Tag Archives: Equestrian

Equestrian Sewing on October 30

17 Monday Oct 2022

Posted by in Costuming, Equestrian, Event Announcements & Updates

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Come create garb for our Equestrians!

Are you an equestrian who could use some garb or one who has the knowledge of good riding garb to share? Are you a sewer or costumer and can lend your talents to those who need garb and want to learn to sew more? Please come join us on Sunday, October 30 from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Our castle (755 Stonegate Drive, Wexford PA 15090) is still a construction site so please park on the street and walk down. We do have two big rooms for sewing but more machines, irons, and ironing boards are welcome!

Duchess Sir Ariella

Mark Your Calendars! AEthelmearc Pennsic Happenings!

27 Wednesday Jul 2022

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Pennsic is just around the corner! What’s going on in, for and by our Kingdom? Read on for info about The Kingdom Encampment, Volunteer Opportunities, Royal Courts, Vigils and Elevations, Kingdom Activities, Populace War Points, and more! (Disclaimer: All info gathered from reputable sources, but may be incomplete, and/or subject to change.)

All About Royal

Æthelmearc Royal (“Royal” or “AE Royal” as it’s commonly called) is the heart of our Kingdom’s Activities. Located in block N04, next to First Aid Point, it features:

  • A Hospitality Tent and Table with greeters, schedules, retainer & guard signups, and a message board detailing happenings of the day and changes in schedule. You can even leave messages for Royalty, Their staff, and officers!
  • There’s also a large populace pavilion at the front where anyone can stop in and rest, with  breezes from fans, cold water, and charging ports (limited availability).
  • An inner courtyard area with a meeting tent, firepit, open space, and more (must be on the schedule to use).
  • AE Scribal tents with classes of all kinds! Check the class list and message board!
  • A private area in the back where our beloved Royals live (must be invited).

Volunteers Needed for the Kingdom!

Æthelmearc Royal is an incredible resource, but it’s big and robust! Something of that grand caliber doesn’t spring forth from the field like Athena! Many volunteers are needed for both set up and tear down. It takes a while, but it can seem like a breeze if there’s lots of people to help. Consider spending a couple hours:

  • Set up is Sunday, 7/31, starting at 10am (will go into the afternoon)
  • Tear down is Friday, 8/12, starting at 10am (will go into the afternoon)

Volunteers are also needed to staff the Hospitality table. Some might call it the cushiest volunteer opportunity at Pennsic. A nice seat in the shade and breeze, with plenty of water, opportunity to charge your phone, and lots of smiling faces! Plus, you’re in the know!

You can also sign up to volunteer a little of your time to retain or guard for Their Majesties or Highnesses. There will be sign-ups at Hospitality, or better yet, contact Their staffs ahead of time! (Sign up for the King & Queen, Sign up for the Prince & Princess). You’ll see so many sides of our War you may not see otherwise!

Of special note: The Herald’s Office and Signet will have a backlog scroll binder at hospitality – look at it for your backlog scrolls and your friends, too! Leave a message for the Heralds & Scribes to let them know how to get that beautiful new scroll to you!

Let’s Celebrate! Kingdom Celebrations!

Come participate in Opening Ceremonies! Sing and march and show the Knowne World who we are! We have the BEST seats in the house, as the home Kingdom! Muster 11am middle Saturday at AE Royal (bring water, shade, and your Kingdom and Baronial colors!). We’ll march out together in time for the ceremonies to begin by the Castle at noon.

The Æthelmearc Kingdom Party, one of the most anticipated gatherings of the War, organized by THL Sumayya al Ghaziyya, with food by Lady Sorcha MacKenzie… This years theme is Carnival! We will have delicious foods, libations, games, favors from our potters, fire performers, and a special musical guest (yeah, it’s totally that one)! Monday 8/8, 8pm, AE Royal.

Let Us Entertain You! And Fight You!

Our amazing populace is talented, indeed! Check out these amusements, put on by our people, for the enjoyment of all!

  • Wed Peace Week (8/3) come all bards for the Haakon Oaktall Anniversary Bardic Circle in AE Royal
  • For the Scribes, Monday 8/8 from 2 to 6pm, join the Æthelmearc Scribal Tea to meet and greet your fellow scribes! In Scribal Tent 1 in AE Royal
  • Seneschals, come for the AE Seneschal Happy Hour (No Business Allowed) 5pm Mon 8/8 in AE Royal (big tent)
  • Mon War Week (8/8) 7:30pm – the Debatable Choir performs at the Performing Arts tent
  • Mon War Week (8/8) 9pm – I Genesii (THE GREATEST COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE TROUPE IN THE KNOWNE WORLD) performs at the Performing Arts tent, as they search for their missing Vecchi. We won’t reprint the entire announcement here, but it does involve the word “sploosh”!

