11 12

THE INAUGURAL GREAT EQUESTRIAN FITNESS CHALLENGE RESULTS, MA EDITION

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 12, 2023 — Sponsored by Boot Barn, the very first annual Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge took place at Equine Affaire in Massachusetts on Saturday, November 11. Equestrians of all ages enjoyed competing in the GEFC — or cheering on for their friends and barnmates — while equestrian fitness coach, Ifa Simmonds, coached and announced the three parts of the competition.

Participants could sign up for the Barn Chores Marathon, the Bouncy Pony Race, or the Horse Nugget Relay. The Barn Chores Marathon consisted of a challenging obstacle course filled with common — but challenging — horse care tasks, like hauling hay, carrying full water buckets, tying up a full hay net, moving bags of feed, and more. The Bouncy Pony Race featured a good old fashioned race on inflatable bouncy ponies. The Horse Nugget Relay — a teams event — consisted of teams racing to pick up as many horse nuggets as possible with a manure picker and filling a wheelbarrow.

FULL 2023 COMPETITION RESULTS – THE BARN CHORES MARATHON

1. Lydia Bajus – 2:24:80
2. Amy Thompson – 2:32:90
3. Owen Gay – 2:41:83
4. Dawn Brown – 2:43:14
5. Sheila Jones – 2:43:19
6. Amanda Damour – 2:50:25
7. Tracy Wood – 2:56:74
8. Emma Gooden – 3:16:30
9. Tatyanna Warschel – 3:23:09
10. Heather Worshel – 3:46:87
11. David Lawrence – 7:01:00
12. Brandon Price – 3:21:55 (penalized for bucket spill)

FULL 2023 COMPETITION RESULTS – THE BOUNCY PONY RACE #1

1. Elsa Lately
2. Meghan Foster
3. Alexis McCauley
4. Harleigh Nealon

FULL 2023 COMPETITION RESULTS – THE BOUNCY PONY RACE #2

1. Dylan McCoskery
2. Susan Barrows
3. Aeva Snyder
4. Shyanne Thomas

FULL 2023 COMPETITION RESULTS – HORSE NUGGET RELAY #1

1. Chaos Acres: Nicole Czarnecki and Kasey Czarnecki
2. Mucking Maniacs: Dana and Steph Smolyn
3. Horse Moms: Christina Snyder and Karla Barrows
4. Thrall Farm Thunder: Dylan Sharp and Angela Lent

FULL 2023 COMPETITION RESULTS – HORSE NUGGET RELAY #2

1. Blossoms Team: Miriam Slate and Sarah Slate
2. The Paints: Nicki Pakkala and Kaija Pakkala
3. Mucking Maniacs #2: Kelly Benedeth and Ella Shattuck

Thank you all for helping to make the first Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge such a success! And start training for next year… you could be our next GEFC Champion!

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11 11

MEET THE CHAMPIONS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 11, 2023 — Sponsored by Chewy, the 2023 Versatile Horse & Rider Competition in Massachusetts was a fabulous hit on Friday, November 10. The event took place in the US Equestrian Arena and featured 25 hopefuls who competed for $5,500 in cash and other prizes over a challenging obstacle course that featured carrying a garrocha pole, a ground tying obstacle, a narrow bridge, a counter canter, a grain scoop toss, and more. Brittany Mayer of Cumberland, Rhode Island, took first and second place with her mounts, My Sharoana’s Time to Shine and Coppy That. Congratulations to Brittany on two splendid rides! As first place finisher, Brittany won $2,500 in cash, received a Champion rosette, and is the Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion. As second place finisher, she also won $1,500 and received a reserve champion rosette.

Third place finisher Rob West won $1,000 and a rosette on Moonshine Lady, while fourth place rider Scott Keyes won $500 and a rosette aboard KC.

Congratulations to all our competitors! Keep reading to learn more about Brittany and to see a full list of results and scores.


Brittany Mayer

First Place Horse: My Sharoana’s Time to Shine, 19 year old grade American Quarter Horse mare

Brittany is a trainer and a riding instructor from Cumberland, Rhode Island, and has competed in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition three times. This would be her third time competing aboard “Roanie,” and her first time back with Roanie since 2017. Brittany and Roanie have been a team for more than 12 years and enjoy showing Western pleasure, ranch versatility and English pleasure. When she isn’t in the show ring with Brittany, Roanie is used as a lesson horse and as a confidence booster for young horses to be ponied.

Brittany Mayer

Second Place Horse: Coppy That, 8 year old Mustang mare

This is her second time to ride “Copper” in the event. Brittany has known Copper for three years, but has been working consistently with the horse for the last year and a half. They enjoy showing ranch classes at pinto shows, working cattle, trail riding, and jumping.

FULL 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION RESULTS

1. Brittany Mayer – My Sharoana’s Time to Shine – Score: 70
2. Brittany Mayer – Coppy That – Score: 60
3. Rob West – Moonshine Lady – Score: 53
4. Scott Keyes – KC – Score: 53
5. Susan Mallery – Ayel YES – Score: 50
6. Mackenzie Kunz – A Little Touch of Pine – Score: 46
7. Hilary Dorazio – One Smart Red Pine – Score: 46
8. Anya Emmons – High Stylin’ Bobcat – 45
9. Francis Veillette – YCC Sophia-Montana – 45
10. Olivia Giuffrida – Tiny – Score: 45
11. Cheyenne Vaillancourt – Just Gonna Send It – Score: 44
12. April Baronas – I Can’t Even – Score: 43
13. Christina Morin – JMF New York Windfall – Score: 40
14. Kayla O’Leary – Wildfire – Score: 37
15. Rob West – Ranger – Score: 35
16. Melanie Davidson – Willow – Score: 33
17. Amanda Malone – Turbo – Score: 33
18. Jessica Knapp – River of Dreams – Score: 31
19. Gina Lamb – Chocky – Score: 31
20. Danielle Gauvin – Put A Little Pep In Your Step – Score 28
21. Amanda Malone – Amora – Score: 20
22: Lily Germano – Super Star Express – Time Out
23. Jessica Hogan – Bandit – Time Out
24. Katie Kortright – Foxwillow’s Blue Angel – Time Out
25. Jason Wooldridge – Chili – Time Out

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11 04

MEET THE RIDERS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION: PART FIVE

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 4, 2023 — It’s hard to believe that the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition is happening in less than one week! Sponsored by Chewy, this exciting competition features 25 horses and riders as they race the clock and each other in pursuit of $5,500 in cash and other prizes. Over the past few weeks, we’ve introduced you to this year’s competitors, five at a time. In this press release, help us welcome the final five competitors to the class of 2023!

Jason Wooldridge

Horse: Chili, 13 year old American Quarter Horse mare

Jason grew up on a small farm in western Massachusetts. When he was sixteen, he participated in a Mustang makeover competition and enjoyed training his horse. After high school, he attended Kentucky Horseshoeing School and then moved to Montana to apprentice with a farrier. While he was there, he started cowboying on a large cattle ranch. That’s when he began working closely with Chili, who was previously his mother’s horse. Chili worked on the ranch with Jason for two years before he sent her back home to be a broodmare. After weaning the mare’s second foal in October, Jason is eager to get back to work with Chili.

