2013 Youth Natl's: Pattern Songs

When it comes to choosing a pattern song for Youth Nationals, few riders consider the weight that such a song carries for their success. However, I'm here to tell you that it can alter the image you project, increase your "cool" factor (obviously you want to be the kid with the awesome pattern song), and most importantly, it will calm you and give you confidence as you complete the challenging patterns Youth Nationals tends to throw at you. And now that I've built this task up, I'm going to make this process a little less daunting. Your suit may fit well, your horse may be a pattern whiz, but girl (or boy), your perfect pattern song is just waiting to be found! I will begin by listing the main considerations of your search:

1. Appropriateness. This is a given. Swearing, suggestive language--just keep it clean, kids. 

2. Time and length. A pattern usually lasts no more than a minute and a half, so the beginning is all you will really hear. Sometimes the first 10 seconds really sets you up for strong impression. If your song doesn't really open up until much after that, you might want to choose another. 

3. Play it at home. Ride with your song at home. Even if it's just in the walking cool-down after your lesson. And then go home and play it. Still like it? Assess from here. 

4. Pay attention to how it makes you FEEL. Does the song make you happy? Music is intensely linked to memory and offers one of the quickest ways to access to emotion, so make sure the song is surrounded by positivity. 

5. Does it match the pace of your horse? A quick-trotting horse needs a song with a similar tempo. The same goes for a quiet horse--just find a song that matches. 

6. Don't be afraid to look into the past. Just a quick question--do you think a judge would prefer a song from their own youth or a bubbly pop song that they have never heard before? This is something to keep in mind considering their opinion is a pretty vital one! 

Start with these and branch out to find your perfect match! As you can probably tell, my personal opinion falls somewhere in between a "I'm so cool and retro" choice and a "look how fresh and modern I am" option. Spotify is a great place to find these songs, similar artists, and make a playlist of potential pattern songs! I wish you luck in your quest and, of course, at Youth Nationals!

Confessions of a First Time Show Go-er: Day 4

For the Love of Arabians

Here’s the thing, I come from a world that considers paying a couple of hundred bucks for a puppy excessive. So it makes sense that this Arabian Horse Showing world seems a little bit overwhelming for the likes of me. Understand, though, that these overwhelmed feelings come from a place of admiration and respect (maybe a touch of longing jealousy, I mean… obviously). What I’ve come to realize and understand is that there is a purpose and reason behind this horse showing business. It’s not just for status (for the most part, it seems. Though, those kids probably circle around just like they do in every other business) but all of this is for the breed, those intelligent little Arabians. Listening to people talk about these most beloved animals, I get the feeling of pure, unadulterated love and passion. It reverberates through the arenas with each and every whoop and whistle, and with every loving clap, smile, and embrace around a horse’s neck when someone you love wins a championship or places top 10 or has a really good ride. That, my darling horse lovin’ friends, is what separates this from every other world I’ve visited. Sure, nice horses can be bought, but what can’t be purchased is everything else; the loving welcomes to this horse show newbie, the real soul-deep laughter shared among new friends, and the echoing happiness. The horses are what bring people into this planet within our planet; the people are what keep everyone around long term. I was allowed an all-access pass into your world, a place I’ve never seen before and might not get to see again (although, let’s be honest, I’m hooked and hope I get to come to many, many more horse shows). I’ve gotten to see the parts of the show world that not a lot of outside kids get to see and the honesty of it all is what I love the most. It’s an honest love, an honest passion, and a group of truth-telling horse lovers who are here for one thing and one thing only: the love of Arabians.

Thanks to everyone who has been so kind and gracious to me and shared their love, passion, and knowledge. I understand a lot more than I did and still have a lot more to learn, but I’m not bored yet, and I think that’s a testament to my teachers and friends. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll get to see you all around at an upcoming horse show or two!

-Lindsay

Lindsay and her new friend Kiss! 

In Remembrance...

