught the eye was Zara Phillips’ retired event horse, Toytown. He was in fantastic condition and belied his 23 years.

I’m so sorry for those who missed out on Wednesday’s classes and performance because of the first day’s cancellation. Windsor’s novice classes are much prized and it was such a shame we lost the novice hunter and riding horse classes, as well as those for amateurs.

There aren’t enough novice classes on the circuit, and there are very few between now and the end of the year. They always draw the spectators at Windsor, because you can guarantee seeing some future stars, and to win a novice class there is extra special.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 26 May 2016

Barbers Shop triumphs for The Queen at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Lucy Elder — Thu, 12 May 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Barbers Shop and Katie Jerram gave The Queen another reason to celebrate on the week of her 90th birthday extravaganza at Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Her Majesty looked delighted as her ex-racehorse won the overall title in the Tattersalls and Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Ridden Show Horse Championship minutes after winning the national hunt section.

The 14-year-old bay gelding, by Sadlers Hall, has enjoyed success in RoR classes here on a number of occasions in recent years.

Before swapping to a glittering showing career, Barbers Shop was in training with Nicky Henderson. He ran 24 times under Rules and had eight wins.

Katie told H&H that the win today was “the icing on the cake”.

“I was more apprehensive than I have ever been,” she said. “I adore the horse so much – he tries his hardest.”

She added she was not sure how he would cope as he has been here since Monday and has had a few late nights with rehearsals for the birthday celebrations, which they are taking part in.

“He was absolutely superb, as he always is,” she said. “He is just such a lovely gent.”

Change of career

More ex-racehorses were in action later in the afternoon in the RoR and Thoroughbred Breeders Association Retrained Racehorse Challenge Championship.

Combinations are asked to jump a course of eight fences (between 2’6” and 3’6” in height) before performing an individual show.

It is judged 50% on jumping, 20% for style while jumping and performance, and 30% for show, manners and suitability to be retrained.

Winner Jenny Cowen, with her own Mokum, shared some tips on how she prepared her 15-year-old bay gelding for the competition.

“Patience, lots of lesson and schooling religiously,” she said.

“I make sure he hacks twice a week so he stays nice and relaxed, and he has a friend out in the field.

“I have really worked on my flat work to get him going correctly, which then just paid dividends for the jumping.”

Katie Jerram: ‘We need to use or lose young horse classes’ H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sat, 23 Apr 2016 07:55:29 +0000

In my last column, I pleaded for more novice worker classes. It struck a chord, as many riders have told me they feel the same.

The answer could be for Sport Horse Breeding (GB) to insist that shows who apply for Royal International (RIHS) working hunter qualifiers can only hold them if they also put on a

class for novice workers.

This would ensure early season opportunities and would help safeguard open classes by giving young horses a good grounding.

Invaluable show time

You can practise until the cows come home, but you can’t replicate show atmosphere. Once we had plenty of classes for four-year-old hunters, but now they are few and far between.

Is it because competitors don’t appreciate their value, or because they worry that their horses aren’t ready? I entered a four-year-old class recently and found myself giving a solo performance.

The judge did a great job, but the classes that are available need our support. It’s the “use it or lose it” scenario, as shows will only be encouraged to hold them if the existing ones attract sufficient entries.

Some riders worry that their animals aren’t ready, but you need to get ring experience into young horses without over-showing them. Four or five shows a year will make a huge difference to a four-year-old’s confidence and allow you to move forward in his career.

If I’m not sure whether a four-year-old will cope, I’ll take him, ride him around the showground and make a judgement call. If you don’t do that, you could find yourself months later still trying to make up your mind as to whether he’s ready.

Male judges in particular are coping with the annual early season jacket challenge, where horses are sometimes startled by the back of a rider’s jacket flipping up and down. Most of us spend the winter riding in jackets which don’t have rear vents, so it’s easy to forget — even if you’re a professional who should know better — that we need to acclimatise young horses and remind some older ones.

Winter weight issues

Judges are also commenting that more animals than usual, particularly natives, have wintered a little too well. In other words, they’re too fat.

A wet winter forced some owners to keep ponies in more than usual. If exercise is restricted and feed is increased, there’s only one outcome.

The answer is to cut hard feed and do some serious fittening work. The keynote is long, slow distance work: lots of walking and, if you can, trotting steadily up hills.

Finally, it’s great to see quality entrants in early SEIB Search for a Star classes. Sadly, some competitors aren’t studying the rules properly and arrive to find that they’re ineligible. For instance, any horse produced in a professional showing yard can’t compete, although it may have been purchased from a professional before January 2016 and riders can have lessons with professionals. Reading rule books isn’t fun, but it’s better than being disappointed.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 21 April 2016

Katie Jerram: Are some riders too heavy for their ponies? H&H VIP

Horse & Hound — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 14:55:41 +0000

The season has started with a familiar debate resurfacing. Are some mountain and moorland (M&M) riders too heavy for their ponies?

Discussion centres on classes for Welsh sections A and B, which are obviously not bred or built to carry as much weight as, say, Highlands. However, there is another side to this question, which is often overlooked.

Riders who may not be too heavy for their ponies but are taller than ideal often pull up their stirrups to try and make themselves look shorter in the leg, thus presenting what they feel is a more balanced picture. Doing this does nothing for your riding or your pony.

