Gusty Wind Acres Riding School, Inc.

The Gusty Wind Autumn Barn Party

2011-10-25T10:35:00.002-04:00

We had a barn party October 15. First we dressed the horses up in costumes. Then we played some games. In one game the kids had to guess what Peek A Boo had taken on her vacation with her friend Jola. Then we played a horse breed identification game. Last we had a pot luck dinner. What fun!

Peek A Boo and mother dressed for a trip!

Valentine and Laura & Luke and Mira (hula dancers)

Buddy and Cincinatti,
Reo and Emily (King and Queen)
Buddy Horse and Lindsay (Dorothy and the Scarecrow)

Mira and Luke

Valentine, Cincinnati and Reo

Angelina and Ginger; Just out of bed

Buddy and Lindsay

Hula Dancers

Kathleen "Zorro" and Jazz

Rebecca and Jola with their stowaways from the Galapagos Islands

Julie and Dallas (Cowgirls) Lindsay and Buddy, Angelina and Ginger (pajama girls); Emily and Reo (Queen and King)

Add caption

Arlene on Peek A Boo and Rebecca on Jola

Reo Looking at a spider hanging from Cincinatti

Emily and Reo dressed as a Queen and her King

Lindsay and Buddy

Close up of Reo and the Spider

Kathleen's New Horse

2011-10-25T10:06:00.005-04:00

Congratulations Kathleen for getting a new horse! Her new horse is named Jazz. He is 7 year old half Thoroughbred and half Andalusian gelding. He is trained in Dressage and has a good start jumping.

Barn Party Scheduled for October 15-3:30 pm

2011-09-24T18:55:00.002-04:00

The barn party will be an opportunity for the Gusty Wind students and boarders to dress up in costumes and ride the horses (horse must have costumes too!). Then we will be having a Pot Luck dinner. Please eat your lunch because it takes us a while to get to the eating part.

Gusty Wind Logo Garments Available

2011-09-24T18:53:00.000-04:00

Anyone who would like to get the Gusty Wind Acres logo on a shirt or other garment, please let management know. The availability is being extended until Wed of this week. You provide the garment..we provide the silk screening--cost $6.00/garment.

2011-08-05T08:46:00.000-04:00

Gusty Wind Acres Hunter Schooling Show postponed until July 30, 2011

2011-07-22T11:36:00.000-04:00

Due to record high temperatures we have decided to postpone the hunter show scheduled for tomorrow until next Saturday, July 30! I hope lots of people can come then! Our email is gustywindacres@yahoo.com if you need more information you can email me there. So sorry for the change!

Horse Show Saturday

2011-07-20T07:12:00.001-04:00

There is a horse show Saturday..hunter at our place. Please be getting your entries in.

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School Hunter Schooling Show, July 9, 2011

2011-07-12T14:50:00.001-04:00

Lakin and Buddy

An under saddle class (Walk Trot Hunter Hack)

Sherri and Sahara

Laura and Buddy

An undersaddle class

Dressage Show Added to the Schedule!

2011-04-29T12:37:00.000-04:00

The Dressage show is August 27th. Mrs. Janice Behrick will be judging.

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School, Inc.

Schooling Dressage, Combined Test & Horse Trials

Website:http://www.gustywindacres.blogspot.com

2011

August 27

Judge: Mrs. Janice Behrick

ASTM approved helmets & riding boots are required to be worn and fastened at all times while any rider is mounted.

Current year’s negative Coggin’s test is required for all horses brought onto the grounds.

No visiting dogs permitted.

Awards: 5 Ribbons per class; High Percentage for each Dressage level

Send a SAS postcard for riding times or contact via email.

Call 724-668-2591 or email gustywindacres@yahoo.com for more information.

Dressage & Model

16. First Level Test 1

1. Lunge Line WT Equitation 17. First Level Test 2

2. Lunge Line WT Suitability 18. First Level Test 3

3. WPDA Walk Trot 19. First Level Test 4

4. USDF Introductory Test A 20. Rider’s Choice First and Second Levels

5. USDF Introductory Test B 21. Second Level Test 1

6. Suitability WT 22. Second Level Test 2

7. Suitability WTC 23. Second Level Test 3

8. Equitation WT 24. Second Level Test 4

9. Equitation WTC 25. Third Level Test 1

10. Rider’s Choice WT and Training Level

Horse and rider may enter more than once 26. Third Level Test 2

11. Combined Test Rider’s Choice

All Combined Dressage tests available 27. Third Level Test 3

12. Training Level Test 1 28. Rider’s Choice Third Level

13. Training Level Test 2 29. Musical Freestyle open to all levels

14. Training Level Test 3 30. Nonmusical Freestyle open to all levels

15. Training Level Test 4 31. Model Horse/Pony

Combined Test

32. Prehopeful (Dressage Intro A, Stadium 8 jumps 18” max, not timed)

33. Hopeful (Dressage Beginning Novice Test A, Stadium 8-10 jumps, 2’ feet max, not timed)

34. Novice (Dressage Novice Test A, Stadium 10 jumps 2’6” max, not timed)

Horse Trials

35. Prehopeful (Dressage Intro A, CC 8 jumps 2’ max not timed, stadium jumps 2’ max)

36. Hopeful (Dressage Beginning Novice Test A, CC 10-13 jumps, no combinations, 2’3” max

Stadium 8-10 jumping, no combinations, 2’3” max, not timed.)

