International Forging Competition Entries Open

World Championship Blacksmiths is accepting entries for the 2024 Blacksmith World Championships at Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta.

The Blacksmith World Championships will be Sept. 4-8, 2024, during the “Masters” — a CSIO 5* Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) show jumping tournament — at Spruce Meadows. The prize pool exceeds $190,000 CND.

Cheshire, England, farrier Matthew Randles won the crown by amassing 660 points over the 5-day event. Dillon Crane of Waxhaw, N.C., is the reserve champion with 601 points, while Steven Beane of Yorkshire, England, rounds out the top three with 591 points. The tournament awarded $136,000 USD in prize money, including $75,000 to the winner.

The entry fee is $800 USD. To enter, email worldchampionshipblacksmiths@gmail.com.

Kerckhaert Acquires Save Edge, will continue manufacturing in Ohio

The Royal Kerckhaert Horseshoe Factory is adding a “celebrated manufacturer of hoof rasps,” the company announces.

“With the integration of Save Edge into our house of brands, we aim to enhance our footprint in the market,” Kerckhaert says. “This acquisition represents our unwavering commitment to providing you with quality products and cutting-edge technology. Combining the manufacturing knowledge of Save Edge and Kerckhaert will carry this commitment into the future.”

Save Edge manufacturing operations will continue in Xenia, Ohio, and maintain its employees.

The past few years have been uncertain for Save Edge. The company announced in October 2022 that it would close its doors by the end of that year.

“We have made the difficult decision to start the process of ending operations at Save Edge over the next few weeks, up to possibly the end of this year,” according to the email. “We would like to humbly thank you for your business and years of support. It’s an honor to serve this industry and you, as our customer.”

A follow-up email a few months later indicated that the company would continue manufacturing.

Industry News

  • Several attendees at January’s International Hoof-Care Summit had their names randomly drawn for free registrations to the 2025 event in Kansas City, Mo., after completing conference attendee surveys. They are: Harlan Yoder of Mendon, Mich.; Michael Brewer of Belmont, N.Y.; and Diana Youngerman of Trenton, Ohio.
  • Wade Tubbs of Cleveland, Tenn., had his name drawn for the Stone­well Midi Trailer at the International Hoof-Care Summit. Proceeds from the drawing benefit the injured farrier funds of the Texas Professional Farriers Association and the Oklahoma Farriers Association.