Instead, it teaches you to ride behind the movement, with a fixed hand, rather than riding from your legs, seat and core muscles. By riding from your seat, I mean using your weight as a directional aid, not driving your weight into the saddle.

Before anyone points out that jockeys ride with even shorter stirrups, race riding is a unique discipline. Jockeys keep their weight out of the saddle; whereas we show riders need to use our weight to help our horses and ponies without hindering them.

Let’s encourage novices

A new season underlines the importance of novice classes and why we need more opportunities for novice workers. We all have our favourite shows for bringing out horses in flat classes, but workers lose out.

Open classes, with courses of eight to 12 fences at a maximum height of 1.14m (3ft 9in), are a huge challenge for less experienced horses, even if they are bold and naturally talented. No matter how much work you put in at home, nothing is a substitute for the real thing, but shows offering proper rustic courses designed to encourage novice horses, and venues offering them for hire, are as rare as hens’ teeth.

Like most riders, I take horses showjumping through the winter to build all-round experience. But while you still need to jump in a rhythm, showjumping courses aren’t built to encourage the same flowing strides judges want to see from a working hunter. Arena eventing is another option, but again, it’s a different challenge.

A new series?

British Show Pony Society (BSPS) members have a winter circuit and can find ideal opportunities for novice working hunter ponies. It’s sometimes possible to compete novice horses at BSPS shows hors concours, but although this presents you with a well-designed rustic course, it will be built on shorter distances.

So come on, show organisers: you’re missing a trick and losing out on entry fees. If you hold a working show horse class, run novice working hunter entries afterwards. Ditto local working hunter classes, as at South Suffolk Show — rebrand it as a novice worker class, with special prizes for the highest-placed local entries.

Open working hunter classes aren’t starter material. I’d love to see a novice worker series over 1m (3ft 3in) courses with a final at a prestigious show, ideally the Royal International Horse Show.

I would put my money on it attracting sponsors, competitors and spectators — what do you think?

Ref: Horse & Hound; 24 March 2016

11 training books to give your riding and stable management a boost

Madeleine Silver — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 10:05:29 +0000

Whether you're keen to improve your core strength, lungeing techniques or posture, take a look at these equestrian training books on the market

‘Rider + Horse = 1’

By Eckart Meyners with Hannes Muller and Kerstin Riemann

The blurb: Equestrian sports physiologist Eckart Meyners, and Hannes Muller, head instructor for the German National Riding School, have put together 60 exercises for horse and rider — beginning with a thorough explanation of the classical training scale and a six-step program to build balance and rhythm.

Price: £18.99

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-32-2

Visit: halebooks.com

‘The complete guide to polo’

By Lauren Dibble

The blurb: A beginner’s guide to the sport of polo, with simple explanations of playing techniques and skills, rules and equipment.

Price: £25

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-34-6

Visit: halebooks.com

‘Katie Jerram’s Modern Horse Management’

By Katie Jerram and Carolyn Henderson

The blurb: Improve your stable management skills with this blueprint for modern horse husbandry — from stables and shelters to horse health and first aid.

Price: £22.50

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-27-8

Visit: halebooks.com

Continued below…

(Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

6 horsey film and TV bloopers VIDEO

From loose horses, Johnny Depp's saddle slipping and a serious booting, films and TV shows have provided us with som

‘Lungeing, Long-Reining and In-Hand Schooling’

By Claire Lilley

The blurb: A practical, illustrated guide to the art of training horses from the ground.

Price: £19.99

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-26-1

Visit: halebooks.com

‘Posture and Performance’

By Gillian Higgins with Stephanie Martin

The blurb: This illustrated book looks at how to deliver a safe, varied, fun, effective and achievable training programme, based on the principles of anatomy and biomechanics with welfare in mind.

Price: £19.95

Publisher: Kenilworth Press

ISBN: 978-1-910016-00-8

Visit: www.quillerpublishing.com

‘Training and Riding with Cones and Poles’

By Sigrid Schöpe

The blurb: Over 40 exercises to improve your horse’s focus and response to the aids, while sharpening your timing and accuracy.

Price: £12.99

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-36-0

Visit: halebooks.com

‘The Dressage Horse Optimized’

By Jim Masterson

The blurb: This book fills the gap that often exists between trainers, riders and equine-bodywork therapists when it comes to understanding how the dressage horse uses his body in performance. Learn hands-on ways he can help optimise his suppleness, flexibility, balance and movement.

Price: £21.99

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-35-3

Visit: halebooks.com

‘My Way: How I Train For Success’

By Mary King

The blurb: The eventer opens her doors to reveal the formulas she uses on a daily basis and how they apply to every aspiring equestrian — from the working rider enjoying the grassroots levels through to those dreaming of representing their country.

Price: £25

Publisher: Acanthus Press

ISBN: 978-0-9929951-0-2

Visit: www.acanthuspress.co.uk

‘Lunging and Long-Reining’

By Jennie Loriston-Clarke

The blurb: A step-by-step guide to the art of training, exercising and suppling horses from the ground, by one of the world’s leading exponents of the art. Starting with training foals and young horses, Jennie works through to perfecting in-hand piaffe and passage.

Price: £18.95

Publisher: Quiller Publishing

ISBN: 9781872119533

Visit: www.quillerpublishing.com

‘Perfect Mind: Perfect Ride’

By Inga Wolframm

The blurb: Hands-on advice on how to develop relevant attitudes and mental skills, making this an essential companion for riders wanting to get more out of the sport.

