What can I say about the Brown Dog who likes to sit on the lounge and watch tv? Gotta love the Brown Dog!
Monday, August 29, 2005
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Hercule Poirot Saves the Day....
Yes, Agatha Christie's favourite character, Monsieur Hercule Poirot and his off siders, Captain ("By Jove!") Hastings and Miss Lemon (M. Poirot's secretary) have indeed saved the day and have sorted out which Stallion earned FF points under the guise of Dubai Excellence.
The following story is from AAP Breeding & Sports, Chris Stoltz:-
Wednesday, 24 August 2005: The Australian Stud Book has identified the mystery stallion who has been stanbing in Western Australia under the guise of Dubai Excellence as the imported entire Samood.
Michael Ford, Keeper of the Australian Stud Book, confirmed the identity of the horse wrongly exported from the UK to Evergreen Lodge in WA as Samood and not Dubai Excellence.
"It seems that the mix-up occurred when both stallions shared a paddock near Newmarket in England" Ford said.
"The wrong stallion left for Europe instead of going into quarantine for his trip to Australia."
According to Weatherbys, the English stud book authority, the blood typing profile of Samood matches that of the stallion currently in Western Australia.
Irish-bred Samood is a half-brother to the exciting shuttle stallion Cape Cross while Dubai Excellence is a half brother to ill fated Godolphin champion Dubai Millenium.
The search is now on by Weatherbys and Darley in the UK for the whereabouts of Dubai Excellence.
It would seem he may be standing at stud under the name of Samood.
Ford said the discovery of the mix-up had saved Australian breeding from a costly and embarrassing fiasco.
"The role of the Australian Stud Book is to ensure the integrity of thoroughbred breeding in Australia” Ford said.
“We have succeeded in preventing the 'mystery' stallion from covering mares and producing foals. "Breeders can be confident in our systems and the processes of the Australian Equine Genetics Research Centre."
I see that the word "fiasco" has been mentioned, I somehow dont think the word "fiasco" comes close to the situation at hand. Hmmmmm
Personally, I think I would of preferred Samood than DE anyway?
This mixup would be a huge embarrassment and somebody would still be standing somewhere in England with a whole lot of egg on their face and possibly newly unemployed.
The question still remains, "Where is Dubai Excellence?"
While the world ponders where this horse is, I have not been a well bunny today and succumed to an asthma attack last night, brought on Iam thinking from the dust in the Lucerne Chaff. (I know what some of you are thinking... No, I didnt stick my head in the bag)... I guess I will be well enough to go into the office tomorrow... Dam! (I missed out on my hot chocolate today).
Friday sees Adam the farrier back here at Massie Lodge to trim the yearlings feet. Lucky him and Evan. Oh, and some sad news... our Dodge colt has been sold. I will miss my little Ozman. However, he is going to a good home at Marburg, so I guess that's something. (Dam! I get too attached to these horses!!)
Let's hope that Jakey and Lenny dont kill themselves when the find themselves stuck in a paddock together!
On that note, I will bid you a warm goodnight until we meet again. Hoorooo!
Logic is the beginning of wisdom; not the end.
--Spock Star Trek VI Final Frontier
Helen.
The following story is from AAP Breeding & Sports, Chris Stoltz:-
Wednesday, 24 August 2005: The Australian Stud Book has identified the mystery stallion who has been stanbing in Western Australia under the guise of Dubai Excellence as the imported entire Samood.
Michael Ford, Keeper of the Australian Stud Book, confirmed the identity of the horse wrongly exported from the UK to Evergreen Lodge in WA as Samood and not Dubai Excellence.
"It seems that the mix-up occurred when both stallions shared a paddock near Newmarket in England" Ford said.
"The wrong stallion left for Europe instead of going into quarantine for his trip to Australia."
According to Weatherbys, the English stud book authority, the blood typing profile of Samood matches that of the stallion currently in Western Australia.
Irish-bred Samood is a half-brother to the exciting shuttle stallion Cape Cross while Dubai Excellence is a half brother to ill fated Godolphin champion Dubai Millenium.
The search is now on by Weatherbys and Darley in the UK for the whereabouts of Dubai Excellence.
It would seem he may be standing at stud under the name of Samood.
Ford said the discovery of the mix-up had saved Australian breeding from a costly and embarrassing fiasco.
"The role of the Australian Stud Book is to ensure the integrity of thoroughbred breeding in Australia” Ford said.
“We have succeeded in preventing the 'mystery' stallion from covering mares and producing foals. "Breeders can be confident in our systems and the processes of the Australian Equine Genetics Research Centre."
I see that the word "fiasco" has been mentioned, I somehow dont think the word "fiasco" comes close to the situation at hand. Hmmmmm
Personally, I think I would of preferred Samood than DE anyway?
This mixup would be a huge embarrassment and somebody would still be standing somewhere in England with a whole lot of egg on their face and possibly newly unemployed.
The question still remains, "Where is Dubai Excellence?"
While the world ponders where this horse is, I have not been a well bunny today and succumed to an asthma attack last night, brought on Iam thinking from the dust in the Lucerne Chaff. (I know what some of you are thinking... No, I didnt stick my head in the bag)... I guess I will be well enough to go into the office tomorrow... Dam! (I missed out on my hot chocolate today).
Friday sees Adam the farrier back here at Massie Lodge to trim the yearlings feet. Lucky him and Evan. Oh, and some sad news... our Dodge colt has been sold. I will miss my little Ozman. However, he is going to a good home at Marburg, so I guess that's something. (Dam! I get too attached to these horses!!)