Enjoy participating in, or spectating these special sporting events, put on by our people:

  • Rapier Novice Tournament – super fun! Rapier novices (less than 5 years fencing, no Kingdom fencing awards, no tourney wins) will NOT want to miss this! A perennial favorite organized by our own Master Po Silvertop the Rogue – so MANY PRIZES! Wed 8/10 at 10am, Rapier field.
  • Need more fencing? Our Kingdom hosts the Ladies’ Rapier Tourney from 10 to noon on Monday 8/10 (inclusive of all non-male genders)
  • Oh yes, yes it is! The Return of Helga Ball! Sun 8/7, 6-9pm. Let’s just say it involves some folks in aprons viciously defending their territory with a cabbage. It’s amazing! No experience necessary. No equipment needed besides an apron (cabbages provided). Ladies team sport, 18+ only.
  • Youth combatants pay heed! Tarl’s Youth Polearm Tournament is Monday (8/8) from 7 to 9pm on the field.
  • But wait, there’s more! Wed 8/10 from 6 to 8pm, adult and youth fighters team up for the Æthelmearc Tag Team Tournament. It’s not one to miss, and a favorite of our youth fighters!

Vigils and Courts and Elevations, OH MY!

The largest Æthelmearc Royal Court at Pennsic is Tuesday of War Week (8/9) at 6pm in the AE Royal Encampment (CHANGE of venue!!).

There will be multiple additional Courts throughout the War. Here they are presented copy-and-pastable, and organized by the known Æthelmearc Vigils and Elevations (other awards will be happening at these times, too!):

THL Renata le Rouge: Vigil Sat 8/6, 6pm, Debatable Lands N10 (Fletchers). Elevation to Laurel at additional Kingdom Court Sun 8/7, 6pm AE Royal at Debatable Lands Party (Baronial Court at 4:30). [Note: Morien McBain & Michael of Northwood will be sent to vigil from this Kingdom Court.]

THL Ottlige Rappoltsweiler: Vigil Mon 8/8, 4pm, Hunters Home encampment on Mt Eislinn. Elevation to Laurel at main Kingdom Court Tues 8/9, 6pm AE Royal

Master Morien MacBain: Vigil at Sun 8/7, 6:30pm, Lusty Wench camp E17. Induction to Laurel at additional Kingdom Court Monday 8/8 6pm (before Kingdom party) at AE Royal.

Sir Michael of Northwood: Vigil Sun 8/7 evening, at Kynges Bridge camp. Induction to Pelican at main Kingdom Court Tues 8/9, 6pm AE Royal

Mistress Caroline of Burgundy: Vigil Wed 8/10, 11am (after Novice Tourney), Rapier Field. Induction to Master of Defense at additional Kingdom Court Wed 8/10 ~4pm Rapier Field [Note: Vigil is in combination with vigils of THL Guillaume and Countess Kathryn, lately of the Mid]

THL Guillaume le Noir: Vigil Wed 8/10, 11am (after Novice Tourney), Rapier Field. Elevation to Chivalry at additional Kingdom Court Thurs 8/11 ~1pm (after the Bridge Battles) Heavy Field [Note: Vigil is in combination with vigils of Mistress Caroline and Countess Kathryn, lately of the Mid]

Order Meetings and Booze

The Æthelmearc Brewers’ Guild Bar is open for Order Meetings! And also various events in and about AE Royal throughout War Week. Huzzah!

Laurel Meeting, AE Royal, Sat 8/6 at 10am
Pelican Meeting, AE Royal, Sat 8/6 at 5pm
Gage Meeting, AE Battlefield Pavilion, Wed 8/10, 2pm
Chivalry Meeting, AE Battlefield Pavilion, Wed 8/10, 3pm

YOU Can Help Us Win!

In addition to joining your comrades-at-arms on the heavy and fencing fields of honor (see schedule for details), in the many field War Point opportunities, you can score some points in non-field activities as well!

  • A&S Populace War Point – Take or teach classes, most of War! Teaching a class gets you 5 points (5 points total no matter how many classes you teach), attending a class earns one point per class attended. Make sure to add your tally mark at the end of your class! Read more!
  • Archery & Thrown Weapons Populace War Points – throughout War Week! Check the Pennsic Martial Schedule for details.
  • Service War Point – it definitely exists, but remains mysterious at this time. All we know is that there is a Google document to record your service hours to the War.

Of General Interest

Pennsic War will be following Æthelmearc’s Covid Policies. You cannot get into the War without proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test within 72 hours from a medical facility. You’ll need to mask up at troll and other areas (but not most). Read the FAQs here.

