Equine A to Z from Cheval LiberteEquine A to Z from Cheval Liberte

A – American Barns and Accessories

You don’t have to live in the United States to enjoy all the benefits of an American style barn. You simply need enough space in which one of these fantastic buildings can be constructed. An American barn can be as versatile as you need it to be – providing both shelter and healthy ventilation. Not only can it accommodate your horses in loose boxes or stalls but there can also be plenty of room for tack room and hay storage areas. Cheval Liberte has a number of different options in terms of style and design to ensure that your new barn can either blend in to current surroundings or be as distinct as you want it to be.

To run a successful stable, you don’t just need the roof over your head, you will also need plenty in the way of accessories – and Cheval Liberte can take care of all your equestrian requirements.

B – Barn doors and Badminton Horse Trials

Barn doors (or at least barn “style” doors) are hugely popular for homeowners looking to make a stylish statement on their property, but in the context of our equine A-Z, a barn door really is a door for a barn! As you would expect they come in different shapes and sizes in order to match your barn or building, whether they are sliding doors or swinging doors.

The Badminton Horse Trials is a world renowned 3 day event which is currently held in the spring of each year. Staged within the grounds of Badminton House. The event was first held in 1949 following the Olympics the previous year. The event has been cancelled on 5 occasions (4 times because of bad weather and once due to an outbreak of foot and mouth) but in 2015, the event will be staged for the 62^nd time. Famous winners include Pippa Funnell, Mark Todd, Ian Stark, Lucinda Green and Mark Phillips.

C – Club Stable Door and Chalet Barn

The Club Stable door from Cheval Liberte is designed to work with either an existing building or a new stable build. When purchased, they are delivered to the relevant site already fitted inside their frames to make the job more straightforward. These doors are strong and sturdy and can stand up to any harsh treatment that the horses might dish out. The door panels themselves are available in a variety of finishes, whether you are looking for a natural or lacquered appearance.

The “Chalet” is one of the company’s American Barn styles and as the name might suggest, has the look of a traditional alpine chalet. It has a modular design, which effectively means you can set it up as per the number of horses/stalls you require. Each of these barns features (and comes with) large double doors, which deliver terrific access.

D – Dressage and Durability

Dressage is one of the most fascinating competitive equestrian sports to watch. “The highest expression of horse training” is how the International Equestrian Federation describes the discipline and discipline is a very appropriate word as it takes lots of it from both horse and rider to be able to challenge at the top levels. Although a competitive sport, essentially the “training” process is designed to improve the athletic ability of the horse with the idea that by the end of the training, the animal is better equipped to be ridden.

Durability is a word that features quite prominently in the equine word and so it’s no surprise that products available at Cheval Liberte also possess a durable quality. Just as a rider seeks out a horse that is strong with high levels of durability, so too an owner desires products and equipment that can not only stand the test of time and inclement weather but also stand up to the strength of the animals themselves. All of the products and buildings found on our website have been specifically built with all of this in mind.

E – Equine and Eventing

According to dictionary.reference.com, the word “Equine” means “of, relating to or resembling a horse”. So, basically anything to do with horses or the horses themselves could be described as being equine. Whereas equine refers to anything horse related, the word “equestrian” refers more specifically to horseback riding. At Cheval Liberte, we have both of these words covered with stables and building for horses as well as some of the equipment needed for horseback riding.

Eventing is another competitive “event” for horse and rider and comprises three different events, including dressage, show jumping and cross country. Usually, only the cream of the crop in terms of riders and horses are able to compete in eventing as a single horse and a single rider must complete each of the three disciplines, meaning that both have to be in incredible shape both mentally and physically.

F – Field Shelters, French and Fanlights

Field shelters can be either a permanent or temporary fixture, although the mobile, temporary option often proves to be the most popular, largely because in most cases, planning permission is not required. These shelters can be effective in both summer and winter, providing respite from the elements – both the heat and the cold. Being able to relocate the structure is also a huge benefit.