Let's hope that Jakey and Lenny dont kill themselves when the find themselves stuck in a paddock together!
On that note, I will bid you a warm goodnight until we meet again. Hoorooo!
Logic is the beginning of wisdom; not the end.
--Spock Star Trek VI Final Frontier
Helen.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Teenagers - Who Would Have Them?
Of course I am not referring to my children, as I don’t have any! However, I do have horses, dogs and birds so I think I have my fair share of running after to do anyway, and picking up after them (…I’m now thinking back to this afternoon after Vera had been out all day on mowing duties and the amount of crap that she left around the place…).
Hmmm… the yearlings… talk about trouble!
First of all, let’s start of with the girls (Lily, Shorts and April). The 3 of them decided that they didn’t like their feed anymore and refused point blank to eat any of it. They also turned their noses up at the biscuits of hay they were given because it wasn’t the top of the line stuff that we have. They were not sick, no siree, they just decided that “they didn’t like it”. I stood there with Evan looking at the 3 young ladies and wondered what the heck the matter was with them. They weren’t sick, oh no, it was a case of “We don’t like this, and we are not going to eat it” (add the tone of a whingeing teenager who is given something different for dinner and Iam sure you will know what I mean here!).
We thought we would do a test and gave the boys next door the feeds that they didn’t want… went down in a flash (and in fact you could add to that in a whingeing tone, “Aww mum, can I’ve some more?”).
Ok, the boys didn’t drop dead from the feed, so there was nothing wrong with it. So for the girlies for the next day or so, they were given the primo hay, the top of the line stuff. Which I might add, they ate under sufferance. This was all too much for me today and I had to find out what the hell was the matter with the girls and the feed that we were giving them.
Test Number 1. I gave them a feed bowl of Lucerne Chaff. It was real nice stuff too. Ok, that seemed to pass the girlies test. They would now eat Lucerne Chaff.
Test Number 2. I gave them a separate feed bowl with some Breed Performer in it. Hmm. Ok that seemed to pass their discerning palates.
Test Number 3. I gave them another feed bowl with some Oaten Chaff in it. The 3 of them turned their nose up and walked away. “Nope, don’t like it… yukky, poohy.. take it away.” Hmm. I gave it to the boys and they loved it.
For some reason they did not like, and would not touch the Oaten Chaff. I must say at this point in my story that the girls have been eating Oaten Chaff since they were by their mum’s side sharing her dinner. So, why all of a sudden do they not like it? Why do the boys still scoff it down like it’s the last meal they are ever going to get??
To be perfectly honest, I have absolutely no idea. However, I must say that they certainly got into their dinner tonight, minus the oaten chaff. Strange, strange children aren’t they?
Now for the boys, and Lenny in particular.
On my way down to worm the dry ladies today I looked up and saw everything was as it should be…. Caramel picking out in her paddock, Vera with her head in the feed shed…. And the boys… Lenny had decided that he needed a new toy and picked on the hose that was lying just outside his paddock. He was having a good old time with it; throwing it, pulling it, running around with it. I called out to the silly bugger and of course he ignored me. I found his soccer ball and threw it at him. WOW! He thought this was great fun, another toy to play with….forget the hose and he picked up the ball by the rope on the side and started bashing himself on the head with it! Then he decided that he would try to kick it and ended up branding Jakey. I laughed and laughed. While the hose is no longer able to be used (hmmm), I had to laugh at the fact that he had the brains to pick it up and use it as a play toy. I think that horse thinks way to much for his own good.
Anyone want a colt?
Tomorrow sees the start of the working week for me… yippee! Not. Looks like I will have to drown my sorrows with a Hot Chocolate tomorrow!
Thirty-five is when you finally get your head together and your body starts falling apart.
--Caryn Leschen
Helen.
Hmmm… the yearlings… talk about trouble!
First of all, let’s start of with the girls (Lily, Shorts and April). The 3 of them decided that they didn’t like their feed anymore and refused point blank to eat any of it. They also turned their noses up at the biscuits of hay they were given because it wasn’t the top of the line stuff that we have. They were not sick, no siree, they just decided that “they didn’t like it”. I stood there with Evan looking at the 3 young ladies and wondered what the heck the matter was with them. They weren’t sick, oh no, it was a case of “We don’t like this, and we are not going to eat it” (add the tone of a whingeing teenager who is given something different for dinner and Iam sure you will know what I mean here!).
We thought we would do a test and gave the boys next door the feeds that they didn’t want… went down in a flash (and in fact you could add to that in a whingeing tone, “Aww mum, can I’ve some more?”).
Ok, the boys didn’t drop dead from the feed, so there was nothing wrong with it. So for the girlies for the next day or so, they were given the primo hay, the top of the line stuff. Which I might add, they ate under sufferance. This was all too much for me today and I had to find out what the hell was the matter with the girls and the feed that we were giving them.
Test Number 1. I gave them a feed bowl of Lucerne Chaff. It was real nice stuff too. Ok, that seemed to pass the girlies test. They would now eat Lucerne Chaff.
Test Number 2. I gave them a separate feed bowl with some Breed Performer in it. Hmm. Ok that seemed to pass their discerning palates.
Test Number 3. I gave them another feed bowl with some Oaten Chaff in it. The 3 of them turned their nose up and walked away. “Nope, don’t like it… yukky, poohy.. take it away.” Hmm. I gave it to the boys and they loved it.
