Wilmington, Ohio Hunter Derby Friday returned to the R+L Arena at World Equestrian Center Wilmington with the $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunter Derby of Fall Classic I. Of 20 horse-and-rider combinations, Havens Schatt caught the ride on the Rineharts Bond (Clarimo) to top the leaderboard, and also claimed second place aboard Julie McNerneys Chacoolou (Chacoon Blue x Hauptstutbuch 1 Balancelle). Bobby Murphy (USA)[...]Read MoreThe post Havens Schatt & Bond Lead the Way in the $15,000 USHJA National Open Hunter Derby of WEC Wilmington Fall Classic I appeared first on World Equestrian Center.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Ride EquiSafe (@rideequisafe)Its been a heck of a week for anyone in the path of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Helene. The storm came ashore late last night in Floridas Big Bend region and has since worked its way northwest, leaving major flooding, property damage, and power loss in its wake. Stable View was one event affected by the storm, reporting over 30 downed trees and multiple damages to property (no injuries to horses or humans though) and causing the event to shift its start to today. We hope you have been able to stay safe, wherever you are! U.S. Weekend PreviewStable View Oktoberfest 2/3/4* & H.T. (SC):[Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]Spokane Sport Horse 10th Annual Fall H.T. (WA): [Website] [Entries] [Scoring] [Volunteer]Jump Start H.T. (KY): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]Sundance Farm H.T. (WI): [Website] [Entries/Times/Scoring]Tomora H.T. (CO): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]ESDCTA New Jersey H.T. (NJ): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scoring]Old Tavern H.T. (VA): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]Fleur de Leap H.T. (LA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scoring]Course Brook Farm Fall H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]Major International EventsFEI Nations Cup Lignires (France): [Website] [Entries, Timing, Scoring] [FEI TV Live Streams]Links & ReadingENs classified site, Sport Horse Nation, got a makeover! Were still the eventers-only online marketplace you know and love, but weve added advanced user features and upgraded search functionality to make it easier for riders to connect with the unicorns theyre searching for. Check it out today! Dont Forget! USEA Foundation Grant Applications Closing SoonFEI: Las Vegas World Cup Class Will Not Be Replaced This Year12 Ideas for Your Fall To-Do ListHow Much Does It Cost to Own a Horse?Sponsor Corner: World Equestrian Brands View this post on InstagramA post shared by World Equestrian Brands (@worldeqbrands)World Equestrian Brands ambassador Sharon White trusts Amerigo Saddles and Vespucci bridles, tack options without distractions because they fit well and hold up to the tough sport that is eventing. Learn more about these brands here. Video BreakWatch cross country live from the FEI Nations Cup leg at Lignires!

Emma Webb will get her latest fundraising challenge underway today (Saturday 28 September) when she starts her Hack to HOYS walk in memory of her teenage daughter Brodie, who died by suicide four years ago.Emma will walk the 140 miles from Newport in South Wales to Birmingham while pulling Miles, an 80kg life-size resin horse on wheels.The aim of the walk is to raise money for two charities: Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide and Riders Minds.Emmas daughter, Brodie, a talented rider, took her own life in 2020 at the age of 16.She was my purpose for living. As a mum of an only child, we were so close. I have all this love inside of me but nowhere for it to go, said Emma.When you lose the most important thing in your life you can either give up or go on. This is a positive way for me to channel that love and make a difference.It means the world to me to raise as much awareness as I can.Support from Prince WilliamHack to HOYS will be the third challenge Emma has undertaken.For her first, in 2021, she walked 285 miles a mile for each life lost to suicide in Wales the previous year.Emma Webb at the end of her epic journey in memory of her daughter at The London International Horse Show at ExCel in London on the 12 December 2023Last year, Emma pulled Miles a total of 160 miles from the David Broome Event Centre in Chepstow to the ExCeL London, arriving in time for the start of the London International Horse Show.During the challenge, Emma was joined by Prince William (see main image, above) who helped her to pull Miles for around 25 minutes.Emma has already raised over 60,000 and is hoping this challenge will see her top the 100,000 barrier.The route will pass through Bristol, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Evesham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick and Coventry.The aim is to reach Birmingham NEC on Tuesday 8 October, the day before Horse of the Year Show kicks off.Decorated horseshoesEmma will be wearing a tracker so people can follow her progress.Although itll be a little bit more hilly this time, our route will be