Pennsylvania Liability Law: Warning: Under Pennsylvania law an equine professional and equine activity sponsor is not liable for an injury to or death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities

Hunter Horseshow date change

2011-04-24T15:21:00.002-04:00

Please note that the July 30th Hunter Show has been moved to July 23, 2011

The horses really are cute!

2011-04-05T13:03:00.000-04:00

Cameo

Luke

Reo

Gusty Wind Acres Day Camp Schedule

2011-03-13T18:50:00.000-04:00

Day camp
June 20-24, 2011

An August date might be scheduled depending on interest.
724-668-2591
gustywindacres@yahoo.com

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School 2011 Horse Show Dates

2011-03-13T18:47:00.003-04:00

All dates are Saturdays
June 11-Hunter Schooling Show
July 9-Hunter Schooling Show
July 23-Hunter Schooling Show--this is a date change.
* August 27-Dressage, Combined Test & Horse Trials, Janice Behrick, judging

Call 724-668-2591 for more information or email at
gustywindacres@yahoo.com

We can't wait to see everyone this year!

Riding Lessons

2011-02-03T14:38:00.000-05:00

Riding lessons are the center piece of the services offered at Gusty Wind Acres Riding School. Lesson have been offered on this premises since 1969. Over the years the facility has grown and modernized. The barn originally had 4 stalls and was located in Salem Township, Pennsylvania (30 miles east of Pittsburgh, PA). Today the facility has expanded to include 34 stalls, 3 outdoor arenas (including 1 large jumping ring and a full size Dressage ring), a large indoor arena. We also have an indoor arena and over 100 acres of land.

The riding lessons are designed for students who are beginners all the way up through advanced riders. Dressage, Hunter and Eventing are taught. School horses are available and students who own horses are encouraged to take lessons on their own horses. The lessons are systematic with the instructor insuring that the students have mastered the basic concepts before proceeding to more advanced skills. Safety is emphasized. All riders are required to wear approved riding helmets and safe footwear. In addition The school horses are well trained and the instructors are conservative. However none of that slows down the fun. We all enjoy participating in horse shows, camps, barn, and trail rides. In addition if a student decides to buy a horse the instructors are willing to help the student choose an appropriate horse. The students can board the new horse at the facility or bring in horses of their own.

So give us a call or drop us an email if you are interested in joining in on the riding fun at Gusty Wind Acres Riding School! Gift certificates are also available.

Christmas Morning 2010

2011-01-09T18:34:00.001-05:00

All of these photos and videos were take on Christmas morning 2010. All but Chippy and Blaze were take at Gusty Wind Acres. So see what the horses do when the people are too busy on Christmas morning to come out and see them . They are blessed that SOMEONE took care of them. :) The Barn

Blaze and Chippy

Blaze

Dad

Charlie

Christmas Gift Certificates

2010-12-18T10:32:00.000-05:00

So maybe you found a horse on your kid's Christmas list (or your spouse's). Yet buying a horse is not in the budget this year. Or maybe you don't think buying a horse is a good idea. What else could you get them? At Gusty Wind Acres we offer gift certificates for riding lessons. Usually the recipient is very excited to get a chance to ride. Whether or not a horse is in the future riding lessons are a good way to start out. Call if you are interested 724-668-2591

How to Learn to Ride Safely & Riding Clothes

2010-12-17T10:32:00.000-05:00

Riding horses is a lot of fun. However safe practices are very important. Many people have had bad experiences due to riding without good supervision from knowledgeable horse people or riding inappropriate horses (too young, too spirited, untrained, etc.). That is why riding lessons given by experienced and responsible professionals are important for the beginner to intermediate level rider. In addition the horses that lessons are given on should be very calm,well trained, experienced, and middle aged to old (not young!). At least for the beginning lessons an enclosed (fenced) area (a ring or indoor arena) should be used for the lessons until the beginner rider has good control at the walk and trot rather than an open field or woods.

Another important element is clothing. Clothing for riders is important for safety. Riders should always wear a riding helmet (ASTM approved) while mounted. In addition they should also wear appropriate boots. Boots should have a sole with a heel that is at least 1/2 inch tall and not a lot of tread (not hiking boots). Also long pants and a shirt with at least short sleeve should be worn. See below for some examples.

Barn Party-Costume parade!

2010-10-29T13:49:00.000-04:00

Julie & Dallas-the Ladybug
Sarah & Reo--A smore roasting over a fire!

Lisa & Flyer; Arlene & Peek A Boo--travelers returning from South America
Laura and Autumn-a flower riding a bumble bee
Julia and Reo--Alice on the Yellow Brick Road

Abby and Ginger-scarecrows

Sherry & Valentine; Chelsea and Cameo---outlaws!
Arionna & Luke--in their Pajamas---Luke is sleeping!
Alyssa and Long Legs--fairy costume
Buddy & Cincinnatti--a bat and a pumpkin
Marina & Andee---Zebra
Rachel and Chippy-gypsy costume
Emily & Luke--Native Americans
Alexis, Chichi and Autumn-dressed up as a witch an a raven--
Somone and Buddy--a pizza slice on a table
Sherri and Valentine

The costumes were great. If I missed anyone I apologize. The camera wasn't working great that day. Afterward we played a game and had a nice potluck dinner.

Barn Party-October 23!

