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Issue One THE 2019
Q u a r te r l y
Official Publication of the United States Icelandic Horse Congress
Member Association of FEIF (International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations)
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 1
IN THE BEAUTIFUL CASCADE MOUNTAIN RANGE
OF THE PACIFIC NORTH WEST
PROUD TO REPRESENT
FULL ICELANDIC FACILITY
SALES - LESSONS - TRAINING
BOARDING - BREEDING
CLINICS - TACK
HOME TO
ÞRÖSTUR FRA HVAMMI
THE HIGHEST EVALUATED
STALLION IN NORTH AMERICA
CONFORMATION 8.53
RIDDEN ABILITIES 8.63
TÖLT 9- TROT 9- WALK 9
BREED TO THE PROVEN BEST
CONTACT US FOR 2017 BREEDING LOCATIONS
info@tolttack.com - 541 490 0975 WWW.REDFEATHERICELANDICS.COM
Dick and Linda Templeton
linda@redfeathericelandics.com - 541-490-0975
2 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 3
4 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019
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issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 5
UNITED STATES ICELANDIC HORSE CONGRESS • www.icelandics.org
THE
USIHC
MISSION
Photo of Loki from Bel Di (US2006104223) by Jean Ervasti
• To promote the knowledge of the
Icelandic horse within the United
States and its correct use as a com-
petition and riding horse.
• To keep a registry of purebred Ice-
landic horses in the United States.
• To facilitate communication among
all USIHC members.
• To represent the United States in
FEIF.
W H Y J O I N T H E U S I H C ?
A
The U.S. Icelandic Horse Congress is s the owner or rider of an Icelan- gram, and offers practical and monetary
a member of FEIF (www.feif.org), the dic horse, you chose a very special support to organizers of shows and clinics.
breed with its own culture and The Icelandic horse has international
International Federation of Icelandic history. It is important to learn about the competition rules: You can compete in the
Horse Associations, representing the breed’s unique traits, capabilities, and same classes and receive comparable scores
needs, so that you and your Icelandic in any FEIF member country. Likewise, the
national Icelandic horse associations
horse will have a happy relationship and it Icelandic horse is one of few breeds with
of 21 countries. FEIF governs competition will live a healthy and long life. By joining international evaluation standards, so that
the USIHC, you connect to a worldwide breeding horses from all over the world are
activities and regulates the breeding and
network of experts to help you care for, judged on the same 10 points of conforma-
registration of Icelandic horses through- ride, train, breed, and learn more about tion and 10 ridden abilities. The USIHC
out the world outside of Iceland. your horse. sanctions sport and breeding shows that
The USIHC is the umbrella organiza- conform to FEIF rules.
tion of 14 affiliated clubs: 13 regional clubs The USIHC is responsible for the U.S.
The USIHC was formed in 1987 by and one activity club focused on breeding. teams at the FEIF Icelandic Horse World
Our Registry links to WorldFengur, the Championships, the FEIF Youth Cup, and
representatives of the U.S. Icelandic worldwide database of all registered the FEIF Youth Camp. Through FEIF, the
Horse Federation and the International Icelandic horses (USIHC members have USIHC votes on rules and policies that
free access to WorldFengur), and we affect the welfare of the Icelandic horse
Icelandic Horse Association to meet publish The Icelandic Horse Quarterly, main- worldwide.
the FEIF rule that only one association taining an online archive of all issues since As a member of the USIHC, your dues
2008. and registration fees make all this possible.
from each country is allowed to Our board members and committee chairs
The USIHC sponsors scientific
represent the breed. research on the Icelandic horse, helps are all volunteers. As a member-driven
promote the Icelandic horse at expos and organization, the USIHC grows stronger
through social media, supports educational the more active and involved our members
seminars and events like the American become. Please join us so that the USIHC
Youth Cup, organizes leisure activities like can, as FEIF’s mission states, “bring people
the Sea 2 Shining Sea virtual ride, creates together in their passion for the Icelandic
teaching tools like the Riding Badge Pro- horse.”
6 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 7
THE
ICELANDIC HORSE
Q u a r te r l y
ICELANDIC
HORSE
QUARTERLY
Issue One 2019 8 NEWS
Official Publication of the United States
Icelandic Horse Congress (USIHC),
9 USIHC News
a member association of FEIF
(International Federation of Icelandic 14 FEIF News
Horse Associations).
16 Club Updates
©2019 All rights reserved.
The Icelandic Horse Quarterly is published in
March, June, September, and December 26 FEATURES
by the USIHC as a benefit of membership.
Renew online at www.icelandics.org. 26 Riders of the Month by Lori Cretney
Deadlines are January 1 (for the March 28 Fit & Rarin’ to Ride by Kara Noble
issue), April 1, July 1, and October 1. We
reserve the right to edit submissions. All 30 From No Tölt to First Prize by Lucy Nold
articles represent the opinions of their
authors alone; publication in the Quarterly 33 Staying Centered on the Knik River Ramble by Alys Culhane
does not imply an endorsement of any
kind by the USIHC. Ads are accepted with 36 Sport 101: Loose Rein Tölt by Alex Pregitzer
the understanding that the advertiser is
authorized to publish their contents and
agrees to indemnify the USIHC and the
Quarterly against any loss or expense result-
ing from their publication. The USIHC
reserves the right to reject any ad.