Price: £16.95

Publisher: Kenilworth Press

ISBN: 978-1-910016-04-6

Visit: www.quillerpublishing.com

‘Equestrian Pilates’

By Sue Gould-Wright

The blurb: Use Sue’s ‘do-anywhere’ Pilates exercises to improve your riding postion and effecivness in the saddle, eliminate rider faults, improve core stability and perform yard tasks safely and efficiently.

Price: £15.99

Publisher: J.A. Allen

ISBN: 978-1-908809-33-9

Visit: halebooks.com

Katie Jerram: 2016 success starts now H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 08:55:28 +0000

The showing season has only just ended and already I’m hearing riders say that they have withdrawal symptoms. Think positive, because success in 2016 starts now.

I’m a firm believer that for some horses — and people — a change is as good as a rest. I love this time of year, which is all about starting youngsters’ education and ironing out schooling problems with older horses before they go into winter mode.

They say you should never go to sleep without settling a quarrel, so if you plan to give a horse a break, smooth out any rough edges before you do so. It means you finish on a good note, in a relaxed environment.

I often take younger horses to dressage and jumping shows, with an eye on their education rather than on winning rosettes. If a horse can walk, trot and canter a circle, he can manage a prelim or novice test, and it all helps teach him how to work in with other horses and listen to his rider in unfamiliar surroundings.

Similarly, horses being aimed at workers will go showjumping, where they’ll be asked to jump in a good rhythm but never pushed against the clock. They enjoy it, we enjoy it and horses gain valuable experience and confidence.

We’ve all had to accept changes this season: many good, some of which still need tweaking. It’s good that the Showing Council has gained a consensus from all the societies on safety hats; getting so many to agree is an achievement in itself.

BS/EN1384 standard hats, which many showing riders prefer, will be permitted throughout next year by all its member bodies. However, shows’ own rules take precedence. Many shows specify that PAS015 hats, which meet higher safety standards and always incorporate a harness, must be worn.

It’s further complicated by that fact that although riders have freedom of choice at Horse of the Year Show, when competing in qualifiers they are governed by the host show’s rules. This applies particularly to the county circuit.

Shows that listen

Regular readers will know that earlier this year, I criticised the Suffolk Show when a walkway clash between horses and cattle nearly ended in an accident. Riders and cattle handlers were vulnerable, so I’m pleased to report that show organisers listened to our complaints and have taken steps to make sure it can’t happen again.

Surrey County Show organisers also asked for input on how the show could be improved for riders. The result of that meeting is that next year’s show will give more space in which to warm up and better prize money in the championships, steps which should boost entries.

These are both wonderful county shows and it’s great to know that we have improved versions to look forward to. The organisers of Stoneleigh Show also promised to act on feedback from riders for 2016; it wasn’t the Royal Show reborn and there were teething problems, but it’s so exciting to be back at this venue.

Enjoy your Christmas and New Year. Next season will be here faster than you think.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 5 November 2015

Katie Jerram bids farewell to two showing stars

Rachael Turner — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 17:00:45 +0000

Leading show rider and producer Katie Jerram has lost two of her star hunters.

Grey veterans Mr Wrinkles (“Wrinky”) and Mountain Road (“Monty”) were put down last month (19 October) following complications due to old age.

H&H columnist Katie had owned Wrinky since he was five years old and she had produced Monty from the same age.

Wrinky was in his late teens when he died and Monty was 22.

“It was a very sad day, but the pair of them had a wonderful life,” Katie told H&H.

“Wrinky had a long career in the worker ring. He competed at Horse of the Year Show every year and was placed but never won — he was very consistent.

“He was the comfiest pair of slippers you could have put on. He had a fantastic innings.

“I used to jump him into the school — he would never say no to anything. He was the nicest, happiest horse you could have owned.”

Wrinky was sore in front so stopped jumping four years ago. He also had a collagen inefficiency that Katie had managed throughout his life.

He was on antibiotics for the last two years and had started lying down more frequently.

“I said enough was enough — he was uncomfortable and you have to realise the time has come,” Katie said.

Monty was owned and ridden by Ann McCarthy.

“He was a true gent and his best friend was Ann,” said Katie. “He had a very successful career and won at the Royal International as an amateur horse.”

Monty retired from the show ring when he was nine. He had OCD in his hocks and became very stiff towards the end of his life.

Katie has been inspired to start working hunter classes again in memory of Wrinky and Monty.

“I’ve just got two lovely young ones — Lighweight Gortglas Rinarinca (“Ringo”) and Ballycreen His Lordship (“Lordie”).

“I jumped for the first time since jumping Mr Wrinkles and they were just lovely.”

UK equestrian sponsorship round-up

Lucy Elder — Sun, 11 Oct 2015 09:55:53 +0000

ReadySupp

Showing producer Katie Jerram is joining the feed supplement manufacturer’s team as one of its professional riders.

Katie, an H&H columnist, has been producing show horses from her Essex base for more than 25 years and her clients include The Queen.

“In the short time I have been using ReadySupp Grumpy Girth, Shine On, and Ultra Calm, the difference in conditon and temperament is astonishing,” said Katie.

Liverpool International CSI4*

A host of major sponsors have been revealed for Liverpool International CSI4* at the Echo Arena on 1-3 January.