For some reason they did not like, and would not touch the Oaten Chaff. I must say at this point in my story that the girls have been eating Oaten Chaff since they were by their mum’s side sharing her dinner. So, why all of a sudden do they not like it? Why do the boys still scoff it down like it’s the last meal they are ever going to get??
To be perfectly honest, I have absolutely no idea. However, I must say that they certainly got into their dinner tonight, minus the oaten chaff. Strange, strange children aren’t they?
Now for the boys, and Lenny in particular.
On my way down to worm the dry ladies today I looked up and saw everything was as it should be…. Caramel picking out in her paddock, Vera with her head in the feed shed…. And the boys… Lenny had decided that he needed a new toy and picked on the hose that was lying just outside his paddock. He was having a good old time with it; throwing it, pulling it, running around with it. I called out to the silly bugger and of course he ignored me. I found his soccer ball and threw it at him. WOW! He thought this was great fun, another toy to play with….forget the hose and he picked up the ball by the rope on the side and started bashing himself on the head with it! Then he decided that he would try to kick it and ended up branding Jakey. I laughed and laughed. While the hose is no longer able to be used (hmmm), I had to laugh at the fact that he had the brains to pick it up and use it as a play toy. I think that horse thinks way to much for his own good.
Anyone want a colt?
Tomorrow sees the start of the working week for me… yippee! Not. Looks like I will have to drown my sorrows with a Hot Chocolate tomorrow!
Thirty-five is when you finally get your head together and your body starts falling apart.
--Caryn Leschen
Helen.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Oh No!!
We have finally made our way through all of the wood that our friend Michael has cut for us.... so it was back down to the hay shed this morning with the axe and another abled-body helper (me) to get wood for the fire. While the days are getting a bit warmer (when we dont have the pleasure of the winds), the nights are still cold and we still really need to have the log fire burning (not to mention the fact that the heater in the study still goes on when I park myself in front of the computer- obviously still a prerequisite for the dogs as they still want to get right inside it!!?).
Paul, our trainer rang this morning, for a few reasons but to tell us about what happened to him over the weekend. Paul had "After Graham" (he calls him the "big horse") in a Toowoomba and had booked a jockey to ride him. Ok, well you would think that that was fine and all was organised. Not so.
Come the day of the races (for those that dont know, Toowomba holds twilight racing with the first race starting at about 4pm), Paul heard from the Jockey that she coudnt make it (was indisposed) and then went looking for another to replace her. The next Jockey who got the ride and accepted it, then rang and said they couldnt do it (indisposed again). At the eleventh hour before the race, Paul got a replacement to ride the "big horse".
Apparently 6 Jockeys rang to say they were indisposed at Toowoomba last Saturday night and couldnt ride.
Interesting isnt it?
Ok, lets have a look at Queensland racing last Saturday.
64 races were held last Saturday in and around Queensland including all metro and provincial (also including the picnics).
683 Horses were accepted to race on Saturday, including:-
Beaudesert - 52 acceptances
Paul, our trainer rang this morning, for a few reasons but to tell us about what happened to him over the weekend. Paul had "After Graham" (he calls him the "big horse") in a Toowoomba and had booked a jockey to ride him. Ok, well you would think that that was fine and all was organised. Not so.
Come the day of the races (for those that dont know, Toowomba holds twilight racing with the first race starting at about 4pm), Paul heard from the Jockey that she coudnt make it (was indisposed) and then went looking for another to replace her. The next Jockey who got the ride and accepted it, then rang and said they couldnt do it (indisposed again). At the eleventh hour before the race, Paul got a replacement to ride the "big horse".
Apparently 6 Jockeys rang to say they were indisposed at Toowoomba last Saturday night and couldnt ride.
Interesting isnt it?
Ok, lets have a look at Queensland racing last Saturday.
64 races were held last Saturday in and around Queensland including all metro and provincial (also including the picnics).
683 Horses were accepted to race on Saturday, including:-
Beaudesert - 52 acceptances
Chinchilla - 42 acceptances
Cunnamulla - 43 acceptances
Doomben - 89 acceptances
Gold Coast - 102 acceptances
Innisfail - 64 acceptances
Mackay - 63 acceptances
Mt Isa - 34 acceptances
Muttaburra (where?) - 50 acceptances
Thangool - 27 acceptances
Toowoomba - 117 acceptances
God thats a lot of racing and a hell of a lot of horses!!! Now, where are all the jockeys coming from? Goodness knows how they managed at Toowoomba with 117 acceptances and 6 Jockeys being ill. Perhaps they all went out the night before and ate together? Hmmm.
There is an accute lack of abled-bodied, enthusiastic Jockeys in Queensland (as we have seen over the last few weeks). How can both of the Jockeys that accepted to ride the Big Horse, all of a sudden become indisposed - I mean, both of them? Why do they all have an "attitude"? I guess if you are Glenn Boss, you can do what you dam well please, but these lot that we have had contact with are no where near the same position as Bossy is in.
The "I wont ride Babies", or "I wont ride cause that horse is being sold", or "I cant be bothered to turn up" attitude sucks big time and certainly makes it difficult for new trainers to establish themselves in new areas.
I think the key words here are : Enthusiasm & Motivation (or lack-there-of).
Where is the hunger and passion to succeed with these kids? I guess its just a job to them and it shows.
The Japanese riders happy to ride for their masters (is that the right word?) and will ride whatever they are given, however, that programme seems to have fallen down by the wayside as it was found out that they were being taken advantage of and were overworked and given bad conditions to work in. This programme has now been reeled in and heavily controlled by a body located on the Gold Coast. Which is fair enough I think.