mainly roads and well be more visible. The rural paths caused a few problems last time and weve learned from that, said Emma.Emma has made hundreds of decorated horseshoes to leave along the route. Each horseshoe contains a QR code linking to the DoItForBrodie website, which contains information on where to obtain help for those struggling with mental health issues.Suicide is the biggest killer of young people under the age of 35 in the UK and every year around 200 teenagers take their own lives.It isnt easy to start a conversation about suicide, but we must talk openly with our children and young people and reassure them that they are not alone and that help and support is available, said Emma.The Hack to HOYS route planner and live tracker can be found here.Related content#DoItForBrodie: Mother pulling life-size model horse across UK in memory of showjumper daughterMother completes epic challenge in memory of showjumper daughterMy saviour: how #Hack1000Miles helped support one riders mental healthSix ways hacking supports a riders mental healthThe post Bereaved mother sets off on 140-mile walk towing resin horse in memory of teenage daughter appeared first on Your Horse.

In terms of what you leave in your estate on death, horses for the purpose of the law are considered to be chattels basically, an itemto be left to your beneficiary (much like a piece of jewellery or a motor vehicle).Over the last few years there has been a significant increase in horse prices. Horses generally have become valuable assets to purchase and this applies not just to performance horses, but also to leisure horses who are mostly used for hacking, riding club all-rounders and all those in between.Could a dispute arise over your horse on death? The answer to this question is yes and it does happen.A recent study showed that only 35% of UK adults have made a will. A national report also found that 42% of adults in the UK had not spoken to anyone about what should happen to their estate upon their passing.What happens if you dont have a will?If you do not have a will, your estate passes under the law of intestacy. This means all your personal assets pass to your nearest living next of kin.It may be the case that you do not wish for your next of kin to receive your estate (or certain parts of it) and if this is the case, then you must make a will.This would of course include your horse. If the person receiving the estate is unfamiliar with horses and/or does not wish to keep the animal, it will be in their hands as to what happens to it and at their complete discretion.Note of wishesTheir chosen course of action may not be your wish. It is better to make a will with a note of wishes so that these can be carried out. However, a letter of wishes is generally non-binding.For example, if an individual shares their horse with their daughter/son, but their estate passes to their spouse, their spouse might want to sell the horse and take the proceeds, potentially causing a dispute and much upset for the co-owner.Giving guidance and an indication of what should happen to the animal, such as whether the horse should be sold or whether a co-owner should be given first refusal, can avoid disputes arising.Nominating the right person for your horseYou might already have a will in place, but does the person who you are leaving your estate to wish to take on your horse? Have you thought about your horse specifically in the will-making process?You can set out your wishes in a will or in a letter which accompanies your will. In some cases, it will be very straight forward. The horse will be advertised, sold and the funds will fall into the estate.Alternatively, the horse will pass to your beneficiary who may keep the horse for themselves and take over the legal ownership of it.Horses with little or no monetary valueMatters can be more problematic with older horses, retired horses or horses with medical issues or special needs. Although these horses are much loved, it may often be the case they have little or no monetary value.An important but emotive issue to discuss is whether you would want to have your horse put to sleep if you were not here to care for them.Consider the alternative: would you want your horse to end up in the wrong hands or be passed from pillar to post if they are older or have certain quirks/behavioural or medical issues?Older horses or those with medical issues can also be very expensive. Ongoing prescription medicines and vet bills add up and it may be that your beneficiary simply cannot (or will not want to) take this expense on.With the best will in the world, if your beneficiary does not wish to take an animal on, it cannot just be dropped on their doorstep as other personal items could be. This could lead to headaches for the estate administrators.In some cases, the beneficiary might wish to enter into a Deed of Variation or a disclaimer to provide for someone else to receive the horse instead.Who takes control of your horse on death?On death, the horse should be the responsibility of your personal representative (your executor or your administrator if there is no will) until