With “Cheval Liberte” being a French term, it’s no surprise to discover that the company itself was founded in France back in 2005. Since then it has become a brand known throughout Europe and continues to grow in 2015.

A fanlight is effectively a skylight that is fitted above a door. In historical and architectural terms, a fanlight would usually have been in that fan-like or semi-circle shape. Much simpler at Chevel Liberte, it is the light fitting that is placed above a stable door.

G – Groundwork and the Grand National

Groundwork is an essential part of horse training and also a useful bonding exercise between human and animal. The horse, through a series of exercises such as leading, bodywork (which includes grooming) yielding and circle work learns to yield to basic instructions from its handler or rider. If the horse is to see competition at some point, then this training becomes even more important. If a horse responds particularly well in this area, you may be able to spot a potential winner for future competition.

The Grand National staged at Aintree in Liverpool is loved and hated in equal measure but it’s difficult to have an equine A-Z without at least mentioning what is probably one of the most famous horse jump races in the world, with an estimated annual, worldwide audience of more than 500 million. It’s an event that is steeped in history and controversy and has a reputation of being the “ultimate test of horse and rider”. Larger than normal fences and long distance mean that winners not only need stamina but sometimes also a measure of good fortune.

H – Horses, Haras Stable Doors and Hyppic Temporary Stables

As we saw earlier, “horses” and “equine” are intrinsically linked. Here’s the “science bit” from Wikipedia, “The horse (Equus ferus caballus) is one of two extant subspecies of Equus ferus. It is an odd-toed ungulate mammal belonging to the taxonomic family Equidae.” There are many different breeds of horses and ponies, in fact, you could produce another substantial A-Z list of them all. A healthy horse will on average have a lifespan of between 25 and 30 years and the human bond with these creatures has worked in tandem through wars, work, sport and entertainment – making them a very special animal indeed.

The Hyppic temporary stable is Cheval Liberte’s very own flat pack stable solution and is particularly useful for situations where horse accommodation needs to be erected very quickly. Shows, events and competitions that require overnight stays are the ideal occasion for this excellent, innovative system. The beauty of this kind of temporary stable is that it can literally and easily be assembled (from its flat pack state) in minutes, allowing you plenty of time to get everything else sorted during your time at the event. In addition to the standard model, a barn style version of this is now also available.

I – Internal stables and Ireland

Internal stables are a fantastic way of utilising space that you may already have and could save you a lot of time and money if you have been considering building new stables. If you are fortunate enough to already have some outbuildings or old barns on your property, then with a bit of thought and clever design, these buildings can provide excellent accommodation for horses. Perhaps, you had not even thought about the use that those old buildings could provide and you could be sitting on a way of earning some extra money. Basically, the space in these existing building gets converted into a stable area with partitions and stable fronts – as many as the space will safely allow. At Chevel Liberte there are two main options to consider, namely the Prestige Range and the Standard Range – both will work equally well but deliver different aesthetic finishes.

We have been shipping our products to Ireland for some time but 2014 saw us officially launch a website dedicated to our customers in Ireland. All of the same great equestrian buildings and equipment is available and it’s all easier to order than ever before. We also have dedicated websites in various countries around Europe.

J – Jumping and Jockeys

Jumping is a fundamental part in many of the equestrian based sports including, hurdle racing, steeplechasing, show jumping, eventing and even the controversial world of fox hunting. Horses are naturally strong and athletic animals and jump both great heights and distances powerfully and gracefully. Of course, it takes great discipline and training to be able to successfully ride and jump so, if you are considering setting up your very own equestrian centre or looking to train your own horse on your own private land, then the Cheval Liberte range of jump accessories might prove ideal. From storage racks and poles to galvanised uprights and even water jumps, there’s certainly enough on offer to make a very decent course for your horses.

K – ‘Sport of Kings’ and Kentucky Derby

Horse racing (or rather thoroughbred racing) is often referred to as the “Sport of Kings”. A keen interest in the sport from British Royalty and the aristocracy is considered to be the simple reason behind this moniker although to be at the top end of this sport takes plenty of money. Many kings and other members of royalty from around the world are passionate owners of thoroughbred horses.