The A&S War Champs War Point will be held Wed 8/10, from about 10am to 5pm in the Great Hall – cheer on our team!

Would you like to help the War itself? You can volunteer for the War! Just go up to your area of interest and volunteer. [Hint: Children’s Point is greatly needing some folks!). Read a bit more about the options here.

Families take note! The Known World Children’s Fete (Ages 4+) returns on Wed 8/10 from 10am to 1pm (registration begins at 9am) in the Great Hall! Arts, crafts, games, entertainment, snacks, and more! Read more here.

At 4pm, Wed 8/10, there will be a Known World Equestrian Meeting in AE Royal

The Memorial Ship Ceremony will be Thurs 8/11 from 1p to 6pm. Visit White Wolf & Phoenix merchant booth for details. It will feature in particular for Viscount Edward Zifran of Gendy. He was a long time icon of the Pennsic War, the East Kingdom, and friend to many here in our Kingdom.

Feel the need to run? The Unofficial Half Marathon starts at 7am middle Saturday, meet at First Aid Point (right by AE Royal!)

Want to know more about Pennsic happenings? Check out the full schedule here. Other resources (including a printable handout, event guide, and university booklet) HERE.

SEE YOU THERE!

Æthelmearc Equestrians Claim “Victory over the Unseen Enemy”!

15 Tuesday Dec 2020

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Greetings form the Captain of Horse of the Debatable Lands and Equestrian Marshal in Charge of the Virtual Equestrian Challenge “Victorious over the Unseen Enemy”. Thank you, Brandubh and Hilderun, Baron and Baroness of the Debatable Lands for sponsoring and judging this event. We would not have been able to do this without you. Thank you.

A close-call sighting of the Unseen Enemy…

I cannot express how proud I am of all the riders who stepped out and saddled their horse to defend our lands. This was a long journey, as it had three different parts to it. We enjoyed watching the entries and were cheering everyone on, from behind the screen. Your creativity and artistic abilities that went into your entry left us often speechless or laughing. We could not have asked for better protection for our lands. With this said, it was a difficult task to score each entry, as all of you brought incredibly unique skills into the battle.

Victory scroll by Gesa van Wellenstein

From Æthelmearc, Simon á Fjárfelli was out youngest contestant and deserved the title: Youth Champion for his bravery and skills at arms on Audrey. His mother, Elska á Fjárfelli scored a 43 on her Icelandic steed Greni frá Blasted Rock. Her artistic skills and story line gave her the title: Most Creative Contestant.

Simon á Fjárfelli and Audrey

“Simon and I are brand-new to the wonderful world of SCA equestrians. This is our first foray into equestrian games, and we had a blast! Our ponies were a bit puzzled by all the distractions that suddenly had grown up along their well-known trails, but took the entertainment in stride. Greni has a long career as a trail pony, with the occasional hunter pace and trail trial challenges (when we had transportation). Audrey is new to us, and this, but took all the merriment in stride as well as good care of her not-so-tiny-anymore human, while making sure her barn-mom was never far out of reach (yes, I have trouble filming as she is using me as her emotional support animal!). We are all looking forward to the start of in-person events, where we can be taught how to use our weapons properly.”

To view the virtual entries, simply click on the link to go to a YouTube video!

Simon á Fjárfelli of the Dominion of Myrkfaelinn with Audrey: https://youtu.be/KyvIaKiFRNg
Elska á Fjárfelli with Greni frá Blasted Rock: https://youtu.be/08wf0JOUm7A

Master of all Tricks scroll by Gesa van Wellenstein

From the Middle Kingdom we had two strong worriers who came to our aid. Lancer Eschina McDonyll on Max scored a 48. Her showmanship and Max’s trick performance earned her a title of: Master of all Tricks.

“I am Lancer Eschina MacDonyll of the Middle Kingdom (Shire of Mugmort). I’ve been in the SCA about 5years. My fearless steed is Maximillian better known as Max the Wonder Horse. He’s a 23-year young draft cross who loves to try new things. We play in riding challenges, driving challenges, chariot archery, mounted combat, and just started jousting in 2019. Max pulls a 14th century Scottish- style chariot. We are the current Baronial equestrian champions for the Middles Marches. Mundanely we also enjoy jumping, hunter paces and versatile horse competitions, and trail riding with our faithful canine sidekicks. Max has trained and authorized several new riders into the equestrian games.”

Lancer Eschina MacDonyll of the Middle Kingdom with Maximillian: https://youtu.be/1f4gve88EAI

Fellow Midrealm partner Captain CuMhara o’Holyhead kept all of us laughing through her journey to victory. Her master steed Lord Magic was supervised and supported by Freedom and his canine friend. She rode on and collected 55 points total during her journey.

