Every now and then I receive a phone call from someone interested in becoming a farrier. They always want to know what shoeing school I'd recommend. I talk to them for a few minutes to find out their history, especially work experience. Toward the end of the conversation, I never recommend a particular shoeing school. I offer different advice, which may serve as a good reminder for established farriers.

Earlier this year, it was announced that the World Championship Blacksmiths' Competition (WCBC) would be dropped from the Calgary Stampede lineup after 2014. While there is much disappointment in the horseshoeing world over this, there is also optimism that another event, unaffiliated with the stampede, will take its place.