Ian Cassells leads the way from an Irish perspective at the FEI WBFSH Eventing World Breeding Championships for Young Horses at Le Lion DAngers.The championships kicked off on day 1 in France with dressage for 7-year-olds and three Irish combinations took to the arena Cassells, Sian Coleman and Alyssa ONeill.Cassells and Noa W lie in 19th place overnight after their test yielded a total of 32.8 penalties, the pair showing why they finished as runners-up in the DAFM Eventing Studbook Series League.Just over four penalties behind overnight leader Lara De Liedekerke-Meier with Helios, Cassells will be very hopeful of eating into that deficit over the weekend with his KWPN gelding. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Horse Sport Ireland (@horsesportireland)Coleman and Cairnview Crystal Springs (ISH), the mare bred and owned by Co. Longfords Geraldine Quinn, totalled 38.4 penalties and will also be looking forward to Saturdays cross country as they bid to cut the gap between themselves and the leaders.Similer sentiments apply for ONeill and Irish Sport Horse DS Candescent, bred in Co. Mayo by Liam Lynskey, had a long wait yesterday to compete as the penultimate combination down the centre line, and they finished with 39.1 penalties.Tomorrow, the rest of the Irish will compete in Le Lion as the remainder of the 7-year-olds are tested in dressage, while the 6-year-old competition begins. First of the Irish into the arena will be Harry Horgan and HHE Fernhill McCoy (ISH) at 9.58am Irish time.BREEDING:Cairnview Crystal Springs (ISH). Mare by Tolan R (KWPN) out of Cairnview Clover Crystal (ISH)(TIH), by Clover Hill (ID). Bred and owned by Geraldine Quinn, Co. Longford and ridden by Sian Coleman (IRL).DS Candescent (ISH). Gelding by Sligo Candy Boy (ISH) out of Largan Lady Cruise (ISH), by Cruising For Chics (ISH). Bred by Liam Lynskey, Co. Mayo, owned by Deborah McCann and Alyssa ONeill and ridden by Alyssa ONeill (IRL).Noa W (KWPN). Gelding by Baltic VDL (KWPN) out of Gucretia (KWPN), by Indoctro (HOLST). Bred by G. Wierts, Netherlands, owned by Nuala McDonald and ridden by Ian Cassells (IRL).The post Cassells to the fore as Irish assault on World Championships in Le Lion begins appeared first on .

On Oct. 10, a 5-year-old Standardbred mare in Oceana County, Michigan, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The unvaccinated horse developed clinical signs on Sept. 23, including hindlimb ataxia, anxiety, and muscle fasciculations. She is currently recovering.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.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

On Oct. 14, a 20-year-old draft horse mare in Queen Annes County, Maryland, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The horse was last vaccinated two years ago. She is currently still alive.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.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

Ocala, FL The fifth annual Ocala Food & Wine Festival returns to World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) from November 7 to 9, 2025, with an exciting announcement: The Food Network star Duff Goldman will headline this years festivities, offering the opportunity to experience his creativity and artistry at Ocalas premier culinary event. Known for his imaginative approach to food andSource

FEI level 4 course designer and technical delegate Alan Wade had been named as the jumping course designer for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.Alan was unanimously appointed to the role by the FEI Board at its monthly teleconference on Friday 10 October.The Irishman was the assistant course designer at the London 2012 Olympic Games alongside Bob Ellis and designed the courses at the2017 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final in Omaha and the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon.Honoured and gratefulI am honoured and grateful to accept the role of Jumping Course Designer for the Olympic Games LA28, said Alan.I would like to thank the FEI Board and Olympic Games LA28 Organising Committee for entrusting me with the important role of creating the courses and fence designs.I look forward to designing courses that produce good competition and present our sport in the best way possible on the world stage that is the Olympic Games.Showjumping pedigreeAlan, who is the son of legendary Irish showjumper Tommy Wade, designed his first tracks at local gymkhanas in County Tipperary when he was just 12 years old. His professional career began at the Dublin Horse Show and he has designed courses inRotterdam, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, Lisbon, and Rabat.Currently the majority of his designs are created for shows in the United States alongside some in Canada and Mexico.I would like to congratulate Alan Wade on his appointment as the Jumping Course Designer for the Olympic Games LA28, said FEI president Ingmar De Vos.Crucial roleThis is a crucial role for the success of equestrian in Los Angeles, and Im convinced that we have made the right choice.Alan Wade is hugely experienced and has a profound understanding of the sport.He is well known for his subtle designs, which are challenging but set a fair test for the athletes and the horses and reward skill and horsemanship.Im looking forward to world class jumping at the LA28 Olympic Games.The LA Games will take place 14 30 July 2028 atSanta Anita Equestrian Parkin Arcadia.Team and individual competitions in showjumping, dressage, and eventing haveall been confirmedas a part of the Olympic competition schedule.Main image FEI/Martin Dokupil.Related contentIt will be a great challenge: cross-country course designer named for the 2028 OlympicsPark where Seabiscuit won his last race confirmed as venue for LA OlympicsGuide to equestrians sports at the Olympic GamesGold for British showjumpers at Paris OlympicsYou can never dream too big: Laura Collett wins individual Olympic medalThe post Irish official appointed jumping course designer for LA Olympics appeared first on Your Horse.

