Fox trotting Trail Riders Of Tennessee

Welcoming The New Year, 2012!

2012-01-18T14:26:00.007-06:00

What will 2012 hold for FoxTROT? The continued growth of FoxTROT's membership? Greater participation in the FoxTROT National Trail Rides? More FoxTROT members getting together more often for local/regional trail rides? FoxTROT members joining the ACTHA and competing in the CTCs? Maybe even an entourage of FoxTROT members traveling to Ava, Missouri for the MFTHBA International Show and Celebration? Whatever 2012 holds, we're hoping that you'll be a part of it!

If you haven't already done so, it's time to renew your FoxTROT Membership for 2012! E-mail notes have now been sent out twice with the 2012 Membership Application attached. Renewals have begun to arrive in my mail box from Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Arkansas! Be sure to contact me if you have lost track of your notice, so I can get one to you. As always, we ask you to spread the word about FoxTROT. Word of mouth is the best way we've found to grow our membership. If you know of others in or around Tennessee who trail ride MFTs, invite them to join FoxTROT. Give them my contact info or send me a note with theirs. Let's do our best to be more involved ourselves and get others involved!

Make plans to attend all three National Trail Rides! As a member of FoxTROT and the MFTHBA, when you complete 10 National Trail Rides on a registered MFT you'll be awarded one of the beautiful Montana Silversmith buckles as pictured above from the MFTHBA! Additional prizes are available for 20, 30, 40 NTRs! So, in addition to the great fellowship of FoxTROT members around camp and on the trail, you can be marking off your NTRs until you are eligible to be recognized and receive your buckle!

With winter being dead upon us, many are not able to ride as often as they'd like. However, if there's a sunny day in the 40s and the winds are not too high, you can expect to see us "die hards" (You know who you/we are) headed for a trail head! Anytime you see a nice day in the forecast, be sure to contact one of us in your region as listed above, it's sure that someone will be ready to ride with you!

Missouri Fox Trotters performed extremely well in last year's ACTHA America's Favorite Trail Horse Challenge with 2 of the 10 finalists being MFTs! Let's do our part to introduce our MFTS to the ACTHA CTCs in Tennessee this year! To date there are 3 ACTHA CTCs scheduled in Tennessee. Notice that there they are located in/near places many of us already ride. We've talked about becoming active in the ACTHA in years past. Let's take a close look at this year's ACTHA CTC schedule and make it happen! Go go http://www.actha.us for all things ACTHA!

Attending the 2011 MFTHBA International Show and Celebration was a real treat for Deb and I! We had never been before and we thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience. It was a very beneficial and educational time for us. The trail rides during the day were wonderful with 30 - 40 MFTs out on the trail! The daily Versatility events had real "cowboy" stuff showing all the talents of our breed! The nightly shows demonstrated the MFT's "flashy" side! Other FoxTROT members attending were Terry Messex and Jaime Whiteaker. We commented at the time that it would be great if we could get a group of FoxTROT members to attend the Show and Celebration in 2012. If you have never been, consider joining us as we hope to return!

There are those such as Nostradamus and the Mayan Calendar which predict all sorts of apocalyptic events for 2012! I think we'll simply continue to trail ride our favorite horses, the Missouri Fox Trotter! We're hoping that you'll come along for the ride!

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT
smfoxtrotters@hotmail.com

2011 Southeastern MFTHBA National Trail Ride and Foxtrotter Affair

2011-10-04T04:20:00.016-05:00

If the definition of a successful trail ride is great horses, trails, weather, campground, food and fellowship then the 2011 Southeastern MFTHBA National Trail Ride and Foxtrotter Affair was a tremendous success! We had a total of about 30 riders from Indiana, Ohio, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Our youngest rider was 16 and our oldest rider was...well, let's just say he was our oldest rider! While most of the horses were Missouri Fox Trotters; we did have an Appaloosa, some Tennessee Walkers, a Rocky Mountain Horse, and even a gaited mule.

East Fork Stables is a terrific place to hold this ride. All the necessities are provided or available - stalls, shavings, bath houses, camp sites, cabins, etc. There is a large arena, an equine obstacle course, and a covered pavilion. The Rim Riders store has a nice selection of t-shirts, caps, clothing, boots, some tack items and horse/cowboy "flavored" what-nots, nic-nacs. and furniture. The trails are numerous, mostly wide, well maintained and well marked. Trail maps are detailed and Trail Guides are available upon request. We chose to follow the map without a guide, "ride the edge" and did not venture "over the edge" down into the river gorge. Everyone enjoyed the rides! We took our time, stopping along the way, and making sure that we didn't ride any thing too rough or leave anyone behind. The views through the woods, and along the rim are beautiful. We were able to ride different loops each day with out having to ride the same trails. East Fork Stables provides a place where all - young and old, brave and timid, green and dead broke - can ride in safety and have a tremendous time!

During the course of the week we had some pleasant diversions from the trail. The good folk from Crest Ridge Saddlery (http://www.crestridgesaddlery.com) joined us again all week to assist with saddle fit. Debra is always helpful and has a good saddle for our Fox Trotters. Thursday evening a group of 18 went out to Bacarra's, a local German restaurant, which is a special treat. Most fended for themselves through the week for meals at camp and other local restaurants. Ron Munn and Debby Gerhardt did a lot of cooking for many during the week. A big country breakfast around the camp fire is sure good on a chilly Tennessee Fall morning! Friday evening we gathered around the fire to conduct a little FoxTROT business, discussing events for the remainder of 2011 and next year's schedule. We also held our "Ballot Party", which was simply a discussion of the candidates running for positions in the MFTHBA. Sam Gerhardt and Terry Messex were able to provide their insights and suggestions for each position, leaving the final choice to each member. The importance of MFTHBA membership and the influence of the vote was emphasized. On Saturday evening, we pulled all together for a pot luck supper! There was homemade beef vegetable soup with "hoe cakes", Venison Sloppy Joe's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and German Brats. Of course, there was a bounty of sweets! Apple Cobbler, German Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Wafer Cake....you get the picture! Don Britton, a cowboy poet and western artist, joined us around the fire Saturday evening after our meal. "Bronco", as Don prefers to be called, entertained us with humorous and emotion stirring verse. In addition, Bronco donated several prints of his art which we gave away by a guess of the right numbers between 1 - 50. (Check out Bronco's poetry and art at http://www.donbrittonoriginals.com) Before we were finished, Jaime Whiteaker presented her Foxtrotter Affair Awards which consisted of local pottery, some nice leather and biothane tack, a couple of Fox Trotter bits, and some fun training videos. East Fork Stables arranged for a live band to perform at the pavilion on Saturday night. After our activities several ventured that way to get in on the goings on. Early Sunday morning we gathered for Cowboy Church. Sam Gerhardt led about 20 of us in song and presented a thought provoking challenge from the Scriptures. It is a real blessing that we have an organization that is open to having Cowboy Church. As always, there was something for everyone during this ride!

We're already making plans for the 2012 Southeastern MFTHBA National Trail Ride and Foxtrotter Affair! Our tentative dates and location are 4 - 6 October 2012, East Fork Stables. Mark your calendars now and begin making plans to join us next year!

Catching Up! Summer 2011...

2011-09-23T20:04:00.015-05:00

Oh My! How time does fly! It was a very busy summer and now it's gone. Between computer problems, miscommunication, and too much to do, the blogspot has been neglected....Please forgive. There's no way I can remember all of the stories to go with all of these pics. Let it suffice to say that below you'll find a selection of photos from our rides at Harmon Den, NC; Mount Cammerer, GSMNP; and the Summer National Trail Ride, Orchard Cove Stables, GSMNP. I hope you enjoy!

We have a plan to do better, I promise! Donna Maurer will be posting some of the Middle Tennessee summer pics soon. Also, I'll be posting a story and pics about the MFTHBA Show and Celebration in Ava, 3 - 10 September. Terry Messex, Jaime Whiteaker, Deb and I had a great time in Ava! The Southeastern MFTHBA National Trail Ride and Foxtrotter Affair is right upon us, 29 September - 2 October! We'll have a story and pics on that great event by the middle of October. So, stay tuned....and keep checking back!

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

Spring 2011 FoxTROT Central Region Trail Rides/Random Pics

2011-06-10T13:12:00.010-05:00

FoxTROT Central Rep, Donna Maurer, and her predecessor, Terry Messex, always seem to be able to gather a good sized "posse" for weekend day rides. As you can see by the pics, Middle Tennessee offers many excellent riding trails and friendly riding companions. Donna and Terry's contact info is listed at the top of the blogspot. Get a hold of them anytime to find out where their next ride will be!

Random Pics!

2011-05-04T11:53:00.005-05:00

Catching Up - February through April 2011

2011-05-03T21:04:00.024-05:00

Once again, life has gotten in the way of keeping this site current. With that being said, it is time to bring you all up to date. February through April brought us ice, snow, thunderstorms, tornadoes and hail, but in between all that has been trail riding, Spring flowers and brand new MFT babies! Let me see if I can get this put together for you.

February: Cold, Icy, Snowy...Need I say more? There were a few nice enough days that the "die hards" (Terry, Ray and Donna, Lea, Sam and Debby, as well as a few others) saddled up and ventured out. Show some of us a sunny day above freezing in February and we're going to hit the trail!

March: March brought some better days and opportunities to get out. Donna Maurer and the Central FoxTROT group began day riding together a good bit. The members who maintain places at Big South Fork began to get out more as well. Of course, Deb and I were out on our Smoky Mountain Trails. The 2011 FoxTROT Spring Gathering at Catoosa Ridge Stables in Crossville went well for those who were able to join us. However, we were disappointed that cold nasty weather kept many away who had intended to come. In spite of the weather, the 9 or so of us were able to get in good rides on Friday and Saturday. The pot luck meal on Saturday evening was great as we enjoyed the food, fellowship and drawing for the door prizes. Last year we had The Winter Gathering the end of February and froze, this year we had The Spring Gathering the end of March and nearly froze. I say we set The 2012 Spring Gathering for the end of April! Maybe we won't freeze and, hopefully, we won't get blown away in a tornado!

We want to acknowledge and give special thanks to those who so generously donated the door prizes for The 2011 FoxTROT Spring Gathering. The MFTHBA Promotions Committee (Amber Wilson) sent a nice box of gifts with a value of more than $50.0o. The Horse Emporium (Kathy Kear) in Knoxville gave a ball cap. Heaven's Gait Farm (Jaime Whiteaker) gave a Foxtrotter Affair T-Shirt. The FoxTROT Board gave a 2012 Membership to FoxTROT. True West Campground and Stables (new owners, Shawn and Donna Martin) gave a $100.00 gift certificate. Catoosa Ridge Stables gave two 2011 season passes to day ride. The following Horse Camps gave 2 nights camping with 2 stalls: Catoosa Ridge Stables (CRS gave two 2 nights w/ 2 stalls!), Orchard Cove Stables, Circle E Guest Ranch, The Bolo Club, Big South Fork Lodge, and East Fork Stables. Be sure to support all of these friends this year with your patronage!

April: Many more day rides as the weather began to improve. The Central FoxTROT group was especially active throughout April. Donna and Terry have done very well at getting folks together to ride in Middle Tennessee. As we all know, the end of April brought the tragic weather to many in the Southeast. To my knowledge, no one in FoxTROT had any major damage to person or property. However, the storms did do much damage at The Seven Springs Lodge in Alabama, causing Central FoxTROT to cancel the planned 3 day ride there for the end of April.

Oh! I dare not forget to mention that with springtime comes new "babies"! Congrats to Lea Valentine and Jaime Whiteaker for the new additions to their Fox Trotter families!

Surely, I've left something important out. If so, please forgive me. Enjoy the rest of Spring 2011. Get out, get together and let's Foxtrotting Trail Ride in Tennessee!!

Happy Trails, Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

Why Do I like Horses - A Poem

2011-01-26T13:11:00.003-06:00

Why do I like horses? I think I must be mad.
My mother wasn't horsey - And neither was my dad.
But the madness hit me early - And it hit me like a curse.
And I've never gotten better. In fact, I've gotten worse.
I hardly read a paper - but I know who's sold their horse.
And I wouldn't watch the news - Unless Mr. Ed was on, of course.
One eye's always on the heavens - But my washing waves in vain
As I rush to get the horses in - In case it's gonna rain.
I spend up every cent I've got - On horsey stuff for sure
I buy saddles, bridles, fancy boots - And then I buy some more.
I can't sew on a button - I don't even try
But I can back a truck and trailer - In the twinkling of an eye.
It's jeans and boots that I live in night and day
And that smell of sweaty horses just doesn't wash away.
I ache from long forgotten falls. My knees have got no skin.
My toes have gone a funny shape - from being stomped on again and again.
But late at night, when all is still - and I've gone to give them hay,
I touch their velvet softness and my worries float away.
They give a gentle nicker and they nuzzle through my hair
And I know it's where my heart is - more here than anywhere.

Author Unknown...Submitted by Karen Gagliano, FoxTROT Treasurer

Minutes from the 2011 Winter Board of Director's Meeting

2011-01-26T11:17:00.000-06:00

The 2011 Fox TROT Board of Directors met on January 8, 2011 at Uncle Buck's Restaurant in Sevier County. In attendance were Sam Gerhardt (President), Lea Valentine (Vice President), Samm Riggin (Secretary), Donna Maurer (Mid. TN Rep), Heather Webb (East TN Rep) - as well as members Debby Gerhardt and Ray Maurer. Due to the weather, Treasurer, Karen Gagliano was unable to be present.

On the agenda and discussed was the 2011 ride schedule (as listed above on the blogspot). At the Spring Gathering (March 26, 2011 at Catoosa Ridge) a pot luck dinner will be served at 5:30pm at the Catoosa Ridge dining hall. A group ride will be organized for those who want to ride earlier in the day. Some members will come early (Thursday/Friday) and spend the weekend - all are welcome!