Today is my brother's birthday, and to celebrate his existence, I want to share one of my favorite memories I have of him. Justin was really an incredible person. He radiated with love and happiness, and I can't imagine there was anyone who wasn't fond of his presence... His joy for life was truly contagious, and he is missed by family and loved ones every day.

I was young--6 or 7 probably. Justin was taking me out to the barn for the first time, just the two of us. It must have been one of the first times he had ever been out to the barn; it's safe to say that he didn't exactly know his way around a horse. Justin was 11 years older than me, and the age difference made our relationship a special one. Never a fight or misunderstanding, he was a great big brother to me. So when no one else was available to take me to PPA on an arctic December day for a lesson, Justin stepped up for his little sister. We arrived at the barn, which was unheated at the time, a less than convenient situation in blisteringly cold South Dakota. I gave Justin a quick tour around the barn, showing him everything I thought he needed to know about: all the stalls, my favorite horses, my locker, hoof picks, brushes, you know, the essentials. He smiled big at me as I showed him around, his cheeks plump and red from the bitter air. It was time to get my lesson horse out for the day. I would be riding Sergie, a red-bay purebred gelding with a gentle soul. Me and Justin retrieved him from the pasture, put him in the cross ties, and began to groom him.

"Justin, you have to brush him with the hair. And you have to get under his belly, and on his legs, and way up on top too."

He simply nodded to my young know-it-all instructions, and was a big help on the top of the back spot, which was far out my short reach. In my first years taking lessons, the pre and post riding groom took far longer than the actual lesson. But I didn't care. I loved the barn, riding, the smells, feeling soft horse hair under my fingertips, all of it. And it was great to finally bring my big brother along. Halfway through getting Sergie ready, we went into the lobby to warm up, leaving Sergie unattended for a few minutes. As you may be aware, horses don't particularly like being alone for even a moment's time, and soon, we would see that Sergie's nerves amounted to something of a mess for Justin and I. Upon returning from the lobby, we came around the corner and saw something that surprised us both--a real puzzle of a sight. A massive wet puddle, frothy in spots lay beneath Sergie, freshly sprouted in our absence. Me and Justin's eyes blew up in fright, not knowing what to say or do. I broke the silence with a naive declaration.

"Sergie threw up! He must be sick, Justin!" I was now worried about him. "We have to go tell Denise!"

"Oh. Yikes. Yes, let's go do that." Justin was worried too. He'd certainly never seen horse throw-up before.

We ran through the lobby hallway and into the other side of the barn where the main arena was. "Denise, Denise, Sergie just threw up!! You have to come quick!!" I shouted into the arena in fright. I was expecting the same sort of reaction from her that Justin and I were experiencing, however, she only blinked her eyes hard and showed a look of complete puzzlement.

"But Kara, horses can't throw up. That's not how their stomach works." She shared calmly, still taken aback by our declaration of fright. I looked up to Justin, who was just as surprised as I was. Surely that couldn't be correct, I thought.

"No, Denise, he really did! There's a big puddle under him and it looks like throw-up, I swear! Come see!"

She followed Justin and I over to Sergie's cross tie, and upon looking at the mystery puddle below his big belly, Denise couldn't help but smile big, holding back eruptions of laughter. "Yeah, that's definitely not throw-up guys."

"Hmm," Justin said. "Well, ahh, what do you suppose it is then?" He must have knew at that point what the unknown puddle was composed of, however, my young mind was still trying to wrap around the whole situation.

"Sergie peed." She simply stated, now holding a hand over her mouth to muffle the laughter.

No, certainly not, I thought. I looked at the puddle, up to a giggling Denise, and over to Justin, holding a look of embarrassment and about to break into laughter himself. Even though I was still dumbfounded with the shocking news, at least Sergie had only peed! What a relief!

"Ohh wow! We didn't know horses couldn't throw up! That's just crazy, Denise!" I said, now smiling big with relief and joy.