Captain CuMhara o’Holyhead with Lord Magic

“I currently serve as Her Majesty Midrealm’s equestrian champion, although I’m pretty sure I was chosen because I have the best horse. I do, however, have strong feelings for Æthelmearc. I grew up in Steubenville OH, which is almost the Debatable Lands. I was also given permission by my Queen to serve in the guard of HRM Maurya, on the field at Pennsic, many years ago. Magic the Incomparable is a Speak up for Horses rescue who just wishes I would let him open up when we run barrels. He has his Award of Hooves, a Midrealm award to recognize animals who have served in some way. He loves kids because they are light and usually have treats. He will knock over any drink containers to see if they have stout beer or cider. He will drink mead or Gatorade in a pinch. He has won more tournaments than I have, even though I’ve been competing much longer.”

Captain CuMhara o’Holyhead with Lord Magic: https://youtu.be/NxKm7_LgBPk

The highest score was achieved by Yarden from the Debatable Lands. He entered his quest on Max and debited the enemy with his final blow. His total score was 55.5 and was awarded the title: Victorious over the Unseen Enemy.

Gesa shared with the Æthelmearc Gazette that “Yadren (Jordan Helmick) is a great rider who has been jousting with me for 3 years. He is part of the Barony of the Debatable Lands and used to come regular to my practice and events. He joined the sca as a member last year June. Moose has been difficult and is doing really well now. Yarden and his lady friend Nicole are awesome horse people. I think he came to my jousting clinic 5 years ago and kept on showing up!”

Yadren of the Debatable Lands with Moose: https://youtu.be/hV_taxX-BII

 

The unseen enemy had no chance to hide when our lands are defended with such mighty force. It was an honor and my pleasure to be a part of this journey. Until we meet again.

Your servant and protector Gesa van Wellenstein Captain of the Horse of Debatable Lands

Victory scroll for Yadren & Moose by Gesa van Wellenstein

Kingdom Equestrian Championship in the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands

05 Friday Jul 2019

Posted by in Awards, Competitions, Equestrian

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Fiona of Hartstone and Superman, photograph by Sidney Green

On Saturday, June 29, the event “A Kingdom for my Horse” was hosted by the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands. This event included various activities, including equestrian. The event hosted the Æthelmearc Kingdom Equestrian Championship as well as a challenge/obstacle course and jousting. The Equestrian Marshal in Charge was THL Gesa von Wellenstein and the Championship portion was conducted by Baron Tigernach mac Cathail.  Several riders and horses from the Kingdom competed for the Championship and were joined by several out-of Kingdom riders who participated in the day’s various activities.  The following report was submitted by the Equestrian Marshal in charge of the event (with some editing).

Thundering hooves under the burning sun, in a land were dragons fly, riders of Æthelmearc showed off their skills of arms throughout the day. The day’s first activity was a challenge/obstacle course. Lord Nohaaj was victorious in his quest to slay the dragons and rescue our dearest Baroness Hilderun. Second place was Victoria, followed by John, Fiona, Katja and Katrina.

Lord Nohaaj receives his lance during the Jousting. Photograph by Eilonora inghean an Bhaird

Their Majesties and Royal Highnesses were impressed with the riding performances in front of the court. This was the start of the Kingdom Championship and consisted of the competition known as “Riding Before the Prince.” Recreating an activity from period, this competition challenges the riders to display their skills and that of their horses to their best abilities in order to impress the court. Mistress Gozen was able to impress everyone the most and received the highest scores. She was followed closely in scores by Lady Gesa, Fiona and Catrina. Next in line were THL Aaliz and Victoria.

Mistress Gozen on Rex, Photograph by Lady Pertolongan Kucingyn

The second phase of the championship was a challenge course called Chivalry in Training. In this phase, riders completed a timed course which involved a variety of obstacles and martial targets. THL Aaliz was the master of all skills at arms. Lady Gesa was second, with Mistress Gozen third followed by Fiona and Lord Nohaaj, on his brave war horse Maple.

Lady Aaliz wowed the crowd, holding the unicorn in her teeth, aboard Thelma. Photograph by Lady Sile inghean chein

Following the Championship competition, the court and populace of Æthelmearc and friends gathered to watch the joust. Trampling horses and shattering lances of 6 competitors kept the crowed well entertained. John, Catrina and Victoria were eliminated during the first round. Lord Nohaaj, Katja and Fiona advanced to the second round of the joust. Horses charged, lances shattered, and the crowd cheered. Lord Nohaaj emerged victorious in the joust.

