Suzanna and Alex recently successfully completed all part of the HB rating. This was the first national testing for both of these pony clubbers. Congratulations to both of you!
It is always worth celebrating when a pony clubber passes a rating. The following Red Rock Pony Clubbers have achieved their next rating: Autumn has obtained her D1, Brandon and Mark on achieving their D3, and Katherine for achieving her D3 flat. Good work pony clubbers.
Good luck to Alex, Suzanna, Caitlyn, and Toni who will be going to Red River this weekend for their HB rating. We will be thinking about you and wishing you all well.
Congratulations to our Champs Midwest competitors!
Savannah and McKenna each finished first in their respective divisions in Tet. DJ finished third in her Division in tet. The tet team finished 2nd in Horse Management and McKenna was awarded a third place ribbon for equitation! Congratulations on a job well done!
The dressage competitors: Becky and Aly finished second in horse management with just 1 penalty point. They finished 4th overall and Becky got a third place ribbon individually for her musical freestyle.
It was nice to see Julie Herman in the barn and to see Brywn there to cheer on the competitiors.
Midwest Champs was a nice change of pace. The facility is air conditioned and the smaller competition was very friendly. The midwest champs organizers added lots of little extras to make us all feel welcome.
It is always worth celebrating when a pony clubber passes a rating. The following Red River Pony Clubbers have achieved their next rating: Autumn has obtained her D1, Brandon and Mark on achieving their D3, and Katherine for achieving her D3 flat. Good work pony clubbers.
Congratulations to Kim from Hill Top. Kim travelled to Eastern PA region this past weekend for her HB rating. Kim is now our newest HB in the region. Congratulations, Kim!
Good Luck to Kim who is traveling to Eastern PA region on July 16 for her HB rating. Toni, Alex, Suzanna, and Caitlyn will be traveling to Red River to take the HB in August.
We had a great jumper derby at Pine Hill on May 8. Thanks to Bethel Hart for organizing such a great event and to the multitude of volunteers that came out to help.
The Champions and Reserve Champions for each Division are listed below:
Division 6/Preliminary:
Champion: Sarah Goodyear
Congratulations to all our competitors at Show Jumping Rally for a job well done! The rally produced 5 qualifiers for National Championships: at Horse 2: Becky, Horse 1: Madison, at 3 feet: Fallon, and at Developing Horse: Allie and Megan. We recognized 2 outstanding horse managers: Autumn and Sara. High Point equitation in Division 1 went to Mark and in Division 2 went to Becky.
In Division 1 the Reserve Champion in Horse Management was the scramble team of Windy Riders/Fiesta with 14 points and the Champion Team was from Red Rock with only 5.66 penalty points. Overall Placings in Division 1 were: third place - Red Rock, Second Place Brazos/Tejas/Gulf Coast, and First Place went to Windy Riders/Fiesta.
In Division 2 there was a very close race for Horsemanagement Championships with Alamo finishing in Reserve with 4 penalty points and Lone Star finishing first with 3 penalty points. Overall in 4th place was the scramble team of Gulf Coast/Instride, in 3rd place was Lone Star, in 2nd place was Alamo, and in first place with only 13.42 penalty points was the scramble team of San Jacinto/Windy Riders/Brazos.
Congratulations to all our competitors for a very professional competition!
Congratulations to all our quiz competitors! They all did a really great job.
The results of quiz are listed below:
Jr D A (non qualifying)
Champion Team - Tejas, Brazos
Reserve Champion - Hill Top
Individual High Point - Audrie Stanka
Jr D B
Champion Team - Tejas
Reserve Champion - San Jacinto/Hill Top/Brazos
Third Place - Hill Top
Qualifying (in this order):
McKenna, Brittney, Elizabeth, Lissa
alternates - Egan, Danielle, Cora
Sr D
Champion Team - Tejas
Reserve Champion - Hill Top
Qualifying Team:
Jessica, Madeline, Houston, and Morgan.
Many thanks to all that made this a great rally:
TD - Claudia Barton
Phase Coordinators - Julie Herman, Bethel Hart, Vicki Tayor, and Tom Welsh
Station Leaders: Vickie, Kim, Becky, Erica, Patricia, Karen, Toni, Katharine, Julie, and Allie.
Scoring: Leisha Mullins and Susan Byrne
Many thanks to our lunch chefs: Danny Morrison and Linda Kapusniak and Epicure Catering for the generous donation of some fabulous deserts!
Congratulations to all our competitors. You all did a really great job!
Congratulations to Hill Top Pony Club for winning an early bird award for meeting the early deadline for submitting renewal paperwork. I believe that this is the second time that Hill Top has won this award! Way to go!
DISTRIC COMMISSONERS / CLUB OFFICERS
Attending Clubs: Absent Clubs:
Alamo PC, Carrie Itschner, DC Bluebonnet
Bayou City PC, Cindy Weathers, DC Big Thicket
Brazos PC, Susan Byrne, DC Clip Clop
Gulf Coast PC, Doreen Criswell,DC Fiesta
Hill Top PC, Cathy Hoysa, DC Hood
Lone Star PC, Roey Munoz, DC In Stride
Red Rock PC, Vicki Taylor, DC
San Jacinto PC, Margaret Blackert, DC
Tejas PC, Jeannine Powers, DC
Windy Riders PC, Renee Zollars, DC
Non- voting Attendees:
Bayou City PC, Nina Springer, Jt. DC
Bayou City PC, Terri Davis
Hill Top PC, Vickie Godfrey
San Jacinto PC, Matt Gee
CALL TO ORDER - 10:15 AM
Meeting was called to order by Candy Brake. Candy welcomed everyone to the meeting. Leisha Mullins called attendance.
APPROVAL OF THE 2008 MINUTES
Candy asked for a motion to waive the reading of the minutes. Cathy Hoysa motioned, Doreen Criswell seconded, and the motion carried. Julie Herman moved the minutes be approved and Vicki Taylor seconded. The motion carried and the 2008 minutes were approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Eddie Mixon presented the treasurer’s report, attached. He reminded everyone that the Region operates on a break-even basis. He stated that the region is in good financial shape. The New family has donated money to the region that is unrestricted, but donated with the desire to help keep activities affordable for the members. He noted that there was a contribution of $2,600 to the region to cover, in part, the registration fees of the region volunteers to the 2010 USPC annual meeting
Eddie discussed a few of the region activities and their effects on the budget. Eddie noted we budgeted $2000 in the 2009 budget for the reimbursement of 2009 Annual meeting expenses encured by the regional officers. However, several officers did not turn in reimbursement requests, rather opting to personally cover their expenses as a donation to the region. Eddie mentioned that most of the region activities were close to break even while a few activities made money – Festival/Banquet and quiz rally. Eddied noted the proceeds from the banquet include $600 earmarked to the regional junior board (raised from the silent auction which they hosted).
Doreen noted the quiz rally showed a profit of approximately $1200. Eddie explained that some rallies always make money which offsets the loss at other rallies. Vicki Taylor also explained that the fees for the rally are set prior to registration contributing to rally profits and losses. Candy also noted that many times receipts are not submitted for reimbursement, i.e. non-declared donation. The net effect is a perceived reduction in the cost of the rally and a net profit showing on the books. Candy again asked that people submit receipts but mark them as donation so the region can track expenses.
Eddie presented the 2010 budget. He based the budget of the ordinary income and expenses on the 2009 expenditures. Eddie noted that new to the regional budget is the 2010 USPC annual meeting. The following modifications were made upon discussion.
Eddie noted the budget for the annual regional meeting was probably low. Upon discussion with comments from Rachelle, Candy and Leisha as to their expenditure on food, copy and mailing expenses, it was decided to increase the budgeted amount to $350.
Eddie mentioned that $3000 was budgeted to cover the 2010 USPC annual meeting expenses of 3 three regional officers at $1000 each. Candy stated it would be better if the $3000 amount was fixed but spread out to cover the expenses of several regional officers. Again, Eddie noted that a $2,600 contribution has been made to the region to cover the registration fees for approximately 26 regional volunteers
Eddie noted that after everything is included, the budget shows a deficit of about $3000 which is approximately the expenditure of the regional summer camp. Candy noted that the membership dues, in principal, cover the regional operating expenses and that the proceeds from all of the regional activities cover all activity related expenses.
