What an amazing year we have all experienced. Right about now we should all be preparing for the NCHA Futurity but instead, many of our show horses are in the paddock spelling. I have to admit, spelling the Futurity horses is going to be good for them in the long term. Many become sore from the intensive training leading up to the Futurity. The extended time before showing can only be a benefit. I remember the Futurity we held in September due to the Equine Flu as being one of the best ever. Horses were fresh, very solid and it was warm in the AELEC arena making a great atmosphere for spectators. I know this October, all going well, will be again one of the best Futurities in years.
Yulgilbar Quarter Horses may not be showing at the moment, but it doesn’t mean the horses aren’t being ridden and trained. Sid Myer and his family have been riding at Elgee Park while they have been in lock down. Secretly, I think Sid has really enjoys being able to ride regularly. Robert Mackay has been breaking in some of the yearlings. Because the yearlings at Elgee Park are so well grown, it is standard policy for the yearlings to be broken in the autumn prior to turning two years old then spelled. The Metallic Cat colt from Spin’s Gypsy Queen was first on the list and he has started exceptionally well. He has a Metallic Cat temperament with his Mum’s pizazz.
Todd Graham has leased the Yulgilbar Quarter Horses Tamworth training property, Argyle. He is currently taking a break from training horses for the public but hoping to use Argyle’s indoor arena to give lessons and clinics when the Covid 19 restrictions are eased. Yulgilbar Quarter Horses is happy to announce that Todd has agreed to contribute to Yulgilbar Quarter Horses as a consultant. His years of experience as a professional trainer, past NCHA board member and president is valued by the Yulgilbar team and will assist future projects.
We’ve had to take a break from our horsemanship and cutting schools at Elgee Park but hopefully we can start up again in the late spring. Keep in touch by visiting our web site where we will post Yulgilbar Quarter Horses news. Alternately, phone our Stud manager, Steve Allen 0448 897 508, for horse sales and school updates.
Stay well, Gail Ritchie