“She has only been trained in real ranch work, and I look forward to showing people what a ranch horse can do,” Jason says.

Brittany Mayer

Horse: Coppy That, 8 year old Mustang mare

Brittany is a trainer and riding instructor from Cumberland, Rhode Island. She has competed in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition three times, and this is her second time to ride “Copper” in the event. Brittany has known Copper for three years, but has been working consistently with the horse for the last year and a half. They enjoy showing ranch classes at pinto shows, working cattle, trail riding, and jumping.

Rob West

Horse: Moonshine Lady, 14 year old Mustang mare

“Moonshine” and Rob have been together since 2016 when they competed in the 2016 Virginia Extreme Mustang Makeover together. Moonshine was auctioned after the competition, but escaped from her new home soon after. After eight days of searching on horseback, Rob found her. He brought her home and they’ve been together ever since. They have participated in many competitions, including the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition several times. Rob says that Moonshine’s versatility is unmatched. He often relies on Moonshine to gentle many other horses, including other mustangs. In addition, she competes in hunter paces and has performed at the Hampton Classic Horse Show.

[no photo available]

Rob West

Horse: Ranger, 13 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Although he’s now safely in the hands of the Warrior Ranch Foundation, Ranger has quite the story behind him. He was originally rescued from a kill auction, then proved to be too much to handle for his original adopter. When he first arrived at WRF, he was full of fear and, it turned out, pain. Veterinarians discovered that he was in serious pain and advised a course of chiropractic work, acupuncture treatment, a period of rest, and then ground work. Once Ranger had recovered sufficiently for work, Rob West came on the scene. With Rob’s gentle ways, Ranger warmed up and Rob was able to begin riding him.

Through equine assisted learning, WRF provides a recreational therapeutic outlet for veterans, first responders, and their families. The veterans at WRF quickly grew attached to Ranger and could relate to some of his emotional issues. As Ranger grew and learned to trust again, he became a valuable member of the WRF herd and has helped many veterans. Rob, who is a US Army Veteran, and Ranger have developed a beautiful relationship. It will be exciting to see how they perform this year in the VHRC!

Lily Germano

Horse: Super Star Express, 21 year old American Paint Horse stallion

Lily and “Super” have been together for six years. During this time, they competed together in the summers while Lily was home from school. Pre-pandemic, they set a goal to compete at the 2020 Equine Affaire – but unfortunately, COVID hit and the event was canceled. After that, Super became injured and had to be in rehab for a year. Once he was back in working condition, they renewed their pursuit of eventually competing at Equine Affaire – only for Lily to then tear her ACL and have to undergo surgery and her own year-long period of rehabilitation. This fall, they are both finally healed – and ready to finally fulfill their long-awaited goal of riding in the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition.

***

If you’ve never seen the VHRC, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how it works. One at a time, a horse and rider pair races the clock as they navigate over, under, and around a series of obstacles in the coliseum arena. The obstacles are designed to test the communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Past obstacles have included jumps, balloon arches, pushing a salt block with a polo mallet, weaving poles, opening and closing rope gates, using a lance to spear a suspended ring, and many others. Riders receive limited information on the course until the afternoon of the competition, when they perform a walk-through and receive final instructions on how to navigate the various challenges.

An eleven-time world champion and multiple reserve world champion in ranch versatility, Greg Robinson of Valley View, Texas, will judge this year’s competition. The master of ceremonies will be Noah Rattner, the official Voice of Equine Affaire. The top five riders will win cash and rosettes, while the fifth through tenth place riders will receive rosettes. The first-place winner receives $2,500 in cash, a Champion rosette, and the title of “Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion.” The second-place rider wins $1,500 and a reserve champion rosette; third place earns $1,000 and a rosette; and fourth place wins $500 and a rosette.

Come to Equine Affaire on Friday, November 10, and watch the competition unfold in the coliseum. Learn more about the competitors for this exciting event by following along on our social media channels leading up to the event, and stay tuned after the event for results!

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11 02

MEET THE RIDERS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION: PART FOUR

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 1, 2023 — The Versatile Horse and Rider Competition, sponsored by Chewy, is happening next week! We have 25 pre-selected horses and riders who will be on site next week to take on our obstacle course, and we can’t wait. Who will become the 2023 Massachusetts Versatile Horse and Rider Champions? You’ll have to come to the event to find out!

If you’ve never seen the VHRC, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how it works. One at a time, a horse and rider pair races the clock as they navigate over, under, and around a series of obstacles in the coliseum arena. The obstacles are designed to test the communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Past obstacles have included jumps, balloon arches, pushing a salt block with a polo mallet, weaving poles, opening and closing rope gates, using a lance to spear a suspended ring, and many others. Riders receive limited information on the course until the afternoon of the competition, when they perform a walk-through and receive final instructions on how to navigate the various challenges.

Equine Affaire is proud to introduce you to this year’s class of 2023 VHRC Competitors. In this press release, meet the next five competitors:

Brittany Mayer

Horse: My Sharoana’s Time to Shine, 19 year old grade American Quarter Horse mare

Brittany is a trainer and a riding instructor from Cumberland, Rhode Island, and has competed in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition three times. This would be her third time competing aboard “Roanie,” and her first time back with Roanie since 2017. Brittany and Roanie have been a team for more than 12 years and enjoy showing Western pleasure, ranch versatility and English pleasure. When she isn’t in the show ring with Brittany, Roanie is used as a lesson horse and as a confidence booster for young horses to be ponied.

Danielle Gauvin

Horse: Put a Little Pep In Your Step, 18 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Danielle has been with “Peppe” for eight years now, although she has known him for longer. Peppe was previously an unfinished barrel horse. In their eight years together, they have branched out and created many memories along the way. They’ve competed in hunter/jumpers, competed in NBHA competitions in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and have competed in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition twice. Their list of accomplishments in the show pen includes qualifying for the NBHA World Championships multiple times, winning the Woodstock Fair Horse Show Barrel Classic/Challenge and the Woodstock Fair Horse Show Open Gymkhana Championships multiple times, and claiming many English show championships in hunters, jumpers, and eventing. They also recently won second place in the Woodstock Fair Horse Show Versatile Horse Challenge.

For fun, they like to cow sort, hunter pace, event, visit nursing homes, go swimming in the ocean, and learn about mounted cowboy shooting. Each year, they have improved in their standings and are hoping to come back for another chance to earn the title of Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champions.

“Peppe is talented in many areas of training and exceeds expectations every time he competes,” Danielle says.

Katie Kortright

Horse: Foxwillow’s Blue Angel, 10 year old Foxtrotter mare

When Katie was just fourteen, her dad brought home a one-year-old “Angel.” At the time, Katie knew nothing about horses. She took lessons for a year and a half and then decided to start her training journey with Angel.

