The superb New Zealand horsewoman Caroline Powell jumped her way to a historic victory at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials in Gloucestershire on the occasion of the event’s 75th anniversary. Caroline, 51, and Chris and Michelle Mann’s Greenacres Special Cavalier crept steadily up the leaderboard from sixth place after cross-country with one of only four clear rounds. ‘I wasn’t ready for that,’ gasped Caroline ‘I thought third place would be great, but to win – wow. It’s awesome and it means so much – I’m not in my youth and just to get a horse to this stage is difficult enough, but to win – I can’t believe it.’ Ireland’s Lucy Latta made a dream Badminton debut to finish second on Leslie Crampton’s RCA Patron Saint and former farrier and rugby player Alex Bragg from Somerset climbed stratospherically from an original 60th place after dressage to finish third and best British rider on the Roe family’s mare Quindiva. ‘What a week,’ said Lucy. A one-horse rider with a full-time job as marketing manager for a drinks company, she is now the highest-placed Irish rider since Eddie Boylan won in 1965. ‘I made a total rider error at the third fence [which they had down], but my horse was phenomenal this week and I feel there’s loads more to come for him.’ Alex Bragg’s previous best result at Badminton was 36th. ‘This is a local event for me [he is based in Somerset], but I have had some bad luck here,’ he explained. ‘To be in the top ten was my dream, so I am speechless – for the first time ever. For me, Badminton and Burghley are jumping events and sometimes it can be anybody’s game.’ The top two after cross-country, Tim Price and William Fox-Pitt, both had nightmare show jumping rounds, dropping to eighth and 13th places respectively amid a clatter of poles – five for Tim, whose horse Vitali is a notoriously poor showjumper, and six for William on Grafennacht. It was not the career ending William, winner of 14 five-star events and a former number one, would have wished for. ‘At least I did it properly,’ he joked graciously. ‘I should have pulled the plug yesterday, but I have lived with a few moments in my career and it will all be fine tomorrow. I’m 55, I’m in one piece and I’ve been lucky.’ Emily King, whose mother Mary is a dual Badminton winner, achieved her first Badminton completion in style, finishing fourth on Valmy Biats, and Tom Jackson was fifth on the consistent Capels Hollow Drift. Jonelle Price, the first New Zealand woman to win Badminton, in 2018, was sixth on Grappa Nera, Tom Rowland had his best Badminton result in seventh place on Dreamliner, Pippa Funnell was masterful throughout on the inexperienced MCS Maverick to finish ninth and Bubby Upton, who only returned to the saddle in January after a serious injury, jumped clear on Cola to round off the top 10. Caroline Powell first came to Britain as a groom for triple Badminton winner Ian Stark. She won Burghley in 2010 on Lenamore and has won two team bronze medals for New Zealand, in 2010 and at the 2012 Olympic Games. Greenacres Special Cavalier is an Irish-bred, 11-year-old mare by Cavalier Royale, bred in Ireland by Michael Callery. Caroline first sat on her as a youngster. ‘You can have a good horse [Lenamore] and then you can disappear. “Cav” has had her tricky moments, but to be here, winning Badminton, is a dream come true.’

The Challenge Badminton Horse Trials Trophy ~ to the winning owner: Chris & Michelle Mann and rider Mars Equestrian Yeti Cool Box ~ to the winning rider: Caroline Powell Mars Equestrian and Spillers prize ~ £1,000 to the Groom of winner: Tristan Hudson Replica of the Trophy ~ to the top three riders and the winning owner: Chris & Michelle Mann, Caroline Powell, Lucy Latta, Alexander Bragg Mark Holliday Memorial Trophy ~ Groom of winner: Tristan Hudson Butler Challenge Bowl, with replica ~ for the highest placed British rider: Alexander Bragg Worshipful Company of Saddlers saddle ~ Rider with the best score who is under 25 on 1/1/25 and who has not previously won a Company saddle in the calendar year: Georgia Bartlett Silver Jubilee Plate ~ to the most successful rider, the horse to be owned by the rider alone, or in conjunction with immediate family: Lauren Innes for Global Fision