Certification Results
September 28, 2007: AFA certification hosted by Florida State Farriers Association.
All areas and all levels of the AFA certification tests were given on September 21st and 22nd in Tallahassee, FL. Thanks to Dave and Rica Barrett of Windfall Farm for donating the use of their beautiful covered arena, and making us welcome. Their chestnut gelding "Slick" also contributed by standing for a shoeing demonstration on Friday, and again on Saturday when the need arose for an extra test horse during the practical exam.
A total of 12 candidates took part, and progressed toward their certification goals. Congratulations go out to: Brian Dunlap, CF; Shawn Bennett, CTF: and Spencer Roy, CJF, for their completion of all phases of the tests.
Wayne Allen, CJF, was our examiner, and guided us through the weekend with a sure hand. I have a new appreciation for the examiner's job, as he has to wear many hats. Wayne exemplifies the top hand with a lifetime of horseshoeing experience, who also has great people skills, is a good teacher, and can handle a briefcase full of papers, forms, duplicate forms, triplicate forms, even quadlipticate forms, if that's a word. Thanks Wayne.
Friday began with a tester update. Wayne covered a lot of ground efficiently, clarifying new and old rules, standards and specifications. Testers present were: Daryl Bean, CJF; Bryce Burnett, CJF; Rusty Jenkins, CJF; and Dennis Dunn, CJF. Those four turned in their own shoe displays, and had some good-natured fun hiding some trick "flaws" in their shoes, hoping to trip each other up. A practical exam demonstration followed for all to see, and CF shoe displays were turned in. On-site shoe modifications and oral presentations finished out the day. Daryl doubled as secretary for the registration and shoe displays. Thanks Daryl.
On Saturday, the practical exams went off smoothly, thanks in part to: timekeeper Richard Pastuck, CJF, secretaries Joanne Rasmussen and Lena Pastuck, and local horse owners Patti Brantley, Peggy Mathews, Susan Szymanski, and Suzanne Zdanovskiy, who trailered in the horses.
Every time I attend an AFA function of any sort, I always learn something new that makes me a better horseshoer, and this certification was no exception. I'm sure the same can be said by everyone there. Looking forward to next time.
Karl Boger - Tampa farrier injured
August 31, 2007: Last week will riding Karl was thrown from his horse and received a severe injury. Although all the tests are not complete, it appears his pelvic bone is broken. He is currently in Tampa General Hospital and expected home soon. Obviously the time needed for a full and complete recovery is unknown at this time. As more information is received, it will be posted on this site.
Karl has been a long time farrier in the Hillsborough County and surrounding areas for almost 30 years. He is well respected by his peers and beloved by his numerous decade plus customers. Much of Karl's and his wife Kathy's spare time is devoted to supporting the Hillsborough County Mounted Sheriff’s Posse and managing their Cowboy Challenge series.
None of you need to be reminded of how dangerous the farrier's job is, or how quickly a serious injury can affect you and your loved loved ones emotionally and financially. The Farrier's long standing tradition and it's unique brethren managed insurance policy is to share the workload, protect the customers, and contribute back to the family as needed. Please do what you can to lessen Karl's burden.
Karl & Kathy's contact information is: 1917 Maydell Ave; Tampa, FL 33619; 813-623-6137.
Other related questions can be directed to Howell Hunt at Equine Corral; 813-737-4400.
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