Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) welcomes a significant increase in high performance funding from Sport Ireland, as the equestrian governing body builds towards the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. As part of a record investment in high performance sport of 27m in 2025, HSI will receive 900,000 each year from 2025-2028, a substantial 12 per cent increase in funding from that received between 2021 and 2024 in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics. Investment in HSIs High Performance Programme will total 3.6m between now and 2028, an increase of almost 400,000 which outlines the confidence Sport Ireland has in the national federation to deliver its programme and help Irish equestrian teams and athletes continue to excel on the international stage. High Performance funding provided by Sport Ireland to Horse Sport Ireland ensures that programmes to support athletes from youth to senior level are supported with team managers, veterinary care, training, etc. []

International equine charity World Horse Welfare is calling on members of the public to contact their MP and ask them to show their support for laws that will disrupt horse smuggling.World Horse Welfare is hosting an event in UK Parliament on Wednesday 2 April where it will ask the UK Government to take action to protect the thousands of horses that are being smuggled across UK and European borders each year.The charity is asking the public to contact their MP to make them aware of the event and encourage them to attend. At the event MPs will find out what they can do to help tackle the illegal trade.To email your local MP, click here, enter your postcode and then submit the letter. Every year, thousands of horses, ponies and donkeys are subjected to long and gruelling journeys across the UK and Europe, forced to experience awful conditions, as they are smuggled towards an unknown fate, said a spokesperson for World Horse Welfare.We need MPs to speak up and use their influence to ensure laws are put in place to protect these vulnerable animals from horse smugglers.In the newsHorse smuggling has been in the news recently due to two high profile cases theDover 26and theTrafficked 20 which saw groups of equines crammed onto horse transporters in horrific conditions being exported to Europe. Many of those found onboard did not have the necessary paperwork to travel and several were carrying infectious diseases. World Horse Welfare is appealing for stronger legislation to disrupt horse smuggling as well as the creation ofa centralised and fully digitalised ID and traceability system across the UK and EU states.World Horse Welfare believes a lack of accountability is being exploited by smugglers when the UK is used as a land bridge for moving horses between Ireland and the EU.Related contentCritical digital equine ID and traceability scheme paused by the governmentOutrage as 20 horses discovered being fraudulently transported out of the UKHorses smuggled out of Dover highlight sickening threat to vulnerable animalsCharity calls for update to legislation to stop horse smugglingThe post Charity asks public to write to their MP in attempt to end horse smuggling appeared first on Your Horse.

The Longines Global Champions Tour - Longines Paris Eiffel Jumping, an unmissable event where sport, culture and emotion meet, is proud to announce that internationally renowned artist and musician, Keziah Jones, has imagined and produced the official poster for its 11th edition. A LINE-UP THAT COMBINES THE RHYTHM AND ELEGANCE OF JUMPING Keziah Jones captures the essence of show jumping in a...

Speaking on a stage surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the Miss America Pageant, Sabrina Lewis stands out with her megawatt smile in her immaculate equestrian attire. Instead of displaying a conventional talent, such as dancing or singing, Sabrina is delivering a speech talking about her lifelong passion for horses.Photo by Kirstie Marie PhotographySabrina has spent her life championing representation, both in the horse world and on the pageant stage. As 2023-2024s Miss California, shes building an equine therapy program at Oakland City Stables while completing a graduate degree. Its clear this beauty queen is just getting started.Sabrinas Equestrian BackgroundSabrina does not come from a horse-centric family, and says equestrian is not a typical hobby for the African American community in Georgia, where she grew up. But Sabrinas neighbor Irina was from Russia, and she kept her horses at a nearby stable. Through her, Sabrina was introduced to horses at age 5.After school, she picked me and her kids up from school, and other neighborhood kids, and brought us to the barn after school, Sabrina says. Its funny, because she loved dressage, and her kids werent all that into it, but she taught me all she could on her horse. When she realized I was very into it, she encouraged my parents to enroll me in more formal lessons at the local riding school in Georgia.Feeling a friendship with horses, Sabrina was head-over-heelsand still is today.Ive always loved all animals, and I was just drawn to horsesI think theyre beautiful, majestic creatures, Sabrina says.Show jumping became Sabrinas equine sport of choice.I think I wanted more of a challenge than dressage, and I liked jumping over things, Sabrina says. After Id gotten the basics of riding on the flat down, and caring for horses and grooming, I started jumping, and I loved it. I felt like I was flying. You can go fast around the jumps or go slower, and jump higher. Its a rush, and its super exhilarating.Show jumping became Sabrinas equestrian