We were all laughing. I can guarantee that horse pee has never brought anyone so much joy as it gave us in that moment. I learned a lot that day. I learned that horses can't throw up, what horse pee looks like in a cross tie, and what a great big brother I had for helping me through it all.

Buddy, Buddy

There's something really special about a pair of ponies that are simply the best of friends. Whether they share a pasture together or have a stall-to-stall relationship, it's always fun to see. I mean who can resist that moment when you look out into the pasture and you see them scratching the backs of one another or playfully romping around in the grass?

Below are some cool photos of horse buddies showing the love. Enjoy!

http://ahtimes.com

The Beauty of the Industry

I was asked not too long ago what I love most about the Arabian industry... And it really got me thinking about what this industry has done for me in my 15 years of being a part of it. Wow, 15 years. Considering I'm only 21, it's obvious to say that I've spent my fair share on the back of a horse. In these years, showing horses has become a major part of who I am. It's something that I've loved since day one, at the spunky age of six, when I had no idea what role Arabians would end up playing in my life. The horses, the clothes, and the stakes have changed since the beginning, but ultimately, the happiness and the sense of being a part of something so great has never faded for me.

Every time I'm out at the barn, I think about how lucky I am to have had the opportunity to grow up with and show horses all my life. I cannot imagine my life without my beautiful, goodhearted, and hard working Arabian steeds that have helped me through so much. Without them, I would be a miserable sap with some other worthless hobby, fading away... Okay, I think you get the point.

To me, the industry is so much more than a circuit of shows to go to and talented horses and exhibitors from across the nation to meet, it has helped shaped me into the person I am today. Without the Arabian horse industry fighting to keep the breed alive and touching hearts all around the world, my and so many other lives wouldn't be the same. And that's what brings the people together. The common love of the Arabian horse. I've got it. You've got it. Ask the guy to your right--he's got it too. The Arabian brought us together, now it's our job to keep the breed going with prestige.

http://ahtimes.com

Pasture Ponies

One cloudy fall day, I spent the afternoon with my family's "retired show horses" in our pasture at home. The first of these boys is a crisp white National Champion halter gelding named Laamaj. The second is Laamaj's best friend and my first horse, Justin Kitabask aka "Justi". As I stepped into the pasture, they happily walked up to me and soon welcomed all the attention I was giving them. They stretched out their 20+ year old necks as I scratched their withers and under their bellies, and were even happier when I gave them some grain to nibble on. They're such sweet old boys and my family loves having this pair of handsome Arabian geldings decorating our home pasture.

The LIST

I've been victim to the Show Ring since the age of 8, and in those 13 years, I've gone through more horses than I can believe. Time after time, I've attempted to write a simple piece of notebook paper "the list" of Arabians I've owned and shown over the years, but I think it's about time I really reflect on each horse on a personal level. Every horse, good or bad, taught me things that shaped me into the rider I am today and brought me one step closer to understanding just how special the Arabian horse is. So here it goes. Something I've been meaning to put into words for a very long time.... It's The List.

1. Justin Kitabask (Justi)

2. Toi Rodgers (Toi)

3. Protege (Tucker)

4. Klassic Al Kool (Kool)

5. Cafe Latte (Latte)

6. Action Packed (Alex)

7. Captain N King (Captain)

8. EA Jam Session (Jam)

9. HF Park Avenue (Parker)

10. Ames Supreme (Supreme)

11. LLC Versyn

12. Governor Ghazi (Gov)

13. Lady Lorraina (Layla)

14.WSW Iron Will (Will)

15. Mistifyer (Bam Bam)
16. Ghazpacho (Taco)

17. Ames Celebration

Through this exclusive list, I will share stories from each memorable mount starting with my very first horse, Justin Kitabask, and ending with the most recent purchase, Ames Celebration. Sharing them in chronological order will give you the feel of my journey with the Arabian horse and where I am today. The days of "The List" are upon us... Enjoy!

