Miles of Smiles

2012 Event calendar shaping up nicely!

2012-03-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

· CTR- Competitive Trail Ride (competition over long distance for placing, mileage, use of BCCTRA rule book)

· SR – Schooling ride (introductory clinic to competitive trail riding)

· PR – Pleasure ride (recreational ride with education components, mileage)

· RMW – Ride manager workshop (how to host a CTR workshop)

· AGM – Annual General Meeting

· TR - Training Ride - open to members and non-members (fee may apply to non members)

Date	Type	Level[1]	Ride name or location	Ride manager(s)	Phone	Email
Feb 18	RMW		Balme Residence	Shelley Balme	250 743 6192	obalme@seaside.net
Feb 18	TR	Level 2 speed	Fish Hatchery Big Qualicum River	Nancy Gourlay	250 954 3941	nancy@cheesworks.ca
March 17	TR		Central Island area Location Englishman River	Nancy Gourlay	250 954 3941	nancy@cheesworks.ca
April 21	TR		Central Island area Location TBA	Nancy Gourlay	250 954 3941	nancy@cheesworks.ca
May 19	TR		Central Island Area Location TBA	Nancy Gourlay	250 954 3941	nancy@cheesworks.ca
May 26 & 27	SR		TBA	Tammy Mercer	250 335-3390	ridingforfreedomranch@shaw.ca
June16	TR	2	Chemainus Ride Site	Shelley Balme	250 743 6192	obalme@seaside.net
June 23	TR	2	Chemainus Ride Site	Shelley Balme	250 743 6192	obalme@seaside.net
June 30	CTR	1,2,3	Twin Creeks	Shelley Balme	250 743 6192	obalme@seaside.net

July 14	CTR		Sunset CTR	Myrna Thompson	250-317-8347	myrnathompsonis@hotmail.com
July 27,28,29	CTR	1,2,3	Morning Star	Nancy Gourlay	250 954 3941	nancy@cheesworks.ca
August 10-11	CTR	123	Cariboo Plateau	Joanne Macaluso	250-456-7320	joanne_macaluso@bcit.ca

Sept 29-30	CTR		Chemainus River CTR	Shelley Balme	250 743 6192	obalme@seaside.net
Oct 20	AGM	N/A	Best Western Chilliwack BC	Tammy Mercer	250-335-3390	ridingforfreedomranch@shaw.ca

[1] Level one rides are up to 20 miles at 5 mph, level 2 rides are between 20-30 miles at 6 mph and level 3 rides are between 30-40 miles at 6.5-7 mph.

This year’s Bursary recipient Announced

2012-03-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

By Tammy Mercer, BCCTRA President

In 2010 the BCCTRA partnered with the University of Saskatchewan - Western College of Veterinary Medicine to provide financial support to it student. The BCCTRA committed to an annual bursary of $500 for a three year term. 2012 marks the second year of our three year commitment.

BCCTRA has just been advised by the Western College of Veterinary Medicine that this year’s recipient of the BCCTRA $500 Bursary is Walker Watt. Walker is a student entering his 4th year of the Department of Veterinarian Medicine program, and is from the province of Alberta.

The department Dean, Douglas A. Freeman, writes to BCCTRA, “On behalf of the College, I wish to express my sincere appreciation for your generous support of our Bursary program. All forms of financial assistance are sought after and greatly valued by our students.”

I think as all BCCTRA members we should feel a sense of pride in contributing to the development of our future Equine Veterinarians. Congratulations to Walker Watt for his commitment to Equine Studies.

Advertising Rates

2012-03-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Advertising Rates for BC Competitive Trail Riding

Interested in advertising your products or services in the BCCTRA “On the Trail” and our website and Blog “Miles of Smiles”? Newsletters are printed two times a year and blog is located at: http://bcctra.blogspot.com/ .

Benefits of advertising?

Reach equestrian trail riders throughout BC

Promote products that are used by people who ride trails and travel with their horses

Promote your services to provide fitness, nutrional and equine health, travel and other services

Rates:

Business card (2x3 size) $15 per issue or $25 per year

¼ page ad $25 per issue or $45 per year

½ page ad $50 per issue or $90 per year

Full page ad $100 per issue or $175 per year

Classified ads (max 50 wds) $10 per issue, with photo $15 per issue

Website links – on Website and blog (annual fee) $30 per year

All ads are should be sent, ready for release, to the newsletter editor – Nicole Vaugeois via email to nicoleathome(AT)shaw(DOT)ca Call 250-245-4405 for more information

Training begins!

2012-02-26T19:34:00.002-08:00

By Nancy Gourlay

Four riders showed up at the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery for a nice, easyride out to Horne Lake and back. We started out and finished up together although we took turns at trotting for a while, (at individual comfortable paces). We took a break at the lake side and shared some bran muffins withthe horses (brrr - cool wind) then came back along the beautiful banks off the river. We met another rider near the end who's keen to join our activities - bonus! It's a great horse-friendly place to have a work-out. We covered about 13 miles in under 3 hours.

Call for spring newsletter submissions - March 31 deadline

2012-02-25T19:14:00.004-08:00

It is time to think about our spring newsletter. The deadline for submissions is March 31st - to Nicole Vaugeois at nicoleathome(at)shaw(dot)ca

Not sure what to submit? How about some of these ideas?

1. A photo of your horse(s) - in their winter woolies, out on your property, doing something new, sporting some new tack, or introduce your new horse to the members with a brief description of them!

2. A profile of you as a rider - tell us about yourself, when you started to ride, who you ride, where you ride, how you ride and what you love about CTR.

3. A description of your favorite trail - describe it, where is it, why do you like it, how far can someone go on the trails, are there access points, maps or issues with access?

4. An article - help educate the membership about anything related to CTR - horse health, how you train and condition your horse, tips on how to prepare for CTR, travel or camping tips, or the latest gear.

