William Funnell has announced that he will attempt to retain his Al Shiraaa Derby title with Dublon next month and extend his record for most wins in the class.The defending champion became the first rider to win the class five times last year and will be hoping he can extend that record when the Derby takes place on Sunday 22 June.Williams first victory in the Derby came in 2006 aboard Mondriaan with whom he went on to lift the trophy in 2008 and 2009. His next win, which came courtesy ofthe homebred Billy Buckingham in 2018, drew him level with Harvey Smith, John and Michael Whitaker and Eddie Macken, all of whom have won the iconic class four times.Last year, he partnered with Dublon to come out on top in a three-way jump-off with William Whitaker on Flamboyant and Carlos Riba riding Juan Vant Arkelhof to become the only rider to triumph in the class on five occasions.Its lovely being out on my own and winning it five times, but having won four times was still a dream, to be honest. It would be nice to just to get one more this year to make it really difficult for everyone, said William.Dublon in good formDublon did his first show in Abu Dhabi in April, and Im going to try the Hamburg Derby with him so Im currently getting him fit and training for that. Then hell have a bit of a break, before hopefully having him on top form for Hickstead again.Theres pressure every year in some way, I know Im going into the Derby with a horse capable of winning it, and thats when you get more nervous about making a mistake as a rider, because you dont want to let your horse down. In any Derby, you still need a little bit of luck on your side.As well as the Hickstead Derby, The Al Shiraaa Hickstead Derby Meeting will also feature the Brilliance Horse Auction Speed Derby and the Agria Derby Trial as well as numerous showing and carriage driving classes.The show takes place at Hickstead Showground in West Sussex from Thursday 19 Sunday 22 June.Image Boots and Hooves Photography.Related contentGlobal Champions announces ITV as new broadcast partnerHow to tell if a horse is happyPetition set up with the aim of updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to better protect horsesPublic attitudes towards horse sport on the right track but there is still more to doLearn to read your horses body language with this expert adviceThe post Funnell in bid for historic sixth Derby win appeared first on Your Horse.

Section Key Points Introduction Properly fitted saddles are crucial for horse and rider; trusting instincts for saddle fitting is important. Prevalence of Poor Saddle Fit Significant number of saddles are incorrectly fitted; 78% pose potential risks to horse performance. Disparity in Perception vs. Reality 90% of saddles sub-optimally fitted; 95% of owners believed their saddles were perfect. Impacts of Poor Saddle Fit Saddle issues can cause pain, lameness, and poor performance; associated with back pain and gait abnormalities. Trusting Your Instincts Horses communicate discomfort; regular checks and supplements can support during saddle transitions. Regular Checks Essential for avoiding poorly fitted saddles; ensure adequate clearance around horse's withers. Seeking Expert Advice Professional evaluations are crucial; consider dynamic assessments for real-world fit. Corrective Measures Engage professional saddle fitters for assessments and adjustments; consider new saddles if necessary. Final Equine Thought Foster a partnership with your horse by blending instincts with professional advice. Conclusion A well-fitted saddle enhances horse-rider harmony; regular checks and expert advice are crucial. When a Saddle Fitting Goes Wrong: The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts with Equestrian Gear Equipping your horse with the right gear is essential, much like choosing the right pair of shoes for a marathon. Without it, discomfort, poor performance, and potential health issues arise. Properly fitted saddles are central to both the rider's enjoyment and the horse's wellbeing. However, trusting your instincts when it comes to equestrian gear, particularly saddle fitting, is paramount. Let's explore why. The Prevalence of Poor Saddle Fit Believe it or not, studies reveal a significant number of saddles aren't fitted correctly. In a study of 193 saddles, 78% posed potential risks to horse performance. Common issues included overly tight tree points, low pommels, and uneven saddle contact. An astonishing 67% resulted from tree points being too tight, while 21% had a pommel sitting too low on the horse's withers [source]. The Disparity in Perception vs. Reality A study in Switzerland found 90% of the 196 saddles examined were sub-optimally fitted, even though 95% of owners believed their saddles were perfect [source]. This gap illustrates the necessity for professional evaluation. The