“Let your older horse talk to you”, is the advice from the owner of a 28-year-old gelding enjoying his “second chance at an active life”.

Kiki Maurey’s American quarter horse Snippers Soul Rebel (Ché) was retired in 2020 as he was intermittently unlevel, then went very lame in all four feet a year later. He was diagnosed with laminitis and PPID (Cushing’s) as well as issues in his teeth.

Three years of team effort later, including top veterinary and farrier treatment and Kiki’s care, he is back in work and happy.

“When Kiki first saw Ché in his stable, it was love at first sight,” said a spokesman for Seadown Veterinary Group, which treated Ché.

“She’s always loved grey horses and she recalls loving Ché’s big liquid eyes, his large cheeks, tiny ears and a lively intelligence.”

Kiki had painful joints and was considering hanging up her riding boots when she heard about five-year-old Ché. Her now ex-partner thought she had bought an overpriced New Forest pony but “thankfully it was my money, so no contest”, Kiki said.

Kiki competed and trained in western disciplines, settling on reining as her competitive discipline of choice. They were Garden of England Winter Circuit 2010 Rookie Circuit champions, trained with British Reining team member Doug Allen and competed with some of the best in Europe.

Their last competition was in 2012, after which they hacked out until Ché’s first retirement, at which time Kiki bought another horse.

Karolina Kalka, who came to see Ché when he went lame, X-rayed his feet.

“The radiographic study revealed subtle signs of chronic laminitis that had been overlooked for a while, due to a low level of discomfort being masked by the horse,” she said. “I took a blood sample and discovered that he also had early PPID that could have been associated with an insidious onset of laminar separation within the hoof capsule and mild rotation of the coffin bone. It was not that easy to spot as Ché had none of the classical appearance of early-onset PPID, having a good quality coat, preserved reasonable condition of his musculature and a normal demeanour. The horizontal position of the palmar processes of the coffin bone (flattened position) in the left fore hoof was associated with a mild but persistent discomfort exhibited by Che.”

Dental assessment showed he had multiple diastemata (enlarged spaces between his teeth), which had induced periodontal disease and discomfort.

Ché was put on a strict diet with limited turnout and medicated. He lost muscle but his next blood counts were positive, and he was shod in front with mesh and gel to give him support.

His condition improved but Kiki learned she had to be strict with his diet. The PPID affected his hoof quality but an assortment of foot pads and hoof boots kept him comfortable.

“I’ve learned my lesson: I need to be able to see a slight shadow from his ribs, avoid moving the electric fences too much, and avoid cereals, sugar beet, molasses or oil in his feed, giving damped good quality hay instead,” Kiki said. “And whenever the weather allows, put turnout hoof boots and pads on his front feet to protect his naturally thin soles.”

Kiki said Ché’s recovery has been a team effort, but that the horse himself is the key.

“With an exceptional work ethic he nudges me if we don’t ride out every few days,” she said. “A highly charismatic little horse, he fought as much as I did for his rehabilitation and still goes through all the many western dressage exercises in my back field with gusto. This builds muscle strength – even at a walk. Secondly, Karolina has a great mind and she’s been genuinely interested in getting Ché back to work. Finally, working with The Hoof Boutique was essential in finding the right boots for when Ché couldn’t take metal shoes and couldn’t tolerate going barefoot. All this taken together with a new farrier, has worked fabulously.”

Ché shows “no signs of slowing down” despite his age.

“After years of chronic knee pain, I’m now on a waiting list for a knee replacement,” said Kiki. “I’m as lame as a crow but riding western on a highly responsive and intelligent quarter horse allows me to continue being active. Ché keeps himself in self-carriage on very little contact, never trips, needs no kicking on, and is obedient to neck-reining and my voice. When I mount, we feel like one and he returns to me the thrill of freedom of movement and speed I once experienced in my youth. As for getting off, he patiently stands four-square while I carefully heave myself to the ground, doing the same when I mount, positioning himself perfectly by the mounting block, never moving until my old bum settles in the saddle. And then we’re off.”

Kiki’s advice to other owners includes finding a vet who will work with the farrier and being prepared to change habits.

“Let your old horse talk to you,” she said. “Some older horses thrive with having a job.

“Lots of cuddles, blanket changes and grooming, like with us humans, physical comfort brings its own rewards – I think Ché heals me, and I heal him.”

Karolina added that Ché is an “excellent example of an elderly horse that thrives thanks to the owner, who insists on maintaining a good quality of life of her beloved horse”.

“It is a time-consuming and demanding process, but thankfully, is equally rewarding,” she said.

“Geriatric medicine should mean more than just reducing pain originating from poorly defined sources with bute. Resolution of the discomfort can be achieved in many cases and it should be sought, as there can be a reasonable solution easily available that might change not only your horse’s life, but also your own!

“Ché can now enjoy the twilight period of his life to the very fullest extent, and I couldn’t be more proud.”

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An unorthodox training regime has helped propel Dutch dressage rider Dinja van Liere into the big time. A newcomer to five-star competition in 2021, Dinja won individual bronze at the world championships last year on Hermes NOP, and impressed at the Commercial Bank CDI Al Shaqab last weekend (24 February) with second string Hartsuijker to win the grand prix. They scored 75.15% to take the victory, 2.28% ahead of Patrik Kittel and Touchdown. José Antonio Garcia Mena was third on 72.26.

For the past four years, Dinja has been training with reining champion Rieky Young, which is an unusual path for an elite dressage rider. However, the two disciplines have an alliance, especially in the Netherlands – Anky van Grunsven switched to reining after retiring from international dressage.

“My trainer Rieky Young rides in reining, but it’s really that she’s a horsewoman,” Dinja explained. “With Hermes she’s done such a good job, but also with this horse. She really understands him and his needs. It’s a perfect fit, and makes him a very happy athlete – which is what is most important for me in a horse.”

The aesthetics of reining and dressage may be superficially worlds apart, but Dinja outlined why her system works.

“It’s about taking it back to basics,” she said. “With reining or dressage it’s the same principle, you want them really light in your hand and in front of your leg, to be straight and carrying his own body. It’s the same whether you’re doing reining, or dressage or jumping. I can ride a good overall test, but Rieky is great working on the basics and makes sure that when I do exercises I get those basics right. She’s really sharp on that, which helps me a lot.”

But Dinja is not tempted to follow her compatriot Anky into reining competitions.

“I’ve only tried reining once, on one of Rieky’s horses, who was really easy,” she said.

Dinja van Liere: ‘He really wants to please me’

Dinja was delighted with her “very sweet” liver chestnut gelding by Johnson, who produced a neat and mistake-free test. His marks were consistently around 7.5, with the canter pirouettes the highlights and commanding eights from all five judges, as well as a couple of 8.5s for his passages at the end of the test.

“It’s a difficult arena to ride in,” Dinja added. “There’s a lot of echo, it’s big, the atmosphere is very different to outside, where it’s really hot, but he was really always trying his heart out. He was a bit afraid, but he pulled out such a nice test. He’s a very honest horse, always wants to work, wants to go. He really wants to please me. It’s like at the end of the test he’s asking, ‘Was it OK? Was it good enough?’”

“He has such a big heart – his name means Heart Sugar! He’s really growing in every competition to be a very stable grand prix horse and understands the game now.”

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British and European reiners have come out in force against the “horrifying” decision to allow horses to compete on a sedative in the US.

H&H reported on the recently approved changes made by the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) to its animal welfare and medications policy to allow romifidine to be given to horses 30 minutes before a competition (news, 22 September).

The move was described as “as outrageous as it is wrong” by World Horse Welfare, and reiners outside the US have also spoken in the strongest terms against the change.

British Reining chair Francesca Sternberg told H&H the European NRHA subsidiary has its own rules “and specifically our own medication policy”, and that competitions held in European countries fall under the auspices of each national federation and the European drugs policy.

“The policy is very, very tight,” she said. “They’re basically FEI rules.

“The European association held an extraordinary meeting, and said we want to make it absolutely clear that all Europe will pull together and follow our own policy, which is zero tolerance and high penalties [for doping offences], and that’s what we’ve been doing.”

Mrs Sternberg added that sanctions for doping offences include bans, loss of titles and prize money as well as “naming and shaming”, as in other disciplines, but contrary to past practice in the NRHA.

She said British Reining is among the bodies that have contacted the NRHA in protest at the romifidine decision.

“We are only a small affiliate, but we have already lost one NRHA show as a direct result of this policy publication, and our members are boycotting entering the NRHA classes at next week’s National NRHA Championship show,” the letter reads.