Quarterly Committee:
Margot Apple, Andrea Brodie,
Nancy Marie Brown(co-editor),
Leslie Chambers, Alys Culhane,
Nicki Esdorn (co-editor), Eileen USIHC CONTACTS
Gunipero, Em Jacobs, Constance Directors Registry
Kollmann, Gabriele Meyer, Celeste
Committees
President@icelandics.org c/o Ásta Covert
Newcomb, Kara Noble, Anne Owen, Affiliated_clubs@icelandics.org Will Covert (805-688-1393) P.O. Box 1724
Alex Pregitzer, Chris Romano, Leslie Chambers (860-334-8259) Santa Ynez, CA 93460
Judy Strehler, Nancy Wines-Dewan, Vice_president@icelandics.org
Breeding@icelandics.org Toll free: 866-929-0009
Lynn Wiese Lori Cretney (262-495-8745)
Sherry Hoover (330-635-5623) registry@icelandics.org
Advertising: Jean Ervasti (917-648-8824 Secretary@icelandics.org
or jjjervasti@hotmail.com) Competition@icelandics.org Sherry Hoover (330-635-5623) Main Office
Ásta Covert, interim (805-688-1393)
Treasurer@icelandics.org United States Icelandic
Graphic Design: James Collins
Education@icelandics.org Kari Pietsch-Wangard Horse Congress
Will Covert (805-688-1393) (414-322-3214) c/o Kari Pietsch-Wangard
On the cover: Breeder Susy Oliver
Kari Pietsch-Wangard 300 South Sawyer Road
captured this photo of little Ljufur Leslie Chambers
(414-322-3214) Oconomowoc, WI 53066
from Tolthaven (US2017105277), (lchambers17@comcast.net)
Leisure@icelandics.org Toll free: 866-929-0009
with his beautiful mother Glódís von
Janet Mulder (907-351-4473) Janet Mulder info@icelandics.org
Hof Osterkamp (US2001204289),
when he was just one day old. Ljufur (907-351-4473)
Promotion@icelandics.org Website
is a son of Álfadans frá Ingolfshvoli Emily Potts
Emily Potts (413-531-6336)
(US1996104217). Susy says, “He (413-531-6336) www.icelandics.org
has his parents’ elegance, charisma, Quarterly@icelandics.org webhelp@icelandics.org
and warm personality—exactly what Nancy Brown (802-626-4220) Linda Templeton
Tolthaven strives to breed.” Nicki Esdorn (914-826-5159) (541-490-0975)
Youth@icelandics.org
Linda Templeton (541-490-0975)
8 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019
USIHC NEWS
ANNUAL MEETING evaluations, to setting personal breeding
The USIHC Annual Meeting, hosted by the goals. We left the classroom to practice
Northeast Icelandic Horse Club (NEIHC), the conformation portion of a breed
was held in Boston, MA on January 19. In evaluation. Armed with the tools used
addition to presentations by the USIHC in an actual evaluation, we measured
Board of Directors and Committee Chairs several horses, all the while taking in our
(which are summarized in this section of instructor’s tips on handling the tools
the magazine), the meeting featured Nancy with the horse.”
Marie Brown speaking on “Horses in the The committee’s goals for 2019
Sagas” and Svanhildur Hall leading a discus- include organizing another breeding
sion on “Setting Clear Breeding Goals and seminar, continuing its involvement with
How to Achieve Them.” breeding horse evaluations, and adding a
stallion section to the Quarterly.
AFFILIATED CLUBS
The USIHC began 2018 with 14 Regional BREEDING SHOWS
Clubs and the Gæðingar Club, an activi- Three breeding horse evaluations were
ty club for those interested in breeding, dic horse riders in the U.S. to our parent held in 2018. The Léttleiki Icelandics
committee chair Leslie Chambers reported. organization, FEIF, for the purpose of Breeding Evaluations, held in Shelbyville,
Before the year ended, an additional activity allocating voting rights in the international KY, was managed by Maggie Brandt with
club was formed: Sleipnir, the Icelandic organization. Prior to 2017, FEIF rules only help from Lori Cretney; the judges were
Horse Trainer and Instructors Guild of allowed us to count paid USIHC members. Marlise Grimm and Elsa Albertsdóttir. Five
North America. When FEIF redefined “membership” to let mares were evaluated, with total scores
Ten of the 14 Regional Clubs held us count members of affiliated clubs who ranging from 7.47 to 8.16. Kvika from Four
clinics or schooling shows, which were are not USIHC members, our tally jumped Winds Farm, ridden and trained by Terral
supported by Policy 31 funding from the from 650 in 2016 to 1,008. That gained the Hill, earned first prize with 8.16.
USIHC. The clubs reported that this educa- U.S. an additional vote in FEIF. The New York Breeding Evaluation,
tional initiative helped their members enjoy For 2018 our tally remains at 1,008, at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds in New York,
and understand their horses using ground which allows us to keep our three-vote was managed by Shannon Fitzgerald, with
work, liberty training, dressage, and general status in FEIF. the assistance of Martina Gates and Amy
riding instruction. However, according to the USIHC
The USIHC paid out $2500 of the Goddard; the judges were Nina Bergholtz
Secretary’s report, as of January 2019 the
$3500 budgeted for this program. Each Re- and Jens Füchtenschnieder. Ten horses
USIHC has 619 members in 515 house-
gional Club was eligible for one $250 grant. were evaluated for conformation, with
holds. Comparing the two sets of numbers,
scores ranging from 7.69 to 8.16. Five
FEIF CENSUS Leslie Chambers noted, “again suggests we
of the 10 horses completed the Ridden
have a large number of folks who belong
The Affiliated Clubs Committee also Abilities section of the evaluation process,
to an affiliated club and not the USIHC
provides data on the number of Icelan- with scores ranging from 7.17 to 8.07.
and the converse—many folks who belong
Zophonías from Vinland, ridden by Helga
to the USIHC are not members of an affili-
Una Björnsdóttir and trained by Martina
ated club. The Affiliated Clubs Committee
Gates, earned first prize with 8.11.
continues to discuss ways to increase mem-
The Breeding Evaluation at Harmony
bership for both the clubs and the USIHC,
Icelandics in Peru, IA, was managed by
but to date most ideas have proved to have
Deborah Cook, with assistance from Kydee
too many administrative issues to make
Sheetz and Katrin Sheehan; the judges
them viable.”
were Nina Bergholtz and Jens Füchten-
BREEDING COMMITTEE schnieder. Four horses were evaluated,
The Breeding Committee met at Red with total scores ranging from 7.73 to 7.87.
Feather Icelandics, March 22-26, 2018, Two breeding horse and young horse
for a breeding seminar with Arnar Bjarki evaluations are scheduled for 2019. The
Sigurðarson. Reported Sherry Hoover, first will be held September 1-2 at the Co-
“The seminar focused on genetics, with a bleskill Fairgrounds in New York, and the
Ásta Covert and Dynjandi frá Dalvík in perfect brief history of breeding and heritability. second September 12-13, in conjunction
harmony. Ásta ranks first in the U.S. in T1, T2, We covered topics ranging from color, with a Sport Show at Harmony Icelandics
and V1. Photo by Will Covert. gaits, conformation, FEIF’s goal for in Iowa.
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 9
exam to be certified at Riding Badge Basic
Level 1. Keziah Dunn and Josie Nicholas
were certified at Basic Level 2.
Coralie Denmeade held the second
clinic at Tamangur Icelandics in Colorado
in December; Florie Miller was the exam-
iner. Sasha Mizrahi and Beth Sirles passed
Riding Badge Basic Level 1, Deb Kenny
passed Basic Level 2, Em Jacobs passed
Competition Level 1, and Zoe Johnson and
Pam Spooner passed Competition Level 2.