discipline of choice because she loves the speed and exhilaration. Photo by Aelise GaglianoContinuing with riding lessons, Sabrina competed on an Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) team in high school, eventually becoming captain of the team. She credits her coach, Tracy Nininger, with furthering her horsemanship education. Nininger now teaches at Ardmore Equestrian Center in Fincastle, Va.That experience with IEA competition and training with Tracy prepared me for the transition to going to the collegiate level with the IHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Show Association), Sabrina says.Journey in EducationSabrina graduated high school with a 4.0 and a resume full of Advanced Placement classes and extracurriculars, such as volleyball and track, along with equestrian. Based on academics, she narrowed her choices of college to two on the West Coast: Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.I wanted to go to a prestigious school that would challenge me academically, Sabrina says. I got into Berkeley, and I visited the campus and fell in love. Eighteen-year-olds dont really think things through. I didnt know anybody, but I figured it would be fine. So I just packed my stuff up and left for this big adventure across the country.Sabrina joined the IHSA team at UC Berkeley and worked her way up to becoming team captain, as well as becoming a regional-level finalist. Sabrina went back to Georgia in the spring of 2020, her senior year, due to university protocols for the pandemic. After graduating with a degree in business administration and a minor in Spanish literature, she began pursuing her masters degree in public administration with a specialization in nonprofits at the University of Georgia. Her schooling is online, however, so shes back living in Los Angeles, Calif. Pageants and Volunteer WorkSabrina has also been competing in beauty pageants at the highest levels, and her community service initiative highlights her nonprofit work in equine therapy.When I competed for Miss USA in 2021, and for Miss America in 2023, my community service platform has always been equine therapy, Sabrina says. My end goal is to run my own therapeutic center as a nonprofit, with me as the executive director.Since 2012, Sabrina has volunteered with several equine therapy programs serving veterans, first responders, inner-city children, and people with disabilities. She currently volunteers as the Director of Fundraising for the Metropolitan Equestrian Preservation Society. She works on social media marketing, paperwork, funding, and grant writing.Sabrina currently volunteers as the Director of Fundraising for the Metropolitan Equestrian Preservation Society. Photo courtesy Sabrina LewisSabrina has also worked with the Compton Junior Equestrians in Compton, Calif. In 2024, she volunteered with the Happy Hooves nonprofit in the East Bay area of Northern California. I just want to make equine therapy more accessible, she says. I never wouldve known how much Id love horses, or wanted to go pro and go to competitions, if no one had introduced me to them. If I didnt have that next door neighbor, my life would look very different. So when I get to interact with kids and they tell me its their first time petting or riding a horse, thats so special to me.With Happy Hooves, Sabrina helps bring Miniature Horses to places like childrens hospitals, where kids can interact with them and be introduced to equine therapy.The work and the possibilities really are endless, she says.Chasing DreamsSabrina did not grow up competing in pageants. But in high school, her Spanish teacher, Paige Galt, Ed.D., thought Sabrina would make a good role model for younger students because she was involved in school, was a multi-sport athlete, and participated in community service organizations.She thought that would be a great platform to do pageants, especially since being an equestrian was unique, Sabrina says. She recommended that I go to her pageant coach, Kim Vaughn, in Atlanta. And the rest is history.Sabrina competed in teen pageants throughout college. Her senior year, she tried for Miss California USA. She didnt win the first time, but the second time, she was crowned with the title.Sabrina Lewis was the 2023-2024 Miss California. Photo courtesy Sabrina LewisMany little girls dream of becoming Miss USA or Miss America someday. But for Sabrina, while pursuing these titles, shes shared her own dreams of competing in Olympic equestrian events. For Miss America, my talent is Her Story, a monologue that I wrote myself, she says. I talk about being an equestrian and wanting to compete at the highest level, maybe trying out for the Olympic team in 2028. Its going to be in Los Angeles, California.For Miss America, Sabrinas talent was Her Story, a monologue she wrote herself about how you can be successful while still being unique. Photo courtesy Sabrina LewisSabrina has a unique opportunity in her role as Miss California. Choosing equestrian as a talent for national pageant competition is highly unusual. And Sabrina is only the third Black woman to receive the title of Miss California; the last Black woman to win was 25 years ago.A Place for Athletes & Animal LoversIm hoping to break barriers in a lot of different facets, she says. Im being authentic to myself, wearing my naturally curly hair, and not pretending to be someone Im not. Ive had people say, Why dont you just learn to dance or sing something for your talent? I have to politely say no. Thats not me. Im not a singer, Im not a dancer; Im an athlete. The thing that is most authentic and true to me is my passion for horses and how