they are able to pass the horse on to the beneficiary.If you keep your horse on livery, there will likely be plenty of people to step in and be care takers of the horse until their future is considered. However, caution needs to be taken by your personal representative to ensure that no harm comes to the horse which would reduce its value.In addition to making a will, it is always prudent to consider putting in place a plan or instructions if you stable your horse at your own property or a private yard where there are no others to assist.You might want to ask if a friend could be available to take over care of the horse on behalf of the executor in the interim or even move the horse to another yard for convenience.Making a will that covers horsesMaking a will which covers your horse can give you some say in what happens and can avoid disputes where there is argument over what happens to the horse.If the horse is of significant value, any beneficiary who has no interest in it will likely want the horse to be sold to realise the value. There may be another beneficiary who wants to keep the horse, but it cannot be split in half and cannot always be amicably shared.Regardless of their value, horses often become part of the family and are much loved. An argument over what is effectively a member of the family can be distressing, but is easily avoided by planning ahead.Do this in conjunction with your loved ones if possible, so that everyone is aware of what your wishes are, and make sure you have a valid will with instructions which deal with the practicalities of horse ownership.Disputes involving horsesA variety of disputes could arise concerning your horses future, even if a will is in place.It might be that it cannot be agreed as to who the animal belongs to or what should happen to it. Alternatively, it might be being withheld or removed without permission by another party.If a dispute arises, it will be dealt with in the same way as any normal estate dispute and the Court may be required to intervene.Like with any estate litigation, the first step would be for a letter of claim to be sent on behalf of the executors and/or the beneficiaries of the estate. This would set out:Legal background of the matter and the basis of the claimFactual backgroundDetails of the estateSuggestions as to a pragmatic way forward.Resolving disputesThe Civil Procedure Rules and the Court actively encourage that alternative dispute resolution (ADR) should be considered before any party escalate the matter to the Court.There are many useful forms of ADR that are available to parties to try and amicably resolve the issues without the costs and risks of issuing Court proceedings.These include:Round table meetings where the parties and their legal representatives can seek to discuss the facts, narrow the issues and find some common ground.Proposals in correspondence where parties can make suggestions as to a potential way forward.Mediation, where parties can use a mediator to help focus minds and find a solution as to the best way forward for all involved.Alternative dispute resolutionADR is often a much more cost effective resolution than issuing a claim in the Court for a judge to decide. It is extremely costly to issue a claim and to proceed to a fully contested trial. Proportionality (i.e. the value of the claim versus costs to trial) can quickly become an issue.Horse ownership can involve a huge amount of emotional and sentimental attachment which can cloud judgment to the point where even if it is massively disproportionate, an individual may be prepared to fight to the bitter end, whatever the cost.If a dispute cannot be resolved through ADR and Court proceedings are issued, the procedure will involve the service of documents, a case management conference (an initial hearing to deal with the next steps and sometimes deal with costs), disclosure, witness evidence, and eventually a trial.Going to trialTrials can be several days long depending on the number of witnesses, the volume of evidence and the complexity of the matter.When a matter proceeds to trial, parties are in the hands of the Court and judgment will be made, effectively determining a winner and a loser effectively.Costs to trial are usually significant. The costs position is normally that the loser pays the winners costs (or a proportion of them), which can be financially devastating for the unsuccessful party.Take steps now to protect your horseIn conclusion, there are many steps which can be taken to reduce the risk of a dispute arising in respect of equines. The most useful first step is to leave a clear and detailed will with letter of wishes.Horses are often dearly loved members of the family, but this can become an issue, especially when the animal is of significant value.What the horse means to one person, it does not necessarily mean to another and this is where highly emotive issues can arise.Main image: ShutterstockRelated contentWhat happens to your horse if you get a divorce?Buying an equestrian property: important things to considerEquine solicitor explains what the Highway Code changes mean for horse