M Laurence Rook Trophy ~ best British rider not previously completed Badminton: Emily King Glentrool Trophy ~ Horse & Rider who have made greatest improvement on their dressage placing: Wills Oakden & Arklow Puissance Frank Weldon Memorial Trophy ~ Rider of the youngest British owned and ridden horse in top 12: Alexander Bragg for Quindiva Cotswold Life Trophy ~ To the best British rider who is not entitled to wear the adult Union Jack Badge and whose permanent address is in the county of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire or Somerset: Alexander Bragg The William Miflin Memorial Trophy ~ To the rider of the horse with no cross-country jumping penalties and closest to optimum time: Lucy Latta and RCA Patron Saint Sport Horse Breeding of Great Britain ~ Owner of best horse sired by a SHB(GB) Graded Stallion or Premium Stallion, provided it is in the top 12: Leslie Crampton for RCA Patron Saint The British Horse Foundation £1000 ~ The Breeder of the highest placed British bred horse, provided it finished in the top 20: Richard Ames for RCA Patron Saint LeMieux rug ~ To the winner: Caroline Powell Farriers Prize ~ plaque to the owner and farrier of the best shod horse: 1st Sammi Birch Finduss PFB shod by Greig Elliott 2nd Monbeg Exclusive shod by Lyle Evans 3rd Valmy Biats shod by Nick O’Sullivan Stud Voucher £500 ~ owner of the highest placed British owned mare: Alexander Bragg and The Roe Family for Quindiva David Beaufort Memorial Trophy ~ to the person who has contributed to the running of the Horse Trials over many years: Harry Verney Treehouse Sporting Colours Grooms Award ~ Pippa Funnell’s grooms Emma Gibson and Lily Wilson (MCS Maverick) Embryo Transfer or OPU session ~ to the highest placed British bred or domiciled mare, courtesy of Tomlinson Equine: Greenacres Special Cavalier Breeder of the winner ~ Michael Callery Armada Dishes: William Fox-Pitt & Ros Canter

Andrew Nicholson has been presented with the most Armada dishes (given for completing Badminton five times) – he has seven and has completed the event 38 times. In 2017, after competing here for 33 years and breaking his neck in 2015, Andrew Nicholson finally bagged his Badminton title riding the 17-year-old Nereo. Sir Mark Todd has six Armada Dishes and this year William Fox-Pitt will be presented with his fifth for 25 completions. Last year’s champion, Ros Canter, will receive her first. Frank Weldon and Kilbarry were the first back-to-back winners (1955-56) before leading GB to Olympic eventing team gold in Stockholm. Sheila Willcox holds the record for winning three times on the trot, 1957-1959, twice on High and Mighty, and then Airs and Graces. Richard Walker remains the youngest ever winner at 18 years old in 1969, riding Pasha. Pippa Funnell is a three time winner and took the last long-format Badminton, in 2005 on Primmore’s Pride. William Fox-Pitt is the longest-standing Badminton competitor in 2024, having first competed here 35 years ago Chris Bartle, now the British team trainer, won in 1998 on Word Perfect II Nicolas Touzaint is the only Frenchman to win, in 2008 on Hildago de L’Ile. Michael Jung is the only German to win, in 2016 on his prolific gold medal winner La Biosthetique Sam FBW. He also became the second Rolex Grand Slam winner that year. Swiss rider Capt Hans Schwarzenbach won the third event back in 1951, riding Vae Victus. Jonelle Price first competed here 20 years ago, winning in 2018 on the little mare Classic Moet. Caroline Powell has 15 completions. Harry Meade has 12 completions. Tim Price has nine completions to date, but ahead of today’s showjumping, has yet to win. Four horses have completed seven times; Ballycotton (Andrew Harris and Sarah Longshaw), Comanche (James Robinson), Lenamore (Caroline Powell), and Over To You (Jeanette Brakewell). There were 22 competitors the first year Badminton hosted the first ever European Championship in 1953, won by Britain and Major Laurence Rook on Starlight XV. The late Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed her only win as an owner when son-in-law Capt Mark Phillips rode Columbus to victory. In 1994, Mark Todd won Badminton on Horton Point, a catch ride he had never sat on, leading from the front as the pathfinder.