TOLT IN HARMONY
The first Tölt in Harmony Instructor
Certification clinic in the U.S. was held
by the Alaska Icelandic Horse Association
in June; the instructor and examiner was
Trausti Þór Guðmundsson. Janet Mulder
and Bernie Willis passed the exam and
In the 2018 USIHC National Ranking, Ayla Green is first in F1. Here she rides Stúdent frá were certified as TiH Level 1 instructors.
Ketilsstöðum at the Montaire Show. Photo by Alex Venable.
NEW SPORT JUDGE
BREEDING AWARDS RIDING BADGES The 5th USIHC Sport Judge Seminar was
The 2018 award for the highest evaluated Two Riding Badge clinics were organized held in April at Red Feather Icelandics in
domestic-bred breeding stallion, awarded by USIHC members in 2018. In August, Trout Lake, WA; the instructor and exam-
in honor of Anne Elwell, goes to Vindur Jessica Haynsworth taught a clinic at Mad iner was Þorgeir Guðlaugsson. Of the 15
from Dalalif (total score: 8.16). Vindur is River Valley Icelandic Horses in Vermont, attendees, eight took the exam, and one
owned, trained, and ridden by Lucy Nold. with Jana Meyer as the examiner. Arianna passed, with Lucy Nold achieving her US
(See the story in this issue.) DeForge and Cassidy Rosenhek passed the Sport B certification.
The 2018 award for the highest
evaluated domestic-bred breeding mare,
awarded in honor of Caryn Cantella, goes
to Kvika from Four Winds (8.16), owned
by Ron and Sherry Hoover and ridden
and trained by Terral Hill. (See the story
in Issue Three 2018.)
EDUCATION
Will Covert and Kari Pietsch-Wangard
presented the Education Committee’s
report, announcing the 2018 Riding Badge
certifications, Tölt in Harmony Instructor
certifications, Sport Judging certification,
and FEIF Trainer of the Year nominations
(see below).
“Our goal for 2019,” they said, “is to
define what is needed in the U.S. to provide
suppport for our Icelandic horse communi-
ty, either through instruction and/or train-
ing, and how to provide the best resources
for this support. This will include, but not
be limited to, development of a certified Kathy Love, riding Pegasus frá Skyggni, ranks first in the 2018 USIHC National Ranking in V2.
U.S. Riding Instructor/Trainer program.” Photo by Gigja Einarsdóttir.
10 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019FEIF TRAINER OF THE YEAR (“booths”) or breed demonstrations at
The Education Committee chose Alex trade shows and events around the coun-
Danennmann to be the USIHC nominee try. The total amount of funding for 2018
for 2017 FEIF Trainer of the Year; she was $750, with a limit of $150 per event.
subsequently won the award, which was an- Each club could receive funding for only
nounced in February at the FEIF Annual one event per year. This year five affiliated
Meeting in Stockholm. The USIHC’s nom- clubs received Policy 21 funding: Flugnir
inee for the 2018 award is Caeli Cavanagh. (for the Minnesota Horse Expo), Klet-
tafjalla (Colorado Horse Expo), NEIHC
LEISURE RIDING (Massachusetts Equine Affaire), Sirius
The Leisure Committee is sponsoring (Ohio Equine Affaire), and Toppur (Iowa
its second Sea 2 Shining Sea virtual ride, Horse Fair).
following a 9,900 mile circuit along the
Butterfield Overland Mail Route and the HORSES OF ICELAND
Pony Express Route from July 2018 to July The Promotion Committee also coordi-
2019. (See the article in Issue Three 2018.) nates the USIHC’s partnership with Horses
Seven teams and 13 individual riders are of Iceland, a strategic marketing plan
competing, totaling 47 riders in all. So far, developed by a variety of stakeholders in
together they have logged 3,629 hours of the Icelandic horse community. Its goal is
riding, translating into 14,526 miles. “to increase the awareness and strengthen
As of December 31, the Rocky Moun- the image of the Icelandic horse in inter-
tain High Tölters are in first place with national markets.” The USIHC’s financial
3,715 miles. Second is the Toppur Icelan- contribution goes toward supporting the
dic Horse Club (2,016 miles) and third is creation of educational and promotional
Hestafolk (1,747 miles). The top individu- content. Notes committee chair Emily
al rider is Raven Flores (1,700 miles). Potts, “Horses of Iceland has consistently
To help participants get to know each provided booklets, brochures, and videos
other, a Rider of the Month is randomly to many of our breed demonstrations and
chosen and interviewed for the S2SS Face- display spaces here in the United States. Maria Octavo ranks first in the 2018 USIHC
book page and the Quarterly. In addition, Their vision and values align with the USI- National Ranking in both T7 and F2. Photo by
Leisure Scouts are determined by the HC mission statement.” Jean Ervasti.
committee based on participation in the
NEW LOGO AND WEBSITE
Facebook page. Jeannene Heinrich, Sand- QUARTERLY COMMITTEE
“An ongoing project for the Promotion
ie Mortensen Weaver, Iris Heidberg, Raven Committee co-chair Nancy Marie Brown
Committee,” says chair Emily Potts, “has
Flores, Jeny Feldner, and Claudia Sihler summarized the Quarterly’s year with a fun
been a rebrand of the logo in preparation
have been declared Leisure Scouts. slideshow of photos created by co-chair
for a revamped website. The primary goal
Nicki Esdorn; it can now be seen on the
PROMOTION for the logo was to represent the spirit of
USIHC Facebook page.
“The Promotion Committee consists of the Icelandic horse with a timeless and
In 2018, Nancy reported, the 19 com-
an enthusiastic group looking forward to elegant aesthetic(see page 9). The logo will
mittee members and 45-55 contributors
working on many ideas for the future pro- be used digitally on the website and social
media, as well as in print on brochures and per issue (nearly 10% of USIHC house-
motion of Icelandic horses,” noted com-
clothing. holds) worked to provide the content and
mittee chair Emily Potts. “We are open to
“The website will also have a new look style that makes the Quarterly an effective
any ideas that individuals may have to help
and feel, such as an updated font, colors, face of the USIHC. Six hundred copies of
promote this great breed of horse. If you
and photos, but it will keep all of the same each issue were printed: 450 to 477 were
can spare a little time and feel you have
information and content. The layout is mailed to member households; the re-
some experience to add to our group, we
changing slightly to make information, pag- mainder were used to welcome new mem-
would greatly appreciate your help! Join us
es, and documents more easily accessible. bers and to promote the Icelandic horse at
by emailing promotion@icelandics.org.”