Katja Borsukska and the young jousting mule Frida the Fearsome. Photograph by Eilonora inghean an Bhaird

 

Scores were tabulated for the riders who completed all portions of the day’s activities, and the winner of the day, with the highest total score was Fiona.

Fiona on Superman. Photograph by Lady Sile inghean chein.

Our Kingdom was enriched this day by the comradery, chivalry and mounted skills demonstrated by the riders. As the Lady of the Lyst, I would like to thank everyone who traveled to this event and rode with us. I wanted to create a fun equestrian day that provided our populace a small view inside of what we do with our four legged partners. I could not have done it without all of you who participated and helped out on the ground, assisting the riders and marshals.

Until next time, Lady of the Lyst, THL Gesa van Wellenstein

THL Gesa on Daisy. Photograph by Lady Sile inghean chein.

Court was held following a procession of Royalty on horseback which has become customary whenever horses are present. At court several equestrians were called to appear before Their Majesties,  Royal Highnesses and the Baron and Baroness. Mistress Gozen was called forward and named the King’s Equestrian Champion. As the regalia was not present at the time, it will be delivered and presented at a later time. Lady Gesa was called forth and named the Queen’s Equestrian Champion and vested with the regalia by Baron Tigernach.  Both received scrolls to commemorate the occasion. THL Aaliz was called forward and declared the winner of the Chivalry in Training portion and was presented with a scroll and belt favor. Mistress Gozen was named the winner of the “Ride Before the Prince” portion and also presented with a scroll and belt favor. Lord Nohaaj received recognition for his wins in the Dragon contest and the Joust, receiving scrolls and favors for his accomplishment. Lady Gesa was called back into court and inducted into the Order of the Golden Lance of Æthelmearc. (And hence in the above account, her name was corrected to reflect this new title.)  The Barony recognized both THL Gesa and Nohaaj for their skills and inducted them into the Order of the Iron Comet as well.

The equestrians of Æthelmearc invite you to join them at the next event which hosts horses and join us in the pageantry and excitement of these activities.

–Mistress Shishido Tora Gozen

Tragic News from the Equestrian Community

07 Sunday Oct 2018

Posted by in Announcements, Tidings

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From THL Aaliz, Kingdom Equestrian Marshal:

It is with heavy heart that I inform you that Master Terafan Greydragon, Society Equestrian Officer, has passed after receiving an injury at an equestrian event in the Midrealm. His loss will be felt by the entire equestrian community.

Greydragon

Statement from the SCA Corporate Office:

On Saturday, October 6, a brother in arms to many of us lost his life in the pursuit of our game. The Society’s Equestrian Marshal, Master Terafan Greydragon, died while competing in an equestrian game at an SCA event in Kentucky. The Society is investigating the matter and is fully cooperating with the authorities. The Society Marshal is conducting an investigation to determine what might have led up to the accident, and what specific measures should be taken to ensure that this does not occur again. Upon the completion of our investigation, the SCA will make the results available to the public. We have reached out to Terafan’s family to express our support for them at this moment of loss. We ask that Terafan and his family be held in your hearts.

Equestrians at the Carnegie Science Center Demonstration

06 Tuesday Mar 2018

Posted by in Arts & Sciences, demos, Equestrian

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2018 March 2 demo 4

The Equestrian display

It may be winter, but the Æthelmearc Equestrians have not been idle. On March 2, as part of the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands’ demo which was conducted at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, PA, the equestrians of Æthelmearc set up and displayed the tools of their trade. The Coordinator for the equestrian portion of the demo was Isabel Johnston who organized the various portions of the display. She and her husband, Tomas, also constructed several clever devices to facilitate displaying various components of the display and creating a fun and inter-active game for participants.

Tomas solved one of the difficult questions that faces equestrian artisans when trying to properly display “barding” or “caparisons” which are used to cover and decorate the horse. These historical “garments” had a variety of uses and functions in period. Because most A&S type events are not conducive to bringing in a horse to model the barding, it is difficult for the artisans to display these items to full effect. Tomas came up with a portable and life sized “dummy” to display a set of Mistress Gozen’s full barding which completely covers the horse from head to —- hoof.

2018 March 2 demo 5

A life sized display of tournament equipment.

The other interesting creation of Tomas was a mock horse that moved. Constructed of a wooden saddle rack and securely mounted on a sturdy wooded platform with wheels, this device was outfitted with saddle, bridle and barding complete with bells. Attendees to the Science Center’s Over 21 Event were treated to an opportunity to mount the “horse” armed with a sword, and attack a series of mounted heads while being pulled through our mock tourney field. This replicated a popular game on the SCA equestrian tourney field commonly called “Behead the Enemy.” This activity was extremely well received, with a constant stream of participants most who waited patiently in line for several minutes for an opportunity to “take a few swings.” Participants included SCA demo participants as well as the young and quite elderly visitors to the Center. Several of the equestrians worked hard in this area of the display including Isabel, Lady Rowena Macara, Lady Leah of the Debatable Lands, and Jackie Caulkins, one of our newest equestrians. They pulled the attendees through the course on the “horse.” Spouses and friends took many candid photographs in this area.