ridersUltimate guide to horse health insurance and vet fees coverOperation Snap: what it is and why more riders need to use itThe post Solicitor advice for writing a will that protects your horse if you die appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Post-Pandemic Demand - Heightened demand during and after COVID-19 pandemic - Increase in recreational and sport horse ownership - Government aid and stimulus checks provided financial means to buy horses - Limited supply due to reduced breeding in preceding years Economic Factors and Inflation - Cost-of-living squeeze with high inflation, rising taxes, and increasing energy bills - Increased costs for horse care, feed, and maintenance - Higher costs passed on to buyers and owners Supply and Demand Imbalance - Less breeding in preceding years leading to fewer horses - Shortage of horses in certain age groups and breeds - Increased prices due to limited supply and high demand Specific Market Segments - Top-tier horses with desirable traits command high prices - Middle market sees softening with cautious and selective buyers - Buyers seek complete package: looks, safety, strong training, minimal maintenance Breeding and Training Costs - High costs of breeding and training quality horses - Specific breeds like Akhal-Teke and Dutch Warmblood have high values - Rigorous training and meticulous breeding programs increase horse prices Economic Uncertainty and Consumer Confidence - Impact of rising interest rates and recession fears - Decline in spending on recreational and competitive horses - Slowdown in market with some buyers waiting for price drops Industry Trends and Outlook - Steady growth in the horse and equine production industry - Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.6% - Industry revenue reaching $1.8 billion in 2023 - Challenges include lower feed prices and adapting to consumer preferences Conclusion - Horse prices influenced by post-pandemic demand, economic pressures, and supply imbalances - Importance of thorough research and considering all associated costs - Adaptation to economic uncertainties crucial for industry stakeholders Why Have Horse Prices Skyrocketed? Insights and Trends in the Equestrian World In recent years, the equestrian world has witnessed a significant surge in horse prices, leaving many potential buyers and existing horse owners perplexed. This phenomenon is not isolated but is part of a broader set of economic, social, and industry-specific factors. Here, we will delve into the key reasons behind the skyrocketing horse prices and explore the current trends shaping the equestrian market. Post-Pandemic Demand One of the primary drivers of the increased horse prices is the heightened demand that emerged during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. As people sought outdoor activities and ways to spend their time during lockdowns, many turned to horse riding and ownership. This surge in interest led to a significant increase in demand for horses, particularly for recreational and sport purposes. During this period, government aid and stimulus checks provided many Americans with the financial means to invest in horses, further fueling the demand. This increased demand, coupled with a limited supply of horses due to reduced breeding in the preceding years, created a perfect storm that drove prices upward. Economic Factors and Inflation The broader economic landscape has also played a crucial role in the rising costs of horses. The cost-of-living squeeze, characterized by high inflation, rising taxes, and increasing energy bills, has affected the equestrian world as much as any other industry. These economic pressures have led to higher costs for horse care, including feed, forage, and maintenance, which are then passed on to buyers and owners. For instance, livery yards and equine businesses are facing increased costs from various angles, such as higher wages due to minimum wage increases, expensive building materials, and rising energy prices. These costs are inevitably reflected in the prices of horses and equine services. Supply and Demand Imbalance The imbalance between supply and demand is another critical factor. In the years leading up to the pandemic, there was less demand for horses, resulting in fewer horses being bred. This reduction in breeding has led to a shortage of horses, particularly in certain age groups and breeds, which has driven up prices. Specific Market Segments Not all segments of the horse market are affected equally. Top-tier horses, especially those with strong performance records and desirable traits, continue to command high prices. However, the middle market has seen some softening, with buyers becoming more cautious and selective due to economic uncertainties. Buyers are increasingly looking for horses that offer a complete package: good looks, safety, strong training, and minimal maintenance. For example, hunters are seeking horses with good movement, jumpers need horses with good balance, and amateurs prefer easy-to-ride horses with a reliable temperament. Breeding and Training Costs The cost of breeding and training