Eddie proposed we “park” the budget for vote approval later in the meeting. Everyone approved delaying the vote on the budget.
HORSE MANAGEMENT ORGANIZER REPORT
Rachelle Cyrier, HMO, presented the HMO’s report. In the 2009 rally year, the region held qualifying Dressage, Quiz, Show jump and tetrathlon rallies. The eventing rally was non-qualifying and the games rally had to be canceled and is rescheduled for the end of summer camp. Rachelle is hoping to hold the 2010 Horse Management seminar in February. The Barn Fair scheduled during the September Regional Festival did not occur. Doreen commented that everyone was too tired so it was a scheduling issue. Candy mentioned the purpose of the Festival was to increase barn fair and banquet participation. Festival was well received even though it did not accomplish the original goal.
VICE REGIONAL SUPERVISOR REPORTS
Marybeth Ruspino, Vice RS for Rallies was unable to attend this meeting. Candy read a submitted report which is attached. Everyone agreed that Marybeth has given us four great years. Candy noted that for some reason Dressage rally is the most expensive. She said that use of Pine Hill as the rally facility helps keep costs down since they allow the use of second party work credits to cover some expenses. She also noted that food committee has been able to keep food expenses down and they are getting better at anticipated the amount of food required.
Candy analyzed participation and noted that it had been holding steady until this year where participation was way down. Reasons for the decline were briefly discussed ranging from high diesel cost early in the year to general decline in participation in most horse shows ranging from schooling and recognized hunter/jumper and dressage shows. Candy’s analysis showed that we really need 40 – 45 participants per rally to make them cost effective.
REGIONAL INSTRUCTION COORDINATOR REPORT
Vicki Taylor presented the Regional Instruction Coordinator report. The Standards and Ratings Clinic along with an Upper Level clinic will be held Memorial Day weekend. The clinician will be Terri Rocovich. The three day weekend will be split between the two events (1 ½ days for each). The region will hold a horse masters camp in December as well as a C2 prep Dec 20 & 21 in preparation for the March 13 C2 and Horse masters rating. Vicki asked the DCs to quiz their members to see if anyone is planning on doing a HB rating next year so she can plan a prep clinic. Also, she needs to know by mid summer if there is a need to hold a second regional rating in the fall. Vicki indicated she is still working on getting instructors for camp, but hopes to have people by the first of the year. Vicki asked if the horse masters should pay regional dues. A discussion ensued with the consensus that the region would rather have the horse masters volunteer at regional activities than pay dues. Candy noted the region is tentatively scheduled to hold a C3 and B in October 2010. She asked the DCs to again query their members as to interest.
Candy talked about the new location, J Bar J, for sleeping/eating and some non-mounted activities for the regional camp. The camp has little rooms for 8 or so people to sleep as well as meeting rooms for non riding activities. The upside/downside is there is no TV and no easy fast food. However there are ponds and pools. Candy mentioned the kids will need to bring sleeping bags, towels, sheets etc. She mentioned that we must go by their camp rules. For example lunch and dinner are at specific times therefore we will need to have contingences for horse issues. Most rooms and baths are air conditioned.
Vicki mentioned she wants to find an unmounted coordinator who will be either present all the time or prepare activities in a box. She will send information about this in the registration forms. Renee suggested each club coordinate an activity. Vicki mentioned that there still needs to be one coordinator which will allow her to handle the C2 preps. Vicki prefers to have crafts that will not involve paint or glue! She suggested making brow bands. Margaret said she will help will crafts, but does not want to do it all.
Vicki would like everyone to move in on Sunday night. The extra night will add $50 to camp cost and will require adjustments for breakfast on Monday (which was not included in original contract) Rachelle asked if chaperons will shuttle the kids from Pine Hill to the camp on Sunday. A decision will be made at a later date.
Vicki mentioned she is waiting to hear back from possible instructors. Her intent is to add one more full time instructor to camp. She is looking to add a person who has experience with games and polo cross.
Candy mentioned that the Upper level camp housing will be Pine Hill (in trailers, tents etc.). Vicki and Candy are both expecting to have more upper level kids this year because we are getting a bigger C2 and up group in region. Candy noted that if we have more upper level kids attend camp, it should make camp more economically feasible for the region.
2010 Calendar (tentative dates)
Deb Willson Clinic (Pine Hill) January 1-3
Annual Meeting in Houston January 27-31
Combined Games/Quiz Rally February 19-21 (26-28)
Regional Rating Day March 13
Show Jumping/Tet Rally March 19-21 (26-28)
Eventing Rally April 10-11
Standards and Ratings Clinic May 28-30
Clinic May 29
Upper Level Camp June 16-19
Horsemasters Camp June 18-19
Regional Camp June 21-25
Regional Rating Day June 26
Festival ? September ?
C3/B rating October 9-10
Dressage Rally November 20-21
Horsemasters Dressage Camp December 11-12
UPPER LEVEL REPORT
Bethel Hart presented the Upper Level report which is attached. She indicated that 2009 has been a disappointing year for the Upper Level program. She noted that the clinics had to be rescheduled several times. We were able to finally hold a clinic in the spring with Claire Harmon at Candy’s. It has been difficult to find a time that coordinates with the kid’s schedules as well as the fact that a number have new horses. Bethel mentioned the next clinic will be in January with Deb Wilson. She is also hoping to hold a clinic in the fall to help the kids prepare the national rating scheduled for October. Both Candy and Bethel mentioned that each clinic needs 8 kids in order to cover expenses.
REGIONAL JUNIOR COUNCIL REPORT
Candy Brake, RS, read a report from Claire Harmon who is liaison to the Regional Junior Council. Claire’s report is attached.
CLUB STATUS REPORTS
Candy asked each club to shared one positive and one negative from their club. Following is a summary of the reports. Alamo mentioned they like the stability of their program, its continuity and meeting location. However they are having trouble recruiting new members. Brazos’ positives were the number of members that qualified for championships and that every member that went for a rating passed. But they are also having trouble with member recruitment. The positives for Bayou City were the variety in meetings (fox hunt and riding on beach), but they had trouble planning activities for the summer. Hill top on the other had has seen a rise in membership but they have very little club funds to help with activities. Lots of excellent instructors at unmounted meetings (equine dentist, equine massage, farriers) were a positive for Lone Star. Both Lone Star and Red need to attract younger members. Red Rock’s positive was weekly mounted meetings with Vicki. San Jacinto’s positives were using “pony bucks” to encourage members to do things the pony club way and the number of members who attended championships. However they are having a hard to time finding a good day for meetings. Like Hill Top, Tejas is seeing an increase in membership, but they are having a hard time retaining older riders. Windy Riders indicated they would like to start a blog or website to advertise their club. They have found a great fundraiser in which they stock a barn with drinks and earn an income by selling the drinks to the barn boarders. Gulf Coast is very happy about holding quality low cost two day mounted clinics several times a year. But they have had difficulty finding qualified instructors for mounted meetings.
STATE OF THE REGION
Candy Brake, RS, stated that overall things were going well in the Region. She has been able to send a newsletter each month to the DCs as well as put it on the website. Candy mentioned that while Festival did not turn out as intended it was a great success. It gave information to non-members and gave a non-rally opportunity for kids.
Candy mentioned that the quality and cost of the rallies (Dressage, Quiz, Show Jumping/Tet, Eventing and Quiz) was fantastic. She mentioned the Horse Management Training at rallies is second to none as evidenced by our kids doing very well at Championships. She said many of our kids are teaching kids from other regions at championship and they always score well. Another plus this year at rallies was the Rally Readiness Academy which has had two graduating classes. Julie taught one and Erin another. The feed back on the academy was good. The academy allows the little kids to come with out a horse. Candy mentioned there will be two this year (dressage and eventing).
The region sent teams to both the East (Dressage Team, Show Jumping, Quiz Team ) and West (quiz) Championships. Another plus this year was the addition of Gulf Coast Pony Club. Through out the region, members are progressing through the ratings.
Candy felt the following were the 2009 failures. Candy again mentioned that Barn Fair did not work as scheduled in Festival. She mentioned that the purpose of horse management is to train assistant horse managers for barn as well as to educate the DCs and parents as to what is expected in the barns during rally. Another goal of festival was to increase attendance at the regional banquet. Candy noted the purpose of banquet is to give the region an award ceremony and provide a fun activity.