2010-10-07T11:21:00.000-04:00

Come one come all riding students, boarders, families, and guests!

It's a horse costume party. It will include a costume parade!
Also there will be games and a potluck dinner! Everyone needs to contribute food & a drink!

October 23 from at 3 pm "barn time"!

Special Occasions

2010-10-05T14:45:00.001-04:00

Fun with Luke
Abbie is a senior in High School
Charlie is really cute!
Marina and Tricky were entertainment for Charlotte's graduation party!
Kate and Peek A Boo made friends

Vacation-Ocean City New Jersey where are the horses?

2010-09-13T10:09:00.001-04:00

I finally took a vacation
I looked around and around

for the horses
I didn't find any.

but, I found a dog. He's cute!

and a friend!

Horses in Montana

2010-08-30T15:18:00.001-04:00

Daniel, Suzanne and Salta
,

Sierra & Dolce

Elizabeth and Salta

Ruth, Salta, Elizabeth, Suzanne and Me

Suzanne, Salta, Elizabeth & Andrew w/his blankie

Salta being groomed by Ruth, Daniel & Elizabeth--I am watching

Elizabeth and Classy

Ruth & Cajun
Melody, Dolce, & Sierra w/me
Elizabeth, Salta & Me

Aug 7, 2010 Hunter Schooling Show

2010-08-07T14:14:00.001-04:00

Dressage Show & Horse Trials

2010-07-24T21:45:00.001-04:00

Charlotte and Alpha Bravo Charlie
Kathleen & Blue Sky

Emmy and My Sweet Levi
Charlotte & Alpha Bravo Charlie
Emmy and My Sweet Levi
Ariona and Long Legs
Arionna and Long Legs
Emmy and Levi
Mary Ellen and Zar
Arianna and Long Legs
Charlotte and Moonlight Sonata
Arionna and Long Legs
Kathleen and April Morning
Missy and Magic
Abby and Cincinnatti
The show went great-no injuries or heat stroke!
I will try to post more photos later.

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School Inc, Hunter Schooling Show July 10, 2010

2010-07-11T17:30:00.000-04:00

Saturday's horse show was a beautiful day. It was sunny with an 81 degree high and low humidity. Everyone seemed to have a fun day. Most of these photos were taken by other people because the memory card on our camera was FULL. Therefore the photos on this page are a bit jumbled.

Pleasure Class
Charlotte on Charlie and Tayler M on Tosheba

Ashely D. on Stout, Tayler M. on Tosheba, and Sarah B on Zoe

Trail class
Tosheba's eye-a close up
Ribbons-I won a second!
Walk Trot-Beginning Rider Division-
Emily P on Reo and Tayler M. on Tosheba

Left to right Ashley D. on Stout, Tayler M on Tosheba, and Sarah B on Zoe
Line up-walk trot
Tayler M & Tosheba JUMPING! WHEE its fun!
Costume Class
Friends! Tosheba enjoys being petted

Tayler M and Buddy B. on Chippy

An under saddle class
Elizabeth on Lady and Buddy B on Cincinatti

Costume class
Chinese Princess
and "God Bless America"

Dallas Got up too late!

"God bless America" Emily and Buddy

Buddy and Cincinatti "Pony Express"

Julie and Dallas-pajamas

Tayler M. with a third place ribbon

Tayler M. in a class

Sarah B "Chinese Princess" with Zoe

Pairs class

Bella on Lady as a princess.

Emily on Luke

2010-07-08T13:38:00.000-04:00

Horse Day Camp 2010

2010-06-24T18:35:00.001-04:00

Abby on Moonlight Sonata
Abby on Moonlight Sonata

Emily on Luke
Buddy on Reo
Ariona on Wind Chaser

Sarah on Chippy

Emily on Luke

Sarah on Chippy

Buddy on Reo

Field Trip to Fox Run Equine Center-Equine Hospital

Petting Willy the Vet Hospital Guard Dog

Standing in the "Stocks" in the examination room

The operating table

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School Hunter Horse Show June 19, 2010

2010-06-24T18:16:00.001-04:00

Costume Class

Family and Friends class (aka Pairs Class)

Melissa and Magic ready for the horse show.

Big Guy & a Little Girl

2010-06-13T16:31:00.000-04:00

Run baby run!

2010-05-31T18:18:00.001-04:00

Charlie and Chase Having Fun

2010-03-27T18:58:00.001-04:00

We May Have Had 2 Blizzards In One Week, But That Can't Keep Us From Riding Outside! (Even if there is a nice indoor arena that we could be riding in)

2010-02-13T19:54:00.000-05:00

Here are Allyssa and Luke. This is the first time around so the snow is up to his knees. If we were sane we would be riding in the indoor arena that you see behind her. However it was more fun for horse and rider to ride out in the snow. Although we did ride inside first.

Here are Missy and Magic. Magic loves to push the snow with his nose while he walks around.

Here I am riding Sonny. He thinks the snow is fun to play in. He's so tall that the snow doesn't see as deep to him as it does to Magic!

Here are some videos. Magic really likes to keep up with the other horses. I am practicing cantering Sonny in the snow because he needs to practice cantering without trying to buck. In the snow he has to work to get his feet out of the snow. The practice seems to be helping. Maybe this summer he will canter with less fuss!