5. Gear and Gadgets - take a photo or give us a link on a new gadget that would benefit a CTR rider - why is it helpful and for what?

6. An advertisement - BCCTRA has a strong and loyal readership - consider submitting an advertisement to help raise money for the club while gaining exposure to the trail riding community on the website, blog and newsletter. Kay will send the updated rates to members soon.

7. Ride managers - submit an update on your ride to raise interest in where it will be, what will be new, updates on ride forms, etc.

8. Directors and officers - submit any news on BCCTRA for your region or area of work.
Make sure all submissions are sent ready to go. Send in a word file or in email with photos as JPEG files.

Thanks everyone,
Nicole Vaugeois
PR Director, BCCTRA

CTR trails of the past

2012-02-19T16:59:00.000-08:00

Today I headed out with a couple of members of BCCTRA to explore some of the old trails in Spruston, just south of Nanaimo. Marci Leighton used to manage a CTR on these trails in the 1990's and Carolyn Grace, a newbie to the island - is keen to locate new trails to ride. It was a typical spring day - a bit cool in the shade - but it was great to get out. I thought bringing Marci would be an added bonus (besides the fact she is a hoot) because she'd have great knowledge of the trails. So, I didn't even turn on my GPS (not like me!). Turns out, we explored a bit and hit a few dead ends - and luckily Carolyn's phone directed us back to the trailers!

The Spruston Trails have lots of potential for equestrian use. Lynn de Vries, another BCCTRA member has spent hours in the past, according to Marci, clearing the trails in the area. I know Lynn is a big advocate of using or losing our trail systems - so get out and use these ones!

If folks want to get out to Spruston sometime - take Spruston Road off the main island highway south of Nanaimo. Stay left when it branches out and stop when you come to an old log sort, where you can turn around and park your trailer. There is lots of debris around from party crowds - so watch for glass. You can then head back a bit and start exploring from there. Here is a pdf map of the area if this helps - and our GPS was working fine too.

Ride managers workshop a success

2012-02-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

On February 18 from 5 to 9, nine dedicated BCCTRA members met at Shelley Balme's place in Cobble Hill to discuss ride management. The group included some of the club's most experienced and new ride managers and a number of individuals that have helped out at past rides in various forms. We enjoyed the club's first great potluck of the year while we chatted about all sorts of topics.

The core of BCCTRA's activities is in the organization and hosting of competitive trail rides. Each year, a series of events is announced taking place all over the province. The willingness of ride managers to devote countless hours to host a ride is something we all need to continuously recognize. As Nancy Gourlay said at the meeting "it can be consuming"! But, as Barbara Smith pointed out very clearly at the event "there are numerous benefits to organizing a ride - it helps create and promote trails, it puts our club in the spotlight to land managers, and you get to meet and interact with so many BCCTRA members". Or as I found out when I first hosted a ride - I learned so much more about the sport as I had to study it from the inside out. It definately made me a stronger competitor. But the best part for me - was the fun of working together with people to mark trails, set up camp, put together ride packages over wine, and mingle at the site with a campfire and Dan Gogo singing to the riders.

The group at the meeting talked about lots of things like how we can promote the rides, build benefits for members, mark and map trails, take care of risk management issues, gain access to trails from property owners, secure sponsorship and come in on budget. There were plenty of great ideas shared and I am sure we will see many of these ideas put into practice this year.

This year the ride series is shaping up to look very strong - with four rides already announced for the island and two on the mainland. There are also a series of training rides to get folks out and about and to allow new members to learn more about the sport while riding. Check out the BCCTRA events calendar for more. If you ever want to learn more about what it takes to put on a ride - check out the ride manager manual on the BCCTRA site as well. And, think about getting together some of your buddies to host a new event!

And, when you are at the next ride - make sure to thank the ride managers and their volunteers for the time they put in to creating a great experience just for you. If we don't have these folks on board working hard behind the scenes - we won't have a sport and we'd lose access to the great trails they provide for equestrian users.

Thanks those who came last night and to Shelley Balme for hosting us at your place.

Presidents New Year Message

2012-01-03T19:28:00.000-08:00

The year 2011 is drawing to a close and very soon families will be gathering, eggnog will be flowing, the tree will be up and all the lights and festivities of the season will begin. It is also a time to reflect on the year we are leaving behind and the year that lies ahead.

When I look back on the year 2011, we as a club have had successes, not too many challenges and many reasons to be looking forward to the year 2012. We hosted six CTR’s and one Pleasure Ride, we had two new Ride Managers (Kerri-Lynne Wilson & Nancy Gourlay) and two new Ride Sites (Morningstar - Parksville & Sunset - Kelowna). We raised over $800 with 50/50 draws and raffles and we hosted a very successful Equine Educational Series in the Spring. We had a moderately attended AGM and once again we had a booth at the Mane Event in Chilliwack. Areas we can improve on are, educational and social events and your new Executive is already working on those issues and others to make the year 2012 a success.

We also lost some of our loved ones this past year, both human and furry. My heart goes out to anyone who has suffered such a loss. I like many lost one of my precious “fur friends” this past year and although it cannot be on the same scale as losing a human friend or partner, it is a loss. My personal hope is that year 2012 will be a shinier year for all of us, one that treats us very well.

On a happier note, I am very excited that Joanne Schneider and Jo Hull-Sykes have stepped up to the position of Event Co-ordinators. I know these fine ladies will source out many opportunities for us to promote and showcase our club and our sport throughout the province. We have returning Directors and some new faces to the board and I look forward to their fresh ideas and enthusiasm as we move forward in 2012. At this time I would like to thank those that are leaving our board Mary Carr, Kerri-Lynne Wilson and Karen Eigler, all of who have contributed many years service. We will miss them on our monthly conference calls but look forward to seeing them on the trail, managing rides or at social events.