The title sponsor is online retailer Equestrian.com, who is also sponsoring the Liverpool International Grand Prix that will be held as part of the Sunday evening finale.

Joining them is Equerry Horse Feeds, who will be sponsoring the 1.45m speed class, and supplement company Equitop Myoplast — sponsors of the puissance.

Equestrian clothing brand Equiline has also been confirmed as the official clothing partner.

“We are very fortunate to have so many fantastic brands and businesses supporting Liverpool International Horse Show 2016 and very much look forward to working alongside them to make the event a huge success,” said show president Nina Barbour.

The event begins with a New Year’s Eve party on Liverpool’s waterfront before the jumping kicks-off on 1 January.

Skinner’s Pet Foods

The dog food manufacturer is sponsoring the British Team Chasing National Championships.

The sponsorship deal includes this season and the next three years.

The 2015/16 season began on 30 August with the Warwickshire hunt’s event at Southam and culminates at the final at the Heythrop team chase, Little Compton, in April.

“We’re looking forward to meeting a great many of our customers and to enjoying some wonderful sport,” said the company’s sales and marketing director William Delamore.

Griffin NuuMed

The UK designer and producer of equestrian products is sponsoring H&H blogger and para dressage rider Suzanna Hext.

Suzanna was competing at two-star level eventing before an accident while riding a young horse in 2012 left her with serious injuries.

She won her first national para-title at the Para Restricted Summer Championships in Solihull in August, and earlier this month she was accepted onto the 2015-17 British Equestrian Federation Excel Talent Programme.

“The sponsorship from NuuMed means a huge amount to me and will help with my Paralympic ambitions,” she said.

Amlin Plus

Dressage rider Lousie Robson has signed a sponsorship deal with the equine insurance specialists.

Buckinghamshire-based Louise specialises in the retraining of ex-racehorses.

Last month, she won the advanced medium freestyle at the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) championships, Houghton Hall, aboard Quadrille — owned and bred by the Queen.

She is also set to travel to Kentucky to compete in the Retired Racehorse Makeover Project (23-25 October) with ex-racer Tinchy Rider.

“She has already seen much success on ex racehorses in the dressage ring here in the UK and Amlin Plus wish her the best of luck in Kentucky this October and for the coming year,” said David Ashby, the company’s managing director.

Katie Jerram: a warning for riders heading to HOYS H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 07:55:28 +0000

The Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) championships at Aintree wasn’t just a show. It was proof that when riders share a passion, it brings out the best in us.

Standing supreme on Barbers Shop (pictured) was one of my proudest moments. But everyone there could be equally proud: it wasn’t just about the rosettes, it was about showcasing ex-racehorses’ versatility and enjoying seeing so many looking happy and well-loved in their new careers.

Aintree International Equestrian Centre is so airy and light you hardly believe you are in an indoor school. Everyone from volunteers manning the car park, to stable managers, stewards and organiser Carly Goodall, was cheerful and helpful.

It was a privilege to see Grand National winner Neptune Collonges and other big winners parade, and I enjoyed the RoR musical ride team’s performance. Both ramped up the feel-good factor.

The organisers borrowed a clever initiative from the Royal Dublin Show by inviting spectators to “judge” some of the classes from the ringside. I hope more shows will borrow or adapt the idea.

It attracts spectators and, perhaps, shows that judging isn’t as easy as people think. At Dublin, there’s the added incentive that if your choices match the judges’, you can win €1,000 (£725). Perhaps we could see if the judges’ choices in one or two classes match the ringside ones and, if not, have rosettes for both riders.

A pre-HOYS investment

Stoneleigh Show has been another talking point. It was good to be back on the old showground and inevitably, many people expected it to be the Royal Show reborn.

It wasn’t. It was a new venture and there were several areas that needed improving. You always get teething problems but the organisers, Grandstand Media, listened to complaints and did well to make changes there and then.

Ground conditions meant ring sites had to be changed at short notice, and some in-hand competitors were unhappy about the going. The indoor school was fantastic, like riding in the Caldene arena at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), and both this show and Aintree gave a practice run for horses heading to Birmingham.

I’m surprised how many people head for HOYS assuming that their horses will adapt to an electric indoor environment after a summer outdoors. Some will, but many won’t, so if you don’t have access to an indoor school, hiring one for a few sessions before you get to Birmingham would be a good investment.

I’m finishing this column in between classes at a wet Edenbridge and Oxted show. Indoor facilities are lovely, but we mustn’t forget that agricultural and county shows are vital – and when the rain stops, you can’t beat them!

RIP Grand Slam

I was sad to hear that Jill Day has lost her six-year-old hunter, Grand Slam. Rob and Sarah Walker and everyone who looked after him will be devastated — it’s heartbreaking to lose any horse, but there’s an extra poignancy when the life of one who had a brilliant future is cut short.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 10 September 2015

Wild cards give showing riders extra HOYS qualification

Rachael Turner — Sat, 05 Sep 2015 08:55:58 +0000

A new wild card scheme will give showing enthusiasts further chances to qualify for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

The initiative, launched this year, will reward consistently well placed competitors in the HOYS showing qualifiers.

There will be one wild card across all of the ridden pony classes and one wild card across all of the ridden horse classes.

“The wild cards recognise the high quality of dependable performers who may have previously been unsuccessful in qualifying,” said a spokesman for HOYS.