Impacts of Poor Saddle Fit Saddle issues can unleash severe consequences on equine health, triggering pain or lameness and dwindling performance. In fact, saddles with incorrect fit correlate with hindlimb lameness and gait abnormalities [source]. Back pain in horses, hindering their overall well-being, is another grievous outcome [source]. Trusting Your Instincts and Listening to Your Horse Your horse is quite the conversationalistmaybe not verbally, but behaviorally. Discomfort or mounting resistance can be a cry for help, suggesting a misfit or other issues. Providing your horse with the right Equestrian Supplements may also support their overall health amid saddle transitions. Regular Checks: The Need for Continuous Assessment Regular checks safeguard against poorly fitted saddles. You don't have to own a tech-degree to perform these! Ensuring enough clearance between the pommel and your horse's withers can be an effective preventive measure [source]. The Professional Touch: Seeking Expert Advice Advocating for specialist involvement can make all the difference on your saddle fitting journey. From static to dynamic assessmentwhere saddle fit is evaluated during movementprofessional input is invaluable [source]. Dynamic Saddle Fit Assessment Dynamic assessment often reveals fit issues invisible during stillness. By viewing both horse and saddle in motion, you're ensuring a perfect symbiosis for you and your horse in real-world riding conditions [source]. Corrective Measures and Actions If saddling issues persist, take decisive action to protect your horse's welfare. From professional consultation to necessary adjustments or alterations, a tailored approach may warrant replacing your saddle altogether. Exploring Corrective Steps Start by engaging a qualified saddle fitter. Their assessment and advice can influence modifications and alterations necessary to optimize fit. Wholesale changes may be done to guarantee harmony between horse and saddle [source]. In unsalvageable cases, embrace a new saddle crafted with your horse's needs in mind. For instances when you're seeking the perfect fit, our various collections including the Jodhpur Collection, Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements, and our curated Horse Treats And Gifts can be useful resources. Final Equine Thought Ultimately, your aim is to foster a partnership with your horse, not just to secure a gear. By blending instinctive understanding with professional advice, you can avoid discomfort and enhance performance, all while nurturing a more enjoyable riding experience. Conclusion A well-fitted saddle is not merely gearit's a bridge to harmony between horse and rider. Listening to your instincts, seeking expert advice, and committing to regular checks create a safer and more joyful journey for all involved. Explore Just Horse Riders for more resources, and let your equestrian experience be both gratifying and successful.```html```

Section Details Tickets Plan Ahead: Access the full program online for scheduling sessions. Group Discounts: Up to 25% off for larger groups with flexible reservation payments. Book Early: Secure preferred seating and best prices with early booking. Shopping Village Diverse Offerings: Products range from tack to riding apparel and gifts. Exclusive Deals: Discounts on new products during the show. Plan Your Visit: Schedule ample time to explore and blend shopping with live displays. Parking and Transportation Public Transport: Easily accessible via Elizabeth Line, DLR, buses, and riverboats. Parking Facilities: Onsite parking available with advance booking recommended. Travel Tips: Public transport advised to ease traffic; carpooling suggested for groups. Additional Tips Hospitality Options: VIP and casual packages available for enhanced experience. Stay Updated: Sign up for the newsletter for news and special offers. Live Streaming: Events can be streamed live for those unable to attend. Maximizing Your Experience at the London International Horse Show: Tips for Tickets, Shopping, and Parking The London International Horse Show is a premier equestrian event bringing together horse enthusiasts from around the globe. Scheduled for December 18-22, 2025, at ExCeL London, the event boasts world-class competitions, entertainment, and unique shopping opportunities. Whether you're attending for the FEI World Cup qualifiers or simply to enjoy the festive atmosphere, our comprehensive guide ensures you get the most out of your visit. Getting Your Tickets Securing tickets early for the London International Horse Show is crucial. With options better suited to personal interests and group sizes, here are tips to consider when purchasing your tickets. Plan Ahead The full programme for 2025 is available online, giving access to the detailed schedule that includes morning, afternoon, and evening