Blizzard of February 2010

2010-02-09T13:18:00.000-05:00

We kept the horses in during the two day snow storm of Feb 6, 2010 that put about 30 inches of snow on the ground. However once the storm stopped we put the horses outside to play for a little while. Here are some photos of that & a couple of videos. Enjoy!

Cold Weather Again

2010-01-29T13:33:00.000-05:00

It is January and I live in Western Pennsylvania. So why do I feel like complaining about the cold weather? The horses & cats do not seem to mind the weather. I think they like having some leisure time. I don't mind it too much either as long as I wear plenty of clothes.

The only two people who like this weather.

2010-01-02T17:02:00.001-05:00

New Years Day-Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T16:30:00.001-05:00

2010 starts with snow!
Breakfast on the patio.
"Why must I work?" Sonny wants to know!
Peek says "I don't know!".
Andee says "I want to go!".

To everyone one-Happy New Year! Whoa!

Christmas @ Gusty Wind

2010-01-01T16:06:00.001-05:00

Above is a picture of what the people Christmas looked like inside the house.

Even though the weather was bad the horses did get outside for a little while on Christmas. Here are Mischief & Sonny waiting to go inside.
Dallas & Chase hung their stockings with care. A few more of these horse owners need to get their horses' stockings out next year!
Peek A Boo says give me a treat out of my stocking!
This is what the cats did on Christmas Day. It kind of looks like most of the other days around here for them!

Christmas Play Given by Headwaters Baptist Church

2009-12-25T20:25:00.000-05:00

The littlest Shepherd is Ruth and Joseph is Daniel. These are the grandchildren. Suzanne is playing the piano & Michael is narrating and playing the trombone.

Snow Day! This Is What the Horses Do When Lessons get Cancelled Due to the Bad Roads!

2009-12-19T14:33:00.000-05:00

Charlie & Dallas Enjoy the Snow!

Dallas Goes Trotting Elegantly

Reo Checks Out the New Snow

Andee Looks at the Snow

Now Andee Trots Out.

Andee Goes the Rest of the Way with a Little Encouragement

I thank the Lord for my many blessings

2009-11-29T17:26:00.000-05:00

During this Thanksgiving season. I give thanks to the Lord for the many blessings that I hold so dear.

My parents

and family both far and near.

I am thankful for my friends close by who love to play.

Also my church friends with whom I pray,

I thank the Lord for my friends far away that I will see again someday.

I am thankful for my home so near.
The place where my animal friends dwell.
My oldest animal friend Valentine. Whom I love well.

My friends & pets of years past.

My horses who used to go fast!
Long Legs who still loves the children.
Valentine who looked like a million and still does today!
Autumn who loves to jump all day!

Tejas my new friend.

P.J. who I can't believe is so old!

Duchess who always smiled!

Benjie & Brownie who were so mild.

Buscie who had a heart so great!

Charlie, Sonny & Chase my boys old and new!

Now my only wish is that I would develop a talent for poetry
because this attempt went woefully.

Welcome Dallas

2009-11-24T17:20:00.000-05:00

Julie got a new horse named Dallas. Congratulations Julie & welcome Dallas.

This is Baby Bear. He was found the the back of the cab of our truck when he was about 1 week old. We tried to take care of him & then Elaine offered to keep him until he could eat solid food. So after he was old enough to eat solid food she brought him back to us. His name is Little Bear because we used to have a cat named bear who was the same color.

Sonny Likes Being a Trail Horse!!!!

2009-11-08T21:48:00.000-05:00

This is the original. Which do you like best? Sonny and I were just back from a trail ride.

This picture caught us totally unaware. I had no idea that anyone was taking a picture. It was taken by Chelsea Lucas. I am not normally a fan of black & white, but this one is interesting with the shadows and the tallllll horse. HMMMM I wonder what the color version looked like. Nice job on the composition on that photo.

Last day of October

2009-10-31T21:19:00.000-04:00

Ella & Alissa

Abby & Ginger
Bobby in his new sheet.
Sherry & Reo

Abby & Autumn

Our Barn Party Costume Parade!

2009-10-25T14:48:00.000-04:00

This year we decided to have a barn party costume parade! This was the one time everyone could dress up even though it wasn't a horse show. Lots of the students did not get to go in any horse shows this year. So dressing up for the pure fun of it seemed like a a great idea!! (At least until I got started trying to get the horse outfits on the horses! Then I wasn't so sure!)

First in line in the parade were Peek A Boo and Flyer. Peek A Boo was dressed as the young horse and Flyer was dressed as her "Granny". Arlene rode Peek A Boo and Lisa led Granny. Many thanks to Lisa for helping with Granny. Anyone who knows Peek and Flyer know that were Peek A Boo goes Granny is almost always close by. Granny even stayed at the vet hospital last year when Boo was getting surgery. Granny was getting ready to take Boo on a field trip to South America, Boo even had her bag packed. We played a game later where the participants had to guess what Boo had packed for her trap.

Boo has made Granny's hair grey! It is a chore sometimes keeping up with this young horse!

Here is Kathleen the only one of the three Musketeers that could make it to the party. She is riding "Blue Sky", whose old registered name was "Bold Intimidator" that name seems appropriate when he is dressed like this!

Here is the new kid, Andee Ixe Storm. She just moved back from Pittsburgh and judging from her chef outfit she is planning to cook her way into popularity with the other horses. Marina is her proud owner!