As we start a new year, I have asked all our board members to give a short bio about their lives as a way of introducing themselves. Also, so you as members can come to know us and understand we are here to represent you, our members, and reiterate that your involvement in our club is critical to its success!

As I look forward to the year 2012, I have decided the song by Johnny Reid “Today I’m gonna change the world” will become my new mantra, if you have never heard the song I encourage you to listen, the words are inspirational and I especially like the bagpipes must be my curling background! From my home to yours, I wish all the best to you and your family during the holiday season and into the New Year.

2011 Year End Results

2011-12-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

High Point Overall

same horse & rider accumulated points ( score x level ridden)

1st Place - Tammy Mercer on WRA Dark Diablo (2659)

2^nd Place - Nicole Vaugeois on El Nino (2592.5)

3rd Place – Diane Prinsen on Zinfandel Macho Dude (2238.5)

4th Place – Kevin Gourlay on Thunderbolt (2292)

5th Place – Kylee Paull on Veritaz (1702)

6^th Place – Del Lenk on Lyndales Bambaya (1666)

7^th Place – Jo Hull-Sykes on Maverick (1656)

8^th Place – Lori Bezwa on Trubadors Al Jazaan (1629)

9^th Place – Nicola Maughn on Bart (1442.5)

10^th Place - Katie Schoor on Cody (1171)

High Point Heavy Weight Division

same horse & rider accumulated points ( score plus mileage x level ridden)

1st Place - Diane Prinsen on Zinfandel Macho Dude (2522.55)

2^nd Place - Tammy Mercer on WRA Dark Diablo (2295.2)

3^rd Place - Del Lenk on Lyndales Bambaya (1818)

4^th Place - Jo Hull-Sykes on Maverick (1795)

5^th Place - Blane Hill on KF Firenaska (1254)

6^th Place - Lisa Beeston on Renovare Billy Lady Wies (1177)

7^th Place - Debbie Cole on Awesome Dean (1148.5)

8^th Place - Christina Young on JMV Maestro UB (912.5)

9^th Place - Nellie Roukema on Rhythm Bay (880.05)

10^th Place - Heather Bradshaw on H Thunder ‘n Lightning (643.2)

High Point Light Weight Division

same horse & rider accumulated points ( score plus mileage x level ridden)

1st Place – Nicole Vaugeois on El Nino (2866.7)

2^nd Place – Lori Bezwa on Trubadors Al Jazaan (1861.05)

3^rd Place – Kylee Paull on Veritaz (1861)

4^th Place – Nicola Maugh on Bart (1614.55)

5^th Place – Miki Dekel on Kool Hand Luke (1149.05)

6^th Place – Ann Mackay on Dante (1015.05)

7^th Place – Joanne Macaluso on Cinco (991.05)

8^th Place – June Melhish on White Sox Victor (967.05)

9^th Place – Phyllis Payne on Northern Flaire (623.5)

10^th Place – Bev Lewis on Kira (618.5)

High Point Junior Weight Division

same horse & rider accumulated points ( score plus mileage x level ridden)

1st Place – Kevin Gourlay on Thunderbolt (2505)

2^nd Place – Katie Schoor on Cody (1271)

Mileage Awards

1,000 miles Bruce Christison

500 miles Phyllis Payne & Nicole Vaugeois

300 miles Katie Schoor, Kerri-Lynne Wilson & Lynn De Vries

250 miles Jo Hull-Sykes

100 miles Debbie Cole, Joni Dewitt , Kevin Gourlay, Nicola Maughn, Kylee Paull and Diane Prinsen,

Lil Schmidt High Mileage Award

Tammy Mercer and Nicole Vaugeios (each with 117.6 miles)

Gordon Sydney Memorial Award Nicole Vaugeois

Volunteer of the Year Barb Smith

Sportsperson of the Year Joanne Macaluso

Rookie of the Year Award Kylee Paull

BREED HIGH POINT AWARDS:

APPALOOSA: Kool Hand Luke owned by Miki Dekel (1056.75)

ARABIAN: WRA Dark Diablo owned by Tammy Mercer (2659)

PART-BRED ARABIAN: KF Firenaska owned by Blane Hill (1144)

CANADIAN: Renovare Billy Lady Wies owned by Lisa Beeston (1090)

MORGAN: JMV Maestro UB owned by Christina Young (1135)

MORAB: no horse eligible

GAITED: no horse eligible

GRADE: El Nino owned by Nicole Vaugeois (2592.5)

QUARTER-HORSE: Zinfandel Macho Dude owned by Diane Prinsen (2238.5)

Competitive Trail Ride of the Year

(Tied) Morningstar and Sasquatch Scurry

Senior Horse of the Year Award

No nomination submitted

Combined Mileage Incentive Award

Lori Bewza

Best Young Horse of the Year Award

WRA Dark Diablo owned by Tammy Mercer

The Sasquatch Scurry—submitted by Karen Eigler

2011-11-15T19:31:00.000-08:00

The Sasquatch Scurry Competitive Trail Ride was recently held at John and Karen Eigler’s farm in the Dove Creek area. On October 1^st and 2^nd, twenty three riders participated in this event, many travelling up from Nanaimo and Victoria, and several riders from the Comox Valley. The trails selected, were easy, well-groomed and well marked making this CTR a welcome competition for the end of the season and for those who are just beginning to learn about the sport of competitive trail. The ride, Sasquatch Scurry is named after their rides mascot, a small stuffy Sasquatch, that likes to hide somewhere on the trail during the competition. Not only does the rider need to concentrate on the marked trail they are following, but they must keep their eyes peeled to find the elusive little Yeti and report back to the Eigler’s on his whereabouts and other specific details. Adding some fun and humour into this event is a great way to enhance the already popular sport of competitive trail riding.

