Partnering Your Horse is a guide to horse-appropriate training techniques and the development of mutual trust between horse and rider. The book imparts effective, humane training and conditioning in handling and riding, and combines newer, scientifically proven methods plus long-established 'kinder' techniques. Horses are an enigma. Big, strong, fast prey animals, they are sensitive, lightning reactors to danger. If they connect that danger to us, they can lose their faith in us forever. Despite this, they are 'trainable', capable of forming strong bonds with humans they trust, and welcoming us into their society as associates and even friends, although not as bosses or masters as previously believed, a concept alien to them. However, we need to work at maintaining their welcome and the best way of doing that is to be partners who persuade them to do things with us, and who do not hurt, frighten or confuse them. So much common horse sense has been lost over the years that many people don't realise that certain methods advocated in today's horse world have created an increase in behaviour problems. In Partnering Your Horse, author, Classical Riding Club trainer and Gold Award holder Susan McBane offers a proven way of riding and horse management, of restoring horses' faith and trust in us - and of producing one of the best friends we'll ever have. The book benefits from appealing and instructive illustrations by eminent equestrian artist, Maggie Raynor.

Bind: paperback

Pages: 192

Dimensions: 156 x 234 mm

Publication Date: 28-02-2023

Outdoor activities are fun, exciting, and can be found right around the corner! Get outside and ride a bike, climb a mountain, spot wildlife and go camping. Whether in the local park, your backyard, or amongst the trees in a nature preserve--the great outdoors is the place to be! Young Adventurers energizes children to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors, engage with their surroundings, find new friends and gain confidence in important experiences while learning to appreciate the wonders of nature.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 56

Dimensions: 240 x 280 mm

Publication Date: 01-04-2023

An illustrated compendium of kickass women in sport, from around the world and throughout history, including legends like Billie Jean King and modern-day superstars like Simone Biles and Dina Asher-Smith. The perfect book to inspire any sports fan. Meet your new superheroes Discover the fascinating stories behind 38 iconic and internationally renowned women in sport, all of them record-breakers, trailblazers and game-changers. Whether from the world of soccer, tennis, gymnastics, swimming, boxing or skiing, every one of these women has been a ground-breaker in her field. It's time these individuals took centre stage and had their achievements celebrated the world over. Be empowered and inspired by their extraordinary stories, their awesome achievements and their wonder-words of wisdom with this pocketbook of remarkable women from across the globe and throughout history. Among others, you will learn about the incredible lives and achievements of: Simone Biles Serena Williams Dina Asher-Smith Rachael Heyhoe Flint Jessica Ennis-Hill Nicola Adams Danica Patrick Paula Radcliffe Michelle Kwan Megan Rapinoe Ellen MacArthur Ibtihaj Muhammad Ronda Rousey Each inspiring profile also features a bespoke illustration.

Bind: paperback

Pages: 160

Dimensions: 105 x 148 mm

Publication Date: 14-11-2022

There's a certain type of rugby player who is as talented as they are bold and independent, with a sense of confidence bordering on both mischief and righteousness. Generally adored by fans, these mercurial individuals are rarely as popular with fellow players or the rugby establishment, but are often relied upon by their teammates to conjure up something special. Their ability to take teams apart with a deft kick, an outrageous side-step or a flamboyant pass often makes them marked men on the pitch, but heroes to those watching in the stands. The author of the bestselling 'Hard Men of Rugby" brings us the remarkable, thrilling and surprising stories of 20 of the greatest rugby mavericks from around the world over the last 80 years, in the ultimate book about real characters of rugby union. Featuring exclusive interviews with some of the players themselves, insights from former teammates and brand new research, this lively, engaging and highly readable book brings some of rugby's craziest moments, biggest characters and most remarkable stories to life.

Bind: paperback

Pages: 216

Dimensions: 140 x 215 mm

Publication Date: 18-10-2022

The story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, 'Half Time', to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 272

Dimensions: 140 x 215 mm

Publication Date: 28-10-2022

Once described as the worst golfer never to have won a major, Mortimer Merriweather is a complex character with virtually nothing to show for 60 years of golf at the lowest level. Decades of abject failure to strike the ball properly undoubtedly fuelled his frustration and led ultimately to him venting his ire on individuals, companies and organisations connected with the game of golf in this remarkable series of 100 letters. The result is this hilarious book of his bizarre, insulting, unsettling and plain mad golfing ideas, all sent to famous hapless recipients, illustrated with occasional cartoons. ‘Clive Agran is golf’s funniest writer.’– John Hopkins, The Times

