Volume 15 • Number 2 •
October-November 2019
2
The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
SuzyHaslup_TAH_Sept2019.qxp_Layout 1 9/22/19 2:22 PM Page 1
KATYDID FARM
$1.1 MILLION Accredited Land Consultant An Accredited Land Consultant, Suzy achieved the title of Leading Sales Agent in 2013, 2015 & 2016. Her 2017 & 2018 achievements include Meybohm’s “Best of the Best� & President’s Club, as well as 2018 RLI APEX award for top producing land real estate agents.
Home to one of the few international driving competitions in N.A. this farm is suitable for any equestrian operation. *Ă€ÂœÂŤiĂ€ĂŒĂž Â…>Ăƒ ÂœĂ›iĂ€ ÂŁÂŁĂ“ Ć‚ ĂœĂ‰Â…>Ăž wiÂ?`Ăƒ] iĂƒĂŒ>LÂ?ÂˆĂƒÂ…i` ÂŤ>ĂƒĂŒĂ•Ă€iĂƒ] Ă“ ViÂ˜ĂŒiĂ€ >ÂˆĂƒÂ?i L>Ă€Â˜Ăƒ ÂÂŁn ĂƒĂŒ>Â?Â?ĂƒÂŽ] x Ă€Ă•Â˜Â‡ÂˆÂ˜ ĂƒÂ…i`Ăƒ] equipment shed w/RV hookup & hay barn. Split bedroom ĂƒĂŒÂˆVÂŽLĂ•ÂˆÂ?ĂŒ …œ“i ĂœĂ‰ĂŽ Li`Ă€ÂœÂœÂ“ĂƒĂ‰Ă“ L>ĂŒÂ…Ăƒ] Â…>Ă€`ĂœÂœÂœ` yÂœÂœĂ€Ăƒ E wĂ€iÂŤÂ?>Vi° iĂŒÂˆVĂ•Â?ÂœĂ•ĂƒÂ?Ăž V>Ă€i` vÂœĂ€ ÂŤĂ€ÂœÂŤiĂ€ĂŒĂž ĂœĂ‰ĂŒĂ€>ˆÂ? ĂƒĂžĂƒĂŒi“ vÂœĂ€ Vœ˜`ÂˆĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ÂˆÂ˜} iĂ›iÂ˜ĂŒÂˆÂ˜}] `Ă€ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}] ÂœĂ€ ÂŤÂœÂ?Âœ Â…ÂœĂ€ĂƒiĂƒÂ° ÂœÂ˜ĂŒÂˆ}Ă•ÂœĂ•Ăƒ £äx Ć‚ ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… ĂŒĂ€>ˆÂ?Ăƒ ÂˆĂƒ >Ă›>ˆÂ?>LÂ?i°
LAKE SEIVERN
$700,000
Come home to your own private paradise! Gorgeous 134 A recreational tract w/124 A of timber & portion of 50 A Lake Seivern located less than 30 minutes from downtown Aiken and less than 50 minutes from Columbia. As-is 3 BR/2 BA house and garage included. Enjoy great Ć‚UJKPI DQCVKPI GNGEVTKE MC[CMKPI QT UCKNKPI
TUDOR HOUSE
$299,900
WOOD’S END WAY
$648,000
Ride into the Hitchcock Woods from your new EQPUVTWEVKQP NKIJV Ć‚NNGF $4 $# EWUVQO JCTFKRNCPM JQOG YKVJ UVCNN DCTP YCUJ UVCNN VCEM TQQO UVQTCIG HGPEGF VWTPQWV QP # with the ability to purchase more land. Wood ĆƒQQTU JKIJ EGKNKPIU ICU Ć‚TGRNCEG EJGHoU MKVEJGP with granite counters. Must see!
FOX HOLLOW LOTS
FARMSTEAD
$899,000
Larlee Construction 4 bedroom lake front home w/4.84 A in bucolic gated southside FGXGNQROGPV 4GENCKOGF RKPG ĆƒQQTU ECVJGFTCN EQHHGTGF o EGKNKPIU UJKRNCR YCNNU Ć‚TGRNCEG YKVJ RKPG DWKNV KPU SWCTV\KVG EQWPVGTVQRU OCJQICP[ MKVEJGP KUNCPF 8KMKPI CRRNKCPEGU ECT ICTCIG with workshop & pool overlooking 30 A lake.