http://ahtimes.com/

Time to Heal

One of the toughest situations for a horse owner to go through is when an injury strikes and the only bit of hope lies in the recovery. Whether it's a matter of a quick stall rest or a potentially career ending injury, it's never an easy thing for you or your horse to deal with. From the beginning, the news from the vet is exactly what you dreaded hearing. As you look at the X-rays, your eyes inevitably fill with tears and you're forced into the mindset of the 'future'. However, the not-so-wonderful thing about horses is that they are unable to tell you where it hurts, and worse yet, every time you ask the tell-all question: "on a scale of 1-10, how would you rate the pain?", they don't exactly deliver the answer you're looking for. Against your wildest dreams, your horse has yet to reply by stomping his hoof in correspondence to his level of pain, therefore leaving a constant air of uncertainty in the recovery process. Is he feeling better? How long is the perfect amount of time to cure his lameness? These are questions often answered by professionals, however, when it comes to horses, the 'perfect' amount of time is never an absolute surety.

I am currently in a situation with a recovering gelding. A torn check ligament at Regionals brought our show season to an abrupt halt, but he is definitely on the mend. Although it hasn't been ideal for me, the worse part is how 'Will' is dealing with his sudden lifestyle change. He looks at me with big, sad eyes, which I imagine to be wondering why I never ride him when I come out to barn anymore. He whinnies and stares endlessly into the pastures outside his window, longing to feel the grass under his hooves and grinding between his teeth. I wish I could explain that soon, he will be able to go outside and work hard like he used to, but I'm afraid he doesn't speak English very well (that's next on the list).

He and I both long for the day that I can put my saddle on him and ride like we do in the show ring. Until then, it's hand walking, treats galore, and lazy summer days with my 'recovering' horse.

http://ahtimes.com/

Just a Girl and her Horse

A girl and her horse share a bond like no other. It's an indescribable relationship unique to every pair. Here are a few inspirational photos that show how special that bond can be.

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Life After Youth

For those of you who have recently graduated from the youth division, I have some words of wisdom to keep you from spiraling into a "post-youth mourning phase" where you lament in your seemingly hopeless situation. Stay strong--I know what you're feeling. You already miss Youth Nationals, you know that aging out is the first step toward 'growing up,' and hey let's face it, you just don't like the way 18-39 sounds. I get it. But I have good news, my newly 'adult' friends. So here's your chance to get off the couch and put that pint of Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey away, because guess what... There is life after youth! Your horses will still be there for you next year, and I promise, riding doesn't automatically get 'serious' or less thrilling outside the youth division.

I've been in the adult division for 3 years now, and I assure you that my love for showing hasn't died down in the least. I still look forward to every show I'm able to go to, and nothing is better than a summer day spent at the barn. These are the things that growing up with Arabians has instilled in me for the rest of life--something that getting 'old' will never take from me.

Even though your years as a youth slowly fade away, your love for horses will never fade. Your memories of showing with your friends, spending time with your lovable Arabians, and of course, Youth Nationals, will become memories to hold close to your heart for the rest of your life.

English Gives Me Wings

Before I talk about the incredible English horse, please allow me to get a little cheesy. Okay, very cheesy; just bear with me. Think back to the part of the movie Titanic where Jack and Rose are at the front of ship and he tells her to close her eyes, step up, and grab onto the rail. Once he tells her to open her eyes to the Atlantic blue, cool breeze in her face, she gasps with delight and says the famous line "I'm flying, Jack!" Well, this feeling that Rose has, my friends, is how I feel when I'm riding an English horse. It's thrilling, surprising, and challenging--all at the same time. 

An English horse keeps me honest. He keeps me on my toes; I could never get careless or arrogant riding him. He knows that he is the show, and he's bound to prove himself every time he's in the show ring. Although getting in the ring is never easy. There is usually some form of the graceful sideways jump and upward leap (I'm just glad that the downward fall hasn't become a common occurrence for me). But we get back on track, and full speed ahead, we trot big and powerful into the entry. Then he sees the walls begin to close around him, inching closer to the big arena ahead. I feel his front end stall in fear, I see his ears lock forward, and I can almost hear him gasp in frightened excitement. From here, it's all on me. Our chances rest on my coolness, my ability to ease his nerves and get the best out of him.