sessions. Don't miss top competitions such as the CSI5* Champagne Taittinger Speed Stakes. Group Discounts Attending with a sizable group? Benefit from group rates offering up to 25% off on selected performances. Reservations require no immediate payment, and flexibility is given with payment due by September 30, 2025. Book Early Given the popularity of the show, early booking is recommended. This assures your preferred seating and locks in the best prices. Plan ahead to efficiently coordinate travel and accommodations. Exploring the Shopping Village The shopping village at the London International Horse Show is an equestrian's dream, featuring more than 200 exhibitors offering exclusive products. Diverse Offerings From tack to riding apparel and equestrian lifestyle gifts, theres something for everybody. Even if you're an enthusiastic non-rider, the gourmet food selections are worth sampling. Exclusive Deals Exhibitors often launch new products with exclusive discounts available only during the show. It's a golden opportunity to update your collection with high-quality items at great prices. Plan Your Visit Allocate ample time within your schedule to explore the shopping area, particularly for the show-only items. An efficient way is to blend shopping time with some of the exciting live equestrian displays. Parking and Getting There When planning transportation to ExCeL London, visitors have several options, thanks to its well-connected location. By Public Transport The venue is served by the Elizabeth Line. From Bond Street, it takes approximately 18 minutes. Alternatives like the DLR, buses, and riverboats offer convenient travel options. Parking Facilities Consider onsite parking by booking in advance. Given space limitations during evening performances, early arrangements ensure smooth access, helping avoid unnecessary stress. Travel Tips Public transportation is often recommended to minimize traffic hassles. Group attendees might consider carpooling, contributing to reduced environmental impact. Additional Tips for a Memorable Visit Hospitality Options From VIP hospitality to casual dining, a range of packages enhances your show experience. Booking hospitality in advance allows for exclusivity and comfort. Stay Updated Sign up for the newsletter to receive the latest news, programme updates, and special offers to make the most of this annual event. Live Streaming Some events are available via live streaming for those unable to attend in person, ensuring the excitement extends beyond the arena. For equestrian enthusiasts worldwide, the London International Horse Show promises an unforgettable experience. From exciting competitions to unique shopping, with proper planning, this event remains a highlight of the equestrian calendar. ```html```

Key Points Details Health Benefits Reduces grass intake by 30-83%, managing obesity, EMS, Cushing's, and laminitis. Weight Management 89% of users use grazing muzzles primarily for weight management. Comfort and Acceptance Comfort is key: 27% report a "very well" fit, 43% a "well" fit, though 12% of horses do not adapt. Ensuring Comfort Proper fit, materials, and gradual introduction are crucial for comfort. Durability Made from durable materials like plastic or nylon; requires regular maintenance. Safety Considerations Safe overall, but potential risks include getting caught; use breakaway halters. Choosing the Perfect Muzzle Consider size, fit, material, durability, ventilation, and adjustability. Conclusion Grazing muzzles provide health benefits while maintaining comfort and safety. Finding the Perfect Grazing Muzzle: Comfort, Durability, and Health Benefits Explored Horse owners face numerous challenges when it comes to managing the weight and health of their equine friends. Among the myriad of tools available, the grazing muzzle is a remarkable solution that has gained popularity in equine circles. These muzzles are not just accessories; they are essential in controlling grass intake, ultimately helping prevent conditions like obesity, laminitis, and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). In this detailed guide, we'll dive into the aspects of comfort, durability, and health benefits that make grazing muzzles indispensable. Health Benefits of Grazing Muzzles Reducing Grass Intake Grazing muzzles have proven highly effective, reducing a horse's grass intake by an impressive 30-83%. By limiting this intake, horse owners can mitigate the risks of obesity and closely managed health conditions like EMS, Cushing's, and laminitis. Controlling calorie and sugar intake is vital for maintaining equine health without reducing the horse's social opportunities and exercise, which are critical to their overall well-being. Common Health Conditions Managed by Grazing Muzzles Weight Management: This is the primary benefit cited by 89% of