Member of the Week: Julia Boston

"Julia Boston is a wonderful young lady, she has attended several of our rides and is currently in 1st place for the Junior Division for the State of California. She is very polite, kind and her love for animals shows in her interactions with each and every one of them. Julia and her POA, Ceasar, make an awesome team. He came to her barely broke and is now very willing, her commitment and effort really show . Julia has been riding independently since she was 5 yrs of age. Her favorite trainers are Parelli, Clinton Anderson & Stacy Westfall. She also hopes to compete in the Extreme Mustang Makeover one day and I'm sure she will succeeded!"

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring ACTHA's Member of the Week. Julia will receive a gift of a silver pendant and will be eligible to win a Custom Silver Buckle. www.mollyscustomsilver.com

If you would like to nominate a rider, ride host, judge or volunteer to become our next member of the week, click here >> http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF

Nominations may also be sent to laurie@actha.us

Kansas Team, Lisa and Bucyrus, Earn Silver Medal

Lisa Wolters and Bucyrus, a Percheron gelding, flawlessly perform the Bridge Obstacle.  The Kansas based team have recently earned a Silver Medal, awarding them custom silver bridle conchos from Molly's Custom Silver.  They are moving now toward earning their Gold.  Lisa and Bucyrus are currently ranked #1 in Kansas, #2 in Nebraska, #4 in Arkansas, and #8 on the National Leader Board in Pleasure Division.  Good luck to this awesome team toward a very successful finish this season!

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring the ACTHA Silver Medal Award.  www.mollyscustomsilver.com

Photo by Donna Kay Parker

Joyce Gorsek and Iamborntorope; Outstanding Accomplishments

Joyce Gorsek and Iamborntorope (Roper), an Appalosa gelding, make their way around the outer perimeter of the Wagon Wheel Obstacle at a trot. Joyce and Roper, residing in Missouri, currently rank #1 in Arkansas, #1 in Missouri, #2 in Kansas, #2 in Iowa, and #2 in the Nation in the Open Division. Joyce and Roper have completed 101 rides and accumulated 531 points as a rider team, and have recently earned the highest possible Medal; The Hall of Fame. Past medals achieved by the team include Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. Congratulations to this outstanding team, together they have accomplished a lot, their continued hard work and dedication is quite an inspiration!

Photo by Donna Kay Parker

Platinum Medal Winners Ann Harris and Marty's Spotted Go Boy, aka Marty

Congratulations to Ann Harris and Marty of Georgia, for their achievement of the ACTHA Platinum Medal Award!   "I'm so proud of Marty... the BEST trail partner ANY one could have!!" says Ann. 

Marty, a Spotted Saddle Horse gelding, has now acquired over 300 points with ACTHA, marking his Platinum Medal status. The team's achievement earns them a one year supply of Equine Supplement from Platinum Performance.  Ann and Marty are the 7th horse/rider team in the nation to achieve the ACTHA Platinum Medal Award.  Prior to the Platinum Medal, the team have earned a Gold Medal, Silver Medal and Bronze.  Currently, Ann and Marty are ranked #1 in the state of Georgia and #9 Nationally.  We are very proud of this team's tremendous achievements, a lot of hard work, dedication and team work have truly paid off! 

We would like to thank our sponsors at Platinum Performance for supporting ACTHA and its members.  Please be sure to visit them on Facebook and let them know we appreciate them!

Click to visit Platinum Performance on Facebook >>
Platinum Performance Online: www.platinumperformance.com

This is My Trail Horse: Pumpkin Spice

By Mary Lynne Carpenter

Pumpkin Spice is a 13.2 hand chestnut gelding who has stolen my heart. Spice’s breed origins are unknown due to having been bought at auction out of a “kill buyer’s” lot a number of years ago by a previous owner. Spice is estimated to be 13 years old.

I am his fourth owner since his near miss with the trip to the slaughter house. Before coming home to live with me last Summer, I knew that Spice had been a family trail mount for a few folks and also spent a year working at a therapeutic riding center where he carried adult and child riders with physical and cognitive challenges. I now ride him at home, on the trails and at the occasional horse show. Whatever his exact breed and history, Spice is clearly gaited so soon after I bought him I registered him with the American Gaited Pony Registry so he would have some paperwork to follow him in the future.

