This weeks Wilmington Sunday Spotlight features Samia Al Otaiba, a dedicated 12-year-old rider who splits her time between the hunter and jumper rings with her string of ponies at WEC Wilmington. From sunup to sundown, Samia is often found back in the barn, lending a hand with everything from braiding to daily care. We caught up with Samia to learn more about her poniesSource

The tragic story of a veteran pony abandoned with a long list of veterinary issues has been shared by an equine charity to highlight a growing crisis in the UK. Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA) recently took in Spider after he was found in a poor condition, abandoned on private land. When inspectors attended the scene, they scanned the pony for a microchip, but none was found and no owner came forward. Spider was transported to HAPPAs Shores Hey Farm for a veterinary evaluation and it was found he had a long list of health issues including advanced Cushings disease, laminitis, extreme lameness, COPD and asthma, and a thickening in his right eye that threatened total vision loss.It soon became evident that Spider was beyond recovery and it was decided the kindest option was to put him to sleep.From an equine welfare standpoint, Spiders case was one of the most complex and heart-wrenching we have encountered, said Amanda Berry, Head of Equine Operations at HAPPA. Every time we believed we mightstabilise him, new complications emerged. But the guiding principle for us is always, we do what is best for the horse.In Spiders final days, prolonging life would have meant prolonging pain. As difficult as it was, euthanasia was the only humane option.Abandoned horses on the riseSpiders abandonment is not an isolated case and across the UK, equine welfare charities are facing increasing demands on their services.HAPPA reports a 33% increase in equines seized from owners unable to cope, with around 40% of those involving abandonment, while World Horse Welfare says that more than 6,000 horses in England and Wales are currently assessed to be at risk of neglect or suffering.The report Britains Horse Problem, published by a coalition of leading equine charities, warns that despite changes to legislation, such as fly-grazing laws and equine ID, the system remains broken and rescue charities are still operating in crisis mode.Without intervention, they warn the crisis will deepen, stretching the limited capacity of rescue and rehabilitation charities even further.The report states that enforcement, education and stronger regulation are key to change. Systematic failureCharities like ours exist to step in when owners fail or encounter crisis, but we are not miracle workers, said Sarah Arthur, CEO at HAPPA. Spiders story is a painful reminder that abandonment is not a random tragedy, it is often the outcome of systemic failure. Under-resourced owners, weak oversight and a lack of accountability. While we grieve his loss, we must also commit ourselves to preventing such tragedies in the future.To prevent more tragedies like Spiders, HAPPA is calling for stronger enforcement and regulation where local authorities are empowered and resourced to implement equine welfare laws fully. They are also rallying for increased public awareness and support through donations, sponsorships, volunteering and public advocacy, as well as intervention before crisis, as early help can prevent a crisis at a later point.More from Your HorseBeware autumn laminitis: expert advice to keep your horse safe this seasonExperts advise how to choose the best type of bedding to suit your horseUseful advice for clipping a horse who is scared of clippersBest things about hacking in autumn according to #Hack1000Miles challengersThe post Equine charity calls for action amidst growing abandonment crisis appeared first on Your Horse.

Horse Sport Ireland are seeking applications from venues who wish to host a leg of the DAFM Showjumping Studbook Series in 2026. Please note, this Expression of Interest form is for the Showjumping Section only.Venue application terms, conditions, and eligibilities for the Studbook Series can be foundhere.To complete the application form, please follow this link:Application FormThe closing date for receipt of applications will beat 5pm on Friday 28th November.Please note the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Studbook Series, delivered by Horse Sport Ireland are subject to funding by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under National Breeding Services.The post Venue Applications Open: DAFM Showjumping Studbook Series 2026 appeared first on .

