Winter 2021

Explore Your Winter 2021 IH Magazine!
Hello IH Members and friends!
This issue feels especially timely as it encourages us all to embrace change, plan ahead, and cherish the journey — both in the saddle and out.
What’s Inside?
• A heartfelt and practical piece from yours truly on what we might be grateful for six months from now – and yes, Pie and Blondie are both part of the story!
• Meet inspirational Paralympic coach Clive Milkins in a thought-provoking interview about what really matters in horsemanship
• Explore the world of Equine Assisted Therapy with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
• Nutritionist Clare MacLeod shares expert guidance on feeding older horses for longevity
• Saddle fitting from a fresh perspective with IH trainer Nicole Golding and master saddler Kay Humphries
• Sandra Williams offers a thoughtful recipe for successful horsemanship
• Dive into our IH Debate: Is sportsmanship always compatible with horsemanship?
• Celebrate member achievements with the launch of the very first IH Awards
• Success stories, member photos, and a lovely ‘Meet a Member’ feature on the ever-wise Pauline Ling
Why You’ll Love This Issue
With the darker mornings and all that delightful mud, this is the season where connection and motivation can sometimes dip. But this issue is here to lift your spirits and bring new perspective. Whether it’s the inspiring journey of Sophie Christiansen and Clive Milkins, or Angela Hobbs’ reminder that it’s never too late to shift direction, you’ll find something to keep you grounded and moving forward. For those looking to set some positive goals this season, the brand-new IH Awards offer just the nudge you need. And for the thinkers among us, the articles on therapy, mindfulness, and our evolving relationship with our horses provide plenty of fuel for warm fireside pondering.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
04 – Kelly Marks: My World
Kelly reflects on winter as a time of preparation and growth, shares thoughts on the importance of small consistent actions (apple stretches included!), and introduces her new pony Blondie.
06 – Letters and Feedback
Our wonderful members share stories of transformation, farrier breakthroughs, and the power of patience and the right people.
07 – IH News
Celebrating Leanne Roger’s marathon success, new research on turnout, and updates on equine welfare legislation.
08 – Meet a Member Special: Pauline Ling
A fascinating chat with lifelong horsewoman and breeder Pauline Ling — filled with wisdom, Yorkshire wit, and a bit of Harvey Smith nostalgia.
11 – Members’ Photos
Eight lovely photo entries from members and their horses — from eventers to therapy ponies and happy hacking in the snow!
12 – Are You Ready for a Change?
Business mentor Angela Hobbs shares empowering reflections on reinvention, menopause, and the importance of women supporting women.
14 – The Big Interview: Clive Milkins
A compelling interview with para-dressage coach Clive Milkins on redefining ‘ability’, training with empathy, and what winning really means.
18 – Introducing the IH Awards!
Find out how to earn your IH rosettes through kind and consistent horsemanship, and meet our first proud recipient.
22 – Feeding Your Veteran
Equine nutritionist Clare MacLeod gives practical advice on feeding older horses for health and longevity.
24 – Equine Assisted Therapy
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores the role horses play in therapy, and the scientific perspectives behind it.
27 – What You Need to Know About… Saddles
IH Trainer Nicole Golding and master saddler Kay Humphries help you look beyond saddle fit to the bigger picture.
30 – Centaur Biomechanics Webinar
Insights from a recent IH webinar on biomechanics and movement in horse training.
32 – Recipes for Successful Horsemanship
Sandra Williams offers a practical framework for training success — think less pressure, more partnership.
34 – Mindfulness Map for the Festive Season
Tips and exercises to stay centred during the busyness of Christmas — for you and your horse.
36 – IH Debate: Sportsmanship and Horsemanship
Members and trainers weigh in — can the drive to win always coexist with kind horsemanship?
38 – Success Story: Autumn for All Seasons
A story of patience and perseverance with a mare named Autumn who finally finds her place.
40 – Spotlight On: Melanie Nagele
We shine the light on IH member Melanie, her passion for learning, and her work with young horses.
43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation and trust between horses and humans — the heart of what we do.
Navigation Tags
dressage, saddle fitting, veteran horse, nutrition, IH Awards, mindfulness, menopause, winter. biomechanics