much I love animals. So thats what I want to bring to Miss America.A little girl told Sabrina once that she didnt think she could be Miss California because she didnt sing or dance and she wasnt a performer. But seeing Sabrina wear that crown opens doors for girls like her.Its nice to hold space with Her Story, saying you can be an athlete, you can be an animal lover, you can be unique, and you can still be successful, she says. Thats very important to me. No matter what your skin color, no matter what youre interested in, I think its important. Its hard to fathom accomplishing something if youve never seen someone else do it.Whats NextBeing both an equestrian and Miss California has intertwined in surprising ways, according to Sabrina. As Miss California, shes encouraged to connect with her community at the state and especially the local level. Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in Del Mar, Calif., hosted Sabrinas Miss America sendoff party, and named one of the races at the track the Miss California Invitational.Sabrina competed at Miss America in January 2024, and although she didnt win the title, she completed her reign as Miss California. Now, she hopes to compete at the professional level in equestrian competition, with Olympic-level dreams.Sabrina Lewis at the Miss America Pageant in January 2024. Photo courtesy Sabrina LewisIn January 2023, Sabrina placed second in her division at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Fla. For 2024, shes looking to get a horse sponsored and move up to a higher jumping division.I want to keep competing to the highest level and to the best of my ability, she says.Her mom, Sylvia Allen Lewis, says Sabrinas devotion to horses and pageants have shaped her character. She and Sabrinas dad, Richard, are proud of the path shes pursuing.I think the whole experience, from the very beginning, has taught her compassion and patience with herself and with people and with animals, says Sylvia. Shes intuitive with animals, and with the pageants, she just gives away her knowledge so freely. She has a sweet spirit, and a strong work ethic. Shes always willing to help people.Sabrina hopes to inspire others to pursue big dreams, like her parents did for her. Its hard to fathom accomplishing something if youve never seen someone else do it, she says. Photo by Kirstie Marie PhotographyWhen asked what guidance shes taken to heart over the years, Sabrina says the best advice came from her parents.They tell me to never let anyone tell me I cant do something, she says. Theyve always encouraged me to dream big and follow my dreams, and Im very grateful for that.If youre interested in supporting or learning more about Sabrinas journey, reach out via Instagram @bribrisweet.This article about Sabrina Lewis appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Sabrina Lewis and Her Crowning Achievements appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The Longines Global Champions Tour of Mexico City, presented by GNP Mexico Jumping, is set to electrify audiences from 27 to 30 March, bringing the world’s best show jumping talent to the iconic Campo Marte. As the exclusive Latin American leg of the tour, this highly anticipated event cements Mexico City as a premier destination in the global equestrian calendar.The opening press...

Advertisement featureWalsall-based saddle makers, GFS Saddles, has been producing quality saddles and accessories since 1981. Since the success of their Monarch and Transition ranges, which cater for a wide range of disciplines and for horses and riders of all levels, the company is excited to launch its new Premier range, which has been in development for the past three years.The range offers multiple options to accommodate rider preference, whether that be seat depth or flap length. It will also allow the rider to fine tune their leg position with an adjustable knee block and adjustable stirrup bar in the Dressage and Event models.The slim design panels are now flocked with a natural wool to create a close contact with the horse. The exchange girth system enables a secure fit and good connectivity between horse and rider.These saddles will be available from a 15.5in to a 18.5 inch seat and in three colours, including the new Bordeaux.The new GFS Premier jump saddleUnparalleled quality and supportWith the launch of our new Premier range, GFS Saddles continues to push the boundaries of comfort and performance, comments managing director Geoff Fieldhouse. Each saddle is thoughtfully crafted with both horse and rider in mind, offering unparalleled quality and support. Were excited to see how this new Premier range can enhance performance and comfort for horse and rider combinations to enable them to be at the top of their game.GFS Saddles has been hosting clinics for stockists to attend in order to familiarise themselves with this new competitively priced Premier range so that they can offer exceptional support and service to customers wishing to purchase one of these saddles.The Premier range launched in March 2025 and can be purchased through a GFS Approved Fitter. A list of fitters can be found here.The GFS Premier dressage saddleAbout GFS SaddlesWhen GFS started in March 1981, the guiding principles were to follow traditional values and craftsmanship and combine them with the latest technology and innovation.These core values, combined with their knowledge of the art of saddle making, have enabled them to build a worldwide reputation for top quality, affordable saddles for all riding disciplines.It has been a whole team effort to combine innovation and original core principles to bring NEW standards of