“The most exciting two minutes in sport” is how many in the United States refer to the Kentucky Derby and it’s certainly the most prestigious race in the US and one of the most well-known flat races across the world. Making up one part of the “triple crown”, (the others being the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes) the Kentucky Derby is staged at Churchill Downs. The race is always run on the first Saturday of every May and every winner gets draped in 554 roses. If you have ever been to the race, it is likely you have encountered the world famous cocktail known as the mint julep.

L – Longchamp Racecourse and Lammtarra

Just like Churchill Downs stages the Kentucky Derby, so Longchamp Racecourse in Paris stages the illustrious Group One race, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. There are a number of different track layouts at Longchamp and the “Arc” itself is run over approximately 2400 metres in early October each year. Although this great race is the pinnacle of the sporting calendar at the venue, there are plenty of other races held here throughout the year.

Lammtarra, ridden by jockey Frankie Dettori, won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 1995. It was the horse’s fourth and final race in a short lived career – but what a career it was! Lammtarra won all of his four races starting with the Washington Singer Stakes at Newbury in 1994. The following year, he followed this up with impressive victories at the Epsom Derby and the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. After his victory in Paris, Lammtarra gracefully retired as an unbeaten champion.

M – Manoir American Barn and Mobile field shelters

The “Manoir” American Barn from Cheval Liberte is an impressive building when constructed and as the name might suggest (Manoir translates as Manor) it can be a large and substantial equestrian building for your horses, because its modular design allows for as many bays (each with 2 stalls) as you require – space permitting. Stall sizes start at 3.0 x 3.0m and go up to 4.0 x 3.0m and 3.5 x 3.5m depending on requirements. The whole idea behind an American style barn is to give you as much space as you need to comfortably carry out your duties in the stable environment.

Mobile field shelters offer an extremely versatile solution for providing shelter and shade for your horses out in the field or paddock area. The fact that they are mobile, means that not only can they moved from area to area in the same field (finding just the right spot for the time of year) but in most cases, they really shouldn’t require any planning permission (although it’s always worth checking first). A removable towing ring can be attached/detached at any end of the shelter meaning you can tow it away in your preferred direction. All in all an excellent temporary solution.

N – Newbury, Newmarket and Native Dancer

Newbury and Newmarket are just two of the racecourses in the UK to hold Group 1 races. However, whilst Newbury only holds 1 of these 32 events, Newmarket stages 9 of them (Ascot, Doncaster, Epsom, Goodwood, Haydock, Sandown and York are other Group 1 venues) and is often referred to as the “headquarters of British horse racing”. Both venues have great history with racing being held in Newmarket since the time of James 1 (1566-1625). Racing in Newbury can be traced back to 1805 or from 1905 at its current location.

Native Dancer won 21 of his 22 races – a truly remarkable feat. His only defeat was a narrow second to Dark Star in the 1953 Kentucky Derby in controversial circumstances and thus denying him the coveted US Triple Crown. (The horse later went on to win the Preakness and the Belmont) It is believed that Native Dancer was the first horse to achieve his fame via the television as technology was unveiling itself to the world.

O – Olympia – The London International Horse Show and Oberlander Horse

The London International Horse Show staged at the Olympia exhibition centre is one of the most significant and most loved equestrian events held in the UK. It’s not only popular in the UK though as it’s held in high esteem across Europe and indeed the world. In 2007, the event, with a moniker of “one of Europe’s oldest Equine Competitions”, had its 100^th anniversary. With the event traditionally held in each December, there is always a flavour of Christmas at the show.

The Oberlander is a large horse hailing from Bavaria in Southern Germany. It is believed that this particular breed descends from horses that featured during battles for the Roman Empire before it was almost bred out of existence. In 1769, the first stud farm was set up and the remainder of local stock was crossed with large horses from nearby regions. Cross breeding was stopped in 1900 and the horse known as the Oberlander today was established.