Key Point Description Understanding Shetland Pony Size and Bridle Needs Shetland ponies have compact sizes, typically ranging from 7 to 11 hands. Consider the pony's head size and shape when selecting a bridle. Bridle Parts to Measure Measure the Bridle Headpiece (86-98 cm), Browband (37 cm), and Noseband (42-54 cm) for a comfortable fit. Types of Bridles Snaffle Bridles are simple for everyday riding; Double Bridles are for advanced riding but might be too heavy for some Shetlands. Leather Quality Opt for high-quality, durable, and comfortable leather that ages well. Adjustable Features Choose bridles with adjustable cheekpieces and nosebands for tailored comfort. Cavesson vs. Flash Noseband A cavesson is simplistic, while a flash provides more control but can be restrictive if misused. Measuring and Fitting Use a soft tape measure for accurate measurements. Ensure the bridle is neither too tight nor too loose. Additional Tips Consult a professional if unsure, and consider custom options tailored to your pony's needs. Conclusion Focus on comfort and fit for the perfect bridle. Prioritize adjustability and comfort for enhancing the pony's riding experience. Finding the Perfect Bridle: A Guide to Choosing Comfort and Style for Your Shetland Pony Choosing the right bridle for a Shetland pony is crucial for both comfort and style. Heres a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect bridle for your beloved companion. Understanding Shetland Pony Size and Bridle Needs Shetland ponies are known for their compact size, typically ranging from about 7 to 11 hands (28 to 44 inches or 71 to 112 cm) in height. When selecting a bridle, it's important to consider the pony's head size and shape. Shetlands often have proportionately large heads compared to their body size, so choosing a bridle that fits comfortably is vital. Bridle Parts to Measure Bridle Headpiece: Measure from bit to bit, over the top of the pony's head. For Shetlands, this measurement typically ranges between 86 to 98 cm. Browband: Measure from the end of each loop, straight across. The browband size for Shetlands is usually about 37 cm. Noseband: Measure as a circumference. For Shetlands, this ranges from 42 to 54 cm [3]. Types of Bridles Suitable for Shetland Ponies Snaffle Bridles: These are simple and suitable for everyday riding. They are often preferred for training young ponies. Double Bridles: These are more complex and used for advanced riding. They might be too heavy for some Shetlands, so it's important to consider the pony's experience and strength. Style and Comfort Considerations Leather Quality: High-quality leather is durable and comfortable for your pony. Look for soft, supple leather that will age well. Adjustable Features: Bridles with adjustable cheekpieces and nosebands can be tailored to fit your pony perfectly, ensuring comfort and preventing discomfort or rubbing. Cavesson vs. Flash Noseband: A cavesson noseband is more simplistic, while a flash provides additional control but can be more restrictive if not used correctly. Measuring and Fitting Your Pony Use a Soft Tape Measure: Measure each part of the bridle to ensure a proper fit. Using a soft, flexible tape measure will help you get accurate measurements without causing discomfort to your pony [9]. Check the Fit: Once you have your measurements, check the bridle's fit by placing it on your pony. Make sure it is neither too tight nor too loose. The browband should sit comfortably, and the noseband should not be too tight, allowing for two fingers to fit under it. Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Bridle Consult a Professional: If you're unsure about the size or type of bridle, consult with a professional equine fitter or a veterinarian. Consider Custom Options: Some manufacturers offer custom bridle options that can be tailored specifically to your pony's needs. Conclusion Finding the perfect bridle for your Shetland pony requires attention to detail and a focus on comfort and fit. By understanding the different measurements and types of bridles available, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your pony's riding experience. Remember to prioritize comfort and adjustability for the best results. This blog provides valuable insights into choosing the right bridle for your Shetland pony, emphasizing comfort, style, and accuracy in measurements. To ensure credibility and authority, it references reliable sources on bridle sizing and pony care [5].```html```