I believe that Queensland racing is in a very precarious situation with it's Jockeys. Am I the only one who is thinking this? Hmmm
On to something more light hearted.....lets forget about that for the minute!
Stallion "X"
I read today on all the favourite forums today that the search for Dubai Excellence continues and the intrigue into just who flew into Western Australia continues. Will the real Dubai Excellence please come forth? lol
Perhaps they need to call Hercule Poirot, Captain Hastings and Miss Lemon??
A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs, jolted by every pebble in the road.
--Henry Ward Beecher
Helen.
God thats a lot of racing and a hell of a lot of horses!!! Now, where are all the jockeys coming from? Goodness knows how they managed at Toowoomba with 117 acceptances and 6 Jockeys being ill. Perhaps they all went out the night before and ate together? Hmmm.
There is an accute lack of abled-bodied, enthusiastic Jockeys in Queensland (as we have seen over the last few weeks). How can both of the Jockeys that accepted to ride the Big Horse, all of a sudden become indisposed - I mean, both of them? Why do they all have an "attitude"? I guess if you are Glenn Boss, you can do what you dam well please, but these lot that we have had contact with are no where near the same position as Bossy is in.
The "I wont ride Babies", or "I wont ride cause that horse is being sold", or "I cant be bothered to turn up" attitude sucks big time and certainly makes it difficult for new trainers to establish themselves in new areas.
I think the key words here are : Enthusiasm & Motivation (or lack-there-of).
Where is the hunger and passion to succeed with these kids? I guess its just a job to them and it shows.
The Japanese riders happy to ride for their masters (is that the right word?) and will ride whatever they are given, however, that programme seems to have fallen down by the wayside as it was found out that they were being taken advantage of and were overworked and given bad conditions to work in. This programme has now been reeled in and heavily controlled by a body located on the Gold Coast. Which is fair enough I think.
I believe that Queensland racing is in a very precarious situation with it's Jockeys. Am I the only one who is thinking this? Hmmm
On to something more light hearted.....lets forget about that for the minute!
Stallion "X"
I read today on all the favourite forums today that the search for Dubai Excellence continues and the intrigue into just who flew into Western Australia continues. Will the real Dubai Excellence please come forth? lol
Perhaps they need to call Hercule Poirot, Captain Hastings and Miss Lemon??
A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs, jolted by every pebble in the road.
--Henry Ward Beecher
Helen.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Another Pleasant Valley Sundaaaay...
I dont know why I have that song in my head... from the Monkeys - obviously my subconscious dragged it out of one of the filing cabinets and felt that it wanted to be heard again? Actually today has been a glorious day, even though I got up out of bed at 6.50am and headed straight to clean and wash the floors, the bathroom, the toilet and the kitchen... not to mention Evan's office desk (the dining room table) that was chockablock full of industry papers, magazines, receipts and the like.
Then it was into the kitchen to whip up something yummy for morning tea, put a pot of coffee on and to eat some breakfast all before our visitors arrived. (Just call me Superwoman!!)
Today we had a visit from Paul and Cannington's owners who wanted to see their boy, doing what he does the best - just being a horse! Canno has certainly wound down since being here... and has relaxed (mentally) down 100% with his mate, Little Jo and of course, Charliefarley. Next it was off to the local pub, The Darling Downs Hotel, for a quick bite to eat and a few drinkies and then back to business.
Business of course was spending some time down the back paddock with the preggie girls... have some stomach watching time and give my Nanna a bit of a brush (as she is malting!). I am happy to say that all stomachs were very active this morning, especially Sweetie's... I actually put my hand under Nanna's tummy and had some contact with bubs... who was very receptive when I rubbed mum's tummy. Nanna of course was not bothered with this and remained asleep (since there was nothing to eat). Maddie's tum is nice and active with an ETA of 24 September. It was good to see them all doing flip flops - makes me feel good to know that all Bubs' are alive and well .
Stallion "X"
I found a little bit more information regarding Stallion "X" who was shuttled out in the guise of Dubai Excellence. I am fascinated to know how this could happen? Surely the owners and the people who put Stallion "X" on the plane knew that the stallion was Stallion "X" and not Dubai Excellence?
Courtesy of AAP Racing and Breeding, Chris Stoltz posted this last Saturday:-
Saturday, 13 August 2005: Hair samples will be DNA tested in a bid to establish the identity of the stallion imported to Australia under the name of Dubai Excellence.
A Sydney laboratory will carry out DNA testing on 30 hair samples from the "unknown" horse who has been at stud in Western Australia for six months under the name of Dubai Excellence.
The horse was imported by Western Australia Turf Club chairman Ted van Heemst to begin stud duty at Evergreen Lodge near Bunbury in WA this spring but it has now become apparent the wrong stallion was sent from England.
"We are 99.9 percent sure that he is not Dubai Excellence," van Heemst admitted after the news broke that the import may be a "ring in".The "real" Dubai Excellence is by High Honour from Colorado Dancer and is a half brother to ill-fated Godolphin champion Dubai Millenium.
Heemst said it has become apparent a similar looking horse to Dubai Excellence went into quarantine last December and was then shipped to Australia.
Perth bloodstock agent John Chalmers was the first to alert van Heemst to his doubts about the identity of the new stallion at Evergreen Lodge.
Chalmers had negotiated the deal to import Dubai Excellence and was concerned that when the stallion arrived in WA he was a bigger individual than the "original" and also carried no signs of tendon damage evident when inspected in the UK.
Further concerns arose when a scan could not detect the arrival's microchip identification implant.