The Summer ride at Orchard Cove Stables in Townsend (June 15 - 18, 2011) will be a MFTHBA National Trail Ride sponsored by FoxTROT. Samm Riggin will work with Freda Webb at OCS to redesign/update the T-shirts for the event. Activities for the weekend and possible trail routes were discussed. The possiblitliy of having professional entertainment on Saturday pm was also talked about. FoxTROT board members agreed to pay the $5 fee for the National Trail Ride for current FoxTROT members. *Camping space for this event is filling up FAST. If planning to attend, book early!!

September 28 - October 2, 2011 are the dates for Fox Trotter Affair to be held at East Fork Stables in Jamestown, TN. FoxTROT will be responsible for the trail portion of the event. It was also agreed to spend up to $150 to sponsor the event. Trail rides for Fox Trotter Affair will also be MFTHBA National Trail rides and co-sponsored by FoxTROT and a Georgia MFT affiliate.

The MFTHBA Youth Affiliate has asked FoxTROT to help with a National Trail Ride to be held at East Fork Stables (Jamestown, TN) during Memorial Day weekend (May 28 - 30, 2011). Details to come.

The FoxTROT regional reps are putting together smaller day rides and/or weekend rides to be held in between our larger, scheduled events. These will be announced via email and phone calls as they are scheduled.

Trainer clinics specific to gaited breeds were discussed. Trainer Liz Graves will hold a gaited horse clinic at Orchard Cove Stables in Townsend, TN the last weekend of August (8/27 - 28/2011).

It was discussed to put out a "feeler" with members to see if there is an interest in holding a "Ground Manners" mini-clinic to be held in the Spring.

Membership participation awards to boost member involvement were discussed. Plans are in the works for different awards to be presented for various rides (ie 1st ride, 10th ride, 30th ride, etc). Sam suggested a larger award (ie MFT belt buckle) to be awarded for 30+ rides as an example.

Affiliate membership with the ACTHA (American Competitive Trail Horse Association) is being looked into. What are the "perks" for FoxTROT?

Sam discussed the importance of FoxTROT continuing on as an affiliate with the MFTHBA and the requirement of the board to be current MFTHBA members. This is to help ensure that FoxTROT remain true to it's mission as a Missouri Fox Trotter trail riding group.

Individual officer responsibilities were gone over for the benefit of incoming officers.

Because Karen Gagliano (Treasurer) was not present, there was no treasurer's report presented.

All in all, meeting time was very well spent and everyone left with great excitement for our group and the upcoming year!

A New Year - A New FoxTROT

2011-01-19T16:31:00.003-06:00

FoxTROT's 2011 BOD (l-r) Samm Riggin - Secretary, Lea Valentine - Vice President, Heather Webb - East TN Rep, Sam Gerhardt - President, Ray Maurer - Member, Donna Maurer - Middle TN Rep

Randolph the Bow Legged Cowboy!

2010-12-10T06:34:00.007-06:00

Christmas is a special time of year! It is a time of Family, Friends, Faith and Films (Don't you all enjoy the holiday movies?)! Well, I've been singing a song I learned YEARS ago to my children and now grandchildren (or whoever else's children that will listen!). I have no idea who wrote it or how to give credit. You may find that the children in your life will enjoy it, so I'm sharing with you. Sing this to the tune of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer".

"Randolph the bow legged cowboy
Had a very shiny gun,
And if you ever saw it
You would turn away and run.

All of the other cowboys
Used to laugh and call him names.
They never let poor Randolph
Join in any horseback games.

Then one snowy Christmas Eve,
The sheriff came to say,
Randolph with your guns so bright,
Won't you lead my posse tonight?

Then how the cowgirls loved him,
And they shouted out with glee,
Randolph the bowlegged cowboy
You'll go down in history!"

Merry Christmas and Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

Elections and Membership Renewals

2010-12-10T05:20:00.005-06:00

Well, here we are at the end of another successful year. From The Winter Gathering on to our first National Trail Ride and then to the Foxtrotter Affair, FoxTROT experienced great participation and reviews in 2010. We anticipate 2011 to be even better! It is now time to cast your ballot for the 2011 officers and to renew your membership. The new candidates are all actively involved in FoxTROT and bring energy and additional ideas to us. Please thoroughly answer the ballot and mail it with your completed membership renewal and dues. Many have already accomplished this. Your input and continued support is what makes FoxTROT viable, motivated and successful. Let me see an envelope from you in my mail box soon!

It is also time to renew membership in the national organization, the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association. There are many benefits to belonging to the MFTHBA (http://www.mfthba.com/), the most important being the right to vote and to provide input to the direction of the organization. It is my personal experience that the leadership of the MFTHBA does have an ear and will respond to communication from the membership. There are many positive changes taking place in the MFTHBA and I like to think that those changes have been influenced by individual members who remain actively engaged. Of course, as I write this I'm aware that most of FoxTROT want to trail ride and have no interest in the affairs of the MFTHBA. This is understandable, believe me! However, the MFTHBA is OUR breed registry. To keep it strong we must be members; to influence it in a better direction we must vote and communicate our desires and concerns. There is strength in numbers. Please consider joining or renewing your membership in the MFTHBA for 2011.

FoxTROT's next full organizational ride will be The Spring Gathering at Catoosa Ridge Stables, Crossville, TN, Saturday, 26 March 2011. Notice this is a "Spring" Gathering. Last year The "Winter" Gathering had a bit too much "winter" so we postponed this event for a month in 2011. Be looking for further information after the new year.

Thanksgiving Weekend at KC Ranch, Alabama

2010-12-09T06:18:00.006-06:00

After giving thanks to the Lord with family for all His blessings upon us, several of us met at KC Ranch (http://www.kcranchalabama.com/) in Double Springs, Alabama. Ken and Carol McDonald are the owners of KC Ranch which is located in beautiful northwest Alabama on the edge of the Bankhead National Forrest. It just so happens that Ken and Carol own/trail ride our favorite breed, Missouri Fox Trotters! We did all of our riding on the many miles of the private trails of KC Ranch. There are several loops to make, ranging from an hour to several hours in length. We rode along the creek beds, through the woods, across the bridges, and over the sandstone and red clay. The trails are well marked and color coded trail maps were provided. Three delicious meals a day were provided in the dining hall. As Terry M would say, "You could founder at this place"! They really did serve the best food I've eaten at a horse camp. The campsites are level with full hookups (water, electric, septic) and are near the stalls. A cabin is available for those without living quarters. I was surprised that the camp was nearly full with riders/campers coming from Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and other places. We look forward to returning to KC Ranch and would encourage others to go there to camp, eat and ride!

Those joining Deb and I were Hunter (our oldest grandson), Bob and Betty Wills, Terry Messex, Felix and Rose Walters, Terry and Julie Yokely. Most of us were riding our MFTs, but there were a couple of Spotted Saddle Horses among us. Of course, we talked up our MFTs to all who would give an ear! I left copies of The Journal in the dining hall and noticed that they were being read by other guests. While we were there Terry Y, Felix W, and Ken and Carol all joined FoxTROT! We are happy to see them become a part and look forward to riding with them in the future. Of course, we finished our visit Sunday morning with Cowboy Church. There were 17 of us gathered around the fire for some singing and an encouraging word from the Scriptures. Everyone then said our "nice to meet you" and "see y'all later" before breaking camp, loading horses and heading home. Once again, we were reminded why we started FoxTROT in the first place.

Merry Christmas and Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

Fall Ride at Circle E Guest Ranch

2010-12-06T05:23:00.012-06:00

Donna and Terry put together a 3 day ride in Middle Tennessee at the Circle E Guest Ranch., 11 - 14 November 2010. A friend of Ray and Donna's and new MFT owner, Casey Rogilio, wrote a nice record of her day ride with the group. I have edited it slightly to post to the blog.

"Seven riders met at Circle E, on top of the Cumberland Plateau, to ride in the woods as part of the FoxTROT ride. Terry Lea, Bob, Felix, Donna, Ray and myself. We took off across the road from the camp heading generally north and into an open logging area. We had maps, but we weren't paying tons of attention to them at times. Woo Hoo! It was a down hill jaunt from the moment we headed out of the logging area and my heart was beating rapidly. I dinna care for downhill that much; uphill is good, downhill is bad in my general mantra! Donna and I realized that our saddles were giving us some side to side motion so we made our tack adjustments and then continued the ride onto a flat road.

"We stayed on the flat road for oh, about 20 feet, if that! then Ray led us off and up the side of a hill into some trees and by a granite bluff. I still don't know if he knew where we were going or if Terry had told him, but we ended up in 'Hooterville'! Yep, we sure did! There must have been about 100 bras fastened onto the trees! We headed on from there, downhill and up again 'til Terry got to thinking we were on hunting land. Yikes. We had 2 darker buckskins that could have looked like deer, 3 sorrels and 2 black and whites. Thankfully, I had on my bright yellow rain jacket so 'I' would have been safe. LOL. No, hopefully any hunters would have realized that they were horses with people on them. We had to go back the way we had come. My heart was no longer beating rapidly. My horse, Cassey, had some of the p&v taken out of her on the slopes so far. I realized she was a more sure footed thing, even on steeper slopes, than I normally ride. She's not one to go headlong down a slope just to keep up with the other horses. She would also slow at fallen trees and carefully negotiate them.

"I took tons of pictures, trying to capture the brilliant light we saw pouring out of the sky and giving our eyes a feast of blazing oranges, bright yellows and fiery reds. At times the leaves seemed almost incandescent, they were so illuminated. There was no way for pictures to do justice to the beauty we saw at every turn of the trail.

"I felt so blessed to be able to ride on this occasion for more than one reason. It was a marvel to look at the beauty God had for us. Donna had invited me and I confess I felt a touch of trepidation at riding at Circle E. I had heard the trails could be rough. Well, Cassey took great care of me. She puffed up the hills. I know on one occasion she came to a halt and I felt she was firmly telling me to haul my OWN butt up the hill! We went down rocky places where she had to place her feet carefully and up rocky places where she had to scramble to get good footing. CW McCall's son 'Black Bear Road' kept coming to mind; there were 'rocks as big as a hall closet' that we passed and lots of grapefruit sized rocks to pick our way through. We rode past boulders as big as houses and at least one HUGE boulder that had to be 50 feet high.

"It was a wonderful day. At one point I told Ray and Donna that my cheeks hurt from grinning so much. I feel like I've come a long way as a trail rider. We negotiated some downhill and through trees/rock stuff that would have sent me screaming in the other direction with Justin, and Dino would have probably lost his mind on some of the uphills. It helps immensely to have a horse that is a seasoned trail horse and can take care of herself and her rider. Yay Cassey!!! I know I slept well last night; hopefully Cassey did too!"

Obviously, Casey had a wonderful time riding with FoxTROT! In addition to those mentioned in Casey's article, others joining the ride that weekend were Michael and Sharon Lesner, Kathy and Marty, and some folk from the area. Deb and I did not make this ride, and it sounds like we missed out!

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt

President, FoxTROT

Foxtrotter Affair 2010

2010-10-25T05:45:00.002-05:00

(There are no photos with this article. For some strange reason none of us had working cameras! Sorry.)

The first annual Foxtrotter Affair (http://www.foxtrotteraffair.com) was held at East Fork Stables (http://www.eastforkstables.com) in Jamestown, TN, 8 - 12 September 2010, in conjunction with the FoxTROT Fall Trail Ride. Along with the usual 20 or so MFT trail riders from FoxTROT, we had folks bring their MFTs from Kentucky, Virginia, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida and Missouri.

The trail riding on East Fork is second to none! Guides were provided to accommodate each skill level of trail rider. Trails were well marked and expansive. We enjoyed the trails each day, even in the rain. I can no longer say, "I've never left the barn in the rain". East Fork should be on every trail rider's "bucket list" of places to ride.

Crest Ridge Saddlery (http://www.crestridgesaddlery.com) gave an excellent clinic on saddle fit. The explanations and information was understandable and valuable. The CRS staff was busy during the entire event assisting and advising. It is certain that many saw the need to replace poorly fit saddles and purchase a top quality saddle from CRS on the spot. Many others will , no doubt, make an order with CRS after they return home. We will look forward to seeing these folks again at next year's Foxtrotter Affair.

Henry Dunn, a MFT trainer from Florida, was on hand to help folks in the arena with their gaits. After a brief demonstration, he was kept busy throughout the event one on one with interested riders. Many comments were made about the great help received from Mr. Dunn.

A competitive trail obstacle course was set up for casual use as desired. Many presented the opportunity to their MFTs to meet the challenges. Most did very well, while some will need more exposure! I heard several say that they will be building obstacles on their places in order to be better prepared for next year! Since the MFTHBA is now associated with the American Competitive Trail Horse Association (http://www.actha.us.com) this type of course certainly will continue to be popular with trail riders.

For many, the charity horse show for the local animal rescue group was the highlight of the Foxtrotter Affair. East Fork was covered up with locals and MFT riders enjoying the show. Several of our MFTs placed in their appropriate classes. The rain did create some issues, but all seemed to have a great time, "entering at the fox trot"!

The last evening was spent at the pavilion. We enjoyed a delicious bar-b-que supper. After the meal, cash awards were presented to certain participants (who doesn't like cash theses days?), like oldest and youngest, best cowboy and cowgirl, who traveled farthest, and those who placed in the show. In addition to cash, some received a copy of the book, Fox Trot Trackings. The awards were well deserved by all who received them. Arrangements were made for entertainment from a local band to follow the meal and awards presentation. Many remained at the pavilion to enjoy the music, dance and, well, you know what goes with this for many MFT folks! The music with "hoops and hollers" was heard well into the night. The last night night was made very special by all of these activities.

Sunday morning brought Cowboy Church. A message meant to challenge and encourage came from the book of Revelation. Jesus is coming again, but this time He will be riding a white horse not a donkey! (Yes, there must be horses in heaven!) The challenge to each was to be certain that they had trusted the shed blood of the risen Savior, rather than religion or good works, in order to be ready for His return! After a word of Prayer, Cowboy Church was dismissed.

The 2010 Foxtrotter Affair was a great success! Special thanks to all who gave and worked so diligently to provide this tremendous event. Be sure to save the website to your "favorites" list in order to keep current with plans for the 2011 Foxtrotter Affair to be held 28 September - 2 October 2011.

Happy Trails

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

FoxTROT's First MFTHBA National Trail Ride!!