This is Julie's first opportunity to dress up her horse, Kolt (Cypress Moonbar). I guess that since she wanted a horse for Christmas last year but had to wait until New Year's day to get him she decided to go with a "Father Christmas" theme.

Here is Kathleen ready to conquer the party.

Julie and Kolt
Here is cowgirl Ashley with her cow pony Luke!
Here is our Hippy Friend Alyssa riding Long Legs. Peace Out!

That is a view of the parade. A total of 13 horses participated! What beautiful fall colors.
Here is Buddy Berry riding his "cow" Reo. Their theme was a cowboy riding a cow.
Here is Abby riding Autumn. Autumn is a hula dancer with her Island rider Abby. That straw hat was real challenge to keep in place!
Abby and Cincinatti are a vision of spider webs and spiders. I was shocked that someone who is as afraid of spiders as Abby is would chose this for her costume. However Cinnci thought the web was itchy!

Here is Chelsea with Cameo. They are dressed in an Arabian horse native costume. Cameo is an Arabian and Chelsea wanted to show her off in her traditional garb! Chelsea and Sherry made the tassles by hand.

Krystal also did an Arabian native outfit with Buddy who is also an Arabian. I think this pair is very nice.

Brittany makes a nice statement with her outfit. She is riding Sundance Bob.
What's cooking Andee? I was getting really hungry by this point.
Here is Sweet Valentine. She had her 35th birthday last month. So we sang her happy birthday and I fed her carrots. She was purchased for me originally so I insisted on presenting her carrots. I sure look different now than I did when I was 9 years old and saw her for the first time!

Afterward we played what is in Peek A Boo's purse and ate lots of good food at a Potluck Dinner! I hope we have even more participants at the next barn party.

Welcome Andee and Marina!

2009-10-19T10:25:00.000-04:00

Andee Ixe Storm used to live here and now she is back! Welcome back! We are so happy to have her back. Marina its great to have you around to!

Riding Fun in Montana

2009-10-03T18:03:00.000-04:00

Below is Daniel riding Salta. These are pictures of the grandchildren during a visit out there.

Here are Ruth, Andrew, and Suzanne with the miniature "Classy".

Below Daniel is riding "Classy".

Veterinarian Articles On Gusty Wind Acres website

2009-09-27T16:09:00.000-04:00

These brief articles are not written by a vet. They document various interesting procedures or cases that are related to the horses that reside here. Please enjoy and comment if you would like more information.

Small article about moon blindness and a photo of an eye ultrasound that shows a cataract

Article about shock wave therapy and its application to hock arthritis

Ultrasound of a horse eye showing a cataract

2009-09-23T12:03:00.001-04:00

One of the horses at Gusty Wind Acres Riding School has a condition called uveitis which is more commonly called "moon blindness". Uveitis is an inflammation of the uveall tract of the eye. The problem is that it tends to flare up repeatedly through out a horse's life and it can ultimately cause the retina of the eye to detach and complete blindness to occur. A horse who has this condition is very sensitive to light especially sunlight. The Ultraviolet Rays in the sunlight can cause "flare ups". So horses with this condition should either be kept out of the sunlight or should wear special fly masks (Guardian Fly Masks) that have circles that protect the eye from rubbing and provide ultraviolet light protection. They are available at www.horseflymask.com. Bute is commonly given to prevent the inflammation in the eye.

Horses with Uveitis are prone to cataracts. This horse has 1 cataract in each eye. This photo was taken at the Fox Run Equine Center where Dr. Burks did an ultrasound of her eye. If you click on the photo you can see where the cataract is. This photo is of the ultrasound as it was shown on the screen of the ultrasound machine. This article is purely for educational use and was not written by a vet. Please do not depend on it for decision making purposes, but consult your vet if your horse is having eye problems. Thanks to the horse owner for allowing this photo to be taken.

My first pony! Chocolate-Chocky!

2009-09-19T09:16:00.000-04:00

Results of the 2009 Gusty Wind Acres Hunter Series

2009-09-13T16:21:00.000-04:00

These are the trophies that were handed out to the year end winners. Also prizes like saddle pads, girths, calenders and horse treats were given. Three trophies were awarded for each division. Participation award trophies were also given.

Beginning Rider Champion Year End Award Stacy Krusper
Reserve Champion Addison Chiccio
Third Overall Alyssa Anderson

Beginning Horse
Champion Year End Abigail Walters
Reserve - Alyssa Anderson
There was a tie for third
Sarah West
Lexie Koziak

Introductory Hunter
Champion Year End Abigail Walters
Reserve Year End Melissa Knox

Hopeful Hunter
Champion Year End Rachel Bredel
Reserve Abigail Walters

Special Hunter
Champion Year End Kathleen Posteraro
Reserve Michelle Platek
Third Charlotte Schott

Congratulations everyone! It was a great season!!!!!

Below you can see the costume class participants.

African Predator & Prey-Sarah is on the prowl in the corral hear her growl!!!! Sarah Nordby & Romping Reo.

City of Champions-Here comes Jasmine painting the town in her black and gold colors. She is a true fan in the city of Champions. GO STEELERS! Courtney Poholsky and "All that Jazz".

Alexander Chiccio & Mr. Nibbles

Abbie Walters and Cincinnati jumping in Hopeful Hunter

It was a great summer season! Hope to see everyone in the 2010 series!