“As British Reining, we are regulated by British Equestrian and have always been fully committed to the wellbeing of the mind, body and spirit of the horse. We believe and support clean sport in every aspect and historically have tested all our main events to maintain the integrity of this. We are greatly surprised and saddened that NRHA would even consider adding this to their welfare and medication policy. Our governing body, British Equestrian, has requested a meeting with our chairman as soon as possible, which will probably be to discuss our disassociation. This will have dire implications for us.

“We hope that common sense, and love for the horse and discipline will prevail, resulting in this decision being reversed as soon as possible.”

Mrs Sternberg added that “as horse people, we are indebted to our animals”.

“It’s an integral part of our ethics that their spirit, health and welfare is at the highest possible level, or we shouldn’t ride them,” she said.

“The change doesn’t come in till next year, so I’m very much hoping they’ll rescind it. I don’t know why they’ve taken that route, but hope very much they’ll reverse it, sooner rather than later, so it never takes effect.

“We’re squeaky clean in Europe, but we’re being tarred by the same brush, and it’s just horrendous. Other countries have written to the NRHA, too, as this is discrediting our discipline. We’re all upset about it.”

An NRHA spokesman told H&H the British Reining letter had been forwarded to the board of directors.

“Any communication received in our office is being responded to and forwarded on to the leadership for their consideration,” she added.

“We have a regular meeting scheduled later in the year for the fourth quarter. There are several conversations and topics being discussed as we lead into that meeting, but the agenda has yet to be set.”

Under the rule change the drug, which is intended to be a “sedative to facilitate handling, examination and treatment, and as a premedication agent prior to general anaesthesia”, may be given at 0.5cc, and must be submitted on the mediations report form.

The NRHA previously told H&H the aim was in the long term to move to a position that does not allow the drug, and that its policy now features sanctions including disqualification and fines up to $30,000, whereas previously “almost all violations resulted in a warning letter”.

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The decision to allow reining horses to compete on a sedative is “as outrageous as it is wrong”.

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) in the US has approved changes to its welfare and medications policy to allow romifidine to be given to horses 30 minutes before competing. The drug is intended to be a “sedative to facilitate handling, examination and treatment, and as a premedication agent prior to general anaesthesia”.

The NRHA told H&H that “respect the horse, respect the sport” has been identified as its “leading agenda” since 2017.

But World Horse Welfare CEO Roly Owers told H&H: “The NRHA decision to allow the sedative to be used in competition is as outrageous as it is wrong.

“The recent change of rules increasing the penalties for violating the sport medications policy is a positive development. But to justify achieving this change through allowing sedatives in competition is simply extraordinary.”

Mr Owers said if a horse’s temperament is not suitable for competition without drug use, the horse either needs further training, or “consideration needs to be given as to whether the horse is suited to the discipline”.

“Pressure from members and supporters of a sport to continue to use behaviour-changing medications is deeply concerning and we believe the NRHA should consider how the decision is seen by the wider public and the negative impact this will undoubtedly have on reining’s social licence,” he said.

The FEI removed reining from its disciplines in 2021, but had cut ties with the NRHA, and the American Quarter Horse Association, in 2018. At the time, the FEI said: “To ensure the integrity of the discipline and maintain a level playing field… the agreement with these two bodies has now been terminated.

“A binding commitment to implement FEI rules on anti-doping, stewarding requirements and the age of competing horses are prerequisites for any future cooperation.”

Both associations said they did not feel they had breached their FEI agreements, and horse welfare was their top priority.

On the most recent decision, the NRHA told H&H its executive committee had “many discussions with industry experts” on the use of romifidine in competition.

“The philosophy is not to condone it for the long term, nor suggest that members begin its use, but to move to a policy that does not allow it,” a spokesman said. “The amount allowed is very small [and] can be administered as chosen by the rider and owner, but no sooner than 30 minutes prior to competition to give time to evaluate the horse for any reactions. Both rider and owner must sign the romifidine declaration and the prescribing veterinarian must be listed. This was important, that both parties be aware, be in agreement and acknowledge the use, dosage and timing prior to competition.

“This ensures horses are treated in the way the owner feels appropriate and the rider is aware, as well, if they have any concerns.”

The spokesman said the revisions aimed to “enhance the penalty structure” for using banned substances. It now includes sanctions including disqualification and fines up to $30,000 (£26,000).

Asked what this move could do in terms of social licence, the spokesman said: “The love for the horse is the cornerstone to our sport, so we stand by the wellbeing of the mind, body and spirit of the horse at all times. We expect our members to consider the welfare of their horses paramount and to always treat them with dignity, respect and compassion.

“By having these priorities and expectations, and rules and penalties to support the priorities, we believe reining can be supported and appreciated by the public.”

In an open letter, NRHA president Rick Clark said members had “repeatedly broken rules” knowing there would be no repercussions; horses who tested positive could keep titles and prizes. He said the aim was to eliminate drugs from competition and “sometimes you have to take little steps to get to the big steps”.

“We did not have support to go to no allowance for romifidine at this time. It is as simple as that,” he said. “We were faced with unfortunate but very likely scenarios if we did not get the support. One being no changes would be approved. Again.

“The decision was not easy, but we truly feel it is best for the industry to start holding people accountable for their actions.”

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The FEI has cut ties with two major reining groups over integrity issues — but both insist they have done nothing wrong.

The news that the organisation had ended its agreement with American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), both US organisations, was made public at the FEI general assembly on Monday (19 November).

A statement from the FEI said both are “in breach of the terms of their cooperation with the FEI”— a claim disputed by both reining organisations.

“In order to ensure the integrity of the discipline and maintain a level playing field for all athletes competing in FEI reining, the agreement with these two bodies has now been terminated,” said the statement.

“Both the AQHA and NRHA have been informed that a binding commitment to implement the FEI rules on anti-doping, stewarding requirements and the age of competing horses are prerequisites for any future cooperation.

“The secretary general advised delegates that FEI reining events will continue, and invited national federations to provide feedback to the FEI on how they see the future of the discipline at international level.”

Reining bodies respond: ‘welfare is our top priority’

Reining has been a FEI-recognised discipline since 2002. The 2014 cooperation agreement covers horse welfare, FEI rules, clean sport, stewarding and education, among other areas. It also gives the FEI jurisdiction over reining competitions for horses aged seven and older.

A statement from the AQHA said it “does not feel it has breached the terms of the agreement and welcomes continued dialogue with the FEI”.

“[In accordance with] the cooperation agreement, all events specifically organised for horses seven years of age and older are to be held under the jurisdiction of FEI,” said the statement.

“AQHA does not offer a class that is specifically organised for horses seven years of age and older. At AQHA events, [horses] in the open division compete in junior reining (ages five and under) or in senior reining (ages six and older).

“With respect to the welfare requirements addressed by the cooperation agreement, AQHA’s regulations and practices, in particular those associated with stewards and drug testing, are consistent with and meet such requirements.

“Simply put, our top priority as an association of horsemen is the health and welfare of our sport and of this great animal.

“The association has taken and will continue to take the appropriate measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the horses competing at AQHA-approved events.”

It added that it “actively implements measures” to protect horses and considers itself a leader in welfare among equine breed associations.

It also states that the AQHA stewards are trained and tested to protect horses and riders. The association adds that it started drug testing in 1973 and it works with the FEI on anti-doping and associated penalties.

Article continues below…

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The NRHA added the “door is still open to a possible new agreement in the future”.

It added the decision followed “months of on-going discussions and negotiations”.

“This 2014 cooperation agreement, for the most part, was first put together to cover such reining competitions as the World Equestrian Games and a small number of other horse shows, primarily in Europe, and reining demonstrations at Olympic-related events,” said the NRHA statement.

“NRHA leaders had offered to travel to FEI in January to negotiate a continued relationship. However, FEI chose to decline the opportunity and terminated the agreement.”

It added the FEI wanted the NRHA to host a competition for horses aged seven years or old, under FEI rules, that could be included in its international calendar.

The NRHA stated this would mean all classes for this age group would need to be FEI-approved.

NRHA vice president Mike Hancock added: “After discussions with show management teams, we discovered how complex and expensive this would be for them.

“In the end, we felt it would be more detrimental to the growth of older horse competition to move forward with this concept. However, we are hopeful to discuss other opportunities for future growth and mutual benefit with FEI.”