“Some competitors were placed second in large classes on up to five separate occasions, demonstrating that these horses and ponies are of very high standards.”

H&H columnist and leading show producer Katie Jerram welcomed the news.

“It’s a super opportunity for someone that’s been the bridesmaid but never the bride,” she told H&H.

“I hope it goes to an amateur competitor — they’re the ones that travel up and down the country to go the qualifiers.”

The wild card system will tie into the most consistent award series, which takes place for the third time in the run-up to this year’s HOYS (7-11 October).

Riders who receive the most consistent award are rewarded for their continued high placings in qualifiers, even if they do not win a ticket to HOYS.

This year, all horses and ponies that top their relevant ridden section of the awards but who have not already qualified for HOYS, will have the chance to be awarded a wild card entry.

The best five results of each horse and pony earned throughout the 2015 season will be considered. The calculation will be the same system used to decide the awards — five points for a win, counting back to one point for fifth place.

The horse and pony with the highest number of points will then be awarded a wild card.

In the event of a tie, there will be a live draw hosted on the HOYS website to allocate the wild card.

A HOYS spokesman confirmed that it is the horse or pony that qualifies through the wild card system, regardless of who is riding them.

Katie added that the prospect of a wild card might give qualifying shows a boost in competitor numbers.

“The only thing that concerns me is that owners and riders might go to too many qualifiers to be in with a chance,” she said.

“Also I think it should be the same rider on the same horse.”

Amateur show rider Chris Sage embraced the scheme.

“It’s definitely a good thing,” he said.

“It would be nice for someone new and fresh to get the chance to qualify.

“I haven’t been riding for very long and it would encourage me to compete — I’m desperate to get to the bigger shows.”

Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s 6 steps to the perfect tail plait

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sun, 30 Aug 2015 11:05:03 +0000

In her book Modern Horse Management, showing supremo Katie Jerram-Hunnable gives a step-by-step guide to get the perfect tail plait

If you want to plait your horse’s mane but prefer to leave him with a full tail rather than shaping or pulling it, you may want to plait the hair in the dock area for competing so the horse’s hind quarters are shown off to the best possible effect. This only works if the hair at the top of the dock is long enough to get the plait started.

How to plait your horse’s tail

Step one

Take a small piece of hair from each side at the top of the tail. Cross them over, then take a third piece from one side. This gives you the three sections of your plait.

(Image credit: John Henderson)

Step two

Take in extra hair each time you pass a side piece over the centre one, so you build bars of hairs down each side of the tail, with a central plait. The key points for making a neat tail plait are to take the same amount of hair each time and keep the plaiting taut. If you let it slacken, your side bars will be lopsided and your centre plait will veer off to one side.

Step three

If you pass the side sections over the top of the centre one each time, your central plait will lie flat. If you pass the side sections underneath the centre one, you will create a raised plait.

Step four

Plait down until you reach a level that suits your horse’s conformation: usually, about two-thirds of the way down the dock. Carry on plaiting, but don’t take in any more side hairs.

Step five

When you get to the end, double up and stitch, then pass the needle from front to back. Double up the long plait to the bottom of the side bars and push the needle from back to front. You can either leave the plait as a loop, or stitch down so it lies flat.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Step six

Having plaited a tail, you can put a tail bandage or tail guard on your horse to travel him as usual, but you will need to unwrap it to remove it. Don’t forget and pull a bandage down from the top, or you’ll spoil your work.

“Mud tails”

Some people like to make “mud tails” – also known as mud knots – for hunting, fastening up the hair below the dock so it doesn’t get wet and muddy. I’ve occasionally done this when we’ve been hunting point-to-pointers to qualify them, but wouldn’t do it on a sensitive horse. The tail becomes solid and heavy and, if the horse swishes it, it can hit them on the flanks and provoke an undesirable reaction.

There are several ways to make a mud tail. The method I prefer is to plait the top of the tail as described above, then braid the long hairs below the dock into a single plait, stitch the bottom to secure it and finally double up the long plait and stitch it down the centre as with a mane plait.

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Katie Jerram: Excellent ideas to improve showing H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 07:55:23 +0000

Sitting by the ring, watching one young rider after another misinterpret a steward’s instructions on performing a set show, got me thinking. When a set show is required, why can’t it be posted at the collecting ring or available in the show secretary’s office beforehand?

In showjumping, the jump-off course is pinned up in the collecting ring. Showing could follow suit and make life easier and simpler for everyone.

Look what happens in our sport: a judge pulls in an initial line-up and the first rider is immediately under pressure. So many times, the first one to go makes a mistake and other competitors — who have been watching rather than listening — follow suit. Being able to study and learn a set show beforehand would allow riders to prepare and show off their ponies or horses to their best advantage, and help classes run smoothly and to time.

I always enjoy hearing other competitors’ suggestions, and someone approached me recently with what I think is an excellent idea. The rider suggested that when there is a change of judge for a class, there should automatically be a window of at least 24 hours for competitors to substitute for another horse, if necessary.

Sometimes, judge changes mean that you can no longer ride the horse you intended because the judge has a connection with it. There are also times when you know it isn’t worth competing under a particular judge as he or she doesn’t like the horse you’ve entered.

That’s not a criticism of judges: showing is subjective, which means some judges will always prefer a particular type or way of going. You get to know judges’ tastes and when you make your entries, there’s no point in setting yourself up for failure when past experience tells you that someone has reservations about a particular horse.