2009 Gusty Wind Hunter Show results as of the July 25 horseshow

2009-08-30T21:19:00.000-04:00

Riders or their representatives must be present at the September 12 show to receive their awards. Trophies for 1st, 2nd & 3rd will be given. Also participation awards will be given. Thank you for your participation so far. Many of you are very close in the points count some come out to the last show to secure your placing in the year end standings! 0=participation.

Beginning Rider

Abby Cuffie 9

Buddy Berry 9

Stacy Krusper 27

Sarah Nordby 8

Rachael Hines 1

Alyssa Anderson 10

Alexis Valenta 7

Sarah Kayda 6

Rebecca Hines 1

Addison Checheccio 21

Taylor Mayanesik 12

Caitlyn Mendik 0

Beginning Horse

Buddy Berry 8

Staci Krusper 8

Sarah Nordby 5

Alyssa Anderson 11

Alexis Valenta 1

Sarah Kayda 5

Rebecca Hines 5

Taylor Mayanesik 4

Sydni Fabrizi 13

Grace Reynolds 3

Hannah Reynolds 9

Sarah West 13

Lexie Koziak 6

Abigail Walters 15

Introductory Hunter

Alexis Valenta 4

Hannah Reynolds 0

Melissa Knox 9

Abigail Walters 10

Hopeful Hunter

Kathleen Posteraro 9

Alana Cuiffi 12

Rachel Bredel 12

Melissa Knox 4

Abigail Walter 7

Sherri Lynn Fiear 8

Brittany Roberto 10

Liz Ferris 0

Special Hunter

Michelle Platek 9

Kathleen Posteraro 10

Alana Cuiffi 0

Sherry Lynn Frear 9

Brittany Roberto 13

Liz Ferris 1

Hunter

Sherry Lynn Frear 8

Brittany Roberto 10

Colleen Sotak 10

Pleasure

Colleen Sotak 0

Our History in Photos!

2009-08-09T19:31:00.000-04:00

These photos were sent to me via facebook about a week ago by one of my mother's former riding students Robin. Thank you Robin for sending this great old photos that vary in age from 1974-1981. Above is a photo of Robin on Ebony. For some reason there were a bunch of photos taken of me personally. I must have attracted attention as the smallest student in the riding school.

This picture shows me (Charlotte) at about age three in my normal horseshow outfit. Mother always tried to dress me in red because I was easy to see if I got away from her at the horse show. This particular sweater was crocheted for me by my Mema Schott. I remember it very well and wonder what ever happened to it. I think this picture was taken in our barn in front of one of the stalls. The timbers are new and haven't even turned the darker color that I remember them as. Later we redid the stalls.

This is a picture of me in 1975 riding my pony Chocolate (Chocky). We are at a horseshow at Hi Acres you can see their hunter ring in the background behind me. Mother used to take me to the horse shows with Chocky and then I could ride her all day. We still have this little Western saddle. It was great for me to use because I could always grab the saddle horn in an emergency. Also mother could not find an English saddle that fit Chocky. So she modified the Western saddle (she removed the fenders so that I could have my leg closer to the pony). I "learned to ride English in a western saddle." That saddle was great because it had those stirupp covers on the stirups so I was not at risk for getting my foot caught in the stirup and being dragged by the pony. Even at a time when many riders did not wear riding helmet mother always insisted that I wear mine when I rode. Considering how many headaches I have gotten after falling off horses over the years its possible that the riding helmet rule kept my brains in good enough order to manage to do my school work as I grew up.

This is a photo taken around 1976 of me with my puppy, Curly Ears. She may have been a Cockapoo. She was the only dog that was ever allowed to sleep on the floor next to my bed. The sad thing is I really do not remember her. I am sitting on a coop jump that was in the field below the ring (now the Dressage ring) we did not know what Dressage was back then ( except for knowing about the Lipizzaners who did beautiful dancing). I think my Grandmother must have been visiting because I cannot imagine having that dress on otherwise.

Speaking of Dressage here is the only picture of me in a Dressage show in this collection. Since Robin stopped riding here in about 1976 I think this photo must have been taken when she came for a visit in 1981. This is Sweet Valentine she was my "good pony". Notice her coloring at that time she was about 6 years old and she had a dark mane and tale. Her color was buckskin. Now at age 35 she is WHITE! Notice my trademark position in the saddle from looking at these photos it looks to me like I've been doing that pose since I was 4 years old. I do not know who the girl standing behind Valentine is. By the way notice I have my hunt coat, boots and breeches on and my pony is BRAIDED. Braiding Valentine was very difficult because she used to be head shy. I think she was head shy because she always wore a cribbing strap and she hated it. We finally gave up on the strap because she could crib anyway. Now she does not have to wear it ever.

This picture represents a big transition in our riding program. These two lovely ladies are Thoroughbred mares. This was the second Thoroughbred foal we ever raised. Their names are Strawpump Nancy (the mother) and Early Nancy Dancer was the filly. Earlier in our history we mostly had an Arabian (see the story of Gusty Wind), a Morgan cross mare (Honey), and some other Quarter Horse and Appaloosa types. From this point on Mother preferred Throughbreds. We bred and raised many Throughbreds. Later we also bred a couple of Throughbred mares to Hannoverian Stallions (resulting is Mischief and Long Legs) and some other combinations. However mother to this day prefers THROUGHBREDS!

This is Strawpump Jackie she was a sister to Strawpump Nancy.

