The Plaid Horse

It’s interesting how things become so ingrained in us that we stop questioning them. We mount from the left because of ancient cavalry traditions but that’s not where it stops. We lead from the left, tack up from the left, and in a consistent routine, we dismount from the left. Every. Single. Time. The most important questions are: What’s this habit doing to our bodies, our horses? What would science say about this habitual practice?

From The Plaid Horse, Jimmie Schramm Named Tryon International’s Director of Equestrian Marketing, Communications & Business Development- read here:

Purina Animal Feed, along with the Land O’Lakes Foundation, has reopened its annual scholarship program designed to assist students with experience in livestock production and animal stewardship in pursuing their passions and furthering their education. Undergraduate students and current high school seniors who have experience raising and caring for small or large livestock, equine and/or poultry are eligible to apply for a $5,000 scholarship.

My three top tips to be productive in the schooling ring for the equitation are: 1. Make sure your horse is properly warmed up and able to listen to your aids softly and attentively–lengthen, shorten, and get them soft in the bridle. 2. Approach jumps from a short and long approach, off both leads so that your horse is prepared for any questions on course, and so you feel the horse off of both scenarios and have a great feel for what the course is asking. 3. If there’s a test, practice it or something similar to it. If you can’t do it exactly–don’t drill the test too much; just be prepared. Most importantly, the schooling ring is not a lesson–you should be prepared before coming to the show, it is there to warm you up so you can feel your horse once you are ready to jump a course! Horses only have so many jumps in them! So be mindful not to waste the energy or bother the horse! Be ready, physically and mentally before getting on your horse, so as to not waste schooling ring time!” –Dana Hart-Callanan

Anyone in the competitive equestrian world will tell you that horses are an expensive hobby. The financial burden to board your horse at a full-service show barn is a heavy one, and that doesn’t even include farrier work, vet bills, or entry fees–let alone the cost of buying the horse itself! If you’re like me and not a billionaire, you might find yourself struggling to reach your equestrian goals all while being bombarded with the latest and greatest brands, innovations, and comforts. Technology has advanced so far that some saddles even have Bluetooth connectivity that can track your riding data and analyze your performance. If that’s not a cutting-edge advantage, I don’t know what is. But I’m here to tell you something: It doesn’t matter what saddle you ride in. 

Day Four of the 34th edition of Live Oak International was nothing short of a testament to the spirit of horsemanship and sportsmanship, as the event faced unexpected weather challenges. A heavy rainstorm temporarily halted the competition, but thanks to the hard work and collaboration of all involved–including athletes, officials, course designers, and show management–the event resumed, highlighting the world-class footing and perseverance that defines Live Oak International. Once the skies cleared, the action continued, and the competition unfolded with thrilling performances. Christian Coyle, riding Extravaganza Semilly, claimed victory, followed by Daniel Coyle on Farrel in second and Will Simpson aboard Imar in third.

Standlee x The Plaid Horse Stephanie Jones & Team, thanks for helping me show off Standlee's products in the Wellness Issue! Check out our ad in the magazine below: https://lnkd.in/gAzCbEwm

Dr. Barb Blasko, MD, founder of ShowMD, takes the translation out of treatment. When riders come to her saying that their horse ducked out of a one-stride and they fell right into a standard, or that their back hurts because their horse has an active hind end, she instantly understands. In fact, she might even be in riding clothes herself in the treatment room!

The World-Renowned Budweiser Clydesdales made a special appearance at the 34th edition of Live Oak International on Saturday, March 15, 2025 to the thrill of a record-breaking number of attendees. On the marathon course, Chester C. Weber had spectators following along in droves as he navigated the marathon obstacles, driving to victory in the FEI 3* Horse Team division. In the main ring, the CSI4* $32,000 Live Oak International Stake Presented by Horseflight 1.50 m saw Will Simpson claim victory aboard Keminko N.

Actively choosing to place your body on top of an 1100-pound prey animal comes with its own set of fears in and of itself. So adding the elements of spending a small mortgage payment to do it for the weekend while being judged and viewed by spectators, well, no wonder it takes courage to step back into the show ring after time away. For many of us, competitions give us an end zone, that goal to work towards, along with the occasional small payout or pretty ribbon to hang in our tack rooms. But where do you find the courage to do this again after some time away? Or to do it as an adult who has never done it before?