Candy mentioned that regionally membership is down 20%. The participation in UL Clinics and UL Program is down due in part to a big decrease in number of active upper level riders. Additionally participation in rallies is decreasing faster than membership.
Candy noted that Clip Clop will go inactive and Bluebonnet was disbanded. She mentioned there still seemed to be a communication problem between the clubs and the region. She only got - 3-4 club financial reports when she asked for club paperwork and reports. She indicated that if region officers had the club calendars they would try to attend some of the meetings. Candy mentioned that she really needs financial statements and club ratings information. It is fine to cc her on emails to national reporting ratings.
Candy thinks that sometimes Pony Club does not look like fun. She would like to increase the emphasis on membership and fun as well has put more emphasis on horse masters. She also hopes that by keeping rally cost constant we might increase interest in rallies.
Candy went over her responsibilities to club and duties of DCs to region and ask the DCs to read their responsibilities. (see attached). Candy said she will work hard this year to keep the regional officers informed.
Candy mentioned that Red River has asked if they could send their kids to our Quiz rally. She mentioned that Quiz will be held at Still Creek Boys Ranch in Bryan. A discussion ensued and everyone agreed that it would be good to expand the competition to include Red River Region. Candy mentioned in return Red River would like to host a qualifying eventing rally. Red River is combing their rally with the USEA Event at Holly Hill. Again a discussion ensued and everyone thought this was not the type of event our region wanted to hold.
OLD BUSINESS
There was no old business
NEW BUSINESS
Candy talked about the USPC fund. The national office would like for every Region and each club to contribute. Candy mentioned that potential sponsors look favorably on the fact that Pony Clubbers contribute. It helps the national office recruit sponsors when they can say that so many clubs/regions have also contributed.
Candy mentioned that since she would like to have an emphasis on new members this year she proposes a new VRS of membership. The role of the Vice RS would be to help clubs acquired new members, handle riding center request, and help start new clubs. Nina mentioned the new Vice RS could also help the region determine ways to help new members. Doreen asked what the optimum number of members for a club was. Candy mentioned that National now suggest the optimum number might be full mini van. Everyone agreed and the wording on the proposed policy was changed to include the new position.
Candy turned the meeting over to the nominating committee. Rachelle presented the slate:
RS - Candy Brake
Vice RS of Administration – Bethel Hart
Vice rallies/championship – Patrica Harteyer (competitive trail, dressage trail, Crutcher ranch shows)
Vice RS of Membership – Julie Herman
RIC– Vicki Taylor
Secretary – Kim Meraz
Treasurer – Eddie Mixon
There were no nominations from floor. A discussion ensued. Carolyn Mixon motioned to approve the slate and Susan seconded. All approved.
Candy noted it was hard to pick only one Volunteer of the year. Candy proposed that the Vice RSs propose volunteers who have helped through out the year and we give simple awards to each.
Banquet and Festival 2010 were discussed. Both Jeannie and Renee mentioned the date of the last banquet was a problem (Labor Day). Both Cathy and Renee felt it would be better on a none horse weekend. Everyone thought that nice, but cheap would be best. It was unanimous that Labor Day weekend was bad and another weekend would be looked for.
Candy proposed that club nominate DCs for the DC of the Year Award. Nina thought it would be good to have the members submit an essay on why their DC should win. The Regional officers could pick the winning essay and both the DC and the member get awards. Eddie suggested we do the same thing for Horse of the Year. The essays could be posted to the region website.
The Rally Job Assignment sheet was passed out. It was decided we would continue the food committee for another year.
Candy disused the proposed changes to the regional policies. She noted that Julie spent a year modify policies. Additionally, Nina looked at by laws and eliminated redundancies. One additional change is needed with the games entry. All the policy needs to state is there is no additional regional disciple specific criteria. Additionally, Policy 2 needs to be modified to say one or more Vice RS which leaves the region room to adjust with out the need to modify the policies. Carrie motioned to approve the changes to concerning RS and the Vice RSs. Vicki second. The motion was approved. Cindy moves to accept the revised policy. Vicki seconded. All approved.
Candy read qualifications for National Youth Council and listed the regional members that are eligible. Susan nominated Laura Welsh and Bethel seconded. All agreed. Candy noted we might be able to send a second.
Julie talked about the 2010 Annual Meeting. She noted the donation given to the region will cover about 26 volunteer registrations. She also noted that the region will be able to give some banquet tickets and cover some hotel rooms. She noted that Red River has agreed to cover the Pony Club Padock. Vicki talked about banquet. The banquet will have a western theme including a DJ and light show. She mentioned that they are trying to get contract for mechanical bull. The menu is listed on website. The center pieces can be auctioned or sold off. The guest speaker is Gina Miles. Cathy mentioned that auction items are coming in. But she asked the DCs to ask their members for items, or skill that might be auctioned.
The regional budget was revisited. Cathy moved to approve the budget as modified; Carrie seconded. All approved.
Candy Brake concluded the meeting by thanking everyone for attending. It was moved to adjourn, seconded; meeting was adjourned at 3:30 pm.
We had a great but a bit wet dressage rally. In spite of the rain, everyone did a really great job on their rides and horse management.
The following are the placings:
Division 1
HM Champion - Tejas/Red Rock
Reserve - San Jacinto/Windy Riders
Overall
First- Red Rock/Gulf Coast
Second - Tejas/Red Rock
Third - San Jacinto/Windy Riders
Fourth - Bayou City/Brazos/Lone Star
Fifth - Hill Top
Division 2:
HM Champion - Alamo
Reserve - San Jacinto/Lone Star
Overall:
First - San Jacinto/Lone Star
Second - Red Rock/Hill Top
Third - Lone Star/Bayou City/Instride/Windy Riders
Fourth - Alamo
Special Recognition also goes to Elizabeth M for the highest score in Division 1 - 69.0 and to Kendall R for the highest score in Division 2 - 68.5. Mark and Kathryn were recognized for an outstanding score of 68 on their PDD. Fallon and Abigail were recognized for outstanding horse management skills.
Thanks to all our volunteers that made this a great rally.
More congratulations are in order to the following pony clubbers for achieving their next rating:
Kim Ousby, Hill Top, C2
Madison Watts, Lone Star, C1
Chrisina Deaton, Hood, C1
Abigail Powell, Hill Top, D1
Egan Spoltore, Hill Top, D2
Danielle Tatro, Hill Top, D2
Morgan Ferrell, Hill Top, D2
Congratulations to all of you an passing another milestone!
Emily M from Red Rock Pony Club has been accepted as a member of the National Youth Board. Congratulations to Emily for being chosen to be a member of this group.
Congratulations to Melissa G for passing her HB this past weekend. That makes Melissa a C3 since she passed the riding part of the HB last year. Congratulations, Melissa on passing another milestone.
Direction from Pine Hill to the Banquet at Cat Springs
Cat Springs Agricultural Society
13035 Hall Rd
Cat Spring TX 78933
1. Head southwest on Hwy-159 E/TX-159 toward N Mechanic St 1.1 mi
2. Slight right at E Main St 0.1 mi
3. Take the 1st left onto S Front St/TX-36
Continue to follow TX-36 1.8 mi
4. Turn right at N FM 2429 Rd 3.6 mi
5. Turn right at FM 949 Rd 3.5 mi
6. Turn right at FM-1094 0.2 mi
7. Take the 1st right onto Hall Rd
Destination will be on the left 184 ft
13035 Hall Rd TX 78933
Pony Club Festival
September 5-6, 2009
Mounted Riding and Unmounted Activities at
Pine Hill, Bellville and 7IL, Cat Springs
"Festival" is code for FUN!! It will be a combination of the Pony Club Annual Banquet, Barn Fair and Horse Management Seminar with many added educational and fun mounted and unmounted opportunities for pony clubbers, horsemasters, friends, family members, and members of the community. In short - pony club fun for everyone!!!!!
Saturday morning you can choose to participate in Competitive Trail at 7IL or to have a cross country lesson with Claire Harmon at Pine Hill. Saturday afternoon you will find a variety of unmounted clinics along with a Trailer Derby Jackpot.
Saturday evening festivities will begin at 7 PM at Cat Springs Ag Society where you will enjoy BBQ & Danceing at the Annual Pony Club Banquet. Can you say party!
Sunday the activities will begin again at Pine Hill.
