INSIDE the April May 2017 issue
Vol 38 No 6 $7.50 AU, $7.95 NZ, App (for all devices) $5.99

GRANT WILSON NZ to Belgium by Sarah Warne
With five of his students, from five different countries, competing at the Rio Games, this New Zealander’s coaching skills are in demand from riders in Europe, the UK, the USA and Australia.

RIDING FOR YOURSELF by Wendy Elks
Competing in equestrian sport can have little allure for those whose aims are perfect harmony and communication with their horse and seek the joys and challenges of riding for its own sake.

REHOMING THE STANDARDBRED by Tanya McDermott
Looked down on for many years, the humble Standie has had an image makeover in recent years, with many now appreciating and seeking them out for their desirable traits, especially their excellent temperament and versatility.

FRENCH BRAIDS by Nicole Grove
Achieving perfect plaits was covered in the last edition. Nicole now demonstrates how to complete the winning look with a French braid for the forelock and tail.

HEALTHY HORSE, HEALTHY COAT
by Dr Jennifer Stewart
The condition of a horse’s coat can provide an indication as to their overall health, with a range of factors that can impact its appearance.Dr stewart offers a few tips so horse owners can minimise the possibility of their actions having a detrimental contribution to a problem coat.

A Double Bridle, like many training tools, is only as beneficial as the hands that hold it.		Learn to French Plait like the pros, with Nicole's tips.		The secret to a healthy coat is having a healthy horse.

SAFETY TIPS Holding Horses for Equine Professionals
Riding can be a risky activity, but so can handling horses on the ground. Safety awareness and good handling skills are important for yourself, and when handling your horse for others in attendance.

Left: Hold the horse NOT the phone.

THE UNDERBELLY OF THE SADDLE by Dr Ian Bidstrup
The final in the series of saddle design focuses on the saddle seat, which sits over the weakest part of the horse’s back and carries much of the rider’s weight, and girths.

FREEDOM TO PERFORM by Sarah Warne
A partnership between horse and rider is established over time, and requires achieving the balance between giving thehorse freedom while maintaining a connection.

SPAYING THE MARE by Kaye Meynell
Many horse owners prefer a gelding over a mare: mares often gaining a reputation as being temperamental and less reliable, their behaviour affected to varying degrees by their hormones. There are options available however, explains Dr Angus McKinnon, to manage oestrus with careful consideration required.

The Double Bridle and other tools by Sophie Warren
Not for the novice rider, equipment such as a double bridle and draw reins, and even a bitless bridle in harsh hands, requires correct usage and care.

TO CLEAN OR NOT TO CLEAN the Horse’s sheath by Mary Hitchcock
A build up of dirt and excretions inside a horse’s sheath can lead to problems, and questions arising as to should this area be cleaned, and how best and often to do it.

Standardbreds are finding 'forever' homes in all areas of performance , after their racing career.		Finding the balance between allowing your horse freedom to move freely without abandoning the contact..		These beans could be hiding in your horse's penis and affecting his health and performance.