We strive to continue offering information the North West Horse Fair, Equine Affaire
DEMOS AND EXPOS and resources for both current members in Ohio and Massachusetts, the Minnesota
Under Policy 21, the USIHC Promotion and new Icelandic horse enthusiasts. Our Horse Expo, the Omaha International, the
Committee can provide matching funds to goal is to keep the user experience intuitive Midwest Horse Fair, the Iowa Horse Fair,
help affiliated clubs pay for display spaces and visually interesting.” and at private clinics.
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 11REGISTRAR’S REPORT Icelandic horses at selected sport events landics. She rides every day after school
In 2018, a total of 115 horses were all over the world with each other. For and is lucky to live across the street from
registered by the USIHC and recorded information on what events qualify, see the Pike National Forest trailhead. She is
in WorldFengur; 139 registrations were www.feif.org/Sport/WorldRanking.aspx excited to be able to ride other horses at
transferred to new owners. Of these, 55 USIHC members currently listed in Coralie’s and at the USIHC Youth camps,
were foals under 12 months old (com- the overall World Ranking are Kathryn to increase her experience and horse-
pared to 36 in 2017), 12 were domestic Love, Carrie Lyons Brandt, and Gabrielle manship skills. She aspires to be a horse
bred (compared to 25 in 2017), 37 were Pittman. Kathy is ranked number 34 in V2 chiropractor.
imported from Iceland (compared to 31 Four Gait (6.313). Carrie is number 194
AMERICAN YOUTH CUP
in 2017), 6 were imported from Canada in T1 Tölt (6.567), 237 in V1 Four Gait
(compared to 4 in 2017), and 5 were (6.387), and 202 in C4 Four Gait Combi- The 3rd North American Youth Cup will
imported from other countries (com- nation (6.477). Gabrielle is number 294 be held July 14-21, 2019, in the Pacific
pared to 2 in 2017). The total number of in T2 Tölt (5.710). Northwest (not in Vermont as original-
USIHC-registered horses in WorldFengur ly planned). The venue is Red Feather
YOUTH Icelandics, at the base of Mt. Adams in
as of December 31, 2018 was 6,102, of
which 3,311 are domestic bred. “It is our goal to make 2019 the Year for the Cascade Range. For the first time this
Youth,” reported incoming committee will truly be a North American event, as
SPORT COMPETITION chair Linda Templeton. The committee we have opened the Youth Cup to our
In 2018, a total of 13 USIHC-sanctioned will be asked to identify opportunities to friends in Canada. We hope to bring great
shows were held in the U.S.: two in Santa reach out to and engage with more young horses, great instructors, and a taste of
Ynez, CA; four in Shelbyville, KY (count- people. “We want to provide existing what the Northwest has to offer to these
ing the weekend of World Ranking com- Icelandic riders with more activities and participants. Applications must be in by
petitions as three separate events); and resources for learning, as well as reach- March 15, and results will be available by
one each in Claverack, NY; Tunbridge, ing more riders from other breeds and March 31. Applications can be found at:
VT; Santa Cruz, CA; Eagle, WI; Des introducing them to the joys of Icelandic https://redfeathericelandics.squarespace.
Moines, IA; Wasilla, AK; and Middleburg, riding. Today’s youth riders are tomor- com/application-materials
VA. Scores for each show can be found on row’s owners, trainers, ambassadors, and
SECRETARY’S REPORT
the USIHC website at www.icelandics.org/ USIHC members.”
showresults/. In January 2018, the USIHC had 655
FEIF YOUTH CUP members in 457 households. As of Janu-
The committee is currently organiz-
ing the USIHC team for the World Cham- The highlight of 2018 for the Youth ary 6, 2019, that number has grown to 683
pionships, to be held in Berlin, Germany Committee was the FEIF Youth Cup held members in 508 households, an increase
on August 4-11. For information, see www. in Sweden. This international Icelandic in households of over 10%. We need to
icelandics.org/competition/wc_team.php horse competition for riders aged 14 continue that positive trend by recruiting
to 17 is held on even-numbered years. and retaining new members.
NATIONAL RANKING In 2018, 15 countries participated. The
TREASURER’S REPORT
Will Covert, chair of the Sport Com- USIHC was proud to send four talented
mittee, announced the 2018 National young riders: Alicia Flanigan from Maine, As USIHC Treasurer Kari Pietsch-Wan-
Ranking at the USIHC Annual Meeting Eden Hendricks from California, Grace gard reported, our total 2018 income was
in Boston. The award winners are: Ásta Strausser from Pennsylvania, and Isabelle $44,348.08 and our total 2018 expenses
Covert for T1 (with a score of 7.60), T2 Maranda from Vermont. were $58,162.41. Compared to 2017, that
(7.00), and V1 (7.25); Olivia Rasmussen represents an overall increase in income
SPAERI YOUTH AWARD of 8.4% and an increase in expenses of
for T3 (6.15); Grace Strausser for T4
(5.50) and T6 (5.55); Kydee Sheetz for T5 The Spæri Award for 2018 goes to Zoe 4.2%. The increase in expenses was most-
(5.65) and V3 (6.00); Maria Octavo for Johnson for a well-written and researched ly related to the costs of developing a new
T7 (5.60) and F2 (5.25); Autumn Steiner article on “Horse and Human Sun logo and website.
for T8 (5.65); Kathryn Love for V2 (6.34); Protection.” The article will appear in As Kari explained, “The total in-
Orianna Bradley for V5 (5.85), Alicia the next issue of the Quarterly. Zoe is 15 come and expenses resulted in a loss of
Flanigan for V6 (5.77), and Ayla Green years old and has ridden Icelandics since $13,814.33. While it’s still a loss, that fig-
for F1 (6.60). she was six. She lives in Monument, CO ure is 7.3% smaller the prior year’s loss.
and cherishes her 10-year-old gelding, So we are headed in the right direction.”
WORLD RANKING Prins, whom she got as the “best birthday These loss numbers do not include the
FEIF’s World Ranking is a system to present ever” five years ago. Zoe trains return of the $5,000 deposit (from 2016)
compare results of riders of pure-bred with Coralie Denmeade at Tamangur Ice- for the Blood Profile project. As it is a
12 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019return of capital, it cannot be considered
“income,” but needs to be kept separate
to get a true picture of what our 2018
income and expenses were.
“In 2018 we began a new budget pro-
cess,” Kari explained. “We first identified
all of the income and expense items that
are necessary to run our basic organiza-
tion and to fulfill our commitments to
FEIF. Then we looked at what the various
committees requested in their budget
requests and decided how much we could
fund, based on how much of a loss we
were willing to take on for the year. As I
said at last year’s meeting, we can’t contin-
ue this level of deficit spending. The only
way we can continue to fund the various
committee programs over the long term
is by increasing our membership numbers
and/or dues.”
