Membership Stuff

(Picture- our filly Twister day 12 at the trainers!)

I just got the forms from WCRA regarding requirements to be a Chapter.

1. A list of our executives plus contact info:

President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Chapter Director-WCRA 

2. A list of all of the club's activities eg.

Clinics, Lessons, Competitions, Social Events, Meetings, Member Rides

3. Description of all fund raising activities

4. Highest bank balance expected in current year

5. A current WCRA membership list

Chapters require a minimum of 5 WCRA members in good standing. All chapter members must be WCRA and HCBC members. WCRA Chapters act as Standing Committees of WCRA. To meet the requirements of the Societies Act and the insurance policy conditions, Chapters must conduct themselves according to WCRA Rules and Regulations at all times and all business and/or activities of the Chapters must be approved by WCRA. All memberships are due for renewal January 1st of each year.

I will bring all the paperwork on Friday night and hopefully, people will sign up and get forms filled in and sent off right away!

Reining Show Manners

(Picture- Trainers, Lynda Smyth and Sherri Thomson, with AQHA Genuine Jeepers)

One of the most intimidating experiences for someone new to reining, is to go to a show for the first time, and have no idea of what the basic "Rules" are. The following information was taken from Reining Trainer Lynda Smyth's website "forum page. Lynda is a professional reining trainer in Maple Ridge and long time WCRA member. If you are looking for some good solid information on reining and training reining horses, check out Lynda's forums at http://www.manestreamreining.com/forums/index.php?act=idx

Reiner Ring Rules

The reining warm up pen can be tough for both beginners and experienced reiners. Here's some basic rules to follow, to help you survive the warm up pen.

Courtesy and awareness must prevail, so that everyone gets their fair chance to safely warm up their horses. I believe it's up to coaches and trainers to teach their students the proper warm up ring rules, long before show day. 

Just before I get into the ring rules, I'd like to remind everyone that the "warm up" is just that...a warm up. It's a chance to get horses' muscles moving, a chance to let your horse feel the ground, a chance to see the surroundings and a chance for the rider to find her bearings (center and so on).  

Paid warm ups are chunks of time that you can purchase in the main arena to be alone. These "mock" sessions are the reiner's best friend when it comes to schooling in a show environment.

THE RULES

1. Heads Up!! Be aware of everything that is happening around you or else you will literally run in to trouble!

2. Always run your circles towards the judges chair.Do not lope around the perimeter of the arena or in the opposite direction of the flow.

3. Spin during the circling phase, inside the circles that are being run

4. ABSOLUTELY no spinning at the center mark!

5. Avoid stopping at the center mark. Many other riders are trying to hit this spot, keep it clear!

6. Heads up during lead changes or counter canter changes of direction.

7. DO NOT suddenly stop or back up without checking behind you first.

8. Rest your horse in the corners of the arena, walk to perimeter to cool out.

9. Socialize with friends in the corners of the arena.

10. The fencing phase starts about half way through an allotted warm up time,

11. DO NOT lope circles when people are fencing

12. DO NOT fence your horse when people are loping circles.

If you happen to enter the warm up pen and all the rest of the horses are fencing, do not start loping circles. This would be very rude and dangerous. Wait until the fencing is done and then join in the circling. 

The same is true during the circling phase, don't start fencing until the rest of the crowd is ready. Parking your horse against a wall, in rundown preparation, is usually sufficient hint to the rest of the riders that fencing is about to begin.

Lack of knowledge in the warm up pen can cause huge frustration for people who are trying to get their warm up done. If someone is new to reining, and obviously doesn't know the warm up rules, politely explain them! 

 

What equipment do I need to be a Reiner

(Picture-A big sliding plate!)