Key Points Details Importance of Relaxed Upward Transitions Improves balance and straightness, encourages suppleness, and enhances trust between horse and rider for a harmonious ride. Establish and Maintain Forwardness Use leg cues to generate energy while retaining softness through leg-yield exercises. Communication and Timing Clear cues are vital; allow time for response to avoid tension or resistance. Balanced Seat and Relaxed Rider Aids A balanced seat with loose hips and firm yet elastic half halts for relaxed transitions. Prepare in the Gait Before Transitioning Ensure energy and contact in the preceding gait (e.g., active trot before canter). Use Half Halts to Rebalance Engage horses core, shift weight onto hindquarters for graceful transitions. Soft Hands and Follow-Through Allow with hands to prevent tension and facilitate smooth transitions. Adjust Body Position Maintain steady rein contact and a supple seat, using "catch and release" aids. Leg Yield and Shoulder-Fore Exercises Fosters softness and balance, engaging hindquarters for transitions. Transition Within a Gait Move from slow to working trots to build momentum and confidence for transitions. Walk-Trot-Halt Transitions Develops control and balance needed for tougher transitions. Common Issues Tension and rushing, loss of balance, resistance, and bracing against the bit. Scientific and Expert Insights Balance on the hind legs and proper timing crucial for smooth transitions. Final Thoughts Consistent practice and exercises improve the performance and harmony with the horse. How to Achieve Relaxed Upward Transitions for Energetic Horses: Tips and Techniques Upward transitions, the graceful movement from a slower gait to a faster one, are crucial for the development of an energetic horse. Whether you're transitioning from walk to trot or trot to canter, achieving relaxed upward transitions is essential for maintaining control and fluidity in your ride. In this guide, you'll discover practical tips and techniques drawn from expert equestrian principles. Why Relaxed Upward Transitions Matter Mastering relaxed upward transitions is a pivotal moment in the training of both horse and rider. These transitions are fundamental in improving balance and straightness, encouraging suppleness, and enhancing the trust between horse and rider. The benefits are extensive, but they all point toward achieving a harmonious ride. According to Dressage Today, an ideal transition involves the horse being "in front of the leg, on the seat, straight, uphill, round, and light." Preparing for the Upward Transition: Building the Right Foundation Establish and Maintain Forwardness Without Tension One of the most important steps in preparing your energetic horse for upward transitions is maintaining forwardness without tension. Utilize leg cues to generate energy while keeping leg-yield exercises in mind to retain softness. Communication and Timing Clear and consistent cues are vital. Your horse needs to understand the meaning of leg aids, whether they are a gentle squeeze of your legs or a cluck sound. Allow ample time for the horse to respond before intensifying the cues. According to the AQHA, rushing this communication results in tension or resistance. Maintain a Balanced Seat and Relaxed Rider Aids A balanced seat and relaxed aids are foundational for executing relaxed transitions. Keep your hips loose to move with the horses motion, making sure your half halts are firm yet elastic. This approach allows the aids to naturally flow through your body. Executing the Transition: Key Techniques Prepare in the Gait Before Transitioning Transition success starts in the preceding gait. For a trot to canter transition, for instance, ensure