“I was very determined, since someone told me I couldn’t do it,” Katie says. “It took us a long time to learn how to work together as a team, and it wasn’t easy, but I am proud of how far we’ve come.”

The pair started out doing obstacle challenges. Now, they ride English and Western, have participated in mounted games, liberty work, and trick riding, and have even begun driving. Katie is excited for the opportunity to compete with Angel in this year’s Versatile Horse and Rider Competition, which will be their first.

“Angel has quite the personality and is a cow horse at heart. Although she is a sassy mare who has her own opinions, she tries hard for me, and that’s all I could ask for,” Angel says. “I am determined and have big dreams, and Angel and I have plenty of time to get there.”

Gina Lamb

Horse: Chocky, 14 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Gina and Chocky have been a team for the past six years. They love competing in cowboy mounted shooting, ranch riding, hunter paces, and going trail riding, but that’s not all. Gina works for a non-profit organization called Warrior Ranch Foundation, which brings horses and people together for a greater purpose. Her horses are involved in her work there.

“My equine partners, Chocky and Chance, aren’t just horses,” Gina says. “They are therapy companions through equine assisted learning for veterans, first responders, and their families, spreading healing and joy in every interaction. As a coach and horse trainer at Warrior Ranch, I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for the horses with others.”

Gina is excited for the opportunity to tackle this year’s VHRC course with Chocky.

Anya Emmons

Horse: High Stylin’ Bobcat, 4 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Anya and “Little Peep” may be young – she’s nineteen and he’s only four! – but they are experienced. They’ve been together for two years and this is their third Equine Affaire together. They love the excitement of the VHRC as well as the opportunity to get dressed up.

***

An eleven-time world champion and multiple reserve world champion in ranch versatility, Greg Robinson of Valley View, Texas, will judge this year’s competition. The master of ceremonies will be Noah Rattner, the official Voice of Equine Affaire. The top five riders will win cash and rosettes, while the fifth through tenth place riders will receive rosettes. The first-place winner receives $2,500 in cash, a Champion rosette, and the title of “Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion.” The second-place rider wins $1,500 and a reserve champion rosette; third place earns $1,000 and a rosette; and fourth place wins $500 and a rosette.

Come to Equine Affaire on Friday, November 10, and watch the competition unfold in the coliseum. Learn more about the competitors for this exciting event by following along on our social media channels leading up to the event, and stay tuned after the event for results!

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10 26

MEET THE RIDERS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION: PART THREE

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 26, 2023 — With less than two weeks to go, we’re eagerly anticipating the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition, sponsored by Chewy! We’ve got 25 pre-selected horses and riders who are gearing up to tackle Equine Affaire’s famous obstacle course in pursuit of $5,500 in cash and other prizes. Who will become the 2023 Massachusetts Versatile Horse and Rider Champions? You’ll have to come to the event to find out!

If you’ve never seen the VHRC, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how it works. One at a time, a horse and rider pair races the clock as they navigate over, under, and around a series of obstacles in the coliseum arena. The obstacles are designed to test the communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Past obstacles have included jumps, balloon arches, pushing a salt block with a polo mallet, weaving poles, opening and closing rope gates, using a lance to spear a suspended ring, and many others. Riders receive limited information on the course until the afternoon of the competition, when they perform a walk-through and receive final instructions on how to navigate the various challenges.

Equine Affaire is proud to begin introducing you to this year’s class of 2023 VHRC Competitors. In this press release, meet the next five competitors:

Cheyenne Vaillancourt

Horse: Just Gotta Send It, 9 year old American Quarter Horse Mare

Cheyenne and “Caddy” hail from Hudson, New Hampshire. Before they came together in 2020, Caddy was a dressage and mounted shooting mount. Cheyenne has taught Caddy how to pull carts, pull logs, barrel race, pole bend, and more. Together, they’ve shown in flat classes and pleasure driving as well as competed in gymkhanas.

“Caddy is an all-around mare,” Cheyenne says.

Francis Veillette

Horse: YCC Sophia-Montana, 12 year old American Quarter Horse mare

Francis began riding at the age of six, but didn’t start competing until the last eight years when he teamed up with YCC Sophia-Montana. Together, they have won numerous extreme cowboy titles over the years, as well as a Provincial Reserve Champion title. They have also won competitions in other performance disciplines, such as ranch riding and obedience, to distinguish themselves on the show scene.

Melanie Davidson

Horse: Willow, 19 year old Haflinger mare

During their six years together, Melanie and Willow have dabbled in almost every discipline, but they especially enjoy trail riding on Long Island. Willow has held every position in the Smithtown Hunt including field master, whipper in, and fox, and has also tried dressage, reining, cow work, and gymkhanas. The pair enjoy participating in reenactments, often using swords, pistols, lances, and bows, as well as pulling equipment like cannons or wagons.

“She is a true war pony,” Melanie says. “She will jump anything in her path. If she can’t go over, she will go through. I don’t call many horses bombproof, but Willow is the exception.”

Olivia Giuffrida

Horse: Tiny, 13 year old Clydesdale cross mare

Olivia has owned Tiny for four years. When the pair first came together, they were starting from scratch. Olivia says she didn’t have a clear direction for their journey together, but it was clear that they both liked trying new things and learning together. Three years later, they’re excited to be competing in the VHRC because versatility is one of the disciplines they enjoy most. They competed this past spring in Ohio and now they’re back for another try.

Amanda Malone

Horse: Turbo, 19 year old Norwegian Fjord gelding

Amanda and Turbo have been partners for five years. Turbo loves to compete in eventing, especially in cross-country, but he’s also a fan of trail and versatility competitions. Together, they’ve participated in parades, eventing, western sports, trail competitions, expos, demonstrations, and much more. Amanda and Turbo have competed in the VHRC four times, and each time, they come away with new things to practice as well as having made new friends. Last fall, they placed in the top ten at the 2022 Massachusetts VHRC, and they competed again this past spring in Ohio.

***

An eleven-time world champion and multiple reserve world champion in ranch versatility, Greg Robinson of Valley View, Texas, will judge this year’s competition. The master of ceremonies will be Noah Rattner, the official Voice of Equine Affaire. The top five riders will win cash and rosettes, while the fifth through tenth place riders will receive rosettes. The first-place winner receives $2,500 in cash, a Champion rosette, and the title of “Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion.” The second-place rider wins $1,500 and a reserve champion rosette; third place earns $1,000 and a rosette; and fourth place wins $500 and a rosette.

Come to Equine Affaire on Friday, November 10, and watch the competition unfold in the coliseum. Learn more about the competitors for this exciting event by following along on our social media channels leading up to the event, and stay tuned after the event for results!

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10 24

MEET THE RIDERS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION: PART TWO

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 24, 2023 — On Friday, November 10, during Equine Affaire, the 2023 Versatile Horse and Rider Competition will take place in the US Equestrian Coliseum. Sponsored by Chewy, this exciting competition pits approximately 25 pre-selected horses and riders against each other in the pursuit of $5,500 in cash and other prizes, as well as the coveted title of the Versatile Horse and Rider Champion.