The competitive trail ride is a sanctioned event of BC Competitive Trail Riders’ Association, and is a non-profit equine sport. At each BC ride, the top six riders in each level and weight division receive a beautiful rosette ribbon. In addition to ribbons, CTR Ride Managers, generally try to have special prizes for all their riders and this is why they appreciate the support of local business’ that donate items for the prize table, or help by giving store discounts towards quantities of specific items. The Sasquatch Scurry is no different, and the Eigler’s are very thankful for their sponsor’s at South Country Feed, Brazen Sportswear/Hitec Printing, The Dollar Store, Shar-Kare, Curves For Women, Christy’s Saddlebags Consignment, and Zellers’. Thanks to the many volunteers and especially our vets for their time, Dr. Peter Parke, Dr. Yaela Gluesteen and Dr. Caroline Horsley. Thanks also to the neighbouring landowners and CV Regional District for allowing the riders to use specific trails for this event. For more information on competitive trail rides and events planned for 2012, riders should keep checking the BCCTRA website at www.bcctra.ca or contact their BCCTRA Area Director for more details.

The Unsung Heros by Lynn de Vries

2011-11-11T19:36:00.000-08:00

Trails are the main stay of our very existence as trail riders. If you are luck like I am, you will have a dedicated trail volunteer in your area. If you ride the areas of Grace Road in Chemainus, Spruston Road in Nanaimo, or Copper Canyon, more than likely you are riding on trails that have been kept open by Bruce Christison. I first met Bruce way back in the early 90’s where we both competed in competitive trail. I fell I love with the riding areas of Grace Road/Chemainus River and I would marvel at the dedication Bruce put into trail maintenance - all volunteer.

A couple of years ago, when Bruce no longer had a horse, he would still dedicate his time to ensuring the trails were open. It pretty well broke my heart to see some of the trails get bushier and some vanish all together. So, two years ago, with two good horses of my own, I offered Bruce to ride Sweet Georgia. Now with purpose and pleasure, over the past two years I am grateful for the time and effort Bruce puts into trail maintenance. He has a serious pair of loppers he carries on the back of the saddle - and nothing stands in this man’s way when it comes to trails. There were a couple of special trails I asked him to open up, and he did. If you rode the BCCTRA Chemainus Ride this year, you would have been on several of his re-established trails. One day I asked him to walk a trail with me up at Spruston Road. It was an old bike trail that had little use due to a couple of big windfalls. It was time to cut them out this year and so off we went, him packing the power saw and me packing the axe. Sure enough, we came to the big fir that was hung up high and as luck would have it, the saw got pinched. Undaunted by that, the fir tree was beaten to death with the axe and the power saw finally fell out. I smile when I ride by and see the tree with the axe and saw cuts. If not working on the trails from horseback, Bruce ventures out with his friends on ATV’s and ensures they are clear. My hat goes off to this quiet hard working dedicated man - I hope you are as luck as I am. Thanks Bruce.

A post note - congratulations to Bruce on his 1000 mile award this year!!!

Morningstar ride summary by Nancy Gourlay

2011-07-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

The first CTR at Morningstar Farm on July 29, 30, 31 was a success with 23 riders participating in 17-mile level 1, and 24-mile level 2 rides. The weather had been unseasonably wet in July so we had a few “bogs” that challenged horse’s shoes and boots, but kept our farrier busy! Many new trails had been created for this event which took riders through heritage farm land, creek sides, around the airport and through various forests – some quite scary. We were also treated to a wine & cheese tasting by the artisans themselves and farmer Clarke gave everyone a tour of a working dairy farm. The pleasure ride saw local riders joining to check out the new trail system and a good time was had by all. We hope to do it again next year.

HELP OUR PREZ WIN!!!!!

2011-05-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

OK everybody, help Tammy Mercer (our Prez) win a nice horse package for her essay. If you are on Facebook go to: http://www.facebook.com/HorseCoupons#!/photo.php?fbid=223442841000949&set=a.217381391607094.63170.152903214721579&type=1&theater and click on Tammy's picture (bottom left - she has a black horse) and click LIKE button.

If you don't see a LIKE button follow these directions:
ATTN: Horse Coupon Book fans!!! The "Gift of the Horse" contest is in full swing and our contestants would love your help! Do you think this is Jonathan Field's biggest fan? If you want to see this essay make it to the Semi-Finals, click "Like" when you're finished reading. If you’re new to HCB and do not see the word “Like” below, simply go to our wall first (www.Facebook.com/HorseCoupons) and click the big “Like” button at the top of the page to become a fan!

Giddy-Up Gogo - Volunteers

2011-05-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

If you can't ride at this upcoming CTR perhaps you would like to come out and volunteer? We really appreciate people with horse skills helping out!

We need 2 or 3 drag riders (last horse out to follow the trail to make sure no one is injured or lost etc.). The drag riders would have to be competent trail riders with horses capable of riding up to 40 miles but slower than race pace.

We also need P&R crews etc.

We would need a firm commitment to time available and positions. Many people have offered pending their work schedules/camping schedules etc but we can't have people backing out last minute because they are called in to work.

Volunteers would need to be available on Friday June 10 at around 2pm for a volunteer orientation to get prepared for duties. Vet checks begin at 4pm.

Please email me if you can volunteer.
kerter@shaw.ca

Giddy-Up Gogo CTR Now 30% FULL

2011-04-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

To avoid disappointment, send in your application forms for Giddy-Up Gogo CTR and Pleasure Ride. The CTR is now 30% full and we still have 7 weeks until the competition. The CTR is capped at 40 riders.

The only way to confirm your spot is to send in your application with signed waiver and cheque.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Any questions contact me at kerter@shaw.ca

Kerri-Lynne

BCCTRA Training Ride - March 27

2011-04-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

By Joanne Schneider

Four members of BCCTRA participated in the 2 – 2.25 hour ride on Sunday March 27. There were challenges for both rider and horse. The first hour of the ride was through more wider trails giving both riders and horses a chance to settle in. Still in that first hour we went under a train tressle, through a creek , up a long gradual road where we took the opportunity to do some trotting, we crossed two foot bridges, past a large culvert and went through a muddy goey scarry large puddle. All the horses were great. After following more trails through the bush we crossed out onto the logging road and began the second half of the ride – which in my opinion was the funnest part. Mostly uphill , cross a nice clear shallow stream, up a bank and then up and up. Weaving through trees, watching our knees, ducking around low limbs, up a long 1.5’ wide trail along side a steep bank (many thanks to the dirt bikers who built a lot of the trail we were now covering!). Emerging at the top of a forested hill was a clearing surrounding by Arbutus trees and containing a large compound made with saplings tied together for wind buffers, a fire pit in the middle (I’m sure for seasonal use), and of course a blue tarped lean to -- which just happened to flap when the last rider – Kerri Lynne on her young 5 year old was just going past ! We all heard it and held our breaths. He was a trooper and didn’t react. After taking a breather and taking in the surroundings, we carried on down a trail to an old forestry road, then back around and up another winding trail I have jokingly nicknamed “The Crime Scene Trail” - as there is lots of the yellow tape strung across wrong turns or loose banks. There are tight turns and a mossy rock face to cross bringing us back to the compound. From there we retraced our steps back – so down hill now and down the long steep narrow trail - back to the main logging road (at this point a light rain started to fall) . We used the last kilometer of road as a cool down before arriving at the horsetrailers. We were all too busy riding to take photos, but on the cooldown managed to snap a couple photos.

Learning about Hoof Health

2011-04-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

On March 16, Shane Sampson and Mark Hobby delivered an informative talk on hoof health for members of the equestrian community as part of the BCCTRA Equine Education Series. Approximately 15 people showed up to learn about how the hoof and foot are put together, what happens to them when riding, and how to maintain hoof health.

They tailored the talk to educate long distance riders - which was very helpful. Building upon ideas introduced from Andrea's talk in the first session, they talked about basic hoof comformation and how it can potentially limit performance. For example, Shane stressed how a flat footed horse has more difficulty over long distances due to its inability to flex in the same way as a horse with a normal foot. Together, they also emphasized how important keeping a horses toes short is for ease of movement. Any extra length results in the horse having to work harder to come over and maintain fluid movement. For those in the audience that shoe, they handed out information and talked about what to look for in a good shoeing job - ensuring that there is support for the heel.

Everyone stayed long after the talk to ask them more questions and examine the models they brought. A great learning experience for everyone.

The next Equine Education session is April 13th slatted for 7 to 8:30 pm when Dr. Raegan Brendle will talk about April 13 "Recognition and Management of Metabolic Conditions in Equine Endurance Athletes" slated to take place at Vancouver Island University – Building 250 – Room 215 Nanaimo campus from 7 - 8:30 pm. Please note that if the University is still on strike, the talk will take place at the Broody Rooster Guesthouse and Gallery - 2980 Giovando Road, in Cedar. Check the VIU website to find out or call Nicole at 250-245-4405 or email at nicoleathome@shaw.ca

Learning about biomechanics with Andrea Sargent

2011-03-04T11:31:00.001-08:00

By Nicole Vaugeois

The Equine Educations series has begun! On Wednesday night at Vancouver Island University, we had the opportunity to learn about biomechanics from Dr. Andrea Sargent. Andrea is enthusiastic about what she does and shared a whirlwind of ideas with us in the 1.5 hour session. For those that couldn't attend - here are a couple of tidbits that I took away...

Competitive Trail is a great sport because it focuses on the fitness and conditioning of the horse. The way we judge our horses - 60% is based on biomechanics - which Andrea supported.
The way our horses is built can indicate a lot about their function - so structure can indicate functionality. At the same time, how our horses function over time, can also influence their structure.
She encourages horses to keep active - use it or lose it - as muscle maintenance is vital to support our horses movement.
She encouraged us to train our horses over varied terrain - this allows them to learn to use their body effectively, prior to competition.
She demonstrated how forward movement is a result of a bow and sling action - initiated in the hind end. The spine, if healthy, carries the movement generated in the hind end up and then out. If there are any structural issues with the spine, which can be caused by a number of things (conformation, poor saddle, poor riding...), then the energy gets blocked, diffused into the muscles and the horse will have to compensate in other ways to move forward.
She showed us a few images of horses conformation and indicated how the alignment of key joints in the hind and foreleg, can influence a horses movement.
And - the fun part, she demonstrated a few of these on our audience members!

On behalf of BCCTRA, thanks Andrea for your time and expertise. For those who missed the event, mark your calendar for March 16th when Shane Sampson will go into Hoof care with us. Same place, same time - Vancouver Island University at 7-8:30 pm in Building 250- room 215. Members are free and non members are $3 - and there are door prizes too!

Event calendar for 2011 is here!

2011-02-25T21:18:00.001-08:00

Here it is, the 2011 calendar full of lots of education, riding and socializing opportunities. Mark your calendars as things start this week!