Every gait is a challenge, yet so worth it in the thrill of the moment. In the trot, I see his powerful knees pop up when glancing over his strong shoulder, while I try to find the perfect tempo. It's that cadenced trot where he's about to run off his feet, but you're there to keep him together. There's nothing like catching your horse just before he breaks--that feeling you get when you know you've just prevented a major disaster from happening. Then, the walk. Oh, come on, right? Here I am, trying with all my might to relax him enough to get that four beat walk in, and I can practically hear the gears of his mind reeling and spinning in excitement. Whew, finally the canter. I hold on tight while he lunges forward into the canter, pulls hard on my grip of the reins, and pushes to build speed as we boom around the arena. I attempt to stay centered when he spooks and leaps toward the center of arena, my heart rate taking a leap of its own. But the joy ride is almost through--the final trot is here. I press my leg on his side, and as if he was poked with a branding iron, he's off like a rocket. As the crowd's volume increases, I see his neck slowly setting back farther and farther, his ears locking into a permanent forward position, and his trot getting stronger by the stride. But I'm not taken aback. This is what English is about. A big trot, big risks, and big gratification. Upon entering the lineup, I warmly pet his sweaty neck while he dances around, slowly winding down from the excitement. And when my number is called for champion, there is no better feeling. It's beyond flying. It's the ultimate payoff for my hard work and my horse's unsurpassed talent. And even though he's so terrified of the rose garland that it seems like a death sentence, all is well because he's an English horse. The thrill of flight cannot be achieved through ease and simplicity, he gives me wings through the challenge he presents me every time I ride him.

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Peace, Love, and Anxiety

Horses are incredibly intuitive animals. We've all heard that horses have the ability to sense fear, which is entirely true, however, what about their ability to sense other feelings? From past experiences, I believe that horses are very keen in reading all sorts of emotion, both on the ground and while you're riding them. Perceptiveness of a horse doesn't just come and go with certain emotions, it resonates into all aspects of human emotion.

When I'm feeling blue, I know where to go. I don't call my friends; I don't eat a pint of ice cream; I just go to the barn and visit my horses. Even the nostalgic smell of the barn helps speed up the process. Upon entering the far corner of my horse's stall, he eagerly spins his neck around to see who's stepped in. His welcoming ears pop forward, and with his neck down and relaxed, he saunters over to me. I caress his face with my hands as he searches my sweatshirt and jean pockets for treats, only to come up empty hoofed. The vibe is different between us today, and we can both sense it. He isn't nipping at shirt or shoving his head into me playfully, he is simply listening to my down emotion, letting me hug his neck in understanding.

And over the years, something really amazing has happened. Not only are my horses able to sense and feed off my emotion, but I can also reciprocate the favor. Often times, before a class or just during a taxing workout, I'll feel my horse start to brace in bridle, tighten in the poll, and tense up in his body. He is feeling anxious and on edge, and I need to do something before he has a full blown panic attack. The last thing he needs is a nervous wreck behind the wheel, so I loosen up my body and mind as much as possible. I comfort him slow and consistent cues, attempting to relax his tense, pre-show jitters. I picture his mind running with hundreds of wind-up toys that simply need a few moments of tranquility to wind down and clear out. And usually, my quiet confidence makes peace of the stressful situation and puts everyone involved at ease.

Whether it is the best of days or the worst of days, my horse has always been there for me, and no matter his condition, he always responds to me the way I need him to. And now that I find myself identifying with my horse's emotions more than ever, the least I can to do is pay it forward. I will forever offer my horses the same sort of solitude and understanding I have received from them over the years, because the relationship between horse and rider should be a mutual one, after all!

http://ahtimes.com/