If you’ve never seen the VHRC, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how it works. One at a time, a horse and rider pair races the clock as they navigate over, under, and around a series of obstacles in the coliseum arena. The obstacles are designed to test the communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Past obstacles have included jumps, balloon arches, pushing a salt block with a polo mallet, weaving poles, opening and closing rope gates, using a lance to spear a suspended ring, and many others. Riders receive limited information on the course until the afternoon of the competition, when they perform a walk-through and receive final instructions on how to navigate the various challenges.

Equine Affaire is proud to begin introducing you to this year’s class of 2023 VHRC Competitors. In this press release, meet the next five competitors:

Jessica Knapp

Horse: River of Dreams, 12-year-old Holsteiner/Welsh gelding

Together for eight years, Jessica and “Riv” enjoy hunter/jumpers. They have competed in the Massachusetts VHRC before and have been working hard since their last run to overcome the obstacles that challenged them during their round. They now ride in .80 jumper classes at both local and A circuit shows. This season, they’ve also padded their schedule with versatility clinics and competitions in an effort to sharpen the skills

needed to succeed in the VHRC. According to Jessica, Riv is brave, curious, and intelligent, and enjoys traveling to different venues.

“The bond we share is strong,” Jessica says. “I believe it has to do with stretching outside of our comfort zones as much as possible. I have been hoping to earn another shot at Equine Affaire’s VHRC ever since our go last year. I am extremely proud and grateful to be given another opportunity to participate in this awesome event with Riv!”

MacKenzie Kunz

Horse: A Little Touch of Pixie, 11 year old American Quarter Horse mare

MacKenzie has owned “Magik” since she was a foal and trained her all by herself with the help of many lessons and clinics along the way. They have competed in numerous different disciplines such as dressage, Western pleasure, and their favorite discipline, extreme cowboy racing. They’ve been competing for four years in extreme cowboy challenges locally, provincially, and world-wide. They enjoy the adrenaline of competing against the clock and improving their horsemanship and trust skills along the way with every obstacle.

“I love challenging my horse and rider connection and our relationship every time we set off through new obstacles,” MacKenzie says.


Susan Mallery

Horse: Ayel YES, 17 year old Haflinger mare

Susan is a horse-crazy kid turned into a horse addicted adult. She has dabbled in many different horse sports: trail riding, dressage, eventing, jumpers, hunter paces, competitive trail, draft (working & showing), pleasure and combined driving, working equitation, trail obstacle, and more recently, versatility and even polo! She bred and raised Haflingers for nearly 30 years and showed Haflingers for a number of years in the 90s. She has trained her own horses for riding and driving. Her passion is combined driving, and she is hoping her youngest home-bred horse, who is now 3, will be suitable to fill his dam’s shoes and be competitive up to intermediate level or FEI.

Susan acquired Ayel YES, better known as “Allie,” in 2014 from Dirk & Karen Young of Twin Birch Farm. She was imported by them in 2007 from her breeder in Germany. Since coming to Sue, Allie has competed in eventing, primarily beginner novice, having earned a couple firsts, some top threes, and finishing 6th in the USEA Area 1 championship a few years ago. She has done a number of schooling jumper events, up to 3’, and has been very successful at that. This year, the pair has competed in a few working equitation shows. Sue says that Allie loves the run and jump part of things and is somewhat less enthusiastic about the dressage game.

Sue and Allie competed at the Saratoga County Fair Versatile Horse competition, earning a 3rd behind 2 experienced competitors. Susan has always wanted to compete at the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition at Equine Affaire and figured this was the best time to give it a try!

Christina Morin

Horse: JMF New York Windfall, 17 year old Morgan gelding

Christina and “Moses” have been a team for 14 years. Together, they have competed in a variety of disciplines, including Western, saddleseat, huntseat, gymkana, and trail riding in local and 4-H shows and A-rated shows. Around the barn, Moses is known as the GOAT as he can do just about anything, but he also has quite the personality. Christina runs a small barn in northern New Hampshire offering boarding and riding lessons. Moses takes great pride in showing the tiny humans how to ride and helping them earn their first ribbons at horse shows. Christina is a 4-H horse project alumna and a carded 4-H horse show judge and steward. She enjoys a wide variety of horseback riding activities and has recently joined the world of eventing, having competed in the New England Hunter Trials and her first cross country schooling show. Even in the winter, Christina says there’s something to do horseback: skijoring!

“I’ve wanted to compete in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition since I was a kid,” Christina says. “Bring on the next adventure!”

Kayla O’Leary

Horse: Wildfire, 13 year old Mustang mare

Kayla and “Wildfire” have competed in many local Western and ranch pleasure shows in the open division. This year, they progressed in mounted shooting by traveling and competing in the northeast. They’ve also participated in numerous parades and cavalry demonstrations, representing Teddy Roosevelt’s rough riders from the Spanish-American war. The cavalry demonstrations show a rider’s skill at arms using a saber, lance, and pistols, in addition to mounted drill formations. When Wildfire and Kayla aren’t doing parades, demos, or competing, they enjoy spending their time riding the trails with friends, exploring different parks on Long Island, or riding through town to grab a bite to eat. They have also just begun learning how to drive.

***

An eleven-time world champion and multiple reserve world champion in ranch versatility, Greg Robinson of Valley View, Texas, will judge this year’s competition. The master of ceremonies will be Noah Rattner, the official Voice of Equine Affaire. The top five riders will win cash and rosettes, while the fifth through tenth place riders will receive rosettes. The first-place winner receives $2,500 in cash, a Champion rosette, and the title of “Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion.” The second-place rider wins $1,500 and a reserve champion rosette; third place earns $1,000 and a rosette; and fourth place wins $500 and a rosette. Who will win this year? You’ll have to attend to find out!

Come to Equine Affaire on Friday, November 10, and watch the competition unfold in the coliseum. Learn more about the competitors for this exciting event by following along on our social media channels leading up to the event, and stay tuned after the event for results!

 

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10 23

YOUR INSIDER’S GUIDE TO EQUINE AFFAIRE IS HERE!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 23, 2023 — The 25th anniversary of Equine Affaire is fast approaching, and we can’t wait to celebrate this incredible milestone with you! Crafted and curated for equestrians by equestrians, North America’s premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering will take place next month on November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition. Whether this fall marks your first pilgrimage to Equine Affaire or your fifteenth, this press release is your insider’s guide to getting the most out of your visit.

Keep reading to find out tips and tricks for enjoying your trip; links to all the latest info about the event; answers to your most frequently asked questions; and lots of info on what to see, where to go, and what to do on each day of the event!

WHERE IS IT, WHEN IS IT, AND HOW DO I GET THERE?

Equine Affaire will take place at the Eastern States Exposition on November 9-12, 2023. The Eastern States Exposition is located at 1305 Memorial Ave in beautiful W. Springfield, Massachusetts. Hours for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are from 9 am-7 pm (EST), and for Sunday, from 9 am-5 pm (EST).