March 2 demo 2

Besides this fun activity, attendees were treated to a display of arts and sciences by Mistress Gozen including a display of barding types in miniature as well as a display of the items needed in a tournament by a mounted rider. This included a medieval styled saddle, bridle, full barding, banners, surcoat and helmet mantle. Lady Gesa set up a display of jousting equipment. Participants were very fascinated by all these period recreations and asked many good questions.

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The evening was an excellent opportunity to introduce these people to the wonderful world that is the SCA. Some folks came in garb, some wearing things from their cosplay experiences while others said they had the clothes from prior Halloween costumes. The Science Center allowed the SCA to display various crafts and activities on all the floors of their Center. On the Lower floor, where the equestrians were located, there was also heavy fighting and a local Steel Sword Fighting organization. All the areas were well attended and appreciated by the attendees. We, the equestrians of Æthelmearc were grateful to the Center and the Barony, especially Lady Zianna who coordinated the entire project, for the opportunity to bring our craft to the populace of Pittsburgh!

Article written by Mistress Gozen and the photographs were taken by Baron Friderich Swartzwalder and Isabel Johnston.

The Center’s official press release about the demo can be found here.

A Message from The Kingdom Equestrian Officer Regarding New Wavier Requirements

20 Saturday Jan 2018

Posted by in Equestrian, Officer Announcements

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Equestrian activities at the Championship in 2014

The following information was provided by THL Aaliz de Gant, the Kingdom Equestrian Officer based on an announcement by the Society Equestrian Officer:

At the request of the SCA Board of Directors, a new waiver project has recently been completed. This project involved updating waivers to be used to events which include equestrian activities. In the past, waivers were handled in one of two ways. If horses were limited to areas that were restricted to equestrians, the MIC could opt to have only those interacting with horses complete the equestrian waiver. If the event allowed for more interaction, those members with blue cards would sign the additional equestrian waiver at troll. Those without blue cards would sign both the equestrian waiver and the society liability waiver.

Under the new policy, a combined wavier which includes both equestrian and society waiver language has been created which will be signed at troll for all attendees of an event which includes equestrian activities. In other words, the combined waiver will be signed by those with a blue card on file with the society as well as those without a blue card. There will be no need for event attendees without a blue card on file to sign a second waiver.

Due to equine liability laws in various states, there are state specific waivers for two of the states in Æthelmearc. For events held in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, state specific waivers are required. Events held in New York will use the standard society waiver. The Equestrian Marshal in Charge of the event at which equestrian activities are taking place will need to sign each waiver. Waivers will then be sent to the waiver clerk in the normal fashion.

The new waivers can be found at here under Adult Equestrian Waivers.

Officer Interview – Æthelmearc Kingdom Equestrian Officer

25 Saturday Feb 2017

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aaliz

THL Aaliz de Gant

This is another installment of the Gazette’s Officer Interviews. This installment introduces the current Kingdom Equestrian Officer, THL Aaliz de Gant who answered the following questions regarding her involvement in the SCA, the equestrian program and her thoughts on equestrian activities in the Kingdom.

How long have you been in the SCA and what was your first event?

My first event was Pennsic 29. I started getting more involved in a local group after Pennsic 30 though.

What has made you stay?

The people – I have friends that became family. I can’t imagine life without them.

How did you become interested in equestrian activities and become the Equestrian Officer?

I’d been part of a couple households that were pretty much fighting households.  When they fell apart as households sometimes do, I found myself at loose ends right around the time a demo came up for equestrian activities.  I authorized at that event and was thrilled to be able to combine my SCA life and my horses. It is not every day I can manage to combine my expensive and all consuming hobbies.

What is the role of the Kingdom Officer for Equestrian?

Bringing policy from the Society Equestrian Officer to the Kingdom, setting and ensuring rules and policies are being followed within the kingdom, encouraging involvement, refereeing squabbles should they arise, warranting marshals, conducting marshal training, and generally being involved and attending events.

Do you have a general philosophy about your job?

I think that I should be able to prepare people to get involved in equestrian events if they express interest. I think the people within the program should “own” their program.

How would someone get involved in equestrian activities?

Talk to me or to any of the equestrians and we would be more than happy to discuss how to get you involved. If you don’t have a horse and simply want to be around them, we always need ground crew at events. If you have horses, we’d love to have you involved. If you want to start something in your area, talk to us and we’ll try to see what we can do.

aalizWhat is an example of something you think the general populace should know about horses, but don’t?