The Australian Stud Book has advised van Heemst that blood tests confirmed that the horse residing at Evergreen Lodge, while probably by Highest Honour, could not be a son of the mare Colorado Dancer.
Van Heemst had accepted 80 bookings to his new stallion at fee of $3850 for the coming season.
Sorry but I do find this situation, while serious really, most amusing as surely there are many checks and balances that something like this should never happen? Surely the people who packed Stallion "X" up to be shipped over knew who the horse was?
I somehow think that there is more to this than meets the eye! Surely all shuttlers are checked and double checked before they are put on a plane? And, if this has happened once, who says that it hasnt happened before and wont happen again for that matter? I will wait with baited breath to find out the latest installment!
Well its 4pm and time to go and feed the hooved ones... who are impatiently walking up and down their fences wondering what the hell has happened to their meal!!
A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your step as you walk the tightrope of life
Then it was into the kitchen to whip up something yummy for morning tea, put a pot of coffee on and to eat some breakfast all before our visitors arrived. (Just call me Superwoman!!)
Today we had a visit from Paul and Cannington's owners who wanted to see their boy, doing what he does the best - just being a horse! Canno has certainly wound down since being here... and has relaxed (mentally) down 100% with his mate, Little Jo and of course, Charliefarley. Next it was off to the local pub, The Darling Downs Hotel, for a quick bite to eat and a few drinkies and then back to business.
Business of course was spending some time down the back paddock with the preggie girls... have some stomach watching time and give my Nanna a bit of a brush (as she is malting!). I am happy to say that all stomachs were very active this morning, especially Sweetie's... I actually put my hand under Nanna's tummy and had some contact with bubs... who was very receptive when I rubbed mum's tummy. Nanna of course was not bothered with this and remained asleep (since there was nothing to eat). Maddie's tum is nice and active with an ETA of 24 September. It was good to see them all doing flip flops - makes me feel good to know that all Bubs' are alive and well .
Stallion "X"
I found a little bit more information regarding Stallion "X" who was shuttled out in the guise of Dubai Excellence. I am fascinated to know how this could happen? Surely the owners and the people who put Stallion "X" on the plane knew that the stallion was Stallion "X" and not Dubai Excellence?
Courtesy of AAP Racing and Breeding, Chris Stoltz posted this last Saturday:-
Saturday, 13 August 2005: Hair samples will be DNA tested in a bid to establish the identity of the stallion imported to Australia under the name of Dubai Excellence.
A Sydney laboratory will carry out DNA testing on 30 hair samples from the "unknown" horse who has been at stud in Western Australia for six months under the name of Dubai Excellence.
The horse was imported by Western Australia Turf Club chairman Ted van Heemst to begin stud duty at Evergreen Lodge near Bunbury in WA this spring but it has now become apparent the wrong stallion was sent from England.
"We are 99.9 percent sure that he is not Dubai Excellence," van Heemst admitted after the news broke that the import may be a "ring in".The "real" Dubai Excellence is by High Honour from Colorado Dancer and is a half brother to ill-fated Godolphin champion Dubai Millenium.
Heemst said it has become apparent a similar looking horse to Dubai Excellence went into quarantine last December and was then shipped to Australia.
Perth bloodstock agent John Chalmers was the first to alert van Heemst to his doubts about the identity of the new stallion at Evergreen Lodge.
Chalmers had negotiated the deal to import Dubai Excellence and was concerned that when the stallion arrived in WA he was a bigger individual than the "original" and also carried no signs of tendon damage evident when inspected in the UK.
Further concerns arose when a scan could not detect the arrival's microchip identification implant.
The Australian Stud Book has advised van Heemst that blood tests confirmed that the horse residing at Evergreen Lodge, while probably by Highest Honour, could not be a son of the mare Colorado Dancer.
Van Heemst had accepted 80 bookings to his new stallion at fee of $3850 for the coming season.
Sorry but I do find this situation, while serious really, most amusing as surely there are many checks and balances that something like this should never happen? Surely the people who packed Stallion "X" up to be shipped over knew who the horse was?
I somehow think that there is more to this than meets the eye! Surely all shuttlers are checked and double checked before they are put on a plane? And, if this has happened once, who says that it hasnt happened before and wont happen again for that matter? I will wait with baited breath to find out the latest installment!
Well its 4pm and time to go and feed the hooved ones... who are impatiently walking up and down their fences wondering what the hell has happened to their meal!!
A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your step as you walk the tightrope of life
--William Arthur Ward
Helen.
Helen.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
The Dentist...
Raul, our local Horse Dentist (from "Equine Answers"), paid Massie Lodge a visit this morning and saw our old girl, Vera (Ophira - and the current Victor V Mower) who was having a few problems with eating her feed. Now all of you who know Vera, know that she sometimes isnt the easiest girl to deal with and I was pleasantly surprised to see how well she took to Raul and let him do his job without any problems. I had the pleasure (??) of being able to feel the "before" and "after" in Vera's mouth and I have to say that it was quite, um.. a different experience putting my whole hand in her mouth...and then having a green slimy hand to deal with!
Both Evan and I have been a little bit concerned about our spritely 19 year old of late as she has been not herself and according to Chris who had a quick look at her on Thursday said that her heart murmur seems to have worsened since initial diagnosis last year. Still, she is my girl and we will make her happy and keep her comfortable while we can. Speaking of Chris coming to Massie Lodge on Thursday.
Thursday was microchipping day for the not so little ones. Now how upset am I that I missed that occasion?