Sunday morning you can participate in Hunter Pace Riding or work on your grid work or learn about or participate in a C1/C2 prep or attend the Barn Fair Horse Management Seminar. Whew, I got tired typing that. I promise you will not be bored!
Sunday afternoon ,if you still have energy left, you can pick between Mounted games or have another Cross Country Lessons.
Below is a list of possible obstacles for competitive trail.
Obstacles for Rio Grande Region Festival Competitive Trail Class
Obstacle (60 seconds intermediate, 30 second Beginner?)
Name: Gate
Description: Arena Gate
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: Open gate from horseback, proceed through gate, close gate from horseback and continue down trail.
Beginner: Open gate from horseback, proceed through gate and down trail.
Obstacle (45 seconds)
Name: Clothespin clip
Description: Ribbons clipped with clothespins to a small tree/bush
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: Halt and unclip a ribbon from the bush, sidepass/move sideways to the second bush, halt and clip the ribbon onto that bush
Beginner: Halt and unclip a ribbon from the bush, walk to the second bush, halt and clip the ribbon onto that bush.
Obstacle (45 second)
Name: Backing
Description: Backing between trees on trail
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn. As Instructed by the judge back your horse between trees on trail (intermediate “pattern” will be more difficult then beginner)
Obstacle (45 seconds)
Name: Control By Camp
Description: Walk/Halt/Walk pattern
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn. Stop at the gate immobile for 4 seconds, then turn, go to the pole at a walk, return and continue down the trail
Obstacle (45 seconds)
Name: Water
Description: Water crossing
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: walk through the Intermediate cones, go through the water, and pass through the second set of intermediate cones
Beginner: Walk between the beginner cones and the edge of the water, up to 5 bonus points if you walk through the water.
Obstacle (30 Seconds)
Name: Circling
Description: Circling around a red mineral tub
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn. Approach the red mineral tub, circle around it with the tub as the center point of your circle.
Intermediate: Up to 5 Bonus points for backing around the tub
Obstacle (60 seconds)
Name: Map Skills
Description: Being able to navigate through wooded trail using trail markers, and being able to locate position on map
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn. Using map and trail signs navigate through the twisty wooded trail. Be able to point out your location on map to the judge.
Obstacle (45 seconds)
Name: Control on trail
Description: Having enough control of your horse that you can obey directions on signs posted near trail (walk/trot/halt pattern)
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: As directed by signs on fence walk, trot, and halt
Beginner: As directed by signs on fence walk, trot, walk, and halt
Obstacle (45 seconds)
Name: Ditch
Description: ditch
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: go through intermediate (steeper ditch). Enter at a balanced walk, go straight down and rise or two point on the exit
Beginner: Go through Beginner cones at a balanced walk, go straight down and rise or 2 point on exit.
Obstacle (30 seconds)
Name: Cavelleti
Description: Natural tree limbs spaced 11’ apart
Instructions: Wait at obstacle marker until it is your turn
Intermediate: As directed by judge trot across objects on the trail
Beginner: As directed by judge walk across objects on the trail
It is tradition for trail riders to wear a halter on their horse, either overtop of underneath the bridle. They also carry a lead rope, hoof pick, pocket knife, and water bottle. Judges will be checking to see if competitors have this traditional equipment.
The Hunter Pace
Knowing one’s pace on horseback is an inherent part of being a horseman. Young cavalry officers to modern day eventers (which have the origins of their sport in the training of cavalry) and Pony Clubbers are required to be able to accurately determine their pace on horseback. The Hunter Pace is an enjoyable way to test one’s knowledge of pace.
Riders will set off in pairs across the open. The course they ride has been measured, and riders are tasked with riding this distance at a pre-determined pace. No stop watches are allowed. Time begins when the first of the pair crosses the start and ends when the last of the pair crosses the finish. During the ride, pairs can ride abreast or single file. They can employ strategies to fit the quirks of their particular horses (give a lead into the woods or away from the gate etc.). Frequently pairs will choose a couple of wide jumps and jump together although all jumps are optional. Arguing with your pair is encouraged. The pair whose time is closest to optimum wins.
Paces offered:
The Bluebird Pace: to be ridden at 220 meters/minute over the Green as Grass course (White on Red) of Pine Hill. Jumps are optional. Optimal time is 3 min 52 sec. Course length is 850 m (.52 mile) Ribbons awarded
The Redbird Pace: to be ridden at 300 meters/minute over the Beginner Novice Course (Black on Yellow) of Pine Hill. Jumps are optional. Optimal time is 6 min 26 sec. Course length is 1930 m (1.19 miles) Ribbons awarded
The Tally Ho Pace: to be ridden at 350 meters/minute over the Novice Course at Pine Hill (black on white). Jumps are optional. Optimum time is 5 min 31 sec. Course length is 1930 m (1.19 miles) Ribbons awarded
The Fox Run Demo Pace : to be ridden at 400 meters/minute over the Training Course at Pine Hill (White on Black) Jumps are optional. Optimum time is 5 min 55sec Course length is 2371 m (1.47 miles)
(Open to Adults, or Pony Clubbers who are rated C-2 or above) Prizes awarded
Rules:
Riders will ride in 2 person teams, no riding alone (teams can be formed on site). Riders may ride two times for the $35 entry fee. You may not ride with the same partner twice in the same division. However, you may enter a different division with the same partner, or have a different partner for a second round in the same division.
Competition will be judged on the team who comes closest to optimal time (seconds either above or below optimum are considered the same)
All jumps for all divisions are optional
Vests are required if you plan to jump any fences
Lower divisions will go first, so you can compete in a lower division as a warm up
Teams will be sent out one at a time
Since the purpose of this event is to learn your pace, you might want to practice before you come. Get a timer and measure a distance and learn what a 220, 300, 350, or 400 mpm feels like on your horse. Maybe get your instructor to help. Or, since this is for fun, you can do it this way; arrive with no plan, find a friend with no plan, go out on your course together, maybe get lost and just have a blast! This strategy has worked well before. You might even win!
A number of us went to 7IL today to ride the trail that has been designed for the competition by the leading rider in the open division of ACTHA. I am glad that I got to go and now have a better appreciation of what will be involved. I would like to share some of what I learned with you. The trail is approximately 3 miles long. You can ride almost the entire trail at a walk. There will be approximately 10 obstacles that will be judged based on your style in completing the obstacles. Any obstacle can be skipped completely but will then be assessed a score of 0. There is a lot of riding between obstacles through a nice sandy trail that wind through the woods and through cow pastures. Some of the things that you will be asked to do are: mount (with or without assistance), walk through water, walk through a gully (stopping at the bottom and riding up the other side in 2 point), find your location on a map, be able to follow the red markers on the trail (there are a couple tricky places), walk over some a fallen limb (or limbs), back between a limb, circle a scary object, walk up to a tree removing an object and walk or side pass to another tree, and I guess one more that I cannot remember. Anyone competing in this event will be required to carry a halter and lead rope (the halter can go over or under your bridle) and to carry a hoof pick. I really enjoyed riding the trail today and I think that you all will really enjoy this. We will send everyone out in groups just to make sure that everyone returns! We are going to need some adults to lead groups and also mounted and unmounted volunteers.
One of the themes of camp this year was learning how to walk and ride a stadium course. I hope that the new skills that the pony clubbers learned will be used at Show Jumping Rally next Year.
The kids had a little show jumping show at camp. Champion in the poles division was Lauren, Champion in cross rails was Katherine and Natalie was Reserve Champion. In the 2 foot division, the champion was Hailey and the reserve champion was Caroline. In the 2 foot 6 inch division, the champion was Vicki and the Reserve Champion was Stephanie. In the two foot nine inch division, the champion was Allie and the reserve champion was Suzanna. The best equitation score for the show went to Hailey. Congratulations to everyone on a job well done.
The kids also got an introduction to competitive trail. In winners in the competitive trail were Lissa, Stephanie, and Mark.
Good Luck to our pony clubbers who will be traveling to Lexington, Virginia to compete in championships. Representing the region in dressage will be Becky, Toni, and Kendall. In Show Jumping Madison will be competing on a scramble team and we have a complete Jr D quiz team composed of Ally, Brittney, McKenna, and Elizabeth. Good Luck to all of you. I hope that you enjoy your championships experience!
If you were not at Regional Camp you can’t appreciate how hard the adult helpers and teen helpers worked.