The 2019 budget meeting was sched-
uled for February 12; committees were
to submit their 2019 budget requests by
January 31.
BOARD MEETINGS
The USIHC board of directors met
by conference call on November 13, Zoe Johnson, age 15, won the 2018 Spaeri Youth Award for her well-researched article on “Horse
December 18, and January 10. Complete and Human Sun Protection.” It will appear in Issue Two 2018 of the Quarterly.
minutes, including the monthly Treasur-
er’s and Secretary’s reports, can be found the board at the November meeting. The Prior to the January meeting, Jessica
online at www.icelandics.org/bod/min- board referred the amendment to the Ed- Haynsworth and Kevin Draeger resigned
utes. USIHC members are encouraged ucation Committee to discuss and bring from the board. Their seats were filled by
to listen in on the board meetings. The back to the board for a final decision. former board members Linda Templeton
agenda and information on how to call The board unanimously approved an and Lori Cretney. The day of the meet-
in are posted on the USIHC website the amendment to Policy 9 concerning mem- ing Alex Dannenmann also resigned. At
weekend before. bership in USIHC committees, including the meeting, the board elected officers,
In addition to topics already report- who is eligible to join, members’ voting appointed committee chairs for 2019 (see
ed upon in this section, at the November privileges, how a committee member can
page 8 for the complete list), and final-
meeting Will Covert was removed as chair be removed by the chair, and for what
ized the agenda for the Annual Meeting.
of the USIHC Sport Committee, at his reasons. In general, any USIHC mem-
USIHC Policy 36, “Standard of Conduct
request, while he serves FEIF as deputy ber can join any committee, other than
(Ethics Code), was further amended by
chief judge for the World Championships. the Sport Committee, which has special
unanimous vote.
Ásta Covert was appointed interim chair. educational requirements. The amended
In executive session, the board
At the December meeting Sherry policy was tested on December 13, when
Hoover and Janet Mulder were appointed the board (by email) voted seven to one discussed the ramifications of Alex’s res-
to fill vacant seats on the board. Sherry to immediately accept all current mem- ignation and the previous legal action she
was asked to chair the Breeding Com- bers who had requested to be added to had brought to the board. In reference to
mittee and Janet was asked to chair the the Education Committee. her work on the U.S. Instructor Level 1
Leisure Committee. Finally, the board unanimously certification program, the board decided
An amendment was proposed to the approved an amendment to Policy 36, unanimously that the USIHC would not
U.S. Instructor Level 1 certification pro- “Standard of Conduct (Ethics Code), use any documents that Alex had copy-
gram, which had been presented by the USIHC Board of Directors Statement of righted and that her board seat would
Education Committee and approved by Expectations.” remain open for the near future.
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 13FEIF NEWS
Now on Instagram
FEIF’s new Instagram account was
launched in December 2018. Please share
your pictures and follow us on Instagram:
www.instagram.com/feiforg/
Young Leaders
The third FEIF Young Leaders seminar
was held in southern Iceland on No-
vember 9-11. The seminar, which had 23
participants between the ages of 18 and
26, focused on self-development, leader-
ship skills, and seeking solutions. Topics
included: How do I build a team? What
is the difference between teamwork and
partnership? How do I practice com-
munication at a higher level? The main
speakers were Anna Steinsen, a recre-
ational and social psychologist, and Karen way of working the best way, or should we Throughout 2019, as we commemorate
Woodrow, a Hólar-trained riding instruc- make changes? We discussed information the 50th birthday of FEIF, we want to share
tor who also holds a Masters in Project flow, the cost of operation, decision mak- memories of our beginnings in a Golden
Management. The program consisted of a ing, interconnection or communication Age, when anything seemed possible, as
mixture of lectures, icebreakers and other between departments and committees, the well as looking forward to the next 30 years,
social games, and role-playing exercises, size of our committees, and our relation- during which the young people of today will
and included a visit to the breeding farm ship with our member associations. Is FEIF become the leaders of tomorrow. Finally,
Grænholt. As always, a key goal was to appealing enough to new people to make FEIF Youth will run the video competition
foster new friendships and to strengthen them want to participate in our work? again in 2019. The challenge is for teen-
the bonds between young people from The conversation evolved into a agers to produce a short film on the topic
different countries and cultures. discussion of two questions: Why are we of “Blue” (details to follow). Who knows,
doing the work of FEIF, and how is FEIF maybe short videos are the appropriate way
Committee Meetings heading toward the future? These are for our current dreams to become a future
In contrast to the FEIF Conference every bigger topics than the more practical record of our shared history?
February, when delegates from each questions posed initially by the FEIF
member country come together to discuss Board, and the Board decided to make Sport Committees
developments in the Icelandic horse this matter a priority topic for discussion The Sport Committee and the Sport
world, the annual committee meetings during the 50-year anniversary conference Judges Committee held a joint meeting to
are much smaller. In 2018 these took in Berlin in February 2019. We need to be ensure that the latest developments were
place October 19-20 in Berlin. There, the able to answer these questions. It is vital discussed and that ideas were imple-
elected committee members of FEIF’s five for FEIF to constantly review our work, mented in the ideal way. In addition to
portfolios—Breeding, Education, Leisure to make sure we do not become stagnant reviewing the past season, many points
Riding, Sport, and Youth Work—met or distant from our members. The board for the future were discussed. Among
to review past events and discuss future relies on the input from all FEIF’s stake- these were the idea to allow the organizer
plans. Scheduling all committee meetings holders: riders, breeders, volunteers, and of a show to decide on the same starting
at the same time also makes it possible for the member associations. We urge you all order for the second run in P2, to make
two to work together on a joint project, to contact us with your ideas. adjustments to the timetable of P2, to
such as, for example, to plan an edu- allow alternative horse shoes in general,
cation seminar focusing on youth or to YOUTH WORK to allow a new five-gait test where the
discuss ways in which sport and breeding In Berlin, the FEIF Youth Work Committee rider can show pace on the pace track, to
rules can be further aligned. reviewed the 2018 Youth Cup in Sweden, allow B-finals for young riders at World
focusing on how to make it even better Championships, to alter the calculations
The future of FEIF in Denmark in 2020. The committee in finals, and more. These ideas will be
At the Berlin meeting, plenum sessions also wants to further strengthen the FEIF presented at the Sport Leader Meeting
were called for all committee members to Young Leaders seminars, which are now a and the Delegates Assembly in February
discuss the future of FEIF. Is our current permanent feature of our winter calendar. 2019, as appropriate.