2010-08-03T22:21:00.010-05:00

On 21-25 July 2010, FoxTROT gathered in the Great Smoky Mountains at Orchard Cove Stables for our first FoxTROT/MFTHBA National Trail Ride. There were 26 riders in all with over 30 horses in camp. Besides our Tennessee folks, the Moore family came down from central Illinois; the Godwins and Kellys came up from LA (that's Lower Alabama); and Don Groh came over from North Carolina. Although there were a few "other " horses welcomed on the ride, most of us were enjoying the smooth, sure footed gaits of our Missouri Fox Trotters.

We were able to make several great rides in the Smokies where the elevation brought us cooler temperatures than in the valley. On Thursday we got an early start and trailered 18 horses to the back side of Cades Cove so we could make the ride up to Gregory Bald (elevation: 4,949 ft). The wild blue berries were coming in and the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys were priceless. Although many were tired and maybe a bit sore after being out for 7 hours, everyone made comments about how much they enjoyed Gregory Bald. On Friday we rode out of camp casually in small and large groups to enjoy the School House Gap Trail and onward to other loops in the area. Everyone was conscious of the need to get back and get ready for Donna and Ray's wedding in the evening. Saturday brought another early start, trailering around 8:00 a.m., to get to the Middle Prong Trail in the Tremont area of the Smokies. About 15 made this loop ride along the creek on up to the Miry Ridge Trail and back down to the trailers. The highlight of this ride was the water crossings, cascades and waterfalls along the trail. The cool breezes along the creek and in the elevation were a welcome break from the summer heat. Sunday morning brought a big camp pot luck breakfast and Cowboy Church, after which most had to break camp and make there way home. As always, new friends were made and old friendships were strengthened as we enjoyed one another and our great Missouri Fox Trotters on the trail and in camp. With a few tearful "see ya' later" and "hope to ride with you again soon", the FoxTROT/MFTHBA National Trail Ride in the Smokies came to an end. Everyone agreed that the Great Smoky Mountains provided us a wonderful place to ride in the summer.

If all this sounds wonderful to you, then make your plans right away to join us on a future trail ride. The next FoxTROT ride is just around the corner. The FoxTROT Fall Trail Ride, along with the Foxtrotter Affair, is set for 8-12 September at East Fork Stables in Jamestown, TN. For reservations at East Fork Stables go to http://www.eastforkstables.com/, then go to http://www.foxtrotteraffair.com/ to register for the Foxtrotter Affair.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

P.S. Be sure to check out the slide show presentation prepared by Lea Valentine, FoxTROT VP. You'll find it in the blog below the wedding blog.

FoxTROT's First Wedding!!

2010-08-03T21:24:00.007-05:00

On Friday, 23 July 2010, FoxTROT members, Donna Porter and Ray Maurer, were joined in holy matrimony! The ceremony was held on the steps of an old Methodist church in Townsend, Tennessee, just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The wedding was planned by the couple to coincide with the FoxTROT/MFTHBA National Trail Ride in the Smokies. Those in attendance were members of FoxTROT who came to participate in the ride. FoxTROT President, Sam Gerhardt, who is an ordained minister, presided over the service. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed a "wedding supper" at the Carriage House Restaurant where a surprise wedding cake was presented to the newly married couple. The next morning Ray and Donna returned to camp around 7:00 a.m. and saddled up to join the rest on the Saturday trail ride by 8:00 a.m.

The wedding vows recited by the couple were a bit unique to a horse oriented household. " I, (Ray/Donna), take you (Donna/Ray), as my lawful wedded (wife/husband) to have and to hold from this day forward. I promise to love and cherish you, to honor and sustain you, in the bad that may darken our days, in the good that may light our ways, in sickness as in health, in poverty as in wealth, for better or for worse, through horse buying and selling, riding and training (at which point, Ray said, "That's a tough one."), and forsaking all others, to be true to you in all things until death alone shall part us." Later, the couple told us that the only real 'disagreement' they'd had in their four years together was over buying or not buying a horse. So, the unique vows proved to be perfectly appropriate!

Our prayers remain with Mr. and Mrs. Maurer. We wish them great success and happiness in their marriage.

ANNUAL SUMMER RIDE at ORCHARD COVE STABLES

2010-07-30T11:30:00.007-05:00

Lea Valentine posted the pictures of the FoxTROT annual Summer ride held at Orchard Cove Stables, (Great Smokies) Townsend, TN. Unfortunately, we were not able to attend, but by these pictures, it was beautiful, as usual. Future BLOG posts about this adventure to come soon!

Click on below:

Lea's Pictures

Summer Riding!

2010-07-07T17:56:00.003-05:00

Once again we're in the middle of a hot summer. Many are not able to ride because of the heat. Fortunately, those of us who live/ride in the mountains can start early and get into the elevation where it's pleasant. This is part of the reason for scheduling the FoxTROT Summer Trail Ride in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. At last check, Freda tells me that we have 31 horses registered with Orchard Cove. There has been a good response from MFT Trail Riders outside of Tennessee because of the MFTHBA National Trail Ride. We look forward to seeing all of you at Orchard Cove Stables, Townsend, TN, 21 - 25 July 2010.

As usual, Deb and I ride nearly every week end. If interested, you can check out recent updates to our personal blogspot, http://www.ridinghappytrails.blogspot.com/.

Happy Trails, Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

RIDING AT HIGH COUNTRY HORSE CAMP

2010-06-24T20:51:00.006-05:00

My sister and I arrived at High Country Horse Camp Sunday evening and got our horses settled in.We met some of the fellow campers then drove to town, 25 miles away to eat dinner.

Monday morning two happy horses greeted us at breakfast time. They loved the large stalls at HCHC and Tango even laid down in the night.
We saddled and packed our lunches and cameras in our saddle bags and headed out up the road. We traveled an old county road for two or three miles then crossed the paved road again and entered the Mt. Rogers area. We were still traveling on the wide cinder road which was a constant climb since leaving camp when we came upon a network of tubing strung around trees. It looked like children had been there playing and left their "toys". As we continued on we came to another area of the same tubing and couldn't imagine what it was until we noticed a faded sign telling this was a Maple sugar water collection area. Having come from an area in Indiana where Maple trees were tapped and sugar water was drained into a bucket this tubing network leading to a large plastic tank was quite a labor saving system and quite interesting to me.

We continued another two miles or so and came into an open area which was Mt. Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. Here we found the Appalachian Trail, this section for hikers only and the VA Highlands Horse Trail. The plan for the day, because I had only been riding about a month and only short rides due to herniated discs and of course Tango who'd had a long vacation due to my health wasn't in top condition either.

Our plan was to take a short loop and return to camp early. On our short ride that took a total of 6 1/2 hours we experienced some beautiful scenery and even encountered a bear cub on the trail who quickly retreated to somewhere, probably a tree nearby. The trail we met him on opened to a small bald with wild cherry trees that had fruit on them and the bears had mutilated the small trees by trying to climb them to retrieve the fruit.

Many places we had to open gates, which normally wouldn't have been a problem on our handy fox trotters that do side pass and back but the gates weren't well designed to be opened from horseback. Still we managed to open about half of them without dismounting.
The riding is rugged and rocky but beautiful and I hope to return again when my fox trotter and I are both in better physical condition.

Kate Shaner
Jamestown, TN
www.mtnmajestyminiatureschnauzers.com

INSPIRATION!!

2010-06-18T15:31:00.006-05:00

Among new members to FoxTROT and the MFTHBA are Bob and Betty, my wife's mom and dad. Dad, who will be 75 in August, rode as a young man but hadn't been on a horse in 25 - 30 years. Mom had NEVER had an interest in riding. Deb says she can't remember her mother even touching her horse. Well that's all changed now! Dad, who had triple bypass surgery last year, started talking last winter about wanting to ride again. So, on a warm day earlier this spring we invited him to ride with us. He rode the Big Creek Trail on one of our MFTs for about nine miles on a Saturday. Well, you know the MFT motto, "To ride one is to own one". By the next Saturday he had bought his own MFT (Surprise, from Terry Messex) and a new Tucker trail saddle! He's ridden with us many times since and has been to horse camp with us twice. It has all come back to him and he rides like a seasoned trail rider. He'll go wherever for however long you want to go! With Dad's renewed interest, Deb's mom started talking about wanting to learn to ride. So, she began to come ride in our arena for about thirty minutes a day for three weeks. She rides Rebel, Deb's MFT gelding, right now but Dad bought her a two year old quiet palomino MFT gelding, Trigger (also from Terry), who we're getting ready for her. She's been to horse camp with us and has ridden several times. Naturally, Mom likes to ride the easier trails for about two hours. She's doing wonderfully! I wanted to share this story to encourage each one to saddle up and hit the trails! If mom and dad can do it, so can you! Come ride with us and meet Bob and Betty! Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt

President, FoxTROT

FOXTROTTER AFFAIR

2010-05-30T16:14:00.005-05:00

A full-page ad about the upcoming Foxtrotter Affair is featured in THE TRAIL RIDER, Special Edition June, 2010; page 33. This exciting event will be held at East Fork Stables, this September, as posted above. Looks like it will be very interesting, fun, and educational. Our FoxTrot member, Jaime Whiteaker is spear-heading this event.
Make your reservation NOW!
For additional info, call Jamie 941-416-3935 or got to: www.FoxtrotterAffair.com

Spring Trail Ride at Circle E

2010-05-28T14:28:00.006-05:00

Our VP, Lea Valentine, put together a great slide show from the Spring Trail Ride which is posted below. If you haven't taken a look, be sure to do so. Although it has taken me too long to make this post, I wanted to write a few lines.

The ride at Circle E Guest Ranch was unique in several ways. First, we had members to join us who have not been able to camp at our previous rides! Jaime Whiteaker and her trainer, John, brought 3 MFTs. They experienced what I call, "horse biscuits and butterflies". The "horse biscuits" was that Jaime's truck broke down on the long pull up the mountain on the way to camp. We were able to get the horses onto another trailer while she waited for a tow to the local Ford dealership. The "butterflies" was that Jaime and John were able to ride all week and enjoyed their time on the trail and around camp. Of course, getting the truck repaired and back to her was "butterflies"as well! Samara Riggins was able to camp with us, as well. She brought her dog, her rescue TWH (yes, we let her ride with our MFTs) and stayed in her new trailer. New FoxTROT members, Bob and Betty Wills, My wife's parents, also joined us. They came with one MFT and went home with two! They bought a 2 year old palomino gelding from Terry Messex. As Roy Rogers fans, they call him "Trigger". Of course the usual suspects were present, Terry Messex, Lea Valentine, The Crossville Bunch (Roger and Rhonda Wyatt, Freddie Whittenberg), and Deb and I. The second thing unique to the Spring Trail Ride was that this was our first organized ride at Circle E Guest Ranch. Last year we had to cancel out of Circle E because of the rainy weather. We were concerned about too wet trails again this year with all of the rain Nashville received. Fortunately, Circle E missed the rain and the trails were over all in good shape. You can ride at just about any preference level you like at Circle E. They have a great camp with lots of space. There are pics on the slide show posted below. Thirdly, the TWHBEA held an Extreme Cowboy Competition on Saturday. It was fun to watch the competitors navigate the osbstacles in the arena as shown in the photo. A young lady who won the Craig Cameron Extreme Cowboy Race was a competitor on her TWH black stallion. I think she placed second. We all had a wonderful time. I hope that all this info encourages you to come ride with FoxTROT so that you do not miss out!

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

SPRING RIDE/FUN AT CIRCLE E

2010-05-14T23:10:00.002-05:00

Our V.P., Lea Valentine, sent a fun link to some pictures of the FoxTrotters having a good time at Circle E.
Click on the link below. This will take you to where the pictures will load (while it is loading, click on "Full Screen" mode in the upper right hand corner). There is a short animated introduction, and then the FoxTrot pictures will start going.
The pictures will keep repeating, so when you are through viewing, you can just hit your "back arrow" on your address bar, and it will bring you back here.
Enjoy!!!!

http://smilebox.com/playEmail/4d5459334e5441334d7a46384d7a63774e5451344e7a673d0d0a&sb=1

"YEP, I DO RELATE"!

2010-04-13T08:30:00.001-05:00

You need to read through into the "Rest of the Story" to get your "Yep, I Do Relate"!

WHAT OWNING A HORSE MEANS:

When you are tense, let me teach you to relax.
When you are short sighted, let me teach you to see.
When you are short tempered, let me teach you to be patient.
When you are quick to react, let me teach you to be thoughtful.
When you are angry, let me teach you to be serene.
When you feel superior, let me teach you to be respectful.
When you are self-absorbed, let me teach you to think of greater things.
When you are arrogant, let me teach you humility.
When you are lonely, let me be your companion.
When you are tired, let me carry the load.
When you need to learn, let me teach you.
After all, I am your horse.

And now... The REST of the STORY!

When you are tense, let me teach you that there are dragons in the forest and we need to leave NOW!
When you are short-sighted, let me teach you to figure out where exactly in the 40 acres I am hiding.
When you are short-tempered, let me teach you how to slog around the pasture for an hour before you can catch me.
When you are quick to react, let me teach you that herbivores kick MUCH faster than omnivores.
When you are angry, let me teach you how well I can stand on my hind feet, because I don't FEEL like cantering on my right lead today, that's why.
When you are worried, let me entertain you with my mystery lameness, GI complaint and skin disease.
When you feel superior, let me teach you that, mostly, you are the maid service.
When you are self-absorbed, let me teach you to PAY ATTENTION. I told you about those dragons in the forest.
When you are arrogant, let me teach you what 1200 lbs of yipee-yahoo-gotta-go horse can do when suitably inspired.
When you are lonely, let me be your companion. Let's do lunch. Breakfast and dinner sound good, too.
When you are tired, don't forget about the 600 lbs of grain that needs to be unloaded.
When you are feeling financially secure, let me teach you the meaning of "veterinary services".
When you need to learn, hang around the barn, Bud, I'll learn ya.