Single day tickets and four-day passes for Equine Affaire are available for purchase here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/. Tickets are digital, so you’ll receive yours by email within minutes of ordering! Save them to your phone or other mobile device, then present them upon your arrival for easy, hassle-free entry.

All attendees should access the event via Gate 9. The Eastern States Exposition charges for parking, so be prepared to pay the parking attendants promptly when you arrive. Also, please leave your pets at home! We cannot allow any pets in any of the buildings, except for credentialed service dogs.

Need more information? Click here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-locationevent-hours/.

QUICK TIP: If you plan to come multiple days or would like to enter and leave repeatedly on the same day, purchase a parking pass from the ESE! Parking passes will be available for purchase from the parking attendants at the gate.

FAQ: When can I arrive to park on site? You can arrive and park as early as you wish, but the doors to all the exhibit buildings will remain locked until 9 am.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

Equine Affaire has negotiated room blocks and special discount rates at several hotels near the event. To receive the special rate, make sure to mention Equine Affaire when you call! Room blocks and discounted rates expire throughout October, so book early. See our list of host hotels here: https://www.equineaffaire.com/events/Massachusetts/mass-attend/host-hotels/

Want to camp? Camping is available on site at the ESE. There is no advance registration. The campgrounds will open to the public at 5:00 pm (EST) on Wednesday, November 8. You can call (413) 205-5374 for more information about camping. Learn more here: https://equineaffaire/com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-campinglodging/

QUICK TIP: All our host hotels are listed in order of distance from the event here (https://www.equineaffaire.com/events/Massachusetts/mass-attend/host-hotels/) and that page also includes room block expiration dates, so make sure to bookmark it!

HEY, WHAT’S FANTASIA?

We’re glad you asked! Fantasia is Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse. This two-hour spectacular is designed to showcase the beauty, athleticism, and grace of the horse through exciting performances by the nation’s top equine and equestrian performers. The show happens on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights during Equine Affaire in the Coliseum. The doors open at 6:45 pm and the show starts promptly at 7:30 pm.

Sponsored by Absorbine, this year’s Fantasia will showcase exciting drill team performances by the Young Guns; a beautiful display of grace and precision by the Friesian Heritage Drill Team; heart-pounding trick riding maneuvers by the Pegasus Riders; amazing bridleless jumping and dressage by Unbridled Wings; the power of the Whispery Pines Percherons and the Morrisville College Belgians; and a fabulous comedic performance by Bobby Kerr, the Mustang Man, plus more! Bobby Kerr’s performance is sponsored by Espana Silk.

Fantasia requires separate tickets, and tickets sell quickly, so buy yours today! You can purchase Fantasia tickets online at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/ or by calling our office at (740) 845-0085, M-F, 9 am-5 pm (EST).

QUICK TIP: Make sure to stay after the event for a special autograph signing session! All the performers come back out into the arena after the show to sign postcards and programs.

FAQ: Do I need to purchase separate tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia? Yes, you need to purchase general admission tickets to access Equine Affaire’s daytime activities and a separate ticket to attend Fantasia. However, if you arrive after 6:30 pm EST to attend only Fantasia, you will not have to purchase a general admission ticket to Equine Affaire.

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT {INSERT DISCIPLINE HERE}?

If you’re looking for a leg up on your riding, training, or horsemanship skills, Equine Affaire is the horse expo for you. Our educational programs and stellar line-ups of clinicians have formed the cornerstones of our events since the very first expo. This fall, we are proud to present an elite coterie of talented equestrians, including Mike Major, Julie Goodnight, Jason Irwin, Brandi Lyons, Chelsea Canedy, and many more. With hundreds of educational clinics, seminars, and demonstrations covering the gamut of horse-related topics, you’ll find out everything you ever needed or wanted to know about horses, horseback riding, horse health care and husbandry, and more.

Check out our schedule and presenters at this link to find the best clinics to attend for you and your area of interest: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/educational-program/mass-presenters/.

QUICK TIP: Many of our presenters will have booths in the trade show, and others are happy to answer quick questions or give brief tips after their clinics or seminars are over. The best questions to ask (according to our presenters) are short and sweet, with minimal background info, so try to keep your visit brief and to the point!

FAQ: How can I ride in a clinic at Equine Affaire?
Equine Affaire’s Ride with a Pro clinic program is a popular and affordable way to ride with and learn from one of your idols at Equine Affaire! Applications to ride in Massachusetts are available online starting in July and the deadline to apply is typically in early September. Learn more about Ride with a Pro here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/.

WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HORSES?

Equine Affaire is proud to be the gateway to the horse industry for many beginners! If you don’t know anything about horses, you’ve come to the right place. Start your visit at the Equine Fundamentals Forum in the Mallary South complex. The EFF features educational exhibits about horses, horse health, horse management, equine anatomy, and lots of hands-on activities, such as a mane and tail braiding station, an educational skeleton display, and lots more. There’s also a demo ring where horse-savvy experts will be hosting demonstrations on fundamental topics all day, every day, so there’s plenty to see and do and learn. We also suggest visiting the Breed Pavilion, where you can learn about breeds of horses from breed representatives, and touring the Horse & Farm Exhibits, where you can meet horsemen and horsewomen from a variety of local businesses and horse organizations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

QUICK TIP: Make sure to stop by the Equine Affaire Information Booth and tell our friendly staff that you’re brand new to Equine Affaire and to horses in general. They’ll have extra tips and info for you to help get you started!

WHERE DO I GO TO SHOP?

Equine Affaire is home to one of the nation’s largest horse-related trade shows. With hundreds of exhibitors spread out across multiple buildings, there are plenty of opportunities to kickstart your Christmas shopping season, fulfill wish lists for every horse lover in your family, or outfit your tack room with everything you need to train, feed, care for, or spoil every horse you own! Check out our list of vendors here (https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-trade-show/mass-exhibitors/)!

Love shopping for bargains? Located in the Mallary South, the Marketplace at Equine Affaire is a consignment shop where people just like you can drop off their gently used equestrian items for sale or browse for bargains among quality used equestrian goods. Learn more about consigning and shopping at the Marketplace here (https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-sell/mass-marketplace/).

QUICK TIP: Many exhibitors host raffles at their booths during the show. Make sure to take business cards or little slips of paper pre-filled with your name, mailing address, and email addresses to make entering raffles quick and easy! You can find a list of all the exhibitors holding raffles in the event program, too. You never know what you might win! (And for that matter, don’t forget to enter Equine Affaire’s raffle online: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/mass-free-raffle/!)

ARE THERE COMPETITIONS?

There are two competitions taking place at Equine Affaire! First, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition, sponsored by Chewy, will take place on Friday, November 10, 2023, in the Coliseum. This exciting competition features horses and riders riding an obstacle course created to test communication between horse and rider, as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Riders are competing for $5,500 in cash and other prizes. It’s one exciting race! Check it out here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/mass-versatile-horse-rider-competition/ and bookmark this page for the future to learn more about applying to compete!

Next, we’re introducing a brand-new competition to Equine Affaire in honor of our 25th anniversary! The Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge is free to enter for all attendees, no horses needed. Sponsored by Boot Barn, the GEFC is happening Saturday, November 11, at 1:30 pm in the Mallary South Arena. This fun competition features three different activities: the barn chores marathon, the bouncy pony race, and the horse nugget relay. Prizes will be awarded to the top ten participants in each event. You can sign up on site by visiting the announcer’s table outside the Mallary South Arena. Learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/great-equestrian-fitness-challenge/.

HOW CAN I MEET SOME COOL HORSES AND PEOPLE?

Visit the Breed Pavilion in the Stroh building, of course! The Breed Pavilion will showcase dozens of horse breeds and registries with origins in North America, Europe, and beyond. You can network with horse owners, research breeds, learn about national, regional, and local breed associations and their activities, and so much more.

After you’re done in the Breed Pavilion, take a stroll through C-barn and visit the Horse and Farm Exhibits. You can chat with barn and equine business owners, visit with industry professionals offering horses for sale, learn about rescues and sanctuaries, meet horses up for adoption, and plenty more. You might even see performers or clinicians getting ready for a demo or clinic or preparing for their turn in Fantasia.

Do you love draft horses? Then you’ll love Drive a Draft! Offered by the Whispery Pines Percherons, Drive a Draft is your opportunity to learn how to drive a draft horse or a pair of draft horses with the guidance and supervision of the experts, Sam and Kellie Rettinger. This incredible activity is included in the cost of general admission – all you have to do is sign up when you arrive at the event! Learn more about Drive a Draft by visiting https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/drive-a-draft/.

Are you a veteran? Check out A Horse for Heroes at Equine Affaire. We’ve partnered with Operation Horses and Heroes to provide veterans, first responders, and their families with the opportunity to experience the benefits of equine-assisted therapies and activities. This activity will take place on Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11 — Veterans Day! You can learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/a-horse-for-heroes/.

Would you like to improve your balance and stability in the saddle? Then you need Equestrians in Motion! These fitness workshops are sponsored by Blue Seal-Sentinel and presented by Ifa Simmonds, an equestrian fitness trainer and clinician. Sign up in advance for your opportunity to learn from Ifa in one of three workshops at Equine Affaire, happening Thursday, Friday, and Sunday of the event. Here’s how: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/equestrians-in-motion/.

QUICK TIP: Ask all the questions! Our exhibitors love to share and showcase their equestrian experiences. Make sure to ask for business cards or pamphlets, too, especially if you’re interested in taking lessons, purchasing a horse, or asking for training services.

WHAT ABOUT THE KIDS?

Equine Affaire is a great place to take kids of all ages, especially horse-crazy ones. The Equine Fundamentals Forum has lots of fun activities, including an arts and crafts project area and a fun stick rodeo (3 pm daily!).

For young adults prepping for college, check out the College & Career Fair presentations by Dr. Karin Bump. Attend her sessions on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, then sign up for a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Bump to figure out how to match your equine interests with college and career options.

THIS SOUNDS GREAT! HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER/EXHIBIT/ADVERTISE/PARTICIPATE SOMEDAY?

Yes! You can learn more about how to volunteer, exhibit, advertise, or participate with Equine Affaire in the future by visiting www.equineaffaire.com.

MY QUESTION DIDN’T GET ASKED! NOW WHAT?

If you have more questions or need to get in touch with our staff, there are plenty of ways to reach out to us! Bookmark our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @equineaffaire, or call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00pm EST (M-F). We can’t wait to see you at Equine Affaire!

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10 17

MEET THE RIDERS OF THE 2023 VERSATILE HORSE & RIDER COMPETITION, MA EDITION: PART ONE

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 17, 2023 — Next month, Equine Affaire returns to the Eastern States Exposition in Massachusetts – and so does the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition! Sponsored by Chewy, this exciting competition pits approximately 25 pre-selected horses and riders against each other in the pursuit of $5,500 in cash and other prizes, as well as the coveted title of the Versatile Horse and Rider Champion.

The competition will take place on Friday, November 10, at 2 pm Eastern Time in the Coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition. Here’s how the competition works. One at a time, a horse and rider pair races the clock as they navigate over, under, and around a series of obstacles in the coliseum arena. The obstacles are designed to test the communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Past obstacles have included jumps, balloon arches, pushing a salt block with a polo mallet, weaving poles, opening and closing rope gates, using a lance to spear a suspended ring, and many others. Riders receive limited information on the course until the afternoon of the competition, when they perform a walk-through and receive final instructions on how to navigate the various challenges.

Greg Robinson of Valley View, Texas, will judge this year’s competition. Robinson is an 11-time world champion and multiple reserve world champion in every division of ranch versatility. The master of ceremonies will be Noah Rattner, the official Voice of Equine Affaire. The top five riders will win cash and rosettes, while the fifth through tenth place riders will receive rosettes. The first-place winner receives $2,500 in cash, a Champion rosette, and the title of “Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion.” The second-place rider wins $1,500 and a reserve champion rosette; third place earns $1,000 and a rosette; and fourth place wins $500 and a rosette. Who will win this year? You’ll have to attend to find out!

Equine Affaire is proud to begin introducing you to this year’s class of 2023 VHRC Competitors. In this press release, meet the first five competitors:

April Baronas

Horse: I Can’t Eeven, 8 year old Mustang mare

I Can’t Eeven or “Eevee” is an 8 year old Mustang mare from the Little Owyhee HMA. April has been working with her for over five years. Last December, Eevee became April’s first horse – presented on Christmas Eve with a big red bow, many tears, and all. Together, they’ve competed in everything from trail and obstacle work to dressage to ranch events and mounted police horse training. They have earned many top placings in local, regional, and national shows, including back-to-back trail division championships in 2021 and 2022 at the Woodstock Fair, 9th place at the 2022 MA VHRC, and 11th place in the 2023 OH VHRC.

“I appreciate how willing this little mare is to try anything and everything I ask her to,” April says. “She has completely changed how I approach riding, and my ultimate goal is just to have as much fun with her as I can. We look forward to the VHRC for not only the challenge of the course, but also the camaraderie of the competitors in the ring.”

Hilary Dorazio

Horse: One Smart Red Pine, 14 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Hilary and “Smarty” have been a team for twelve years. Smarty is owned by Jean Lindsey. Both Hilary and Jean have competed on Smarty, and the gelding has multiple championships, reserve championships, and high point awards to his credit.

“Smarty is a very athletic and truly all-around horse,” Hilary says. “He is a joy to ride. Participating in the VHRC has always been a dream of mine, and with Smarty as my partner, I am excited to see what we can do!”


Nicholas Fair

Horse: Cisco Coyote, 9 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Nicholas grew up riding Western in upstate New York. In high school, he drifted away from horses due to a lack of time and the expenses involved. Fast forward twenty years, and his six-year-old daughter asked if she could learn how to ride. Nicholas’ daughter began riding hunter/jumpers. One evening, Nicholas got the opportunity to swing a leg over a lesson horse and remembered how much he missed riding. Last fall, he began taking lessons at Hollis Ranch in Hollis, New Hampshire. After riding “Coyote” for eight months in many different disciplines, he purchased the gelding for his own. They began focusing more on versatility outside the arena, including working with Nicholas’ small herd of beef cattle.

“We are submitting together to compete in the VHRC as a good goal for our training together,” Nicholas said. “We want to be able to work my herd as a team. We’ve had a lot of fun getting to this point and hope to be able to compete at an even higher level come November.”

Jessica Hogan

Horse: Canoli Bandit, 19 year old Pinto/Walker gelding

Jessica is a 22 year old college student studying horse science. She hopes to earn a teaching certification so that someday, she can teach the Horse Science program for Nassau Boces. Jessica has been training horses since she was 18 years old and works with many special needs adults and children.

Jessica and “Bandit” competed in the 2022 Massachusetts VHRC. Unfortunately, they couldn’t finish the course due to a fall, so they’re eager to return and finish what they started!

“Bandit is spunky, forward, and requires a lot of attention, much like a toddler,” Jessica says. “My mom and I joke and call him our dumpster baby, because he was really thrown away. This year, we won Grand Champion in Open English Pleasure. I am so proud of our accomplishments. Bandit has taught me what it means to be a true horseman. I learned that progress takes patience and the ability to allow your horse to be himself, even if the outcome wasn’t your original intent.”

Scott Keyes

Horse: KC, 14 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Scott has been riding for 25 years, competing in many disciplines and riding many miles of trails in the process. He purchased KC as a 3 year old and started the gelding at a Buster McLaury clinic. He has trained KC himself.

The pair have competed in team roping, cattle sorting, versatility, and ranch horse, to name just a few. They also competed in the 2018 MA VHRC.

“KC has always been a reliable mount who is up for any challenge,” Scott says of his partner. “I love versatility because it combines speed and finesse and really challenges a horse’s brain.”

Are you excited for this year’s Versatile Horse and Rider Competition yet? Plan to attend Equine Affaire on Friday, November 10, and watch the competition unfold in the coliseum. Learn more about the competitors for this exciting event by following along on our social media channels leading up to the event, and stay tuned after the event for results!

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10 03

EQUINE AFFAIRE CELEBRATES TURNING 25 WITH NEW AWARDS, FEATURES, AND MORE!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 3, 2023 — Have you heard? Equine Affaire in Massachusetts is turning 25! Created by equestrians for equestrians, our four-day horse expo has been elevating the equestrian experience in the Bay State since 1998. That means during the last twenty-five years, Equine Affaire has provided equine-themed education, entertainment, networking opportunities, and more to hundreds of thousands of horse lovers from all over the world. This November, bring the whole barn and come to W. Springfield, MA, to enjoy an extra-special edition of North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering. This year’s event is brimming with all your favorite features – educational clinics, fun kids’ crafts, a fabulous trade show, exciting competitions, and more – plus a host of new additions and celebratory anniversary surprises!

Equine Affaire is happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Expo in W. Springfield. You can buy general admission tickets in advance by visiting equineaffaire.com or by calling the Equine Affaire office at 740-845-0085, or you can purchase your tickets at the gates when you arrive (cash only). Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, Fantasia, is also returning for three nights only on November 9-11! Fantasia is sponsored by Absorbine. Advance tickets for this special show are going quickly, so purchase yours today at equineaffaire.com before the night of your choice sells out.

So, what’s waiting for you at Equine Affaire? We’re glad you asked! In addition to everything you’ve come to know and love about Equine Affaire, we’re rolling out even more horsey fun and games:

  • It may be our anniversary, but we’re giving you the gift! In honor of our 25th anniversary, Equine Affaire will be distributing a limited supply of vouchers to the first twenty-five hundred guests to come through the gates of the Eastern States Exposition. Each voucher will be good for 25% off one item of Affaire Wear at the Equine Affaire Information Booth, located in the Better Living Center. Come early for a chance to get a voucher and then make sure to snag your souvenir of choice at the Equine Affaire Info Booth! One voucher per person, please. 
  • The Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge is a brand-new competition that’s free to enter for all Equine Affaire attendees, no horse required! Happening Saturday, November 11, at 1:00 pm in the Mallary South Arena, the GEFC will feature three fun events: a barn chores marathon, a bouncy pony race, and a horse nugget relay. To sign up, visit the announcer’s table outside the Mallary South Arena prior to the competition. Prizes will be awarded to the top ten participants in each event. Flex your hard-earned barn muscles and have a great time, or just come ready to cheer on your friends and enjoy commentary from our master of ceremonies, Ifa Simmonds!
  • Support your favorite trade show exhibitors through the inaugural Best Booth Award During the event, the Equine Affaire staff will select a class of finalists representing the “best booths” in the trade show. Then we’ll host an online contest via our Facebook to allow attendees to vote for the Best Booth at Equine Affaire! The winning booth will be declared on Saturday of the event and receive the honor of displaying a special “Best Booth” award banner at their booth for the rest of the trade show and until next year’s winner is declared. Keep an eye on the official Equine Affaire Facebook page during the event so you can vote for your favorite booth.
  • The Equine Affaire Exceptional Educator Award is used to recognize presenters and clinicians who have demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to providing top-tier education to audiences and riders at Equine Affaire. Throughout Equine Affaire history, the Exceptional Educator Award has been conferred only a handful of times. In fact, the last recipient of the Educational Educator Award was Julie Goodnight in 2008! We’re delighted to announce that we’re bestowing the Exceptional Educator Award on one hard-working and talented clinician at this year’s event. Who will it be? You’ll have to come to Equine Affaire to find out!
  • Every year, Horse Week unites the equine industry for the free equine streaming event of the year, showcasing films for horse people like documentaries, horse care and training videos, and lots more, on horseweek.tv. This year, the week-long film festival takes place November 5-11, 2023 – so naturally, Equine Affaire had to get in on the excitement! Make sure to join Equine Network at the Seminar Stage on Thursday, November 9, for a special Horse Week Viewing Party, starting at 5 pm.
  • Equestrians in Motion, sponsored by Blue Seal-Sentinel, is a fun new series of equestrian fitness workshops that debuted in Ohio this spring, and we’re delighted to bring these workshops to Massachusetts this fall! Presented by Ifa Simmonds, the owner and creator of Equestrian Fitness Academy, these in-person workshops will take place on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday of the event in the conference room of the Young Building. It’s free to participate, but there are limited slots available. Make sure to visit https://www.ifafit.com/lib to sign up before Equine Affaire gets here.
  • The free Equine Affaire raffle isn’t new, but it’s absolutely jam-packed this year with incredible prizes from trusted companies like Dubarry of Ireland – USA, Back On Track, October Design Equestrian Décor, Blue Seal-Sentinel, US Equestrian, and Equine Affaire. It’s free and easy to enter, and you need not be present to win. Make sure to enter online before November 13, 2023, for your chance to win big! Here’s where to enter: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/mass-free-raffle/.