The statement said other provisions included FEI stewarding requirements, medication regulations, and that any FEI penalties imposed on horses, owners, officials or riders be accepted and enforced by NRHA.

“NRHA has established its own rules and guidelines in these areas to protect the welfare of the horse at all times during NRHA events,” stated the organisation.

“The safety and well-being of reining horses is the utmost priority for NRHA, and it will continue to take appropriate measures to maintain and enforce those rules, including its own set of medications rules and penalties.

“The letter did leave open the possibility of a new agreement with FEI in the future. The termination does not appear to impact FEI National Federations, such as US Equestrian, and their ability to host FEI reining events.

“Even as the future of the FEI World Equestrian Games is being questioned, NRHA believes reining is on strong footing with members in approximately 40 countries.”

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A British rider has been cleared of any intentional wrongdoing after a horse she was competing tested positive for a prohibited anabolic steroid.

Jessica Sternberg, 27, was competing Shiners Chic in a three-star reining competition in Katy, Texas, USA (20-21 April 2017) when the positive test for Stanozolol occurred. Horse and rider were subsequently disqualified from the competition.

Stanozolol is an anabolic steroid that can be used to improve performance by promoting muscular development. It is a banned substance on the FEI Equine Prohibited Substances List, which means it should never be administered to a horse competing under FEI rules.

After being advised of the positive test on 5 July 2017, Jessica told the FEI on 14 July that she had investigated how this substance could have come to be in Shiners Chic’s system. She had found out that the horse had been given Stanozolol before competing on 21 April 2017, but confirmed that she was unaware at the time that the horse had been administered this substance.

Jessica’s mother Rosanna Sternberg owns Shiners Chic and he is stabled at her ranch in Texas. Ranch manager Sean Pulley is responsible for the day-to-day care of the horses on the ranch, including organising veterinary care when required. Mr Pulley took to the horses due to compete at the 20-21 April show to the vets on 7 April for a pre-competition check up. On this date licensed vet, Dr. John McCarroll, gave the substance to the horse by injection, but did not tell anyone that he had done so.

When Jessica arrived at the ranch on 9 April she asked Mr Pulley if Shiners Chic or the other horses she would be riding in competition had received any medication or treatment that required disclosure or was prohibited. He told her that none of the horses had received any such medication, as he was unaware they had.

In his evidence to the tribunal, Dr. McCarroll stated that: “Nobody was trying to seek a competitive advantage or do anything that would harm the welfare of the horse. To the contrary, my goal is always to enhance the welfare of a horse, and I must have believed that Shiners Chic would benefit from Stanozolol, as it had joint soreness as reflected in my records.”

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Based on the evidence provided, the decision of the FEI Tribunal on 30 August 2018 was that Jessica bore ‘no significant fault or negligence’ for the banned substance found in Shiners Chic’s system.

Read the FEI Tribunal findings in full

The FEI Tribunal ruled that Jessica should be suspended from competition for 17 months from the date of the notification (5 July 2017), fined 3,000 CHF (£2,346) and pay legal costs of 1,000 CHF (£782).

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

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Team GBR is sending two individuals to compete in the reining at the 2018 World Equestrian Games (WEG).

Alison Bucknell, who made her senior team debut at last year’s European Championships, will ride her own Jac Barbee Dream.

The Gloucestershire-based rider has a host of top-10 international results with the nine-year-old stallion, who she has been competing on the European circuit for the past two years.

She is joined by seasoned campaigner Francesca Sternberg, for whom this will be a sixth senior championship appearance.

Francesca, from Kent, is selected on her own Chic Filay or Rosanne Sternberg’s Spook N Sparkle.

Francesca picked up a host of top results at the Bodiam CRI3* in May, including a win as well as second and fourth placings aboard horses not listed for WEG.

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British Reining does not receive funding from the British Equestrian Federation. But Tryon International Equestrian Center will pay a trucking allowance for all horses resident in North America and qualified to compete at the Games.

Jac Barbee Dream will fly out to the States, while both horses that Francesca has been selected on are based in the US — Spook N Sparkle, an eight-year-old palomino, has not yet been campaigned internationally by Francesca, but has finished in the top 10 at all bar one of his 11 international starts.

Chic Filay has competed at one international, in Texas in April 2017 with Francesca in the saddle.

“Although we don’t have a full team this year, I am really excited about the riders we are sending to WEG in Tryon,” said reining chef d’equipe Doug Allen.

“Francesca has been to every WEG since 2002 so has a great wealth of experience and Alison competed in Switzerland last year on the British team at the European Reining Championships.

“They are both riding tried, tested and talented horses, so I feel Great Britain will be well represented.”

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As we countdown to the FEI World Equestrian Games, we bring you all you need to know about each of the equestrian sports.

What does it involve?

Reining is fast-paced and adrenalin pumping. It shows off the athletic ability and movements commonly used by ranch-type horses who are used to work cattle.

At WEG, each rider has to ride one of 10 approved patterns in an arena. A pattern in reining is similar to a test in dressage. There are around seven movements that must be shown including 360-degree spins, sliding stops, flying changes, small and slow canter circles plus bigger, faster canter circles. Riders only have one hand on the rein and the contact is loose — their seat does the majority of the work — and each movement must be smooth, controlled and have finesse.

Riders wear true cowboy attire and the crowd is encouraged to cheer them on.

What’s the format?

There is a team contest as well as an individual one. The team competition takes place on 12 September. The first round of the individual competition is being held on 13 September, with the final individual competition on 15 September. Individual medals are awarded on 15 September.

How does the scoring work?

There is a panel of five judges for each stage of the competition but only three of the marks count. The judge who awards the highest mark and the judge who awards the lowest are both discarded — ie only the middle three marks count.

Teams are made up of a maximum four riders or a minimum of three. The total score for each nation’s top three riders over both rounds makes up the final mark. The country with the highest score wins.

How many medals are there and when are they awarded?

Two. Team medals are awarded on 12 September and the individual champion is crowned on 15 September.

Who’s representing Britain?

Details of the British squad will be added here once the information has been made available.

Do they have a chance?

Britain is unlikely to be in contention for a medal. This is a world contest and America is likely to be the favourite with Canada, Italy, Germany and Belgium also fielding strong teams. Only a quarter of the starting field will qualify for the individual contest, though, and if a British rider qualifies for that it will be a great achievement.

When will H&H report it?

H&H’s WEG reports will run in 20 and 27 September issues of the magazine.

We will also carry reports, pictures and video online throughout the competition. Find all our online WEG coverage here >>

For an early look at the WEG venue, turn to p34 of 18 January issue of Horse & Hound magazine. The full WEG preview will be on sale on Thursday 6 September.

The first British team to compete at the World Para Reining Championships have won silver.

Lee Pearson, Ricky Balshaw and Fiona Durston made up the medal-winning team at the competition in Ermelo, Holland, on Thursday (6 July).

Dressage may be the discipline these three riders are best known for, but the trio had proved their reining prowess by qualifying on their first attempt at the Garden of England Spring Show (26-30 May).

“Showing a wonderful, well-behaved horse in a different discipline with a very enthusiastic audience is credit to the temperament and training of these horses,” said multiple Paralympic medallist Lee.

“I think this is a very exciting time for another para equestrian discipline.”

For Ricky, who rode stallion Yelena My Way, this marks a return to equestrian sport after retiring from dressage and stepping down from the British squad a year ago.

“It felt really good to be back in the saddle and with a flag on my chest,” he said.

Fiona added that both she and her horse, Tino, “really enjoyed it”.

Article continues below…

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The gold medal went to an experienced Canadian team, with Belgium and Germany tied for bronze.

All three riders have qualified for the individual finals, which take place today (Saturday, 8 July).

“I am really delighted,” said chef d’equipe Francesca Sternberg.

“These riders have crossed over from the dressage arena to compete in a new sport and in a very short period of time achieved an incredible amount.

“The medal is the icing on the cake and well deserved. They have all been an inspiration in the dressage world and now they have become the same in the reining arena.

“I am very proud of them and looking forward the individual finals.”

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

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Para dressage medallist Ricky Balshaw is coming out of retirement to compete in a World Championship reining qualifier with fellow GBR star Sir Lee Pearson.

Current squad member Lee has won a staggering 11 gold Paralympic dressage medals and this will be his first foray into the world of reining.

Ricky retired from dressage and stepped down from the British squad in May 2016, but will be making a return to the saddle for the first time since on Friday (26 May).

The pair will be competing at the para reining World Championship qualifier at the International Garden of England Spring Show (26-30 May) at Bodiam International Arena in East Sussex.