an active trot with generous forward energy and contact. Alternatively, ensure your horse is stepping energetically yet relaxed when moving from walk to trot. Use Half Halts to Rebalance Half halts are essential tools that help in engaging the horses core muscles and shifting their weight onto the hindquarters. Such engagement enables urgent yet graceful upward gait changes, akin to a "scoop" as mentioned by Dressage Today. Soft Hands and Follow-Through Light hands are as crucial as initiating cues; when you feel the horse lift into the new gait, allow with your hands. This prevents unnecessary tension and facilitates a smooth transition. Adjust Body Position Your body acts as a guide for your horse. During the transition, maintain steady yet flexible rein contact and a supple seat to follow the horses movement subtly. A simple "catch and release" of aids can clarify the transition process to your horse without confusion. Specific Exercises to Improve Relaxed Upward Transitions Leg Yield and Shoulder-Fore Incorporating leg yields before transitions fosters softness and balance. These movements engage the horses hindquarters, helping ease the horse into upward transitions from shoulder-fore positions. Transition Within a Gait Work on transitions within the same gait, moving from slow to working trots. Such exercises prepare the horse for canter transitions incrementally, building momentum and confidence. Walk-Trot-Halt Transitions Incorporate smooth successions between walk, trot, and halt into your routine. These will develop overall control and balance, essential skills before tackling tougher transitions. Troubleshooting Common Issues Horse Rushes or Becomes Tense If your horse rushes or anticipates transitions, reconsider the timing and clarity of your cues. Establish a more relaxed approach to the transition. Loss of Balance or Resistance Ensure the horse's weight is evenly distributed on the hindquarters and remains straight. Using half halts and engaging in lateral work like leg yields can cure imbalance issues. Horse Braces Against the Bit To avoid this, relax your hands during the transition, encouraging the horse to rise into the new gait rather than press into the bit. Supporting Scientifically and Expert-Backed Insights Remember, timing and balance are key. By focusing on balance on the hind legs, you can smoothly transition your horse into the next gait. The AQHA advises giving time for the horse to process transition aids for an unhurried response. Meanwhile, Ritter Dressage states the six necessary conditions for relaxation and ease during transitions. Final Thoughts Achieving relaxed upward transitions is a rewarding journey that enhances harmony and performance with your energetic horse. Through preparation, consistent practice, and incorporating exercises like leg yields and half halts, you can see significant improvements. Discover more horse riding equipment to enhance your equestrian experience with our full range of Jodhpurs, Boots, and Gloves. 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A short list this week, but some nice young horses doing well in some well supported classes.See below the up-to-date results for this week unverified results will be added to next weeks results.The Event at TerraNova (USA) 13th 16th November 2025CCI 4* Long2nd Sportsfield Lumiere (ISH)[was Lumiere] 2015 gelding by Orestus (KWPN) out of Utah van de Bucxtaele (BWP) by Phin Phin (BWP). Breeder: Margaret Dobby. Rider: Hayley Frielick (NZL) 31.8, 0, 0.0 = 31.8.CCI 4* Short3rd Fernhill Salt Lake (ISH)[was Haw Minister] 2015 gelding by My O My (HOLST) out of Salt Lake City (ISH)[TIH] by Yeats (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: James