high-quality horses is another significant factor contributing to their high prices. Certain breeds, such as the Akhal-Teke, Dutch Warmblood, and Thoroughbred, are renowned for their athleticism and performance capabilities. These breeds undergo meticulous breeding programs and rigorous training, which increases their value. For instance, a well-trained and carefully bred Akhal-Teke can fetch up to 80,000 ($100,000), while a Dutch Warmblood can range from 4,000 to 25,000 or more, depending on its heritage, training, and age. Economic Uncertainty and Consumer Confidence Economic uncertainty, including rising interest rates and fears of a recession, has also impacted the horse market. As consumer confidence wanes, spending on horses for recreational and competitive purposes has decreased. This has led to a slowdown in the market, with some buyers waiting for prices to drop before making a purchase. Industry Trends and Outlook Despite the current challenges, the horse and other equine production industry is expected to grow steadily. Industry revenue has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.6% over the past five years, reaching an estimated $1.8 billion in 2023 (source: IBISWorld). The industry is projected to continue growing, driven by steady economic growth, surging exports due to a depreciating dollar, and increasing interest in equestrian activities. However, the industry also faces challenges such as lower feed prices, which could reduce revenue for horse farmers, and the need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions. Conclusion The skyrocketing prices of horses are a result of a complex interplay of factors, including post-pandemic demand, economic pressures, supply and demand imbalances, and the specific costs associated with breeding and training high-quality horses. As the equestrian world navigates these challenges, it is crucial for buyers, sellers, and industry stakeholders to be aware of the current trends and economic conditions. For those considering purchasing a horse, it is essential to do thorough research, consider all the associated costs, and perhaps explore options like leasing rather than buying. For the industry as a whole, adapting to economic uncertainties and focusing on providing value to consumers will be key to navigating the current market landscape. 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Read about the significance and prevalence of these injuries and how veterinarians diagnose them. The post Suspensory Ligament Branch Injuries appeared first on The Horse.

Photo courtesy of Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.The Retired Racehorse Project (RRP), a 501(c)3 charitable organization working to increase demand for Thoroughbreds beyond racing, today announced format changes to its flagship event, the Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, beginning with the 2025 competition year. The worlds largest retraining competition, the Thoroughbred Makeover is designed to not only showcase the trainability and athleticism of the several hundred horses who participate each year, but also to inspire more equestrians to consider a retired racehorse for their next competitive or recreational partner.Beginning in 2025, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the Thoroughbred Makeovers move to Kentucky, the Finale Championship event will be replaced by individual discipline championships, welcoming back the top ten highest-placed horses after preliminary competition. Discipline championships will take place in the same locations as preliminary rounds, and will call back twice as many horses to participate as the current Finale format; horses will go into the championship round on a clean slate score. Prize money previously awarded to the overall Thoroughbred Makeover Champion will be divided across all ten disciplines, allowing the RRP to pay out through sixth place.Over the past decade, the Thoroughbred Makeover has directly supported the transition of over 5,000 horses. While our Finale format has served us well, we felt it was time to freshen things up in a way that enhances the experience of our trainers, said RRP executive director Kirsten Green. Weve always been cognizant of what a commitment it is to get a horse to the Thoroughbred Makeover, and we want to recognize that commitment by opening up the path to the top for more participants. Logistically, this change also allows us to better showcase a greater number of talented horses to the public than previously possible via the Finale. Were excited to kick off this new format on our 10th anniversary year in Kentucky.The 2024 Thoroughbred Makeover and National Symposium, presented by Thoroughbred Charities of America, will be the final competition year to take place in the current format. This years event takes place October 9-12 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, with 353 horses having made a final entry. The event is free and open to the public: learn more about the Makeover at theRRP.org. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Retired Racehorse Project (@retiredracehorseproject)