Lucy Latta’s grandfather William Powell Harris rode at Badminton in 1971 and her cousin Robbie Power won the Grand National; she is a one-horse rider and works full time as a brand manager for canned drinks company White Claw. Tom Crisp is a retained firefighter and enjoys track days on his motorbike. David Doel runs the Lacock Dairy ice cream company in partnership with his father. Joseph Murphy has an identical twin brother and has four other brothers; he is a keen golfer. Kylie Roddy owns Aqua Equestrian equine therapy centre; she enjoys boxing. Emma Thomas plays the piano. Both Grace Taylor’s parents, Nigel and Ann, competed at Badminton and Burghley. Harry Mutch’s great uncle Eric Thompson was a regular competitor in the 1970s; Harry enjoys riding his motorbike. Gubby Leech, Tom Jackson and Jesse Campbell are keen golfers. Emily King completed the 2023 London Marathon with her boyfriend Sam Ecroyd. Daragh Byrne plays Gaelic football. Selina Milnes’s brother Greig Elliott is a farrier for Team GB and won the farrier prize at Badminton for shoeing Sammi Birch’s horse Finduss PFB. Lauren Innes is a full-time chartered accountant with a degree in biological sciences from Oxford and a Masters in Investment Banking. Gemma Stevens was proposed to during the press conference after winning Bicton 5* in 2021. Libby Seed is a full time account manager for Boston Scientific. Alex Bragg is a qualified, but not practising, farrier. Laura Collett schools racehorses. Harry Meade has has a degree in history of art. He proposed to Rosie during a Badminton course walk. Tom Rowland is a self-confessed eventing geek and can list every winner of Badminton. Wills Oakden is a keen pickleball player. His father James and aunt Frances Hay-Smith have both completed Badminton. Boyd Martin has started at all seven 5* in the world. Pippa Funnell first competed here in 1988. She has had published 22 books as part of Pippa’s Pony Tales, plus an autobiography and a training book. She is the only rider to have won the Rolex Grand Slam of Badminton, Burghley and Kentucky in traditional format. Sam Watson’s father John competed at Badminton in the 1970s; Sam is co-founder of EquiRatings and enjoys breeding and producing racehorses. Florian Ganneval is a full time farrier. Tiana Coudray was an international Irish Dancer up until age of 15; she finished eighth in the dancing world championships. Bubby Upton broke her back in a schooling accident last year and was told she might never walk again. Alice Casburn enjoys year-round beach swims and scuba diving. Rosie Bradley-Hole enjoys hunting and National Hunt racing (her brother, Harry Fry, is a trainer) as well as cross country skiing in Norway. Sarah Ennis is a keen sailor and diver and qualified to Dive Master level. William Fox-Pitt’s parents Oliver and Marietta competed at Badminton; he first rode here 35 years ago and has 24 completions to date. In 2015 he sustained a serious head injury and spent a week in an induced coma, but recovered in order to be picked for the 2016 Olympic Games. William has won the most 5* events, 14 so far. Arthur Marx works every morning in a stationary shop and is keen on racing. This year’s winner takes home £117,600

Vitamin Function Sources Imbalance Risks Vitamin A Maintains good vision, healthy skin, and coat; supports cell differentiation and regeneration Carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, alfalfa hay Deficiency: Vision problems, poor coat condition; Excess: Liver and kidney dysfunction Vitamin B Complex Converts food into energy, maintains healthy skin, coat, vision, hooves, and bones; supports muscle growth and the nervous system Oats, barley, wheat bran, molasses Deficiency: Poor performance, lethargy; Excess: Excitability Vitamin C Powerful antioxidant, protects cells from damage, essential for collagen synthesis Oranges, lemons, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, kale Deficiency is rare due to self-production; Excess: Generally non-toxic Vitamin D Crucial for absorption of calcium and phosphorus, regulates phosphate excretion Sunlight, fortified feed products Deficiency: Weakened bones; Excess: Calcification of soft tissues, organ failure Vitamin E Antioxidant, protects cells from oxidative damage, important for muscle function and stamina Fresh grass, high-quality supplements Deficiency: Muscle weakness, poor immune function; Excess: Rare but possible Trace Minerals Supports hoof growth, fertility, and overall body functioning; important for enzymatic reactions and metabolic processes Salt licks, mineral supplements, balanced diet of forages and grains Deficiency: Poor health and performance; Excess (e.g., selenium): Toxicity Essential Vitamins for Horses Ensuring that your horse receives the right vitamins is crucial for their overall health, performance, and well-being. Vitamins play a vital role in various bodily functions, from maintaining healthy skin and coat to supporting strong bones and a robust immune system. In this blog, we will explore the essential vitamins that horses need, their functions, sources, and the importance of proper supplementation. Vitamin A Function: Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, particularly in low light conditions, and for keeping the skin and coat healthy. It also plays a role in cell differentiation and regeneration, which is critical for growth and healing. Sources: Horses can obtain Vitamin A from carotene pigments found in green forage. Carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, spinach, and alfalfa hay are excellent sources of Vitamin A. Imbalance Risks: Deficiency in Vitamin A can lead to vision problems and poor coat condition. However, excess Vitamin A, usually from over-supplementation, can be toxic and cause issues such as liver