Hickey. Rider: Waylon Roberts (CAN) 31.7, 8, 0.0 = 39.77th Dondante (ISH) [was Cooley All Air] 2010 gelding by Pacino (BWP) out of Muckno Clover [ISH] by Euro Clover [ISH]. Breeder: Francis Brennan (Monaghan). Rider: Meg Pellegrini (USA) 34.0, 2, 10.0 = 46.0.CCI 1* Long2nd WHS Lincoln Supreme (ISH) 2018 gelding by Mr Lincoln (ISH) out of Wineport Supreme (ISH) by Courage II (HOLST). Breeder: Michael OSulivan. Rider: Alyssa Phillips (USA) 27.3, 0, 0.0 = 27.37th Carrickview Calvani (ISH) 2018 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Partout (HOLST) by Heraldik (TB). Breeder: John Haighey. Rider: Sara Kozumplik (USA) 29.2, 0, 2.8 = 32.0.CCI 3* Long1st First Obama (ISH) gelding by Diarado (HOLST) out of Ruskey Lady (ISH)[TIH] by Rich Rebel (TB). Breeder: Mikey Kelly. Rider: Marley Stone Bourke (USA) 32.2, 1.6, 3.2 = 37.02nd Greenhall Good Decision (ISH)[was Grenhall Illuminator] 2017 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Greenhall Indicator (ISH) by Limmerick (HOLST). Breeder: Derry Rothwell. Rider: Sydney Elliott (USA) 29.9, 5.2, 11.0 = 46.13rd Cooley Criminal Mind [ISH][was Ballyneety Roly Poly] 2012 gelding by Diamond Roller [ISH] out of Ballyneety Royale (ISH)[TIH] by Beau Royale (TB). Breeder: Fiona Hickey (Limerick). Rider: Riley Zgrebnak (USA) 34.9, 12, 0.0 = 46.99th Baymax (ISH) 2013 gelding by ARD Vivendi (HOLST) out of Olympics Corner (ISH) by Olympic Lux (KWPN). Breeder: Mary Quirke (Tipperary). Rider: Colin Gaffney (USA) 29.2, 1.2, 22.4 = 52.810th HSH Sebastian (ISH)[was MBF Silver Bridge] 2017 gelding by Silvano (KWPN) out of My Rochestown Lady (TB) by Beneficial (TB). Breeder: John P Murphy. Rider: Caroline Pamukcu (USA) 28.4, 4, 20.8 = 53.2.CCI 2* Long5th Rock Island (ISH)[TIH] 2017 gelding by Island Commander (TB) out of Coolcorren Gypsey (ISH)[TIH] by Coolcorran Cool Diamond (ISH). Breeder: Michael Byrne. Rider: Robin Walker (USA) 31.9, 0.4, 0.4 = 32.76th Ardeo Dance Monkey (ISH) 2017 gelding by Setter (KWPN) out of Kingstona (LAT) by Koperniks (HOLST). Breeder: Etter Sportpferde AG. Rider: Ella Hubert (USA) 32.9, 0, 0.0 = 32.99th Fernhill Focus Maxi (ISH)[was BSI Focus Maximus] 2013 gelding by Candillo Z (HOLST) out of Stay Focused (ISH) by ARD VDL Douglas (KWPN). Breeder: Michael Buckley (Waterford). Rider: Jake Tessler (USA) 35.6, 0, 0.0 = 35.6.CCI 1* Long2nd WHS Lincoln Supreme (ISH) 2018 gelding by Mr Lincoln (ISH) out of Wineport Supreme (ISH) by Courage II (HOLST). Breeder: Michael OSulivan. Rider: Alyssa Phillips (USA) 27.3, 0, 0.0 = 27.37th Carrickview Calvani (ISH) 2018 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) out of Partout (HOLST) by Heraldik (TB). Breeder: John Haighey. Rider: Sara Kozumplik (USA) 29.2, 0, 2.89 = 32.0.Open Preliminary3rd Tradhearg Gold Imperium (ISH)[TIH] 2016 gelding by Puisance (ISH)[TIH] out of Golden Rose Bouncer (ID) by Grange Bouncer (ID) Breeder: Anthony Gillespie. Rider: Kyle Carter (CAN) 27.1, 4, 0.0 = 31.15th Islandwood Quality Control (ISH) 2015 mare by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Suir Touch (ISH) by Touchdownm(ISH). Breeder: Gerard OConnor. Rider: Vanessa Stevenson (USA) 31.8, 0, 0.0 = 31.8.Preliminary Rider2nd Cooley One To Many (ISH) 2008 gelding by Jack Of Diamonds (SWB) out of Taffin. (ISH) by Delamain (TB). Breeder: Ronnie Kelly (Limerick). Rider: Erin Wages (USA) 21.1, 4, 6.4 = 31.5.Ram Trap Horse Trials (USA) 14th 16th November 2025Open Modified1st West Coast Cooley (ISH)[TIH] 2016 gelding by Pointilliste (TB) out of Hugginstown Imp (ISH) by Master Imp (TB). Breeder: John Irish. Rider: Keelari Mauzy (USA) 28.1, 0, 0.0 = 28.1.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post Lots of Podium Places for Irish Sport Horses appeared first on .