Reining at the beginner level is pretty informal as far as attire and equipment is concerned. A western saddle, and western riding attire is the general standard. You can have "bling" on your horse and equipment, and it may add to your overall appearance, but you are not judged on it specifically. One must pay a bit of attention to the bit you choose to use. Riders are asked to remove their bridle at the end of the run to have their bit checked. If you are riding in aWCRA modified class,  you may  use any legal bit, and ride 2 handed. These classes are designed for beginner riders and/or horses, hence the more open ended policy around bits. For more specific rules around this check the WCRA website. (http://www.wcra.info) Most people that are reining have their horse fitted with sliding plates. This allows for the spectacular "slides" which are the signature maneuvers of the reining horse. They are not required, and in fact not necessary until your horse is able to get under himself when asked to "Whoa". Working with a trainer is the best way to teach your horse this skill, and your trainer is best to advise you as to when it would be a good idea to get sliders put on your horse. Once your horse has sliders on, you must consider where he is going to be housed! Sliders typically extend beyond the back of the back feet, and they are slippery! If the horse is on uneven terrain, or turned out in a large field or pasture, it is potentially dangerous for him, and your sliders will not last very long! Another issue in our area is finding a farrier with the knowledge and skill to put sliders on correctly. The nail heads must be rasped off (or you have a rough surface) and often reiners like to "roll the toe", which the farrier must know how to do properly. Ron Burfoot has been our farrier for years, and has put sliders on our horse for us. He is hard to get, but maybe if we had him booked for a day to come to town and do a bunch of horses, he might accommodate us! Especially if we could convince him to join our club!! 

I'm certainly not an expert on any of this, so please feel free to add comments to this post in regards to anything I may have said here that is incorrect, or that you would like comment further on!

1st annual 100 Mile House Horse Bazaar

(Picture- from facing right-Amanda Self, Sherri Thomson, Casandra Jakubiec, Carla Webb, WCRA freestyle)

Mark your calendars for March 28-29, for the first annual 100 Mile Horse Bazaar.

Saturday 10:00-5:00

Display Booths

New and Used Tack for sale

Horses for sale preview and showcase

Stallion Showcase

Silent Auction

Sunday 10:00-4:00

Display Booths

Demos featuring Canadian Reining Team Member, Amanda Self 

Also demos in: Cutting, Horse Chiropractic, Packing, Driving, Cariboo Cowgirls and more!!

Entry by donation-proceeds go to upgrades to 100 Mile Agriplex Facility

More information or for entry forms, contact Randy at 395-5175

Friday Night Rides in 100 Mile

(Picture- Casandra and Jewel sliding stop Chilliwack Heritage Center 2006)

We now have access to the 100 Mile Agriplex on Friday nights to come out and ride and socialize a bit, so saddle up your fuzzy bronc, and come join us for our first meet and greet, Friday, February 27. At this point, you just need 10.00 to ride for the evening, and your BC Horse Council Number, and we will have membership applications available for our 100 Mile Slider group as well as membership and declaration forms for WCRA. We will be there as early as 6:00, and can ride as long as we like into the evening. 

So How Is Reining Scored?

(Picture- Casandra and Sherri as John Travolta and Olivia Newton John in WCRA Freestyle competition)

The horse and rider team begin with a score of 70, with a theoretical range of scores considered to be from 60 (if there are no penalties or disqualifications) to 80 (a near impossible perfect pattern). Points are added or subtracted by 1/2, 1, and -1/2, -1 point increments for each of the 7 to 8 maneuvers in the designated pattern. Each part of the pattern is judged on precision, smoothness, controlled speed, authority or aggressiveness, while maintaining willingness, the higher the maneuver score.

A score of 70 is considered an average score for a horse that made no errors but also did not perform with exceptional ability. ( Just as a point of reference, a beginning reiner with an average horse capable of performing all required maneuvers at an average level of ability should expect scores in the low to mid 60's as scored by an NRHA judge at a typical WCRA show....) A score below 70 reflects deductions for incorrectly performed movements or misbehavior of the horse. A score above 70 reflects that some or all movements were above average. The more resistance or unwilling the horse appears during a maneuver, or the more maneuvers that lack finesse and smoothness, the lower the maneuver score.

Certain misbehaviors may incur additional penalties beyond a minus score for a given maneuver. Significant errors, such as an overspin (more than one quarter of a turn), will result in a "zero" score, which usually eliminates the competitor from the class. (some exceptions are made at small shows) Major errors such as going off pattern result in disqualification sometimes called a "no score" which prevents the horse from earning any awards even if he is the only horse in the class.

Reining maneuvers include large fast circles, small slow circles, 360 degree spins on the spot both left and right, rollbacks, flying lead changes, back up, and the signature reining move of sliding stops. 

Judges can choose from any 1 of 10 established NRHA patterns for any given class. Patterns are posted before the class for riders. As well, for those competitors just getting into reining ,the WCRA has adopted 4 modified patterns  that remove some of the more challenging maneuvers such as flying lead changes, with the goal of making it easier  for the beginner to gain some show ring experience. Some modified patterns will also allow riders to ride 2 handed. You can view the 10 NRHA patterns as well as the modified patterns on the WCRA website http://www.wcra.info under Membership and Rulebooks

So What is Reining??