Meanwhile, back at Massie Lodge, Evan struggled with the little ones as the local Army base at Oakey decided that they had to fly their helicopters right over Massie Lodge at about 100ft in the air. One can understand why the yearlings were a handful with that sort of noise overhead. Iam now the lucky owner of one contact number for the Army base and will certainly be getting in contact with the Duty Officer to complain. (Yes, its hard to imagine that I would be a "complainer" isnt it?).
Ok, enough about that... a few bits and pieces before I go and have some lunch .......
Throb (aka Lightning Angel) went up to Pauls last week. The transport company (yes the one we love!) said that they were coming Thursday but turned up unannounced on Wednesday when they said that they were too busy. Go Figure.
Sunny (2yo Filly by Kbenjar out of Miss Independence), has been moved to the stables of Fred Adams at Toowoomba who will prepare her for the Ready to Runs.
Susie (aka Star Ferry) pulled up fine from her hit out.
Helen (aka me), is profoundly exhausted.
Evan (aka Mr. Gallopers) is in need of a break after wrestling with the yearlings during the microchipping process on Thursday.
I try to take one day at a time, but sometimes several days attack me at once.
- Jennifer Unlimited
Helen.
Both Evan and I have been a little bit concerned about our spritely 19 year old of late as she has been not herself and according to Chris who had a quick look at her on Thursday said that her heart murmur seems to have worsened since initial diagnosis last year. Still, she is my girl and we will make her happy and keep her comfortable while we can. Speaking of Chris coming to Massie Lodge on Thursday.
Thursday was microchipping day for the not so little ones. Now how upset am I that I missed that occasion?
Meanwhile, back at Massie Lodge, Evan struggled with the little ones as the local Army base at Oakey decided that they had to fly their helicopters right over Massie Lodge at about 100ft in the air. One can understand why the yearlings were a handful with that sort of noise overhead. Iam now the lucky owner of one contact number for the Army base and will certainly be getting in contact with the Duty Officer to complain. (Yes, its hard to imagine that I would be a "complainer" isnt it?).
Ok, enough about that... a few bits and pieces before I go and have some lunch .......
Throb (aka Lightning Angel) went up to Pauls last week. The transport company (yes the one we love!) said that they were coming Thursday but turned up unannounced on Wednesday when they said that they were too busy. Go Figure.
Sunny (2yo Filly by Kbenjar out of Miss Independence), has been moved to the stables of Fred Adams at Toowoomba who will prepare her for the Ready to Runs.
Susie (aka Star Ferry) pulled up fine from her hit out.
Helen (aka me), is profoundly exhausted.
Evan (aka Mr. Gallopers) is in need of a break after wrestling with the yearlings during the microchipping process on Thursday.
I try to take one day at a time, but sometimes several days attack me at once.
- Jennifer Unlimited
Helen.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
The EKKA
I have to admit to you that Iam a closet show goer. During my youth in Sydney, every year it was essential that you went to the Royal Easter Show and a little later on, participating in the Dog Showing at the Show. There is just something about it (no its not the fact that judging is not impartial or its more important who is at the end of the leash, lead etc. than what animal is on the other end!), its the atmosphere and the excitement of getting your dog (cat, horse, guinea pig, snail etc) ready and being part of it.
I read through with interest today the results of the thoroughbred judging that took place on Tuedsay. I was instantly amazed with the results of the Stallion classes:-
Class: 3 - Stallion at Stud, 6 years old and over
1st - Meteroic Rise (Celestial Dancer / Impavida)
2nd - Dust in the Wind (Sir Tristram / Abbaye)
3rd - Centro (Century / Ease and Comfort)
Class: 4 - Stallion, 3 years old and not over 6 years old
1st - Templety (Hennessey / Frolicking)
I read through with interest today the results of the thoroughbred judging that took place on Tuedsay. I was instantly amazed with the results of the Stallion classes:-
Class: 3 - Stallion at Stud, 6 years old and over
1st - Meteroic Rise (Celestial Dancer / Impavida)
2nd - Dust in the Wind (Sir Tristram / Abbaye)
3rd - Centro (Century / Ease and Comfort)
Class: 4 - Stallion, 3 years old and not over 6 years old
1st - Templety (Hennessey / Frolicking)
2nd - Irish Royaliane (Irish Royal / Monolaine)
3rd - Unamed
Class: 5 - Stallion, 3 years old and over
1st - Front Door (Clang / Via Maris)
Class: 5 - Stallion, 3 years old and over
1st - Front Door (Clang / Via Maris)
2nd - What a Tale (Piccolo / Tell a Yarn)
3rd - Mail Train (Success Express / Rebecca Gay)
Class: CHAMPION THOROUGHBRED STALLION
Meteroic Rise
Class: RESERVE CHAMPION THOROUGHBRED STALLION
Dust in the Wind
Meteroic Rise served 2 mares last year and Dust In The Wind served 10. Our Libby (Miss Independence) is currently in foal to Dust in the Wind - who I might add has some good runners around Queensland at the moment. I also see that there is not a Shuttler Sire amongst them all.
Another interesting note is that the Champion Thoroughbred Gelding went to .... Skinjite by that most unpopular sire, Kinjite. An interesting thought just came to pass.... out of all our yearlings (and we have 6), the Kinjite colt, Lenny, is the one who will probably make a racehorse. Hmm. something to think about there.
Iam very happy to see that Nick Nolan's stallion, Dust in the Wind was up there amongst the winners; Nick would have to be one of the Darling Downs' own gentlemen.
Well done everyone, good to see you out there having a go....
Life. Be in it today!
Helen.
Class: CHAMPION THOROUGHBRED STALLION
Meteroic Rise
Class: RESERVE CHAMPION THOROUGHBRED STALLION
Dust in the Wind
Meteroic Rise served 2 mares last year and Dust In The Wind served 10. Our Libby (Miss Independence) is currently in foal to Dust in the Wind - who I might add has some good runners around Queensland at the moment. I also see that there is not a Shuttler Sire amongst them all.
Another interesting note is that the Champion Thoroughbred Gelding went to .... Skinjite by that most unpopular sire, Kinjite. An interesting thought just came to pass.... out of all our yearlings (and we have 6), the Kinjite colt, Lenny, is the one who will probably make a racehorse. Hmm. something to think about there.
Iam very happy to see that Nick Nolan's stallion, Dust in the Wind was up there amongst the winners; Nick would have to be one of the Darling Downs' own gentlemen.
Well done everyone, good to see you out there having a go....
Life. Be in it today!
Helen.
*Yawn*....
I should be in bed... but because I had an idea for a short story that sort of hit me at 9pm, I had to stop and write it down and then became all involved in it... and of course one thing leads to another that leads to another and its now 11.02pm! So, *Yawn* ...
I am a bit of a night owl as you can see by some of the times on this blog... still when a creative urge hits you... who am I to deny it? (I mean, goodness knows when it will come around again).Actually, I should of hit the sack after watching some TV this evening... as I will hate this blog in the morning and will think that my idea for a short story sucks.... lol Oh well...
As most of my close friends will know, Iam an avid reader and will continue on with a series of books just so that I get the full picture of a story. However, after reading some of the books that are the latest installment in a saga, I have come to the conclusion that the authors (and all well known), have continued on the story, one book too many and have in fact spoilt their sagas.
Maybe I should of been an editor? I know that if I was, half of the books that I have just read would not have been published!!!
*Yawn* I need to get to bed...
The hunt for someone to prepare Sunny continues with a few different Toowoomba trainers in mind.. both Evan and I have been pretty disappointed with the choices that some of the people have made and feel that they have cut off their nose to spite their face! Although I think to myself that the people in mind obviously only have half a brain... think about it........
Each trainer likes to think that their owners will bring a continual string of horses into their stables.
More Horses = More Work = More Money = More Race Riding = More Winners = More Horses = More Work = More Money = More Race Riding = More Winners and so on ....
a very simple equation I would think that even the most basic minded person could work out in their heads. Obviously not. The comment, "There is no future with this horse" (i.e. being the horse up for sale) is correct, HOWEVER, the comment was obviously made without any further thought processes behind it and obviously no idea about the "More Horses = More Work..... etc. etc."
What can I say? (shruggs shoulders). Unless something happens in the next few days, Sunny will have to be withdrawn.
*Yawn* No more bitching tonight....
Tomorrow sees an early morning visit from Chris the vet to finish off the yearlings identification process... and unfortunately I will be sitting in my office at Telstra... how come I am missing out on all the fun stuff????
Well, enough of this, I really do need to get some sleep.... *yawn*
Life. *Yawn*
Helen.
I am a bit of a night owl as you can see by some of the times on this blog... still when a creative urge hits you... who am I to deny it? (I mean, goodness knows when it will come around again).Actually, I should of hit the sack after watching some TV this evening... as I will hate this blog in the morning and will think that my idea for a short story sucks.... lol Oh well...
As most of my close friends will know, Iam an avid reader and will continue on with a series of books just so that I get the full picture of a story. However, after reading some of the books that are the latest installment in a saga, I have come to the conclusion that the authors (and all well known), have continued on the story, one book too many and have in fact spoilt their sagas.
Maybe I should of been an editor? I know that if I was, half of the books that I have just read would not have been published!!!
*Yawn* I need to get to bed...
The hunt for someone to prepare Sunny continues with a few different Toowoomba trainers in mind.. both Evan and I have been pretty disappointed with the choices that some of the people have made and feel that they have cut off their nose to spite their face! Although I think to myself that the people in mind obviously only have half a brain... think about it........
Each trainer likes to think that their owners will bring a continual string of horses into their stables.
More Horses = More Work = More Money = More Race Riding = More Winners = More Horses = More Work = More Money = More Race Riding = More Winners and so on ....
a very simple equation I would think that even the most basic minded person could work out in their heads. Obviously not. The comment, "There is no future with this horse" (i.e. being the horse up for sale) is correct, HOWEVER, the comment was obviously made without any further thought processes behind it and obviously no idea about the "More Horses = More Work..... etc. etc."
What can I say? (shruggs shoulders). Unless something happens in the next few days, Sunny will have to be withdrawn.
*Yawn* No more bitching tonight....
Tomorrow sees an early morning visit from Chris the vet to finish off the yearlings identification process... and unfortunately I will be sitting in my office at Telstra... how come I am missing out on all the fun stuff????
Well, enough of this, I really do need to get some sleep.... *yawn*
Life. *Yawn*
Helen.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Bright and Early
is the time that we got up this morning to feed the charges and then head up to Toowoomba to see the girl have a 900m jump out. Lots of news... lets start with.........
Susie ... (Yes that is her to the right, but not wearing jeans... that's Paul fixing up the tape on her back legs). Susie ran a credible 4th in her jump out today, remembering that she is not a sprinter and that she is not race fit yet. She didnt pull or struggle, in fact she just seemed to settle. She didnt knock herself, so we are hoping that this is a bit of a confidence boost for her. Only little problem was that she figited in the barrier and didnt jump with the rest of them, which is most unlike her. She came back to the stables hardly blowing at all and Paul was happy with the way she handled herself. Not sure about the jockey that rode her though.... hmmm. The girl that I have previously wrote about rode Susie and might of well of been a sack of potatoes strapped to her back. Hmmm she wont be riding Susie in a race start. Next for Susie is another jump out in 2 weeks. Susie is a work in progress and Paul is taking his time with her, which is definitely fine by us. We know that if for some reason racing is not Susie's bag, then at least she will have been given every opportunity and that's all you can ask, isnt it? Throb (Lightening Angel) will go up to Paul on Thursday.
Adam the farrier came yesterday and did the 4 mare's feet and took off Cannington's shoes so that he can go into the paddock with the other geldings. Adam is back again on Monday to do the 6 yearlings (lucky him!). You would have to ask yourself why you would want to be a farrier? It would not be easy money by any stretch of the imagination. Especially when you have a colt like Lenny to trim.
Vicky (Vetiole) - Do you remember my Vettori filly Vicky that we sold on to Peter and Angela Verrydt down at Taree? (I think if you go to the start of the blog you will read about Vicky). A very happy ending there (or should I say start?). Vicky ran 2nd in her first trial at Taree and only missed out by a very small margin for first place. So much for her being too slow... Vicky has always been the little horse that could... and she will prove all her critics wrong too.
Congratulations must go to Mr. Moss (Mosso to his mates) and of course to Paul (lol) who won a Class 4 at Toowoomba last Saturday night. Wooohooo! All good news isnt it?
Vera (Ophira) now retired and living to good life is now the resident mower here at Massie Lodge (the Victor V model).
I sit here and stare out over the computer screen and can see Charlie, Throb and Joseph all asleep in Rosie's paddock... I look out over to the left and I can see Havachat, Jules, Snooks and Moofa all waiting for their dinner (already?) with Lenny watching Vera doing the mowing... doesnt that boy ever rest? Jakey and Oz are off out of sight together.... talk about the Bobsey twins.
In the background I can hear Evan on the phone talking to a trainer in Beaudesert about Sunny...
I look down at my shirt and see that Nanna has "nanna'd me" and has put all her white hairs over my navy shirt! Talk about a picture she was today.... covered in mud from head to toe from the dam.
Bessie Merle is asleep in front of the heater with her head on my foot. Millie is under the desk snoring. The brown dog is at the door of the study in a coma with his legs twitching (Run Lancey run!).
As much as this is very hard work and we both collapse in a heap at the end of the day , I wouldnt be doing anything else.
Life - get into it!
Helen.
Susie ... (Yes that is her to the right, but not wearing jeans... that's Paul fixing up the tape on her back legs). Susie ran a credible 4th in her jump out today, remembering that she is not a sprinter and that she is not race fit yet. She didnt pull or struggle, in fact she just seemed to settle. She didnt knock herself, so we are hoping that this is a bit of a confidence boost for her. Only little problem was that she figited in the barrier and didnt jump with the rest of them, which is most unlike her. She came back to the stables hardly blowing at all and Paul was happy with the way she handled herself. Not sure about the jockey that rode her though.... hmmm. The girl that I have previously wrote about rode Susie and might of well of been a sack of potatoes strapped to her back. Hmmm she wont be riding Susie in a race start. Next for Susie is another jump out in 2 weeks. Susie is a work in progress and Paul is taking his time with her, which is definitely fine by us. We know that if for some reason racing is not Susie's bag, then at least she will have been given every opportunity and that's all you can ask, isnt it? Throb (Lightening Angel) will go up to Paul on Thursday.
Adam the farrier came yesterday and did the 4 mare's feet and took off Cannington's shoes so that he can go into the paddock with the other geldings. Adam is back again on Monday to do the 6 yearlings (lucky him!). You would have to ask yourself why you would want to be a farrier? It would not be easy money by any stretch of the imagination. Especially when you have a colt like Lenny to trim.
Vicky (Vetiole) - Do you remember my Vettori filly Vicky that we sold on to Peter and Angela Verrydt down at Taree? (I think if you go to the start of the blog you will read about Vicky). A very happy ending there (or should I say start?). Vicky ran 2nd in her first trial at Taree and only missed out by a very small margin for first place. So much for her being too slow... Vicky has always been the little horse that could... and she will prove all her critics wrong too.
Congratulations must go to Mr. Moss (Mosso to his mates) and of course to Paul (lol) who won a Class 4 at Toowoomba last Saturday night. Wooohooo! All good news isnt it?
Vera (Ophira) now retired and living to good life is now the resident mower here at Massie Lodge (the Victor V model).
I sit here and stare out over the computer screen and can see Charlie, Throb and Joseph all asleep in Rosie's paddock... I look out over to the left and I can see Havachat, Jules, Snooks and Moofa all waiting for their dinner (already?) with Lenny watching Vera doing the mowing... doesnt that boy ever rest? Jakey and Oz are off out of sight together.... talk about the Bobsey twins.
In the background I can hear Evan on the phone talking to a trainer in Beaudesert about Sunny...
I look down at my shirt and see that Nanna has "nanna'd me" and has put all her white hairs over my navy shirt! Talk about a picture she was today.... covered in mud from head to toe from the dam.
Bessie Merle is asleep in front of the heater with her head on my foot. Millie is under the desk snoring. The brown dog is at the door of the study in a coma with his legs twitching (Run Lancey run!).
As much as this is very hard work and we both collapse in a heap at the end of the day , I wouldnt be doing anything else.
Life - get into it!
Helen.
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