Spice definitely has a distinct personality and a mind of his own as is befitting most ponies, but he is generally a calm and steadfast riding partner. He is usually not bothered by unusual sites/sounds/obstacles and due to his level headedness, I have had fun experimenting with things like riding him bareback while carrying an umbrella. Out on the trails, he gives me confidence in a way that few horses do. Spice goes over and through mud, water and ditches without a fuss. He will lead, follow and go out alone though he definitely prefers a buddy.

I am so grateful to have the opportunity to care for Spice and ride him. Now that Spice and I are signed up with ACTHA, we are looking forward to our first ride later this year. I would love to find a venue for Spice where his best qualities- slow and steady- can be rewarded. I am hopeful that participating in ACTHA rides will be just the ticket.

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Spice will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by emailing laurie@actha.us

ACTHA Competitions for the Young & Old!

The 2nd Dogwood Farm CTC was a great one on April 13 in Axton, VA. Here are the winners of our Youngest and Oldest Rider Awards- Rita Hueston (mounted) of Charlottesville, VA, age 13, and David Reaser of Youngsville, NC, age 75.  Congratulations, riders!

New Option for AOC Formats

GAMBLER'S CHOICE - AOC
Coming to an Arena Obstacle Challenge (AOC) Near You!

Optional feature to upcoming AOCs is the “Gambler’s Choice”.  Riders perform 8 obstacles in the covered or open arena, pasture or field.  Once all riders complete the course and are judged, "Gambler’s Choice” is called.  Riders have the option to PLAY or STAY.

If the rider approaching his obstacle the second round calls PLAY, their first scores are thrown out,
and the horse/rider are judged a second time.  Rider must use the second round scores.  Riders calling out STAY may perform the obstacles a second time for show and fun, their first scores will stay and they will not be judged the second round.  Spectators are encouraged to cheer riders about their decisions to PLAY or STAY!

 

What is an AOC? (Arena Obstacle Challenge)
ACTHA’s New Trail Challenge takes Events to the Arena

The American Competitive Trail Horse Association recently released a new format which allows events to be held in an arena (indoor, outdoor or covered), in order to protect riders from extreme weather conditions. The new  Arena Obstacle Challenges (AOCs ) will allow trail riders to enjoy the challenge of the trail obstacles, without having to stay out on the trail for an extended period of time.
An AOC may be held at any time when scheduled in conjunction with a CTC, or they may be scheduled as a stand-alone event during the extreme weather months of December, January, February, July and August.

ACTHA Arena Obstacle Challenges consist of eight ACTHA-approved obstacles. Riders have the option of entering various divisions which suit their skills and they will be competing for ribbons  just like ACTHA’s original format, the Competitive Trail Challenge (CTC). Unlike CTCs, which are usually between 6 to 8 miles, the obstacles of an AOC will be set up in one location in an arena or field, and riders will complete all of these obstacles consecutively, within an 8 minute time period. Riders will also have the option of being able to compete on multiple horses.

Hosting ACTHA CTCs and AOCs has proven to be a powerful fund raising tool for many nonprofits across the nation. Approximately 70% of ACTHA’s events are hosted by nonprofit organizations. In addition to ride proceeds, ACTHA donates an additional $3 per rider from every Competitive Trail Challenge to a charity selected by the Ride Host. This can be any local equine nonprofit of their choosing.

For more information on hosting an ACTHA AOC to benefit your ranch, club or charity, visit www.actha.us or please contact trailboss@actha.us.

Member of the Week: Lisa Parkhurst

Please join us in congratulating this week's Member of the Week; Lisa Bohanon Parkhust of Virginia. Lisa recently put on her first ACTHA ride as a Ride Host, co-hosted by her daughter, Lindsey. Lisa's very first ride consisted of 100 riders, no small undertaking for a new Ride Host! Lisa's ride marks the second 100 rider CTC for a first time Ride Host in 2013, the first taking place in Texas earlier this year.

Lisa embodies all the qualities of a great Ride Host; ambitious, friendly, committed, and maintaining a professional and positive attitude at all times. We highly commend Lisa and her daughter for this tremendous success! Great job, Lisa and Lindsey!