P – Ponies and Planning Permission and Prestige range and Puissance

What’s the difference between horse and a pony? If you do a Google search for this, you will find it is a question that is asked fairly frequently. The answer is in fact that a pony is a horse but it gets a distinction because in general a “pony” is deemed to be smaller than a “horse”. Anything over 14.2 hands is usually considered to be a horse and anything under that height, deemed to be a pony. However, there are also thought to be differences in behaviour and traits, for example in many cases, the tail, mane and coat of a pony is often thicker than that of a horse.

Puissance is another of the jumping disciplines that features in the sport of show jumping. It is effectively a knockout competition, where horse and rider tackle a series of high obstacles (fences/walls) and at the end of each round, those that cleared the obstacles in that round, go through to jump again – only this time the height of the obstacles is raised. If there is no outright winner after 5 rounds of competition, the victory is shared.

The Prestige Range of internal or indoor stables is aptly named as it is the pinnacle of the Cheval Liberte offering, in terms of equestrian buildings and accessories. If you are looking to add a little style to your stable yard, then the Prestige Range is the way to go. Practical and functional? Yes, but once in situ, this particular range looks stunning as well. With a range of stable fronts to choose from, you can essentially tailor your set up to your desired requirements.

Q – The Queen and Quarter Horse

The Queen’s love of horses is well known and in recent years a special programme was broadcast by the BBC called, “The Queen: A Passion for Horses”. The programme documented, the lifelong passion the Queen has had for these animals. Earlier in our A-Z we saw that Royalty and horses have had a close connection throughout history and the Queen has been no exception – riding whenever she had the chance and of course breeding thoroughbred racehorses, many of which have gone on to great success.

The Quarter Horse is the oldest breed in North America and is indeed quintessentially American and is perhaps mostly associated with the Wild West and its horse riding cowboys. It’s called a quarter horse because of its impressive speed over a quarter of a mile but it’s also a strong and versatile animal and over the years, as crossbreeding continued, they developed a good “cow sense” and became more and more popular with ranchers. It is thought that the quarter horse is perhaps the largest horse breed in the world – certainly in terms of the breed registry.

R – Red Rum and Racing

It’s impossible to go through the alphabet, get to “R” and not mention Red Rum! Red Rum without doubt remains the most famous racehorse in the UK but his legend is known around the world. The horse won 3 Grand Nationals – 1973, 1974 and 1977 while in 1975 and 1976 he finished second. Red Rum seemed to love the Aintree Racecourse and saved all his best form for the course and after he died in 1995, was buried at the legendry winning post. His death was greeted by sadness by a nation that took him to their hearts and his passing made the front pages of national newspapers.

Red Rum was at his best (without a fall in 100 races) over the steeplechase course at Aintree and steeplechasing is one of the most popular forms of horse racing in the UK. The other main form of racing is flat racing, where the test is more about either speed or endurance rather than jumping skill. Harness racing is another discipline, although this is more popular in other parts of Europe than it is in the UK.

S – Standard Range Internal Stables, Stalls and Starbox

Cheval Liberte is the home of a great range of stable buildings, stables and stalls that will help anyone with an existing yard or someone just setting a yard up to get kitted out with some really terrific equipment. Those who are looking to become horse owners and want to be involved in the equine world, albeit on a much smaller scale will be interested in our field shelters and indoor stables. The standard range is the starting point for high quality stable fronts and partitions and is renowned for its strength and durability ensuring that the comfort and safety of the horses is always paramount.

A horse stall is essentially a bay, usually designed to accommodate just one animal. Frontages and partitions are effectively the dressing and the materials that make up the stall.

If you are hosting an event that will involve horses in any way, you may prefer to hire temporary stabling rather than buying outright. The Starbox system from Cheval Liberte allows you to do just that. Starbox is renowned for its easy assembly – 192 boxes can be set up in a little over two hours which makes the system ideal for shows and festivals that need to not only be set up quickly but dismantled quickly too.