ZENITH STABLES RIDE

2010-04-13T02:44:00.012-05:00

There was an abundance of fun this past weekend at Zenith Stables and riding in BSF.
Some members arrived on Thursday, and then Friday and Saturday. Lots of good riding, scenic adventures, smiling and laughing along the way. For a couple of the days, we shared the campgrounds with a bunch of "Mule People". Now, not to say anything against a good mule, except they are very vociferous, which is a good thing if you want to know if anything and anybody is coming into the campground.
I urge all of you to come and join us at any of the rides, being scheduled or not. We are there to help you in any way---from setting up your campsite to riding the trails--no matter your experience level. You will enjoy your ride, and you will not go away hungry---ohhhh, especially if the "Munn Family" is around. Man, they are set up to cook for a crowd, and do so very expertly.
This trip, we not only had the Munn's cooking, but Deb's Mom, Betty, was there to do her share of the "Meal Presentation" while Deb's 75 yr. young Dad rode out on the trails.
Have a favorite place to ride?? Let us know and we'll send it out to all the members. You never know who might show up!
M

Trail Riding Season, 2010!

2010-03-25T05:37:00.004-05:00

Greetings FoxTROT,

Now that the temperatures are warming and the days are longer, most of us will be getting in the saddle and on the trails more. It's time to clean up around the farm/ranch/barn, make sure that all equine vaccines and coggins are current, bathe and brush (and brush and brush and brush) the winter off the horses, and inspect the trailer (how are your tires?). Are you ready for trail riding season?

I'm excited about the 2010 season! Our FoxTROT Seasonal Rides have been coordinated with great events and we expect record participation at each. (Don't forget to make your reservations early at each camp this year.) There are several clinics available and the ACTHA has 4 Competitive Trail Competitions on the calendar in Tennessee. In addition, we will continue to keep you informed of "impromptu rides" that develop through out the year. (By the way, several of us are meeting at Zenith Stables to ride the Big South Fork, Thursday, 8 April through Sunday, 11 April.) If you would like to have other FoxTROT members join you on your week end or day rides, be sure to let us know when and where you plan to ride and we'll help get out the word. I'm really looking forward to riding with you this season!

Be sure to visit my personal blogspot at http://www.ridinghappytrails.blogspot.com/ for current trail riding photos and comments.

As always, please let us know how FoxTROT can be of help to you.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt

President, FoxTROT

RELAXED AND READY TO RIDE

2010-03-23T20:40:00.007-05:00

After James gave Doc Chery's MFT mare, "Miss Niki", his Total Equine Massage Therapy Treatment---she's ready to hop into the van and go for a ride(who needs a horse trailer!!!) Ahhh, such a good life!

FoxTROT WINTER GATHERING, 2010

2010-03-04T10:45:00.016-06:00

With approximately 35 people in attendance, the FoxTROT Winter Gathering at Catoosa Ridge Stables was a huge success! Some of us arrived on Friday and camped over. On Friday and Saturday, members who rode were bundled up so much it was hard to tell one person from the other but all said they really enjoyed their ride. I think I had the best deal staying in the kitchen and preparing the food. Let me say that Robbie Messex was a huge help to me in that department! And as good fortune has it, the manager of Catoosa, Gretta York, not only made us feel welcome in the kitchen, but helped us cook. What a deal! We had plenty of food, companionship and just good horse-talk amongst everyone. Sam did a great job with securing door prizes that consisted of tack and free nights at various horse campgrounds. Some members brought their slightly used tack to sell to anybody who was interested. Then to finish the afternoon, Jamie Whittaker's trainer, John, gave some pointers on "Foxtrotting". On Sunday, Cowboy Church was held, the stalls were cleaned and everyone was home bound with more good FoxTROT-related memories.

Moira

FoxTROTing at Franklin Forrest State Park/Mount Eagle Mountain

2010-02-23T22:06:00.004-06:00

Our Middle Tennessee Rep of FoxTROT, Terry Messex, with FoxTROT members Donna, Ray, and Bob---plus some fellow riders having a great time once the snow melted and the temps got to where one could enjoy riding--Looks like they were having too much fun!!

MFT PHOTOS WANTED!

2010-02-17T09:05:00.003-06:00

Sam sent me this request from Stefanie Schermerhorn, Editor, to post out to all of you guys. I then questioned Stefanie as to the type of photos she is interested in, so some of the following is her answer to that.

Hello, my name is Stefanie Schermerhorn, I am the editor for a new online gaited magazine (Gaited Canada) and am looking for high quality, high resolution photos of MFT (all gaited horses) to use for editorials, and content.
The magazines focus is the versatility of gaited horses.

By all means people and horses, trail riding and any other "versatile" type of riding like 3 phase gaited eventing, ranch work, endurance or competitive trail rides, extreme cowboy.. horses in gait is a big plus as I can use them in all "general gaited" articles as well as the MFT issue that will be coming up.

We are looking for any photos that tell why gaited horses can and will do it all and why MFT (for you guys) are great family horses etc..
KIDS and horses is always a great way to promote the breed.

I can also use some show photos showing gait

I look forward to hearing from you and your members

Send photos to: editor@gaited.ca

Stefanie A. Schermerhorn

American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) YAHOO Group

2010-02-07T11:11:00.003-06:00

New ACTHA list on Yahoo Groups! It's a great way to meet other riders, chat about ACTHA rides, post ride photos, ride information and just plain chat horses!

It's a free and easy to use list!
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/ACTHA/

ACTHA's Mission

To provide an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse, granting them the recognition they so richly deserve

To maintain a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction.

To enable the humane treatment of horses in need

The MFTHBA is now an affiliate with ACTHA.

COMPETITIVE TRAIL RIDE BENEFIT

2010-02-07T11:09:00.000-06:00

Hi all,

Just wanted to put a bug in your ears..... mark your calendars.... April 24th.... we are having a competitive trail ride to benefit Horse Haven of TN. It is going to be hosted by True West Campground outside of Jamestown at Big South Fork. www.truewestcampground.com

Hope you can make it! Let's get all of those perty Fox Trotters on those trails!

Samm Riggin

SNOW PICTURES by TERRY MESSEX

2010-01-31T16:32:00.005-06:00

These snowy pics were sent in by Terry Messex from his home in Shelbyville of his MFT's "Surprise" (the spotted one) and "Bean" (the sorrel). I'm going to guess the guy all wrapped up is the one and only Mr. Terry!

SNOW PICTURES by the CORN'S

2010-01-30T15:27:00.005-06:00

With eight inches of snow and counting Beth and Dennis Corn sent these pics of "Windy" and "Shadow" from their home in Hendersonville, N.C.

SNOW PICTURES at OVERLOOK RANCH

2010-01-30T10:38:00.004-06:00

Sent in by James and Moira at their home in Sparta.

SNOW PICTURES by ROGER WYATT

2010-01-30T10:34:00.006-06:00

Sent in by Roger Wyatt from his home in Crossville:

Are You Getting Cabin Fever??

2010-01-24T17:49:00.005-06:00

We're pushing the end of January 2010 and the weather has kept many from getting out on the trail. So, I thought you might enjoy these pics from the last 2 Saturdays! Hopefully, we'll see more nice weather soon and all of us will be able to get in our saddle time. The Winter Gathering is now just a few weeks away. Make your plans to join us! To see more recent trail ride pics go to..... http://www.ridinghappytrails.blogspot.com.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt

President, FoxTROT

COME ATTEND THE FoxTROT WINTER GATHERING!

2010-01-12T07:25:00.006-06:00

Greetings FoxTROT and Friends,

Arrangements have been made with the Catoosa Ridge Stables near Crossville, TN for The FoxTROT Winter Gathering! The dates are 26 - 28 February 2010, Friday - Sunday, with the main event being the Fellowship Meal and Tack Swap/Sale on Saturday afternoon. (If you plan to camp be sure to make your reservations directly with Catoosa Ridge.)

FoxTROT member and 2010 Secretary, Moira Funk, will be catering the Fellowship Meal. Those of us who have tasted her goodies at horse camp can testify to her culinary skills. The cost for the meal is $7.50. Please try and contact Moira directly by February 22 (although if you find you can make it at the last minute, PLEASE COME ON), to make meal reservations and payment Moira Funk, 399 Overlook Dr, Sparta, TN 38583, email: funk6839@blomand.net, or phone 931-316-0317. Catoosa Ridge is allowing FoxTROT to use their kitchen and meeting room for this activity at no additional charge because some of us will be camping over the week-end.

The tentative schedule is as follows--this is on CENTRAL TIME ZONE:

Friday Afternoon - Trail Ride
Friday Evening - Pot Luck Dinner or trip to local restaurant in Crossville

Saturday Morning - Trail Ride
Saturday Early Afternoon - After Ride (Somewhere between 1PM and 2PM)-Fellowship Meal
Saturday Late Afternoon - Tack Sale and Swap, Fox Trot Gait Demonstration
Saturday Evening - Meal on your own, Camp Fire Story Swapping

Sunday Early Morning - Cowboy Church and Singing
Sunday Late Morning - Trail Ride

We look forward to seeing you at The Winter Gathering. Be sure to let us know if you plan to participate.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

I RIDE

2009-12-16T09:17:00.007-06:00

A page from an 87 yr old horsewoman's journal:

I Ride

I ride. That seems like such a simple statement. However as many women who ride know it is really a complicated matter. It has to do with power and empowerment. Being able to do things you might have once considered out of reach or ability. I have considered this as I shovel manure, fill water barrels in the cold rain, wait for the vet/farrier/electrician/hay delivery, change a tire on a horse trailer by the side of the freeway, or cool a gelding out before getting down to the business of drinking a cold beer after a long ride.

The time, the money, the effort it takes to ride calls for dedication. At least I call it dedication. Both my ex-husbands call it 'the sickness'. It's a sickness I've had since I was a small girl bouncing my model horses and dreaming of the day I would ride a real horse. Most of the women I ride with understand the meaning of 'the sickness'. It's not a sport. It's not a hobby. It's what we do and, in some ways, who we are as women and human beings.

I ride. I hook up my trailer and load my gelding. I haul to some trail-head
somewhere, unload, saddle, whistle up my dog and I ride. I breathe in the air, watch the sunlight filter through the trees and savor the movement of my horse.
My shoulders relax. A smile rides my sunscreen smeared face. I pull my ball cap down and let the real world fade into the tracks my horse leaves in the dust.

Time slows. Flying insects buzz loudly, looking like fairies. My gelding flicks his ears and moves down the trail. I can smell his sweat and it is perfume to my senses. Time slows. The rhythm of the walk and the movement of the leaves become my focus. My saddle creaks and the leather rein in my hand softens with the warmth.

I consider the simple statement; I ride. I think of all I do because I ride.
Climb granite slabs, wade into a freezing lake, race a friend through the Manzanita all the while laughing and feeling my heart in my chest. Other days just the act of mounting and dismounting can be a real accomplishment. Still I ride, no matter how tired or how much my seat bones or any of the numerous horse related injuries hurt. I ride. And I feel better for doing so.

The beauty I've seen because I ride amazes me. I've ridden out to find lakes that remain for the most part, unseen. Caves, dark and cold beside rivers full and rolling are the scenes I see in my dreams. The Granite Stairway at Echo Summit, bald eagles on the wing and bobcats on the prowl add to the empowerment and joy in my heart.

I think of the people, mostly women, I've met. I consider how competent they all are. Not a weenie amongst the bunch. We haul 40ft rigs, we back into tight spaces without clipping a tree. We set up camp. Tend the horses. We cook and keep safe. We understand and love our companions, the horse. We respect each other and those we encounter on the trail. We know that if you are out there riding, you also shovel, fill, wait and doctor. Your hands are a little rough and you travel with out makeup or hair gel. You do without to afford the 'sickness' and probably, when you were a
small girl, you bounced a model horse while you dreamed of riding a real one.

"My treasures do not chink or glitter; They gleam in the sun and neigh in
the night".

Contributed by member Lea Valentine

Listed below are two MFT's for sale--Please view all under "Related Links" column.

2009-12-03T18:01:00.008-06:00

Terry on Surprise in a cave at The Bolo Club

Terry on Twister at Big South Fork

Terry Messex has any of 3 nice MFTs for sale! There's Surprise (spotted gelding), Twister (sorrel gelding), and a new 4.5 year old chestnut gelding he just acquired out of Kentucky. All are papered MFTs. Terry says the new chestnut can be bought "right". Contact Terry for more info at 931-575-8307 or robbiemessex@att.net.

Thanksgiving Ride in The Smokies, East Tennessee

2009-12-03T17:21:00.007-06:00

Having enjoyed his Thansgiving holiday with family early, Terry Messex came with some of his TWH and SSH friends to ride out of Orchard Cove over the Thanksgiving weekend. Lea Valentine joined them on Friday for the weekend. Lea brought her new MFT buckskin gelding, Dollar. Deb and I, with our RMH friends, went over for a day ride with them all on Saturday. The weather was perfect, CLEAR and COOL! There was even a trace of snow along the Appalachian Trail at the top. We thank the LORD for His goodnes in allowing us to enjoy Friends, Fox Trotters, and Fall weather in the mountains of East Tennessee!

Ride at Normandy Dam, Central Tennessee

2009-12-03T16:55:00.003-06:00

Recently, Terry Messex met with Donna Porter, Ray Mauer, and their friend, Chris, at Normandy Dam for a beautiful ride.
This location is one of Terry's favorite day ride destinations.

2009-12-02T11:11:00.004-06:00

I

I

I saw some of this on the news last night, and then Sam sent me this article and the pictures.

I urge everyone of you to send an email to Representative Janis Sontany: rep.janis.sontany@capitol.tn.gov.
to encourage her and tell her that you stand behind her. I have heard that she has previously tried to get a bill passed that will protect horses and other livestock, and she couldn't even get it to the table for discussion.

The mug shots of Mr. Howland and his son show them both with a smile. Rep. Sontany made a comment that it should be the last time somebody can smile about doing this to animals.

Starved horses get attention of lawmaker
Bill would make abuse a felony
By Anne Paine . THE TENNESSEAN . December 2, 2009

State Rep. Janis Sontany of Nashville moved down the stalls one by one at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds on Tuesday, looking over 82 boney, near-starved horses and two mules.

Manes hung matted with cockleburs. Dehydration, misshapen hooves and wounds were evident.
One young mule, too weak to be revived, had died two days ago.
Two Cannon County men, from whose farm the animals were removed from last week, face misdemeanor charges.
Related

* Starving horses get help on Thanksgiving <http://www.tennessean.com/article/20091127/NEWS01/911270355/-1/ARCHIVE01>

Such horrific treatment of horses, or any confined animal, should be a felony, Sontany said, like it is when a dog or cat is abused.
She said she intends to file a bill in the coming legislative session to try to make it so.
"We no longer should give anyone a pass if they hold back food and water," Sontany said.
Farm animals were not included when a bill that addressed dog and cat abuse passed the legislature because of objections from farming community representatives, she said.
In this case, Charles Eugene (Gene) Howland and his son, Charles C. (Clint) Howland are scheduled for a court appearance Tuesday on misdemeanor animal cruelty charges, according to Cannon County Sheriff Billy Nichols. They are free on $1,500 bond each.
The district attorney is expected to file more charges, with evidence that the nonprofit groups taking care of the animals say they have gathered to document the neglect.
The Humane Society of the United States, working with United Animal Nations, estimates the cost of the rescue and work will run about $250,000, for which fundraising is needed.
Nichols thanked the groups and volunteers for taking on the grim rescue and recovery that was too large and pricey for his department alone.
About 40 horses were found last week inside a barn in atrocious condition, said Cannon County Detective Charlie Wilder.
Urine and manure lay so thick that he sank past his boots in it, he said. Ammonia stank so much, his lungs hurt.
"One dead horse was lying among the live ones," he said.
Other horses had been confined outside in an area with not enough grass for grazing, Sontany said.

"What do you think the outcome is going to be if you do that?" she asked.

Horses are improving
About 35 of the healthiest horses will be moved to an equine rescue group as early as next week, said Scotlund Haisley, senior director of emergency services for the Humane Society of the United States.
They'll be disbursed when they're ready and good homes are found.
Most won't be strong enough to be moved for three to four weeks, Haisley said.
Related

* Starving horses get help on Thanksgiving <http://www.tennessean.com/article/20091127/NEWS01/911270355/-1/ARCHIVE01>

"This started as a rescue operation <http://www.tennessean.com/section/videonetwork?bctid=52611918001> , and now it's a life-saving operation," he said. "It's miraculous that we've had as many survivors as we've had this far."
From the moment the horses arrived a week ago at the fairgrounds to clean individual stalls with food and water, they seemed to perk up, he said.
"We were in awe," he said, admitting he shed a few tears. "The resilience of these animals is outstanding."
During the first days of the rescue <http://www.tennessean.com/article/20091127/NEWS01/911270355/-1/ARCHIVE01> , volunteers had to help many horses stand up, though most are now staying on their own.
Donations for the horses and volunteers have continued to pour in, Haisley
said.
That has included getting the use of the fairgrounds, which has been indispensable, and veterinarian services, he said. More help is still being sought.
Tractor Supply Co. in Brentwood has contributed $5,000 and will give a truckload of Purina feed this week and a truckload of shavings for the stalls.
"To see what has happened with these animals is just painful," said John Wendler with Tractor Supply.

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Contact Anne Paine at 615-259-8071 or apaine@tennessean.com <mailto:apaine@tennessean.com> .

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Purchase this Photo

Rep. Janis Sontany checks on one of the horses whose plight spurs her to seek stiff state penalties for abuse and neglect of farm animals. (LARRY MCCORMACK / THE TENNESSEAN)

2009-12-01T08:41:00.003-06:00

Some of you may not have heard of the 84 horses rescued from Cannon County (Woodbury area).
Right now, they are needing everything from help mucking stalls to dollar contributions. I know many of us live too far away to show up and muck a stall, but every $1 adds up.
I'd like to know if anybody has suggestions, or the "know-how", on the avenues to take that will eliminate this type of treatment from so-called humans.
What is to prevent them, or people like them, to just start doing this over again? My heart is heavy with this type of cruelty.
Moira

Read On:

The US Humane Society has seized 84 horses from a Cannon County farm in TN and has taken them to TN State Fair Grounds in Nashville for immediate care.

They need supplies and volunteers to help care for these horses. The main need at this point is feed and hay (no round bales until the horses are moved away from fairground).

People interested in donating supplies or volunteering can contact the manager of the Tennessee State Fairgrounds at 615-862-8980 or email HSUS at tnhorserescue@hsus.org
From Humane Society:
In the coming weeks these horses will be moving further along the road to recovery at our emergency shelter. When our vets have decided they are stable enough for transport, we will start moving them out to rescue groups from whom the horses can then be adopted. As of now, we will not be doing direct adoptions from the emergency shelter. The rescues who take in these amazing animals will be publicized in the local media and on the HSUS Web site www.humanesociety.org and those groups will be handling adoptions.

Please ask anyone who is interested in fostering or adopting to e-mail at this address and their information will be forwarded to the HSUS employees in charge of placement and they will contact those interested directly with more information.

Email Address: tnhorserescue@hsus.org
Subject Line: Adoption or Foster

Regional Rides, Saturday, 14 Nov 2009

2009-11-14T22:52:00.003-06:00

Today Lea, Deb and I made a loop in the Smokies to Mount Cammerer. It was a perfect day for this ride! To see pictures go to http://www.ridinghappytrails.blogspot.com/.

Terry Messex met Donna Porter, Ray Mauer, and others at the Why Not Ranch in middle Tennessee for a nice ride. We may have some pictures from them to post in a few days.

Karen Gagliano is continuing to recover after her surgery which she had this past Tuesday. She'll be back in the saddle again soon for sure!

Let us know of your local rides and send pics if you can.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

Catoosa Ridge Saturday Ride, 11-07-09

2009-11-10T08:54:00.006-06:00

What a terrific time we all had who attended the day ride at Catoosa Ridge Stables this past Saturday. Karen Gagliano, our East Tn. Representative and President Sam, put together a fun day. Of course, the weather was just fall-perfect and NO RAIN, which helped a lot. I was trying to count in my head the number of riders we had, so let's just say there was a bunch of us. We all enjoyed seeing Heather from Orchard Cove and her mom, Freda, and her usual smiling face (actually, I think they were scoping out the place-ha). We were fortunate to have one of our members, Roger Wyatt, and two soon-to-be members, Johnny Burgess and Freddy Whittenburg, lead the way, as they live close to Catoosa and have ridden there many a time.
Upon arrival and saddling up, we all rode out with the great expectations . I was on my "Bear", who has ridden in groups many times before. Well, he was acting like a green horse and just seemed to "short circuit" about five minutes into the ride. Sam commented that his mare was acting a bit hyper and full of herself, and then Sarah McCoin said how her horse didn't want to load that morning, which was unusual behavior. Let me throw in here that the very next day James was talking to the president of the Warren County Saddle Club and she said they had about three horses at the show acting unusually weird. Perhaps it was something being carried in the horse wind signals?
James and I split off from the group to give Bear time to calm down, then met up with them again down by the creek. All had a bite to eat--Roger shared his chicken wings, which I thought was an excellent choice of something to pack besides a sandwich, especially since mine got soggy and for those like Debbie and Karen who didn't pack a lunch---guess they looked pitiful and Roger took heart. Terry was doing his usual stuff on the ride, including horse trading. Go figure~
Almost back, we rode/splashed through one nice-sized mud hole with standing water. I was wearing a white shirt--that shirt is now in the rag bin. Enough said on that one!
We all finished out the ride together and agreed it had been a great day with more fun time in the saddle.

Catoosa Ridge will be our meeting place in February 2010, and some of us plan to stay overnight, ride, etc. I'm sure Sam will be sending out info on that as time draws closer.

2009-11-10T06:56:00.005-06:00

Here are a few additional photos of our Fall Ride at The Bolo Club. James and I arrived on Thursday at noon, as did Karen and Lea. As we arrived at noon, a light rain was falling, and shortly after, Sam and Group that were already there came riding back to camp in rain slickers--not a great sign. However, the rain left and we had sunshine for an afternoon ride. The next day we headed out for a day ride with full sunshine. It was quite pleasant crossing creeks, riding up into the fall leaves, and awing at the huge rock formations.

Okay---here is a new rule: When mounting on the trail: One horse and rider per log:
We all found out the hard way.
After a brief rest stop at the "Pig Pen" (have to get trail boss of The Bolo Club, George, to tell you that story) some of us proceeded to remount our horses. I (unknown to me to be a very smart move), was first in choosing the nearest log and remounted. I believe it was Bob who went second. Karen went third. As Karen rode over to me she stated, "I think there is a bee bothering Sonny (her horse). Now, my hubby, James was attempting to remount our horse, Thunder. Well now---Thunder lived up to his name and then some. Lea shouted, "bees", and James had one foot in the stirrup---he jumped back (thank goodness 'cause I don't think the best rider would have held on), Thunder came bucking away from that log, and proceeded to put on a show that I've not seen rodeo horses hold a nickel to! Poor Thunder got popped six times, and James got it once. Being the great Fox Trotter horse he is, Thunder calmed right down, James chose to remount from the ground, and off we went.
Now, for those of you who don't think horses can remember. About two hours later we were coming back on another trail that hooked into the Pig Pen. I was behind James and Thunder as they rode past that log. Thunder turned to look at that one log, and proceeded to walk very cautiously past it.
It was good to see our campsite again. As usual, just a lot of good talking & clean-cut carrying on.

Fall Trail Ride 2009, The Bolo Club

2009-11-01T08:05:00.011-06:00

The Fox TROT Fall Trail Ride was a great success! Over the course of three days we had a total of 18 riders, most of whom were on Fox Trotters. The shortest ride lasted about an hour and the longest ride was about 5.5 hours. One of the trails was a combination of rocky steep up and muddy steep down, which provided a challenge to some horses and riders (and probably not the favorite ride of most). The shortest and most casual ride was through the pastures with a few water crossings. The longest and most scenic ride was rocky up and down, with open woods and beautiful views from along the cliff tops. Fox TROT is still learning how to find the right balance for all of our trail riders! I think the overall consensus was that all had a good time.

Don Trollinger went on his first trail ride after his fall back in July. Cynda Mathis went on her first Fox TROT ride as well. It is good to see both of these in the saddle. (I did not have my camera when we went out with Cynda. If someone has a picture of her on Velvet please post it or send to me for posting. Sorry, Cynda.) (There are no pictures of me either; I was always behind the camera!)

The fellowship after the rides was fun as well. We always find something or someone to tease or be teased. Of course, Terry is usually the instigator!

After a trail ride, the evening meal is always welcomed. The Mexican restaurant in Stevenson, Alabama was good for 2 nights, the prepared meals at camp were delicious one night, but the highlight was the "pot luck" on Friday night! Everything was soooo good! I think the pot luck should become a Fox TROT tradition!

Finally, I should comment about our host camp ground. The Bolo Club in Sherwood, (south central) Tennessee is a great place to camp and trail ride. This is a developing horse camp with much potential. Charles, the owner, was a gracious host who was very eager to meet our needs and was interested in our input as to the future development of the facility. George, the "Trail Boss", was a great trail guide leading us through the woods and along the ridges and cliffs. They have plans to make additions to the facilities and expand the network of trails. The "Pavilion" is second to none with comfortable couches and recliners, large tables and chairs, a big screen TV, and a warm log fireplace. The bath house is clean and very comfortable as well. Follow the progress of The Bolo Club at http://www.theboloclub.com/ and make plans to ride there with your other trail riding companions!

Sam Gerhardt
President, Fox TROT

US RIDER EQUESTRIAN MOTOR PLAN

2009-10-18T09:31:00.004-05:00

Just a food-for-thought note:

For those of you who are not familiar with "US Rider Equestrian Motor Plan" program, I encourage you to go to their website and read about them---and no, I don't "sell" the insurance or receive anything from them but excellent service.

Not only are you covered in your vehicle, but your horse trailer is also covered for roadside emergencies, etc. Other motor insurance plans ,which I have researched, will not cover a trailer you are pulling for flat tires, emergency overnight stabling for horses, etc. The coverage is for any vehicle, you as a member, is driving.

James and I have used US Rider twice in the past couple of years---just this past week made the second time. Thank goodness we weren't pulling horses, but it did involve our car and us. I just love it when you phone the emergency number, and the first thing out of the customer service's mouth is, "Are you and your horses okay?".

US Rider website is:
www.usrider.org

Everybody have a great week! Enjoy the sunshine!

Moira

AFFILIATES X-CHANGE

2009-10-16T02:08:00.008-05:00

When you receive your copy of "The Journal" this month, make sure you read Page 29.
There is an article on the Affiliates' meeting held in AVA last month. The remark by "Susan Lesner", which should have been "Sharon Lesner", (our FoxTROT secretary), is right on the point in addressing the fact "Trail riders want to feel included".

As an individual, NOW is your chance to be heard. AVA is asking for your input, stories, etc. At the very end of the article is what and where to submit.
However, as a FoxTROT member, please submit your ideas or suggestions to Sam or any of the BOD members. Submitting suggestions as a group sends a strong message to AVA about what we as an affiliate and trail riders would like to see.

Looking a bit further on Page 29, in case you don't recognize those two smiling MFT riders from the picture itself---our President Sam and trail-boss wife Debbie are featured on a brand new column, "Trails Across American and Beyond". The "Journal" is asking for contributions of pictures, stories, tips, etc.

Your voice and Our voices in these matters will count!

See you at The Bolo Club at the end-of-the month!!

Moira

2009-10-02T12:30:00.006-05:00

Well, James and I made an impromptu dash to Dale Hollow Lake yesterday and had one of the most gorgeous days of riding we have had in a long time. The water level was up the highest we have ever seen, and so we were able to walk our horses (when down at the level of the lake, of course) right out to the water with no problems. I was riding our new horse, Thunder. WOW! What a great horse. I had the most fun on him than I have had in a long time. We rode about 4 hours--with a couple of stops. Again, going on a Thursday, we had it all to ourselves. Unfortunately, the remains of the weekend riders were plentiful with cans, bottles, etc., strewn on some parts of the trails. Such a wonderful place to ride, and a few have to misuse it. But, on a brighter note---James and I will do our fall ride to see the leaves change---probably in November. I'll try to plan ahead of time to let everybody know, but I'm sure we will go during the week to miss the heavier traffic. Like I said before, it is a bit tricky finding this spot, so please do not hesitate to call James (you don't want my directions) for help in navigating back to the trail head.

BOD MEETING A SUCCESS

2009-09-29T08:50:00.003-05:00

Your FoxTROT BOD (Board of Directors) held their meeting on September 26th, 2009. Our President, Sam, tried to find a central "spot", which turned out to be in Lebanon at the infamous "Shoneys". Actually, we had a very private room, great service, and more so---a very successful meeting. As you see in the picture, we had our fearless leader President, Sam; fast note taker Secretary, Sharon; our important money-man, Treasurer Bill, and then two of our Reps--Karen of the East TN(once she found out we were not at the Ponderosa--hmmm) and of course, Terry(true to form) of the Middle TN.
Yours truly and James were invited because I attempt to take care of the BLOG. And, as spouses are always welcome, Debbie with Sam, Michael with Sharon, and Jimmie with Bill.
All FoxTROT members should be proud of all the time and effort their BOD members contribute. It is, after all, for US. Support them and our organization!
Plans are in the making---stayed tuned for a great FoxTROT year of 2010!!!!
See you at Circle E in October!

Moira

PHOTO SHOOT CALL for FOX TROTTERS!!

2009-09-27T09:48:00.007-05:00

Get your camera in action!
In this October 2009 edition of Horse and Rider, page 26, there is an article
"Calling Walkers, Trotters, & POA's!"

Take a photo of your Fox Trotter and submit to the magazine Horse and Rider for a chance to have your horse's conformation critiqued by their Conformation Clinic department. If chosen, your horse's photograph will appear in an upcoming edition of Horse and Rider. But with that given--you can have an insight view of what potential judges would see in your FT and then you, Best Of ALL, you can post your horse's picture as being in the spotlight and brag a bit on our Blog!

From what I've read and seen with past conformation articles---no horse is picked apart. Just good and bad attributes are given.
I could not find any time line on this, so I would just say, "the sooner the better".

For further info, tips on taking good pictures, etc.:

http://equisearch.com/horses_care/health/anatomy/conformation_clinic_photo_120808/

MFTHBA REPORT/NEW MEMBERS/FoxTROT BOD PLAN 2010

2009-09-18T07:49:00.003-05:00

Hello FoxTROT,

We are now at 57 members. Please welcome Lynn Thacker and Colby Ruf.

Michael and I attended the MFTHBA affiliate meeting in Ava which was held during the Celebration. I have attached that report also. I know not everyone is a member of the MFTHBA but since you all ride Foxtrotters, I thought you might have an interest in what other affiliates are doing.

I am excited about the upcoming ride at Circle E. The Board of FoxTROT is having a board meeting in Lebanon TN on September 26th. This year we just put it all together, now we are going to figure out how to keep each and everyone of you with us again in 2010. We will be updating you on our meeting and letting you know what we have planned in the future. We have some good ideas and now it is time to implement them.

Hope you all are well and if this rain stops, you get some good ride time in.

Warmly,

Sharon Lesner

Sec/ FoxTROT

--
Michael and Sharon Lesner
Serenity Farm Foxtrotters
www.serenityfarm.com

2009-09-13T09:38:00.000-05:00

FYI

You can click on any picture and it will increase to full size!

Enjoy!

CATOOSA RIDGE STABLES

2009-09-12T15:46:00.014-05:00

Well, James and I hit the trail again today. We met our Lea at Catoosa Ridge Stables where she was also meeting another horse friend. Turns out there was a good-size ride by the group "Women On The Edge". So, we joined right in, and yes, there were some men besides James riding along.

The Catoosa Stables turned out to be a really nice place. I'd recommend it to anybody from what we could tell with just a day ride. The place is immaculate, barns all looked very nice, restrooms with showers were nice and clean, huge meeting hall, pavilions, etc. The trails are all very well marked with a nicely color-coded map to check out where you are. We rode along the main trail, which goes down and follows the "creek", which is just beautiful and goes along forever. The trail has some up and down to it, but is very wide and not scary. The area had had a down pour the night before, so some of the trail was muddy, with only a few spots that were "mucky"--and that was just a few steps worth. So, if you go to ride there, and there has been rain and you don't want to deal with mud of any sort---just stick to the inner trails which meander through pine forests, etc.

Our MFTs, Bear and Rowdy, took the trails like champs, as usual. Lea was on one of her youngsters, a TWH mare, but we still rode next to her on some of the trail---truthfully, all of Lea's horses, TWH and MFT are terrific trail horses.
We did notice a few horses being not-so-sure-footed. Ahhh, just sit back and let your MFT do the walking!

Oh, at least along the creek trail, there are three or four places with picket lines, picnic table, etc. There are 50 miles of their own private trails, and then the Catoosa Wildlife Management Area is adjacent and offers some 90,000 acres of riding, but the trails are not marked very well (or at all), and the CWMA won't allow Catoosa Stables to mark them. So--if you want to ride in there---better have a good GPS (or a horse that can find its way back to the trailer), by the sound of it.

When driving there, make sure you use "Potato Farm Road" entrance. We've heard the other entrance is one that will destroy your brakes going down the hills, and tear-up your transmission going back up again.

It's only an hour drive from our home in Sparta, and I'm sure Lea could tell anybody how long it took her to get there from Knoxville area.

Another fun day in the saddle---I'm ready to go back and explore some more of the trails!

Moira

FoxTROT Members at KC RANCH

2009-09-08T09:18:00.008-05:00

As submitted by our member, Bob Mathis:

FOXTROT members Terry/Robbie/Bob/Cynda were joined by Lynn, Wesley, Curt, and Penny for a great weekend of trail riding at KC Ranch in Alabama. We were blessed with terrific weather (despite a few rain showers on Sunday) which allowed us to really enjoy the scenic trails of Alabama. Terry and Bob horses "Surprise, Velvet and Illusion" showed their best to our Saddle Horse trail mates. While they were focusing on their horse we were focusing on the great scenery. KC Ranch offers trails for the both the experienced and inexperienced riders - there is something there for all. Riding down the creeks was a new and extremely enjoyable experience for me as a first time horse owner. Only my second trail ride I was able to experience another first - riding in the rain.
Seems like there is always something new to be experienced each time I saddle up. Terry demonstrated the use of a shank bit which I was hesitant to experience outside the arena. I couldn't believe the difference it made in stopping on the narrow trails or going down the hills. I had always been trained that there was no need for the big shank but I came away with the understanding that it is not the bit but the hands that make the bit a useful tool. Soft hands and balanced seat and I found the shank bit really enhanced my trail riding experience. And, I found my horses were just as pleasant during and at the end of the ride.

Below, Terry is being taught by his horse, "Surprise" how not to jump a log. Surprise is a 5 year old MFT that is proving himself to be a real treat to ride on the trail.

As pictured above, I got my first chance to ride "Velvet" on this ride. I traded Surprise for Velvet so that my wife would have a more experience trail horse. Velvet was really dependable and I look forward to Cynda getting to ride her. Unfortunately she was laid up this week with a broken foot. Although she did try to "cowgirl up" and ride on a short ride. While she did get in the saddle and started the ride, the pain was too severe less than a 100 yards into the ride. We look forward to her joining the FoxTROT family at Circle E in Oct.

LABOR DAY WEEKEND AT "THE FOX DEN"

2009-09-07T17:33:00.018-05:00

Hello Everyone!

James and I just returned from a really fun time with Lea at Big South Fork.
Lea is working on her new Fox Den Retreat. Wow!!! What a cool place to have to just chill and enjoy your horses with all of the local fabulous trails.
Lea has just put in a barn with tack room---and graciously gave our two boys, Bear and Rowdy, first sleep-over rights.

Lea became our expert horse guide, and so after a hard day's work on the trail---I put on my chef's hat and we ate meals that would make a true ranch-hand "purty darn" jealous.
Then after stuffing ourselves, we enjoyed the playful tactics of "Jody", Lea's 4-month old Norwich Terrier.

James worked his magic on Lea's group of wonderful horses. Shortly after, Smokey decided to have one last scratch and roll, right in the hay, of course!

Cindy, watching her "Mom", Lea. Only we horse
lovers can truly appreciate that bond!

While trail riding we encountered a bear that only Lea witnessed, but as the bear went crashing through the woods, we believed her! Plus, the paw print sizes left were quite LARGE. Actually, we saw plenty of bear evidence along the trails---always makes one a bit on the alert side.
We had some back-flashes of BB guns, Deliverance, Chatty Cathy, and more---will just have to explain those one day while sitting around the campfire.

Because of Lea, James and I had the pleasure of meeting another of our FoxTROT members, Jamie Whiteaker, a well-known MFT breeder. Jamie is currently showing a couple of her mares at AVA. It is always so nice to be able to put a face to the name! In the short time we all talked, Jamie had quite a bit of input on our MFT organization and what sounds like, some great ideas. Jamie said she just really loved to trail ride---our kind of person!

As the weekend progressed, we found out, like Sam has said, Lea seems to know an endless amount of horse friends and acquaintances. "Everybody" knows Lea!!!!

All in all, it was a great Labor Day weekend.
Great memories with FoxTROT friends!

Moira

Renee's Pictures of Liz Graves at Orchard Cove Stables

2009-09-04T07:44:00.006-05:00

Here are some additional photos of our Heather and Lea, which Renee snapped, at the Liz Graves clinic and sent for us all to enjoy.

Orchard Cove Stables and Liz Graves Clinic

2009-09-01T09:54:00.008-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Well, James and I spent this past weekend at Orchard Cove Stables in Townsend. Most of you know that our member, Heather Webb and family own this great facility. Orchard Cove was hosting renown gaited natural horsemanship trainer, Liz Graves. It was a great time for all who attended. Liz has a very calm, natural, way of teaching and she broke off the group into two riders at a time. So, those who brought their horses to attend were able to get a very one-on-one with Liz, with each session lasting about an hour. It was very informative, and sometimes "eye-opening", as she pointed out the differences in each horse, and how, what, etc., to do to understand the gaits, etc. You might be surprised how some horses are so multi-gaited, they can really do them all---and it is okay. You just learn to bring out which gait is desired, and more so, which is easiest for the horse. Liz helped with saddle fit/info, bits, and other informative tack information. I could go on and on. If you get a chance to audit Liz's clinics or participate, you should do so. As in most clinicians---you are given so much of their hard-earned knowledge; however, if you don't agree---that's okay. You will still learn so much.

There was a young lady who had not ridden in some years, and had recently purchased a three year old Rocky Mountain. Liz first, as I personally agree, pointed out the horse's body has not finished growing (bones, muscles, etc.), and she should limit her riding time. BUT, when Liz was showing her how to get a response from her horse by turning, ever-so-slightly, her body, her leg movement, etc., to cue her horse to bend, turn haunch out, etc.---well, the young lady, Connie, just grinned. You could see the light bulb go off over her head. She just could hardly contain herself that with the simple steps Liz had shown her (and the rest of us), that her horse would respond so correctly.

Freda Webb furnished us with great lunches---I'm sure Heather didn't mind on that one as she was busy riding her mare! At one point we ladies were discussing jeans, and Freda got up to peer at the back-end of Liz's jeans---you had to have been there! Liz good-naturedly joined us in that one!

I have to add, Liz fully believes in James' profession as an Equine Physical Therapist. There was a big black TW that obviously was showing outward physical signs of needing that type of treatment. Liz asked James ( with an okay from the owner, of course) to work on the horse, and after doing so, that beautiful TW went back into the ring and was a completely different moving horse---all for the better. The crowd's reaction was wonderful, as Liz gave James the opportunity, on her time, to show just what his Total Body Technique can do. Even more so---James helped another horse.

After James and I had just arrived on Saturday, our member Lea and daughter Megan came rolling in with Lea's brand new trailer. The pictures in this slide show James and Lea trying to figure out the awning. At last---success!!
While auditing the class, we sat along with members Renee and Irene and plenty of fine horse people (we didn't hold it against them that they rode TW horses).

Saturday evening about six of us went on a bit of a trail ride. Lea made mention that with the time we were riding, the bears were active---oh goody!

We all agreed that we had a great time and made new horse acquaintances. Seemed like we all already knew each other and everybody seemed very comfortable. Of course, with a setting like Orchard Cove Stables and the Webb family---what more could you want!

Enjoy the little film clip below. I wish I had taken more pictures, but I was too busy enjoying everything.

See you guys at Circle E in October!

Moira

Trail Stories: Renee's Bear Encounter!

2009-08-08T18:09:00.004-05:00

I've been on most of the trails in the Tremont and Cades Cove area and those in between. ATTEMPTED to ride up to Gregory's Bald today but was cut off at the pass by a very surly mama bear! When she heard our horses both of her two cubs shot up a tree right next to Parson's Branch Road and she planted herself at the base of their tree. No amount of loud noises, whistles, hand clapping or off-key singing caused her to budge. She began growling and swatting the ground. No kidding. So my buddy and I grudgingly left her in peace and contented ourselves with a ride down Forge Creek Road. We'll return on a cooler day when the bears have begun their long winter's sleep . . . . According to a park ranger we spoke with last week in the Anthony Creek area, bear activity this year has been unusually high. I believe it!Happy Trails!Renee

("Double Click" on the pics above to better see the cubs!)

Trail Info: Trailer Space and Horse Water

2009-08-06T11:16:00.005-05:00

Renee, over in Maryville, suggested that we post info in our trail articles about trailer space at trail heads and water availability for horses on the trails. Her idea is great, so, here is a little catch up info from my experience for those who may be interested. If others of you can add to this please send a note to me or Moira, we will get it posted.

The Big South Fork has several trail heads for horses. Bandy Creek has a large area for trailers. LOTS of room. Cumberland Valley and Station Camp trail heads can accommodate 8-10 trailers. There is LOTS of space at Zenith Stables which is a short distance from the Zenith trail head. Not far from Zenith, there is a trail head near Honey Creek. Room for 6-8 trailers there.

Dupont State Forrest has two horse parking areas. The only one I've seen is the Lake Imaging trail head. There were at least 8 trailers there and room for more.

Trail heads in the Smokies that I know about vary. Big Creek sits right at the TN/NC line near us. It has room for 10 trailers at least. Greenbriar, between Gatlinburg and Cosby, has limited trailer space; 2, no more than 3, and get there early to beat the hikers. Tremont has room for several trailers, but get there early to beat the hikers. There are a couple of places for trailers along the road into Cades Cove. The parking at the Cades Cove campground area is tight. Room for 4-5 trailers, but must back in. Better be a good driver there! Plenty of room at the Abrams Falls parking area at the back of Cades Cove. Room for 3 trailers back at the Parsons Branch road on the backside of Cades Cove. Deep Creek, near Bryson City, NC, has room for 4-6 trailers. There are other horse trail heads in the Smokies, but these are the ones I know.

Harmon Den, NC, has plenty of room for trailers.

The Elk Gardens trail head (Virginia Highlands Horse Trail) up at Mount Rogers, VA, has room for about 3-5 trailers. There are other trail heads in the Mt Rogers area, but I'm most familiar with Elk Gardens.

There is plenty of water for horses available at Mt Rogers, Harmon Den, Big Creek, Deep Creek and Dupont State Forrest. Water availability on other trails in the Smokies just depend on which trail you choose. I recommend a good topo trail map and look for the little blue lines!

Hope that you all find this helpful!

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt,
President, FoxTROT

MFTs on the Market

2009-07-27T19:07:00.008-05:00

Jane Leatherland's gelding JESTER'S BANDIT. PRICE REDUCED!!!!!!!!

Roger's 5-yr. old mare.

Don Trollinger's gelding Natural High's "Boss".

Karen Gagliano's gelding Rambler's Golden Shadow J. aka "Sonny".

On this page, go over to "Related Links" in the left-hand column, and click on FoxTrot Classifieds.

Moira

WANTED: BOOTS FOR KIDS

2009-07-26T20:38:00.003-05:00

Copied from August 2009 Horse & Rider magazine.

"The American Paint Horse Foundation needs your help to provide new or gently used cowboy boots to young riders. The non-profit organization recently joined forces with Camp Carter YMCA in Fort Worth, Texas, to educate children about horses and get them in the saddle. Once Camp Carter's needs are met, the boot drive will be extended to help other groups.

Both children's and adult sizes are needed. Send your donated boots to: American Paint Horse Foundation, "Leg Up On Life", 2800 Meacham Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76137"

I could not help but pass this along to FoxTROT, even if it is sponsored by another breed! Sounds like a great cause. I love to get kids on horses! Let me encourage you to support this effort as you have opportunity.

Happy Trails,
Sam Gerhardt
President, FoxTROT

Dupont State Forrest, North Carolina

2009-07-26T20:14:00.006-05:00

On Saturday, 24 July "09, Deb and I met Denny and Beth Corn, with their son and his wife, Mike and Ricki (sp) for a ride at the Dupont State Forrest near Hendersonville and Brevard, NC. Not wanting to be held accountable if we got lost, Denny asked their friend, Amanda, to be our "trail boss" and she did wonderfully! Amanda rode her TWH while the rest of us were on our MFTs. Our ride lasted about 6 hours as we made our way on the trails along with the mountain bikes, hikers, baby strollers, and other horse back riders. (Great training for the horses!) The sights were beautiful! Transylvania County is called the Water Fall County of North Carolina and it is very obvious why! We enjoyed the opportunity to ride with some of our NC FoxTROT members and will do it again as soon as possible.

Happy Trails,

Sam Gerhardt

President, FoxTROT

Summer Trail Ride, Zenith at Big South Fork!!

2009-07-20T05:42:00.010-05:00

The FoxTROT Summer Trail Ride was a great success! Bruce and Sharon, owners of Zenith, have a nice place and were very hospitable hosts. Members and guests trickled in from Wednesday to Saturday to ride the trails of the Big South Fork out of Zenith Stables. The weather was pleasant allowing us to ride each day. Friday evening 11 of us gathered at Bacarras, a local German/American restaurant, for a nice meal. By Saturday we had a total of 15 Trail Riders! With the exeption of Deb and I, Terry Messex, and Heather Webb, we had a different group than attended the Spring Ride. We missed those who could not attend, but were encouraged to see new members active. One of the new members, Bob Mathis, went on his first official trail ride on his MFT! He acquired his horse from and has been training with Michael and Sharon Lesner. Upon his return to camp with a scratch or two and a few sore muscles he had forgotten he had, Bob said that he is no longer a trail riding virgin! He had a BIG SMILE on his face!! We'll look forward to seeing more of Bob and his wife, Cynda. Other new participant members were Donna Porter, Ray Mauer, and Donna's daughter, Brooke; Glenn Moody and Roger Wyatt. Terry, Roger, Glenn and Heather brought guests with them t o ride with FoxTROT. James and Moira Funk were not able to ride but came up to visit Friday afternoon. James "adjusted" a couple of horses and Moira delivered a fresh Rhubarb Pie!!! Don Trollinger came up but had an accident Thursday morning and had to return home. Be prayerful for him as he recovers at home. We'll look forward to seeing Don on the trail again. All in all, it seemed to me that everyone had fun enjoying one another and our MFTs!

Be sure to make your reservations now for the Fall Trail Ride to be held at the Circle E Guest Ranch, 28 October - 1 November!

Happy Trails, Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

East TN FoxTROT "Impromptu Rides"

2009-07-20T04:41:00.006-05:00

During June and July a few of us from the east side of the state have been able to gather for impromptu Saturday rides. We rode once at Mount Rogers, VA on the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail; and twice in the Smokys, once near Tremont and once up to Gregory Bald. Lea Valentine is always ready to ride and usually brings a friend along. She has brought a couple of UT Vet Students from Germany (Jule, pronounced "Eulah", and Katrina) with her on recent rides. They have now returned home with great memories of riding MFTs on the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail and in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. Our 2 oldest grandchildren, Chloe and Hunter, rode with us on one of the rides. Terry Messex, FoxTROT Central Rep, returned to Orchard Cove with friends to ride over July 4th, so we rode with his group. Glenn Moody and his friend, John, joined us on the ride to Gregory Bald. Enjoy the pics! Happy Trails, Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

Laurel Hill Ride

2009-06-09T19:58:00.002-05:00

Randall and Debra Hagan and Michael and Sharon Lesner rode their foxtrotters at Laurel Hill Horse Trail two weeks ago. Great place to ride.

You can do about a three to five hour ride that takes you over some fairly good size hills, some great trails along the beautiful stream that runs through the park and good places to water your horse. The horse trail heads are very primitive with no restrooms so come prepared.

We find it a good place to do some trail training on young foxtrotters and a great spot for a day ride. It is outside Lawrenceburg TN. Here is the PDF trail map and information for your review. www.state.tn.us/twra/gis/wmapdf/LaurelHillbw.pdf

Sharon Lesner

LIZ GRAVES "GAITED HORSE" CLINIC in August

2009-06-01T15:55:00.002-05:00

A note below from our FoxTROT member, Heather at Orchard Cove Stables. A plug from me--if you ever get a chance to go and stay with Heather at Orchard Cove, you are in for a very nice and comfortable time!

Hey FoxTROTters,

I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather and getting to ride some. I wanted to give everyone a quick reminder of a clinic coming up at Orchard Cove.

August 29-30, Liz Graves, who specializes in gaited horses, will be here. I really can't wait to meet and learn from Liz. This will be her first time here. The cost to ride is $250 which includes stalls and lunch ($15/day to audit). The maximum in the clinic is 14 riders. Wouldn't it be funny if we filled it all up with foxtrotters. Check her out at www.lizgraves.com

Come out to watch and learn or even ride. I hope to see you all in July at Zenith,

Heather Webb

Orchard Cove Stables

www.orchardcovestables.com

25 Miles/9 Hours...Memorial Day Ride!

2009-05-31T14:39:00.005-05:00

Deb and I, with our friend, Ron Munn, rode the Burnett Gap Trail and Brush Creek Trail in the nearby Cherokee National Forrest on Memorial Day. The ride was outstanding covering mountain ridges and river roads, but ended up being longer than planned! Probably some of the roughest trail we've been on, not sure we'll ride Brush Creek again. To view more pics of this ride go to http://www.ridinghappytrails.blogspot.com/.

Remember, Deb and I would be honored to host any of you FoxTROT members who want to come ride the Eastern TN and Western NC area. We have a full hook up site for your trailer and/or extra rooms in the house. I promise I won't take you on any longer or tougher ride than you want to do! Just contact us and we'll set aside some dates. Sam Gerhardt, President, FoxTROT

A DAY AT WORK??

2009-05-29T21:42:00.009-05:00

James walking away from this moment!
James working on Lilly--Karen still laughing~

Today James "let" (men never learn, do they ladies!) me tag along on an Equine Therapy call, which just happened to be with one of our own FoxTROT members--Karen and her very patient, understanding of the wife's horse habit, Howie Gagliano.

It was such fun talking with Karen and Howie. I had the pleasure of swapping horse stories and discussing numerous topics, including one of Howie's most favorite hobbies: bush-hogging with the 'ol Kabota on some of those steep embankments Tennessee is so infamous for having. Meanwhile, James did have to work his magic fingers on three horses while we were enjoying each others' company (we did let James get in a few words).

Karen and Howie have such a lovely and welcoming home for their eight equine pals and the rest of the clan--three dogs and not sure what else was around---too busy yakking!

What is most special is the fact we, more than likely, would never have met them had it not been for our MFT organization!!

Moira

Dale Hollow Lake

2009-05-22T10:29:00.020-05:00

James and I took off on one of those impromptu rides. Deciding on Dale Hollow Lake (not a hard choice for us), we loaded Bear and Rowdy and took off for what was to be a most enjoyable "perfect riding weather day" with our MFT's.

If you have the opportunity to ride at Dale Hollow, you won't be disappointed. The main trail is quite wide, and follows terrain of hills and then back along some of the water. We have never ridden the complete main trail out to the very end, but I do believe there is a really nice overlook when you get there. The trails that loop off the main one go more inland, with the terrain changing from tree limbs cascading gently over the trail, to sparse cedars.
If you can go during the week, you have a great chance of being the only riders on the trails (we had the whole place to ourselves). If you choose to camp, you will need your generator or you will have to really rough it. There are no facilities except for a couple of porta toilets in a couple of spots on the trail, no running water, power, etc. There is a small corral with about four stalls once you get into the trail head area. If you kept your horses there, you would not be able to hear or see them unless you pitched a tent right at the corral. But, the parking area has ample room for trucks and rigs and makeshift corrals.

Well, we did not see any bear this outing (not saying they didn't see us), no snakes; but we did scare up a turkey that took flight right in front of James and Rowdy---Ha! At least this time I was in back~~

One word of WARNING!
Don't go after heavy rainfall (we made that mistake last year). You spend your time sliding down descents and mucking your way back uphill.

Getting to the area of Dale Hallow Lake is an easy trek. Once you turn off the main highway to start getting back to the trail area and grounds it gets a bit tricky. You will think you have made a wrong turn; so please feel free to phone or email us for some tips on that matter.

Happy Trails,
James and Moira

Click the arrow for pictures!

SEFTA ST. Jude Trail Ride

2009-05-21T08:09:00.002-05:00

Here you go FoxTROT members---a chance to partake in a Beneficial Ride AND meet sister affiliate members of the SEFTA!

********************************************************************************************************************

South Eastern Fox Trotter Association (SEFTA), St Jude Trail Ride

In an effort to accommodate all the people that may want to come I chose the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, which connect to the Moses Cone trails off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trails are nice and wide and have beautiful views of the valley below.

If you would like information on the preserve go to www.blowingrockequestrian.com

St. Jude's Saddle Up ride will be: Saturday, August 29, at 10:00 AM.

Location: Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, Blowing Rock, NC

For reservations for camping and stalling your horse you can call 828-295-4700 or you can email them at info@blowingrockequestrian.com I have been told that if you state you are with a group St. Jude's Ride they will make every effort to make sure you are in the same area.

Camping: $25.00/night, per site (water and electric included) I have been told the best camping is by the new barn. BUT ALL CAMP SITES ARE ON FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS

Stalls: $25.00 per night (bring your own hardware, buckets, muck buckets & pitch forks)

For those of us that need a hotel there are plenty of hotels in the town of Blowing Rock, which you can access via internet at www.blowingrock.org/hotels.html .

Should you have any questions about the ride please feel free to call or email SEFTA President, TerryMcMichael, at 864-703-0990 or mcdicken@aol.com.

Going to AVA? Here's member Bill Adams offer!!!!

2009-05-19T15:14:00.001-05:00

I own two stalls at the show grounds in Ava, Mo. If anyone is going out for the Spring show or Fall Celebration and is in need of stalls I would like to rent them.

There will be some great trail riding!

I would rent them at a reduced rate for any of our members only.

Barn 11 which is one of the best locations on the grounds.

Thank You,

Bill Adams

Bill & Jimmie Ann Adams
946 Grandmere Rd.
Lawrenceburg, TN
931-762-8187 Work
931-762-0670 Home

MFTHBA First Annual National Trail Ride, Performance and Sale in AVA

2009-05-19T14:57:00.005-05:00

Here is a note from our MFTHBA Board Member, Joyce Graening:

Hi Affiliate Chapters,

I realize that some of you have changed presidents since this list was put together, but would you please pass this information on to the appropriate person to publicize these events to your affiliate. Thank you very much.

We are planning the first annual national trail ride and performance/versatility/trail foxtrotter horse sale to be held at the MFTHBA show grounds on July 23-25, 2009. We are planning to make it a very festive and fun event for everyone. The attached flyer will give you the planned events for the week-end. Also attached is a consignment form from Adam's Auction Company who will be conducting a very professional sale for us. All horses consigned must be at least 3 years old and under saddle. RV spots and stalls will be available. All contact information for both the sale and other events are found on the attached flyer. The MFTHBA will be receiving 1/2 the net profits from the horse sale.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact me. I hope that everyone will plan to come. We are trying to get some more fun events scheduled for the membership at the MFTHBA headquarters.

Thanks for helping to spread the word.

Joyce Graening
MFTHBA Board Member

FIRST ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAIL RIDE

& PERFORMANCE/TRAIL/VERSATILITY
FOXTROTTER SALE AT MFTHBA SHOWGROUNDS
AVA, MISSOURI
JULY 23-25, 2009

Join us for 2 days of trail riding:
July 23 Go on the popular and exciting ride to Brown's Cave
July 24 The ride will be the Grounds ride
Riders will meet across from the MFTHBA headquarters on Hiway 5 both days 8 a.m. There is plenty of parking and help with transportation to the trail head from the show grounds if needed.
For additional information, contact Paul Martin at 417 683-3069.

Join us on Friday, July 24 at 2 p.m. in the main arena for free instructional clinics on "modeling your horse", "preparing your horse and hints for the show ring", and "identifying and help with foxtrotter gaits" presented by Johnny Miller, Mike Owens, and Geno Middleton, with compliments from the MFTHBA Trainer's Committee.

Join us on Friday night July 23 for a BBQ dinner served by D & L BBQ*
Stay around and enjoy the music after dinner.

Join us on Saturday, July 25 at 10:00 a.m. for a great foxtrotter horse sale of approximately 100 registered Missouri Foxtrotters, 3 years and over, already under saddle. The sale will be held under a big tent rain or shine on the show grounds. Sale catalogs will be available after July 1 and consignment information can be obtained from

Adam Jokisch, Auctioneer at toll free 1 877 566-8751.

RV Spaces are available for $25 per night
Stalls are available for $15 for 1 night + $10 night for each additional night. Call Donna Watson at MFTHBA 417 683-2468 for reservations.

Concessions will be available Friday & Saturday.
*There will be a charge for the BBQ.
There will be a $5 gate charge Friday for those coming for the day, not staying on grounds.

Reponse to Sharon's email 5/18/09

2009-05-18T08:13:00.003-05:00

Wow!!

Forty Five (45) members and growing---that is just terrific! Here we thought we would struggle to get enough members interested to become an official affiliate of AVA---and look at us now!
It's nice to know that President Sam is keeping up with all of the Association's happenings, as we are now, a very interested participating group. Not being into showing, I know James and I use to "just read" the Journal, then kind of toss it aside. I think we take more pride, now, on what is transpiring.
Don't forget the summer July ride at Zenith Stables. Again, we are all there to help one another. Learn more about your MFT, enjoy the company of great people, and don't be shy.
Moira

TERRIFIC OPPORTUNITY TO INCREASE YOUR "GAIT" KNOWLEDGE

2009-05-06T17:24:00.006-05:00

Submitted by our Sharon; everyone reading this should jump at this opportunity!!

"Jennifer Bauer has ask me to send a note out to FoxTROT members. She
is going to do a monthly newsletter on gaited horse issues and she
will email to interested people. Please send your email address and
name to Sharon Lesner at lesners@gmail.com and she will forward them
to Jennifer. She is also going to put training videos out on YouTube
so when Sharon gets the information on that, she will let you all know."

As published in the "SouthEastern Equine" magazine:

Helping the Missouri Foxtrotter Gait- Tips from Jennifer Bauer
By Sharon Lesner

Going to a clinic and coming away with some workable, simple solutions to improve you
and your horse is terrific. After several clinic experiences with other clinicians, I risked
trying one more clinic. A clinic with Larry Whitesell and Jennifer Bauer.
In 2005, my husband Michael and I went to the Equine Affaire in Columbus, Ohio. This
particular year, there was a clinician named Larry Whitesell whose specialty was gaited
horses. Being Missouri Foxtrotter owners and trainers, we attended Larry’s presentation.
My husband was hooked. In a short time, Larry clearly outlined simple training or
equitation techniques that the average gaited horse owner could use to help their gaited
horse become more supple and responsive. We signed up for his clinics in 2007 after our
move to Tennessee. There we met Jennifer Bauer, Larry’s Whitesell’s partner. Jennifer
agreed to start several of our young horses and we were so pleased with the results. We
also took some private riding lessons from Jennifer. The one thing that stands out about
Jennifer is… that girl can ride! Her equitation is amazing.
Jennifer graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Equine. She
apprenticed with Larry Whitesell for several years working predominately with Paso
Finos. She remains at the Whitesell Gaited Horsemanship facility. Her business, Bauer
Classic Horsemanship focuses on training the gaited horse, equitation for the rider and
international clinic presentations.
Jennifer and Larry’s approaches are similar, particularly in training the gaited horse to
achieve lightness, softness and balance. It is a combination of natural horsemanship
concepts combined with classical dressage work. Jennifer relates that both teach
horsemanship but Larry’s focus is more the horse and it’s issues and her focus is the rider
and improving equitation. Jennifer makes suggestions to a rider that is clear and easy and
there is noticeable improvement quickly in both the rider and the horse.
At my clinic, there was another woman with a foxtrotter and I took my eight-year-old
foxtrotter mare that I recently purchased. She was a stop, go, turn left, right and back up
horse and that was about it. While at the clinic, Jennifer came out early in the morning
and did a private lesson for the other woman and I would hang around. One morning I
joined them. Jennifer made it seem easy and soon Delight, my mare was turning on the
forehand, the haunches, doing slow rollbacks and side passing.
She had a Missouri Foxtrotter mare in from Canada for some refinement and training. We
had time to talking about foxtrotters and her experience with them. I ask Jennifer what
she liked about Missouri Foxtrotters and the one thing she noted was their versatility and
endurance on the trail. She said, “Generally speaking, I have found them to have a
wonderful disposition and that they are intelligent and easy going”.
The mare she had in for training was in for gaiting and relaxation issues. Jennifer related
the mare was a smart mare. Her problem was she did not know where her feet were. She
had been to several trainers and her issues had not been corrected. Through groundwork
with Jennifer, she learned how to control her feet instead of tripping over herself. She
worked on suppleling and balance by taking her rear end around, crossing and then
engaging her hindquarters. Next they worked on bringing her front end through and
asking her front feet to crossover. “The mare eventually learned to move in balance with
her feet underneath her, not strung out behind her which created softness” Bauer related.
“It was calming for her and it reinforced that I could direct her feet to move anywhere I
wanted her to go” With the mare’s saddle work, Jennifer focused on suppleling and
improving her flexibility throughout her whole body, moving her rib cage and
hindquarters, not just her head and neck.
Bauer relates, “ Through that work, we brought all the pieces together, helping her
become soft, supple and in balance. This enabled her to engage her hindquarters, lift her
chest up and get off her front end, allowing her to get in a rounded frame.”
A rounded frame is desirable in the foxtrotter and that can be said also for any other
gaited breed. This frame can be accomplished with appropriate exercises in saddle and on
the ground and with good equitation. All goes hand in hand and when you learn to put it
all together, the results are amazing. Jennifer will be releasing a video in spring of 2008.
The content will include proper exercises and how to do them , lunging techniques that
teaches the horse to travel with the shoulder moving away but forward on the circle and
equitation suggestions. She discusses how all this affects the gait and why.
Often Missouri Foxtrotter owners focus on how to get their horse to gait if they are
having problems. Jennifer’s belief is a horse needs to learn how to become soft and
supple, leading to engagement and the gait will naturally follow ”Gait follows rhythm,
timing and balance. We have found this to be true in our experience with foxtrotters. First
they need to learn to be a horse, next learn how to travel correctly, move forward with
collection and the gait naturally follows. The horse is only half the equation though. By
working on classical or correct position, a balanced, soft rider allows the back of the
horse to round up, engage and gait. Jennifer’s focus in her clinics is more on the rider and
how their body position affects the horse. I found this refreshing. I learned that when
done correctly my body and energy messages to my horse made a world of difference in
how my foxtrotter moved. I am much more conscience of how my riding and balance
affects my horse. I also have learned how to talk to my horse through the bridle and my
leg cues. It has made a big difference in how I relate to my horse.
Jennifer has several clinics scheduled in 2008 and will be participating in some equine
related expos and events. She also takes in a few horses for training. To get more
information on Jennifer Bauer, please go to nfo@gaitedhorsemanship.com or visit her
website at www.gaitedhorsemanship.com.

TIP JAR

2009-05-06T11:47:00.008-05:00

Give us your "Tips" on anything related to horses, tack, trailer care/pulling, camping--you get the picture!

Okay--said my next tip would be cookies.
Anybody have a recipe that doesn't use sweet stuff like molasses??

BON BONS FOR YOUR EQUINE PAL:

Our horses just love these. I've given them as gifts to horsey friends and I've had nothing but good responses:

Preheat over to 300 degrees.

One 12 oz. bottle molasses
One 23 oz. jar applesauce
One cup rice bran cereal (or whatever you want to get rid of) and/or corn oil
6 cups old fashioned oats
3 cups whole wheat flour

Mix all ingredients together. More flour or oats can be added if dough is too wet or sticky to handle . Roll into small meatball sizes -(tip is to wet your hands when rolling)--kind of like a full tablespoon or two per treat. Place on ungreased cookie sheet (they won't melt down like a cookie, so you can place them kind of close). Bake in 300 degree oven for 1/2 hour or so--until firm---you don't want them to brown up and get hard. Cool and store in refrigerator.

You can use your imagination along with the basic ingredients---rolled oats, grated carrot, etc.

~~~~~~~~~~

HOMEMADE LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER:

In a spray bottle (or I do mine in a gallon jug at a time, then just add to the spray bottle)
Mix equal parts of:

cheap conditioner/creme rinse
white or cider vinegar
water

The conditioner helps keep the hair smooth for easy brushing and thickens the strands of hair. The vinegar gives the shine---I can still remember my mother rinsing her hair with vinegar long before conditioners came about.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sharon Lesner gave us this tip while sitting around the campfire at our Spring Ride:

Cheap but Just as Effective Bug Spray:

400 ml or 14 oz of Pine Cleaner ( the more Pine Oil, the better). Dollar General brand works great).
250 ml or 8 oz white Vinegar
Generous squirt of Blue Dawn dish soap (also at Dollar General).

Fill rest of squirt bottle with water to make about 800 to 900 ml of solution.

~~~~~~~~~~

OK Everybody---

It is TICK season. I've had horse owners tell me they don't find ticks on their horses, or not many; however, you have to "get up and personal" with your pal to really find those disgusting creatures. Of course, you can look over the obvious places--head, ears, neck, etc.; BUT, to really find 'em---you have to reach back and feel with your hand in the crooks and crannies of the, ahem, back end area. Those ticks love tight places, so all back in along the leg crease (probably not the correct terminology), the private areas, and yes, even lift that tail and look down the crease and anywhere you can see.

Now--on one's personal self, or two-legged friend, the first instinct is to grimace and pull. However, one of the correct procedures to insure retrieving ALL of that creature is to: Apply a glob of liquid soap to a cotton ball. Cover the tick with the ball, and swab it for about 15 seconds. The tick will come out on its own and be stuck to the cotton ball.
Sounds great--unless you are on your horse riding without the soap and cotton ball---then go for the natural instinct!

Maybe my next subject should be cookies!

Here's to swabbing!
Moira

AND

Here's to Tipping!

Moira

2009-05-04T15:58:00.000-05:00

Click on the Arrow to play the picture movie!

2009-05-04T11:32:00.002-05:00

Hello All!

Well, we certainly enjoyed our first official ride/gathering. With all of the rain going on in Tennessee, we lucked out with very little of the wet stuff. Our Fox Trotters gave us safe and sure-footed rides. FoxTROT riders were: Sam & Debbie Gerhardt; Bo, Amanda, and son, Hunter Gerhardt; Michael & Sharon Lesner; Terry Messex; Karen S. Gagliano; Lea Valentine; Don Trollinger; Dennis & Beth Corn; Samm Riggin, James & Moira Funk; Heather Webb, Renee Nasrollahi, our new member-Irene Shivers, and guests, Ron & Laura Munn.

Sam led our group rides, and even one with the expertise help of his young grandson, Hunter. Before riding out on Saturday, we spent time in the covered arena for some Fox Trotter tips. Sharon and Michael gave valuable input on saddle fittings, and then demonstrated ground work with your FT; Karen demonstrated her progress with ground work; James demonstrated his equine massage therapy and chiropractic adjustment techniques, and then there was the discussion on Natural Barefoot Trimming. James and I ride our horses with this trim, and they sailed right along those rocky trails.

The hospitality of Freda, Ed, and Heather--owners of Orchard Cove Stables, coupled with the beauty of the Smokies and our great camaraderie just lead to a fantastic time. For those of you who could not make this trip, try for our next ride---you won't be disappointed! President Sam and wife Debbie had their campsite set up like the camping pros they are. It was a perfect gathering spot with the addition of extra awning, cooking stove, etc., etc.

Then we had extra "tips & things" on the trip:

Sharon and Michael taught us the importance of "Going Green" with shower conservation.
Sam impressed us with his calm manner while hauling a stock trailer with eight horses over a bridge with an inch (?) to spare on each side and err, limited brakes.
Terry, it was rumored by Dennis, was to have a P.J. party planned--not sure about that one.
Debbie forgot to pack the peanut butter sandwiches---maybe Sam was in the dog house?
Samm R. lost her new rain gear, but luck was with her when eagle-eye James spotted the coat.
Dennis and Beth shared their newly-wed rat story---don't ask.

So you can see we have a little bit of good fun for everyone. Come on out and join us for the next ride. If you need help with anything, you've got a bunch of friends that are willing to assist you; or at the least, offer you some valuable (?) advice. Believe me; you will leave with a smile.

Hope to see everyone at our July ride!

Moira

Spring Trail Ride Pics

2009-05-04T09:01:00.001-05:00

Spring Trail Ride a Great Success!

2009-05-04T08:25:00.000-05:00

Shown here are a few of the 20 riders who paticipated in the Spring Trail Ride. This first organized ride for FoxTROT was held at the Orchard Cove Stables, http://www.orchardcovestables.com/, in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. Those who wanted to were able to ride every day, in spite of rainy forecasts. The MFTs, the trails, the facilities, the fellowship and the food were all wonderfull!