Rachelle and Patricia win the award for staying at camp the longest along with UL riders and helpers Tori, Melissa, and Emily M. They were there for both the UL camp and regional camp. Many thanks also to camp organizer Vicki and for the chefs and shoppers: Sandra and Bethel. Our Chaperones spent a lot of time carrying water to the kids, helping with meals, as well as transporting the kids back and forth to the hotel. A big thanks to Julie B, Rachelle, Paige, Dana, Jenny, and Cathy. Thanks to all of you for your hard work. Camp would not have been possible without you.
I think that the eventing rally was the best rally that I have been to in Rio Grande Region. Marybeth does an outstanding job of organizing these rallies. Her attention to detail is obvious in the execution of the rally and she does a really good job observing and adjusting during the rally. Marybeth, thanks for another outstanding rally.
Thanks to Vicki G, as rally secretary, for keeping all the records straight. I know that getting good paperwork from everyone is more difficult than it should be and that’s only the start of that job. I think that folks enjoyed the advance copy of the program. And thanks to all of you for not trying to re-work the program!
Rachelle and the assistant HM’s have a really tough job in the barn. They are responsible for our kids and they do a really good job. Thanks to Bethel, Susan, Carolyn, and Cathy for keeping up with the teams and doing a lot of teaching. Given that eventing was a 2-day rally, all of horse management was able to be more relaxed in the barn. I hope that the kids enjoyed the slightly slower pace. Rachelle is always looking for good help in the barn. It’s a big time commitment. If you or anyone that you know is interested, let Rachelle know. You don’t have to be a pony club parent to be an assistant horse management judge.
Julie did a nice job with the rally readiness academy. She has a few graduates that are ready to rally and a few that will watch and learn before being ready to “take the plunge”. Thanks Julie for educating our less experienced members.
I think that everyone had some type of job to keep the rally flowing smoothly but a few people really stand out for their dedication. We enjoy having Julienne as our announcer. Thanks for being fixed to the announcer’s stand all day, both days. Thanks also to the scorers. You don’t even know that they are there, hiding away in the air conditioning. There are lots of numbers to keep up with and it’s important that it is done right. Thanks Natalie and Roberta.
Our paramedics, Jenny and Jim Corbett, were given quite a few challenges with the unexpected heat. They showed us great ways to cool off the hot kids. On Sunday, Jenny and Jim set a new standards for the EMS workers who were happy to help cool the kids down after cross country. The vet crew did an excellent job of monitoring the horses and teaching the pony clubbers how to better care for their horses after cross country. Many thanks to Claudia and Tom.
Eventing requires more volunteers in more places than almost any other rally (maybe quiz takes as many). Gail kept people posted in every job and was willing to re-arrange volunteers to keep every as satisfied as possible with their job. Thanks for all the hard work, Gail.
I initially had some convincing relative to the food at rally. We would be lost without some really talented chefs and some hard working dishwashers. Thanks to Lynne, Heidi, and Angie (and me) for giving people a reason to congregate in the neutral zone. I think that Friday night dinner is appreciated. The amazing thing is that with all that good food we had lots of chips left over. I’m glad that we can offer healthy choices. We have a blast in the kitchen. Let me know if you are interested in joining the food committee.
We had a couple special highlights this rally. Wasn’t that volunteer raffle fun? Natalie pulled that together! I’d like to continue that and make it a tradition! Anyone want to head up a future raffle?
What a great Mother’s Day present that the kids were able to give to their mothers thanks to the endless effort put in by Matt and Vicki and the rest of the crafts crew. What a great surprise for the Moms (thankfully the farrier arrived at my place yesterday to replace those shoes that I had to pull off to make the frames. I’m glad that I have enough horses to donate that many shoes).
Maybe this was a secret but I enjoyed the battle on the hillside after rally on Saturday evening. Our water gun battle was “re-instated” by Hill Top and Cathy and what a great time we had “blowing off a little steam”. I know that the parents want to get to dinner, etc. but it’s nice to let the kids have a few fun minutes and do some non-competition bonding after the hard day. It might be a little chilly for a water gun “fight” after dressage rally. Don’t know if Phil and Ruth would let us have a camp fire. Anybody have any ideas or what to work on a fun activity? We are currently calling Cathy the Queen of fun! Thanks for organizing this, Cathy.
All, Mark has been cleared by the national Quiz chairman to attend Quiz! Welcome aboard, Mark. I know you all will make a GREAT team. Your other teammates are Kailtylyn Tomaskovic (Tejas), Haley Heathcock and Emma Weathers (both of Bayou CIty) and now Mark Burns (Red Rock).
We would like to welcome the following new members:
Alamo - Lauren and Nicole
Bayou City - Jonna, Heather, Shelby
Big Thicket - Halee and Candice
Hill Top - Egan
San Jacinto - Sarah
Tejas - Mary
Windy Riders - Elizabeth
Welcome to Pony Club! I hope that you enjoy your membership.
A special congratulations is in order for the following pony clubbers on achieving their next rating:
From Lone Star Allison and Sara are now D2’s and Megan and Sarah are now D3’s.
From Fiesta Brandon, Meghan, Lauren, and Harlee are now D2’s.
From Hill Top Houston and Melanie are now D3’s and Emily, Francesca, and Madita are now D2’s.
Every rating advancement deserves a special congratulations. Congratulations on all your hard work and successful advancement!
Meet the Regional Youth Council.
The following bio’s are from your regional youth council members. Hopefully this will give you an opportunity to know a bit more about the kids and also be able to share your ideas with them. Currently the council is working on ways to make pony club more fun, making recommendations for extra rally awards, helping plan the big September Event (Barn Fair, Banquet, Clinics, etc.), and making recommendations on the upper level clinics. If you have any ideas or suggestions, I’m sure that they would love to hear form you.
The fearless group is lead by adult liaison Claire Harmon.
Due to having only 6 teams in SJ, we are going to run this rally like we did dressage: an overnight rally. Friday will be like all our other rallies. Saturday will be a very long day. I think we will be done by 7pm. Folks will then have the option of packing up and going home or spending the night. TET MEMBERS WILL STILL HAVE COMPETITION ON SUNDAY MORNING.
This is again going to make it a long day. With the change in entry numbers, we must try some new things.
Marybeth, VRS Rallies and Championships
Its time for the Rio Grande Region to “Shoot for the Stars”! The Houston JW Marriott at the Galleria will be the location for the 2010 USPC Annual Meeting January 20-24. The Rio Grande Region kicked off our volunteer recruitment and planning with a meeting after Quiz Rally. The winner of the logo contest was also unveiled at Quiz Rally, and congratulations go to Katherine Burn D1 of the Red Rock Pony Club.
Key volunteers have been identified for most areas, but we are still looking for a few folks to head up the following divisions: Ads and Sponsorships, Publicity, Signage, and Proceedings Book. Much help is needed both before and during the meeting to make this event successful.
Help is also needed from the clubs. Each club will asked to donate 5 items for the silent auction, price ranging from $25 to $100. Items can be horse or non-horse related, new or vintage. We encourage each club to be creative and celebrate your unique character. Cathy Hoysa from Hill Top PC will be leading this division, and more information will be available soon.
Also coming soon is the 2010 website. Kim Meraz and Julie Ristano have been working to develop the site, which will become a valuable communication tool for all of us as we plan this exciting event.
Thank you for all who have already volunteered, and we look forward to hearing form the rest of you!
2010 Annual Meeting Co-chairs, Erin Wright uspc2010@gmail.com, Julie Herman juliewrayh@sbcglobal.net, and Vicki Taylor beecreekfarm@ymail.com
At the age of 2, my mother bought a 2-year-old paint named Cody that was the beginning of my riding career. As Cody was being trained at a western barn, mom did showmanship and halter classes with Cody and I got led around. When I was big enough to steer on my own, I began riding the most stubborn paint pony you’ll ever meet named Cinnamon. We moved into a house with land when I turned four, and by five we had begun ‘the search’ for my pony. After being drug across Texas to try out what must have been 50 ponies, we ended up with Spanky. He was a 14 hand gray POA and 20 years old when he came to the Hart house. He was the kind of pony that knew every trick in the bag and truly taught me how to ride. After plodding around the pasture like any kid should, taking lessons on the weekends, I made my first outing to the Martha Josey Barrel Racing Camp in Marshall, TX. We found out Spanky wouldn’t drink away from home. When my instructor went to college, I started taking English riding lessons from Jayne Lloyd Stewart and Spanky learned to jump at the age of 23.