CTR- Competitive Trail Ride (competition over long distance for placing, mileage, use of BCCTRA rule book)

SR – Schooling ride (introductory clinic to competitive trail riding)

PR – Pleasure ride (recreational ride with education components, mileage)

RMW – Ride manager workshop (how to host a CTR workshop)

INFO - Booth providing information about CTR

AGM – Annual General Meeting

TR - *New for 2011 - Training Rides - MAXIMUM 15 RIDERS RSVP REQUIRED FOR ALL RIDES EHES - *New for 2011 - Equine Health Educational Series - no charge for members - all others $3.00

March 2nd -

Education series event: Biomechanics: A foundation for Injury Prevention and Optimal Performance with Dr. Andrea Sargent. Vancouver Island University – Building 250 – Room 215 Nanaimo campus from 7:00 - 8:30 pm

March 5th -

Training ride Back In The Saddle Jo Hull-Sykes - organizer 250-245-2852 josemail@telus.net

March 16 -

Education series event No Foot – No Ride The importance of hoof health with Shane Sampson. VENUE CHANGE DUE TO STRIKE AT VIU - Now at the Broody Rooster Guesthouse and Gallery in Cedar/Yellowpoint - map at: http://www.broodyrooster.com/ Nanaimo campus from 7 - 8:30 pm Contact: 250-245-4405 or nicoleathome@shaw.ca

March 27

Training ride NOTE DATE CHANGE Bush Creek Crossing, Ladysmith Joanne Schneider - organizer 250-245-5627 jl.schneider@shaw.ca

March 26

3rd annual Horse Bazaar-Lakeside Equestrian Centre Joanne Macalusco & Peter Reid 250-456-7320 250-395-3335 Joanne_macaluso@bcit.ca or cariboolog@telus.net

April 13

Recognition and Management of Metabolic Conditions in Equine Endurance Athletes by Dr. Raegan Brendle Vancouver Island University – Building 250 – Room 210 Nanaimo campus from 7 - 8:30 pm Contact: 250-245-4405 or nicoleathome@shaw.ca Note if the Strike is still on (check www.viu.ca) then the event will be held at the Broody Rooster Guesthouse and Gallery at 2980 Giovando Road, Cedar (www.broodyrooster.com for map)

April 16 -

Training Ride CANCELLED AS THE FIELDS ARE TOO WET Nanaimo – Takala Ranch 5735 Takla Rd, Ladysmith Doug and Mary Carr - organizers 250-245-4864

April 27

Understanding the TPR and tips for obtaining the most accurate values by Dr. Miranda Noseck. This talk will cover how to perform a basic physical exam on your horse. It will include how to take your horse's temperature, pulse and respiratory rate. It will also cover assessing hydration status, listening to gut sounds, and palpating for a pulse. As we learn how to obtain this information, we will cover what is normal versus what is abnormal. Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo campus - 250-room 210 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm.

June 10, 11, 12

CTR and PR 123 Giddy-Up Gogo-Nanaimo CTR manager - Kerri-Lynne Wilson - 250-245-4842 mailto:nicole.vaugeois@viu.ca Co manager - Lisa Beeston 250-722-3443 PR manager (June 12th) Nicole Vaugeois 250-245-4405 or nicoleathome@shaw.ca

July 2-3

CTR 123 Twincreeks, Duncan Michelle Balme 250-743-6192 balme@telus.net Rhonda Hittinger rhondahittinger@shaw.ca

July 15-16

CTR 123 Sunset - Kelowna Myrna Thompson 250-317-8347 myrnathompsonis@hotmail.com

July 30-31

CTR 1,2 Morningstar - Parksville Nancy Gourlay 250-954-3941 nancy@cheeseworks.ca

August 12-13

CTR 123 Cariboo Plateau Joanne Macaluso 250-456-7320 joanne_macaluso@bcit.ca

Sept 25-26

CTR 123 Chemainus Michelle Balme 250-743-6192 balme@telus.net

Oct 2

CTR 123 Sasquatch Scurry Karen Eigler 250-338-6874 jkeigler@telus.net

Oct 21-23

Booth at Mane Event, Chilliwack Jo-Hull-Sykes 250-245-2852 josemail@telus.net

Oct 23

AGM 10:00 AM Oak Room - Best Western Rainbow Country Inn Chilliwack Tammy Mercer 250-335-3390 ridingforfreedomranch@shaw.ca Note that there are a series of conference calls throughout the season but due to confidentiality the number is not posted here - members can check their email for more information on dates and call in.

New education series starting soon!

2011-02-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

BC Competitive Trail Riders’ Association is spearheading a new education series this spring on equine health. The schedule provides learning opportunities for equestrians to learn more about horse fitness and conditioning, the basis of competing in long distance riding. While the topics are intended to help competitive trail riders prepare for the 2011 season, equestrians in other disciplines are also welcome to attend.

Location: Vancouver Island University – Building 250 – Room 215 Nanaimo campus
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Cost: BCCTRA members – Free, Non members $3 each session

For more information on this series – please contact Nicole Vaugeois, PR Director for BCCTRA at nicoleathome@shaw.ca or at 250-245-4405

Wed. March 2Biomechanics: A foundation for Injury Prevention and Optimal PerformanceCorrect mechanics is fundamental to sport performance.
Optimal biomechanics increase performance by decreasing abnormal stresses on the body allowing energy to be used more effectively. Aberrant mechanics not only lead to a decrease in performance, it also increases the risk of developing repetitive strain injuries. These types of injuries often go unnoticed until they surface as missed training days, scratches from competition due to your horse “being off”, or the development of a lameness of unknown cause. Join Dr. Andrea Sargent as she speaks passionately about the mechanics behind horse’s movement, common repetitive strain injuries affecting our horses during competition season and how they can be prevented.

Dr. Andrea Sargent BSc (biomechanics), DC, is a certified human chiropractor with post-graduate qualifications in animal chiropractic care. Her practice focuses on sport performance, achieved through education, treatment and rehabilitation of both the horse and rider. She provides her clients with biomechanical explanations behind faulty movement patterns and behavioral/training issues, which can frequently be treated with non-invasive solutions

Wed. March 16No Foot – No RideThe importance of hoof health cannot be understated, yet many riders have a limited understanding about basic hoof care. Join this session as Shane Sampson educates equestrians on what happens within the horses’ foot during exercise, particularly in sports where multiple compressions occur – such as long distance riding events. Shane will then link this information to hoof care including tips for riders to maintain proper hoof health. Whether you shoe, go barefoot or use boots for riding, this session will leave you with a better understanding about what your horses’ feet need to be ready to carry you forward this year.

