Footing Upgrade Project

GMHA will be working with Brian McNeil of E=MC Equestrian Arenas & Surfaces International to manage the footing selection and installation process.

Brian has over 15 years experience, and has completed more than 300 installations and designs worldwide.

GMHA will be starting the 2013 season with the European Geo-Textile fiber footing additive blended with a local high-quality, washed, angular sand!

This was made possible thanks to the generous support of our suppliers and sponsors St. Pierre, Inc, Pro-Equus, and Footing First! These two materials will be pre-mixed before arriving at GMHA, under the supervision of our footing consultant, Brian McNeil. The bases of all rings will be evaluated and faults will be corrected before spreading the new footing mix. 

The fiber-filament additive retains elasticity and bounce, improves drainage and dust control, and provides great traction control over a long life span. This footing has been proven to protect equine ligaments and joints, thus reducing the risk of injury and prolonging the careers of performance horses.

The addition will put GMHA’s footing on par with the top competitions sites in the country. 

While funds raised during last year’s Cross-Country Upgrade Project went a long way toward improving footing and tracks...

There are additional areas needing attention.

There are several tracks which would benefit greatly from additional work, and the far water crossing and banks require reworking to increase versatility.

A screen system will be constructed surrounding the low ends of the Dust Bowl and Upwey Ring to keep the fiber-filament blends underfoot where they belong. In the event of a flood, the screen will prevent the footing blend from leaving the ring and washing downstream.

GMHA will purchase a new arena groomer to properly maintain our new footing.

A roller will also be purchased, which will allow us to “seal” the footing during major weather events and create a firmer surface for carriage driving.

A manual of institutional knowledge will be created with the help of E=MC Equestrian Arenas to ensure consistent maintenance of our footing.

Last year, GMHA was able to purchase an aerovator to repair and maintain our turf. Additional funds are needed to institute maintenance programs to ensure the ongoing quality of turf footing.