T – Trailers and Tack

Cheval Liberte also has a range of trailers designed to transport your horses in comfort and safety. Initially only available in France, these horse trailers are now widely available across the UK. There are seven different options to choose from, all featuring excellent towing ability and aluminium floors, while most also feature the Pullman V2 Suspension System.

Horse tack is essentially the equipment placed on a horse, usually in preparation for riding. So, saddles, stirrups, reins, bits, harnesses and bridles are all considered to be pieces of horse tack. Cheval Liberte supplies a range of tack packs which are essentially lockers that can be placed in your tack rooms. The lockers come in various sizes and feature wheels so that they can be moved around with ease, so if need be you can take the tack to the horse, rather than the other way around.

U – Unmol Horse

The rare breed of horse known as the Unmol is very welcome in a section of the alphabet that has some fairly slim pickings. Hailing from the northwest part of the Punjab in India, when translated, “Unmol” means “priceless” in a reference to how much of an impact these horses have on their local region. Some of the stories would have you believe that these horses were delivered to the region by none other than Alexander the Great. If true, then the animal will have Turkoman roots. Despite claims that some people still own the Unmol, sadly, there might not be any pure blood left in this breed, even though attempts have been made to protect it.

V – Ventasso Horse

The Ventasso Horse is named after the region it comes from, or rather more specifically after a mountain – Mount Ventasso which is found in the Reggio Emilia province in Italy. They have a long history of being used by the Italian army because they are known to be strong and sturdy animals. Just like the Unmol horse, the Ventasso is extremely rare.

W – War Horse

War Horse was initially a children’s book (published in 1982) written by Michael Morpurgo, which has since gone on to become a hugely successful play and film (directed by Steven Spielberg). It tells the story of a horse called “Joey” who ends up, after being purchased by the army, as a war horse on active duty on the battlefields of World War 1. His previous owner, a young boy called Albert, also eventually finds himself enlisted and against all the odds finds himself reunited with his horse Joey and eventually leads him home to safety. The play can currently be seen at the New London Theatre.

X – Xilingol Horse and Xanthus

The Xilingol Horse, unlike the Ventasso and Unmol, which are rare horses that have been almost bred out of existence, is a comparatively new breed, with a history only dating back to the 1960’s. They are found on the plains of Xilinggral Meng which is in Inner Mongolia. After cross breeding with Russian Thoroughbred and other breeds in surrounding regions, the Xilingol has become an impressive animal, noted for its speed and strength.

We have to dive into Greek mythology to come up with anything else for this section and Xanthus is (in the mythology) an immortal horse given as wedding gift to Peleus and Thetis (Ocean Goddess) by Poseidon. Another horse called Balius was also part of the gift. As the story continues, the pair of horses, Xanthus and Balius, were then give to Achilles. The horses then drew his (Achilles) chariot into the Trojan War.

Y – Yards and Yearlings

In its most basic sense, a horse yard is simply an area made up of a number of stables where horses are accommodated. However, a livery yard is somewhere you might pay a weekly or monthly rent/fee in return for your horse being kept and looked after at a particular yard. There are various kinds of livery such as full livery or part livery in which the level of service and horse care provided will differ.

A yearling is essentially a young horse. However, to be considered a yearling it must be between the ages of one and two years old. Any younger than this and it is still a foal and once the horse turns three years old, it will be classified either as a filly (female) or a colt (male). Classification changes again when the horse turns four – mare (female) and stallion (male).

Z – Zweibrucker

The Zweibrucker horse is unsurprisingly from Zweibrucken – a town in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany. Its history goes back to the middle of the 18^th century. It is believed that Napoleon himself was responsible for ensuring the continuation of the breed after seeing a number of these impressive animals. Since then, the breed has undergone several changes as at first it was bred with larger, heavier horses in order to fulfil the demands of both war and industry but more recently the breed has become a little more refined again with sport and speed in mind.