Shane Sampson is a certified Farrier with the American Farrier Association and a member of the Western Canadian Farrier Association. Shane has been shoeing for over 10 years and advocates for healthy feet – shod, barefoot or boots. He has provided hoof care on the mainland and the island and understands the complexities of terrain, use and horse conformation on hoof health. He is currently the farrier of both the 2010 BCCTRA High Point Lightweight, Heavyweight and overall champions.

April 13th (note this session is in room 210 instead of 215 - right beside one another!)
Recognition and management of metabolic conditions in equine endurance athletes by Dr. Raegan Brendle (Petroglyph Animal Hospital).

April 27th (Building 250- room 210)
Understanding the TPR and tips for obtaining the most accurate values by Dr. Miranda Noseck
This talk will cover how to perform a basic physical exam on your horse. It will include how to take your horse's temperature, pulse and respiratory rate. It will also cover assessing hydration status, listening to gut sounds, and palpating for a pulse. As we learn how to obtain this information, we will cover what is normal versus what is abnormal.

Miranda was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, where she trained and competed in the hunter/jumper discipline. She completed her undergraduate schooling at Oregon State University, followed by her veterinary medical degree in Los Angeles from Western University of Health Sciences in 2008.
Following graduation, she pursued an intensive internship at New England Equine Medical and Surgical Center in Dover, New Hampshire, where her focus was emergency/critical care, internal medicine, lameness, and surgery. A combination of personal and professional reasons attracted Miranda to Vancouver Island almost two years ago, where she works for both Dr. Danielle Fritz and Petroglyph Animal Hospital.

Equine Educators conference - BCCTRA comments

2011-01-26T20:45:00.000-08:00

By Nicole Vaugeois

The Equine Educators conference was held Jan 21-23 in Kelowna. Tammy Mercer, Peter Reid and I all attended from BCCTRA and were able to share some of our unique needs with respect to trail access. Peter and I participated at the Trails Roundtable on Saturday where about 20 land managers and different equine trail user groups discussed their needs or position on trail use for horses. The event was a great success as folks were able to share their perspectives in a respectful way to understand each other. I am sure that the outcomes will be positive and am hoping we can continue this sort of dialogue in years to come. Congrats to Horse Council BC for pulling this together and inviting us to participate.

I was asked to speak about the needs of competitive trail user groups, which included input from Endurance, competitive trail and TREC. The following are some comments shared:

We have unique usage needs for trails in that we use them frequently for training and require numerous miles of varied terrain;

We require access to trails for training and competition as we seek permission for each mile we use in competition;

We have experienced challenges with respect to access, particularly from private forest companies where permit fees and delays in approvals has impacted events;

We are seeking to develop stronger working relationships with land managers so that they understand our sport, our usage patterns and see us as partners in land management;

Our competition requires travel and overnight camping. Further enhancements to travel with horses such as pull outs, ferry knowledge about horses, signage and camp facilities are needed throughout the province. Camp facilities that are accessible and accommodating of horses are needed, particularly sites that can accommodate numerous large rigs for competitions.

Since the event, I have already been communicating with Rod Bealing, who represents private timber companies in BC and he has been helpful in linking me with the right people that we can communicate with about things such as annual permits and partnership. Similarly, Connie Faulk in Barriere, who was also on the roundtable has emailed me to say she is keen to have a BCCTRA event in their region as they have the trails and facilities we need for our events. Similarly, Chilko Ranch is keen to have a BCCTRA event this year and there is some interest in having a schooling ride on the Sunshine Coast.

All in all, this type of exposure for our sport was invaluable. We need to be understood with other horse groups and with land managers in order to move toward the goals in our strategic plan. I believe this event helped and we can build upon it by using the contacts made.

BC Trails Roundtable - Kelowna January 22

2011-01-05T20:05:00.000-08:00

Competitive trail riders need access to trails for their miles of smiles. Whether training or competing, riders throughout the province spend hours in the saddle on trails owned by a variety of land managers such as provincial parks, regional districts, timber companies and private owners.

BCCTRA is committed to play an active role in enhancing trail access for equestrians. One of our members, Nicole Vaugeois, sits on the Joint Trails Access committee with HCBC and is joined by reps from other organizations such as Endurance riders and Backcountry horsemen. Together these three organizations represent the three types of user groups for equestrian trails - competitive and recreational.

Unfortunately, access to trails has been a growing issue for equestrians in BC. Urban sprawl, private land development, arduous permit processes and restrictions or prohibitive fees from Timber companies are some of the factors that have precipitated this issue.

HCBC is organizing an Equestrian Education Conference in Kelowna on January 22-23. At this event, a trails roundtable is being organized to allow for better dialogue and enhanced relationships between trail user groups and land managers. The roundtable promises to be a positive evolution for BCCTRA and Nicole Vaugeois and Tammy Mercer are attending on behalf of BCCTRA to bring our specific trail needs to the table. Members will hear more about the outcome of the conference later on.

In the meantime - if you have specific trail related concerns or better yet - solutions - send them to Nicole to have represented at the conference.

Congratulations 2010 Award winners!

2011-01-03T22:16:00.000-08:00

On December 19, members of BCCTRA gathered at Gryphon's Lair near Ladysmith for a Year end awards celebration over brunch. Congratulations to all the award recipients and thank you to Barbara Smith for tabulating all the year end awards and to Sheri Cochlan for coordinating the trophies. And, big thanks also out to Tammy Mercer and Karen Eigler for presenting the awards.