Sweetnam breaks GP duck as McGuane and Chawke also winNorth America was the place to be for Irish equestrians this week where Down man, Conor Swail moved to the top of the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup rankings with a stunning victory in Toronto with Conall Murrays Casturano, while there were three victories at three-star level too.Pride of place in that regard went to Cork native Shane Sweetnam, who ended a frustrating run of second-place finishes to bag a belated maiden Grand Prix win of the year with Coriaan van Klapscheut.Philip McGuane, from Clare, had raised the tricolour at the Florida venue earlier in the week My Lady van de Krekel while down in Santa Anita, Laois athlete, James Chawke was victorious with Daido vant Ruytershof Z.It was the five-star triumph of Swail that was the highlight, however, winning the $280,000 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup leg at the Royal Toronto Show.Only three riders made it to the jump-off and the experience of the Darragh Cross man told as he and Casturano brought a sold-out crowd of more than 6,500 fans to their feet as the final athlete into the ring to beat off American duo Skylar Wireman (Barclino B) and Mimi Gochman (Inclen BH) with a lightning quick clear round of 41.24 seconds.While the two Americans are only beginning their journeys in this arena at the age of 21, the 53-year-old Swail has been there, seen that and worn the t-shirt out in the wash.Casturano knows the time of day too, having finished among the top 10 in three previous World Cup events.The key moment in the tiebreaker was when Swail gave Casturano the office to stand off the large oxer and when they made they landed on the other side with the fence intact, they had the momentum from there to beat Wiremans time.There was an opportunity there for me to go and win, and I do try to take opportunities when I see them. I really gave it my best shot, and thankfully today it really worked out.When he jumped (Fence 1), he was a little slow on the turn, Swail explained in his debrief. I saw a really big distance, and he didnt really go for it in the beginning. (The jump) was getting further and further away. He was very good to pick up there, but it actually got him goingThe rest of the round he was really on the bridle and taking me to the jumps.Swail has his sights set firmly on a return to the World Cup Finals, set for Fort Worth (USA) in April 2026, and he now leads the North American league standings with 38 points, having supplanted his great friend Daniel Coyle in that position. The Derry man was unable to add to his strong results in Williamsburg and Washington.I plan on doing the World Cup Finals this year; I feel its a good fit for Casturano, continued Swail. He has developed over the last couple of years at the five-star level andThis year, I feel that Casturano is ready to do it, Swail added. Hes jumped at the five-star level for two years now, so I think that he can give it a good run. Hes an incredible athlete, and he jumps an awful lot of clear rounds, which is what you need to do at the finals I think hes ready to go to one of these championships with a very good chance of doing well.The pair had warmed up with a runner-up finish in the Strength & Speed Welcome Stakes on Wednesday night and while the home supporters were cheering the success of Erynn Ballard with Lets Fly, who stopped the timers in 26.85 on the speed phase after registering a double clear, Swail would have been more than satisfied by the vibes he was getting from Casturano, who was quick without having to dig deep in 27.49.McGuane and My Lady van de Krekel bagged first prize in the three-star 1.45m two-phase class in Wellingtons International Ring on Thursday night, and on Saturday, the pair were third in a speed class, won by Ashlee Bond with Night Wish, while Galwegian David OBrien and El Balou Old finished seven-hundredths of a second in front of the Corofin athlete and his mare, to secure the silver medal.But the show ended in a blaze of green, white and orange when Sweetnam and Coriaan van Klapscheut garnered the lions share of the prize money in a dramatic jump-off to decide the Grand Prix.Forty-five pairings went through the pocket and the jump-off also included Clareman David Blake with Conblue, but they had a rail down and finished tenthBut finally this year, Sweetnam and Coriaan had the requisite speed to go with the jumping accuracy, stopping the clock on 44.5, which was 0.15 quicker than Rupert Carl Winklemann (GER) with Imodo, to land the spoils.My year has been about seconds. He was second in Devon (PA) and he was second in Aachen (Germany), the Castlemagner pilot said of the nine-year old Belgian Warmblood. He had also also narrowly missed out on victory recently with the 12-year old Irish Sport Horse, James Kann Kruz notably runners up in Tryon, Traverse City and the Hampton.Its actually my first Grand Prix win this year so its nice to get it over the line, said the 44-year old World No 16.In Santa Anita, Abbeyleix rider, James Chawke and his ultra-reliable Daido vant Ruytershof Z topped a field of 57 with as one-sided a win as you are ever likely to see in a speed class.Proving a class apart in Friday mornings 1.45m three-star competition, the pair prevailed by more than two and three-quarters of a second.The post Swail on top of the world appeared first on .

