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Sep 23, 2016
Tips and Tricks of the Trade: Kathleen Murray's Secret Grooming Weapons
Tips and Tricks of the Trade is an article series that gives you the industry secrets from the best grooms in the country, and it is brought to you by Athletux.
At any show impeccable turnout is essential. From your tack to the braids to the sheen of your horse’s coat, how you present yourself and your horse makes a lasting impression. Want to up your game? Make a note of the three things world-class groom Kathleen Murray wouldn’t head to a show without:
Kathleen and Ballynoe Castle RM. Photo via BDJ's Facebook Page.
My Quarter Mark Brush - A good quatermark finishes your look, and you want it to last. It all starts with your brush. You want a brush with very stiff, short bristles. My favorite is the Haas Kinderwurzel brush.
Witch Hazel – Traveling from show to show means new stalls, shavings and places to roll! This also means the word we all dread: hives. Worry not, witch hazel can save the day. I keep a spray bottle of witch hazel and mist it over the horses in their daily grooming to keep skin problems at bay.
Braiding Kit – Stand out braids start with the right tools. Compile a kit, and leave it in your trailer so you’re prepared at all times. Here’s what I always include:
- Quickbraid, or hairspray if you get desperate!
- A large, dull metal needle with a large eye for easy threading
- Mane pulling comb to create perfectly even sections
- Small scissors
- A stool, to make your life easier!
- Wax thread for perfect, tight braids that last all day
Whether you’re at a schooling show or riding down the centerline at Rolex, turnout is of the upmost importance, and the right tools make all the difference! Happy showing!
May 09, 2025
Convention
Experience the Spirit of New Orleans at this Year’s USEA Annual Meeting & Convention
The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is excited to head to Area V this Dec. 11-14 for the 2025 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana! Known for its rich history, world-class jazz, and electrifying Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans will set the stage for a lively week of discussion and education on the most important topics in the sport of eventing. Gather your fellow members and meet us to celebrate the last year of success in “The Big Easy!”
May 08, 2025
Competitions
Tom McEwen and JL Dublin are Stars of the Show at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials
The Olympic gold medallists Tom McEwen and JL Dublin lit up the arena at the MARS Badminton Horse Trials with a stunning performance and took the lead after the first day of dressage with the excellent mark of 22.4. They have almost five penalties over second-placed Emily King and Valmy Biats on 27.3.
May 08, 2025
Education
Pressure Proof Tip with Daniel Stewart: Reframing Isn't About Hanging Pictures
At some point in your riding career, you probably found yourself feeling or dealing with a little fear, failure, or frustration. We’ve all been there. Regardless of whether we’re competitive or recreational, we’ve likely found ourselves getting a bit stuck on stress or a struggle; dealing with a little defeat or disappointment, or feeling overwhelmed or underprepared.
May 07, 2025
Interscholastic
Through the Lens: 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships
We might still be recovering physically from the excitement of the 2025 USEA Intercollegiate & Interscholastic Eventing Championships, but mentally we keep playing the weekend over and over again in our heads. This is a weekend that many eventers and lovers of the sport all over the country (ourselves included) look forward to each year and this year was no exception. From teams getting to experience their first time ever at the championship to mascots swapping gear in a show of camaraderie, there were so many great moments that took place during this year's end-of-the-school-year event. Take a look at some of our favorite moments from the three day competition below!