and kidney dysfunction. Vitamin B Complex Function: The B vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy, maintaining healthy skin, coat, vision, hooves, and bones. They also support muscle growth and the nervous system. Sources: Oats, barley, wheat bran, and molasses are rich in various B vitamins. For example, oats are high in thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3), while barley provides pantothenic acid (B5) and wheat bran is rich in folic acid (B9). Imbalance Risks: A deficiency in B vitamins can lead to poor performance, lethargy, and even severe health issues. However, excess intake, particularly through injections, can cause excitability and other adverse effects. Vitamin C Function: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is also essential for the synthesis of collagen, which is vital for connective tissue health. Sources: Horses produce their own Vitamin C, but additional sources include fruits like oranges, lemons, and strawberries, as well as vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and kale. Imbalance Risks: While horses generally produce enough Vitamin C, supplementation may be necessary during periods of stress or poor diet. Toxicity from Vitamin C is rare as the body regulates its production. Vitamin D Function: Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for strong bones and teeth. It also helps regulate the excretion of phosphates in urine. Sources: Horses can synthesize Vitamin D through exposure to sunlight. It is also found in fortified feed products like hay cubes or pellets. Imbalance Risks: Both deficiency and excess of Vitamin D can cause serious health issues. Deficiency can lead to weakened bones, while excess can result in calcification of soft tissues and organ failure. Understanding the roles of these essential vitamins and ensuring your horse receives them in the right amounts is vital. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing any supplements to avoid potential toxicity and ensure the correct dosage. Vitamin E Function: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage. It is also important for muscle function and stamina. Horses engaging in intense physical activity benefit significantly from adequate Vitamin E levels to maintain peak performance and prevent muscle disorders. Sources: Fresh grass is a good source of Vitamin E, but its content decreases significantly during the hay-making process. Therefore, supplementation may be necessary, especially in winter when fresh grass is not available. Consider using high-quality supplements to ensure your horse receives adequate Vitamin E. Learn more about essential vitamins for horses. Imbalance Risks: Deficiency in Vitamin E can lead to muscle weakness and poor immune function. Toxicity is rare but can occur with excessive supplementation. Trace Minerals Function: Trace minerals such as zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and iodine are essential for various bodily functions, including hoof growth, fertility, and overall body functioning. These minerals support enzymatic reactions and metabolic processes that are crucial for maintaining your horse's health. Sources: These minerals can be provided through salt licks, mineral supplements, or a balanced diet that includes a variety of forages and grains. For more detailed information, check out 11 vitamins and minerals all horses need. Imbalance Risks: Deficiencies in trace minerals can lead to poor health and performance, while excess intake, particularly of selenium, can be toxic and cause severe health issues. Balanced Diet and Supplementation A balanced diet is fundamental for your horse's health. While high-quality forage can meet most of their vitamin needs, supplementation may be necessary for horses with higher demands, such as broodmares, young horses, and those under stress or recovering from illness. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific needs of your horse and to avoid potential vitamin imbalances. Practical Tips for Supplementing Your Horse 1. Assess Individual Needs: Every horse is different. Factors such as age, workload, and health status influence their nutritional requirements. Consult with your veterinarian to tailor a supplementation plan. 2. Quality Over Quantity: Choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands to ensure your horse receives the best nutrition. For a range of excellent options, visit Just Horse Riders. 3. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly monitor your horse’s health and adjust their diet and supplements as needed. Changes in coat condition, energy levels, and overall behaviour can be indicators of nutritional deficiencies or excesses. 4. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and recommendations on equine nutrition to provide the best care for your horse. Reliable sources include veterinary publications and equine nutrition experts. Vitamin and Mineral Testing Consider conducting regular vitamin and mineral tests to accurately assess your horse's nutritional status. Blood tests can help identify deficiencies or excesses, allowing for precise adjustments in their diet and supplementation. Testing is particularly important for horses with specific health issues or those in intense training programs. By understanding their exact needs, you can optimize their health and performance. Essential Vitamins for Horses Signs of Vitamin Deficiencies in Horses Recognizing the signs of vitamin deficiencies early can help you take prompt action and prevent long-term health issues. Some common symptoms include: Poor coat condition: Dull, dry, or brittle hair can indicate a lack of essential vitamins and minerals. Weakness and lethargy: If your horse seems unusually tired or lacks energy, they might be deficient in B vitamins or Vitamin E. Vision problems: Night blindness or general vision issues could be due to a Vitamin A deficiency. Slow growth and poor muscle development: Young horses that are not growing properly may lack essential nutrients like Vitamin D and B vitamins. Frequent infections: A compromised immune system, often due to low Vitamin C or E levels, can make horses more susceptible to infections. How to Supplement Vitamins Safely Supplementing your horse’s diet with vitamins requires a careful approach to avoid over-supplementation, which can be just as harmful as deficiencies. Here are some tips for safe supplementation: 1. Consult a Veterinarian: Before adding any supplements, consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific needs of your horse based on their diet, workload, and health status. 