This is harder — I’ve had horses my whole life so I’m never quite sure what people do and don’t know. But I think one of the hardest things to understand about equestrian is that there are two of us that have to work together – the rider and the horse. If either of us is having a bad day, it’s going to be a lot more obvious than in other disciplines. The best rider in the field isn’t always the one that will come out on top because horses have a mind of their own. You can practice hard, then have your horse decide on that day that it’s afraid of equipment that he/she has seen a thousand times. But the more practiced a horse/rider combo are the more they understand each other and the less you’ll see cues going on, in general.  When both horse and rider work together it makes it look like what they are doing is effortless.

Where do you see the Equestrian program going in the SCA or the kingdom – Are there any changes coming?

Society wise, there is a lot of encouragement and interest for more jousting. We have a couple of people in Æthelmearc who are very interested in jousting and they are working towards getting more of it in our Kingdom.

What is the best part about equestrian activities in the SCA?

A sword in one hand and reins in the other and people that think it’s just as incredible as you do.

THL Aaliz fighting Mistress Arabella on horseback.

THL Aaliz fighting Mistress Arabella on horseback.

More SCA 50 Year News!

24 Friday Jun 2016

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The SCA 50 Year Celebration continues in the Middle Kingdom with a variety of activities. Thanks to Viscountess Hodierna Miriglee of Lincludin, who was the second Princess of Æthelmearc, and to THLady Rachel Dalicieux for their reports and photos!

Alas, rain on Tuesday and Wednesday caused the closure of some venues including archery and siege, but participants enjoyed many other activities in the many buildings and arenas available on the fairground site. There were crafts in the arts building including pottery, fiber arts, and block printing, as well as numerous children’s activities.

One record already set by the 50 Year Celebration is that it currently holds the largest gathering of equestrians in the history of the Known World. There were mounted combat tournaments and other competitions over the course of the week.

Many horses arena

Equestrians at SCA 50 Year. Photo by THLady Maeve ni Siurtain.

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Mounted combat. Photo by THLady Maeve ni Siurtain.

The Queens of the Known World participated in one particularly unusual equestrian competition. They were driven in horse-drawn chariots and had to complete tasks much as in normal equestrian competitions, knocking over artificial “enemies” with beanbags.  So of course the Æthelmearc contingent in the stands took the opportunity to cheer Queen Ariella on with chants of “Oh, No, Rock to the Face!” each time she struck a target. While our queen acquitted herself well, the winner of the competition was Queen Adrielle of Ealdormere.

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Queen Ariella in the chariot tournament. Photo by Mistress Hilderun Hugelmann.

One of the marvels on site was the “Great Machine.” Powered by dogs, it can do a variety of work. One of its creators, Master Sylard of Eagleshaven from Ealdormere, demonstrated using it to drive a Da Vinci Hammer and transform a bog iron bloom to iron that can be worked.

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Sir Stefan Ulfkelsson of Æthelmearc also spent some time working bog iron at 50 Year, though without the benefit of the machine. Instead, he had assistants working a bellows to heat a charcoal fire so he could smelt the bog ore into iron using a Viking-era bloom forge. He reports that he was able to achieve about 25% efficiency of product in to iron out, which is very good for this technique.

Assistants working the bellows at the forge. Photo by Master Fridrikr Tomasson.
Sir Stefan Ulfkelsson at the forge. Photo by Master Fridrikr Tomasson.

Photos by Master Fridrikr Tomasson.

Other indoor activities have included a Boat Battle, a Squire’s Tournament, a Known World Hafla, and Children’s A&S Day.

Of interest to both scribes and bards, SCA 50 Year marked the unveiling of a book that was created by a group of over 50 Midrealm artisans in a project called “Calf to Codex.” Spearheaded by Master Johannes von Narrenstein, they began five years ago with deer that were butchered by hand and their hides processed into parchment. The parchment was then distributed to numerous scribes who painted and calligraphed the text using handmade oak gall ink and period pigments, and in some cases even handmade paint brushes and of course, quill pens. The text includes Midrealm history, stories, and songs written by a score of bards of the Middle, including such luminaries as Mistress Marian of Heatherdale, Duke Finvarr de Taahe, and Duke Laurelen Darksbane. Once complete, the parchment pages were gathered into quires, sewn together to form a book, and bound using hand-planed quarter-sawn oak panels and a tooled leather cover with handmade metal reinforcements and clasps. The threads used to sew the book together were made from flax grown, harvested, combed, and spun by members of the Society. Even the tools used to line the leather cover were hand-made. At SCA 50 Year, Master Johannes presented the 112-page book at a performance area where bards performed music and stories from it.