(Picture-Trainer and WCRA Open Competitor, Sherri Thomson, and her AQHA Gelding, "Topper")

Reining is designed to highlight the athletic ability of the "Ranch type" horse in the confines of the show arena. Contrary to the seemingly relaxed attitude of the horse and rider, and the loose reins typical of the discipline, reining is a high level competition sport requiring concentration, athletic prowess, control and speed. As is stated in the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA)  Handbook, "to rein a horse is to not only guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined horse should be willingly guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance and dictated to completely. Any movement on his own must be considered a lack of control. All deviations from the exact written pattern must be considered a lack or temporary loss of control and therefore a fault must be marked down according to the severity of the deviation. After deducting all faults against the execution of the pattern and the horses overall performance, credit shall be given for smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness and authority of performing various maneuvers while using controlled speed which raises the difficulty level, and makes the run more exciting and pleasing to watch to an audience." 

Reining has become the most recent discipline to be recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI). International reining competitions are now being held for both team and individual competitors world wide. Reining was included as a medal discipline for the first time at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain. At the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games, the Canadian reining team earned the silver medal for the team competition, and Duane Latimer took the individual gold for Canada. In 2008, former Williams Lake reiner, (currently from Kamloops, BC) Amanda Self, was named to the Canadian Reining team and competed at the World games in Italy! Amanda is a long standing member of the WCRA and you are sure to see her at the WCRA shows competing in reining and working cow, at the open level with her gorgeous APHA gelding, "Marv", along with numerous client horses!

 While reining is recognized by the FEI and performed at the World Equestrian Games, it is not yet recognized as an Olympic Sport.    

For more information on the sport of reining, visit the National Reining Horse Association Website at http://www.nrha.com

On becoming a member

  (Picture-Youth reiner, and Sherri Thomson client, Kerry Dyson, and "Murphy". "Pink Panther" freestyle at "Silde Out West, Sept 2008)

Here is some basic membership information.

Costs:

100 Mile Sliders

Youth 15.00

Individual 20.00

Family 30.00

You can e mail me (isabella.macquarrie@sd27.bc.ca) for an application form (Will hopefully have a link posted here soon!), or leave a comment here and I will send one to you by mail or electronically.

As well you need to be a member of the WCRA

Membership forms are available on their website (http://www.wcra.info) Also you need to fill in you "High Point Show Declaration of Status" form. This form basically states at what level you are eligible to compete, and is also available on the WCRA website

Youth 15.00

WCRA Individual 40.00

WCRA Family 60.00

WCRA Associate Membership 20.00

WCRA lifetime Membership 250.00

As well, you also need Horse Council membership. 

What's Happening? Lets Go!

 (Picture-Casandra Jakubiec -(my daughter!) and PR Impressive Jewels (born and bred right here in the Cariboo-Painted Rose Ranch-Thanks Ron and Ceci!) Kamloops, 2007 NRHA beginner winner)

Here is a list of the 2009 Shows on the High Point Series for the WCRA. You get points for each show you attend, and place in WCRA classes. The points add up for year end awards at the annual banquet, held each fall. WCRA provides awesome prizes for shows and for high point winners.

May 8-10, 2009

Peninsula Rockslide

Saanichton, BC

This show is the long standing first show on the WCRA circuit, and the island club always puts on a great show! A full slate of WCRA classes, as well as open, non pro, and youth classes, and NRHA approved, with an NRHA judge. The main issue for some of us folk up here, is the cost of travel to the island. Hopefully, once we are up and running, we can cut costs to this show by buddying up with trucks and trailers as well as accommodation costs. You can get more info on this show at  http://www.peninsulareiningclub.com

June 12-14, 2009

Riverslide

Kamloops, BC

This show will be part of the high point series. More information will be forthcoming, and I will post info here as soon as it is available. You can also check the WCRA website for updated information

July 17-19, 2009

WCRA West Coast Classic

Heritage Park, Chilliwack

This is one of the ""big" shows held at the fabulous Heritage Park in Chilliwack. A sanctioned NRHA show, 2009 Adequan North American Affiliate Champonship Program, that often attracts the "big guys" from Alberta, BC and the States. If you want to learn more about reining, its a good one to go and watch! Also, a full slate of WCRA classes

Sept 11-13, 2009

Slide Out West

Heritage Park, Chilliwack

Another great show at Heritage park, hosted by our lower mainland chapter, and the last of the high point series. Most of the horses and riders are at the peak of their game, and working to get their last chance at chasing points for the high point awards. 