14 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019Leisure Riding how to avoid stress in exams, etc. Further World Championships
With the help of the Education Commit- information will follow in due time. Tölt The selection of the Sport Jury for the
tee, the Riding Horse Profile was updated In Harmony and its further inclusion in 2019 World Championships in Berlin is
to use the same expressions as in sport the national systems was another point of complete. The following judges will form
and breeding, in order to make the evalu- discussion, and will be on the agenda of the jury: Ann Winter, Anna Andersén, Åsa
ation systems more compatible. The new the annual meeting. William, Fi Pugh, Frauke Walter, Henrik
profile will be published on the website Már Jónsson, Nicolai Thye, Ólafur Árna-
Breeding Committees
before the FEIF Conference in February son, Oliver Kubinger, Pia Andrésson, So-
The Breeding and Breeding Judges Com-
2019. Several new ideas were discussed phie Kovac, Stefan Hackauf, and Valdimar
mittees discussed new and better-defined
at our meeting in Berlin, including the Auðunsson. Þorvaldur Kristjánsson was
breeding goals for the Icelandic horse,
next steps to take with the video being selected as Chief Judge for the Breeding
together with a proposal for new guide-
produced in co-operation with Horses Show. Will Covert was appointed Deputy
lines for the judging of ridden abilities.
of Iceland (www.horsesoficeland.is). In Chief Judge.
The weighting factor for each trait will be
cooperation with the Youth Committee,
further discussed in 2019. A proposal to The Icehorse Festival
we discussed organizing a leisure riding
decide on the judging panel at all breed- If you happen to be traveling to Europe in
camp or seminar, modeled after the
ing shows in 2019, based on the decision April, don’t miss the Icehorse Festival. This
well-known FEIF Youth Camp, for adults
of the breeding leaders and judges, was four-day event, April 4-7, is an internation-
from different countries to get together
prepared for implementation during the al world-ranking competition for Icelandic
and share their passion for the Icelandic
next months. Þorvaldur Kristjánsson was horses on an 250-meter indoor oval track
horse. The committee is also developing
appointed chief judge for the Breeding at the fairgrounds in Herning, Denmark.
its visions and goals, as part of FEIF’s
Show during the 2019 World Champion- The festival features about 300 riders
focus on the future. Apart from these
ships, to be held in Berlin. Together with from all over Europe competing in Sport
projects, the group exchanged know-how
representatives of the show organizer and A and Sport B classes, as well as a festive
at national levels, e.g. regarding riding
other FEIF departments, the committees stallion show and interesting lectures.
routes and their possible presentation on
visited the world championship site, Plus, there will be a huge exhibition area
the FEIF website.
where many new structures have been where spectators can shop for the newest
Education built. At the same time as the committee equipment. The Icehorse Festival is held
The Education Committee prepared the meetings, a WorldFengur workshop with in collaboration with the Danish Icelandic
first seminar for FEIF examiners, to be more than 20 participants took place. The Horse Association. For more information,
held in November 2019 in Sweden. This workshop included practical work as well visit https://icehorsefestival.com/
seminar seeks to encourage international as discussions on EU topics, perspectives
cooperation and collaboration between from the national studbooks and the
international examiners for trainer exams GDPR consequences, and the planning of
at all levels. The seminar will include further lectures.
practical as well as theoretical parts, e.g.
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 15CLUB UPDATES
There are two Activity Clubs and 14 Regional
Clubs affiliated with the U.S. Icelandic Horse
Congress. To find the Regional Club nearest
you, see the USIHC website at www.icelandics.
org. Contact information for the Activity Clubs
can also be found there. The following clubs
filed updates on their activities this quarter.
GÆÐINGAR
By Kydee Sheetz
The Gæðingar Club is an activity club that
was founded to create a setting for Icelan-
dic horse breeders and those interested in
breeding to connect and learn from each Sleipnir Guild members Alex Venable, Laura Benson, and Grace Strausser share a victory lap at
the 2018 FIRC Open in Montaire, VA. Photo by Heidi Benson.
other.
Our main focus is to educate the mem-
bership and to bring breeders and clients vide by connecting with people at Icelandic ALASKA
together. We encourage our members to horse events around North America. By Jane Wehrheim
be involved in the USIHC and to support We look forward to meeting you online
We all truly enjoyed the extended fall season
their regional clubs as well. The Gæðingar as well as at various Sport, Breeding Evalua-
in Alaska this year as it gave us more riding
Club hopes you will visit our website, www. tion and educational events in 2019!
opportunities and ample time to prepare for
icebreeders.com, to become a member or
SLEIPNIR winter.
just visit! We have a comprehensive listing
By Caeli Cavanagh The back half of 2018 saw several events
of farms in the United States and Canada,
for the Alaska Icelandic Horse Association,
information on stallions, mares, and horses Sleipnir: The Icelandic Horse Trainer and
including a youth camp for Tölt Alaska and
for sale, and a calendar of events applicable Instructors Guild of North America was
to breeders and clients. a schooling show to prepare us for our main
founded as a USIHC-affiliated activity club
The Gæðingar Board is excited to event of the season, the AIHA Sanctioned
this year in order to create an association
be working on several concepts currently, Show with judge Peter Jökull Hákonarson.
of professional Icelandic horse trainers and
and we encourage breeders and potential instructors.
buyers to contact us with any recommenda- Activities which will fall under the goals
tions regarding these programs or anything of this association include defining industry
else that you would find helpful! An activity standards; creating educational opportu-
club is a new concept for the USIHC, and nities specific to the needs of trainers such
we would appreciate your input. We are
as conferences, lectures, and clinics; and
committed to encouraging and educating
providing networking opportunities. We
breeders, as well as efficiently connecting
also seek to create a sense of community
people looking to purchase an Icelandic
that can be difficult to form in our vast
horse with breeders who have quality horses
countries.
for sale.
This organization is comprised of
Our goals for 2019 are: To create an
trainers supporting trainers in developing
on-line system where buyers can input what
type of horse they are looking for and then our Icelandic horse economy. Our goal
receive information from breeders from is to stimulate the increase of quality and
around North America who have poten- standards in our marketplace in order to
tial matches. To develop an Education carry out the diverse functions required
Farm program where people interested in of our profession. We are very excited to
learning more about Icelandic horses can start working on these goals! We have three
visit to learn more about our special breed. membership types: active trainers, junior
To invent new ways to encourage regional trainers, and emeritus trainers. If you or
clubs, breeders, and owners to support someone you know is interested in learning Freyja from Alaska Ice Farm, one of the many
and participate in breeding evaluations. To more about our membership requirements, new youngsters this past year.
build awareness of what services we can pro- please contact caeli.cavanagh@gmail.com. Photo by Janet Mulder.