RACELAND STABLE
UNDER CONTRACT
$499,000
REDUCED
Lovingly restored 1920’s Old Aiken cottage located close to the Horse District & walking distance to downtown & the Hitchcock Woods. $GCWVKHWN JGCTV RKPG OCRNG ĆƒQQTKPI Ć‚TGRNCEG *KVEJEQEM EGKNKPIU CNN CRRNKCPEGU KPENWFKPI PGY FKUJYCUJGT DWTPGT ICU UVQXG QPG ECT ICTCIG with man cave/childs playroom.
Fox Hollow covers just under 800 acres including C VTCKN QXGT DGCWVKHWN ,QJPUQP .CMG KTTKICVGF UJQY TKPIU OKTTQTGF FTGUUCIG TKPI ETQUU EQWPVT[ course and fabulous trails. Choose from one of these available lots and build your dream farm. .16 # .16 $ # .16 #
Aiken Horse District on the clay roads with access to the Aiken Training Track & a short hack to the RQNQ Ć‚GNFU *KVEJEQEM 9QQFU UVCNN DCTP YKVJ VCEM TQQO HGGF TQQO QHĆ‚EG DCTP CRCTVOGPV #FFoN US HV FQTOKVQT[ JCU CRCTVOGPVU UVCNN 'WTQEKUGT RCFFQEMU TQWPF RGP CPF YCUJ stall on almost an acre. Available to rent.
www.AikenHorseRealty.com (803) 215-0153 • suzy.haslup@gmail.com October-November 2019
The Aiken Horse
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Your HOME Team
your best friend in real-estate
finehomesofaiken.com
THE BALCONY is the most prestigious equestrian estate in Aiken, a comfortable showplace in the heart of Aiken’s “Winter Colony.â€? Close to all equestrian venues, the 5.85-acre compound is a peaceful sanctuary within tall masonry walls. The elegant slate-roofed residence ZOV^Z YLĂ„ULK JYHM[ZTHUZOPW PU L]LY` KL[HPS :[H[LS` MVYTHS YVVTZ LUZ\P[L ILKYVVTZ ^ Ă„YLWSHJLZ 2P[JOLU laundry, & utilities are all updated. Exquisite gardens & SH^UZ Z[HSS Z[HISL )9 JV[[HNL Z^PTTPUN WVVS large paddocks. $2,450,000
GODSON FARM: Z[VY` IYPJR YHUJO VU acres with 6-stall barn. Private attractive setting. Walk to Chukker Creek Elementary. Fireplace in den. New in ! YVVM ZLU[YPJVU Z`Z[LT MVY OV\ZL IHYU /=(* units, siding on the hay barn, & paint for house & barn. >LSS W\TW UL^ /H` IHYU HUK Z[VYHNL ZOLK 0KLHS for all riding disciplines. Close to major shopping and JPULTH TPU\[LZ [V KV^U[V^U (PRLU 3V]LS` WYVWLY[` H[ H SV]LS` WYPJL *HSS
SHELBORNE FARM PZ H NYHJPV\Z )9 )( J\Z[VT YLZPKLUJL VU HJYLZ ^P[O THNUPĂ„JLU[ ]PL^Z 0U[LYPVY MLH[\YLZ HYL Ă„YLWSHJLZ NYHUP[L JV\U[LY [VWZ UK Ă…VVY VIZLY]H[PVU KLJR ^VVK Ă…VVYZ Z[\UUPUN Z[VY` great room, and a framed-in apartment over the garage. :P_ Z[HSS IHYU ^P[O ^HZO YHJR MLLK YVVT KYLZZHNL YPUN _ O\PU[LY Q\TWLY YPUN )VHYK MLUJLK WHZ[\YLZ Three-car garage. $799,900
SNIPES POND is a 4028 sf renovated historic plantation home on 46 acres of beautiful rolling farm land. The top-quality renovation by skilled craftsmen from 9L`UVSKZ *V VŃœLYZ TVKLYU HTLUP[PLZ Z\JO HZ H NYHUP[L kitchen island, French country sink, walk-in closets, ceiling fans, & security system. multiple porches on both Ă…VVYZ HUK OHUKZVTL ^VVK Ă…VVYZ ;OL HJYLZ are ideal for farming, horses, other recreation or quiet enjoyment. Additional acreage available. $769,900