Ricky told H&H he is looking forward to the weekend.

“I don’t really remember whose idea it was or where it came from — whether it was from the reiners or Lee,” he laughed.

“One minute I’m retired and the next I’m thinking about going to the World Championships!”

The 30-year-old hung up his competition boots almost exactly a year ago saying he was “was getting to the stage where I want different things from life”.

Ricky started competing on the senior British para team at the age of 14.

During his competitive career he won medals at Paralympic, European and World Championship level.

A grade Ib rider, Ricky won freestyle silver at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics with Deacons Georgi.

“There are things I haven’t missed, but obviously there are huge things I have,” he added.

“I miss the people, the horses and the competition side of things.

“Being competitive is something I have missed, so it will be good to do it one more time.”

Article continues below…

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This is the first para reining event to be held in the UK.

“I am so excited to welcome Lee and Ricky into the sport of reining,” said organiser Francesca Sternberg.

“I am sure that with such an iconic pair setting the ball rolling for para reining in the UK many more will want to follow.”

The para reining World Championships will be held in Ermelo, the Netherlands, on 4-9 July 2017.

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

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Britain narrowly missed out on a podium spot at the FEI European Reining Championships in Aachen on Friday (14 August).

Italy reversed the places from the 2013 Championships, by claiming team gold ahead of Germany in silver. The Netherlands secured bronze, with the British reiners just behind in fourth.

Italian team coach, Filippo Masi De Vargas said he was “simply thrilled”.

“This squad is made up of young riders, the future of our discipline, and they were just great, very professional and full of enthusiasm,” he added.

British rider Francesca Sternberg and Ten Reasons finished joint eighth in the team competition with a score of 215.5 — enough to advance automatically to the individual competition on Sunday (16 August).

“Ten Reasons just gave me another reason why my husband Doug chose him,” she said.

Francesca finished best of the Brits in ninth individually, while Doug finished 15th.

Meanwhile dressage champion Anky van Grunsven swapped her top hat for a stetson and was on the bronze-medal winning Dutch team. She partnered her own Whizashinningwalla BB.

Anky had previously competed in the reining competition at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, but this was her first medal in the discipline at an FEI event.

“It’s amazing, so much fun and I’m so excited about it,” said Anky.

“I know I can do dressage but to be on a bronze medal-winning reining team that’s something else. Earning a medal at the FEI European Championships is so good for this sport and the reason that I enjoy this discipline is firstly because I’m not good at it and I like the challenge, and secondly, I love the atmosphere both in and outside the arena.”

Italy’s Giovanni Masi De Vargas and Dance Little Spook won individual gold, while Germany’s Grisha Ludwig and Shine My Gun took silver. Fellow German Elias Ernst and Uss N Dun It claimed bronze.

“I started competing in 2009 in junior competition and this is my ninth FEI medal,” said Giovanni. “This is the first time I’ve competed in a senior championship and it’s been an amazing experience.”

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Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher’s daughter Gina is following in her father’s footsteps as a champion in sport, taking home two gold medals from last week’s FEI European reining championships for juniors and young riders.

The 17-year-old took the individual junior gold was also part of the German gold medal-winning team at the event.

The championships took place in Givrins in Switzerland (2-3 July) at Gina’s mother, Corinna Schumacher’s, ranch.

Forty-six riders from nine countries took part in the event, including reiners from Britain, although the team was not in the medals.

Italy was aiming at fifth consecutive victory in the junior event, but had to settle for silver when the German team claimed victory. Belgium took bronze.

Alongside Gina was Jakob Behringer, Lena-Marie Maas and Shawn Wagner.

“All the riders worked hard to achieve this much coveted medal,” said German team coach, Nico Hoermann.

Gina then went on to take individual gold, while teammate Jakob Behringer took bronze. Italy’s Eric Ranieri Volpe claimed silver.

Gina was competing her 11-year-old paint horse stallion Gunners Enterprise whose stable-name is Digger.

“My horse was great for me once again, and I am thrilled with this second gold medal,” she said. “I cannot thank my team members and coach enough, my trainer Shawna Larcombe and of course my mum and family who are my greatest supporters.”

Her father Michael is currently recovering from a skiing accident in December 2013, which left him in a medically induced coma until June 2014. He is now at home, but reportedly in a wheelchair.

At the time a French journalist claimed Michael’s head camera worsened his injuries in the fall, leading to British Eventing bringing a blanket ban in on the devices.

Italy took control in the young riders competition winning team gold ahead of German and Austria.

“I am thrilled with our athletes even though in the past we have claimed both (junior and young rider taam) gold medals” said Italian coach Filippo Masi de Vargas. “

“The level of competition is getting better every year. I am truly proud and honoured to have such a great group of athletes.”

The country dominated the individual medals too with Alessio Baldi taking gold, with countryman Andrea Pedrotti finishing with silver.

FEI secretary general, Sabrina Zeender said: “These championships were fabulous and dynamic, providing super sport. The quality of the riders was outstanding and the infrastructure at the venue is amazing. The complex here is state-of-the-art and the perfect place to stage a Reining Championship at any level. It is really exciting to see so many young riders and juniors with so much promise. Their talent suggests great things for the future of this sport.”

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If you’ve always been tempted to give reining a try, take a look at Horse & Hound’s Storm Johnson’s tips for first-time success.

Storm’s 14 tips for first-time reining success

1. Relax! For reining you need to be relaxed, particularly through your shoulders, as the horses are very responsive to changes in your body position.

2. Find a registered trainer — David and Sarah Deptford are UKCC level 3 & 2 coaches.

3. Ride at a licensed riding establishment — the same way you would with any riding school. Sovereign Quarter Horses is approved by Cambridgeshire County Council and the AQHA UK.

4. Don’t rush out to buy all the gear — a riding hat, some comfortable jeans and a pair of jodhpur boots are all you need for your first few lessons.

5. Be prepared to ride on a loose rein — many riders transferring from English-style riding struggle to let go of the contact, but you will find everything easier if you prepare to ride from your legs and seat.

6. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden before — David and Sarah meet many first-time riders, some of whom are well into their 60s and 70s!

7. Start on a schoolmaster – I rode Sarah’s mare Chexy (Chex Out This Action), a 13-year-old saint who knew the handbook forwards, backwards and sideways – allowing me to concentrate on my riding.

8. Watch someone experienced ride first — it is much easier to get the hang of it when you’ve seen someone in action. Try attending a demo or a lecture first to get a feel for the style. David and Sarah perform several demos throughout the year – including this year’s British Dressage championships.

9. Ask questions — don’t be afraid to ask if something feels strange or counter-intuitive. If you are struggling with something during your lesson, consider asking your trainer to hop on and show you.

10. Take a support team — reining is a real adrenalin rush and having someone there to cheer you on will fill you with confidence.

11. Don’t over-prepare — the hardest thing for me was learning not to prepare for the movements a few strides away. Reining horses will pick up on any change in posture and you may find yourself starting the movement early.

12. Don’t click! Reining horses are very responsive to the voice, and where a click on your own horses may just give a little more energy, things are different on a Quarter — as David told me, “if you click, she’ll gallop!”

13. Learn how to dismount — don’t make the same mistake I did, or you may find yourself hung from the saddle horn by your sports bra…

14. “Forget everything you’ve ever learned” — wise words from Steph Hurst at Sovereign Quarter Horses.

Keen to give reining a try?

Lessons cost £48 for an hour. Visit www.sovereignquarterhorses.com

Don’t miss the full article about trying reining for the first time in the 1 January issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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Your first time reining is a little like your first time being drunk; the world is spinning, you’re going too fast, and then everything comes screeching to a halt and you’re left dizzy and rather confused.

Thankfully, rather than a crippling hangover and a need for as much bacon as you can find, all you’re left with the next day is an immediate desire to have another go.

I had a grin plastered across my face from the minute I got on board at Sovereign Quarter Horses. I had a lesson with David Deptford, while his wife Sarah was kind enough to lend me her own horse Chexy (Chex Out This Action), a 13-year-old mare imported from the USA five years ago.

We started off slowly, with David just letting me get a feel for this new style. Maybe it’s because I do a lot of one-handed hacking around the Welsh hills on my own mare, but I felt comfortable immediately — although David tells me it’s common for riders to be hesitant riding on a loose rein at first. I can see why; once we started cantering, it took me a few goes to learn how to stop and steer without touching the reins.