comfort and fit to both horse and rider.GFS Premier event saddleFind out more about the GFS Saddles Premier range hereRelated contentHow to check the fit of your saddle *VIDEO*Essential guide to choosing the right saddle for you and your horseThese are the essential items of tack every rider needs to haveHow to make sure youre not buying a stolen saddleThe post GFS Saddles push the boundaries of comfort and performance with new premier range *Promotion* appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Details Origin Shetland ponies originated from Shetland Isles, thriving for over 2,000 years. Physical Traits Height: 28-42 inches Strength: Can pull twice their weight Coat: Various colors, thick double coats Temperament Intelligence and Personality: Friendly and bold Loyalty: Adaptable, affectionate companions Adventures of Cousin It Morning Routine: Grazing and getting ready for activities Playtime: Engages in races, carriage pulling, and jumping obstacles Evening Routine: Returns to stable for rest Health and Care Laminitis: Hoof inflammation if diet is not managed Metabolic Conditions: Require careful diet and monitoring Care: Regular vet check-ups, grooming, hoof care Conclusion Shetland ponies are cherished for their strength, intelligence, and versatility as pets or companions. Exploring the Adventures and Charm of Mini Shetland Ponies: A Day in the Life of Cousin ItWith their adorable appearance and endearing personalities, Shetland ponies have captured the hearts of many equine enthusiasts around the world. These miniature marvels are renowned for their hardiness, intelligence, and playful disposition, making them an excellent choice as pets or mounts for children. In this blog, we'll delve into the charming world of Shetland ponies, particularly focusing on the adventures of a "Mini Shetland Pony" named Cousin It.Introduction to Shetland PoniesShetland ponies originated from the Shetland Isles, located off Scotlands north-east coast, where they have thrived for over 2,000 years. Their history dates back to the Bronze Age, with archaeological findings showing that ponies were present on the islands during that time.Characteristics of Shetland PoniesPhysical Traits Height: Shetland ponies typically stand between 28 and 42 inches tall, making them an ideal mount for small children. Strength: Despite their size, these ponies are incredibly strong and can pull twice their weight, demonstrating their remarkable power and versatility. Coat: They come in a variety of colors, including bay, chestnut, gray, and pinto, but spotted patterns are rare. Their thick double coats help them survive the harsh winters on the Shetland Isles.Temperament Intelligence and Personality: Shetland ponies are known for their intelligence, friendliness, and bold personalities, which can sometimes make them cheeky and challenging to train. Loyalty: They are loyal companions and are often used as pets or working ponies due to their adaptability and affectionate nature.Adventures of Cousin ItLet's imagine Cousin It as a spirited Mini Shetland Pony with a coat colored in a vibrant pinto pattern. Cousin It loves going on adventures across the rolling hills of the countryside, exploring hidden paths and enjoying the company of friends.Morning RoutineCousin It starts the day by grazing in a lush green meadow, savoring the fresh air and dewy grass. After breakfast, Cousin It gets ready for the day's activities, whether that's a leisurely ride with a young rider or a fun-filled session of harness driving.Playtime and TrainingGiven their intelligence and playful nature, Shetland ponies like Cousin It enjoy engaging in various activities. They might participate in the Shetland Pony Grand National series, racing over small steeplechase jumps, or they could be training to pull a carriage, a task they excel at due to their strength and agility. Cousin It is particularly fond of jumping obstacles and running freely in an open field.Evening RoutineAs the sun sets, Cousin It returns to its cozy stable, eager for dinner and some well-deserved rest. The evening is spent socializing with other horses or simply relaxing, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the stables.Health and Care of Shetland PoniesWhile Shetland ponies are generally hardy and long-lived, they do face some health challenges. Key issues include: Laminitis: A common condition in ponies, particularly if their diet isn't managed properly, leading to hoof inflammation. Hyperlipidemia and PPID (Equine Cushings Disease): Metabolic conditions that require careful dietary management and veterinary monitoring.To ensure the health and happiness of a Shetland pony like Cousin It, providing regular veterinary check-ups, quality feed, and plenty of fresh water is essential. Additionally, regular grooming and hoof care are crucial for maintaining their overall well-being.ConclusionThe charm of Mini Shetland Ponies lies not just in their diminutive size or endearing looks but in their remarkable strength, intelligence, and versatility. Whether as a pet, a mount for children, or a companion animal, Shetland ponies like Cousin It bring joy and adventure to countless people around the world.For those considering bringing a Shetland pony into their life, understanding their needs and characteristics is key to creating a fulfilling relationship. With the right care and attention, these small but mighty companions can thrive and become cherished family members.Please find additional information and resources about Shetland ponies below, with links to authoritative sources for further reading: Horse & Hound: The Shetland Pony Mad Barn: Shetland Pony Breed Guide The Scots Magazine: Five Fascinating Facts Shetland PonyJodhpur CollectionHorse Riding Boot CollectionHorse Riding Gloves CollectionHorse Riding Socks CollectionHorse Treats And GiftsEveryday Horse Vitamins & SupplementsStable RugsTurnout RugsHorse Fly Protection```html```