I was tricked into the purchase of my second horse, Daisy. She also is an appaloosa, but having a mare was a new experience entirely. At 14’3, she took me from green as grass to training level Eventing and taught me to love Dressage. Daisy and I went to USPC Nationals at the Virginia Horse Park for Dressage in 2006 and the Kentucky Horse Park for Eventing in 2007. Only after months of preparation and lessons with Claire Harmon did I achieve my C-3 in March 2008 on Daisy in the Red River Region after it had just snowed 11 inches and we froze the entire weekend. The next weekend, my third horse arrived in Texas. After learning so much and developing great relationships with the first two, I decided I wanted another appaloosa as my next eventer. We searched for over 6 months all over the country before we found Cruiser. We even got passports and were ready to fly to Canada to look at a gelding when he got injured a couple weeks before our flight. Cruiser came from Albuquerque, New Mexico where he had been bred and grown up on a very impressive appaloosa breeding farm. He had just turned 5 and was already 16’3, his mom was a 17 hand thoroughbred dressage mare.
I am now using all of the help that pony club has given me to train a highly inquisitive and energetic 17 hand spitfire gelding that loves to jump. My aspirations are to achieve my A rating and to compete at Rolex CCI**** on an appaloosa, and hopefully go to the Olympics some day.
Congratulations to our winning Quiz Teams! In the Jr DA division, the Hill Top Brazos Scramble team placed first. In Division Jr D B the winning team was Tejas and Bayou City won the Senior Division. Our qualifiers for Junior D nationals are: Aly, Brittney, Madeline, McKenna, and Elizabeth and Lissa are alternates. Kaitlyn, Haley, Caitlyn, and Emma qualified for the senior division with Mark and Vickie as alternates. Once again Marybeth organized an outstanding and challenging rally and our competitors rose to the challenge. Congratulations to everyone for a job well done.
There is lots of celebrating going on. Lone Star is celebrating the D3 achievement of Aly and Madison. Brazos has 2 new D2’s: Riley and Elizabeth and a new D3: Allie. Congratulations on your success.
We heard a lot at the annual meeting about the need for Pony Club to change to better meet the needs of horse crazy kids in the future. The instruction committee is looking at a number of possibilities for the future including a western track, a horse management only track, and possibly adding a new type of membership for virtual members. There is a big push to get some new programs in place before 2010 when many people will be visiting the Kentucky Horse Park and walking by the Pony Club office to enter the park. See the word below from Lorelei Wilson Coplen, VP, Instruction.
"We are also starting to look *conceptually* at other Standards development:
an Eventing Specialty (in the capable hands of the National Testing
Committee for further development) ; the Horse Management Specialty (in the
hands of our subject-experts in Horse management Committee as described
above); a “virtual” program (to our Curriculum Committee); and a Western
track (still looking for a few good men and women to help me with that
one!)."
There is a visiting Instructor Program where clubs or regions can apply for an upper level instructor from another region to come teach a clinic or camp. There are standard daily and weekly rates for these instructors and the club making the request is also required to pay travel and living expenses for the instructor during the time of their stay. This is a great cross-cultural exchange for your clubs to find out more about Pony Club in other parts of the country. Applications are available at www.ponyclub.org. If you need a little extra incentive there are also grants available to help pay for the cost of getting the instructor (the Anne Lenhert Memorial Fund).
Pacific Coast Championship, hosted by Oregon Region, will be held in Auburn, Washington from August 10-16, 2009. Eventing (Beginner Novice - Preliminary), Show Jumping, Dressage, Games, Polocrosse, Tetrathalon, & Quiz will all be offered in a new mega rally format. Competitors will only be required to stay for the length of their competition phase and will be allowed to enter more than one competition as long as the competitions are not scheduled for the same day.
Each region can send their top two teams in each level of each discipline! Check out the Oregon Region website at www.oregon.ponyclub.org for more information.
This year D3’s that meet the age requirements will be able to be stable managers. B’s in addition to HA’s and A’s will no longer be required to qualify.
There are changes in many of the disciplines. Details will be outlined in the discipline newsletters that will be out soon. Some of the changes are: In dressage riders will ride their higher level test twice and lower level test once in addition to their freestyle. Show Jumping has added a developing rider/green horse division that is open to D’s and are at least 12 years old. Jumps will be 2’9” to 3 feet and there will be no triples. Polocross has lowered age requirements in each division and has also re-defined height requirements for horses and ponies.
Championships East will be held in Lexington, Virginia from July 22-26. Be watching for the Gold Book, out later this Spring for schedules and details.
Pony Club is working to send 1 quadrille team to the WEG! This group will ride multiple times over a multi day period in order to showcase pony club and quadrille. The team will be selected at Championships in 2010. Consider starting some quadrille in your club. If anyone is interested in a regional quadrille group, let me know.
Pony Club has created a new internet group to encourage the exchange of ideas and social interaction of pony clubbers, leaders, and adult volunteers in pony club. This new group was announced at the annual meeting and people have already signed up. Check it out at http://www.uspriders.ning.com There is a lower age requirement for membership. (I think that it might be 12 or 13).
Please note that the Board of Govenors accepted the proposed changes to the standards of proficiency. The new standards have been posted to the pony club website www.ponyclub.org under whats new, 2009 Standards of Proficiency. Beginning immediately all tests MUST use the new standards. Follow the directions given on the website.
Becky, HA from San Jacinto, was accepted to be on the first National Youth Board. Becky, along with 6 other pony clubbers from across the nation, worked together over the past year on a proposal that they submitted to the Board of Governors this past weekend. The Board accepted their proposal and Becky became one of the first 6 members of this national leadership group. Becky will represent our pony clubbers along with those from adjoined regions to the Board. Thanks for all your hard work on making this a reality! Pony Clubbers should contact Becky if they have thoughts that should be submitted to the board. We look forward to hearing more from you, Becky, about the activities of this group.
This year the RGR summer camps have new registration options as well as new camp opportunities. Recent state regulations have created the need for the region to offer our camps as 1-3 day sections (primarily for the purposes of registration). Camp fees include housing, meals, lessons and stabling.
The Upper level camp will consist of Section A: June 17 & 18 and Section B: June 19 & 20 (you may register for either section or both sections). Each section will be $188 or both for $376
The Regional camp will consist of Section C: June 22 & 24 and Section D: June 25 & 26 (you may register for either section or both sections).
Section C will be $225, Section D will be $150 or both for $375
We are also offering two new camp opportunities this year. There will be a one day unmounted camp for UR and D1 pony clubbers – June 23. Cost of the one day camp will be $50. We will also be including a two day mini-camp for our Horsemasters groups - June 19 & 20. Fee for the Horsemasters camp will be $120.
Please read the descriptions of each section carefully to assure that you sign up for the appropriate level.
The RGR Upper level Camp is open to C2’s and up. The mounted lessons will include Dressage, Stadium Jumping, grid work and cross-country. Unmounted lessons will cover topics related to the HB and HA ratings as well as lunging and teaching. There will also be a Dressage only option which replaces some of the jumping sessions with additional flatwork, cavaletti work and pacing.
Regional Camp is open to D1 and up, 8 years old and older and must be able to tack and untack their ponies independently and perform daily horsekeeping chores. Mounted lessons will include flatwork/Dressage, stadium jumping, grid work and cross-country. Unmounted will cover a wide range of topics related to their rating level. This year there is a Dressage/flatwork only option for the kids that are not comfortable jumping and would prefer to do flatwork.
The one day unmounted camp is open to unrated and D1’s of all ages. Participants will participate in “stick horse” riding activities as well as horse management topics related to their rating level.
Again this year, we are offering a working students options which is open to those who have attended one or both sections of the upper level camp. Participants will stay on for one or more of the Regional Camp sections to assist with unmounted and mounted (with supervision) instruction. They will also have one riding lesson each day on their horses. There will be a limit of 6 working students per section.
If you have any questions you may contact Vicki Taylor at beecreekfarm@earthlink.net or 512-917-2470.