CHADBOURN FARM VŃœLYZ HU PK`SSPJ LX\LZ[YPHU SPMLZ[`SL ;OL ZX M[ )9 )( YLZPKLUJL ^HZ I\PS[ PU HUK L_[LUZP]LS` \WKH[LK PU 3PNO[ Ă„SSLK PU[LYPVY .YLH[ 9VVT ^P[O Ă„YLWSHJL -VYTHS KPUPUN YVVT >VVK Ă…VVYZ OPJRVY` JHIPUL[Z NYHUP[L JV\U[LY [VWZ :WHJPV\Z THZ[LY Z\P[L HJYLZ PUJS\KLZ H Z[HSS JLU[LY HPZSL IHYU ^P[O ^HZO YHJR HUK [HJR YVVT 3HYNL MLUJLK pastures, dressage arena, and 6.5 cleared acres for any equestrian use. $675,000
HIGH COTTON FARM This equestrian estate has a )9 )( YLZPKLUJL HUK VY Z[HSS IHYU ^P[O JOHYTPUN HWHY[TLU[ HSS VU HJYLZ 3VJH[LK JSVZL [V [V^U [OL farm has 5 fenced grass paddocks and an electric gate entrance. The home has: new roof, numerous upgrades, tankless water heater, and new interior colors. Gas heat, thermal-pane windows. Extra-large master suite downstairs. $825,000
SNIPES POND ROAD ^VVKLK HJYLZ H]HPSHISL
FOXCHASE 0TTHJ\SH[L ZX M[ IYPJR YHUJO OVTL VU ILH\[PM\S HJYL SV[ PU -V_JOHZL LX\LZ[YPHU JVTT\UP[` )9 )( WS\Z Z[VYHNL PU JSVZL[Z Ă&#x2026;VVYLK H[[PJ ZWHJLZ <WKH[LK ^ thermopane windows, 2-year old gas pack for bedrooms, dual fuel generator, irrigation system w/ ^LSS YLJLU[ THZ[LY IH[O 3HYNL RP[JOLU ^ *VYPHU countertops. 5 parking bays plus workshop.
TOLT TRAIL (PRLU OVYZL MHYT PU Ă&#x201E;UL JVUKP[PVU (STVZ[ 20 acres. Adjacent to Performance Equine Vet. Center. .YLH[ Ă&#x2026;VVY WSHU 6HR ]PU`S Ă&#x2026;VVYZ ;VW X\HSP[` RP[JOLU bay-window breakfast room. Master suite with views & large walk-in closet; adjacent 4th bedroom is excellent VŃ?JL 7YVWHUL MVY NHZ SVNZ [HURSLZZ ^H[LY OLH[LY ;OL KLJR /=(* HUK ^LSS W\TW ^LYL UL^ PU >OVSL OV\ZL NLULYH[VY :HS[^H[LY WVVS ^P[O )HK\ Z^PTTPUN current. 4-stall barn w/water & electricity, feed storage, [HJR YVVT ^ ZOLS]PUN [\YU V\[Z ^P[O Y\U PU ZOLKZ 6UL WHKKVJR PZ PKLHS HZ KYLZZHNL Ă&#x201E;LSK
for use as a residence, farm, hunting land or ^OH[L]LY `V\Y OLHY[ KLZPYLZ :OVY[ [YPW [V 0 HIV\[ TPU\[LZ [V KV^U[V^U (PRLU HUK JSVZL to Aikenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equestrian schooling and event facilities. )LH\[PM\SS` MVYLZ[LK PU WPULZ HUK VHRZ [OL SHUK is level and easy to clear for pasture. Adjacent to marvelous horse farm. No mobile homes. Motivated seller is asking
;OL Ă&#x201E;ULZ[ MHYTZ PU (PRLU :V\[O *HYVSPUH Call 803-640-0123 for estates, farms, homes & land.
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The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
October-November 2019
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News and Notes Oktoberfest Report Oktoberfest in Pictures Equine Ambulance Benefit Hunt Directory
Our cover shows Kirsten Buffamoyer aboard Hurry Murray competing in the CCI*** Oktoberfest, Stable View Photography by Gary Knoll.
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Daniel Geitner wins the $25,000 Bruce R. Duchossois Grand Prix aboard Vesta de Lavardin. At Bruceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Field. Photography by Pam Gleason.