2. Follow Dosage Recommendations: Use supplements as directed by the manufacturer or your veterinarian to avoid excessive intake. 3. Choose Quality Products: Select supplements from reputable sources. For reliable options, explore the range at Just Horse Riders. 4. Monitor for Side Effects: Keep an eye on your horse for any adverse reactions after introducing new supplements and report any concerns to your vet immediately. The Role of Forage in Vitamin Intake Good quality forage is a fundamental component of your horse's diet and a primary source of many essential vitamins. Fresh pasture, for instance, is rich in Vitamins A and E. However, the vitamin content of hay decreases over time, which can necessitate supplementation, especially during winter months. For more information on balancing forage and supplements, visit Forage Plus. Common Myths About Equine Vitamins There are several myths surrounding the use of vitamins in horse diets. Let's debunk some of the most common ones: Myth: More vitamins are always better. Fact: Over-supplementation can lead to toxicity and health problems. Myth: All horses need the same supplements. Fact: Nutritional needs vary based on age, activity level, and health status. Myth: Vitamins can replace a balanced diet. Fact: Supplements are meant to complement, not replace, a well-rounded diet. Conclusion Providing your horse with a balanced diet that includes all essential vitamins and minerals is key to their health and performance. While good quality forage can meet most of their vitamin needs, supplementation may be necessary for horses with higher demands, such as broodmares, young horses, and those under stress or recovering from illness. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing any supplements to ensure the correct dosage and avoid potential toxicity. By understanding and meeting your horse's nutritional needs, you can help ensure they remain healthy, happy, and perform at their best. For high-quality supplements, check out Just Horse Riders. What vitamins are most important for horses? The most important vitamins for horses include Vitamin A, Vitamin B Complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E. Each of these vitamins plays a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions, such as vision, skin and coat health, immune function, bone strength, and muscle performance. Ensuring a balanced intake of these vitamins is essential for your horse's overall health and well-being. What are the six essential nutrients for horses? The six essential nutrients for horses are water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Water is vital for hydration and overall bodily functions. Carbohydrates provide energy, while proteins are crucial for muscle development and repair. Fats offer a concentrated energy source, and vitamins and minerals are necessary for various physiological processes and maintaining optimal health. Do horses need supplements? While a balanced diet of high-quality forage and grains can meet most of a horse's nutritional needs, supplements may be necessary in certain situations. Horses with higher demands, such as broodmares, young horses, and those under stress or recovering from illness, might benefit from additional supplementation. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific needs of your horse and to avoid potential toxicity from over-supplementation. Is vitamin E essential for horses? Yes, Vitamin E is essential for horses. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage and supporting muscle function and stamina. Horses engaging in intense physical activity, in particular, benefit significantly from adequate Vitamin E levels. Fresh grass is a good source of Vitamin E, but supplementation may be necessary, especially during the winter months when fresh grass is not available.

Seven first timers made it through to the final showjumping phase today. Best of the class of 2024, Lucy Latta (IRL, pictured) moved up one place from her cross-country finish to the runner-up spot despite RCA Patron Saint having a couple of rails down. Lucy climbed from 46th after dressage, also winning the William Miflin Memorial Trophy, awarded to the rider of the horse with no cross-country jumping penalties and closest to the optimum time. Grace Taylor (USA) also leapt up the leaderboard, from 31st after dressage to eventual 18th on Game Changer with two rails down. Will Rawlin limited Ballycoog Breaker Boy’s penalties to 12. With a final score of 70.2 he completed in 24th place. Jessica Phoenix (CAN) finished in 30th on Wabbit, up from 62nd after dressage despite a very expensive showjumping round, while one place behind was Cosby Green (USA) on Copper Beech who also sent some poles flying. Helen Bates riding Carpe Diem added 16 penalties to their two-phase score to complete on 144.1 in 37th place. Max Warbuton and Monbeg Exclusive experienced a similar fate, posting a final score of 139.1 for 36th.

Thirty-seven combinations will go forward to showjump after this morning’s final horse inspection at MARS Badminton Horse Trials, including all of the overnight top 10. Tom Jackson’s first ride, yesterday’s pathfinder Farndon, was withdrawn overnight as was Helen Martin’s Andreas. Unfortunately two horses did not go through; MGH Bingo Boy was withdrawn from the holding box and HD Bronze was not accepted. Emily Gibson, groom to Pippa Funnell, won the Treehouse Sporting Colours Groom’s Prize. She has chosen to share the prize with Pippa’s other groom, Lily Wilson. The first group of horses will showjump from 11.30am, with the top 20 jumping in the afternoon from 2.55pm. Her Majesty The Queen, who is Patron of British Equestrian, will join the celebrations today to watch the final show jumping phase before presenting prizes to the winners.

Triple Badminton winner Ian Stark, who was victorious on the occasion of Badminton’s 50th anniversary in 1999, looks back on his best memories of the event Ian’s cross-country round on the powerful grey Murphy Himself, second in 1991, is remembered as one of the all-time great performances: ‘Murphy could flip from being quite normal to being a nutcase; he was always on that spectrum and if he was human I think would have been a nutty professor. But I thoroughly enjoyed my ride on him in 1991. ‘We were a bit behind on the clock as we came to the Centre Walk double of hedges, which most horses took on four strides, so I put my leg on. Afterwards I realised: “Oh my god, he took it in two”, yet it felt normal because he had such scope and power. ‘I didn’t carry a whip on him on the cross-country, but for some reason I had one in the show jumping that time. I threw it away, but it was too late because he shot forward and caught a fence and it cost us the win.’ Sir Wattie was the great horse that won back-to-back Badmintons in 1986 and 1988 (1987 was cancelled) as well as championship medals galore and double Olympic silver in 1988: ‘In 1986 it poured with rain and we were last to go across country. It was so bad that as I was on Phase C [roads and tracks] in torrential rain, I could see loads of people driving away and thought: “Hang on – I haven’t been yet!” ‘My wife Jenny had hunted Wattie that winter and hacked him in 18in of snow and it must have been good preparation as he produced the only clear cross-country round within the time. ‘The one-two (pictured) in 1988 [Glenburnie was second] was such a special thing and I must admit that I am pleased no one has ever matched it. I was being interviewed by Hugh Thomas for the BBC down in the stables and realised I hadn’t walked the course, so Dick Stillwell [trainer] had to talk me through it. When Hugh heard, he said: “Typical Stark!”‘ ‘Wattie was a quarter Welsh Cob and when he got excited, his knees would come up in typical native action. When he retired I gave him to Henrietta Knight as a trainer’s hack; she had him for another 13 years and he was the yard mascot.’ In 1999, Ian won Badminton’s golden jubilee event on the Duchess of Devonshire’s New Zealand-bred Jaybee in the presence of Queen Elizabeth ll: ‘This was the most unexpected win. Not only was the horse technically an eight-year-old in New Zealand terms, but we were drawn number one to go. ‘The weather was absolutely terrible; myself and Mark Todd, who was second to go on another NZ thoroughbred, Word For Word, both incurred 25 time penalties [there was a new scoring system that year with one penalty per second] and we both thought we had better chances on our second horses. In the end, neither of us completed on our second horses and we ended up first and second. ‘The then Duke of Beaufort, David Somerset, brought the Queen to the stables and said: “Her Majesty would like to speak to you.” She asked me what I thought of the course and, because it was twisty, I said it would suit a cross between a show jumper and a polo pony. She asked: “Does your horse fit in?” ‘She was just lovely. What was special was that when I first rode at Badminton in 1984, that was her last visit until she returned in 1999.’ Ian, who became a course-designer, of international events such as Chatsworth, Bramham and Maryland, is still competing on the Duchess of Devonshire’s advanced horse Chatsworth Diamond and his own new five-year-old, a grey Connemara type that closely resembles Stanwick Ghost, the horse on whom he twice led the cross-country at Badminton.