Send registration forms and a $50 non-refundable deposit to: Deadline is April 15
Vicki Taylor
3023 FM 20
Red Rock, TX 78662
Make checks payable to Rio Grande Region
One deposit will cover all sections you sign up for.
Welcome Home for our International Tet Competitor, Sara. Sara finished 6th in the International Competition. We are anxious to see your pictures and hear your stories!
Musical Freestyle: Tell the Announcer about your music
MUSICAL FREESTYLE: Instructions and Questionnaire
Fiona Jones, San Jacinto Pony Club, Announcer extraordinaire has provided the following questions and CD labeling instructions to help you with your musical freestyle. Your answers will help the announcer tell the spectators about your performance and musical choices.
1. Length music in minutes and seconds? (must be under 5 minutes after first halt/salute)
2. Have you prepared two copies of your CD of tape for announcer to use?
3. What is the musical style: (ie. jazz, classical, contemporary etc.)
4. What is the title of your music?
or How would you like it to be announced?
5. Why did you choose this music?
6. Does your music contain three distinct tempos to match your horse’s walk (4 beat), trot (2 beat), and canter (3 beat)?
7. How long have you worked on the choreography to this music?
8. Did you develop this yourself of did you have the help of your trainer?
9. Have you ever performed musical kür at USPC events before? If so, when and what?
10. Has you horse ever performed a musical kür before? If so, when and what?
11. a) Where would you like the music to start?
b) Does your music start before or after your halt/salute?
c) Will you signal the announcer for the music to start?
12. Have you labeled your actual CD’s (not just the case)?
Required information on your CD
NAME: _________________
COMPETITOR # /DIV #: _________________
CLUB: _________________
MUSIC TITLE: _________________
MUSIC START: _________________
COMPETITOR SIGNAL: YES or NO
Congratulations to all our competitors at championships. Check out the pony club website for details and photos.
Our tet competitors were big winners. Sara finiahed 1st overall. Way to go Sara.
I just wanted to remind everyone that Championships will be starting on July 24th. Our region has 15 members who will be participating, representing the Rio Grande Region. To all of them, we wish you a safe trip and a wonderful experience in their respective disciplines.
We have 6 members that were scheduled to go, but had to scratch due to horse lamenesses and illness. These members were our first ever qualified games team , Lone Star Lightning (Darcy and Allie of Brazos, Tori and Elle of Instride, and Fallon of Windy Riders). Sarah H of San Jacinto was scheduled to go in Dressage, but had to scratch due to illness. As she so humorously put it, she has to do required "stall rest:" for a while. I hope they will all try again next year.
The members attending are:
Junior Quiz: Aly M (Lone Star), Shelby H (Lone Star) and Michelle T (SAn Jacinto)
Senior Quiz: Kaitlyn T (San Jacinto), Caitlyn S (Bayou City), Emma W (Bayou City),Haley H (Bayou CIty)
Tetrathlon: Sara L (Brazos), Kendra W (Bayou City), Anndee S (Windy Riders), Lizzie and Jessie S (Tejas)
Dressage: Elizabeth B (Brazos)
Eventing: Carolyn and Mary Frances C (Instride)
Thanks to these members for working so hard to represent our region and thanks to their parents for the enormous amount of support they give to get them to Championships.
We will be looking forward to hearing all about it on your return.
Congratulations to Becky B on achieving the HA rating!
The Rio Grande Region wants to congratulate Becky B of the San Jacinto Pony Club. Becky earned her B rating this weekend. In December she passed the H/HA. Combining these ratings makes her our newest HA. Way to go Becky! We are all proud of you!
I would like to thank Barbara Hoffman for her many years of service to Pony Club. Barbara has been DC of Hood Pony Club for many years and kept Hood alive during some very difficult times. Barbara has also previously served as Vice RS of Administration. Barbara is stepping down because of other demands on her time.
I would like to welcome Deanne Shead as the new DC of Hood. Many thanks to Deanne for stepping up to this job. Good Luck Deanne and let us know how we can help you.
Region polo shirts -Inquire about ordering from RS. Kids wear region shirts and matching shorts/pants in Opening Ceremony.
Region pin trading - Region supplies 3 free pins to each competitor. Inquire as to who is bringing pin supply to Championships so that you can buy more. Trading regional pins is a fun thing for kids to do.
Phone Numbers- Everyone (kids and parents) trade cell phone numbers prior to leaving Texas. Have a paper copy as well as storing them in your cell phone.
Region Tent- Find out who is setting up the Region Tent and where it will be. This is a good meeting place for parents to relax between activities and a place for kids to come to pick up lunches, etc.
Chaperones- Arrange with kids in the morning about when they want to pick up lunches. Making sack lunches at least part of the week is a good idea as vendor food is limited and expensive and lines can be long and time-consuming.
As soon as you get your packet with coupon for Championships t-shirt, go get your shirt ASAP because they will run out of the popular sizes ie: Child’s Large, Adult small very quickly.
On the night of Opening Ceremony, plan to order pizza and have it ready for everyone to eat at the horse park as there will be little time between barns closing and the ceremony, and it will make for a very late night to go out to eat after the ceremony.
While at Championships the three main places to get information:
USPC Information Tent—directions, info. on competitions, programs, Poop-N-Scoop newsletters.
Championships Office—competitor packet pick-up, info. on competitions, course maps
Stabling Office—anything related to stalls
Info. varies based on volunteer knowledge.
Be aware that you may get 3 different answers from the 3 places!
Travel Tips
Get your health certificate two weeks before you leave. Since they are good for only 1 month this gives an extra week after championships to get home.
Give your horse an extra flu shot when you get the health certificate
Talk to your vet about giving bute to help prevent soreness during the trip. Do not forget to get vet notes for all medicines you will or might need.
For layover stables on the way, see: www.horsemotel.com or www.horsetrip.com
Layover reservations would probably best be made by end of May.
Virginia direction:
Brandon MS area (first night)
Walnut Creek Farm in Piney Flats TN (423-915-8931) (2nd night and first night returning)
Fancy Hill Farms in Lexington VA (540-291-1000) (3rd night / rest night)
Kentucky direction:
Arkansas: Saddle Creek Stables-Hazen, AR or Crowley’s Ridge Overnight Stabling-Forrest City, AR
Tennessee: Memphis County Fairgrounds
Allowing an extra day between arriving at Championships and check-in day to give horse time to rest and kids final prep time. Depending on trip, you might need an extra day after the end of Championships before beginning the trip home to provide rest for both horse and people.
Arrangements can possibly be made to arrive early/layover at the horse park or at nearby farms which are horse motels.
Travel from 4:30 AM-3 PM is advisable to avoid heat. If traveling from 3PM - 6PM, try to avoid high traffic areas in large cities to avoid stop and go traffic.
Add 1 1/2 to 2 hrs. to Mapquest time estimates to allow for 15 min. stops every 3 -4 hrs and 1 hr. stop if feeding on the road.
Some horses do not like to drink on the road. To help them drink (the water tastes funny to them as well), put alfalfa (cubes or hay) into the water.
If horse needs feed soaked (ie: beet pulp), take a Snap-Loc container (Container Store) along so that water/feed can be mixed at hotel or on the road prior to stopping to feed.
Take an extra set of shoes for your horse so that on-site farrier does not have to find exact match and you can be sure the shoes are correct. Consider having clips put on shoes to minimize shoe loss. If possible, have your farrier check your horse a couple of days before you leave.
Standing wraps with bell boots help protect the legs as well as provide support in the trailer
THINGS YOU NEED TO TAKE TO MAKE LIFE EASIER
50 ft. coil hose and spray nozzle (for filling buckets and washing horse at wash racks)
25 ft. heavy-duty 3-prong extension cord (for hanging fan)
box fan for stall
One standing fan for the tack room (coordinate with your team)
adjustable webbed straps or bungee cords (for hanging fan)
8 ft. x 10 ft. tarp for sweeping shavings onto from stall when moving from one stall to next or when stripping stall; HMJ strongly advises NOT to place tarp under shavings in stall as horse may slip on it.
large-bladed shovel for scooping out shavings when stripping stalls
dolly/wagon for moving hay, shavings bags, tack, etc.
mats to cover 9 ft. x 9 ft. or 8 ft. x 9 ft. area in 10ft. x 10 ft. stall (KHP) or 10 ft. x 12 ft. stall (VA). Stalls have concrete floors, and horses have been known to go lame if bedded only with shavings.