Master Johannes says of the book’s purpose: “It will be used like a book should be – read from, to us, at events and gatherings. We will have a custodian to take care of it, and invite readers to read to us from it.”

The photos below, by Viscountess Elashava bas Riva, are stunning. Gentles interested in a closer look at the project can learn more on the group’s Facebook page.

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One of the more popular events of 50 Year was the “Founders Meet and Greet.” A group of five gentles who were present at the first tournament, including its hostess, Countess Diana Listmaker, told stories of the Society’s founding and early days and answered questions. They are undoubtedly the celebrities of the event and have graciously had their pictures taken with scores of people from all over the Known World.

Founders

Some of the Society’s Founders at SCA 50 Year. Back Row: Countess Diana Listmaker, Duke Henrik of Havn, Count Stefan de Lorraine, and Baroness Marianna of Silversea. Front row: Viscountess Hodierna and Duke Frederick of Holland. Photo courtesy of Viscountess Hodierna.

Court Report: Palfreys and Polearms

14 Tuesday Jun 2016

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Documented from the Rolls and Files of the Coram Regibus of Thomas Byron and Ariella, Rex et Regina Æthelmearc: Being a True Record of the Business of His Majesty’s Royal Court at Palfreys and Polearms, 28 May, Anno Societatis LI, in the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael, as recorded by Dagonell Whitehorn and Cigfran Heronter

His Majesty asked for a moment of silent remembrance in honor of Baron Malcolm Fitzwilliam.

His Majesty commanded that Maple be brought into His presence and He declared her to be a Sylvan Steed of Æthelmearc.  Yes, Maple is a horse.

His Majesty called THL Maeve ni Siurtain into court and declared that, with the advisement of The Princess Royale Leah, she had been chosen as Queen’s Equestrian Champion.  Scroll by Rowena Moore, Baroness Alex, and Ana Ianka Lisitsina.

His Majesty called Lady Aaliz de Gant into court and proclaimed her the winner of the equestrian competition and King’s Equestrian Champion.  Scroll by Rowena Moore, Baroness Alex, and Ana Ianka Lisitsina.

When Lady Aaliz rose to leave, His Majesty bid her stay as he was not quite done with her yet.  Having heard of her great skill in the equestrian arts, he inducted her into The Order of the Golden Lance.  Scroll by Baroness Ekaterina.

Her Majesty gave leave to Their Excellencies Magnus and Miriel of the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael to hold court.  When the skies turned black, both courts were suspended and resumed 10 minutes thereafter in the great horse barn.

When royal court resumed, His Majesty commanded that due to the dirt and … other things… on the floor of the horse barn, his subjects were forbidden to kneel.

It should be noted that Rhys Benbras ap Dafydd had been called into baronial court and made Chancellor of the Exchequer for the barony. His Majesty declared that this was not proper and a commoner should not be allowed to handle money. Therefore His Majesty had no choice but to award him arms and declare him Lord Rhys for his hard work in setup, cleanup, and as troll and reservations clerk at previous events. Scroll by Baroness Ekaterina.

His Majesty desired words with Tadgh Mag Uidhir. Having heard words of his great prowess with heavy weapons, skill with armor making, and the general enthusiasm he brought to every event, His Majesty awarded him Arms.  Scroll by Theodulf FitzRenault.

Lord Wolfgang Starke was summoned before His Majesty.  For his fine skill in fencing, he was made a Companion of the Order of the Golden Alce.  Scroll by Baron Caleb Reynolds.

His Majesty requested that THL Govindi Dera Ghazi Khan come before him.  Having heard of her many works in organizing and running events, holding baronial offices, marshalling thrown weapons, and creating scrolls he was moved to induct her into the Order of the Millrind.  Scroll by Baroness Ekaterina.

His Majesty commanded the presence of Mistress Irene von Schmetterling.  For her many fine works in the fiber arts – sewing, wool spinning, and dyeing – she was presented with a writ for the Order of the Laurel.  Writ by Jacqueline de Molieres, Janos Meszaros, and Fredeburg von Katzenellenbogen.

The Princess Royale Leah entered court and spoke of the gentle who had most inspired her that day.   Not only was today the first time that m’lady Isobel Johnson had entered an equestrian competition, it was also her very first SCA event.  She was given a token of remembrance by Her Highness.

His Majesty thanked the staff of the event for all their hard work and asked that all the scribes, illuminators, and calligraphers rise in their seats that they might be cheered by the populace.  Gentles who had received scrolls in either court were reminded to take a scroll carrier to protect their scroll and to have their scroll photographed before leaving.  There being no further business before the court, His Majesty’s Court was closed.