Section Details Importance of a Child-Friendly Environment Safety and enjoyment, facilities should include pony rides, stable tours, educational workshops, experienced staff. Considering Livery Options in Clovelly Known for its donkeys and historical backdrop, excellent for family excursions and inspiring a passion for horses. Livery Yards Around Bideford Provides excellent care for horses; inquire for child-friendly activities despite lack of specific child services. Nearby Alternatives Combe Martin offers engaging activities, such as pony days and assisted rides for children over four. What to Look for in a Child-Friendly Livery Yard Safety measures including fencing and professional supervision Educational activities that entertain Accessibility to necessary facilities Community support for families and young riders Conclusion Consider local and nearby facilities; prioritize safety, educational value, and community for a wholesome environment. Valuable Resources Barefoot Friendly Livery Yards Stowford Riding Centre Further Recommendations Equip children with quality equestrian apparel, outfits, and accessories to enhance their experience. Finding the Perfect Child-Friendly Livery Yard: A Guide to Clovelly and Bideford When in pursuit of a child-friendly livery yard, safety, education, and enjoyment are paramount. Clovelly and Bideford, two scenic locales in Devon, offer an enchanting blend of nature and exceptional equestrian facilities. Lets explore how to find the perfect livery yard in this idyllic region. The Importance of a Child-Friendly Environment A child-friendly livery yard must cater to the safety and enjoyment of young riders. Facilities should include pony rides, stable tours, and educational workshops. Experienced staff should be present to guide and entertain children efficiently, while also being approachable for any queries from curious minds. Considering Livery Options in Clovelly While Clovelly might be more famed for its charming donkeys and historical backdrop, it serves as a marvelous site for family excursions and educational experiences. The unique environment of Clovelly could very well inspire a passion for horses among children. Livery Yards Around Bideford Bideford stands as a launchpad to several livery yards and equestrian services. A cozy 280-acre farm near Bideford provides excellent care for horses. Despite a lack of specific child-friendly activities, a direct inquiry can reveal more services tailored to families [5]. Nearby Alternatives Exploring nearby alternatives like Combe Martin reaps substantial benefits. Facilities like Stowford Farm Meadows offer engaging activities for children, such as pony days and assisted rides for those over four. While not within Clovelly or Bideford, these locations provide a structured equestrian experience. What to Look for in a Child-Friendly Livery Yard Safety: Necessary safety measures, including fencing and professional supervision, should be prioritized. Educational Value: Seek yards offering educational activities, such as horse care workshops, which not only educate but also entertain. Accessibility: Ensure ease of access to stables, arenas, and other facilities conducive to all skill levels. Community: The presence of a supportive community provides a welcoming atmosphere for families and young riders. Conclusion Finding the perfect child-friendly livery yard in Clovelly and Bideford involves thoughtful consideration of local and nearby facilities. While Clovelly's picturesque setting enriches family adventures, delve into surroundings like Combe Martin for structured and nurturing horse riding experiences. Ultimately, prioritize safety, educational value, and community spirit for a wholesome environment for your children and horses. Valuable Resources Barefoot Friendly Livery Yards: Explore unique track systems and natural approaches to horse care, appealing to those interested in holistic equine management. Stowford Riding Centre: A center offering a variety of horse riding experiences suitable for families, providing a delightful beginning point for horse engagement. Further Recommendations Ensuring your child is well-prepared for equestrian adventures can enhance their experience. Consider outfitting them with top-notch equestrian apparel like the Jodhpur Collection and durable footwear from the Horse Riding Boot Collection. Don't forget to include essentials like the Horse Riding Gloves Collection and comfortable Horse Riding Socks Collection. Lastly, treat yourself with our Horse Treats And Gifts or maintain your equine friends health with Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements. Your horse deserves the best care, and we have everything you need from Stable Rugs and Turnout Rugs to Horse Fly Protection accessories to enhance its wellbeing.```html```

A group of 20 Mustang weanlings recently shipped from a feedlot in Arizona and were delivered to homes in Michigan, Virginia, Arkansas, and Pennsylvania. The weanlings arrived with fevers, profuse nasal discharge, and lymphadenopathy. One weanling from the group has died since arriving. On March 26, two weanlings in Warren County, Virginia, tested positive on PCR for strangles and equine herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4). These two weanlings are being quarantined on a private farm.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.