Mineral Importance Sources Calcium (Ca) Essential for bone formation and muscle function Forage, hay, supplements Phosphorus (P) Works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth Grains, supplements Magnesium (Mg) Supports muscle and nerve function Forage, supplements Potassium (K) Maintains fluid balance and muscle contractions Forage, supplements Sodium (Na) and Chloride (Cl) Crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function Salt, supplements Iron (Fe) Vital for oxygen transport in the blood Forage, grains Zinc (Zn) Important for immune function and skin health Forage, supplements Copper (Cu) Necessary for connective tissue formation and iron metabolism Forage, supplements Selenium (Se) Acts as an antioxidant and supports immune function Forage, supplements Iodine (I) Essential for thyroid function Supplements Manganese (Mn) Involved in bone formation and energy metabolism Forage, supplements Tip Details Introduce New Supplements Gradually Horses are sensitive to dietary changes. Introduce new supplements over one to two weeks to improve acceptance and reduce the risk of digestive upset. Follow Product Directions Adhere to the manufacturer's feeding directions and monitor changes in your horse's condition. Over-supplementation can be harmful. Accurately Assess Your Horse's Body Weight and Workload Ensure you feed the correct amount based on your horse's weight and activity level. Type of Horse Special Considerations Performance Horses Require higher levels of minerals due to increased physical activity. Breeding Mares Need additional minerals to support fetal development and milk production. Growing Foals Require a balanced mineral intake to support rapid growth and development. Senior Horses May have different mineral requirements due to age-related changes in metabolism and nutrient absorption. Minerals for Horses: Ensuring Optimal Health and Performance Minerals play a crucial role in maintaining the health and performance of horses. These essential nutrients are involved in various physiological processes, including bone formation, muscle function, and overall metabolic health. In this blog, we will explore the importance of minerals in equine diets, common deficiencies, and how to choose the best mineral supplements for your horse. The Importance of Minerals in Equine Nutrition Minerals are divided into two categories: macrominerals and trace minerals (microminerals). Macrominerals are required in larger amounts and include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, sodium, and chloride. Trace minerals, needed in smaller quantities, include iron, zinc, copper, selenium, iodine, and manganese. Macrominerals Calcium (Ca): Essential for bone formation and muscle function. Phosphorus (P): Works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. Magnesium (Mg): Supports muscle and nerve function. Potassium (K): Maintains fluid balance and muscle contractions. Sodium (Na) and Chloride (Cl): Crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. Trace Minerals Iron (Fe): Vital for oxygen transport in the blood. Zinc (Zn): Important for immune function and skin health. Copper (Cu): Necessary for connective tissue formation and iron metabolism. Selenium (Se): Acts as an antioxidant and supports immune function. Iodine (I): Essential for thyroid function. Manganese (Mn): Involved in bone formation and energy metabolism. Common Mineral Deficiencies in Horses Despite the availability of various feeds and forages, many horses still suffer from mineral deficiencies. A 2021 review of over 6,500 equine diets found that the most common deficiencies were sodium (70.9% of horses under requirement), vitamin E (57%), selenium (49.3%), zinc (43.1%), copper (31.9%), and manganese (32.4%). This shows that even with the best intentions, our horses might still be missing out on crucial nutrients. Choosing the Right Mineral Supplement Selecting the right mineral supplement for your horse can be challenging. Here are some key considerations: Analyze Your Horse's Diet The best way to determine which minerals your horse needs is to analyse their diet. A hay analysis can reveal which nutrients are lacking in their forage. Even without a hay analysis, a nutritionist can estimate deficiencies based on geographic location and basic facts about your horse. Consider the Form of Minerals Mineral supplements come in various forms, including loose minerals, blocks, and pelleted supplements. Loose minerals are often better absorbed than blocks, which were originally designed for cattle and may not be as effective for horses. Organic vs. Inorganic Minerals Organic minerals, also known as chelated minerals, are generally better absorbed and utilized by the horse's body compared to inorganic minerals. Research shows that organic minerals improve bioavailability and have better outcomes in feeding trials. Avoid Added Iron Most horses get enough iron from their diet, and excess iron can have negative health consequences. Avoid supplements with added iron unless specifically recommended by a veterinarian. Recommended Mineral Supplements There are several high-quality mineral supplements available for horses. Two of the most recommended are: Omneity by Mad Barn Omneity is a comprehensive vitamin and mineral supplement that provides a full profile of nutrients required for optimal health. It includes organic trace minerals, digestive enzymes, active yeast cultures, and complete B-vitamin fortification, including 20 mg of biotin to support hoof health. Everyday Vitamin & Mineral by Equine America This supplement provides over 25 essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, along with probiotics and prebiotics to support digestive health. It is ideal for horses on forage-based diets or low concentrate feed intakes. Tips for Feeding Mineral Supplements Feeding mineral supplements to your horse requires careful consideration. Here are some tips to ensure your horse gets the best out of their mineral intake: Introduce New Supplements Gradually Horses are sensitive to dietary changes. Introduce new supplements over one to two weeks to improve acceptance and reduce the risk of digestive upset. Slow introduction helps your horse's