There is such a huge engine on a quarter horse that the speed and power did take me by surprise, but Chexy was so responsive to my slightest aid (even the unintentional ones).

Continued below…

David knew I was keen to have a go at the “tricks” — the spins and the sliding stops. The first spin had me dizzy with excitement, and motion sickness, even though David told me it was only “half speed”. Watch the video to decide for yourself, and don’t miss the snigger from photographer Peter Nixon.

After a few goes, I was whizzing round one-handed, feeling like I could stay there all day, but we were already moving on to the best part of all: the sliding stop.

To say my first try wasn’t very successful would be an understatement — it took about half the length of the arena for us to stop from a slow canter.

Perhaps there’s more to this than I thought! David hopped on to show me how it’s done and I realised just how positive I needed to be.

Remounting, and being told to “get a bit cowgirl”, I started to really go for it, and the feeling was brilliant. Sarah and her friends were cheering me on from the gate, which was a massive help – there may not be any jumps, but galloping headlong towards a solid wall really gets your adrenaline going and the whooping and whistling certainly spurs you on.

All too soon we were coming to the end of my session, with that grin still locked on my face. I’m already planning my next visit, and starting a piggy bank to get my own quarter horse – watch this space…

Don’t miss the full article about trying reining for the first time in the 1 January issue of Horse & Hound magazine

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A trio of British girls took bronze at the FEI European Reining Championships in Manerbio, Italy at the weekend (8-15 September).

Britain fielded the youngest team in the junior competition, comprising Tabitha Sternberg Allen (15), Isobel Le Pla (15) and Fiona Howard (14).

The girls train with Tabitha’s father Doug Allen at Sterling Quarter Horses, Bodiam, East Sussex, and he was their chef d’equipe for the event.

“I am really delighted with the girls, they rode very well, used their heads and didn’t crack under the pressure. It bodes incredibly well for the future,” Doug said.

Tabitha was the highest scoring rider of the team in both rounds on the 2nd oldest horse at the competition Yelena My Way [Milo].

“I am so excited for the team and incredibly grateful and proud of my horse Milo,” Tabitha said.

“He might be an oldie, but he’s a goldie!”

The European Championships is the highest medal opportunity for junior and young riders as there is no World Equestrian Games or Olympics for their age group.

All 3 riders advanced to the individual finals where Tabitha placed 12^th, Isobel 13^th and Fiona 15^th.

The girls’ next event will be the British Reining Championships in 2 weeks time at Bodiam, East Sussex. After that they are all hoping to be selected for next year’s American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup Team competition in Texas, USA.

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Tabitha Sternberg-Allen and Louise McKnight shared the title of rookies champions at the British Reining Championships earlier this month.

Both riders returned home from Oakridge Quarter Horse Centre in Newark with two championship titles.

Tabitha (pictured) and Louise each scored an impressive 69.3, in the largest class of the day, to be crowned joint rookie champions.

Tabitha, 14, and stallion Smart a Little also took the youth championship with a score of 69.2. Louise, who rode Cody Chic Olena, justified her trip down from Scotland by adding the green as grass championship title to her tally.

It was a successful day for Hollywood Mojo, who won two championships under different riders — owner Lester Wilson scored 69.2 to win the limited non-pro championship and trainer Alan Payne clocked a notable 71 to take the limited open championship.

Doug Allen and Francesca Sternberg also triumphed taking home the open and non-pro champion titles respectively. Doug posted the highest championship score of the day, on Inwhizable Juan, with 71.5.

Results

Green as Grass Championship 1. Cody Chic Olena Whiz (Louise McKnight) 69. 2. GVR Nu Glo (Frederika Forbes) 68.5. 3. Pick a Smart Player (Fiona Stringer) 67.5. Rookie Championship 1. Smart a Little (Tabitha Sternberg-Allen) & Cody Chic Olena (Louise McKnight) 69. 3. West Coast Jewel (Jerry Naish) & Smarts Little Golden Spook (John Ash) 68.5 Youth Championship 1. Smart a Little (Tabitha Stern berg-Allen) 69. 2. Whip that Rooster (Nina Rudd) 68.5. 3. Snapper Little (Fiona Howard) 63.5. Limited Non Pro Championship 1. Hollywood Mojo (Lester Wilson) 69. 2. BR Dual Rey (John McKnight) 68.5. 3. SES Chic Olena (Henrietta Campbell) 67.5. Limited Open Championship 1. Hollywood Mojo (Alan Robert Payne) 71. 2. Rockn the River (Erwin Van Looy) 70. 3. Jac Wonders Who (Tammy Greaves) 69. Int Non Pro Championship 1. AJ Dunnit Smart (Dawn Heaton) 70. 2. BR Dual Rey (John McKnight) 68. 3. SES Chic Olena (Henrietta Campbell) 62.5. Int Open Championship 1. Smart Rebel Girl (Michael Langford) 71.5. 2. Jac’s Little Sunrise (Doug Allen) 71. 3. Inwhizable Juan (Doug Allen) 70.5. Non Pro Championship 1. Smart Like Valentino(Francesca Sternberg) 69. Open Championship 1. Inwhizable Juan (Doug Allen) 71.5. 2. Custom Remedy (Lee Rutter) 71. 3. Jac’s Little Sunrise (Doug Allen) & Old Vaquero (Lee Rutter) 70.5.

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Reining is the fastest-growing equestrian sport across Europe.

Even top dressage rider Anky van Grunsven is a convert and interest increased substantially in Britain in 2011.

In the past three years, UK competitors have quadrupled to more than 200 and riders registered with the ruling body for international horse sport, the FEI, have increased by 130.

The number of FEI competitions has also ballooned, from just three in 2001 to 59 in 2010.

Peter Lane, chairman of British Reining, told H&H: “Interest is enormous. I regularly get calls from people wanting to try the sport, but we have been held back in the past by not having a large number of reining horses in the UK.

“However, in the past year or so, we have been able to find yards where people can go to try a

reining lesson.”

One yard offering reining lessons is David and Sarah Deptford’s Sovereign Quarter Horses in March, Cambs.

Sarah said: “People come to us to try Western riding and find reining through that. It is fast paced and exciting.”

She said they teach 20 lessons on average a week, a quarter of which are in reining.

The best-equipped centre in the country is GB team riders Francesca Sternberg and Doug Allen’s Sterling Quarter Horses in East Sussex, which has an international-standard arena.

“Four of the six riders on the GB team at the last World Equestrian Games [WEG] live in the south of England, because that’s where the facilities are,” said Anne Clarke of the British Equestrian

Federation (BEF).

“It is interesting that it took Anky [van Grunsven] nearly four years to reach the standard to compete at WEG, when we know what a fabulously talented rider she is,” added Ms Sternberg.

Anky told H&H: “After so many achievements, I was looking for new challenges. I found them

in reining.”

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (5 January 2012)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Reining could have a set of new rules from next January, designed to improve horses’ welfare.

The changes come partly in response to a video clip from the world reining final in Sweden on the internet site Epona TV, which appeared to show US rider Craig Schmersal jerking the reins, with his horse very overbent, in front of an apparently unconcerned steward.

Mr Schmersal went on to win a silver medal (news, 23 June).

The new rules will cover training and warm-up methods at international competitions for sliding stops, spins and backing, as well as the bits and spurs allowed and stewarding at events.

Francesca Sternberg of British Reining welcomed the move. “I’m impressed by the stewarding at FEI events and have seen very few incidents. But any steps to improve and the fact the FEI is not frightened to look at the incident is progressive,” she said.

The chief steward at the Swedish finals issued verbal warnings to a number of riders, but no yellow cards were issued, according to the FEI.

But Epona TV, which would not hand over the footage to the FEI, has reported that riders said they did not receive warnings.

The rules will be announced once they have been voted on at the FEI general assembly in November and if agreed they will be implemented on 1 January 2012.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (18 August, 2011)

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An internet video clip of a rider repeatedly jabbing his horse’s reins before the FEI***** World Reining Final (18-22 May) has led to criticism of the way the governing body enforces its rules.

In the clip (below), US rider Craig Schmersal, who went on to win a silver medal, is seen continually jerking the reins with his horse in a rollkur outline, while a steward in the background appears to look on unconcerned.

The chief steward at the finals, held in Sweden, assured the FEI that “all practice sessions were within the rules”. But he admits that verbal warnings were issued to competitors.

FEI spokesman Ian Williams, director of non-Olympic sports at the FEI, told H&H that the federation “condemns all training methods that are contrary to horse welfare”.