Overall High Point Horse and Rider

Nicole Vaugeois with 2851 points

Weight Division High Point Awards

Junior: Teri Lynn Moorby with 951.9

Lightweight: Nicole Vaugeois with 3142.69

Heavyweight: Laureen Styles with 3092.69

Lil Schmidt High Mileage Award - Tie

Laureen Styles and Nicole Vaugeois each with 115.23 miles

High Point Breeds

Grade: El Nino owned by Nicole Vaugeois

Quarter Horse: Slow Dancer Dan owned by Nicole Vaugeois (ridden by Laureen Styles)

Morgan: Northern Flaire owned by Phyllis Payne

Arabian: Lyndales Bambaya owned by Del Lenk

1/2 Arab: Unforgettable Samba owned by Blane Hill

Canadian: Du Coteau Dynamo Lyrique owned by Kerri-Lynne Wilson

Appaloosa: Rocking Bear Paw owned by Barrie Davies

Senior Horse

Michelle Laszczyk’s “Jacob One One” - Grade horse

Best Young Horse

Tammy Mercer’s “WRA Dark Diablo” – Arabian

Rookie of the Year and Combined Mileage

Nicola Maughn for 108.23 miles

Rookie is Nicola with 1934.19 points

Volunteer of the year -Jo-Hull Sykes

Sportsperson of the Year - John Eigler

Gordon Sydney Award - Tammy Mercer

The Ride of the Year – Cariboo Plateau organized by Joanne Macaluso and team

Mileage Awards:

100 miles

Lisa Beeston

Sheri Cochlan

Joanne Macaluso

250 Miles

Laureen Styles

Kerri-Lynne Wilson

Katie Schoor

Top 9 Lightweight Riders

Nicole	Vaugeois	3142.69
Nicola	Maughn	1934.19
Joni	Dewitt	1265
Joanne	Macaluso	948.9
Lori	Bewza	942.9
Tammy	Mercer	919.43
Jennifer	Brownlow	309.9
Janine	Davies	309.9
Nancy	Gourlay	298.4

Top 10 Heavyweight Riders

Laureen	Styles	3092.69
Delford	Lenk	1286
Blane	Hill	1265.6
Jo	Hull Sykes	638.4
Diane	Prinsen	636.6
Kerri-Lynne	Wilson	630.6
Madeline	Bateman	623
Sheri	Cochlan	620.13
Debbie	Cole	585.7
Lisa	Beeston	317.4

Top Junior Riders

Teri Lynn	Moorby	951.9
Katie	Schoor	638.4
Kevin	Gourlay	303.9
John	Gourlay	301.4

Top Ten High Point Riders

Nicole	Vaugeois	2851
Laureen	Styles	2801
Nicola	Maughn	1750.5
Delford	Lenk	1178
Joni	Dewitt	1164
Blane	Hill	1159
Teri Lynn	Moorby	882
Joanne	Macaluso	879
Lori	Bewza	873
Tammy	Mercer	864.5

Lifetime Mileage

Shannon	Allan	0
Michelle	Balme	538.58
Donna	Barr	140.6
Madeline	Bateman	566.68
Lisa	Beeston	147.8
Laurie	Belanger	0
Lori	Bewza	748.26
Sue	Billings	12.6
Randi	Bjornson	0
Jennifer	Brownlow	28.4
Doug	Carr	150.4
Mary	Carr	123.4
Bruce	Christison	967.4
Penny	Clayton	55.4
Sheri	Cochlan	158.55
Debbie	Cole	35.7
Debra	Coles	0
Sandy	Compton	20
Leslie	Coultish	151.7
Janine	Davies	18.9
Barry	Davies	35.23
Jayne	Demorest	0
Joni	Dewitt	50.5
John	Eigler	570.07
Karen	Eigler	787.67
Pat	Evans	0
Kevin	Gourlay	31.5
John	Gourlay	31.5
Nancy	Gourlay	18.9
Clarke	Gourlay	18.9
Fiona	Griffiths	0
Julia	Hardcastle	0
Anna	Hawthorne	59.4
Pat	Hayword	1292.34
Blane	Hill	720.7
Rhonda	Hittinger	84.5
Jo	Hull Sykes	174.4
Janice	Isenor	29.4
Wyatt	Laing	79.95
Michelle	Laszczyk	0
Delford	Lenk	788.73
Nichola	Lindberg	0
Diana	Little	0
Anne	Mabberley	12.6
Joanne	Macaluso	120.04
Ann	Mackay	1715.65
Nicola	Maughn	61.23
Shannon	Mayer	357.51
Tammy	Mercer	698.24
Teri Lynn	Moorby	23.3
Phyllis	Payne	450
Richard	Payne	0
Debbie	Powell	40
Diane	Prinsen	46.3
Peter	Reid	0
Pat	Sampson	59.3
Joanne	Schneider	122.9
Katie	Schoor	253.1
Jo	Schoor	184.8
Deborah	Schrott	0
Barbara	Smith	707.6
Laureen	Styles	354.57
Patricia	Taylor	0
Myrna	Thompson	35.23
Donna	Tuele	26.5
Jenessa	Tuele	0
Ron	Tuele	0
Nicole	Vaugeois	499.67
Bev	Voigt	12.6
Linda	Warnock	422.8
Mary	Watts	12.6
Molly	White	398.1
Kerri-Lynne	Wilson	274.4

Welcome to Miles of Smiles!

2011-01-03T21:59:00.000-08:00

On behalf of BCCTRA, welcome to our new blog - Miles of Smiles. This blog will be used to provide a venue for our members and those interested in the long distance equestrian sport of competitive trail to learn and share with other like minded folks. Our website is currently being redesigned as well, and between the two platforms, we will be able to provide more in time, up to date and interactive ways for you to get information for training or to plan your season.

As PR director, I will be contributing regular thoughts but all of the BCCTRA directors can also contribute to the blog, so you can hear more about what is going on in your own region.

We are always keen to hear your ideas on events for the season, topics you want to learn more about, and potential ride sites.

The 2011 calender of events is currently being developed and will be posted and shared with folks soon. In the meantime, it is time to renew those memberships (and get your HCBC done while you are at it!).

Cheers
Nicole Vaugeois - PR Director