Masterpieces of design

I’ve just come back from Royal Dublin Show, one of my favourite horsey breaks. I look forward to seeing some of the purchases that are heading over here come out on our showing circuit.

Huge congratulations to the British Connemara Pony Society’s international Connemara performance hunter team, who came a close second to the Irish team. Talk about taking coals to Newcastle — there were only one-and-a-half marks between the two.

Chef d’equipe Debbie Nickson tells me that the course was big and bold with a bogey fence that caught out every rider save one. That was Britain’s Victoria Jones on Garry Knight, with the only clear round of the competition. What an achievement.

Pats on the back, too, for Amy Smith on Laburnum Richard, second-highest placed individual; Claire Somerset, British team trailblazer on Golden Island Star and Henrietta Horsley-Gubbins on the five-year-old Hazelrock Rebellion. And let’s not forget the helpers and supporters, who gave the team such support.

All the workers’ courses were masterpieces of design. There were enough questions and they rewarded bold horses and riders, but also encouraged a forward, flowing style. Classes were a pleasure to watch, and in the four-year-old class every horse had its ears pricked with enjoyment — just how it should be.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 20 August 2015

Katie Jerram: Proof that amateurs can beat the pros H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 07:55:12 +0000

I have said before in this column that a championship is a separate class and you have to find something extra. By definition, a supreme championship takes it to the limit, as this year’s Royal International proved.

All credit to Jayne Ross on supreme champion Time 2 Reflect — but I know she’ll agree that Jordan Cook, reserve on his small hack, Fleetwater Xecutive, gave her a close run for her money after they finished on joint marks and prompted a two-horse ride-off.

As an amateur, Jordan brought this horse through from the Search For A Star series and then served his professional “apprenticeship” with Pearl Underwood. He’s worked hard and should be an inspiration to all amateurs dreaming of making showing a career and hitting the big time.

Congratulations, too, to the Eddis family and their supreme pony, the 133cm working hunter Beat The Boss. It’s rare for a worker to take this title, especially in such strong company.

The horse working hunter champions, Katrina Braithwaite on Kilderry Rupert, deserved their accolade. They jumped a fabulous clear and the horse has a great attitude. Katrina produces him from home —more proof that amateurs can beat professionals.

Coping with change

British Skewbald and Piebald Association day saw a total of 245 entries; the smallest class had 18 forward and the largest, 47. Some classes did their go-round in one ring, then were switched to another for the judge’s ride section. I hear some riders felt this unsettled their horses, but it kept classes running to time.

At this level, horses should adapt to different surroundings and I’m told the second ring was quieter — which should have been an advantage. Changes always spark some complaints, but you must have new ideas and I bet that next year, riders will accept the set-up. The alternative might have been to cut down on the number of qualifying places, which would have been far more unpopular.

The Ponies (UK) Dalkeith young riders M&M classes give young riders the chance to compete within limited age groups, without adults. Apparently some competitors would be happier if a marks system was used, so riders have a better idea of what judges were looking for.

Riders get used to the British Show Pony Society and National Pony Society marks systems, and many amateurs tell me they like to see where they can improve their ride marks. I grew up in the days before marks, so it isn’t something I get hot under the collar about.

As a judge, it can be useful to make notes when you have a big class, so you don’t miss entrants who deserve to be moved up. But at a show of this calibre, top judges are quite capable of working without marks — though organisers might want to think about it if there’s sufficient disquiet.

Finally, we should thank the stewards and officials; too often they are unsung heroes.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 6 August 2015

Katie Jerram: Breaking an unspoken rule H&H VIP

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 16:25:22 +0000

Commentators and showing classes have become a talking point this season.

Traditionally, exhibitors should not be identified while a class is in progress, but some shows are breaking this unspoken rule.

I believe the idea is to make showing classes more interesting to the general public. I’m all for getting spectators interested and involved, but commentary that names horses and riders should be kept until the end of a class.

Of course judges often recognise some combinations. But just as judges shouldn’t be seen consulting a catalogue on a showground, so they should keep their earplugs in!

In a showjumping class, knowing who a horse or rider is won’t change whether the poles stay up. But as showing is subjective, the order of the first pull-in can change as the class progresses. I’ve seen line-ups changed in classes for retrained racehorses after commentators have given information on a horse’s history and winnings.

Exhibitors have to be so careful. We can wear sponsors’ jackets bearing logos and names when warming up, but a groom who forgets to swap a team jacket for an anonymous one before going in the ring may be asked to leave.

A change of track

Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) classes go from strength to strength. I watched the one at Kent County, where excitement got the better of a few horses and led to a reshuffle. This underlines my point on commentaries, but it was lovely to see horses who were initially pulled in lower down the line moved up after going beautifully and giving the judge a great ride.

It takes a good judge to sort these classes. Deciding the order of that first pull-in is difficult, and judges must have the confidence to shuffle the order when necessary.

RoR classes attract a lot of ringside interest and people from non-horsey backgrounds like the idea of racehorses changing track. This is where appropriate commentary can help, by explaining how much work goes into reschooling them.

The Great Scot! ladies’ side-saddle horse qualifiers are attracting healthy numbers.

Hunters outweigh entrants from other categories, but we now have a hack finalist through from Cheshire County and I’m sure we’ll see riding horses making the final cut.

Will we see a cob make the final? It could be done. At a recent show, an amateur rider told me how much she enjoyed competing in this class because it gave her cob another job to do.

As an added incentive, the sponsors have given vouchers for their clothing range as qualifying class prizes. What a great idea — one that more shows might be able to encourage, as it’s a boost for competitors and cost-effective for sponsors.

A job well done

I don’t often single out competitors in this column, but I must congratulate Poppy Carter for winning the North of England summer show £1,000 show pony supreme on the 128cm Rotherwood Rainmaker for the third year running. It’s a great achievement, and proves that big talent can come in small packages.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 23 July 2015

Showing star Katie Jerram comes face-to-face with masked thieves

Rachael Turner — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:55:47 +0000

Showing star and H&H columnist Katie Jerram came face-to-face with three masked thieves on her way to Kent County Show last week (Saturday 18 July).

She was driving to her yard in High Easter, Essex, at 3.45am to prepare her horses for the show.

When she drove past the nearby farm where her sister-in-law lives she noticed a quad bike was not in its usual place.

As she drove further she noticed there was also an unfamiliar vehicle parked at the entrance to the farm.

“There was a Subaru truck outside and I thought that was strange. I hadn’t seen that car there before,” Katie told H&H.

“I got out to take down the registration number when three men wearing balaclavas ran through the hedge and drove off in the truck.”

The quad bike had been taken.

She later discovered that a chainsaw was also missing from the farm.

“The quad bike was stolen from underneath our noses,” Katie added.

Katie called the police who arrived at the property the following morning (Sunday 18 July).

They found the quad bike via its tracker and it has since been returned, along with the chainsaw.

“It’s all quite frightening,” added Katie. “We’ve claimed all the stuff back but it’s not good.

“Hopefully [reclaiming the equipment] will be a deterrent so they don’t come again.”

Rural theft

There has been a recent spate in rural thefts reported on horseandhound.co.uk in recent weeks.

Earlier this month (5 – 6 July) thousands of pounds worth of tack was stolen from a stud in Wiltshire.

Saddles, bridles, bits, girths and breastplates were taken from Landford Common Stud, near Salisbury.

Less than a week earlier an estimated £15,000 worth of stock was stolen when Performance Equestrian’s base in Raunds, Northants, was broken into overnight (30 June – 1 July).

Katie Jerram: Surviving a dangerously close encounter [H&H VIP]

Katie Jerram Hunnable — Wed, 17 Jun 2015 07:55:48 +0000

After a dangerously close encounter at Suffolk Show, I wish county show organisers would ensure that horses and cattle don’t have to cross paths, and that walkway attendants have more knowledge of horses’ reactions.

When I and other riders left a class, attendants closed a gate to allow cattle to cross the horse walkway. The cattle approached from behind a solid fence, round a corner, so horses had no warning.

My horse took fright and had nowhere to go. The attendant — who I don’t blame and who was obeying standard instructions — refused to open the gate to let us through, even though there was time. My horse double-barrelled the fence, reared and then nearly went over backwards.

In 2009, at the same show, I had a similar walkway accident and nearly ended up paralysed. I appreciate that livestock are an essential part of county shows and we all enjoy seeing them, but no amount of preparation can prevent a horse being frightened by the unexpected — and when horses are frightened, their instinct is to flee.

I love Suffolk Show, but wish it would follow Royal Norfolk’s example and keep horse and livestock rings at opposite sides of the showground. I’d also like to see at least one attendant with horse knowledge on each walkway gate.

If another competitor hadn’t helped, I might not be here now. Imagine this scenario with a child on a pony.

Changing the rules

On a more cheerful note, I’m pleased that the British Show Horse Association board has added an amended guideline on maxi cobs to its rule book. It now recommends that a maxi cob should ideally be in the region of 155.1-160cm, to protect the true type.

A cob should be a short-legged animal of cob type that you can get on from the ground. We’re seeing too many tall, leggy animals who are hunter types — but not good enough to show in hunter classes — with their manes taken off.

There’s also been a good rule change in the Great Scot! ladies’ side-saddle horse of the year series, open to all show horse categories. Competitors now extend the canter rather than gallop, which — considering hacks may be among the entrants and do not gallop in their own classes — is much more sensible.

In my first Great Scot! qualifier, hunters stood first and second and a cob stood third. It will be interesting to watch statistics through the season and see how the different categories of show horse are represented.

My perfect side-saddle horse will always be a ladies’ hunter, by which I mean a lightweight hunter up to 16.2hh. However, the ladies’ hunter class evolved when riding horses weren’t on the scene, and a large riding horse could give a similar picture.

I see that Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain overturned its rule on mandatory safety hats and has gone back to allowing riders free choice on headgear. However, we will still be governed by shows’ own rules, so if you don’t want to wear a hat with a harness, check that the schedule allows you this option.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 11 June 2015

Look behind the scenes at Katie Jerram’s yard [PICTURES]

Aimi Clark — Tue, 12 May 2015 15:55:39 +0000

What does a successful competition yard look like? We’ve put together some of the best images from our Access All Areas at Katie Jerram’s Essex base, which lends itself to a fail-proof daily routine that produces champions.

6.30am

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Katie and her mother, Jill, walk on to the yard to start mixing feeds. Jill and Mike Jerram live in the farmhouse on Collins Farm, where Katie grew up. Katie travels five minutes from her home in High Easter.

