The Equestrian Blog

Be warned – Horsetail, Mares Tail or Scouring Rush

Just a quick question... As horse owners we're mostly all familiar with the battle against ragwort and how it has spread into every field, central reservation and grass verge in the country, but how many of us know anything about mares tail?

Horse or Mares Tail, (scientific name Equisetum Palustre), is toxic to horses and should in my opinion be equestrian enemy number one. It looks like it belongs in Jurassic Park and spreads like wildfire. From a few small patches last year my paddock is now covered in it and it looks as if it's spreading fast and here to stay.

I've been researching this plant and what I've discovered doesn't make for pleasant reading.. more at Mares Tail - Toxic To Horses

Best of British at Royal Windsor

Posted by idex7 | Filed under Dressage Riding, Equestrian News

royal-windsor1 The 2009 Royal Windsor Horse Show, 13-17 May, is to showcase the best of British top and up-and-coming equestrian talent with two new dressage competitions, sponsored by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) World Class Programme.

Two special competitions; The Prix St George for up and coming horses and the Grand Prix Kür, both sponsored by The World Class Programme, will take place on the opening day of the show. Entry is by invitation of the World Class Programme only.

Eight competitors enrolled on the WCP will be chosen to compete in each class in front of the country’s top judges and selectors. They will be chosen from all three WCP levels, performance, development and equine pathway, allowing potential British stars of the future to mix with current top riders.

WCP director Will Connell said:

This is a fantastic opportunity. The riders will have the chance to compete at one of the most prestigious outdoor shows in the country, the show’s organising committee can show what a great Europeans we have to look forward to and the public will be able to see some fantastic dressage.

For more info and to buy tickets, please visit the Royal Windsor Show Website.