Some of the many great comments from riders at Lisa's ride include:

"I liked the safety checks. I LOVED the fact that the ride hosts were mother and daughter. Family is what ACHTA is all about. They were terrific."
"Excellent trails and facility. Lisa and Lyndsey did an excellent job with this event!"
"Obstacles were all fun, safe, challenging and spaced nicely. Each rider got the royal treatment which was very nice."
"The host was so kind! We had a great time. Loved the pot luck dinner Friday night."
"Safety check, friendly judges, themed obstacles, silent auction was great, tack swap excellent, mini clinics were good also. Lunch and dinner were terrific."
"Belmead is the perfect place to do ACTHA. I dearly hope they do another one soon!"
"Pleasent Judges (men at Bridge were GREAT)"
"Beautiful place to ride and everyone was so super nice!!!!! Workers & riders"
"Beautiful area! Definitely will come back to Belmeade."
"The person in charge was very helpful and made this ride fun not stressful."
"Judges were fun and helpful"
"Very organized and creative, would definitely go back to this host's rides."
"For the size of the ride it went very smoothly and the scores came out on schedule. That was very nice. We drove over 3 hours and we couldn't camp so keeping on schedule so we could get home at a decent hour was a definite plus."

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring ACTHA's Member of the Week. Each winner receives a custom pendant or tie/lapel pin from Molly, at the end of the year a drawing will be held from among all Members of the Week for a silver buckle valued at 195.00. www.mollyscustomsilver.com

To view past winners, or if you would like to nominate a member, Ride Host, Judge or Volunteer to become ACTHA's Member of the Week, click here: https://www.facebook.com/ACTHA/app_245542992242407

This is my Trail Horse: Cisco's Will to Survive

By Shawn Wallace

In 2007 fate brought me what has become my best friend with four legs. I was at the vet's office with a family member's horse when a man approached me asking if I would be interested in a free gelding.  What horse person can pass up a free horse? The only thing was that the gelding had an injury to his leg that had been seen by a vet and was being treated with daily antibiotics, didn't sound so bad, so I got the man's address and agreed to go by and take a look at the gelding.

An hour later I pulled into the man's yard and made my way back to the barn.  I found Cisco in a 30x40 pen that was 5" deep in slick mud with no water. His "leg injury" was a grossly infected rear hoof that had so much swelling and proud flesh protruding from the coronet band that you could barely see the hoof itself. He was so skittish that I had to corner him to catch him so that I could get a better look at him.  My initial impression was that his injuries were far above my level of expertise to take care of and that it would be better if I found him a home. I put him back in his pen and decided I had to at least give him some water before I left. As I was filling up the water this little gelding that only minutes before I had to corner to catch, now was standing next to me nuzzling my hair. That was it, I was done.

I headed home but couldn't think of anything else other than this little gelding.  We no sooner made it home with Cisco when we received a phone call from an Ag deputy that had been assigned to investigate Cisco's case and she informed me that the man had not had permission to give Cisco away and that she would need to approve our home before allowing me to keep him.  The next day the deputy came out and cleared us to keep him provided we update her after the vet and farrier came out the following week.

The following week the vet and farrier came out to evaluate Cisco's injuries.  We were all shocked when they discovered a piece of wood 4" long had impaled Cisco's hoof thru the top of the coronet band and had become lodged in the center. According to the cruelty investigation, the wood had been in there for over a month.

The center of his hoof was almost completely rotted and had to be cut away and flushed. Over the next year we watched as the hoof slowly grew out, but always having a small weak spot in the top of the hoof near the coronet band where the stick had pierced. This once timid, shy gelding had now grown into a puppy dog, following me around everywhere. By now we had even begun to do some light trail riding.

Two years later, Cisco was having reoccurring abscesses so I called the vet out to do some more x-rays. As he developed the film he commented how he didn't know how this horse was moving let alone going on trail rides. As he showed me the x-ray, he pointed out where one of the bones in his hoof had been fractured. He estimated that the damage had been done when the stick went through the hoof. The prognosis was that eventually the bone would give way and that Cisco would have to be euthanized within two years.