Section Key Points Understanding EHV Equine Herpesvirus (EHV), including EHV-1, poses global health threats to horses with respiratory, abortion, and neurological issues. Gloucestershire Context Managing EHV is crucial in Gloucestershire due to the high density of horses. Recent EHV Cases A single EHV-1 respiratory case was reported by Three Counties Equine Hospital in 2025. Clinical Signs & Diagnosis EHV-1 symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, neurological issues; diagnosed via PCR testing. Impact on Health & Welfare Outbreaks affect horse movement and economy, with some cases leading to long-term disability or euthanasia. Prevention Measures Vaccination, biosecurity, timely reporting, and education are key strategies against EHV. Equine Industry in Gloucestershire Frequent horse events necessitate precautionary measures like Horse Fly Protection. Conclusion EHV management relies on vigilant surveillance, diagnostics, vaccination, and biosecurity. Understanding the Impact of EHV Cases on Equine Health in GloucestershireThe equine world never sleeps; whether you're galloping in Gloucestershire or trotting through tech articles on the web, you always need to stay informed. Equine Herpesvirus (EHV), including the alarmingly multifaceted EHV-1, continues to pose a tremendous health threat globally and right here in Gloucestershire, UK. In this article, we will explore everything EHV, focusing on its local impact and offering useful strategies to keep your favorite four-legged friends safe and sound. What is EHV and Why Does it Matter?EHV is an abbreviation for Equine Herpesvirus, a complex group of viruses that can cause multiple ailments in horses including respiratory diseases, abortions, and neurological disorders. Particularly, EHV-1 raises the stakes with its capability to kick up neurological issues termed as equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy. The virus is the equivalent of a multi-course meal of horse health issuesoffering a side of respiratory illness and late-term abortions for variety. Its almost as if EHV-1 is the unwanted gift that keeps on giving [2][3].Why Gloucestershire?In areas like Gloucestershire, where horses are as common as rainy afternoons, managing EHV is particularly daunting. The virus is endemic in the UK, making vigilance equivalent to an ongoing chess game where a wrong move can mean Checkmate for horse health and safety [2]. Recent EHV Cases in GloucestershireAccording to surveillance data from early 2025, a lone EHV-1 respiratory infection case was reported on a Gloucestershire premises. Although just a single instance, think of it as the canary in the coal minewhen it coughs, everyone pays attention [1][4].Three Counties Equine Hospital: The Frontline SoldiersOur unsung heroes at the Three Counties Equine Hospital are actively reporting these cases, highlighting their indispensable role in battling this pervasive equine adversary [4].Clinical Signs and DiagnosisThe clinical signs of EHV-1 would make any vet's head spin. From fever and nasal discharge to severe neurological symptoms like ataxia or bladder dysfunction, this virus checks off a morbidly impressive list of symptoms [1][3].How is it Diagnosed?PCR testing is the pivotal player in the diagnosis game, assessing both nasal swabs and blood samples for rapid virus confirmation. Its like a swift private detective who brings you the clues you desperately need to save the day [1][3]. Impact on Equine Health and Welfare Even a limited outbreak necessitates affected horses be enclosed in thorough isolation. Movement restrictions are a frequent guide to preventing further spread. The economic downtime is notable, affecting training, competitions, and breeding programs. Neurological cases may lead some horses to serious long-term disability or even euthanasia [3].An outbreak study demonstrated that 58% of horses on an impacted property were EHV-1 positive, but many remained asymptomatica recipe for silent transmission.[3]Prevention and Control MeasuresIn fighting EHV, prevention is your best friend. Do consider the following key strategies:Vaccination: Safety ArmorVaccines for EHV may not fully prevent infection, but they are akin to armor, reducing severity and viral shedding. Grab your shield at [Jodhpur Collection](https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/collections/horse-riding-jodhpurs-breeches-tights). Biosecurity: Hygiene PlanAdhering to strict hygiene protocols, isolating new or suspected horses, and limiting horse movement during outbreaks can shield your stable fort. Discover [Stable Rugs](https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/collections/stable-rugs) to compliment your biosecurity efforts.Surveillance and Reporting: Stay AlertTimely and precise disease reporting aids in diagnosis and containmentessential game changers making a vast difference in a hurdling crisis [4].Education: An Informed MindsetYard managers, owners, and anyone with a fondness for horses must actively participate in recognizing symptoms and applying preventive protocols.Gloucestershires Equine Industry ContextGloucestershire is an equine hub where horse races, events, and leisure riding are as routine as morning cups of tea. With frequent horse movements, understanding [Horse Fly Protection](https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/collections/fly-protection) and its benefits becomes paramount.ConclusionEquine Herpesvirus challenges all of us in Gloucestershires vibrant horse community. Effective management leans on the watchful eyes of accurate surveillance, rapid diagnostics, preventive vaccination, and falling back on strict biosecurity to protect both our beloved horses and the broader equine industry. By staying informed and ever-vigilant, you'll ensure your horse doesn't just walk, trot, or canter but does so safely and blissfully jumping over life's many hurdles.Ready to ensure your equine friends thrive? Look no further than the everyday essentials like [Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements](https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/collections/horse-everyday-supplements). Equipped with knowledge, diligence, and dedication, you become the caretaker they require.