grazing muzzle utilizers according to users' surveys. Laminitis and EMS: Linked directly to excessive sugar intake, these conditions see significant management improvements with muzzle use. Cushing's Disease: Controlling sugar consumption through muzzle use aids in managing this condition effectively. Comfort and Acceptance The efficacy of grazing muzzles equals their level of comfort. Ensuring a good fit can translate into higher acceptance, with studies reflecting 27% of users noting a "very well" fit and 43% noting a "well" fit. However, 12% of horses never adapt to muzzles, highlighting the importance of comfort. Ensuring Comfort Proper Fit: The muzzle should not be too tight. Adequate fit allows easy breathing and movement. Materials and Modifications: Owners sometimes use padding or electrical tape for extra comfort. Gradual Introduction: Acclimate your horse to the muzzle by starting with brief usages and gradually extending the time worn. Durability and Safety Considerations Durability Typically crafted from durable materials like plastic or nylon, grazing muzzles are built to endure outdoor conditions. Regular maintenance and cleaning will ensure longevity and continued effectiveness. Safety Risks While inherently safe, potential hazards include the muzzle becoming caught on objects. Mitigating risks involves removing hazards from paddocks and opting for breakaway halters. Despite limitations on some social behaviors, muzzles still permit critical herd interaction. Choosing the Perfect Grazing Muzzle To choose the best-fitting grazing muzzle, evaluate the following criteria: Size and Fit: Tailor the muzzle to your horse's specific size and breed for comfort and efficacy. Material and Durability: Opt for long-lasting materials suitable for routine use and cleaning. Ventilation and Comfort: Muzzles with efficient ventilation prevent discomfort from overheating. Adjustability: Flexibility in design allows for a better fit for a range of horse sizes. Conclusion In the realm of equine care, grazing muzzles stand out as a vital tool. They assert their value by imparting health benefits without compromising the comfort and safety of your horse. When thoughtfully chosen and correctly used, muzzles become indispensable in managing health conditions like weight, laminitis, and more. Understand your options, consider the integration of related horse riding equipment such as jodhpur collection, riding boots, and riding socks, and explore the consistent benefits a well-fitted and durable grazing muzzle offers.```html```

A collaboration between national homelessness charity Alabar and Power of Polo, a UK charity whose mission is to develop programmes utilising the sport of polo, gave eight participants the opportunity to partake in a residential course at Offchurch Bury Polo Club last month.The four-day course was designed to deliver a range of experiences, foster resilience and develop teamwork skills in the participants, who are aged between 18 and 24 and have all experienced homelessness. Most of the participants had minimal riding experience with several of them having never been near a horse before.During the week they were taught to groom, muck out and tack up as well as learning the rules of polo and taking part in a mini tournament. There was also a veterinary talk by Avon Vale Equines Carys Morgan, a visit from the Knights of Middle England and the opportunity to attend a first aid course with a trainee paramedic.A positive impactComing out here to be able to slow down and breathe and spend time with animals has helped me massively. Horses are just amazing, said one of the course participants.Being able to meet new people has also helped my anxiety; if you wake up in the morning and youre feeling low you literally come out here and by the end of the day, youre feeling incredible.There is something about these animals that calms the nervous system. This is something that I think everyone should do, or at least everyone should have the opportunity to do it at least once in their life, because it makes such a positive impact and at the end of it, you feel free.Power of Polos next course will take place at Cool Hooves Polo atThe Royal County of Berkshire Polo Clubin partnership with South Central Youth, a Lambeth-based charitydedicated to improving the life chances of young people in some of Londons most underserved communities, from Monday 26 Friday 30 May.Image Power of Polo.Related contentBentley Motors announced as official partner of the British Open Polo ChampionshipsPark where Seabiscuit won his last race is confirmed as equestrian venue for 2028 OlympicsBurghley reveals 2025 charityTom March to embark on 100-hour cycling and climbing challenge in memory of sisterThe post Polo ponies help young homeless people to learn new skills and reduce anxiety appeared first on Your Horse.