Over the next year I tried my best to retire Cisco so that I could have him around as long as possible. He started having more abscesses from the injured hoof, I was afraid the time was coming that I would have to put him down. I called the vet back out to take more x-rays. When the vet finished with the x-rays he was shocked and pleased to show me that the cause of the abscesses was an empty pocket left from the wood that, for whatever reason, had not filled in as the hoof grew. It had been allowing bacteria to settle in, and that in fact the fractured bone had actually calcified over and healed itself.

With the great news of Cisco's bone healing, my farrier tried a more aggressive procedure and cut the majority of the front of his hoof off and burned the tissue to kill any left over bacteria. Two years later the hoof is almost completely grown out, only leaving a small indention on the bottom to prove it was ever there.

We have been on trail rides from Florida to North Carolina and even in Virginia. We have come upon black bear, turkey, deer and the only thing I've found him to shy away from is gray rocks and gray armadillo!  This horse, that at one time had to be cornered to catch, is the one I trust to go through anything.  Given his spirit and will to survive, I'm sure we'll be enjoying trails together for many years to come.  We have even entered our first ACTHA ride to be held next month!  He is not just a trail horse, he is my best friend, confidant, shoulder to cry on, therapist and my most patient teacher.

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Cisco will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by emailinglaurie@actha.us

Ask a Vet: Rattlesnake Bites in Horses

Q: I have heard of several rattlesnake bites already this year, and some fatalities from them. How have you successfully treated a rattlesnake bite to an equidae? I'd especially like to hear from folks who had venomous bites, not just dry ones. We lost Josh's mule last year to a bite and I would like to know how to reverse that outcome if it should happen to another critter. Antivenin is very expensive-do you vets keep it around...isn't it expensive? Doesn't it expire? Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me! ~ Lisa Wolters

 

Lisa,
This a great question and very timely as we are definetly starting to see these snakes emerge from their dens this time of year.  Rattlesnake bites are frightening and can be challenging to treat. Unfortunately there is currently no equine rattlesnake vaccine like they have for dogs.  Rattlesnakes present several unique challenges in the horse. 

The most important and most immediate is that unlike most species, horses are obligate nasal breathers, meaning that they can only breath out of their nose and not their mouth.  In addition, the majority of rattlesnake bites occur on the face or muzzle when horses are grazing and startle a snake.  When this occurs the face and muzzle can rapidly start to swell and within several hours after a snake bite nasal swelling may becomes so severe that horses are unable to breath.  If this occurs the horse often requires a procedure called a temporary tracheotomy; a surgical incision in the neck to open the trachea which allows the horse to breath.  In the event that your veterinarian is unable to get to you and your horse right away, two six inch segments of garden hose can be cut and inserted into the nostril to keep the airway open long enough for your veterinarian to reach you.  Once an open airway has been established horses should be started on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs (usually NSAID, steroids or both) to decrease the swelling, pain and inflammation associated with the bite.

Horses may also need supportive treatment such as IV fluid or a liquid diet for a few days if facial swelling prevents them from being able to easily eat and drink.  In addition to the immediate life threatening facial swelling rattlesnake venom has several other slower onset complications.   The two most significant is the venom’s ability to effect blood clotting and its effect on the heart.  Horses can develop dangerous cardiac arrhythmias or they can sustain damage to the heart muscle itself causing heart attack like results. These side effects often don’t occur until several days(and in some cases up to months) after the snake bite.  Antivenin can be used to treat horses but there are several draw backs to its use.  First, in Texas where I practice we have several different types of venomous snakes in our area including the Coral snake for which rattlesnake antivenin is not effective and more often than not, the type of snake is unknown.  Second, very little research has been done looking at antivenin in the horse.  For that reason, the most effective dose is really not known.  Lastly, like you noted it is extremely expensive.  The cost for antivenin is about $2,000 per vial, the average human patient is usually given at least five vials.  For this reason most veterinary practices don’t keep it on the shelf but it can sometimes be obtained from nearby human hospitals.

Although rattle snake bites are painful and frightening, most horses survive them.  A recent study from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine found that 91% of horses survived rattlesnake bites. The most important aspect of successful treatment of rattlesnake bites is rapid treatment.  My condolences for the lost of your Mule, and I hope this information helps prevent future tragedies from snake bites.
~ Rachel Wilson, DVM

Dr. Wilson is a native of Dripping Springs, Texas. She attended Texas A&M for her undergraduate studies in Biomedical Science and obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in the Spring of 2010. She has particular interests in lameness, internal medicine and surgery. Dr. Wilson joined Austin Equine as our first veterinary intern. She is member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Wilson is thrilled to be living in the Austin area. Away from work, she is an avid rider and owns Malcolm, a twenty-one year old Thoroughbred.http://www.austinequine.com/

If you have a question you would like to ASK A VET, please email laurie@actha.us with the subject: 'ask a vet'

Platinum Medal Achieved by Debbie Ayres

Congratulations to Debbie Ayres of Texas for achieving the ACTHA Platinum Medal!! This is a wonderful achievement for Debbie, of which only fewer than ten of our members have achieved - all time! Debbie and her horse, Smokin Mino, are currently ranked #1 in the state of Texas and 3rd in the nation. This achievement awards a medal and a full one year's supply of Platinum Performance Equine Supplement. Past medal achievements for Debbie and Smokie include Gold (Chinks by Rodeo, ETC, which Debbie is wearing in the photo), Silver (Custom Silver Bridle Conchos) and Bronze (ACTHA Vest). Way to go, Debbie and Smokie!!

Member of the Week: Allison Denny Slaughter

Allison's Nomination: "Allison is not only a gifted rider but she is also a very sweet little girl that always seems grateful for the prizes she wins. She comes and thanks me for having the rides and for whatever is in her gift bag. Thank you for allowing me the pleasure of nominating such a lovely young lady, she is a very gifted and talented rider. And to make a special package, she is also very sweet. I love to see her and her mother come to my rides." This was the glowing nomination submitted in behalf of Allison. 

When Allison's mother Dianne was contacted regarding Allison's nomination she commented, "Thank you so much! Allison has an amazing horse, we have so much to tell! Her horse, Stormy, is gorgeous and was given to us by a kind elderly gentlemen that wanted Stormy to have a great home. I have really wanted to tell ACTHA thank you for the great venue that my daughter and I can enjoy together, riding side by side, on the beautiful trails. We love ACTHA then and now."  Congratulations from all of us at ACTHA, Allison!

All nominations for 'Member of the Week' are anonymous. A nominee may be a rider, ride host, volunteer or judge. If you would like to nominate a member of the week, click here:http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this great event!www.mollyscustomsilver.com

Kathie Norman and Dulce Achieve Platinum Medal

Kathie Norman and Handy Dulce Bar (Dulce), riding in the Pleasure Division, currently rank #1 in the nation, #1 in the state of Arkansas, #1 in the state of Texas, and have most recently achieved the honor of ACTHA's Platinum Medal. This achievement awards a medal and a full one year's supply of Platinum Performance Equine Supplement. Past medal achievements for the team include Gold (Chinks by Rodeo, ETC), Silver (Custom Silver Bridle Conchos) and Bronze (ACTHA Vest). Congratulations to this outstanding team who have worked very hard to achieve these accomplishments. Way to go!! We are very proud of you!!

Kathie Norman resides in Texas.

ACTHA's Tom Scrima and Mountain Horse USA

Announcing Stagecoach West as Newest ACTHA Sponsor!

For immediate release
Austin Texas 4/2/13
For more information
Laurie Harris
Director of Sponsor Relations
laurie@actha.us

ACTHA GETS ON THE STAGE....

The Stagecoach West that is!

 

THE AMERICAN COMPETITIVE TRAIL HORSE ASSOCIATION WELCOMES THE NEWEST SPONSOR TO THE ACTHA FAMILY, The Stagecoach West.  "We couldn't be more excited for our members! The Stagecoach West offers virtually unlimited shopping opportunities. They are going to go wild over this latest addition to our already impressive lineup of sponsors. Even more incredible The Stagecoach West will be participating in both of ACTHA's discount programs, ACTHA BUCKS and The Shop Anytime You Want program. These programs offer members discounts of 15% to 25% off of selected items at The Stagecoach West. This is in addition to their already very fair pricing. Jack Peacock, the owner of The Stagecoach West, has capped off his dramatic sponsorship with an offer to support a Medal Award when one comes available. I couldn't be more pleased or proud to have a sponsor like The Stagecoach West. With 31 years in the business The Stagecoach West can go far in  making our members happy." says Laurie Harris of ACTHA.

According to Jack Peacock "We've been watching ACTHA for sometime. Their growth and depth of entry into the trail horse market is pretty impressive. We like their approach to sponsors. They don't ask for cash contributions when participating in the discount programs. They want every penny of savings to go to their members. That allows us to cut prices, even with our slim margins.

It makes us look good, their members are happy and ACTHA gets more customers as a result. I remember meeting Tom at a Equestrian Affaire about 4 years ago. ACTHA was just getting started. His predictions he shared have indeed come true. But the final kicker was their cause and what they have already done for equine charities. Getting horses back into service is good for everybody."
For sponsorship information you are welcomed to contact Laurie above.

About The Stagecoach West
For over 25 years we have been a leading retailer of Equine Supplies, Trail Riding Gear, Western Wear and Unique Gifts for the Whole Family. The Stagecoach West will continue to offer exceptional service, outstanding pricing and quality products at the large retail showroom in Irving New York, This website will offer that same value to the vast online horse riding community.
We have partnered with many major manufactures of quality products to offer you the best values in durability, style, comfort and pricing unmatched by any other online retailer. Also, as we seek out new items from innovative companies, you can be sure that The Stagecoach West will bring those products to you quickly and our knowledgeable staff will be ready to offer the best advice for a responsible purchasing decision. www.stagecoachwest.com

About ACTHAThe association conducts Competitive Trail Challenges (CTCs) throughout the USA and Canada involving 6-8 miles of trail, with judged obstacles designated on each mile of the ride. Obstacles are mostly natural, taking place on private farms, ranches or public parks accessible to horses. An ACTHA CTC is a great way to raise funds for horse clubs, non-profit organizations, rescues or private farms. ACTHA maintains a mission of charity and gives a portion of each rider entry fee to a non-profit designated by the particular ride host. Additionally, ACTHA has traditionally held an annual national benefit ride with all proceeds being allocated to a specific cause or charity. www.actha.us

For ACTHA sponsorship information you are welcomed to contact Laurie Harris at laurie@
actha.us.

Mountain Horse® Adopts ACTHA’s Most Coveted Medal Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Austin, Texas (April 9, 2013) 

We are proud to announce that Mountain Horse® will be the “Official Jacket of the American Competitive Trail Horse Association” for the 2013/2014 competitive season. The partnership combines the passion of thousands upon thousands of ACTHA members nationally with Mountain Horse’s expertise in designing and bringing innovative, technical riding apparel and footwear to equestrians worldwide. Ann Kinsey, Head of Operations for ACTHA, states “We are blown away by Mountain Horse’s generosity in helping us with our cause. Their products are quite simply the most elite I’ve ever seen, yet so practical, and oozing with pure quality!”

This year, Mountain Horse® has selected to sponsor the Diamond in the Rough Award. This award goes to horses coming from a rescue category that compete in ACTHA events, a cause very close to Mountain Horse’s heart. “It is an honor to work with and support a group that is so in-touch with the needs of equines everywhere and strives to meet those needs,” states Sharon Gladski, Mountain Horse USA Brand Manager.

Kinsey further states, “It’s the award most dear to me out of the seven accomplishments an ACTHA registered horse and rider team can attain. It goes to the very core of our hopes to create and encourage full equine employment for able-bodied horses. It’s a grand undertaking and every sponsor, member, ride host and thousands upon thousands of volunteers help make this goal very attainable.   We thank sponsors like Mountain Horse® for supporting our cause. Full equine employment has a ripple effect throughout the entire industry!”

Mountain Horse® has also been extremely generous – over $10,000 of their stunning jackets will be given to Diamond in the Rough winners starting immediately, and if that weren’t enough, they are making their sponsor donation retroactive – so even past winners will receive their ever-so-distinctive jacket!

“I can guarantee you one thing,” states Tom Scrima of ACTHA, “there are going to be some very proud rescue horses carrying their owners wearing these lovely jackets! Our hope, of course, is that more rescue horses will find their way to the fun that only a unique ACTHA ride can give. Mountain Horse’s bold and generous gesture will certainly grab our members’ attention!”

About Mountain Horse®: Mountain Horse® is a Swedish company that exclusively designs and manufactures high-quality equestrian wear. For over 25 years, Mountain Horse® designers have focused on engineering superior apparel and footwear and bringing their products to riders around the globe. To learn more about Mountain Horse® visit www.MountainHorseUSA.com.

About ACTHA: Six Miles. Six Natural Obstacles. Six Judges. ACTHA's Mission is to provide an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse, granting them the recognition they so richly deserve. Now in their 5th year, over 1,000 ACTHA competitions have been held all over the United States and Canada. For more info about ACTHA visit www.ACTHA.us
To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse and granting them the recognition they so richly deserve.

To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction.

To create and enable humane treatment options and employment for horses in need.

For More Information Contact:
Laurie Harris
877-99-ACTHA (22842)
laurie@actha.us

This is my Trail Horse: Exactly What I Wanted

By Cyndie Pittman

I always wanted an Appaloosa as a kid.  It wasn’t until I was 50 years old before my dream came true. In 2001 I found Hawk, a Snowcap Appaloosa...exactly what I wanted.  Once I got Hawk I wanted to raise a baby, really wanted a Warmblood.  In 2011 I heard about a little 7 month old Oldenburg colt, we named PShadrach, who had some health issues.  The owner had been advised to put him down but since he was the first offspring of his sire he was saved and I got him for a dollar…exactly what I wanted.  Then I always wanted to have a baby born on our place because I wanted the experience of a newborn.  In 2012 we adopted a preggers jenny who in Oct 2012 gave birth to a beautiful tri-colored jenny; we named Molly…exactly what I wanted.  We also have a 29 year old Thoroughbred gelding, Joey.  We adopted him when his owner died and was abandoned.  All these horses are rescues.  Hawk I did pay for but I got him out of a bad situation.  I wanted babies because I saw so many horses with issues of not being socialized and no being desensitized.  I just felt I could make them just what I wanted.

Hawk has a big brother personality.  He likes to pick at his new buddies; sniffing to get a kick or a squeal.  I try to run ramrod to keep him (me) from getting kicked.  It has taken me twelve years to grow Hawk to a wonderful trail horse.  When I began trail obstacles we were lucky to get a score.  I had to teach me to teach him to slow down and listen to me.  We began in Northern Virginia participating in their Crystal Crown Series; a 10 mile six obstacle, 5 ride competition.  I have learned patience from him.  Hawk has Western, English, and Dressage in his resume.  As of last year, 2012, we began picking up blues and reds in ACTHA CTCs.  We dropped dressage, just doing better in ACTHA.  As of today we have placed first in the State of Florida, and now running second in FL and about 2 points from tying for first, again.  I am so proud of him.  Hawk and I are a team…exactly what I wanted.

PShad came to us so sick.  I was so afraid we have to put him down.  He had big knees, long legs, big ole; ugly head, pencil neck.  I was so in love.  He was on stall rest for months,  injections twice a day, poked and prodded, ate his feed with bute and SMZ as if it were ice cream; stood quietly for wound cleaning and fresh wraps.  Instead of hating people he saw us helping and chose to be loving.  Today he is 3 years old and 17 hands and a pleasure to work.  Trey Young used PShad in a colt starting clinic.  In an hour Trey was standing on PShad’s cracking a bull whip with a foot cocked, herding cows and executing flying lead changes.  PShad will be entering ACTHA CTC in the fall.  When Molly had her first trim he stood with her in his stall, nibbled on her ear to calm her during the process.

Joey (pictured on the left) is the best heard boss.  Joey rules with a kind hoof.  Joey and Hawk have done a fine job raising PShad.  PShad has mixed things up for the older boys and keeps them on their toes.  The two older boys have been very tolerant of this young horse.  I have a great little heard of equines…just what I wanted. 

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse".  Cyndie will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by emailing laurie@actha.us

Member of the Week: Laura Fitzgerald

Laura Fitzgerald is my nomination for ACTHA's member of the week. Laura has been a member since 2010 and has been to at least 15 ACTHA rides on her horse Sonny. Laura always comes with a smile, she always finds the good in every event, whether it's raining or cold, she is always laughing. She is supportive of her ride host, and does all she can to help keep things running smooth. Laura competes in Open, but she does her best to help encourage and support all riders, especially the newbies. At camp she is a ball, a constant life of the party. She's the one who is boisterous, fun loving, and turns the event into a party. She is a delight ride with, and the first one to turn a touchy situation into something fun. She keeps the judges in stitches and you can hear her laughing and enjoying every minute on the trail. Everyone around her has a good time. If anyone deserves this mention, it's Laura!