He added: “Hyperflexion was defined as unacceptable by the FEI in 2010 and this applies across all disciplines.”

Prior to the incident, the FEI had set up three working groups to conduct a full review of reining, including stewards’ guidelines and permitted training practices. But the governing body is now looking into this case and has made two formal requests to the broadcasters for a copy of the unedited tape.

But Epona.tv has refused to supply footage.

“We are trying to establish the facts, but while Epona TV profess to be upholders of horse welfare, they will not assist the FEI so that we can properly undertake a full inquiry and act accordingly. We now have to proceed without a key piece of evidence,” said FEI secretary general Ingmar de Vos.

Epona’s Julie Taylor said: “The fact the FEI is asking for our raw footage underlines its inability to enforce rules. A retrospective inquiry appears to be more of a clueless attempt at disaster management.”

The new reining regulations will be voted on at the FEI’s general assembly in November and, if passed, will come into force in January 2012.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (23 June, 2011)

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America didn’t have it all their own way in the individual final of the World Equestrian Games reining championships. Tom McCutcheon took gold riding Gunners Special Night, who pulled off spectacular sliding stops for “excellent” marks from the judges to finish on 228. And fellow American Craig Schmersal grabbed silver with 223.

But Shaun Flarida, who was the best of the squad when they won team gold two days ago, received a five point penalty when his stirrup broke in a transition from a fast to slow canter and Shaun had to grab the pommel of the saddle so as not to be unseated.

The incident went under video review, but the judges’ decision was upheld and they scored 207.5 for last place.

Instead, it was Canada’s Duane Latimer riding Dun Playing Tag who scooped the bronze medal.

Britain held their own, with two riders into the final for the top 20 and Doug Allen finishing 10th.

Doug, first to go for Britain in the individual final, stormed into the lead with his 218 score riding Roseanne Sternberg’s Don Julio Whizz.

“I’m so happy with the horse, he was absolutely fantastic, that was a dream ride,” said Doug.

Highlights included their slides and turnbacks, but there was hardly a movement for which they did not deserve credit (extra marks) from the judges.

Teammate Lee Rutter was next in with Setting Off Sparks and did not disappoint, earning a respectable 215 for 15th place.

Lee said: “Every time this mare goes in there she works hard, she wants to be good. She’s tired today but still gave it her all.”

For Britain, a small reining nation, a team medal was always going to be tough, but to get two riders into the final among the 20 best in the world is a huge achievement.

For more comment and analysis and pictures don’t miss H&H 7 October issue.

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Britain has two riders, Lee Rutter and Doug Allen, through to the individual final of the reining competition at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.

The top 15 riders from the team competition on the weekend qualified for the final automatically, with the next 20 going through to the second chance qualifying competition today. Just the top five from this join the other competitors in Thursday afternoon’s final.

Britain’s Lee Rutter went in the final session this morning and scored 217.5 to take the lead. He held this through the final three riders, qualifying in the top position with the 12-year-old mare Setting Off Sparks.

“I had a good draw because I could see all the other scores, but I knew I had some work to do,” he said afterwards. “She felt great and never once thought about doing anything other than what I asked which is great for a reining horse. She’s an awesome mare.”

Fellow Brit Doug Allen had the second best score today, 216.5.

“I had a couple of penalties in the team competition — he wasn’t quite as good on the left circles and didn’t spin so good — and I cleaned those up, eliminating the weaknesses, and kept the manoeuvres which were strong good. Everything went according to plan,” he said of his ride on the eight-year-old stallion Don Julio Whiz.

“He was tired the other time so I didn’t ride him so hard before this and it’s longer from when I last rode him. He felt fresher, was crisper turning and was better in the left-hand circle.”

Both Doug and Lee’s horses belong to Rosanne Sternberg, sister of Doug’s wife and fellow British team member Francesca Sternberg, and they have only been riding them for three or four weeks.

Mistake puts third Brit out of running

Francesca was also through to today’s qualifier, but she suffered a disappointment when six-year-old mare Slidin Like A Yankee backed up at the start of her first spin, which is heavily penalised.

“I think she was just trying too hard,” she said. “She was going backwards and if you do more than four steps back you are eliminated, so I had to kick her on and that messed up the manoeuvre. She’s a very good spinning horse so we should have plussed that manoeuvre, instead of minused it.

“I probably dropped six points on that first spin, which shows how little room for error there is. I knew I was toast but just had to keep going. I’m sad because I was a finalist at Aachen [2006 WEG] so I would have liked to have been a finalist here.”

However, she paid tribute to her mare, saying: “She’s not a world class athlete like some others here, but her heart is bigger than any horse here. As far as trying is concerned, she’s a medallist in my opinion.”

Today’s other qualifiers were Sweden’s Fredrick Thomsson (Gallos Stylish Star), the Netherland’s Hubertus Heule (Crome Shiner) and Australia’s Warren Backhouse (Whizs Bronze Star).

The individual final starts at 1pm (6pm British time) on Thursday afternoon.

Log back onto www.horseandhound.co.uk to read about the individual final on Thursday and full report on the individual reining in H&H out 7 October. Team reining in the issue out 30 September.

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Things are seriously hotting up in the dressage at WEG following the elimination of top Dutch rider Adelinde Cornelissen. British judge Stephen Clarke had to send the pair out after blood was seen in the horse’s mouth. He probably bit his tongue, or lip, but the rules are there to protect the horses and the sport’s image, so out she went.

Our British dressage riders are doing such an amazing job (am I sounding yank enough yet?) and it’s more relaxing and enjoyable to watch them than it was four years ago. I spent so much time when I started as dressage editor at H&H asking then selector David Trott why we weren’t doing better as we battled for sixth. Now we’re expected to get medals and (the royal) we actually deliver.

In other news, my new found obsession with all things America, Western and reining continues… Last night I trotted down to the John Deere media event (they sponsor and provide all the ground maintenance equipment for the games), not being one to miss out on a networking opportunity/free beer. They were after a volunteer to ride one of the national association’s American quarter horses in a demo. With my colleague Pippa Roome heckling at me not to fall off as she didn’t fancy covering the rest of the games solo, down I merrily went.

I got off to an unpromising start… Us dressage riders (I use this title Very loosely) use mounting blocks, and getting on in rather snug jeans from the ground was an embarrassing moment waiting to happen. Yes, predictably, the small rip in an unnoticeable area become a somewhat larger one as I ungainly got my leg over. No matter, nobody is going to notice that till I get off, I thought, and up here I have plenty more opportunity to make a muppet of myself.

Casey, the lovely instructor cowboy, asked me which hand I usually held my reins in. “Well, both,” I said. “Which, do you prefer,” he asked. Then it dawned on me nobody had told him I’d never ridden in western tack before… No matter, this incredible horse covered for me completely and kept up the bluff throughout. We span (look up reining spins on youtube, very very cool), backed-up and even managed sliding stops! Like this….

Breezer was so damn responsive. Take your reins left and he whipped round, sit and say whoa and you get the slide, put your heels down and you hit reverse, at speed! He might as well have had a gear stick.

I want one. I don’t think my lovely Irish thoroughbred is going to fancy this job…my trainer Gary Holt has been known to risk life and limb standing in the middle of the arena with us cantering straight at him just to encourage Skips to halt. Sometimes we manage walk and don’t hit him too hard…

But I can’t possibly afford me a quarter horse. Can I just stay here and shack up with a cowboy, please?

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Team USA took the first gold medals of the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, heading the reining competition by a massive 15.5 points from Belgium. America have been winning this title ever since the sport was introduced to the World Games 12 years ago.

Team member Tom McCutcheon (Gunners Special Nite) said: “I don’t think we’ll ever have a team as special as this again. We have the most amazing bunch of horses.”

In the press conference, one slightly size-ist German journalist questioned the larger physique of some members of the American team in contrast to other athletes. “What can I say,” joked the team chef d’equipe, “we brought a heavyweight team for a heavyweight fight.”

Shaun Flarida was best of the team, having a “sweet” ride on RC Fancy Step to finish on 227 — three points ahead of Italy’s Stefano Massignan.

Belgium was on the podium for the first time at a World Games. Team rider Cira Baeck said: “We’re only a small country and we were hoping for fifth place at best and dreaming of bronze. To get silver, well, we can’t believe it. Maybe it will sink in in the morning, when we wake up with our medals — and a headache!”

Italy, third for the third consecutive time at WEG, look despondent and admitted: “We are tired of coming third.” They have individual hopes though in Stefano at least.

The British team did not finish as well as was hoped — in ninth position. Doug Allen and Francesca Sternberg were both pleased with their horse’s performances today but both had small mistakes. After our last rider performed we were in fifth position, but slipped to ninth out of 14 teams as Canada, Germany, Brazil and the Netherlands steadily overtook.

Having finished outside the top 15, our riders do not automatically qualify for the individual final. But they have another chance in the consolation competition on Tuesday, where they need to finish in the top five.

For full report and pictures of the team reining competition don’t miss Horse & Hound out 30 September

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Lee Rutter, 28, lifted the British reining team’s hopes this afternoon in Kentucky with a strong performance riding the experienced 12-year-old dark bay mare Setting Off Sparks.

Lee scored 216.5 with a smart turn of speed, good sliding stops and correct flying changes.

“She’s got a big heart and is a fantastic horse,” said Lee, who is hoping he has done enough to see himself through to the individual competition but is “all about the team”.

This is only the second time he has ridden the mare in competition.

“We’ve really clicked in the two weeks I’ve ridden her,” said Lee.

Our first British team rider to go tomorrow is Francesca Sternberg. Her husband Doug Allen goes last and is “feeling confident” about his and the teams’ chances.

“Things are going to hot up tomorrow,” said Doug. “All the nations are going to bring out their best riders, and my horse is on great form.”

Italian Stefano Massignan leads the team competition over night, having scored 224 on his American Quarter Horse Yellow Jersey.

“He’s a very easy horse to ride,” admitted Stefano. “Today’s pattern really suits him as well; he has a lot of power which he can put to good use in the fast circles, but he is then still fresh enough for the rest of the movements.”

America are predictably in the lead after the first day and are expect to take tomorrow’s team title. Craig Schmersal filed the second best score so far, 223.5, and joked: “Without wanting to put pressure on my teammates, I expect us to have better scores to come.”

Team Germany are down to three riders having lost their number one, Nico, this morning; his horse lost balance and fell on his near hind following his first spin and Nico retired. Their second rider to go, Grischa Ludwig, was joint third with America’s Tim Mcquay at the end of today and admitted that fortunately he: “shows the best when he’s under the most pressure.”

For full report and pictures don’t miss next week’s Horse & Hound, out 30 September

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BRITAIN got off to an imperfect start in the John Deere Reining World Championships this morning. At just 22 years of age, Tammy Greaves led the British charge. Riding her parents John and Patricia’s stunning eight-year-old palomino Jac Wonders Who, Tammy started with promise. Her spins started well and the pair showed impressive speed in their canter circles. But then the stallion kicked back in his first flying change, incurring a five point penalty. Although challenged, the judges stuck to their decision and Tammy scored 188.5.

This afternoon, the second of the British riders, Lee Rutter, takes his turn on Setting Off Sparks.

American Tom Mcquay, a favourite for an individual title, is currently top of the team leaderboard with 220.5 riding Hollywoodstinsletown.

Anky van Grunsven of the Netherlands, a recent convert to reining having developed an interest in the sport following the 2008 Beijing Olympics, scored a personal best riding Whizashiningwalla BB — try saying that three times. Only her spins were a little slow, the rest of the pattern showed ability beyond her experience in the discipline. As you’d expect from a dressage multiple gold medallist, her flying changes were spot on. And her contact was a little shorter than the majority.

Three out of the first 13 in competition this morning scored zero. Spare a thought for German Nico Hormann, a well respected player in this game. He started spectacularly on eight-year-old Mister Dual Spring, spinning at great speed, but then the horse lost his balance and fell on his hindquarters, not unseating his rider but meaning elimination from the competition. It’s a long way to come to spin once.

Click below to listen to Anky talk about her performance

Log onto www.horseandhound.co.uk for regular reports from WEG. Full report of the reining team competition in H&H next week (30 September issue).

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Dutch dressage supremo Anky van Grunsven will go to the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky later this month as part of the Dutch reining team.

Anky, who was named as a reserve on the reining team last month, will now take part in the competition after teammate Jurgen Pouls had to withdraw due to an injury to his horse.

Dutch chef d’equipe Caspar de Jonge asked Anky to replace Jurgen yesterday (Tuesday 31 August).

She will compete on her quarterhorse Whizashiningwalla BB.

“I’m very excited,” said Anky. “Although it’s a shame that Jurgen is not able to go. As a reserve you always have to be on standby, so I’ve already made a lot of preparations including extra vaccinations for Whiz.

“I really hope that I can help the team by getting a good score and will put 100% into it.”

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Following team silver and individual gold at the last World Equestrian Games in Aachen, the Canadian Reining Committee (CRC) has named the riders who will be aiming for the podium once again in Kentucky.

The riders, who were chosen after a head-to-head selection trial, are:

• Lisa Coulter
• Duane Latimer
• Shawna Sapergia
• Vernon Sapergia

Coulter will be riding Western Whiz, a seven-year-old Quarter Horse gelding owned by Robert Thompson. Coulter represented Canada at the 2009 Reining Kentucky Cup CRI 4* held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, where she won individual and team silver.

Latimer, the current FEI Reining World Champion, will be looking to defend his title riding Dun Playin Tag, Lance Griffin’s Canadian-bred six-year-old Quarter Horse gelding. Latimer also posted the score that secured Canada the team silver medal the 2006 World Championships in Aachen.

Shawna Sapergia, team and individual silver medalist from the 2002 Jerez WEG, will be riding This Chics On Top, a Canadian-bred seven-year-old Quarter Horse mare owned by Outrider Ranch Ltd.

Shawna’s father, Vernon Sapergia, will be making his Canada reining team debut at the World Equestrian Games riding Its Wimpys Turn, a six-year-old Canadian-bred Quarter horse mare also owned by Outrider Ranch Ltd.

“Without a doubt, we have four outstanding athletes and horses representing Canada reining at the 2010 World Equestrian Games. We should feel confident that we will have a place on the podium,” said Bob Thompson, chair of the CRC.

“We are very lucky to have such a strong, talented and experienced team, and we are looking forward to an exciting and tough competition,” added chef d’équipe, Wendy Dyer.

• Read the latest World Equestrian Games news

Three-times Olympic gold medal-winning Dutch dressage rider Anky van Grunsven has been named as reserve in the Dutch reining team for the World Equestrian Games (WEG) this September.

And British Olympic dressage rider Emma Hindle has recently taken up reining, too.

Anky was named as team reserve after finishing reserve champion at her first FEI event, the CRI* Swedish National Championships in Bökeberg in April.

“I’m very happy to be reserve for the reining team, but I’m not expecting to go to WEG,” Anky told H&H.

“Reining’s quite similar to dressage, especially the speed control. Of course the exercises are different, mainly because you’re not allowed to have any contact with the reins. But I really enjoy it and it helps make me a better rider.”

But Emma Hindle has no plans to compete — yet.

“We had Andrea Gembe’s European champion Big Time Rooster collecting at Brookhouse Stud and she asked me if I wanted to have a go. I really enjoyed it. But it’s something fun for now — I wouldn’t compete until I’m at a standard where I could do well,” she said.

Anky has been reining for about 10 years, but, when she was given a western saddle after the 2008 Olympics, she became more competitive.

The 42-year-old originally rode a horse called Hilda, but has since been riding Whizashiningwalla BB, who, she says, is a “better match” for her.

In June, Anky decided to opt out of the WEG dressage selection process after her Olympic horse Salinero injured his withers and she did not want to rush his recovery. She is now riding the horse once more.

“I don’t really have a plan for Salinero yet as he is the only one who can say when he is ready to compete, but I would like to do more shows with him soon,” said Anky.

And, after mixed results with her other top horse Painted Black, she decided he would not be a top-five contender so would not aim him at WEG either.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (12 August, ’10)

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Formula One (F1) driver Michael Schumacher and BBC motorsport presenter Lee McKenzie are swapping racing cars for a different type of horse power to take part in a reining competition.

The “Celebrity Challenge”, involving six riders, takes place on Saturday (3 July) at the CS International European Championships held at the Schumachers’ CS Ranch, in Switzerland.

Lee has ridden for most of her life and used to present for racing channel Attheraces and Winning Post on Sky Sports.

She has trained with world reining medallist Francesca Sternberg and describes the sport as “thoroughly exhilarating”.

“Due to the travel involved in F1, I have only had time for three one-hour reining lessons. But I will be riding a fabulous little palomino called Lexus,” said Lee.

The class will be shown on the BBC 1 F1 show on either the weekend of 10/11 July or 24/25 July.

Lee expects a combined audience of about 13million to tune in to see Michael and the other celebrities compete.

Peter Lane, chairman of British Reining, said: “This is a great thing for reining and will hopefully enable more people to see the sport who haven’t before.”

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (1 July, ’10)

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Anky van Grunsven, the Dutch Olympic dressage champion, speaks to Horse & Hound about her life, her horses and her new reining career

When did you first… choose dressage?

At the age of 12, but that was only because my horse Prisco couldn’t jump. I decided I wanted to ride professionally after I finished school.

What is first… on your list of ambitions?

I don’t have ambitions any more — I want to have fun.

When did you first… become interested in reining?

I have been doing reining for about 10 years, but it’s only since the last Olympics that I’ve really had time for it. I have one reining horse, Whizashiningwalla BB, and I’ve learned a lot from him.

What is the first… word you would use to describe yourself?

Busy, always busy. With riding, teaching, management, administration, children…

When did you last… score a 10?

I often get a 10 with Salinero — and used to with Bonfire, too — for piaffe, passage and the transitions in between.

When did you last… lose your temper?

While I was having an argument with Sjef [Janssen, Anky’s husband and Dutch dressage team trainer]. It does happen.

What was the last… thing you bought?

Clothes for the children — they were far too expensive.

When did you last… feel like giving up horses?

Honestly? I never have.

This extract is from an interview first published in Horse & Hound (13 May, ’10)

Britain’s reining team won their first medal in international competition last weekend, at the International Equestrian Federation’s European Reining Championships in Kreuth, Germany.

Doug Allen (Just Gotta Shine), Lee Rutter (Santa Cruz Whiz) and Tammy Greaves (Jac Wonders Who) took bronze in the championships, which ran from 8-11 October.

New AQHA UK champion Lee posted the squad’s highest score of 216.5 on his UK team debut.

Germany won gold for the second time and Belgium took silver.

Twenty eight competitors took part in the competition, with seven teams plus individual riders from France and Poland.

Western riders are being offered access to improved facilities and training via the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), putting them on an equal footing with disciplines such as dressage and show jumping.

The BEF has invited organisations including the Western Equestrian Society (WES) and American Quarter Horse Association UK (AQHA UK), to take up affiliate membership via British Reining.

“Our membership structure allows just one member body from a particular equestrian interest,” said a BEF spokesperson, “but we would like to encourage groups with similar interests to be represented by coming together — as the showing organisations are doing — or being affiliated via an existing member.”

Members of the western bodies that affiliate through British Reining (BR) would be able to take advantage of training grants for subsidised clinics, take part in the UK Coaching Certificate (UKCC) or be trained by UKCC level III western coaches and use BEF approved training facilities.

BR chief executive David Brimson explained: “We’re aiming to get more representation for western riding. Each society would retain its autonomy and could put in requests for funding to meet its own needs.”

There are over 2,000 people actively involved in western riding in Britain, but only 130 are BR members. The WES has around 850 members and the AQHA UK 900.

The concept of a single voice for western riding has been welcomed in principle, though the societies have varied interests — AQHA UK majors on the promotion of the breed, while the WES organises instructional and competitive events for all breeds. BR focuses mainly on its western-style “dressage” discipline, but is spearheading a UKCC programme for general western riding skills at its basic levels.

WES chairman David Brindley said: “We agree that all organisations representing western riding should work together and we will put this to the membership at our AGM in April.”

But AQHA UK chairman David Teideman commented: “We are keen to be represented within the BEF, but we want all aspects of western equestrianism to be recognised.”

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An Austrian competitor has broken the American stranglehold on the World Reining Masters in Oklahoma City, 29 November.

Rudi Kronsteiner rode Quarter Horse stallion Smart Spook to bag gold medals in both the open and restricted divisions — the first time a non-American has won the open since the championship started four years ago.

Kronsteiner, who showed his potential when landing the restricted last year, is Europe’s top National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) rider. He put his win into perspective.

“I’m really proud for my country,” said Kronsteiner, who was showing the six-year-old Smart Spook for the first time. “We are really small — maybe seven million people, and we have only about 300 NRHA members. For my country and for me, this means a lot.”

America has 15,000 NRHA members.

But Kronsteiner had to fight for his place in the Hall of Fame. After tying with Americans Casey Hinton and Gabe Hutchins in round one, a “runoff” decided the placings.

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Reining cemented its place on the world stage this afternoon when 8,000 spectators gave Canadian Duane Latimer a standing ovation as he took individual gold. The Canadian won on a score of 228 after an exciting ride-off against America’s Time McQuay, an unusual occurrence at top-level reining competitions.

The two were equal on scores of 230 after the individual final, meaning each had to ride again. Afterwards, Duane said it had been his “lucky day”.

Duane Latimer (CAN) aboard Hang Ten Surprize. Pictures by Kit Houghton

“My horse is very consistent — but it’s his first major competition,” he said. “The crowd didn’t phase him.”

Tim McQuay, part of America’s gold-medal winning team on Friday, took home silver on a score of 206, and his compatriot Aaron Ralston took bronze.

“My horse is a really good family horse, he keeps coming back and winning competitions,” said Aaron of the 12-year-old Smart Paul Olena.

Britain’s Francesca Sternberg scored 217.5, and although finishing well down the leader board, said she was “delighted” to have been in the final.

Seven weeks ago the Brit had a fall in France which resulted in bruised ribs and concussion, and said it was a miracle she was in WEG.

“But I went in there and thoroughly enjoyed myself,” she said.

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Leading British reining rider Francesca Sternberg, from East Sussex, has achieved third place in the end-of-year reining world rankings.

Francesca rides her own seven-year-old Quarter Horse stallion, Smart A Little, who was bred in Austria.

The non-pro rankings list is calculated from prize-money earning of horse and rider combination for a calendar year. No other European non-pro has ever attained such a high ranking on the list.

The full world standings can be viewed on the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) website at: www.nrha.com

New reining events

The FEI has announced that shows in Bremen and Dortmund has been approved as FEI Reining events (CRIs).

Besides the NRHA Lawson Bronze Trophy and the qualification for the German Championship Reining (FN), Bremen and Dortmund now offer the chance of qualifying for the $100.000 World Reining Masters 2004 in Oklahoma City, USA.

This makes Bremen (27-28 February) and Dortmund (12-14 March) the first two qualifying events for the World Reining Masters.

• Part of this article was originally published in Horse & Hound (29 January 2004).

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Britain’s Rosanne Sternberg took the individual silver medal at the inaugural FEI European Reining Championship held at Reggio Emilia, in Italy, last weekend.

Riding her own 14-year-old Quarter Horse stallion, Nijomi Sonny Reb, Rosanne scored 220.5 to head the second round and secure the silver medal. Germany’s Alexander Ripper and Solanos Warnee Boy took gold, with Marco Ricotta and Millennium bronze medallists.

The team competition was won by Germany, with Italy second and Switzerland third. Britain’s squad of Francesca Sternberg, Rosanne Sternberg, Doug Allen and Susannah Anderson finished fourth, just half a point behind Switzerland.

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The FEI is introducing an international series for reining next year, with the inaugural World Reining Masters Series Finals held in conjunction with the 2004 NRHA Futurity & Championship Show in Oklahoma City, USA.

The series will include qualifying events – with significant prize money on offer – for individual riders competing on horses that are six-years-old and older.

“It is hoped that the World Reining Master Series will encourage the continued growth of reining internationally, perhaps leading up to Olympic participation,” says FEI Reining Committee Chairman Frank Costantini.

“One of the goals of the program is to introduce reining to even more countries than participated in its debut at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain. We are hoping that a minimum of fifteen countries will participate in the Reining Masters Series in 2004.”

Reining was first accepted by the FEI for international competition in 2000, and was included in the 2002 World Equestrian Games.

“The FEI is very proud to announce these opportunities for reining,” says FEI sports director Michael Stone. “Building on the momentum reining created during the 2002 World Equestrian Games, the Reining Masters Series will be an effective tool in the continued development and promotion of international reining events.”

The 2005 World Reining Masters Finals are likely to be held at a venue in Europe.

Boost for British reining

Britain’s Francesca Sternberg is lying second in the world non-pro rankings with her six-year-old stallion, Smart A Little, after a successful European campaign in which she competed in seven events in six weeks, netting £50,000 in prize-money.

It is believed to be the first time that a European rider has reached such a high level in the rankings, which are dominated by the Americans.

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