- Cowboy crafts
- The Paso Fino
- Coaching tips
- Holiday adventures
- Western saddle - rider fit
- Improve your seat
- Getting the Halter class right

Editor's welcome to January's FreeRein

It feels like the American horse industry is at the brink of a sea change in the UK. After three busy days manning the FreeRein stand at Your Horse Live in November, I am now convinced of the hundreds of English-style equestrians harbouring a longing to give western a try. The number of enquiries received on how to get involved were staggering and I hope that this interest will translate to a boost in our western equestrian economy.

It is exactly this expectation that the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) hopes to fulfil by its proposal for western associations to unite through its western member body, British Reining. It is promising western a voice at the highest level, as equal to British Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. However, debate on the online westernshop.com forum has highlighted that not everyone is convinced. Turn to page 27 to learn more about the proposal.

One initiative that can’t be ignored is the UK Coaching Certificate, which is set to have an industry-wide impact. FreeRein’s new Coaching Corner (page 29) will provide regular insights into coaching technique - useful for aspiring coaches and students alike.

You may have noticed the FreeRein slogan has changed to the ‘UK’s American Horse Magazine’. In order to encompass the increasing popularity in American gaited horses and other USA breeds, FreeRein will feature regular breed profiles. Turn to pages 24-25 for the Paso Fino, a smooth moving creature developed by settlers in the South Americas.

Perhaps my favourite feature is Kevon Trusselle’s account of the Traditional Cowboy Art Association’s exhibition and sale held in Oklahoma. See pages 20-21 for some stunning pieces of working art.

For those of you gearing up for the approaching show season you won’t go far wrong in the halter class with tips from champion producer David Deptford (pages 44-45). If it is your performance you are seeking to improve, Donna Snyder-Smith’s column on seat biomechanics will prove equally useful (pages 40-41).

Finally, if you are planning your holidays then it is worth reading about Linzi Hill’s dramatic experience of the Bar 10 Ranch (pages 30-31) or the laid back luxury of the Echo Valley Ranch and Spa (page 46).

Best wishes for the new year,

Tally Wade
Editor/Publisher
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