Here are some other reining shows and clinics to consider that are not part of the WCRA high point series, but great opportunities to get out and compete and learn. 

March 21-22, 2009

Carl Woods Reining Clinic

Easy Go Ranch, Lac La Hache 

1-888-600-7556

Carl is a professional reining and working cow horse trainer. He will be conducting 1 hour private lessons for the low cost of 40.00/hour!

May 23rd 2009

Sherri Thomson Training 

Introduction to Reining and Horsemanship Clinic

100 Mile Agriplex

Sherri has offered to conduct a series of reining/horsemanship clinics right here in 100 Mile! Sherri is a reining and working cow horse trainer who shows throughout BC in Open Reining and Working Cow Horse. She has conducted numerous clinics and is known for getting the best out of each individual  horse and rider. You will see Sherri featured throughout this blog, as she has been our long time trainer and good friend. Sherri has just been nominated for a lifetime achievement award through ProMotion Plus, for the work she has done mentoring young girls, and training horses (and people) in the sport of reining! Cost of the clinic for a full day of riding with Sherri is 125.00/person

April 3-5 

Amanda Self Reining Clinic

Brantdt Ranch, Pritchard

Amanda is an accomplished reining trainer and rider, most recently named to the Canadian Reining team that competed at the World Equestrian Games in Italy in 2008. Her easy going manner, and great sense of humor make her a great clinician. This clinic is the last in a series of clinics Amanda has offered at the Brandt Ranch this winter. Watch Amanda's reining demo at the 100 Mile Bazaar, March 29, 2009. Amanda is a long time WCRA member and former William's Laker!

April 18, 2009 ** Note this is an updated date change (was previously April 26th)

FVRC Schooling Show

2652,  216th St

Langley, BC

Judge-Lynda Smith

This is a great opportunity to come out and show in a low stress environment. No pre entry required. Just come out and pay 15.00 per class entry You can view the lower mainland WCRA chapter's webite at http://www.fvrc.ca

Sun Reiners

Our North Okanagan/Shuswap Chapter will host a number of schooling shows as well as their third annual "Reining in the Sun" show http://www.reinininthesun.com this year:

May 2 2009

Sun Reiners Schooling Show

Armstrong Agriplex 

Another opportunity to get a chance to get in the show ring in a low stress environment, and a great warm-up for the Island show the following weekend. I will post more info here as it becomes available, but watch the WCRA site as well! They also have a page update in Saddle Up magazine. 

May 1-3

Prince George Reining Horse Association

Spring Slide Reining Show

http://www.pgrha.tripod.com

Held at the fair grounds in PG this NRHA approved show always attracts a lot of the big guys from across western Canada!

June 18th-20

Prince George Reining Horse Association

Ride N' Slide

Another big show hosted by our northern cousins. Often well attended by locals as well as the out of province "big guys"!

July 30-August 1, 2009

Reinin' in the Sun 

http://www.reinininthesun.com

Armstrong Agriplex

This show has seen huge growth in the 2 years of its existence, with a total of 403 runs last year, and a full slate of open, non pro, and beginner classes, in reining and working cow. The show organizers emphasize a fun atmosphere, with great food, relaxed atmosphere and lots of sun!

August 7-9th

Prince George Reining Horse Association

Fall Slide

The last of the "big three" reining shows hosted by the Prince George Reining Club.

Please post comments if you know of other shows going on, or would like to hook up with someone going to these shows to cut costs and travel together!

WELCOME!!

(Picture- Me! (Isabella, and my coming 2 year old filly, "Twister" who has just started her training with reining trainer, Sherri Thomson)

Welcome to the 100 Mile Sliders Reining Club!! We are the newest chapter of the Western Canadian Reining Association.  http://www.wcra.info/ In order to join our club, you must be members of WCRA, as well as Horse Council BC. I hope to use this blog to keep members informed of what we are doing and what else in going on in the reining world around the province and internationally. Please feel free to join in and dialogue on this site, as we embark on an exciting journey together.