All nominations for 'Member of the Week' are anonymous. A nominee may be a rider, ride host, volunteer or judge. If you would like to nominate a member of the week, click here:http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this great event!www.mollyscustomsilver.com

This is my Trail Horse: Bandit, the Boy Who Only Wants to Make You Laugh

By Tanya Ragone

Seven years ago while working at a Performance Horse barn, three year old Friendly Bandit Bar, an American Quarter Horse, came up for sale. I never even considered him as a horse that I would love to own.  This sassy fellow was a piggy in his stall and had just started his training. To me he was the Wal-mart greeter of the alley way.  His stall was the first one through the walkway door and he seemed way too interested in greeting people and being a clown.

Yup, I bought him. 

Bandit and I tried showing in reining for a couple years and we both new from the start this was not a happy match.  He was so resistant, nervous and down right unhappy.  I’d get so frustrated with him.  I was told to keep going.  “Push him.  Push him.”  I was told it was my fault why he was the way he was in the show ring. But always in the back of my mind I felt he was just not happy, and to me an unhappy horse in his job was the worst thing to have.

I needed to see if it was my riding that was making Bandit kick out during lead changes and look so worried.  So my plan was to have my trainer ride Bandit exclusively for 6 months and then show him.  I stayed completely off his back.  The day of the big show came and low and behold, Bandit kicked out at lead change, started raising his head and stopping completely in the middle of the ring and refusing to spin for my trainer.  This may seem terrible to say but I was SO happy!

I took Bandit home that night!  I turned him out with other horses for a year.  No riding.  Time for him to learn that there was life outside of a stall and an enclosed arena.  That was the magical moment that his personality started to shine again. All his personality came back. The clown, the boy who only wants to make you laugh, Mr. Inquisitive, the horse that loves children, the horse that truly loves people.

In May of 2010 Bandit and I signed up with ACTHA.  With no trail riding experience we attended our first trail ride in July of 2010 at The Flying Bee Ranch in McGrew, Nebraska.  Bandit took fourth place and did every obstacle.  I was so proud of him. That was the day I fell in love with my horse.  We had found what we’d been looking for!  ACTHA was what Bandit and I both needed.

Bandit has taken me to places I never could have gone without him.  He has changed my life and he is my best friend. We truly get each other. Bandit did one of the first TV commercials for ACTHA. He is a bronze medal winner and was ranked #1 for the state of Nebraska in the Open division for the 2011-2012 ACTHA season.  He also treated me to the reality TV world when he became a finalist on America’s Favorite Trail Horse. Bandit is my once in a life time horse.  I am so blessed and grateful to have such a wonderful partner.

Many thanks to Durvet Apple Wormer for sponsoring "This is my Trail Horse". Bandit will receive a gift from Durvet. www.applewormer.com

Share your "This is My Trailhorse" story with ACTHA Facebook by emailing laurie@actha.us

Member of the Week: Val Delana

Val has been part of the backbone of ACTHA since its beginning. As a long standing member, she participated in ACTHA's reality television series, America's Favorite Trail Horse, and made it to the top 100 nationally. Val continues to participate strongly and supports ACTHA until this day. If she's not holding outstanding rides that consistently get the highest scores from riders, she's on top of one of her beautiful Tennessee Walkers competing herself. Val has 50 ACTHA rides to her credit as well as having signed up to host 9 rides, most of them already completed. She has been an inspiration to all who meet her with her positive outlook, she is motivating and always willing to help share her extensive knowledge and experience. She always demonstrates good sportsmanship, offers to help and contribute without making things complicated, and is considered a treasure by all who know her. It's people like Val Delana who will keep the trail horse recognized as a valuable asset to the equine industry, the world needs more people like her!

In the photo above Val is riding Missy Thundercloud, a beautiful black Tennessee Walking Horse.

All nominations for 'Member of the Week' are anonymous. A nominee may be a rider, ride host, volunteer or judge. If you would like to nominate a member of the week, click here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF

Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this great event! www.mollyscustomsilver.com