Here is a photo of a bunch of riding students waiting for their turns to go in the horse show. The horse on the left is "Grey" and the guy behind him is my Dad and although we can't see the horse I think he is on Cocomo. Mother is holding Ebony and Robin is pointing towards the ring, and our Quarter Horse Cat aka "Cat's Troubles" is in the far right of the photo. This was taken in 1974.

Here is a picture of Vicky Barnes jumping Cocomo.

How Shocking! Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

2009-08-08T22:22:00.000-04:00

Sundance Bobby aka Fort Apache Bobby belongs to Kathleen and Tony Posteraro. He is a 20 year old quarter. Bobby's career objective is to be a reliable trail horse for Tony. However Kathleen noticed that Bobby was picking up and putting down his left hind leg after he got up from lying down or after he stood around for a long time. She felt that he might be showing pain in that leg. So she asked Dr. Burks from Fox Run Equine Center to examine him. Dr Burks examined Bobby and shot a series radio graphs which showed that his hocks were very arthritic.

As a part of his treatment for Bobby Dr. Burks did shock wave therapy. Shock wave therapy uses sound waves to promote healing in both soft and hard tissues. It is unknown exactly why it works. However what it tends to do is to promote the growth of healthy tissue. In Bobby's case the goal was to get his hocks to fuse so that he no longer experienced the pain in them. The therapy is not expected to make his gaits and different than they are know, but his pain should decrease substantially.

Shockwave Therapy is slightly uncomfortable while it is being administered, so tranquilizers are administered even to calm horses.
You can see in this picture that Bobby has been tranquized in preparation for the Shockwave Therapy.

Then rubbing alcohol was rubbed on the area of treatment because the sound waves travel better through the wet surface. The wet surface prevents airpockets in the hair that can interfere with the shocks being administered.

Then Dr. Burks used the probe to apply the shockwave to Bobby's hocks. Bobby was already showing improvement from the first time this was done about two weeks prior. He may need up to one or two additional treatment depending on how he responds to this one. Here are two videos of Dr. Burks doing the procedure.

Horse Books for Children-Thelwell Series-My Childhood Favorites!

2009-08-06T23:03:00.000-04:00

Norman Thelwell 1923-2004. These are the pony cartoons that I grew up enjoying. I used to read the comic books over and over and I had a shirt with the characters that was my favorite shirt!
Even today I have a Thelwell mug that I got for Christmas this year! I don't use it instead it sits in the china cabinet. It was the last Thelwell item the tack shop had in stock!

As far as nonfiction books go there are a few that are fantastic for young horse people.

For kids younger than ten years old the book Happy Horsemanship is a great way to learn the ins and out of horse care and safety.

The Pony Club Manuals hold the essentials for riding, caring for, and competing horses.

Books for Hunter Riders-Equitation, Training, Pleasure,

2009-08-06T22:58:00.000-04:00

Junior Camp Was Lots of Fun

2009-07-24T22:13:00.000-04:00

Sarah N
Other kids at camp were Aubrey and Emily P. Buddy B. was a helper along with Abbie and Julie.
Buddy & Sarah brush Ginger
They also hug Tejas
Sarah is ready to head home after camp.
I am sorry that I didn't get more pictures from this camp. My battery needed to be charged so I couldn't until the last day. The kids learned to clean stalls, clean tack, & how to care for the horses during their barn lessons. They also got to have 1 riding lesson each day and got to ride bareback one time. Popsicles where the favorite refreshing treat!

Fun 'N Games

2009-07-20T12:47:00.000-04:00

All the pretty horses

2009-07-12T15:53:00.001-04:00

Results of the June 13, 2009 Gusty Wind Acres Riding School Hunter Show-Part of the Year End Awards

2009-07-05T20:01:00.001-04:00

Thanks to the Year End Sponsor for making the year end awards possible!!!

Points are 1st=5 2nd=3 3rd=2 4th=1
Points only count if there are three participants in the class.
Those that got 0 points are listed for the sake of the participation awards.
Year End Awards will be given 1st through 3rd place with trophies and horse items
Participation awards will be given to all riders who take part.

Leadline participants only get participation awards since it is not a division.
June 13, 2009 points.



Rider	Leadline	Begin R.	Begin H.	Intro Horse	Hopeful	Special
Abby Cuffie		9
Buddy Berry		4	5
Staci Krusper		12
Sarah Nordby		1
Rachael Hines		1
Alyssa Anderson		10	11
Alexis Valenta		4
Sarah Kayda		6	5
Rebecca Hines		1	5
Addison Checheccio		13
Michelle Platek						5
Kathleen Posteraro					9	3
Alana Cuiffi					12	0
Rachel Bredel					9
Morgan McKeever	0
Sydni Fabrizi			13
Grace Reynolds			3
Hannah Reynolds			9	0
Mich Reynolds	0
Jul Mendik	0
Caitlyn Mendik		0
Sarah West			2
Lexie Koziak			6

Welcome Knox Family

2009-06-29T13:30:00.001-04:00

Missy, Carol and Dave we are very happy to welcome you and your horses Magic, Macarian, & Margarita to Gusty Wind! So far its been a lot of fun riding with you!

Chelsea-all grown up-Class 2009!