Bind: paperback

Pages: 160

Dimensions: 129 x 198 mm

Publication Date: 07-09-2023

In 2023, to mark its 150th anniversary year, the University of Canterbury showcased 150 of its outstanding graduates. Bruce Ullrich was named as one amongst its Legends of Sport" and was described as a "fierce champion of New Zealand's interest in business and sport". My Arena is Bruce's autobiography. It navigates a life story spanning over eight decades, vividly describing Bruce's 'fierce champion' moments. Bruce Ullrich is best known for his roles in sports leadership. He was vice-chairman of the organising committee of the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, and he went on to be chef de mission for three of New Zealand's Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games teams. He was an enthusiastic advocate for hosting the Winter Olympics in New Zealand. But there is a business story as well. Bruce was admitted to partnership in an accounting firm on the day he qualified as an accountant. He later moved to governance roles and consultancy, using his expertise to foster trade and investment relationships between New Zealand and other countries - especially China. Bruce was awarded an Order of the British Empire for services to New Zealand. Throughout his life journey Bruce has remained a loyal old boy of his beloved Christchurch Boys' High School, a faithful Cantabrian, and highly patriotic New Zealander.

Bind: paperback

Dimensions: 180 x 254 mm

Publication Date: 01-11-2023

In 1949, the 10th Duke of Beaufort started Badminton Horse Trials with the idea of better preparing British riders for the Olympic Games after a disastrous showing on home ground the year before. His legacy is the world’s oldest and most prestigious horse trials, which has captured the imagination of riders worldwide and in 2024 celebrates its seventy-fifth anniversary. Badminton is still an Olympic proving ground as well as a captivating place where dreams can be made or shattered, and the one all riders want to win. The centrepiece remains the cross-country course, a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators and is an imposing challenge for riders, no matter how experienced they are, in an egalitarian sport in which men and women compete on equal terms and the amateur can take on the Olympic gold medallist. This superbly illustrated book celebrates those riders and their horses, from Sheila Willcox’s hattrick in the 1950s to New Zealander Mark Todd who came out of retirement to win three decades after his first victory; from the golden era of Richard Meade, Captain Mark Phillips, Lucinda Green and Princess Anne, to twenty-first-century heroes and heroines, including William Fox-Pitt, Pippa Funnell, Andrew Nicholson, Michael Jung, Oliver Townend and Rosalind Canter.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 224

Publication Date: 14-04-2024

The Klinkhåmer Special is probably the most popular fishing fly in the world today. It floats on the end of fly lines on salmon, trout or grayling rivers, from Britain to USA, and Scandinavia to Mongolia. This year marks the fly's 40th anniversary and to celebrate the occasion, its creator Hans van Klinken has at last written his long-awaited first book. Flyfishers for salmon, trout, grayling and coarse species will for the first time learn from Hans himself the secrets behind his miracle Klinkhåmer Special which has caught its fans hundreds and hundreds of fish: the thinking behind the design, the testing, the variations, the reasons for its remarkable success. Full instructions for tying Hans' most important flies are included in his engaging and revealing account of his life in flytying and fishing.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 352

Dimensions: 216 x 276 mm

Publication Date: 01-06-2024

For lovers of the great outdoors and those captivated by the silent allure of Canterbury’s alpine horizon, Andy Buchanan’s Alpine Panorama: A view to a climb is a celebration of nature’s majesty and a tribute to the enduring connection between man and mountain. The distant alpine skyline served as a magnetic force during Buchanan’s childhood, pulling him towards the untamed beauty of the region. Family holidays were spent tramping and skiing amidst the rugged peaks, creating enduring memories that fuelled a passion for the great outdoors. In the Buchanan family home from the Summit Road atop the Port Hills, a cherished outline sketch adorned the wall – a visual guide to 133 peaks visible from this lofty perch. Inspired by this panoramic masterpiece, Andy Buchanan hatched a retirement plan: to conquer each and every one of those peaks. What ensued was a journey of rediscovery and renewed enthusiasm, as he scaled familiar summits and ventured into uncharted territories. This beautifully illustrated narrative is more than a recounting of mountaineering triumphs; it is a testament to a lifetime’s fascination with nature’s grandeur. Through vivid words and breath-taking full-colour images, Buchanan frames the peaks within a contemporary context, weaving in Māori lore, geographic insights, historical details, and engaging anecdotes. Each page resonates with the author’s deep reverence for the alpine landscape, inviting readers to join him on a visual and literary odyssey through the soaring beauty that is the glorious backdrop beloved by all Cantabrians.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 184

Dimensions: 230 x 280 mm

Publication Date: 25-03-2024