16 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019A complete list of riders and their scores can
be viewed on our website, alaskaicelandics.
org, along with a photo gallery. We had
wonderful weather and many generous
sponsorships. We all look forward to doing it
again next September!
As I write, we are busy finalizing dates
for clinics and events in 2019, including a
Tölt in Harmony Clinic by Trausti Guð-
mundsson over Memorial Day weekend.
Confirmed events are updated and posted
on both our website and our Facebook page.
FLUGNIR
By Jackie Alschuler & Eve Loftness
The Flugnir Icelandic Horse Club of
Minnesota and Wisconsin started off 2019
with our Annual Winter Warm Up party
in January. Board members provided the
main dishes for a potluck evening of fun
and fellowship here in the Bold North. At Flugnir member Ellen Parker and Mysla from Nordurstjarna.
the party, we welcomed our newest Board
member, Ellen Parker. Ellen is an avid the field. Seven Icelandic horse riders marked course across five to eight miles
trail rider with her black Icelandic mare, unloaded and looked forward to show- of varying farm field and manicured lawn
Mysla from Nordurstjarna, and she brings ing the crowd what their energetic little edges, woodland trails, and a couple of
a joyful spirit and a new perspective to horses could do. As usual, when a group connecting roads. Walking only next to
our board. As the September Rider of the of Icelandics are around, they attract a the roads and careful passing of other
Month in the Sea 2 Shining Sea virtual lot of attention and admiration for their riders was emphasized, but on the field
ride, Ellen was featured in the last issue of glorious looks and spirited energy. edges and in other open places, each
the Quarterly. “Karl Lieder, a cheerful leader of team of up to four riders could set its
On October 21, Ellen took part in the club (and easy to spot in his fire-red own quicker pace. The ideal time and
the Fall Hunter Pace hosted by the Long jacket), pointed us to the registration tent the exact distance of the course is kept
Lake Hounds Club, in Hamel, MN. She and made us feel very welcome. He and secret, with the goal being to have your
writes: “The day started out cool and the group running registration outlined team come as close to that ideal time as
sunny, as trucks and trailers pulled into the rules and goals: to follow the carefully possible.
Seven Flugnir Club members took part in a Hunter Pace. Eve Burch-Loftness, Jackie Alschuler, and Liz Stimmler finished in second place; Ann-Sofie
Kruger, Diane Hovey, Ellen Parker, and Kat Payne finished fourth.
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 17“Two teams of Icelandic riders reg-
istered in the lower experience class and
time, since only a couple of us had ever
done a Hunter Pace before. The course had
some challenges, but nothing our all-terrain
horses couldn’t handle with flying colors.
Most of us did pass alongside the scattered
jumps, but some of them could have been
jumped, with more practice. While the
occasional hunt-horse group did pass our
Icelandic teams, it was clear that our horses
kept the pace easily, and everyone enjoyed
the absolutely perfect weather of late
October.
“Both teams of Icelandic riders fin-
ished the course and placed with a ribbon.
Team 1 was Eve Burch-Loftness, Jackie Al-
schuler, and Liz Stimmler, who finished in
second place; Team 2 was Ann-Sofie Kruger, Laura Benson on Lykill frá Stóra-Ási and Ebba Mehan on Sigurlín frá Hús compete in the USI-
Diane Hovey, Ellen Parker ,and Kat Payne, HC-sanctioned show held by the Frida Club at Montaire Icelandic Horses in Middleburg, VA in
who finished in fourth place. Everyone October. Photo by Valerie Durbon.
came away knowing that this was a special
event that they would likely attend again Frida delicious food, homebaked goodies, a silent
and would recommend to others. The By Marilyn Tully & Alex Pregitzer auction, and a 50-50 raffle. Following lunch,
speed and navigation on the course offered Pat Carballo presented a slideshow of mem-
a fun challenge to enjoy with friends and The Frida Icelandic Riding Club of the
bers’ horses. and members had to name
an inspiring way to show off our beautiful Mid-Atlantic Region closed 2018 with much the horses, the horses’ owners, and indicate
horses.” merriment in the air as our members gath- whether the horse was mare, gelding, or stal-
Flugnir will once again attend the ered for our annual potluck Holiday Party lion. One point for each correct answer. It
annual Minnesota Horse Expo, which on December 8 at the home of Pat and Jim was fun and an excellent way to get to know
takes place this year on April 26-28 at the Carballo in Columbia, MD, an ideal meeting each other’s horses.
Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The Icelandic place midway between the members trav- All told, 2018 was a great year for the
horse drill team presentation is always a fan eling from Pennsylvania and those coming Frida Icelandic Riding Club. Thirty-four new
favorite and a highlight at the Expo. The from Virginia and points south. There was members joined and an energetic schedule
Expo is a wonderful time for old friends to of events rolled out all year long.
get together, to meet new friends, and to Members gathered for trail rides at
introduce the general public to our special beautiful national and regional parks across
breed. It is also the unofficial kick-off to our the greater Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsyl-
trail riding season, and we all look forward vania area. In the fall, riders saddled up at
to getting out in nature in the warmer the Fair Hill Natural Resources Management
weather. Area in Maryland on October 13. Fair Hill
Flugnir will host two USIHC-sanc-
is a 5,000-acre maze of wooded trails, open
tioned Icelandic competitions in 2019: The
meadows, covered bridges, and creek cross-
Flurnirgæðinga Show June 8-9 and the
ings. On October 21, members got together
Flugnirkeppni on August 24-25. Both shows
for a trail ride at Bucklodge Forest Conserva-
will take place at beautiful Tolthaven Farm
tion Park, which covers 215 acres of forested
in Pelican Rapids, MN. This will be the first
woodlands along the Bucklodge Branch
time that Tolthaven hosts a USIHC-sanc-
stream valley in Montgomery County, MD.
tioned show, and we welcome members of
The club’s annual USIHC-sanctioned
the Icelandic horse community to come
competition show was held on October 27-28
join the fun.
Heidi Benson and Strokkur frá Syðri- at Montaire in Middleburg, VA, the home of
For more information on Flugnir activi-
Gegnishólum cantering to victory in F1. Antje Freygang and husband Mike Padgett.
ties, please visit our website, www.flugnir.org.