2009-06-21T22:04:00.001-04:00

Chelsea graduated! Yay Chelsea! Chelsea has been riding at Gusty Wind Acres Riding School since she was 6 (or maybe 7) years old. She rode just about all the school horses that anyone can remember like Valentine, Honey, Bobby, Luke, Autumn, Valentine, Reo, Mischief, Mocha, Flyer (oh yes she can tell stories about her) DESI, Buddy, Long Legs, Mischief, & Kolt. Some of them aren't even with us anymore. It is safe to say that all of those horses shaped her in someway. Yet, she brightened their days every time she came for a lesson. She always had a goodie and a kind word for each one.

She started out on Valentine, a little bitty girl on a lunge line. Then she got to ride Honey and Desi. (She missed out on Rocket-that was your loss Chelsea!) Then Luke and Autumn followed. Then somewhere around that time Sherri started to ride! First she did a lot of paper work for me, but then she started to ride. We got her hooked too. Then Sherri started doing barn work and since Chelsea was her mother's biggest helper--she did barn work too! She went in shows and had her ups and downs there too.

Then some time past and they GOT A HORSE. Yes darling Cameo came along. At first they probably wondered can we handle this girl?? Yes they could! Now Chelsea is an equal partner with her mother in training and caring for Cameo. Once she graduates from Art School she'll probably even help with the bills!

She approaches each horse with care and understanding. when she and her mom get here the horses (mostly those white mares & Luke) come up for treats! She also is a riding instructor in her own right and an accomplished horse woman.

Now she is planning to become an interior decorator and is enrolled at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. It is a bachelor's degree program! So Yay Chelsea! We all love you!

Then this guy came along and we thought we might lose her, but no she loves horses more! Haha Brad!
Nice prom picture kid, but you look better in riding clothes. Be careful Brad, Cameo might take offense to that hand around her girl!

Another lovely shot of a beautiful girl!

See I told you she loves horses most! She had her party in the INDOOR ARENA! (We still have a balloon floating around to prove it!)

Here's the proud Mama! I wonder if she's recovered from all that graduation celebrating!

That lady put her heart and soul into making things nice for Chelsea!

Chelsea don't forget us just because you went to the big city! You still have to come out

so you don't forget how to ride!

Love, the horses (especially Cameo)

Congatulations Courtney on your new horse Jasmine

2009-06-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

Courtney purchased a 4 year old tricolor paint mare name Jasmine! She is a real beauty. We are all very happy for her.

Gusty Wind Acres has riding for Girl Scouts

2009-04-18T09:31:00.000-04:00

The Girl Scouts from Ligonier, PA came for a visit yesterday. They got a chance to ride, lead, and groom the horses. They also learned about the basics of horse care and safety precautions. We had a great time and hope the girls did too!

Sonny boy

2009-04-04T15:32:00.000-04:00

Moonlight Sonata

Dressage Show Program 2009

2009-03-28T21:02:00.000-04:00

Gusty Wind Acres Riding School, Inc.
Schooling Dressage, Combined Test & Horse Trials
Website:http://www.gustywindacres.blogspot.com
2009 Email gustywindacres@yahoo.com
Show Dates: June 27 August 8
Closing Dates: June 13 July 25
Judges: Janice Beherick Pat McConnell
ASTM approved helmets & riding boots are required to be worn and fastened at all times while any rider is mounted.
Current year’s negative Coggins test is required for all horses brought onto the grounds.
No visiting dogs permitted.
Awards: 5 Ribbons per class; High Percentage for each Dressage level
Send a SAS postcard for riding times.
Call 724-668-2591 or email gustywindacres@yahoo.com for more information.

Dressage & Model
16. First Level Test 1
1. Lunge Line WT Equitation 17. First Level Test 2
2. Lunge Line WT Suitability 18. First Level Test 3
3. WPDA Walk Trot 19. First Level Test 4
4. USDF Introductory Test A 20. Rider’s Choice First and Second Levels
5. USDF Introductory Test B 21. Second Level Test 1
6. Suitability WT 22. Second Level Test 2
7. Suitability WTC 23. Second Level Test 3
8. Equitation WT 24. Second Level Test 4
9. Equitation WTC 25. Third Level Test 1
10. Rider’s Choice WT and Training Level
Horse and rider may enter more than once 26. Third Level Test 2
11. Combined Test Rider’s Choice
All Combined Dressage tests available 27. Third Level Test 3
12. Training Level Test 1 28. Rider’s Choice Third Level
13. Training Level Test 2 29. Musical Freestyle open to all levels
14. Training Level Test 3 30. Nonmusical Freestyle open to all levels
15. Training Level Test 4 31. Model Horse/Pony

Combined Test
32. Prehopeful (Dressage Intro A, Stadium8 jumps 18” max, not timed)
33. Hopeful (Dressage Beginning Novice Test A, Stadium 8-10 jumps, 2’ feet max, not timed)
34. Novice (Dressage Novice Test A, Stadium10 jumps 2’6” max, not timed)

Horse Trials: ONLY August 16
35. Prehopeful (Dressage Intro A, CC 8 jumps 2’ max not timed, stadium jumps 2’ max)
36. Hopeful (Dressage Beginning Novice Test A, CC 10-13 jumps, no combinations, 2’3” max
Stadium 8-10 jumping, no combinations, 2’3” max, not timed.)

Pennsylvania Liability Law: Warning: Under Pennsylvania law an equine professional and equine activity sponsor is not liable for an injury to or death of a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities