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Speaker Information and Biographies - 2010   

     - Listed in alphabetical order


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Elaine L. Bailey, MS, PAS
Agent, 4-H Youth Development

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

   - Friday, 5-6 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Green Options in Farm Management and Construction
Many farms and businesses are interested in “going green”. But how does one achieve that on the farm? This session focuses on practices that can easily be implemented on your farm to make it more environmentally friendly. Topics include recommended plantings, water and waste management and simple changes in daily routines which make your operation more environmentally friendly. 

Biography

Elaine Bailey (Horse Management) - has worked for the College of AGNR for over 23 years. In July 2007, she moved from the Institute of Applied Agriculture to Maryland Cooperative Extension. Bailey is the 4-H Educator for Calvert County.

An Animal Scientist by training, she has taught numerous classes at the University of Maryland at College Park. Among her past teaching responsibilities are ANSC 101 Principles of Animal Science, INAG 232 Equine Business Management, INAG 201 Personnel Management, ANSC 220 Livestock Management, INAG 110 Oral Communications, and many other courses. Bailey has held leadership positions in the Washington, DC American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists, and has served on both the Calvert Farmland Trust Board of Directors and on the Calvert Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board. Bailey has tutored adults for the Calvert County Literacy Council, and has served on the Calvert County Fair Livestock Committee. She is an avid horsewoman and is working toward her Training Level Achievement Award with the Potomac Valley Dressage Association.

Bailey earned a B.S. Degree in Animal Science, with a minor in Pure Science, from Clemson University, and a M.S. Degree in Agricultural and Extension Education from Iowa State University.

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Ben Beale
Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resources and
Co-County Extension Director

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Thursday, 4-5 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall  
Fertility Central - Cost Options and Recommendations for Pastures
  

Biography

Ben Beale - currently serves as the Extension Educator for Agricultural Sciences in St. Mary’s County. In this position, he has the responsibility to develop and implement programs in crop and livestock production, farm management and marketing. Beale holds a BS degree in Agricultural Sciences and MS degree in Management and Marketing. 

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Lorrie Bracaloni
Caroline Rider Horsemanship, booth 2309

 - Saturday, 6-7 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Pain Point Release Application
Lorrie Bracaloni a Certified Holistic Equine Practitioner shows you what  to look for on the horse's body, where the pain points are and what you as a horse owner can do about them. She will teach easy application methods anyone can do to release them. You will see a difference in your horse if his pain points are misaligned. This method will save the horse owner money and time with their horse health care needs. Plus your horse will love you for it.  

Biography

Lorrie Bracaloni (Equine Therapies, Pain Release) - Lorrie Bracaloni has self published a DVD and workbook, "How to Release Your Horse's Pain Points". She has helped horses be sound and healthy for over 10 years. Lorrie is also an Animal B.E.S.T. (Bio Energetic Synchronization Technique) Certified Practitioner with the Morter Health System.

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Dana Bright  
My Lady's Manor Driving Club, booth 412, 413

   - Saturday, 12-1 pm, Main Seminar Hall  
Introduction to Driving
Demystify driving! Driving and riding are more alike than you think. It’s all about control, communication, balance and the aids.

  - Saturday, 2-3 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Putting Your Horse to Harness
See the basics of harness fitting, hitching to the carriage and basic safety with Dana Bright and Anne Councill, both instructors, clinicians and American Driving Society licensed officials. 

Biography

Dana Bright (Driving) - Dana was born in New York City and spent her childhood plotting to move to the country on her own farm. She has lived in York, PA, for almost 30 years where her husband and son are farriers and her daughter and husband manage an Irish Draft breeding farm. She has 3 grandchildren and too many Jack Russell Terriers.

Although driving is Dana’s major interest now, she started riding early on and competed and instructed Combined Training and Three Day Eventing. She was a USPC District Commissioner and camp organizer. That background helped her organize the Mid Atlantic Regional Recreational Driving Weekend which celebrated its 11th anniversary in 2009. 

Dana is an American Driving Society “R” Pleasure Driving Judge, Combined Driving judge, Dressage Judge, and Pleasure Driving TD. She also holds an “R” with the USEF in Carriage Pleasure and Combined Driving. She has judged shows all over the United States, including Walnut Hill, Brandywine, Saratoga, Columbus Carriage Classic pleasure shows, the Arizona CDE, Gladstone CDE, Metamora CDE, Garden State CDE and Nebraska CDE. She has organized the My Lady's Manor Pleasure Show for 14 years. 

Mrs. Bright has been a board and committee member of the ADS for many years. She is currently the Chair of the Licensed Officials Committee with a special interest in providing officials with ongoing education and the chance to support each other as peers. She has taught clinics all over the country, to drivers of all levels, most recently for the Carolina Carriage Driving Club and for the second year at the National Drive in Kentucky. Dana is currently competing a pair of homebred Welsh Section A's by her stallion at the Intermediate level at CDE's and in pleasure driving shows as a pair, tandem, and unicorn with their sire.

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Amy Burk, PhD  
Assistant Professor /Extension Horse Specialist
Department of Animal and Avian Sciences
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Friday, 2-3 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
Value of Pastures for Horses and the Environment

Biography

Dr. Amy Burk (Value of Pastures) - Dr. Amy Burk serves as the coordinator for the undergraduate Equine Studies option and the graduate research program in equine nutrition within the Animal and Avian Sciences Department at the University of Maryland. She teaches Horse Management, Equine Science, Advanced Topics in Equine Nutrition as well as many horse related lectures and labs within the department's 4-yr curriculum. In 2008, Dr. Burk received the Poffenberger Excellence in Teaching and Advising from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Maryland. As an Extension Horse Specialist, Dr. Burk provides statewide educational leadership and training in the area of equine nutrition and pasture management to members of the horse industry. Dr. Burk's research interests lie mainly in the area of nutrient utilization of feeds and forages to improve the health and management of horses. Dr. Burk completed her graduate work in Animal and Poultry Sciences as a Pratt Fellow in Animal Nutrition at Virginia Tech. She specialized in equine nutrition, earning an M.S. in 1998, and a PhD in 2001. She grew up riding in the Linthicum 4-H Hi-Riders and St. Margaret’s Pony Club, both based in Anne Arundel County, MD.

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Rob Burk, MS
Executive Director
Maryland Horse Industry Board
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Sunday, 1-2 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
What's Next for the Maryland Horse Industry?

Biography

Rob Burk (Financing) - is a lifelong horseman who was hired by the MHIB in December 2002. Growing up in Northern California, Rob worked as a rider, trainer and groom with many of the countries most accomplished dressage and eventing professionals. Additionally, as a teenager Rob worked as a groom for the late Captain David Foster of County Meath, Ireland. As a young rider Rob won several State championships in California and when he headed off to college at 17 he was an H-A rated member of the U.S. Pony Club. While in College Rob was a IHSA Regional Open Over Fences and Flat Champion and the fourth ranked Western Reining and Horsemanship Rider in the Nation. 

Academically, Rob was awarded the 2000 Betty F. Kennedy Award of Academic Excellence, the 2000 Leo's Choice Treats Award/Academic Scholarship and the 1999 Abdullah Award. Rob earned a Bachelors of Science in Equine Science from Otterbein College in Ohio and a Master of Science from Virginia Tech. While at Virginia Tech, he spearheaded the advertising campaign for the MARE Center Thoroughbred Yearling Auction. During that same time he managed the main project of the center sponsored by Waltham Nutrition under the guidance of the late Dr. David Kronfeld. Rob is a current fellow of the LEAD Maryland Foundation's Class VI, a non-profit organization dedicated to identifying and developing leadership for agriculture, natural resources and rural communities. While with the MHIB Rob has worked through the Maryland Department of Agriculture to expand the understanding of the positive impact of equine operations on the State and has focused on broadening acceptance of equine operations into State agricultural programs. 

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Brian Clark, MS
Agent, Agriculture and Natural Resource, Horticulture  
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Thursday, 4-5 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall  
Fertility Central - Cost Options and Recommendations for Pastures
  

Biography

Brian Clark, MS (Pasture Fertility) - Mr. Clark has a B.S. in Entomology (Production Agriculture and Horticulture) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1996 and a M.S. in Entomology (Medical and Veterinary) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2001. He has been employed by the University of Maryland Extension as an educator since 2007. Before joining Extension, Brian worked at the University of Maryland-College Park as an Urban IPM specialist, Landscape IPM specialist, and oversaw the campus's hazardous tree inventory.

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Dr. C. Wynne Collins, MVB, MRCVS
Diplomate, American College of Theriogenologists, Doctoral Fellow  
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Thursday, 6-7 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall  
Newborn Foal Care
  

Biography

C. Wynne Collins (Foal Care) - received her veterinary degree in 1998 from the Veterinary Faculty of Ireland in 1998. After that, she spent several years in mixed animal and equine practice, where she specialized in equine reproduction. During her time in practice, she got the opportunity to work in reproduction practice both in Ireland and Australia. In 2002, she started a residency in Equine Theriogenology at University of California, Davis for two years and became board certified in 2005. Since completing the residency, she has been conducting reproductive research on Przewalski's horses at the National Zoological Park's Conservation and Research Center in Front Royal, VA. She is currently working on completing her PhD in reproductive physiology at the University of Maryland.

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Anne Councill
My Lady's Manor Driving Club, booth 412, 413

  - Saturday, 12-1 pm, Main Seminar Hall  
Introduction to Driving
Demystify driving! Driving and riding are more alike than you think. It’s all about control, communication, balance and the aids.

  -  Saturday, 2-3 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Putting Your Horse to Harness
See the basics of harness fitting, hitching to the carriage and basic safety with Dana Bright and Anne Councill, both instructors, clinicians and American Driving Society licensed officials. 

Biography

Anne Councill (Driving) - At age 14, Anne began her horse career in Massachusetts, showing and then breeding Morgans. In the early 70’s she started to train professionally for the Morgan show ring. In the early eighties, tired of going around in circles and the subjective nature of horse shows, she made a change from breed activities to open competition in driving and dressage and has never looked back.

Anne has competed successfully at the Advanced Level in combined driving and has trained and shown a succession of horses in combined driving, pleasure and dressage, both ridden and driven. Anne became an ADS Dressage and Combined Driving judge in 1995, a Pleasure judge in 1997, a Large R Pleasure judge in 2004. She is currently pursuing a TD’s card. She calls dressage a lifelong challenge and actively pursues both her own education and teaching dressage and driving to others, both individually and in a clinic format. In 2001, Anne moved to Pennsylvania to a 118 acre farm now known as Driving in Birch Hollow, located in Stewartstown in southern York County. 

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Michael Daney, Esquire
Godwin, Erlandson, MacLaughlin, Verson & Daney, LLC
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 -  Thursday, 5-6 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
How Mediation Can Resolve a Lawsuit and Reduce Legal Fees
During this session, horse owners will learn how mediation can assist in resolving legal disputes. The program will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of mediation, how to select a mediator and evaluate the approaches to mediation to minimize exposure from a lawsuit. The program will also discuss the advantages of incorporating mediation clauses in contracts that can quickly resolve potential claims without the need for costly litigation.  

Biography

Mike Daney (Equine Liability) - graduated from the University of Delaware and received his law degree from the University of Kentucky. He served as counsel to the Delaware Racing Commission for four years before entering private practice. His primary practice areas are civil litigation, workers' compensation, regulatory law, legislation and equine-related matters. He represents his equine clients in insurance-related matters involving negligence claims, veterinary malpractice, mortality insurance disputes, premises liability and fertility insurance disputes. He prepares and handles contracts and contract claims involving purchase agreements, ownership rights, stallion syndications, boarding contracts, leases and sale disputes. He also represents clients before the Maryland Racing Commission involving medication rules disputes, licensing issues, riding infractions and eligibility and claiming issues. He also is involved with legislative oversight and lobbying for a variety of clients.

Mr. Daney has appeared as a speaker for the National Equine Law Seminar, the University of Baltimore Equine Law Symposium, and the Maryland Pleasure Horse Seminar. Mr. Daney is admitted to practice in Maryland, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania and Kentucky. He is also a member of the Equine Law Committee of the Kentucky Bar Association.

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Shannon Dill
Senior Agent, 4-H Youth Development & County Extension Director
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Friday, 5-6 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Green Options in Farm Management and Construction
Many farms and businesses are interested in “going green”. But how does one achieve that on the farm? This session focuses on practices that can easily be implemented on your farm to make it more environmentally friendly. Topics include recommended plantings, water and waste management and simple changes in daily routines which make your operation more environmentally friendly. 

Biography

Shannon Dill - Shannon Potter-Dill grew up on the Eastern Shore in Queen Anne's County. There she was very active in 4-H and FFA with the horse and pony project, judging, bowl and livestock. Upon graduation she moved to Wyoming and attended the University of Wyoming, receiving a BS in Agriculture Business and an MS in Agriculture Economics. There she competed on the Intercollegiate Horse Show Team for five years in the hunt and stock seat divisions. She is currently employed by the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension in Talbot County as the Agriculture and Natural Resource Educator. As well as agriculture production workshops Shannon also holds equine seminars for horse owners on the Eastern Shore.    

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Karol Dyson
Senior Agent, 4-H Youth Development & County Extension Director  

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Friday, 2-3 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Eat Right, Be Fit, Ride Better

Biography

Karol Dyson -  has been an Extension Educator for 23 years, in both Connecticut and Maryland. Currently she is the County Director and 4-H Educator in Charles County. She has assumed a prominent role in planning and managing many 4-H horse events in Maryland, including accompanying 4-H horse teams to Eastern Nationals in Louisville, KY for several years and managing the Maryland State 4-H Horse Show at the Maryland State Fair. Her main area of interest is the positive impact of horses on youth development and finding ways to involve more kids with horses.

Dyson received a BA degree in Sociology from Trinity College (CT) and an MED in Multicultural Education from the University of Hartford (CT). She has also completed course work in Ag and Extension Education. A lifelong horse lover, she lives in western Charles County with her husband Tim and their 8 horses. She has 4 children, all of whom have ridden throughout their lives, primarily in the hunter-jumper arena. Dyson is active in local horse organizations and was honored as the Sport Parent of the Year by the Southern Maryland Horse Show Association in 2005.

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Nicole Fiorellino

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 

  - Sunday, 4-5 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Horse Farms and the Environment

Biography

Nicole Fiorellino - Biography to be added

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Eddie Franceschi
Equine Conservation Planner
Montgomery County Soil Conservation District

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Sunday, 3-4 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Storm Water Management on the Horse Farm
This presentation covers underground storage tank installation to collect rainwater from barn and arena roofs, and other means of keeping your farm mud and erosion free. 

Biography

Eddie Franceschi - has been an Equine Resource Conservationist for the Montgomery Soil Conservation District (MSCD), located in Derwood, Maryland, for the past five years. He works with cooperators to encourage the development and adoption of Soil Conservation and Water Quality Plans. He provides technical assistance to design and implement Best Management Practices (BMPs). On a daily basis, he encourages the use of BMPs, which in turn, reduce erosion and improve water quality on agricultural land. 

Prior to joining MCSD, he worked in the same capacity for six years for the State of Maryland. While working as an Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at Indian Springs Country Club in Silver Spring, Maryland, Eddie became instrumental in the installation and maintenance of the club’s computerized irrigation-system. It was there that he began to fully appreciate the impact of soil and water quality on the environment. 

Eddie teaches Agricultural Spanish at the University of Maryland, College Park. In 1992, he graduated from University of Maryland with a B.S. in Soil and Water Conservation. In that same year, he received three A.S. degrees; Landscape Management, Golf Course Management and Lawn Care Management. He was a member of the University of Maryland Soil Judging Team from 1990 to 1992, which represented the Atlantic Region and competed at the National Soil Judging Competition placing in the top ten. 

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Julie Goodnight  
Julie Goodnight / Nutramax Labs, booth 1205

*Appearance Courtesy of Nutramax

 - Thursday, 1-2 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena  
Read Your Horse - Decipher the Communicative Behavior of Horses
Being herd animals, horses communicate constantly using gestures, body language and audible expressions. Learn to understand your horse’s communicative behavior so that you can interact effectively with your horse and communicate with him.

 - Thursday, 3-4 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Life in the Herd - Understanding Leadership and Motivation
Natural horsemanship is simply knowing and understanding the horse’s natural behavior, then using that information to train him in a way that makes sense to him. Learn the fundamentals of herd behavior and understand what your horse wants most in life, what motivates him to action and how he learns.

 - Friday, 11-noon, Main Arena  
Circles and Spins - Mark Big Scores in Your Pattern Work
Understand the theory behind executing flawless patterns, visualizing the perfect circle and riding crisp, smooth and accurate spins. You’ll be able to refine your cues and learn training exercises to help your horse perform better. 

 - Friday, 3-4 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena  
Don't Move! Train Your Horse to Stand for Mounting
There’s nothing more frustrating than the horse that walks off just as you attempt to swing up on his back, leaving you grasping and hopping in a spin. Learn how to prevent this bad habit from developing and effective training exercises that will teach your horse to stand like a statue whenever you ask.

 - Saturday, 10-11 am, Main Arena  
Improve Your Power Steering - Train Your Horse to Neck Rein
Learn the training progression and specific exercises you can employ to help your horse respond with lightness and responsiveness to your rein and leg aids. Develop the neck rein so that you can ride one-handed with precise control.

 - Saturday, 5-6 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Head Shy No More! Fix the Head Shy or Hard to Bridle Horse
There are unlimited reasons why horses develop head-shy and evasive behavior when it comes to bridling and handling the head. Learn effective desensitizing and bridling exercises that will teach your horse to drop his head and relax. 

 - Sunday, 10-11 am, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Danger Zone! How to Be Safe From the Ground and From the Saddle
Learn how horses defend themselves, how their vision and instinctive behavior influences their actions, the three fundamental danger zones around horses and how to keep yourself safe at all times when handling horses from the ground. 

 - Sunday, 1-2 pm, Main Arena  
Perfect Your Canter Departures and Lead Changes
Learn to set your horse up for the correct lead, cue for a smooth and controlled take-off, and develop the skills needed to execute perfect lead changes for both English and Western riders.

Biography

Julie Goodnight (Western Performance, General Training) - You know Julie Goodnight as "The Horse Master" on her award-winning RFD-TV television show. Through her varied background—riding and training horses in dressage, jumping, racing, reining, colt-starting, versatility ranch work, and wilderness riding—Julie has discovered the underlying principles important to any type of riding. She teaches "Classic Skills for a Natural Ride" and communicates clearly with horses and riders in any discipline and at any level. Julie travels coast-to-coast—and beyond—throughout much of the year to help horses and riders at horse expos, conferences, clinics, and while filming for her television “makeover” show.

Julie has been featured in the top equestrian publications, including The Trail Rider, Horse & Rider --where she's a member of Team Horse & Rider-- and America’s Horse. Her syndicated columns appear in over 15 regional publications throughout North America. Her interactive websites: juliegoodnight.com, horsemaster.tv, and her channel on youtube.com reach an even wider audience. Julie is also the International Spokesperson for the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). In 2008 she was named Equine Affaire's Exceptional Equestrian Educator--one of only three awards ever given. Julie resides at her private horse ranch near Salida, Colorado.

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Scot Hansen
HorseThink, booth 2305

 - Thursday, 2-3 pm, Main Seminar Hall
When You Expect Less You Get Less
Discover why your horse does not meet your expectations and what you can do to change it. Would you like to know how your pre-conceived ideas about your horses’ personality and performance may be hampering your continued success? Is your horse nervous, herd bound, impatient and do you “expect” those things, because “that is just the way your horse is.” Find out how you can help your horse and yourself have new expectations of each other and improve performance.

 - Thursday, 5-6 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Connecting Ground Exercises to Riding
Certain ground exercises will transfer to riding better than others. Explore the possibilities of having your young horse learn exercises on the ground that will transfer to the saddle. Imagine that your young horse understands how to side pass in just a few rides, back up without pulling on the bit and having a hollow back, give to the bit and go forward. Imagine signals that are effective and clear for your horse the minute you begin riding. These ground exercises can speed your program up and save you and your horse hours of frustration in the saddle.

 - Friday, 2-3 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
When All Else Fails, Start at the Beginning
Whether you are starting a new horse, re-educating a seasoned horse, or converting a horse from the track, there are exercises you can do that will help you get more from your horse. Seven things every horse should know before you mount up.

 - Saturday, 3-4 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Self Defense for Trail Riders
Do you ride alone on the trails?  Have you ever encountered someone who made you uncomfortable or wary?  Come watch a live demonstration of techniques you can use to keep yourself safe from a human predator out on the trails.  Learn how to recognize predator behavior, how to respond in the event of an assault, and how to use your horse to your advantage to stay safe. The demonstration will include some techniques from horseback and people will begin to learn how their normal instincts for protecting themselves don’t work effectively from horseback. The demo is very thought-provoking, as people see how vulnerable they could be to an attack and how, with the proper training for them and for their horses, they can stay safe.

 - Sunday, 12-1 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Mounted Police Test and Horse Evaluation - What to Look for Before You Buy
If you have ever wondered where the police get those fantastic horses that patrol the streets, they get them from the same places that you do, they buy them or get them donated through private individuals. The key to making a great police horse is to start out with a good prospect. Find out what I did to purchase police horses and learn some simple tests that you can do to see if your new prospect is right for you. From asking the right questions on the phone before your visit, to evaluating the horse once you have arrived, these steps will help make buying your next horse easier.

Biography

Scot Hansen (Self Defense for the Rider) - is a retired mounted police officer who trained officers and horses, purchased remounts, and worked the streets. During this time, he had the opportunity to ride horses in and around obstacles that the average person never encounters. He has ridden horses through difficult spots like railroad yards, tunnels, freeways, bars, crowd control, stadiums, fireworks, and under hovering helicopters. Besides his street work, Scot has ridden horses from the beaches and ocean shores of California, to the mountains in Montana.

He has learned his trade through numerous schools and clinics and most of all by "living it." He attended the San Jose Mounted Police School and the RCMP Riding School in Ottawa, Ontario. He has participated in numerous clinics and trained with many of today’s top Natural Horsemanship clinicians. In addition to those skills, he has also had training from classical dressage instructors and has a good working knowledge of dressage. He has participated in brandings, team penning, trail riding, and packing. This broad background gives Scot a vast working knowledge of what it takes to have a horse perform in a variety of disciplines and environments.

In 2002, Scot created a clinic and later produced an award winning video "Self Defense for Trail Riders." Based on questions from his clients about safety on the trails, he developed the clinic and video for trail riders who wanted to know how they could use their horse to defend against a human predator on the trail. Numerous articles about his work have been published in regional and national newspapers and magazines, and he has made guest appearances on radio shows. He now performs his "Self Defense for Trail Riders" demonstrations at Horse Expos throughout the nation.

Scot has had many training and general horsemanship articles published widely both in print and on-line. His wide range of experience, instruction, and practical use of horses allows Scot to effectively teach a wide array of horsemanship skills. Scot is available for demos and clinics worldwide.

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Kenny Harlow
Training with Trust, booth 2310-2312

 - Thursday, 3-4 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Teaching Obedience to Leg Cues
Has your horse ever been behind your leg? Create light leg aids and separate the three sections of the horse for immediate and proper response to gain forward movement and hind end engagement.

 - Friday, 12-1 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Creating the Connection - Teach Your Horse Self Carriage
Ever wonder how to create the ultimate connection between horse and rider? Kenny Harlow and Colleen Kelly team up to teach assistant trainer, Tara Jones, how to synchronize training techniques and proper riding skills to create proper contact and training that is based on trust. 

 - Saturday, 10-11 am, Exhibition Hall Arena
You Want Me to Load in That! Trailer Loading 101
Teach your horse to load slowly and safely and unload quietly and calmly, regardless of what type of trailer.

 - Sunday, 1-2 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena  
Finding Your Keys - Exercises to Better Train Your Performance Horse
Learn the keys to understanding what it takes to move specific parts of the horse with exercises that are fun and easy for any riding discipline and all riding levels.

Biography

Kenny Harlow (General Training, Problem Solving) - is a true horseman sharing his “Training with Trust” methods and gaining astounding results with horses and students alike.  Kenny is a graduate of John Lyons' very first certification program and he has continued his education and training under top trainers in the disciplines of dressage, hunter/jumper, eventing and reining.   He has been featured on national television shows including Hard Copy, and the NBC weekend Today show. Many newspapers and horse publications, such as Horse World Magazine, Equine Journal, and Chronicle of the Horse, have featured articles on Kenny’s training methods. His specialty is working with problem horses and starting unbrokes.  He proves that clear communication and patience is the key to solving the most difficult of problems.


Kenny resides in Cumberland VA, and continues to teach a  yearlong certification program, apprenticeship programs, horses and rider training vacations, as well as traveling the east coast teaching 5 day riding clinics.  Together with his paint gelding “Dozer” they continue to encourage horses and students alike to become partners through safe, effective techniques that bear results.  His revamped exercises make training faster and allow a solid understanding of a firm training foundation.

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Lance Jacob

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 Saturday, 6-7 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
New IRS Audit Issues for Equine Operations

Biography

Lance Jacob -  The business entity known as a "limited liability company" - LLC - is relatively new in Maryland, but has rapidly become the entity of choice for newly-forming small business, including equine businesses.  Together with accountant Lance Jacob, Kate Masterton, Esquire, will explain the benefits and drawbacks of LLCs as compared to other forms of business entities, especially regarding protection from liability; discuss the legal requisites for formation, operation, and dissolving LLCs; and talk about tax issues and business considerations involving LLCs.  This is your chance to obtain answers from legal and accounting authorities to unlock the mysteries of LLCs.

Lance joined Naden/Lean, LLC in 1991. He provides accounting, tax, and consulting services for individuals and businesses which include dentists, other healthcare providers, retail, and equine. Lance provides start-up services to new businesses including working with banks to help obtain financing. With his equine clients, he works to ensure they are in compliance with the federal, state, and local taxing authorities with respect to employment, business tax and reporting issues.

Lance grew up on farms with horses. He has owned horses for the last ten years (or could better be classified as chief stall cleaner for his wife's horses). His home zoo consists of five horses, four dogs, three cats, two sons and a goat. His wife Karen is a board member of the Potomac Valley Dressage Association. Lance is a member of Maryland Society of Accountants, Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, Maryland Horse Council and Potomac Valley Dressage Association.

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Nick Karazissis 
Far West Farm, Calabasas, CA

 - Friday, 1-2 pm, Main Seminar Hall
The What, Why and How of the USEF Tests That Judges Use in Equitation
In any discipline that includes equitation as a division, a judge has certain tools that may be used to further test the riders’ individual experience, knowledge, strength, feel and finesse.  In this session, Nick will discuss each of the Hunter Seat discipline’s 19 tests and help the audience understand what the tests are, why they are used and how to execute them properly.

 - Friday, 5-6 pm, Main Arena
Everything You Wanted to Know About Judging and Were Afraid to Ask
If you have ever exhibited your horse in front of a judge, it’s normal to walk away and wonder what the judge was thinking and how the judge determined the results.  In this session, Nick will discuss the main principles and philosophies that Hunter/Equitation Judges employ when judging a class.  After answering audience questions, Nick will ask our riders to perform in a series of classes while he and the audience are invited to judge. As time permits, Nick will line up the contestants and discuss his choices and answer any questions. 

 - Saturday, 3-4 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
The Six Commandments of Jumping
Nick will spell out the tools all winners use to achieve consistency and success on course. He’ll take you through the routine that creates a balanced horse in the opening circle and maintains that balance throughout the course, keeping the round smooth and even. The second part of the session will demonstrate how the use of precise measurements not only help teach the horse how to jump in the correct form, but also isolates the horse's rhythm so that the rider can attain the proper strength, form and automatic reflexes to stay in the middle of the horse while in the air.

 Saturday, 5-6 pm, Main Arena
The Common Things All Good Riders Do When They Ride a Jump Course
Learn how to make shoulder in, half pass and travers so easy! Find the safest jumping position and how to actually test if the rider is balanced. 

 - Sunday, 11-12 noon, Main Arena
The Three Basic Seats of Hunt Seat Equitation - Form Follows Function; Function Follows Form
All sports have their own special dynamic dictated by the physical laws of mechanics, motion and gravity. In this session, Nick will work with volunteer riders and demonstrate the relationship between a rider’s position and the horse’s balance, while highlighting the adjustments the rider needs to make as the horse goes through the natural gaits and movements.

 Sunday, 1-2 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Forward, Straight, Up and Frame - The Cornerstones of Balance
Creating balance is critical in every horseback riding discipline.  In this session, Nick discusses the what, where, why and how a rider needs in order to achieve a balanced Hunter/Jumper, both on the flat and over fences.

Biography

Nick Karazissis (Hunter, Jumper & Equitation) - Nick and his family are one of the cornerstones of the West Coast Horse Show Industry. Their Far West Farms is one of the oldest and most successful Hunter/Jumper businesses on the West Coast. Over the past 35 years, Nick with his brother Kost, sister-in-law Jenny and daughter Cassandra have consistently had Far West riders and horses win PCHA, Zone 10 and USEF Year end awards. Far West riders have also won every major Equitation Finals on the West Coast as well as having strong finishes and wins in National Finals. In 2001, one such rider, Jamie Taylor, won the Washington International Finals and also was second in the 2002 ASPCA/Maclay Finals. Most recently, riders who have carried the winning Far West Farm tradition are Katie Taylor and Cayla Richards. Katie followed in her sister’s foot steps by winning most of the finals she competed in. In 2005 Katie won the Western Maclay Regionals. In 2006 she went on to win the LAHSA Senior, the Foxfield, the WCE and the CPHA Adult Finals. Cayla Richards is one of the new young Far West Farms generation stars. She still rides in the 14 and under division and riding as 11 year old won the LAHSA 14 and under Rosewood Finals in 2005. In 2006, Cayla went on to win the The Onondarda Finals for 12 and under riders. In 2007, she won the PCHA 14 and under finals and was Reserve Champion in the National Show Circuit Finals at the Baltimore Capitol Challenge for riders 18 and under. In 2008, she not only won the 14 and under PCHA Foundation, but also the Jr. LAHSA Finals. Far West horses are also stars and continue to take their share of PCHA, Zone 10 and USEF Horse of the Year awards. Jenny Karazissis is considered one of the premier hunter riders in the Country.

Nick is a USEF R judge and has held his judge’s card for over 3 decades. He has also given clinics throughout the United States for over 20 years. Some of the places on his current clinic schedule are places that he has given annual clinics for the last 10 years. Springdown Equestrian Center in Northern California has hosted Nick for 3 clinics a year for the last 16.

When he is not judging, giving clinics, training or attending shows with Far West clients, Nick is busy donating his time with the governance of the sport. He is presently on the CPHA and PCHA board of directors as well as being USHJA Zone 10 chairman. Nationally, Nick is on USHJA Hunter Council and the USHJA Official’s Education Committees. He also serves on the USHJA Equitation Task Force and the USEF’s Continuing Education Committee. Nick’s latest contribution to the sport is producing, organizing and writing the new Get Connected DVD, which is one of the main clinic tools used for all USEF Hunter/Equitation Clinics. This not for profit DVD will be available at Horse World Expo and all proceeds go to future educational projects.

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Colleen Kelly
Colleen Kelly Rider Biomechanics, booth 2304

 - Friday, 10:15-11 am, Exhibition Hall Arena 
101 Ways to Improve Your Seat, Posture and Balance
There are literally 101 things you can take home from this presentation which will help your seat and posture and they're all so incredibly simple! See how easily the rider's seat, posture and balance changes the horse.

 - Friday, 4-5 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Analyzing the Rider's Seat, Posture and Balance
Learn how to test the rider's position! Test some of the "theories" about long or short stirrups, to grip or not to grip and should the jumper's toe turn out. Instead of just theories, we'll test every part of the rider's seat, posture and balance.

 - Saturday, 9:15-10 am, Exhibition Hall Arena
Biomechanics, Seat and Posture for Speed Sports, Reining, Polocrosse and Games
A split second can be the difference between winning and losing in speed sports and we've all heard of riders with an "electric seat". Find out what in the rider's seat and posture slows the horse down on straight lines or speeds up the turns and spins. And it's not just for speed sports - it's for Dressage as well, where speeding up means losing marks!

 - Sunday, 3-4 pm, Main Arena
Biomechanics, Seat and Posture for Higher Level Dressage & Jumping
Learn how to make shoulder in, half pass and travers so easy! Find the safest jumping position and how to actually test if the rider is balanced. 

Biography

Colleen Kelly (Rider Biomechanics ) - started her career in exercise physiology in injury and cardiac rehabilitation gymnasiums. Now, 25 years later, she is one of the world's most sought after keynote speakers, having been invited to speak for Official Equestrian Federations around the world at the Grand Prix (Olympic Level) Judge’s Conference. Her world lecture tour includes Official Equestrian Federations throughout the world, FEI Level Judge’s Clinics & world class conferences such as Horse World Expo, Equitana, Equinexpo, Sporthorse and Equine Extravaganza.

Colleen was elected spokeswoman for the WorkCover Authority of NSW and she has a keen interest in OH&S, seat & posture in the workplace and is the founder of the Kidsafety School Posture Program. Although Colleen is well known for judging at many State, National and Royal Championships, and for receiving a remarkable 100% in her Official Dressage Judge’s Exam, it's her ‘Irish Sense of Humor’ that keeps audiences around the world smiling. Colleen has also received 3 separate awards for her work with Riding for Disabled.

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Dr. Nick Kohut
Old Dominion Endurance Rides/ECTRA, booth 1309

  -  Friday, 3-4 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Competitive Trail Riding - the Modern Cavalry?
It’s not endurance, it’s not a race, all breeds are welcome! Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association (ECTRA) judges/members will describe the sport of CTRs and how distance trail riding will benefit you and your horse. Improve your knowledge of horse care, stress management and have FUN while riding 10 to 40 miles in one day!

  -  Saturday, 5-6 pm, Main Seminar Hall
What is Endurance Riding? Prepare Yourself and Your Horse
Prepare yourself and your horse for 50-100 mile one-day American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) competitions. “To Finish Is To Win” and “To Race or Not to Race”. How to prepare for that first 50 mile ride. Decisions, decisions – managing your horse for that day’s competition, terrain and weather and tips for competing a non-Arabian – yes, you can ride 50 miles!

Biography

Dr. Nick Kohut (Endurance, Competitive Trail Riding ) -  Dr. Nick Kohut, a graduate of The Ohio State University, has been judging trail rides for the past 18 years.  Over that time period he has worked more than 250 competitive trail rides, endurance rides and ride & tie events.   He is a past president of the Eastern Competitive Trail Riding Association (ECTRA), currently serves as a member of their board and as the chair of the judges committee.

Dr. Kohut is a certified head veterinary judge with the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) and is a member of both their veterinary committee and the welfare of the horse committee.  He is also a four star FEI judge.  He currently resides in Gap, PA with his wife Ranelle.

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Gary Lane
Windswept Stables, booth 1405, 1406

  - Friday, 7-7:30 pm, Main Arena  
A Celebration of the Gaited Horse
Several gaited horse breeds will be highlighted in this fun and educational demonstration explaining the differences and similarities between the gaited horse breeds and their unique way of going.

 -
Saturday, 11-12 noon, Exhibition Hall Arena
Understanding Gait and Recognizing the Different Gaits
In this demonstration you will learn how to recognize movement of the feet in gaited horses on the ground and on horseback.  The Missouri Foxtrotter, Mountain Horse, Racking Horse, Paso Fino and Tennessee Walking Horse breeds all do a 4-beat gait.  The teaching points of understanding natural head set, over-stride, head nod in the flat walk and an even four-beat gait, is now in reach so everyone can experience the most exciting ride in the world. 

 - Saturday, 3-4 pm, Main Arena 
Developing an Easy Gait
You will learn how getting the horse's head and back in the correct position will help to solve gaiting problems. Establishing and maintaining balance is the key to finding the exciting walk that all gaited horses have to offer. Using the horses natural ability to step into the hand without pulling is a thrilling, rewarding experience for everyone to learn and enjoy.  The horse's heart and soul is in his mouth and the gait in the top line.

 - Sunday, 10-11 am, Main Arena  
Solving Pacing Problems in the Gaited Horse
Riding a horse that likes to pace is not fun, but by using downward transitions you can turn the pace into an easy four beat gait.  Identifying pacing problems under saddle can be difficult for the novice owner.  Heavy shoes, saddle fit, bitting, starting a horse too young and confirmation all play a role in pacing problems.  Watch the horse find an easy four beat gait. The sky's the limit. 

 - Sunday, 3-4 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Using Seat, Legs and Hand to Find a Smooth, Easy Gait
Using seat, leg and hand aids to find a smooth easy gait is the key to all gaited horse riding. When the rider's leg stimulates the hindquarters for more impulsion, followed with the right hold and placement of the hands, then the rider gives an immediate release into gait as a reward. You are then building a sold foundation for training for the rail and trail. Gary will explain the steps and mental attitude involved to get nice trail or rail horse. 

Biography  

Gary Lane (Gaited Horses) - has worked with many gaited horses over the years. He is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge of the novice and professional gaited horse trainer in order to develop a free going horse and obtain a smooth easy gait. 

He spent many years teaching leadership skills to young military officers, which has given him a unique insight into the relationship between horse and rider.

As a military commander in Desert Storm, and a Kentucky State Police Detective, he understands that leadership has an important role in training any horse. His ability to break the training down into simple steps is an asset to his teaching style. This approach creates a positive learning experience for the horse and rider.

Gary’s definition of horse training is “the art of influencing and directing your horse to obtain his willing obedience in the accomplishment of a task”. 

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Pat Liquori
El Compañero Bareback Pad, booth 1211

 - Friday, 1-2 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Bareback Riding - Be One in Spirit in Flight
Pat Liquori will share and demonstrate his experience and knowledge of 12 years, riding bareback. He will reinforce the importance and effectiveness of 3 critical elements, center, balance and close contact, that are so emphasized through bareback riding. Pat will demonstrate how a proper seat is achieved and how your feet, legs and seat influence your rhythm with your horse at different gaits and how this rhythm and connectedness can lead us to that of being “One in Spirit in flight”.

Biography

Pat Liquori (Bareback Riding) - A native of central New Jersey and a salon owner/hairstylist by trade, Pat has over 30 years experience with horses (riding and ownership) and developed an expertise in bareback riding over the past 15 years. During this period of time he developed and produced a bareback riding pad, which was initially made for him, but now is manufactured for worldwide distribution and used for both able bodied and handicapped riders (NAHRA).

Pat’s riding philosophy is simple, “Be one with your horse” when riding. He believes this will lead us to the spiritual experience of “connectedness” with our horses and with our surroundings. Pat also believes this is enhanced by close contact and with a secure seat, leading us to our “center” and “balance” on our horse. It is his experience that in this way ultimate “oneness” with one’s horse can be achieved. He has always had a desire to experience riding in a way that he felt was experienced by Native American Indians. Pat was impressed by the “oneness and harmony” they displayed with their mounts.

It was the goal of achieving this “oneness” that motivated Pat to develop his bareback riding pad and naming it “El Compañero” (The “Companion”), which was patented in 2000. With modifications over the years, Pat achieved his goal of “oneness” by the manner in which he rides. He feels that anyone who desires this same outcome can also achieve it.

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Sandy Hart Long
F.I.C.S of Maryland, Inc., booth 2413-2416

  - Friday, 11-12 noon, Main Seminar Hall
The Fundamentals of Footing
Sandy Hart Long has personally advised hundreds of clients, ranging from backyard enthusiasts and beginner riders to large-scale commercial facilities and Olympic champions, on arena construction, footing selection and arena maintenance. Topics covered in this seminar include: considerations prior to building an arena, how to construct a proper base, an overview of surface footing options, how to create a proper maintenance plan and ways to salvage an existing arena. 

Biography

Sandy Hart Long (Footing & Arena Preparation) - With extensive experience as a rider, judge, and instructor, along with over 15 years in the footing industry, Sandy Hart Long brings a comprehensive perspective to the topic of Arena Footing.  She has personally advised hundreds of clients on arena construction, footing selection, and arena maintenance, ranging from backyard enthusiasts and beginner riders to large-scale commercial facilities and Olympic champions. 

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John Lyons
John Lyons Symposiums, booth 2020-2023, 2107-2110

- Thursday, 2-3 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena  
Round Pen 101 - The Basics; Gaining Control and Why
Why, how and when to use the round pen when working with your horse. John will take the mystery out of using body language and help you get on the right track with your horse sooner.

 - Thursday, 4-5 pm, Main Arena
Barn Sour and Buddy Sour - Getting Control of Your Horse
Enjoy training and riding your horse, without the fear of getting hurt, as you work through problems like being barn or buddy sour. There are safe ways to fix these serious problems, ways that you can do. Learn what "ride where you can" is all about.

 - Friday, 1-2 pm, Main Arena   
Trail Riding Must Haves - Crossing Obstacles, De-Spooking and Trail Manners
Avoid the fights at the bridges and creeks; you can learn how to approach these obstacles without a fight for either you or your horse. Learn the method to show your horse how you are going to approach these situations the rest of his life. It will give both of you confidence in each other. How we handle spooks can be fun and beneficial for our horse's performance; turn this negative into a positive situation for you and your horse.

 - Friday, 4-5 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Catching Your Horse and Better Leading
We are all limited on time and there are hundreds of training methods and exercises to choose from on any given day. Get the most benefit from the time you spend with your horse. Understand how you can teach more than one thing at a time, catch, lead and ride the same way.

 - Saturday, 12-1 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Round Pen 201 - Advanced Round Pen Work
Fun is what it is all about! Go where no man has gone before with your horse. You can learn how to teach your horse to not only come to you when you call him, but to trot to you, lope to you and even run to you. Learn how to call him over trail obstacles, jumps and more. It's easy to understand, fun to do and makes the time you spend with your horse more enjoyable.

 - Saturday, 4-5 pm, Main Arena 
Controlling Your Horse's Speed - No Whoa, No Go?
The title says it all. Here are six to eight different exercises that are easy and safe to do that will help teach your horse to go slow, slow down and speed up when you ask, without you or your horse become afraid in the process or having a fight between you.

 - Sunday, 9:15-10 am, University of MD Seminar Hall 
A View of Our Father and Us - A Non-Denominational Church Service
Do we really know our Father in Heaven? We may not be the prodigal younger son, but are we the older brother? Are we a mixture of both boys with their dad. Both brothers missed the boat, and so did I when understanding this parable which Jesus told the Pharisees. Come to the church service Sunday and lets visit about ourselves, our family and our horses. Jody and I just finished a good book entitled “The Prodigal God” by Timothy Keller, you may enjoy it too.

 - Sunday, 11-12 noon, Exhibition Hall Arena
Q & A, Ask "America's Most Trusted Horseman"
Come hear straight simple answers to your questions on how to teach your horse what you want him to do without a fight. There are no times you and your horse have to be at odds, or do you need to scold him, fight him or use methods that cause you to not enjoy spending time with your horse. Come and ask your questions.

- Sunday, 2-3 pm, Main Arena 
Putting the Whoa on Your Horse - Teaching a Better Stop
Here are eight or nine different exercises you can practice with your horse to teach him to respond to your cue to stop. Don’t worry, even if you do these exercises less than perfect or even close to right, they still will improve your stop and help you gain better control of your horse. The exercises are easy and fun to do.

Biography

John Lyons (General Training) - is one of the most respected trainers around the world. He is known as “America’s Most Trusted Horseman” and he has earned that title through almost 29 years of dedication to horses and horse owners. His ideas and concepts in horse training have influenced every level of performance, every style of riding and every breed of horse throughout the world. His ideas and work have directly changed thousands of lives. John’s sincere regard for people and the horses they love has remained unchanged throughout his career.

John has been honored by many facets of the horse industry including universities, breed associations, horse clubs, magazines, cities and states for his contributions and dedication to the horse and the industry. John reaches out to people through The John Lyons’ Perfect Horse Magazine and has touched the lives of millions of people throughout the years. 

John continues to be one of the most sought after trainers, speakers, demonstrators and clinicians in the United States and abroad. There is hardly an expo in the country or around the world where you will not find John, his children Josh and Brandi or one of their certified trainers as a guest clinician.

Thirteen years ago John developed his certified trainer program that has graduated almost 300 trainers. This program had grown to be one of the top programs in the country for producing great clinicians, trainers and teachers. Today, this training program is taught by one of the top trainers in the world, John’s son, Josh Lyons. 

One of the sweetest girls in the world (according to John) and his love is his wife Jody. They live and work in Parachute, Colorado on “Our Dream Ranch.” Their door is always open to everyone and you are invited to stop by anytime. 

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Boyd Martin
Boyd Martin Eventing
West Grove, PA

 Friday, 2-3 pm, Main Arena
Eventing - Fine Tune Your Horse's Ridablility and Adjustability Over Fences

 - Friday, 6-7 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Finding Your Next Event Horse and Getting Fit for Competition

 - Saturday, 11-noon, Main Arena 
Training for Cross Country at Home - Steps for Building and Using a Home Course 

 - Saturday, 1-2 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Training Techniques to Get Your Young Horse Started in Eventing

Biography

Boyd Martin (Eventing) - Born in New South Wales, Australia, Boyd completed his schooling in 1997, obtained his NCAS Level 1 Coaching certificate in 1998 and his Horsemanship Certificate 1 at the NSW Equestrian Centre in 1998. Boyd worked at the New South Wales Equestrian Centre from 1999 until the end of 2006. In the beginning he was employed by Heath Ryan and then in 1999 he formed his own company, Windurra Australia Pty Ltd., where he trains event horses, breaks young horses, coaches and breeds performance horses.

Boyd's greatest competitive moment was winning the Adelaide CCI **** in 2003, riding True Blue Toozac. The event was the Olympic selection trials for the 2004 Athens Olympics and the last long-format four-star event ever held.

A four-star eventing competitor, Boyd has already made his mark in the US by finishing seventh overall on the US Eventing Association's Rider of the Year Leader board with a total of 306 points for 2007.  This is an all-time record for a rider debuting in the United States.  His 120 starts in competition in 2007 include 19 wins, 15 second place finishes and 13 third place finishes. Boyd finished 2007 in style by finishing second on Ying Yang Yo and fourth on Neville Bardos at the Fair Hill International CCI***(MD).  These performances placed Boyd and both horses on the short-list for the Australian Olympic team.

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Harold McKenzie, DVM, MS 
Assistant Professor of Equine Medicine
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 

  - Saturday, 5-6 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
Emerging Issues in Equine Parasite Management

Biography

Harold McKenzie (Parasite Management) - received his DVM degree from The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1990. Following graduation he joined Moncacy Equine Veterinary Associates, a private equine practice in Montgomery County, MD where he practiced until 1995. Dr. McKenzie entered the Equine Internal Medicine Residency program at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in January of 1995. Upon completion of the residency program Dr. McKenzie served as a Clinical Instructor in Equine Medicine at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center from 1998 to 2003. Dr. McKenzie received a Master of Sciences degree in Veterinary Medical Sciences from the Virginia/Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine in 1998, and achieved Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine in 2000. In 2003 he was promoted to his current position as an Assistant Professor in Equine Medicine at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center . Dr. McKenzie is the author or coauthor of 10 journal articles and has several book chapters in press. His research interests include aerosol therapy, respiratory disease, critical care and endocrinology. 

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Julio Mendoza
FHANA - Friesian Horse Assoc. Of N.A., booth B6

 


  Thursday, 2-3 pm, Main Arena
Achieving Balance and Collection

Biography

Julio Mendoza (Dressage) - is a top FEI International Trainer and Instructor and is proud to be training exclusively at The Stables at Rolling Ridge.  Julio has trained horses for over 19 years in Dressage, Driving, Keurings Inspections and Jumping.  He has competed in the International Cup held in South America 5 years in a row, always placing in the top 5.  In 2007, he finished 3rd out of hundreds at the SA Rolex with his 8 year old Hanoverian Gelding, Gramero.  

Julio specializes in competitive dressage and dressage-based horsemanship and he has trained and competed with several horses up to Grand Prix Level.   Julio is an experienced dressage trainer that can help you and your horse achieve your training and competition goals.  Julio emphasizes training correctly from the beginning in order to achieve true harmony between the horse and rider. His students have enjoyed success at all levels of showing.  

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Courtney Molino, ESMT, CMT, CCRA
Hands on Horses, booth 1510


  - Saturday, 9:15-10 am, Main Seminar Hall 
  - Sunday, 11-12 noon, Main Seminar Hall
  
The Basics of Equine Massage
Whether you want to increase the performance of your equine athlete, bring relief to your older horse or simply pamper your pony, learning the basics of equine massage can improve the overall well-being of your horse while reducing the risk of future injuries.

Biography

Courtney Molino, ESMT, CMT, CCRA (Massage Therapy for Horses) - Hands on Horses LLC, founded by Courtney Molino, ESMT, CMT, CCRA, is an equine massage practice dedicated to promoting the overall wellness of competitive and companion animals.

Courtney received her certification in equine sports massage and canine massage from Equissage, the world’s oldest animal massage certification program. Prior to Equissage, Courtney studied equine science and anatomy at Virginia Tech. Courtney is also certified in canine rehabilitation therapy by the Canine Rehabilitation Institute in Florida. She recently completed a private study program in equine myofascial release and is excited to add that therapy to the list of services offered by Hands on Horses. 

Courtney has been active in the equine and canine communities for more than 20 years as an owner, trainer and competitor. She is a frequent presenter of massage clinics and demonstrations for organizations including the Horse World Expo, Purina Mills, the Coventry School for Dogs and Their People and several agility, search and rescue and pony clubs throughout the region. Courtney has been featured in numerous publications, including the Horse Journal, The Washington Post, Howard Magazine, WTOP Radio, Pennsylvania Equestrian and The Horse of Delaware Valley. 

In addition to providing equine massage services at stables and racetracks throughout Maryland, Courtney sees patients at the Veterinary Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Group, a practice specializing in canine orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. 

Courtney is a member of the International Association of Animal Massage Therapists and the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork. She also serves as a member on the Maryland Horse Council. 

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John Nunn
Bit of Britain, Space B

  - Saturday, 3-4 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall  
Sponsorship: How to Get It and How to Keep It

Biography

John Nunn (Gaining Sponsorship) -  was born into a family of horseman. Raised in Rochester NY, he grew up on a very active 300 acre horse farm with up to 60 horses on the farm. The family did everything from hunters to jumpers, breeding and school horses. Riding jumpers as a child, he moved toward thoroughbred racing when his father took up the position as a full time thoroughbred trainer at Finger Lakes Race Track when John was 14. For the next 20 years John worked galloping and breaking racehorses as well as being the assistant trainer under his dad and then on to a successful training career of his own. After settling down in the Fair Hill, Maryland area, he purchased a racetrack tack shop and over the last 20 years has developed it to be one of the largest tack shops and on line stores in the US today. 

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Joel Nupp, EQDT
Joel Nupp - Friendship Equine Dental Services, booth 115

  - Saturday, 10-11am, University of MD Seminar Hall  
The Importance of Equine Dentistry
Come join Joel as he discusses the importance of Equine dentistry for your horse's overall attitude and health. Joel will explain the cost effectiveness of having your horses' teeth regularly floated. With the cost of feed going up and as a multiple horse owner himself, Joel understands how saving even a hundred dollars a year can help. He will also explain the difference between a basic hand float vs. a power performance float and how the difference of a well balanced mouth can improve the horse's attitude while performing.

Biography

Joel Nupp, EQDT (Equine Dentistry) -  is a graduate of The American School of Equine Dentistry and a member of the International Association of Equine Dentistry. Joel was born and raised on a farm where he acquired his love for horses. He attained a sense of dedication while training and breaking Quarter Horses at the age of 14. Joel was in the Pre-Vet Science program at University of Maryland and attained a two year degree in agriculture. He is always willing and eager to share his knowledge and experience with his clients and various horse associations. Joel has a special way with horses, which makes it an easy and comfortable experience for the horse. He has 9 horses on his farm in Westminster, MD and enjoys trail riding and caring for his equine family.

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Erin Ochoa
Days End Farm Horse Rescue, booth 205, 206, B7, B8

 - Thursday, 1-2 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall  
Adoption and Re-homing
Thousands of horses end up at rescue farms every year. Learn the many reasons horses wind up in rescues and the steps a horse takes as it get ready for adoption. During this lecture you will take an in-depth look at what types of horses are available at rescue farms. Find out what to look for in choosing your rescue horse; from making the first contact to taking your first ride and what you should expect when you bring your rescue horse home. If you have considered adoption, this lecture will give you answers and help you take the next step in finding your perfect horse. Participants of this lecture will receive a $100 off adoption fee coupon at Days End Farm Horse Rescue.

Biography

Erin Ochoa (Horse Rescue, Unwanted Horse Issues) - has been involved with horses all her life.  She grew up actively involved with the U.S. Pony Club and U.S. Dressage Federation Young Riders.  She has worked in many areas of horse rescue, including investigation, impoundment, rescue, rehabilitation and adoption.  Erin, who is now Director of Programs for Days End Farm Horse Rescue, has assisted in placing 175 horses into homes during the past five years.

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Erin Pittman, MS, PAS
Lecturer/Extension Horse Specialist
Institute of Applied Agriculture

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Sunday, 12-1 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Transitioning the Retired Racehorse to a New Life
Retired Thoroughbreds are a common mount for many disciplines after their racing careers are over. However, the care they received at the track and what they receive as pleasure or competition horses is very different from nutrition and turn-out to hoof care and common ailments. Learn how to make your new horse's transition to a different way of life a little easier.

Biography

Erin Pittmanwas born and raised in Loveland, Colorado. She earned a BA degree in Political Science from The University of Colorado in 1994. She also holds a BS degree in Equine Science from Colorado State University (2000). Pittman remained at Colorado State University, earning an MS degree in Animal Science in 2001. Her research focus was aimed at investigating nutrition of the growing horse as it relates to bone development. Ms. Pittman is a state Extension Horse Specialist and the Program Coordinator and Advisor for the 2-year Equine Business Management Program at the Institute of Applied Agriculture. She teaches courses in Equine Nutrition, Health Management, Reproduction and Behavior and has taught a course in Pasture Management in the past. Erin lives with her husband, Steuart Pittman and twin sons, Andy and Sam, on a horse farm in Anne Arundel County where she enjoys riding her horses for pleasure, low-level eventing and fox hunting.  

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Steuart Pittman, Jr.
Retired Racehorse Training Project - Dodon Farm, booth S4

 - Thursday, 3-4 pm, Main Arena 
Starting the Retired Racehorse in a New Career
While riding a horse that recently left the track, Steuart will work with students on their recent track acquisitions and demonstrate how effective riding and consistent aids allow these horses to learn their new jobs easily and quickly. Expect gorgeous horses with ecstatic new owners, and maybe a bit of that good old Thoroughbred flight instinct coming through. Smiles all around.

 - Thursday, 5-6 pm, Main Seminar Hall  
What Racehorses Know and How You Can Build on It
Steuart will compare notes with a racehorse trainer on what horses know coming off the track and how we can use that information as we train them for other careers. What role does the bit play? The leg? Jogging versus trotting? Galloping versus cantering? Race track horsemen understand the mind of a horse in ways many of us have never considered. Let's learn from them.

 - Friday, 11-noon, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Selecting a Horse Off the Track
Steuart will simulate a shopping trip to the racetrack. He will have horses to evaluate and will role play the discussion with the trainer who is selling the horse. Expect a few good laughs and some great tips on how to find just the right horse at just the right price. 


 - Friday, 4-5 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Retraining Racehorses for Sale: the Economics and Opportunities
Steuart will discuss the costs, the market and the process of acquiring, training and selling Thoroughbred horses off the track. This is the business that allowed him and many of his peers to become established professional trainers. He believes that in this economy the opportunities are greater than ever.

 - Friday, 7-7:45 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Steuart Pittman and a Racing Industry Panel: Saving Thoroughbred Racing in Maryland
This will be an update on the transfer of Jockey Club ownership and on slots and a strategy session to help direct the Maryland Horse Council and the major players in the industry on how to proceed in the grass-roots campaign to preserve racing in Maryland.

 - Saturday, 12-1 pm, Main Arena  
Jumping the Retired Racehorse
Steuart will work with a group of riders on off-the-track Thoroughbreds showing how the natural instincts of a racehorse can be harnessed to produce safe and athletic performances over fences. You will see how good rider balance and good hands creates a comfort zone for the horse that makes training over fences a game that Thoroughbreds love to play.

 - Sunday, 2-3 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
What Jockeys Know That the Rest of Us Should Learn
With the help of a very entertaining jockey, Steuart will explain the similarities between the incredible balance and tact of race riding and the kind of balance the rest of us need to simply ride effectively in any discipline. Watch Steuart attempt to ride in his new exercise saddle and see how the jockey does in a dressage saddle!

Biography

Steuart Pittman, Jr. (Retired Racehorse Training Project) - is based at Dodon Farm in Davidsonville, MD, where he breeds and trains horses primarily for eventing. He is best known as the owner and rider of America's only living Thoroughbred stallion to have evented successfully at the Advanced level. This stallion, Salute the Truth, is a retired racehorse and now a very popular sire of sport horses.

Steuart grew up riding retired racehorses and was able to become a professional by selling horses that he acquired from Mid-Atlantic tracks.

In recent years demand for Steuart as a clinician has grown to the point that he has turned to large venues where he can educate and entertain audiences who are eager to hear the training methods of a professional 
eventer put into language that fascinates even non-riders. He was a lead clinician at the major expos last year in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and North Carolina. Steuart also uses his energy, vision and 
ability to inspire people as President of the Maryland Horse Council.

Steuart is married to Erin Pittman, who heads the Equine Program at the University of Maryland's Institute of Applied Agriculture and is father to Jesse Pittman who is away at college. Steuart and Erin became very proud parents of twin boys, Sam and Andy, on August 13 of this year. They already have rocking horses.

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Scott Purdum
Advantage Horsemanship, booth 1515, 1516, 1605, 1606

 - Friday, 5-6 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
How to Get the Quiet Western Pleasure Horse of Your Dreams

 - Saturday, 1-2 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Finding That Perfect Headset

 - Sunday, 9:15-10 am, Exhibition Hall Arena  
Trail Riding Problems and How to Fix Them

Biography

Scott Purdum (General Training) - has owned, ridden, and worked around horses all his life. He started riding at age 3 and immediately his parents recognized his love and natural abilities towards these animals. A few months after he had been taking lessons under the guidance of his trainer Jill Price, Scott became anxious to get his own horse. After a brief search Scott picked out his first horse which his parents purchased for him. Scott began his show career at age 6 and has continued riding and showing hunters and pleasure horses since. He attended the University of MD for 1 year as a student in their Equine Management Program. He also worked as an intern with a top rated Quarter Horse trainer, Ken Adkins, in West Virginia, whom he also assisted at the AQHA Congress in Ohio . Scott has dedicated himself recently to bringing horses and people together through mutual respect and trust.

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Beverly Raymond

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 


  - Friday, 12-1 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Realities of the Unwanted Horse
  

Biography

Beverly Raymond (The Unwanted Horse) - Beverly Raymond's quiet and subtle influence on the horse community in Maryland will last for generations to come. It is for this reason Beverly was awarded with the Anne Pumphrey "Unsung Hero" Memorial Award at the 1999 Maryland Horsemen's Party.

Beverly has been riding since childhood and learned horsemanship by reading and trying. She received her first horse, an ex barrel racing horse aptly name "Stampede," for her sixteenth birthday. When the family purchased a small farm, Beverly started a small boarding stable to help support her horses. At that time she started her first riding lessons with Jim Monie and eventually started eventing. She was an early member of MCTA. She enrolled in the recently established Maryland Animal Hospital Technician Certification program. Beverly has been a State inspector of riding and boarding stables and veterinary hospitals for the Maryland Department of Agriculture since the late 1970's. Beverly has been a kind and able force in the community assisting stable owners in the quest to provide good care for their horses - always with a smile and a warm work of encouragement. Beverly has been a quiet and persistent storm in not only the humane care of horses but also the protection, promotion and perpetuation of the Maryland horse industry. She was a founding member of the Maryland Horse Council and has been a dedicated worker for their programs. She spearheads programs for the Maryland Department of Agriculture such as "Maryland You Are Beautiful," Christmas tree programs and many beautification programs. Beverly received a Governor's Citation for her work with "Maryland You Are Beautiful." "If anybody had any idea how much this woman does," declared old friend and supporter Debbie Rollins-Frank of Rendez-Vous Farm," ... well, it's just incredible." "...her quality of giving, her volunteerism, is a lost art."

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Caroline Rider
Caroline Rider Horsemanship, booth 2309

 - Friday, 6-7 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Achieving More Confidence and Control When Riding a Challenging Horse 
With one of her horses, Caroline will demonstrate why creating a routine or program at home works best for building confidence in you and your horse. She will demonstrate specific exercises and approaches for dealing with unconfident, spooky and or willful horses and also discuss the fundamental principles of reading and understanding horse behavior. This demonstration will be open for Q&A.

 - Saturday, 6-7 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Tao of Horsemanship Approach to Being and Doing With Horses
Caroline will demonstrate her method of training horses and humans in "oneness". This approach creates a level of connection between you and your horse (both on the ground and while riding), that allows for all possibilities in trust, partnership, harmony and ultimate unity. Caroline will also discuss reading and understanding the many subtle exchanges of body language and communication our horses offer to us. She will further explain what their language means and how we can work with what our horses express (their nature), thus creating the "path of least resistance" when working with them. Her approach is designed to develop the ultimate bond and join up between horse and human by instilling deep levels of connection, confidence, trust and willing partnership.

 - Sunday, 4-5 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Foundation Exercises for Starting and Restarting Horses
With one of her horses, Caroline will demonstrate what makes her foundation training program so successful with both young, green horses and horses that need to be restarted or rehabilitated. Working with one of her horses that has never been exposed to an expo environment, the audience will see the effectiveness of her approach in acquiring the fundamental elements to creating a calm, connected, partnering horse. Caroline will also discuss reading and understanding your horse's nature and how her approach, combined with her 9 online exercises, can transform your horse regardless of their age, experience or temperament.

Biography  

Caroline Rider (Natural Horsemanship) - Caroline has spent her entire life around horses, beginning with her first lesson at the age of 4. As a young girl she showed and worked locally for a riding instructor while taking care of her beloved, backyard equine Brandy. It was during this time that her view of being, and working with horses began to shift, motivating her to seek a more harmonious way in which to be with them and communicate her requests when training and working. 

As an early teen, Caroline spent much of her time observing horses and sketching them in her journals. She attributes her passion for drawing and painting to being inspired by nature, especially the horse in all its magnificence. Her desire to learn prompted her to question the purpose of all things and there interrelatedness to one another. Caroline’s craving for more knowledge led her to seek out many different philosophies on horsemanship, levels of consciousness and spirituality. Two of the most influential readings for her were the Black Stallion Series and books she found at the library on Taoism: an Eastern Philosophy that teaches the many depths of spiritual authenticity through living in the present and with consciousness. Between reading, sketching, observing horses, and spending all day with her own horse in the summer months, Caroline was soon on her way to discovering what she knows and teaches today – mutual trust and acceptance are the keys to acquiring true partnership and leadership with our horses. 

It wasn’t until her early thirties that Caroline was able to support her enthusiasm for horses and re-enter the equine industry, specifically the very well publicized world of Natural Horsemanship. She felt a kinship to the teachings of many of the well-known and leading clinicians and spent much of her time absorbed in their practices while cultivating her own style and approach to Being and doing with horses. 

Caroline’s Tao of Horsemanship™ Approach to Being and doing with horses is what separates her today from most natural horsemanship clinicians. This approach combines 3 core foundations to horsemanship: natural horsemanship beliefs and techniques, classical dressage principles and Taoism – a way of being and interacting with horses mindfully. Caroline’s method helps to identify awareness within us that allow for all possibilities with our horses. With awareness comes the opportunity to identify “where we need to be for our horse, when we are needed (timing) and why.” This is crucial to creating and nurturing deep levels of acceptance, trust, connection, communication, partnership and leadership with our horses.  

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David C. Roseman, DAEP, MIAEP
Degreed Applied Equine Podiatrist
Licensed Instructor, Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry

  - Thursday, 6-7 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena 
Whole Horse Hoof Care
Strong, healthy feet do not start below the coronary band, nor do they depend on "good genes."  There is much we can do as horse owners and hoof care providers to help our horses achieve the best feet possible.  In this clinic you will see a live demonstration of hoof care techniques on a rescue horse in rehabilitation and explore the importance of good nutrition and health care, regular exercise, proper paddock environment and sound hoof care practices in achieving and maintaining healthy feet in our horses.

  - Sunday, 4-5 pm, Main Seminar Hall
How Healthy are Your Horses' Feet? (Really)
How often have we heard that a particular horse has "good" or "bad" feet?  Or that it has "shelly" hoof walls, "long toes," "low heels," "stress" rings, "weak" or "ratty" frogs?  We've all heard those and other terms from time to time.  What should we really be looking for when evaluating true hoof health?  In this interactive session we will learn key structures to examine, some surprising and exciting explanations for what we observe and some important steps we can take as horse owners and hoof care providers to change and improve the health of our horses' feet.  

Biography 

David C. Roseman, DAEP, MIAEP (Whole Horse Hoof Care) - is a Degreed Applied Equine Podiatrist and a Licensed Instructor for the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry of Old Town, Florida.  He is based in Great Falls, VA and maintains an active practice in equine hoof care in Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia.  He travels and consults on problem cases in other regions as well.  He believes that the science-based principles and practices of Applied Equine Podiatry, pioneered by KC La Pierre, RJF, MEP, PhD, offer the best hope for long-term soundness and performance regardless of whether the horse is to be shod or left unshod.  His love of horses has led him to use his communication and teaching skills to help make Applied Equine Podiatry accessible to all wishing to learn about it.  David is also an attorney licensed in Virginia, New York and the District of Columbia and has practiced law for over 30 years.

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Heath Ryan 
Ryans at Newcastle Equestrian Centre
Heatherbrae, NSW, Australia

 - Friday, 12-1 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Taking Charge of Your Destiny - Don't Be Afraid to Dream; Are the Olympics in Your Future?
Take charge of your destiny, especially if you secretly would like to go to the Olympics. The Olympics are full of average people who have not only dreamed of riding for their country, but who have taken the unusual step of actioning their dreams. Actioning your dreams is in fact, nothing more than dedication and most importantly intellectual understanding of the influencing factors and how you as an individual are able to deal with each factor in the appropriate order, to dare to dream and be brave enough to realize your dream.

 - Friday,  3-4 pm, Main Arena   
The Grand Prix - From Good Rider to Elite Rider, You Can Make the Journey
The message is that the average good rider can find a pathway to being an elite Grand Prix rider. Ryan feels strongly that this is an information journey as opposed to the common belief that a Grand Prix outcome is solely for the individual with a rarified talent.

 - Saturday,  2-3 pm, Main Arena
Influencing the Horse From Inside Leg to Outside Rein - Better Performance With Subtle Changes
This demonstration revolves around influencing the horse from the inside leg into the outside rein in a subtle but significant way and how to actually measure one’s success or lack of. The problem with subtlety is that most people confuse it with non-performance. Subtlety must not be at odds with the truth and is indeed the key to very exciting and advanced worlds.

 - Saturday, 4-5 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Breeding and Selecting the Next Olympic Champion or Elite Performance Horse
The nature of competition at the Olympics is changing and this definitely impacts on selecting an appropriate Olympic horse. Ryan is very involved in the breeding of both dressage and eventing horses with a view to Olympic participation and better still with the goal of Olympic Gold Medals. This topic is about trying to orchestrate the appropriate genetics which are, firstly, able to participate at this level and, secondly, to produce individuals who have inherited talents beyond those horses currently being ridden in competition. 

Biography

Heath Ryan (Dressage) - Heath was a member of the 2008 Australian Dressage Team for the Beijing Olympic Games and his wife, Rozzie, was named as the First Reserve rider for the same team. On three occasions Heath has been Assistant Coach for the Australian Olympic Eventing team, 1996 at the Atlanta Olympics where Australia won Gold, 2000 at the Sydney Olympics where Australia again won Gold and then at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Heath has, on three different occasions, been the Australian Three Day Event Champion and he is currently the reigning Australian Grand Prix Dressage Champion.

Heath has also trained riders from many countries. In 1998, Heath focused on coaching the Thai Eventing team and this team went on to win the Team Gold medal, the Individual Silver medal, and the Individual Bronze medal at the 1998 Asian Equestrian Games. Riders come from all over the world to base and train with Heath. A huge number of Australia's leading riders have spent time working and training with him.

Heath is a great believer in "winning" and as a result has been involved with the Ryan's horse breeding program for some 30 years. Basically Heath and his wife, Rozzie, have raided the best genetics from all over the world and continue to bring them together in a program focused solely on producing Gold Medal horses. Producing Olympic horses is in Heath's opinion very different from producing commercial horses or horses capable of winning Young Horse classes. Heath feels that very few people understand this and he uses this to his advantage.

Both Heath and Rozzie have a collection of perhaps the best staff in the World and they attribute this to the fact that no one is hired in the capacity of being a groom. All staff other than office personnel are current riders training to be Olympians. Most week mornings start at 6am with Heath teaching one of the staff. Most weekends find Heath, Rozzie and most of the staff competing across Australia.

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Neva Kittrell Scheve 
EquiSpirit, booth Space K

 - Friday, 5-6 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Your Horse Trailer and Tow Vehicle - Doing it Right
This lecture will discuss fitting your horse(s) to the right trailer and finding the optimum tow vehicle to safely handle the load. This lecture will provide an overview of what you need to know about tow vehicles, hitches and horse trailers in order to reduce risks on the road.

 - Saturday, 10-11 am, Main Seminar Hall  
Keeping Your Horse Healthy and Safe on the Road
Through preventative measures, learn how to reduce the risk of accident and injury to both you and your horse(s) when trailering. Tips on keeping your horse comfortable, healthy and happy when hauling on short or long trips.

Biography

Neva Kittrell Scheve (Trailer & Tow Vehicle Selection & Safety) – is the author of three nationally acclaimed books on horse trailers: Horse Trailering on the Road, Equine Emergencies on the Road (with James Hamilton, DVM), and The Complete Guide to Buying, Maintaining, and Servicing a Horse Trailer. Neva’s lifelong commitment to promoting safety includes a schedule of horse trailer safety clinics and continual articles for national horse publications such as Horse Illustrated, Dressage Today, Equus and Practical Horseman. Neva, along with her husband Tom, are also continual contributors to USRiders on-line newsletter. 

Neva has designed horse trailers for manufacturers such as McQuerry, Merhow, Hawk, and Trail-et. She was the first to design a straight load trailer (1987) that utilized a standard 6’8" interior width along with a 7’6" interior height to accommodate warmblood horses (EquiSport). Other unique designs include the EquiSpirit 3H SafeLoad, which many manufacturers are now adopting into their model lines. Her newest trailer design is a one horse with Living Quarters that was designed for EquiSpirit.

During Neva’s 45 year involvement with horses, she has competed in hunter jumping, three day eventing, dressage and carriage driving. Besides writing, she gives horse trailer seminars at national events such as Horse World Expo, Equitana USA, Equine Affaire, National Pony Club annual meetings, Pony Club Festival and NTRA. 

Neva was instrumental in developing the Moore County Equine Emergency Response Unit and is an active member of the Veterinary Medical Assistance Team (VMAT), which is affiliated with the AVMA and FEMA. She was part of the search and rescue team that assisted in large animal rescue. In the process, she designed an Equine Ambulatory Unit that was successfully used in aiding and rescuing horses during the disastrous flooding from hurricane Floyd in eastern North Carolina in 1999. 

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Tom Seay 
Best of America by Horseback TV show,  booth 116, 117

 - Thursday, 4-5 pm, Main Seminar Hall   
Practical Ways to Save and Preserve Trails and How to Develop New Ones
This lecture will explain the simple but highly effective things anyone can do to create new trails and preserve existing ones.

 - Friday, 2-3 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
How to Pick the Right Outfitter or Equestrian Travel Company
This lecture will give you a simple check list explaining what to ask and what to look for to avoid a vacation disaster.

 - Saturday, 2-3 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Tips and Techniques Essential to All Trail Riders
This discussion will explain the things that make a trail ride the greatest experience.

 - Sunday, 12-1 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Tales From the Trail - The Mexico to Canada Ride
From the Trailmaster himself, hear all about the trip, experience the beauty through Tom's eyes and relive the experience with him.

Biography

Tom Seay (Best of America by Horseback) – Tom has had horses since he was 5 years old. He traveled America, taking people on overnight horseback vacations for nineteen years as a professional horseback outfitter. His largest accomplishment, as an outfitter, was organizing and leading “The American Transcontinental Trail Ride” in 1995. Pursuing a longtime dream, and after a year of logistical planning, Tom successfully lead a group of horseback riders and wagons over 3,000 miles, every step of the way on horseback, from Savannah, Georgia, on the East Coast, to San Diego, California on the West Coast. The trip took four and a half months. Tom was hosted by 83 towns with 256 riders participating on parts of the trip, including Mayors, Chiefs of Police and the Texas Rangers. Former President Jimmy Carter taught the group Sunday School as the trail ride passed through Plains, Georgia.

One of Tom’s past careers included owning three cable television stations during the infancy of the cable industry. He hosted, directed and produced television programs for twelve years, specializing in outdoor sports programs. His experience in television and his love for traveling with horses and trail riding all over the country lead to his current television series Best of America by Horseback.

Tom is a graduate of the University of Richmond. Besides producing the Best of America by Horseback television series, Tom is a full time farmer in Virginia. While his years as an outdoorsman are well known, it is unknown to the public that Tom played a key role in back channel negotiations on the international stage. His genuine "down home" farm boy personality and great sense of humor makes you feel like you’ve known him for years.

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Jane Seigler

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Sunday, 11-12 am, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Finding, Managing and Keeping Great Employees for Your Horse Business  
Most equine business owner/operators would probably agree that the most difficult aspect of running their business is finding and keeping good help. Reliable employees with appropriate training are hard to find and the realities of equine business economics often make low pay and high burnout unavoidable. Ms. Seigler will share thoughts and insights gained from 40 years in the business and professional world, 25 of which has been in running a large lesson and boarding stable. She will discuss how to maximize your chances of finding and keeping good employees.

Biography

Jane Seigler  -  A graduate of Brown University and Rutgers University Law School, Jane had thirteen years of private practice in Washington, D.C. as an antitrust and utility litigator and as Government Affairs Counsel of a major corporation, before “retiring” from active practice to devote full time to being chief operating officer of Reddemeade Farm, Inc., one of the largest commercial riding stables in Maryland. Reddemeade offers riding lessons to over 300 students, riding club memberships to approximately 50 riders, boarding for approximately 25 privately owned horses and a summer day camp for children. In all, Reddemeade stables approximately 70 horses. Jane supervises a staff of about 20 employees (instructors, trainers and farm hands) and devotes full time to the operation of the farm. In addition to daily management, she also teaches lessons and rides, trains and competes in dressage. She is a United States Dressage Federation Silver Medalist and has extensive experience in competition at the FEI levels.

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Brenda Senseney
Old Dominion Endurance Rides/ECTRA, booth 1309

  - Friday, 3-4 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Competitive Trail Riding - the Modern Cavalry?
It’s not endurance, it’s not a race, all breeds are welcome! Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association (ECTRA) judges/members will describe the sport of CTRs and how distance trail riding will benefit you and your horse. Improve your knowledge of horse care, stress management and have FUN while riding 10 to 40 miles in one day!

  - Saturday, 5-6 pm, Main Seminar Hall
What is Endurance Riding? Prepare Yourself and Your Horse
Prepare yourself and your horse for 50-100 mile one-day American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) competitions. “To Finish Is To Win” and “To Race or Not to Race”. How to prepare for that first 50 mile ride. Decisions, decisions – managing your horse for that day’s competition, terrain and weather and tips for competing a non-Arabian – yes, you can ride 50 miles!

Biography

Brenda Senseney (Endurance, Competitive Trail Riding) - Brenda has been distance riding for over 30 years with over 13,000 miles in both competitive trail and endurance. She rides mounted on Appaloosas, Tennessee Walking horses and horses cross-bred with Arabians or Thoroughbreds. Brenda is a current member of Eastern Competitive Trail Ride Association (ECTRA) and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC). These two organizations sanction over 100 rides annually in the Northeast region with distances of 25 to 100 miles. She has trained and competed three Appaloosas to ApHC Distance National Championships and one Tennessee Walking Horse to five TWHBEA Distance Riding National Championships. Brenda also has over 25 years experience as an ECTRA lay judge and she has held distance riding clinics and seminars for horse clubs and 4-H groups for over 20 years. Brenda is currently residing with her husband Greg and three horses in Knoxville, MD.

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Rick Shaffer
 

  - Friday, 4-5 pm, Main Arena
How to Ride and Train the Gaited Horse
In this demo, you will learn the difference between gaited and non-gaited horses as well as differences between gaited breeds. You will also learn how to ride and train gaited horses and how to start the gaited horses under saddle. 

  - Friday, 7-7:30 pm, Main Arena
A Celebration of the Gaited Horse
Several gaited horse breeds will be highlighted in this fun and educational demonstration explaining the differences and similarities between the gaited horse breeds and their unique way of going.

Biography

Rick Shaffer (Gaited Horses ) - has trained horses for twenty-five years. He came up through the 4-H program, which ultimately led to his pursuit of a career with horses. He specializes in training, breeding, showing and judging Paso Finos. He has trained over five hundred horses of many breeds including Tennessee Walking Horse, Rocky Mountain, Peruvian Paso, Quarter Horse, Morgan and Arabian. In 2008, in one of the highlights of his career, he judged the Grand National Paso Fino Show in Perry, Georgia. In 2009, Rick competed at the Grand Nationals and presented a clinic on the Gait. 

Rick and his wife Suzette have three children - Jena (16), Anni (10) and Justin (7), all of whom participate in horse activities from showing to trail riding. Rick currently operates a training stable where he trains show horses to pleasure horses year round. He also has two breeding stallions.

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Sandy Siegrist
HorseThink, booth 2305

  - Friday, 11-12 noon, University of MD Seminar Hall
Natural Horse Keeping
Would you like to learn how to keep your horse more naturally? Do you worry about giving vaccinations? Are you concerned about the impact on your horse’s body from the frequent use of chemical wormers? Learn what your horse wants you to know about his feeding program, alternative therapies, shoes vs. barefoot, etc. So many of our horses have chronic health problems or are simply not performing at their optimal levels. And much of the issue is grounded in what we feed them and how we manage their health and living conditions. Come explore age-old techniques for helping you manage your horse’s environment more naturally.

Biography

Sandy Siegrist (Holistic Healthcare for the Horse) - is a life-long horsewoman who practices natural horsemanship, healing and horse care techniques. Her riding experience includes eventing, show jumping and fox hunting as well as casual trail rides. She has worked with seeing eye dogs and rehabilitated retired racing greyhounds. She works with clients throughout the United States to evaluate their feeding and horsekeeping programs based on their horse’s specific needs. In addition, she does energy work and overall health analyses on horses and dogs, often taking in horses for more extensive rehabilitation. Her approach to horse care is based on natural and alternative therapy techniques and incorporates the use of bio-energy testing, cranio-sacral therapy, acupressure, kinetics, herbs and flower essences among others. Sandy’s lectures and articles address nutrition, hoof care, bodywork, worming and vaccinations and emotional well-being that are grounded in maintaining a more natural environment and healthcare practices for your horses and dogs.

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Jan Snodgrass, TEAM/TTouch Practitioner 2
Jan Snodgrass, TTeam and TTouch Training, booth 2214

  - Thursday, 4-5 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Softening Your Horse's Resistance Using TTeam/TTouch Methods
Jan Snodgrass shows you TTouches and unique ground exercises that soften the horse’s body, gets his attention and enhances his understanding of how to respond to your requests.

  - Saturday, 4-5 pm, Exhibition Hall Arena
Overcoming Your Horse's Fear Using TTeam/TTouch Methods
Jan shows you a step-by-step process that will overcome your horse’s fearful reactions by calm association without sacking out, flooding or flagging. These simple exercises will help your horse become safer to rid

  - Sunday, 2-3 pm, Main Seminar Hall
Ten Steps to a Calmer Horse Using TTeam/TTouch Methods
Jan presents ten things you probably have not thought of which you can do to calm your horse, enhance his learning ability, make him easier to work with and more enjoyable to be around.

Biography

Jan Snodgrass  (TTeam Method Training) -  has a 35-year background riding, training and competing horses. She has competed through advanced level 3-day eventing and third level dressage. For the past 20 years Jan has used the training methods developed by world renowned instructor and behaviorist, Linda Tellington-Jones to train, retrain, rehabilitate and restore horse’s bodies and minds. Jan is a self described, “Horse Listener,” always seeking to understand and enhance the unique connection that can exist between humans and our wonderful equine friends.

Just as her mentor, Linda Tellington-Jones, Jan recognizes horses as intelligent beings and as individuals with an inherent willingness to please people but for the obstacles placed in their way. Jan strives to teach people how to eliminate these common obstacles and how to develop a strong bond with their horses with a deeper level of awareness. Though she works with all types of horses, Jan has focused on reschooling off-the-track Thoroughbreds for the past several years. In fact her first horse that she received at age 14 was a 17 hand four-year old off the track. Jan has a series on her web site called, “Reschooling the Thoroughbred” which stars “Xcellent Adventure” an ex-race horse she purchased at a VA slaughter sale.

Jan is best known in Expo circles for her musical bridleless jumping exhibitions with her former event horse, Harry Who? Harry is now semi-retired at age 24. Jan is working to develop a liberty act with Xcellent Adventure.

When not busy with her own horses or those she trains, Jan volunteers her time working with horses rescued by a local VA organization, the Middleburg Humane Foundation.

Though she will always see the horses as her most important instructors, Jan credits her human teachers as well. In addition to Linda Tellington-Jones, Jan cites Gabor Foltenyi, Jimmy Wofford, Karen O‘Connor, Denny Emerson, Peggy Cummings, Wendy Murdoch, and Katy Browne Masek, as the most influential. A perpetual student, Jan not only continues taking riding lessons but is on a constant quest to learn more about her equine friends. Her most recent studies into the many ways horses learn and the energetic connection between horse and human have brought her exciting new insights.

Whether it is Jan’s quiet, intuitive method of influencing a horse’s mind and body, or her lighthearted common-sense instruction, audiences always find her fun, exciting, and thought provoking.

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Burt Staniar, PhD 
A
ssistant Professor, Equine Science 
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Saturday, 4-5 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Carbohydrate Mumbo-Jumbo and Danger in the Grass
Dr. Staniar will discuss the ins and outs of carbohydrate nutrition for horses. He will discuss sugars, starches, nonstructural and structural carbohydrates in forages and grains. Horse owners and professionals with an interest in laminitis, obesity and other metabolic disorders should try to attend this seminar.

Biography

Burt Staniar - is a faculty member in the Department of Dairy and Animal Sciences at Penn State. Dr. Staniar’s research at Penn State focuses on how nutrition influences healthy growth and metabolism of the horse. Dr. Staniar recently developed new weight estimation equations for young growing horses. He has completed extensive characterization of the growth of Thoroughbreds and has studied how dietary protein influences growth. Now he has turned his attention to studying how different sources of dietary energy affect equine skeletal development. The objective of this work is to identify nutritional strategies that can be used to reduce the risk of some forms of developmental orthopedic disease. In addition, Dr. Staniar teaches and advises undergraduate students at Penn State’s University Park campus. 

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Kathleen Tabor, Esq. 
Attorney-At-Law, Collaborative Practitioner and Civil Mediator
 
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Friday, 3-4 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
An Overview for the Equine Owner & Business: Premise Liability, Land Use and Zoning
Horse owners, equine businesses and property owners will be given an overview of the Maryland negligence standard, Maryland Recreation Act, premises liability, land use, zoning issues and assumption of risk doctrine. This information will be helpful to anyone who rides a horse or owns property used by equestrians.

Biography

Kathleen Tabor  (Equine Law) - Ms. Tabor is a solo practitioner and the principle of the "Law Office of Kathleen JP Tabor, LLC." She has a general civil practice with a special focus on equine business, activities, and ownership. Kathleen is also a trained civil mediator (serves as a court-appointment civil mediator for the Circuit Court of Howard County), and a trained collaborate law practitioner. Licensed to practice law in Maryland and in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Kathleen practices from Howard County, but serves clients throughout the State.

Kathleen has had a lifelong passion for horses. She currently owns a four-year old Morgan gelding, Statesman Midnite Cowboy and enjoys trail riding. 

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Dr. Jennifer Tacia

University of Maryland, booth 905-906


  - Saturday, 2-3 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Emergency Medicine: What to Do Until the Vet Arrives

Biography

Dr. Jennifer Tacia  (Emergency Medicine) - graduated from Michigan State University in 2002. She sees both large and small animal patients. Her desire to become part of a respected profession, while being able to help people and animals led her to become a veterinarian. She especially enjoys surgery and the challenges of equine lameness. She was especially moved, when, while still in vet school, she assisted in surgery during an equine caesarian section in which both the mare and the foal were saved. (Equine C-sections are extremely rare, and often the death of the mare, the foal, or both occurs).

Dr. Tacia moved to southern Maryland from Michigan in July of 2002. She says she has appreciated the wonderful welcome she has received from the community and members of the Tidewater staff. When not working with animals, she spends time with her animals (Crash, the Paint horse; Boo, a black kitty; and Pal, a Golden Retriever), traveling, golfing and swimming. 

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Dr. Marcia Thibeault

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Friday, 6-7 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
Surface Anatomy - What's Under that Bump?
Did you ever wonder what structures lie beneath the surface of your horse's skin? Where are the important organs and tissues like the jugular vein, esophagus, trachea, spine or important joints that are prone to injury? This talk provides information about body locations that are prone to injury and how this knowledge helps the horse owner identify crisis situations and know when to call the vet. 

  - Saturday, 11-12 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
So you want to be a Vet?
This interactive presentation begins with the debunking of common myths about what it's like to be a horse doctor. It also gives an insiders look into the world of veterinary medicine. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions about pre-vet courses, admission requirements and how to become a successful equine practitioner. 

Biography

Dr. Marcia Thibeault  - Dr. Thibeault earned her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Colorado and her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University. A lifelong horsewoman and certified riding instructor, she practiced equine medicine for 15 years before taking her expertise into the classroom - teaching Equine Studies at Midway College in Kentucky.

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Doug Tregoning
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Thursday, 3-4 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Weed Identification and Control
This presentation will focus on common weeds, including some of the more prevalent toxic plants. It will emphasize an integrated approach to weed control that includes pH and fertility management, grazing management, pasture clipping, pasture dragging and herbicide use. The presentation will also provide information on how to effectively evaluate pastures for management strategies.

Biography

Doug Tregoning  - Doug Tregoning grew up on a dairy and grain farm in Montgomery County, Maryland. He received in BS Degree from West Virginia University in Agribusiness and Agronomy in 1977. He received his Masters Degree from the same institution in 1979 in Agricultural Economics. He has worked as an Extension Agent for Maryland Cooperative Extension out of the Montgomery County Office since 1980. He has worked with equine Extension audiences on pasture/forage/business management issues since 1989. He worked in conjunction with NRCS personnel and Extension personnel in establishing field demonstrations on three separate farms on rotationally grazing horses. He is noted for his presentations on toxic plants and pasture establishment.

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Lester Vough, PhD
Forage Crops Extension Specialist, Emeritus

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Saturday, 1-2 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Hay-Making and Other Management Practices to Reduce Feeding Costs
Because of the higher prices of hay over the last several years, some horse owners are considering making their own hay. Properly done this might save money, but in addition to the need for and cost of a lot of specialized equipment necessary to make hay, there are some other big challenges to making high quality hay in Mid-Atlantic region. These challenges need to be considered as the decision is made on whether or not to make hay on your farm. Other, lower cost ways to increase feed production on your farm will also be presented, such as use of sickle bar mowers rather than rotary mowers for clipping pastures as well as liming, fertilizing and rotational grazing to significantly increase pasture feed production. 

Biography

Les Vough (Hay Selection)  - Dr. Vough grew up with draft horses and ponies on a farm in southwestern Pennsylvania. He obtained his BS degree from Penn State University, MS from the University of Minnesota and Ph D from Purdue University, having majored in agronomy with an emphasis on forage physiology and quality. From 1972 to 1978 he served as Extension and Research Agronomist at Oregon State University and from 1978 to 2006 as Forage Crops Extension Specialist at the University of Maryland. The focus of his extension and research programs was on a systems approach to forage management and utilization. He has written numerous extension publications and press articles on forage establishment, management and utilization, including "Evaluating Hay Quality". He retired from the University of Maryland in 2006 and is currently doing consulting work for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation as well as being involved in a hay production and marketing business with his brother.

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Brooke Vrany
Days End Farm Horse Rescue, booth 205, 206, B7, B8

  - Thursday, 6-7 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Equine Rehabilitation  
Ever thought about rehabilitating a horse?  This lecture will walk you through 20 years of rehabilitation experience, what works and what doesn’t!  During our presentation you’ll get the opportunity to review and discuss previous equine cases that involved starvation, abuse and injury.  You’ll learn how to optimize your rehabilitation efforts by effectively managing costs and equine care. 

  - Sunday, 10-11am, University of MD Seminar Hall
Emergency Rescue 101
Do you know what to do if your horse is cast in a stall or your horse is down and can’t get up? What about if your horse is stuck in mud or on a stream embankment and can’t get free? Get prepared now, it could save your horse’s life. During this course you’ll learn the key rescue functions, application of rescue straps and the do’s and don’ts of Large Animal Rescue. This course is taught using practical rescue equipment and a mannequin horse.

Biography

Brooke Vrany (Horse Rescue, Unwanted Horse Issues) - is the director of Programs and Emergency Services for Days End Farm Horse Rescue. She has seven years of experience in emergency rescue and dealing with sick, injured, and downed horses. Brooke is certified in Large Animal Rescue and has received training in the use of large animal rescue equipment, large animal rescue lift systems and operations, scene management and operations, trailers and trailer operations, water rescue operations, night time animal rescue, biosecurity and zoonoses. Brooke is on the board of directors for Maryland SART. State Animal Response Teams (SART) are interagency state organizations dedicated to preparing, planning, responding and recovering during animal emergencies in the United States. 

Brooke is the director of Days End’s Animal Response Teams and has assisted in Hurricane Ravaged areas and responds to numbers of local calls monthly from horse owners, veterinarians or fire department officials in regards to individual horse rescue situations. She has been instrumental in saving the lives of many horses that found ways to put themselves in surreal situations, sometimes beyond belief.

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Diana L. Walcutt, Ph.D
Towson Psychology Services
   

  - Saturday, 11-12 noon, Main Seminar Hall 
  - Sunday, 3-4 pm, Main Seminar Hall  

How to Master Your Anxiety on and Around Horses
Dr. Diana Walcutt is a Licensed Psychologist who has taught people the three secrets of managing their anxiety and stress for nearly 24 years. Having been injured around horses many times herself, Diana understands what fear is and knows how to master it with a few daily exercises, either on or off the horse. If you want to realize your full potential as an equestrian, then you need to learn these secrets of how to master your anxiety in only 10 minutes a day. In this workshop you will learn how to relax, focus and renew the passion for the riding that's deep inside you.

Biography

Diana L. Walcutt, Ph.D (Rider Fear) - began with her family’s race horses when they would toss her up on the horse's back at the age of 2 and she was captivated before she knew it. She kept bugging her parents for some chances at “real” riding and began English lessons at 5. As a teenager, she went on to study with a horsemaster while living in Connecticut. Diana has Hunted and has trained and competed in Hunter, Dressage, Eventing and Sidesaddle, so she understands the anxiety that can accompany being around and on horses. She currently rides with Tranquillity Manor Farms in Monkton, MD. Although she took a break from riding to finish her education, she has never abandoned her love of the sport. 

Her education includes an undergraduate degree in the study of the brain and human behavior from The Johns Hopkins University and she worked in and taught animal research at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine for over 20 years. She was also the Secretary of the Board of Horse Riding Stables for the State of Maryland for eight years. She then moved to California where she took a dual doctorate in Psychology and Theology from Biola University.

Since returning home to Maryland, Diana has worked with many athletes who wish to sharpen their game by clearing up attention and concentration issues, or to overcome depression, panic or fear. Few sports rely on another creature to keep us safe and sane like horsemanship does. In light of this, she and her colleague, Dr. Jennifer Fee, have produced a number of CD’s on how to master stress and anxiety and they collaborated on their newest endeavor, “Stress-Less! Mastering Anxiety on Horseback”. This CD will teach you how to conquer fear and use anxiety to your advantage on and around horses. 

The workshop she’s offering this year will teach you tools and techniques on mastering your anxiety, and help you change thinking that hinders your maximum performance. You can even learn to master your anxiety in one breath! Diana practices in Towson, MD and can be found at www.towsonpsychologicalservices.com.

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Jeannie Whited
International Side-Saddle Organization, booth 112

  - Thursday, 1-2 pm, Main Arena  
Sidesaddle Myth-Busters
We've all read about sidesaddle riders in romance novels and seen them in movies. Now its time to separate fact from fiction. Are women really as helpless as they are sometimes portrayed in the old movies? Is it truly bad for the horse? Is it only for hunters? Come find out from some real-life sidesaddle ladies!

  - Sunday, 9:15-10 am, Main Seminar Hall 
Sidesaddle Fashion
Join us for a review of women's riding attire through the ages. You'll even be invited to dress up for an impromptu fashion show!

Biography

Jeannie Whited (Side Saddle Riding) - has been riding aside for over 20 years. Sidesaddle riding, far from being a thing of the past, is growing in popularity. Today's riders, men as well as women, are attracted to the sidesaddle for its history, versatility, novelty and security. 

Jeannie is an International Side-Saddle Organization (ISSO) certified instructor. In 2005, she was awarded Regional Representative of the Year for her work in Northern Virginia. Her students include show-bound juniors as well as adults on the USEF A-circuit, but primarily those riding just for the joy of it. Jeannie's first loves are Hunters and Dressage, but she also learned Western and Saddleseat aside. Jeannie teaches both English and Western riders, on the flat and over fences, her speciality being beginning sidesaddle riders.
While emphasizing safety for horse and rider, ISSO helps you discover the fun and art of riding aside.

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Carey Williams, PhD
Specialist in Equine Management
Department of Animal Science Rutgers University 

University of Maryland, booth 905-906

  - Saturday, 12-1 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall
Feeding the Equine Athlete

Biography

Carey Williams (Holistic Healthcare) - is the Equine Extension Specialist and Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science at Rutgers University. Her research focus is in equine nutrition and exercise physiology, specifically antioxidant supplementation and oxidative stress of the equine athlete. Dr. Williams completed her bachelor degree in Equine Science at Colorado State University (1998), and graduated with her master's (2000) and doctorate (2003) degrees in Equine Nutrition from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she was awarded the John Lee Pratt Fellowship in Animal Nutrition. At Rutgers, Dr. Williams maintains a herd of standardbred horses for her research and she works with agricultural agents within Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Natural Resource Conservation Service to carryout equine pasture management initiatives. She is a member of various national organizations and presented at their research symposia including Equine Nutrition and Physiology Society, American Society of Animal Science, and American Association of Veterinary Nutritionists. As a hobby she trains and competes her thoroughbred mare at various dressage shows and horse trials. 




Keith Wills

Account Executive/Commercial
Farm Credit, Booth 513, 514

  - Friday, 1-2 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Business Planning for Your Dream Farm

Biography

Keith Wills (Farm Financing) - is an account executive for MidAtlantic Farm Credit, one of the largest agricultural and rural lenders in the mid-Atlantic region. He works in MidAtlantic’s Bel Air office, and focuses on loans to the equine industry.

Keith has been involved in the equine community for almost fifteen years. In November, he was appointed by Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. to the Maryland Horse Industry Board, a group created to promote the horse industry in Maryland. He is also a board member of Baltimore County Farm Bureau, the Gunpowder Valley Conservancy, and the Maryland Horse Council. He serves as treasurer of the following organizations: Baltimore County Farm Bureau Agricultural Education Foundation, Baltimore County Extension Advisory Council, and Baltimore County Agricultural Resource Center.

MidAtlantic Farm Credit has fifteen offices throughout central Maryland, the Eastern Shore of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia, as well as southeastern Pennsylvania.

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Kristen Wilson
Regional 4-H Horse Specialist
University of Maryland, booth 905-906

 - Sunday, 2-3 pm, University of MD Seminar Hall 
Riding Instruction for Different Ages and Stages

Biography

Kristen Wilson (4-H) - was born in Annapolis, MD and grew up in Florida. She earned a B.S. degree in Animal Science – Equine Industry from the University of Florida in 2003. She remained at University of Florida to earn a M.S. degree in Extension Education with a minor in Youth Development in 2005. Her research focused primarily on identifying the needs of adult horse owners in Florida in order to enhance the Florida Horse Extension programming efforts.

As the Regional Horse Extension Specialist for University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, Kristen provides statewide leadership for the Maryland 4-H Horse Program. Kristen coordinates statewide equine contests and educational programs for 4-Hers, volunteers and county educators. In addition, she teaches within the Institute of Applied Agriculture's Equine Business Management Program. She also serves as a co-advisor to the UMCP Collegiate 4-H Club.

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Melyni Worth
Foxden Equine, booth 1418

 - Thursday, 1-2 pm, Main Seminar Hall 
Cushings and Metabolic Disorders
A diagnosis of Cushing’s/EMS does not mean the end of your horse’s functional life. Learn how to keep your horse going through diet and management. This talk includes the latest nutrition research results and the most effective straight forward methods which are possible for any horse owner.

  - Sunday, 10-11 am, Main Seminar Hall
Keeping the High Performance Horse Healthy
Learn how to manage the high performance horse to maximize ability and minimize stress through proper nutrition. High performance standards will take a toll on your horse. Your competition horse is a huge investment that you want to keep going for as long as possible, at the highest level possible. These nutrition management methods will help your horse survive the pressures of competition.

Biography

Melyni Worth (Natural Horse Health Care) - originally from Great Britain, by way of Kenya, Melyni has a Bachelors degree in Agricultural Biochemistry from Newcastle University, received a Masters in Equine Nutrition from University College of Wales Aberystwyth) and a Ph.D. in Equine Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from VPI& SU (Virginia Tech). She has taught equine nutrition and physiology at the college level for many years. Melyni trains and rides (sometimes competitively) in Eventing, Dressage, Hunters and Jumpers. She is the owner of Cedar Creek Stables in Staunton, VA where she breeds and imports Knabstrupper horses.

Her company Foxden Equine specializes in nutritional products such as Quiessence™, Tractgard™, LinPro,Cush-Aleve™, Muscle Mix™, HyCel™, Equinamity™ amongst others.