*Do not plan mats to cover entire area as stalls are not square and cutting mats on site is very difficult! For KHP, two 4ft. x 6ft. rubber stall mats plus one 4 ft. x 6 ft. cut in half to make two, 3 ft. x 4 ft. mats worked well. Lightweight closed-cell foam stall mats may also be purchased through: www.freelonicstablemats.com; www.therubberman.com; or www.stallmats.com. Interlocking exercise mats (2 x 2 squares) like those obtained from Academy also work well.
ACCOMODATIONS
IF YOU ARE EVEN THINKING ABOUT QUALIFYING, BUT ARE NOT SURE, RESERVE HOTEL OR CAMPGROUND IN JANUARY OR FEBRUARY. THEY WILL BE MOSTLY FILLED BY MARCH/APRIL. RESERVATIONS CAN ALWAYS BE CANCELLED WITH NO PENALTY PLUS YOU WILL GET A BETTER RATE IF RESERVED EARLIER. HOTELS IN LEXINGTON, VA. ARE LESS PLENTIFUL AND NOT AS CONVENIENT AS IN KY. (If hotels claim to be full even when you tell them that it is for USPC Championships , call USPC headquarters and ask if they have other rooms blocked which might be available since you really need one in order to come to Championships. Note: If you are a Barn Fair presenter, be sure to ask about rooms reserved for you.)
Lexington Virginia Information
Virginia Horse Center campground is first-come, first-serve. Sites have water and electric. Sites appear to be primarily in an open field with little shade. This campground does not have the amenities of KHP. See Virginia Horse Center webpage for other campgrounds.
Hotels fill up fast in Lexington so you might need to drive a little.
Natural Bridge (30 min drive) – very nice if you are going for quiz
Buena Vista (15 min drive) – not too bad if you have to get to the barn early to take care of a horse.
Quick observation – as you get away from Lexington, the restaurants close very early (sometimes by 7 PM). If you are late at the horse park, eat before you go to your hotel/motel.
Lexington Kentucky Information
Georgetown, KY is less than 10 mins. north of KHP on I-75. Exit 126 has the following:
(Request rooms away from the Interstate side of the hotel, especially for Fairfield Inn.) Country Inn & Suites Fairfield Inn King bed + sofa bed are inconvenient—have to climb over sofa bed to get to bathroom. Comfort Inn & Suites Best Western Hampton Inn
Food Cracker Barrel Fazoli’s O’Charley’s (similar to but better than Chili’s) Mi Mexico
Important sites Walmart Gas stations with diesel
Hotels near Newtown Pike/Circle Road and Newtown Pike/I-64/75 are also convenient.
Holiday Inn has bad reviews—“moldy”, “musty”, “noisy”, not near restaurants.
KHP is north of Lexington, KY. near the junction of I-64/I-75 N.
Lexington airport is 25 mins. away on west side of town.
Louisville airport is about 1 1/2 hrs. away.
Kentucky Horse Park campground is very nice. Nice grass, shade trees, no fire ants, and few mosquitoes. Campground has nice showers, small store, Laundromat, swimming pool, volleyball court, playscape. Both pull-through and back-in sites accommodate horse trailers. Sites have water/electric. Camping in large tents which accommodate small cots with sleeping pads or AeroBeds can be very comfortable. Campsites towards back half of campground are desirable as they are closer to back entrance on Nina Bonnie which goes everywhere you want to go for Championships. Check with USPC to see if they are reserving blocks of sites for Championships (sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t). Sites can be reserved through:
1-888-459-7275 or follow links from KHP campground page for on-line.
MISCELLANEOUS
--At KHP, Dever’s is an on-site store for feed, hay, bedding, and ice. Pre-order bedding on-line so that bedding will be delivered to your stall just prior to your arrival so that you can quickly get the stall ready for your horse. Three bags of shavings to completely bed stall is recommended plus one bag to add per day. Dever’s is open each day so shavings, etc. can be ordered as needed also. (859-233-9702)
This advice is provided by Carolyn Mixon with a few additions from Leisha Mullins. An excellent source of information for the trip to Virginia is Candy Brake.
For a pdf version of Championship Advice, please click the following link
Congratulations to Emily H., our most recent C3. Emily and Daisy travelled to Red River Region where Emily got to ride Cross Country in the snow on March 8 and 9 and was awarded her C3 rating.
Sara L., A C3 from Brazos Pony Club, has been named to the International Tetrathlon Team. The International Team, composed of 4 girls and 4 boys representing the best of the competitors in USPC will be traveling to Ireland in August for competition and cultural exchange. It is very exciting to have a member of Rio Grande Region representing USPC. Congratulations Sara for the fulfillment of a dream. I hope that the trip is exciting and educational. We are proud of you!
Our very own Lizzie and Jesse attended the tet rally in Deep South Region. Lizzie finished first and Jesse finished third! Way to go girls. Lizzie has also qualified for championships!
It was a busy weekend at Eventing Rally. We all enjoyed some fantastic weather and some good riding. Thank you to the competitors that were competing at the appropriate level for their riding skills!
Congratulations to the following teams:
Division 1 Horse Management Champions: Bayou City/San Jacinto
Reserve Champions: San Jacinto/Tejas
Division 1 Overall Champion: Alamo/Tejas
Overall Second Place: Brazos/In Stride
Division 2 Horse Management and Overall Champions: Brazos/In Stride/San Jacinto/Red Rock
Reserve Champion: Bayou City/San Jacinto/Tejas/In Stride/Red Rock
Special Thanks to Rachelle for great horse management teaching and Marybeth for her overall FANTASTIC rally planning and execution! We are lucky to have such talented and dedicated volunteers. Thanks ladies!
Mark your calendars and put on your dancing shoes - we are going to have a party! You will not want to miss this event.
The Rio Grande Region Annual banquet will be Saturday, March 29, 2008. The banquet will be in the Austin area this year in conjunction with the Standards and Ratings Clinic.
Rio Grande Region Annual Banquet 2008
Date: Saturday, March 29, 2008
Time: 7:00 to 11:00pm
Place: Ballroom, Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark
4140 Governor’s Row
Austin, TX 78744
512.448.2222 Ph
Cost: $25 Children 12 and under $30 Young Adults 13-20 $35 Adults
Make checks payable to Rio Grande Region and mail prior to March 14, 2008 to :
Rachelle Cyrier, HMO
USPC Rio Grande Region
1301 Westwood Rd.
Lockhart, TX 78644
512.376.5072 h
512.557.2081 c
Accommodations:
Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark Special Rate: $115/night
4140 Governor’s Row
Austin, TX 78744
800.843.6664 Ph
The Omni extended a room block to us for Saturday, March 29 at the rate of $115/night. Please note the rooms are subject to state and local taxes, currently at 15%. Guests should call the central reservation system at 1-800-THE-OMNI (1-800-843-6664) for reservations. Please be sure to request reservations under the USPC Rio Grande Region by 5pm on Saturday, March 8, 2008, the cut-off date. After this date, any remaining rooms will be released for general sale, and any additional reservations will be subject to room and rate availability. Individuals will be responsible for their own room, tax, and incidentals. Any cancellations after 48 hours from the day of arrival will be charged one night’s room and tax. If the room block should fill, the Hotel may increase the block based on space and rate availability.
I have been asked to help develop a Regional Junior Board for Rio Grande. This is very exciting.
The Rio Grande Region is looking for a few dedicated pony club members to become regional leaders. As a member of the junior board you will meet with other pony club leaders to help improve the quality of our programs and to communicate to adult leadership on desires of the all pony club members.
It is anticipated that the junior board will meet in person at least twice a year. The first meeting will be following Aggie Day. The meeting will begin with dinner followed by a "sleep-over" graciously hosted by the Mullins in College Station.
As a member of the junior board you will be expected to:
Be a USPC member in good standing
Interface with one or more clubs
Spend about an hour a week meeting virtually (sending e-mail communications, etc.)
Bring to the board the requests of your club
The deadline for this information is 12/31. Participants will be chosen based on their prior pony club participation and response to the following questions:
Your name, rating, age, club, and e-mail address
What is your definition of a Jr. Board?
Why would you like to be a member?
What would you like to contribute?
I am looking forward to working with the junior board. If improving our regional activities interests you please send me an e-mail (claireharmon@aol.com).