Photo by Valerie Durbon. When Antje and Mike purchased
18 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019Patricia Carballo on Dahla from Norris Farm
and Carrie Laurencot on Gnótt frá Holtsmúla
1 showing off in the ribbon class at the Mon- FIRC1 The V2 finalists: Laura Benson, Carrie Brandt, Ebba Meehan, Alex Venable, and Mackenzie
taire Show. Photo by Valerie Durbon. Durbin. Photo by Valerie Durbon.
Montaire, they had a vision of sharing some Icelandic weather to really set the vorite family horses competed side by side
their beautiful facility with other Icelandic mood for the show. and were so much fun to watch. The club
horse enthusiasts. Montaire is a welcom- There were individual classes and made sure to offer a variety of fun classes,
ing place, as well as the perfect facility for group classes suitable for all levels of riders such as the extremely popular costume
Icelandic horse competitions, clinics, and and horses, with the aim to accommodate class, which showcased creative costumes
other educational opportunities. Mon- beginner riders, novice riders, and green with whole groups of adorable Wizard of
taire features a regulation-size 250-meter horses, as well as intermediate and ad- Oz characters, strong Vikings, powerful
oval track, an airy 20 x 40 meter covered stallion hot dogs, dragons, and butterfly
vanced riders. Sunday started with the Tölt
arena, as well as access to trails, a separate princesses, to mention just a few. Other
T4 finals. Colorful stallions (some freshly
barn for guest horses, and a large number popular fun classes included the Lead
imported from Iceland) and longtime fa-
of paddocks and green pastures. Line class and, of course, the Beer Tölt!
A pre-show clinic on Thursday and Those watching got to see some
Friday was led by Guðmar Pétursson for great performances in all of the classes.
riders planning to compete in the sanc- Here are some of the highlights: Sun-
tioned show. The classes started Saturday day’s winner of the F1 Individual Five
morning with FEIF International Sports Gait class, with a total score of 6.29, was
Judge Andre Böhme, as well as scribes the California team of Heidi Benson and
Susan Moore and David Badtke, announc- Strokkur frá Syðri-Gegnishólum. The
er Florian Schneider, Alexandra Dannen- finals in V1 Individual Four Gait were a
mann managing Icetest, and Amy God- tight race between Alexandra Venable on
dard playing the right beats to get us into Veigar frá Lækjamóti, with a final score
the swing of things. What a great team to of 6.50, and Laura Benson on Geysir frá
have for the show! Competitors, visitors, Kvistum, with a total score of 6.40. The
and friends came from across the United Tölt T1 final at the end of the day was
States and Canada, and even from as far won by show host Antje Freygang and
away as Iceland and Germany. We were Vaskur frá Kagaðarhóti with a total score
especially happy to see a large number of 6.00. All show results can be found on
of wonderful American-bred horses, who the USIHC website at www.icelandics.
showed off our promising breeding here org/showresults/.
in the United States. The Icelandic god Marilyn Tully managed the ribbons. Photo by At the end of the show, Antje
Thor also played his role well, providing Valerie Durbon. sponsored a Harmonious Rider award,
issue one 2019 • Icelandic HORSE Quarterly 19Glitfaxa
By Gabriele Meyer
I am sure you have heard the saying, “You
can lead a horse to water, but you can’t
make it drink.” Well, this might not be en-
tirely true. Glitfaxa member Lisa Herbert
actually can make her horses drink!
Teresa Halperin’s mare Skugga, on
the other hand, can give her rider a help-
ing “hand” by picking up a dropped whip
with her lips and turning her head to give
it back to the rider.
These two unusual examples of
trained horse behavior inspired me
to dedicate this report on the Glitfaxa
Icelandic Horse Club, which represents
the Greater Bay Area of California (in-
cluding San Francisco East and North
Bay, Sacramento, and the foothills), to a
topic that could be called “cool tricks our
horses can do.” But let me start from the
beginning.
A few months ago, Teresa Halperin
had invited me for a trail ride with her
The Montaire show’s host, Antje Freygang, placed first in the V3 finals with Galdur frá Reykjavík. two mares Solarljós and Sól Skugga.
Photo by Valerie Durbon. During a break, I tried to take a few pic-
tures of us and accidentally dropped my
which was given at the judge’s discretion and coordinator. He and the full cadre whip. Teresa stopped me from jumping
to the rider who showed exceptional of volunteers put together an impressive off the horse and advised me to hold
harmony between horse and rider. The premier show at Montaire. It takes a village the reins loose and on the buckle. Then
award went to Laura Benson on Geysir frá to support an event of this magnitude, and she pointed with her finger to the whip
Kvistum. the club couldn’t have done it without and said, “Skugga, get it!” To my utter
Did we say hot dogs? Nobody had to the help and support of its members. The astonishment, Skugga lowered her head,
go hungry. Gourmet food trucks provided club thanks our team of professionals picked up the whip with her teeth, and
delicious crepes and different ethnic food and our volunteers, Marilyn Tully, Millie turned her head around so that I could
choices to make sure we all made it to Angelino, NikkiSue and Lee Flanigan, take it out of her mouth. Problem solved,
another home-cooked gourmet evening Alicia Flanigan, Carrie Laurencot, Kathryn
meal, generously prepared and sponsored Brockhouse, Marjorie Lewis, Charlotte
by Mike Padgett. Reilly, Leslie Chambers, Antonio Ortiz,
While the horses were munching Nicole Kempf, Maryls Shoup, Amanda
on their grass and hay, enjoying a well- Malone, and Kelly Smith. The club
deserved break from the competition, the volunteers were joined by Jennifer,
riders, friends, and volunteers gathered Catherine, Antonio, Hunter, and Buck,
in a decorated tent for a silent auction, who provided hospitality and outstanding
homemade chili, music, drinks, and, last facility support. Thank you also to Valerie
but not least, some dance moves to stay Durbon Photography for shooting
limber for the next morning. Thanks to fantastic photos throughout the show for
artist Sandy Newkirk for donating her the Montaire Gallery.
beautiful oil painting, “Icelandic Spring,” Finally, the show would not have
for the raffle. The happy winner was club been a success without the support of
member Marilyn Tully. the competitors! The club is grateful that Glitfaxa member Teresa Halperin taught Sól
Thanks so very much to Curtis Pierce participants traveled so far to show us their Skugga a useful trick: to pick up a dropped
for his long hours serving as show secretary beautiful and talented Icelandic horses. whip. Photo by Laurel Edgecomb.
20 Icelandic HORSE Quarterly • issue one 2019You can also read