system adjust without causing stress or discomfort. Follow Product Directions Adhere to the manufacturer's feeding directions and monitor changes in your horse's condition. Over-supplementation can be just as harmful as deficiencies. For example, excess selenium can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms like hair loss and hoof damage . Accurately Assess Your Horse's Body Weight and Workload Ensure you feed the correct amount based on your horse's weight and activity level. Performance horses and those with higher workloads may require more minerals compared to leisure horses. Balancing the Diet Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for your horse's health. Here are some tips to help you achieve this: Importance of a Balanced Diet A balanced diet ensures that your horse receives all the necessary nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, proteins, and fats. Imbalances can lead to health issues such as weak bones, poor coat condition, and reduced performance. Consulting with a Veterinarian or Equine Nutritionist Always consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to tailor a feeding program that meets your horse's specific needs. They can provide insights based on your horse's health status, age, breed, and activity level. Natural Sources of Minerals Incorporating natural sources of minerals in your horse's diet can be beneficial. Here are some ways to do that: Forage and Hay Forage and hay are primary sources of minerals for horses. However, the mineral content can vary based on the soil quality and forage type. Conducting a forage analysis can help determine the mineral content of your hay. Grains and Concentrates Grains and concentrates can also contribute to your horse's mineral intake. However, it's important to balance these with forage to prevent issues like colic and laminitis. Pasture Grazing Pasture grazing allows horses to obtain minerals naturally. Ensure your pasture is well-maintained and free of toxic plants. Rotational grazing can help preserve the quality of your pasture. Special Considerations for Different Types of Horses Different types of horses have varying mineral requirements. Here are some considerations for specific groups: Performance Horses Performance horses often require higher levels of minerals due to their increased physical activity. Supplements tailored for performance horses can help meet their specific needs. Breeding Mares Breeding mares need additional minerals to support fetal development and milk production. Calcium and phosphorus are particularly important during pregnancy and lactation. Growing Foals Growing foals require a balanced mineral intake to support rapid growth and development. Ensuring adequate calcium and phosphorus intake is crucial for strong bones. Senior Horses Senior horses may have different mineral requirements due to age-related changes in metabolism and nutrient absorption. Supplements designed for senior horses can help address these needs. Common Myths about Mineral Supplements There are many misconceptions about mineral supplements for horses. Let's debunk some of the most common myths: Myth 1: All Horses Need the Same Supplements Each horse is unique, with different dietary needs based on their age, workload, and health status. Consulting a veterinarian or equine nutritionist ensures your horse gets the specific minerals they need. Myth 2: More is Always Better Over-supplementing can be as harmful as deficiencies. Excessive intake of minerals like selenium and iron can lead to toxicity and health issues. Balance and moderation are key. Myth 3: Supplements Can Replace a Balanced Diet Supplements are designed to complement a balanced diet, not replace it. The foundation of your horse's nutrition should be high-quality forage and feed, with supplements filling in the gaps. Conclusion Ensuring your horse receives the right balance of minerals is essential for their health and performance. By understanding the importance of minerals, recognizing common deficiencies, and choosing the right supplements, you can help your horse thrive. Always consult with an equine nutritionist or veterinarian to tailor a feeding program that meets your horse's specific needs. For more detailed information on equine mineral supplements, visit Mad Barn and Equine America. By following these guidelines and providing your horse with the necessary minerals, you can ensure they maintain optimal health and performance. Minerals for Horses: Ensuring Optimal Health and Performance Does my horse need mineral supplements? Mineral supplements are often necessary to ensure your horse receives a balanced diet. Even with high-quality forage and feed, some minerals may still be deficient. Factors like soil quality, forage type, and your horse's specific needs play a role in determining if supplements are required. Always consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to assess your horse's diet and decide if mineral supplements are needed. What are the symptoms of mineral deficiency in horses? Symptoms of mineral deficiency in horses can vary but commonly include poor coat condition, weight loss, weak bones, muscle tremors, and decreased performance. Behavioural changes such as irritability or lethargy may also occur. Severe deficiencies can lead to more critical health issues, making it essential to address any signs promptly. What are the two most important minerals for horses? The two most important minerals for horses are calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are vital for bone health and metabolic functions. Calcium is crucial for muscle function and nerve signalling, while phosphorus works with calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth. The balance between these two minerals is essential for optimal health. How to feed loose minerals to horses? Feeding loose minerals to horses can be done by mixing them with the horse's regular feed or providing them free-choice in a separate feeder. Ensure the minerals are kept dry and clean to maintain their palatability and effectiveness. Introducing them gradually and monitoring your horse's intake helps prevent overconsumption and ensures they are getting the right amount.