6.50am

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The staff — head girl Jo Jack plus Hannah Godfrey, Kevin Joplin-Smith, Will Morton, Sophie Chambers and Katie Fox — arrive. They start delivering the feed buckets, hanging haynets and giving fresh water. There are 40 stables divided across six yards and all are deep littered, with the droppings and wet removed daily.

8am

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Katie and Jill return to the farmhouse for breakfast. This is Katie’s chance to make phone calls and send emails. Katie describes a wall calendar hanging in the kitchen as “my bible — it’s in front of me all the time”. This is a record of who is where and who is visiting every day of the year.

After breakfast Katie fills in the day’s riding plan. She rides at least nine horses a day herself, varying the routine with schooling and hacking. The Jerrams’ arable farm is two miles away and they have 800 acres of land altogether. There is also a three-and-a-half mile gallop track close by.

9am

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Katie is back on the yard by 9am latest. Several days a week she fits in training sessions, including riding clinics, makeover days and judging conferences.

1.30pm

Having been riding and/or teaching all morning, Katie likes to eat lunch on the go. Staff have an hour for lunch.

All horses are groomed in the afternoon, with manes and tails pulled as needed. Trimming takes place every day as well, rather than doing it all in one go the day before a show.

4.30pm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Stables are prepared for the evening while Katie and Jill start mixing feeds. If the team is showing the next day, loading the lorry is the final job that needs doing.

5pm

GV of the yard (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

On a normal at home day, Katie aims to finish on the yard between 5pm and 6pm.

Don’t miss Access All Areas with Katie Jerram in the 7 May 2015 issue of Horse & Hound maagazine, on sale now

Katie Jerram’s top turnout tips [VIDEO]

Aimi Clark — Fri, 08 May 2015 12:55:24 +0000

Want to impress the judge in the showring but not sure how, or wondering where you are going wrong? Showing supremo Katie Jerram shares her secrets for preparing horses to win time and time again.

1. Be systematic in your preparation for a show.

“When my horses are showing the next day they are bathed and groomed as soon as they are ridden, so that we do them as we go along rather than have masses to do at once,” says Katie. “It makes the workload more manageable and you are able to do a better job by splitting it into chunks.”

2. Keep on top of trimming and pulling manes and tails by doing it on a regular basis, rather than all in one go.

“We trim in the afternoons and we do everything — from whiskers and around the eyes, to ear hair, coronet bands and fetlocks —as needed so that we don’t have lots to do before a show.”

3. Don’t fight with a horse that dislikes being trimmed.

“I put them in the horsebox, so that they are contained in a stall. After two or three times the horse will stand in a stable to have it done without fuss. Then I know my staff are safe to do that job.”

4. Wipe oil on a horse’s coat to encourage moulting.

“It loosens the pores and double the amount of hair will fall out the next day,” explains Katie.

5. Use rugs, even in the stable.

“My horses have them on even when it’s sunny, so that their coats aren’t bleached.”

Continued below…

(Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

Sarah Emmerson: 7 tips for showing ponies successfully

If anyone knows how to be successful in the show ring it's Sarah Emmerson — here are seven secrets behind

(Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

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Do you know your hacks from your riding horses, how a Dartmoor feels compared to a Dales and why a

6. Don’t ride in spurs at home.

“If you do, when the judge gets on without them the horse will be numb to their leg.”

7. A well-schooled horse will produce a better individual show. Katie sprays temporary black lines on the surface in her arena, such as a shallow 5m loop and a 20m circle.

“Then all you have to do is follow the line and think about your riding, rather than where you are going. This is a good tip for teaching children.”

8. Make sure you are fit enough to be effective in the saddle, especially if riding is not your day job.

“When you ride horses all day every day you develop a good level of fitness. I like Pilates for strengthening the core.”

9. Vary the workload by going hacking, doing fun rides and enjoying your horse, rather than riding in an arena all the time. Your horse will be happier if he enjoys his work.

10. Educate yourself. Katie has evented, hunted and trained point-to-pointers in the past, and this experience helps her produce so many horses so successfully.

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Katie will also ride seven-year-old Fools Paradise in the small riding horse class on Saturday, while last year’s reserve in-hand coloured champion Sunbeam will contest the ridden coloured classes on the first day of the show.

Daydream, already a three-time Royal Windsor victor, as a ridden sport horse and an intermediate show riding type, will return to the show as a large hack on Friday.

The Queen’s native pony producer Lizzie Finlayson-Briant, M&M supreme in-hand champion last year with Highland pony mare Balmoral Leia, is debuting The King’s two-year-old Fell pony colt Balmoral Firework in the in-hand breed classes.

“I also have Carltonlima Emma’s granddaughter on the team. She won’t be going to Windsor, but she’s waiting in the wings at home,” Lizzie told H&H. “She’s only four and we’re not going to rush her.”

Kinvara Garner, two-time Royal Windsor part-bred champion with The Queen’s Whalton Highwayman in previous years, will also be appearing at the show riding novice hack contender Debonair II.

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Second place in the 2022 SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse final was another five-year-old, Tracey Bailey riding her own and Chris Graham’s Debt Of Honour, who was also in training with Sir Michael Stoute. By Kyllachy, the bay gelding qualified for HOYS at Onley Equestrian Centre.

Sarah Gwilliam and Sar Cassidy-Hill’s Imperial Ruby posted third.

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