Whether youre hitting an extra-long trail or taking the marathon riding trip of a lifetime, these travel must-haves will ensure you can focus on the fun.Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream SPF 50+ When youre on vacation, theres little time to wait for your sunscreen to dry before you blast off to the barn or beach. This dry-touch facial sunblock for oily, acne-prone skin ensures you dont have to delay, so dirt is less likely to stick to it. An added bonus? Its extra water- and sweat-resistant.Available for $19.58 on caretobeauty.com.Blundstone Chelsea No. 550 Iconic for a reason, Blundstone boots mold to your feet and wear like iron; theyre made of durable, double-stitched leather. The Chelsea No. 550 boot offers outstanding, lightweight shock absorption. Pull tabs make sure you can get them on quickly and easily.Available for $209.95 on blundstone.com.Hydaway Collapsible Travel Bottle A collapsible water bottle ensures you stay hydrated without weighing you down. Collapses to a 1.5-inch disc and holds 17 ounces of water when expanded (a 25-ounce option is also available). Dishwasher safe, its made of food-grade silicone and BPA-free plastic. Available in a variety of colors.Available for $29.95 on shop.myhydaway.com.Helmet Brims Horseback Riding Standard Brim Sun VisorThe Helmet Brims Riding Sun Visor blocks both the sun and the rain without blocking your vision. Lightweight and easy to fit onto your helmet using velcro and elastic, this visor is made with Australian shade cloth that ensures high sun protection while also being exceptionally durable and offering a bit of visibility. Various trim color options.Available for $46.95 fromridingwarehouse.com.Carmex Weather Guard Stick with SPF 30Whether youre in the rain or in the wind, Carmex Weather Guard Stick with SPF 30 is the perfect moisturizing lip balm. Offering both UVA and UVB protection, this cocoa butter-infused balm is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.4-count available for $9.99 on amazon.com.Body Glide Anti-Chafe Stick Keep your thighs and backside chafe-free no matter how long you spend in the saddle with Body Glide Anti Chafe Stick. Sweat- and water-resistant, this easy-to-apply balm creates an invisible barrier to protect skin from rubbing, chafing, pinching, and other irritants.Available from $5.49 to $16.99 on bodyglide.com.Ariat VentTEK Stretch Shirt Wear-tested and ready to ride, the button-front shirt offers UV protection and VentTEK side panels for air flow. Its moisture-wicking technology is designed for optimal comfort in any weather, ensuring you look good no matter how long you ride.Available for $58.95 on ariat.com.Acavallo Ortho-Pubis Seat Savers Its not always your seat bones that get sore when youre spending hours on end in the saddle. Acavallo Ortho-Pubis Seat Savers reduce pressure around the pubic bones, ensuring more even weight distribution and a comfortable, safer seat. Available in western, dressage and jumping options.Price varies by model; purchase on acavallo.com.This article about trail and marathon riding essentials appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post Trail and Marathon Riding Essentials appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.