The countdown to Equine Affaire in Massachusetts has begun! For everything you need to know to attend, visit www.equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts. Tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia are available online or by calling our office at 740-845-0085 to order over the phone. Looking for somewhere to stay? Discounted rates are available at our host hotels through early October, and camping options are available at the Eastern States Expo. Want to learn more about how to participate? You can bring horses for sale, exhibit in the trade show, consign gently-used horsey gear in the Marketplace Consignment Shop, apply to distribute advertising materials on our distribution tables, participate in the Breed Pavilion or Horse & Farm Exhibits, and lots more. Visit our website or call our office for more details.

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its generous sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, LRP Matting, Chewy, Triple Crown Nutrition, and Blue Seal-Sentinel. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com) and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X @equineaffaire. We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

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09 12

UNLOCK YOUR BEST RIDE

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, September 12, 2023 — Have you heard the news yet? If you’re looking for a leg up on your riding, training, or horsemanship skills, Equine Affaire is the horse expo for you! North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its event in Massachusetts this November. In the process, we’re presenting a superb lineup of equestrian educators, including World Champions, National Champions, Olympians, popular equestrian TV personalities, professional equine performers, authors, judges, veterinarians, professors, and many more. Plan your pilgrimage to W. Springfield, MA, for four incredible days of learning and inspiration at Equine Affaire, November 9-12, 2023. No matter what your skill level is, come as you are – and once the show ends, you’ll go back to your barn feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to ride.

This fall, Equine Affaire is proud to present Mike Major, Julie Goodnight, Jason Irwin, Brandi Lyons, and Chelsea Canedy, as well as an elite coterie of equestrian educators that include Phillip Dutton (eventing), Steffen Peters (dressage), Andrew Welles (hunter/jumper), Greg Robinson (ranch horse versatility), Jeanne McDonald (dressage), Mark Bolender (mountain trail), Stacey Giere (driving), Bronwyn Irwin (pole bending), Lynn Newton (Western dressage), Carl Bledsoe (easy gaited horses), Sam & Kellie Rettinger (Draft Horses), Jim Masterson (equine bodywork), Marty Whittle (Equi Yoga), Copper Hill Vaulting Team (vaulting), and dozens more. For a full list of presenters and topics, plus the latest event schedule, visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/educational-program/mass-presenters/.

Ready to learn more about this event’s headliners?

Mike Major hails from Bowie, TX, where he owns and operates Mike Major Horsemanship. Mr. Major has spent his lifetime starting, training, and showing horses in multiple Western disciplines, including ranch horse versatility, ranch riding, roping, cutting, cowhorse, and reining. He has won countless awards through American Quarter Horse Association and Stock Horse of Texas events, including three AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Open World Championships, five AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Open Reserve World Championships, five SHOT Open World Championships, two World’s Greatest Versatility Ranch Horse Championships, and many more. He has also received his AQHA 50 Year Breeder Certificate. Mr. Major specializes in enhancing the clarity of communication between the horse and rider through body control and softness in order to succeed in all disciplines and at all levels. In addition to his accomplishments in the show pen, Mr. Major is an avid supporter of the industry, serving as a Special Advisor to the Mustang Heritage Foundation and as a member of the AQHA Ranch Horse Committee.

Growing up in the 1960s on a small horse farm in central Florida, Julie Goodnight developed a connection with horses from a young age. Now an internationally renowned trainer and clinician, Ms. Goodnight is a rarity in that she has ridden and trained extensively in multiple disciplines, both English and Western, working with many breeds. Her focus is on classical horsemanship and developing the horse and rider’s relationship. Ms. Goodnight started her horse training business in 1985. Her methods are grounded in natural horsemanship, classical riding, and understanding what motivates horses. She teaches at clinics, expos and special events everywhere, and produces an award-winning podcast, “Ride On with Julie Goodnight.” Ms. Goodnight travels both domestically and internationally to lead riding adventures and teach horsemanship. She was named Exceptional Equestrian Educator by Equine Affaire, and is Spokesperson for the Certified Horsemanship Association, an organization focused on promoting safety and excellence in horsemanship. She holds their highest level of certification, Master Clinic Instructor.

Jason Irwin is a lifelong equestrian and horse trainer from Ontario, Canada. He and his wife, Bronwyn, operate Jason and Bronwyn Irwin Horsemanship. Together, they teach horse training clinics, put on training demonstrations, and present at horse events throughout North America. Mr. Irwin began his training career focusing on colt starting and fixing problem horses and later added advanced training and liberty work. Mr. Irwin works with both western and English riders of all skill levels. Jason and Bronwyn host the TV show “The Horse Trainers” on The Cowboy Channel Canada and RFD-TV Canada. They have created several video training series and regularly post training information on their social media accounts.

To say that Brandi Lyons has completed the John Lyons certification program would be an understatement. Ms. Lyons grew up under the daily tutelage of her father on the family’s cattle ranch in Colorado and accompanied him on many of his cross-country trips to symposia and expos. She now continues the Lyons legacy teaching a new generation of riders and trainers the natural horsemanship training methods she acquired and continued to develop. For the past 18 years, she has been growing and developing her own business in the equine industry and spent many years traveling coast to coast to teach clinics. In 2008, Ms. Lyons took a hiatus from her cross-country travels to raise her daughters. However, it was not long before she started to train horses again and started her own business, No Limits Horsemanship, at her ranch in Rio Verde, AZ. Since then, Ms. Lyons has worked with many riders and horses through clinics, lessons, and a certification program for other trainers hosted at her ranch. She has also resumed her nationwide clinic travels, where she educates horses and riders on horsemanship; ranch sorting; conquering trails and obstacles; performance; and trick training.

As an upper-level event rider with a vast knowledge of horse behavior and natural horsemanship, Chelsea Canedy is able to identify and develop the potential in a horse with empathy, patience, and understanding. Her philosophy with every ride is “reward the try and celebrate even 1% better.” Meditation and mental performance have been pillars of Chelsea’s career with horses and previously, as a social worker. This allows her to connect with riders who struggle with nerves, fear, staying present, or those who are just looking to reconnect with their goals. Ms. Canedy is currently based at Unexpected Farm in Wales, ME, where she is helping connect riders in Area 1 to the bustling world of upper level eventing through her network of fellow professional riders and clinic opportunities. She winters in Ocala, FL.

Equine Affaire will celebrate its 25th event in Massachusetts, November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Make plans today to attend and enjoy a celebratory four-day weekend of educational opportunities, shopping, exciting competitions, fun activities, and much more, all centered around the love of the horse. Spend a day – or four days! – enjoying all that this spectacular expo has to offer, then plan to spend at least one evening attending Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse. Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia is a two-hour nighttime spectacular that will take place for three nights only in the Eastern States Exposition’s coliseum on November 9, 10, and 11. Separate tickets are required for Fantasia. Tickets for both events are on sale now at equineaffaire.com.

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, LRP Matting, Chewy, Triple Crown Nutrition, and Blue Seal. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com) and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X @equineaffaire. We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

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ELEVATING THE EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE SINCE 1994 TM