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Lisa Hall Ask the Judge Aiken Fall Festival Secret Lives: Will Sara Odom Dressage Michael Henaghan
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NYTS Tournament Finals at New Bridge Polo Club. Photography by Pam Gleason
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Book Review Behind the Scenes at RRP The Interview: Julie Robins Mongol Derby NYTS Tournament Calendar of Events Directory of Services Classifieds Index of Advertisers October-November 2019
October-November 2019
Aiken
The
Horse
Aiken’s Horse Publication
P.O. Box 332 • Montmorenci, SC 29839-0332 • 803.643.9960 • TheAikenHorse.com • TheAikenHorse@gmail.com Time Dated Material • Periodicals • Volume 15 • Number 2
W
elcome to the October-November issue of The Aiken Horse. We are getting this issue out fresh off the high of attending (and competing in) the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. For those who don’t know, the makeover is a training challenge in which competitors have about ten months to retrain a Thoroughbred that recently retired from the racetrack. The RRP offers ten different disciplines, from eventing and show jumping to ranch work, competitive trail, polo and everything in between. The winners of each of the 10 disciplines compete in the finale for the title of America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred, and a $10,000 prize. Did we win? Well, no. But we did not really expect to win, nor was winning really the point of the exercise. Instead, the RRP gave us motivation to ride and train every day, even through our hot Aiken summer. It also provided us with the opportunity to show what former racehorses can do, helping to promote the breed. After spending nearly a week in Kentucky with people from all over the country who were doing the same thing, it became clear that we were part of a movement that is, slowly but surely, bringing back the Thoroughbred’s reputation as America’s premier sport and performance horse. Of course, the RRP also gave us an excuse to spend a lot of time with Rock’s Dream and Big Blue Arrow, the magnificent OTTBs that we adopted from Equine
October-November 2019
Rescue of Aiken in 2018. What could be better than that? You will find behind-the-scenes coverage of this year’s makeover in Section Three. Section Three also has one of our favorite articles of the year: Taggert VinZant’s account of his 1,000 kilometer ride across the Mongolian steppe. That’s right, he competed in the Mongol Derby, the longest horse race in the world. His story, and the pictures that go along with it, might give you a case of Wanderlust – or conversely, they might make you thank your lucky stars that you are in Aiken, where you can have more civilized equine adventures any day of the week. Our other sections have all of our usual articles and columns, including Ask the Judge with Amy McElroy, who answers questions about showing in dressage, as well Secret Lives of Horses, which introduces our readers to one of Aiken’s distinguished retired horses. This time the subject is Wjedo (aka Will) a former international Grand Prix dressage horse. It’s October, so that also means that it is time for our annual hunt directory, which includes important information about our area hunts, indispensable for those who would like to hunt themselves, or just want to come out to watch the annual blessing of the hounds. And of course we have pictures. The first section features the international level eventers at Stable View’s Oktoberfest CCI two- three- and fourstars. The second section has the exhibitors in the $25,000 Bruce R. Duchossois American Standard Grand Prix at Bruce’s Field. The third section is about polo, showcasing the finalists of the National Youth Tournament Series. We have had qualifying events for the NYTS here in Aiken ever since the series started but this is the first time that Aiken hosted the finals. The young players who competed here were incredibly skilled and showed exceptional sportsmanship throughout, which should give polo enthusiasts optimism about the future of the sport. As ever, please contact us if there is a story out there that you think we should be covering. We always want to be your horse newspaper.
Pam Gleason Editor & Publisher
The Aiken Horse EDITOR & PUBLISHER Pam Gleason
ART DIRECTOR Gary Knoll
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jean Berko Gleason
LAYOUT & DESIGN Gary Knoll
PHOTOGRAPHERS Pam Gleason Gary Knoll
ADVERTISING
803.643.9960 editor@theaikenhorse.com
Going Out Of Town? Don’t miss future issues of The Aiken Horse. We will send you a one year subscription (6 issues) for $24.00. Send check or CC # & your mailing address: P.O. Box 332, Montmorenci, SC 29839 Or sign up on the web at www.TheAikenHorse. com
Aiken
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Horse
Aiken’s Horse Publication
All contents Copyright 2019 The Aiken Horse The Aiken Horse Policies: The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers, editors, or the policies of The Aiken Horse, LLC. The Aiken Horse is owned by The Aiken Horse, LLC.
The Aiken Horse
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News and Notes
By Pam Gleason & Mary Jane Howell
Katydid
There is a farm in Windsor named Katydid – over 100 acres of hay fields and pastures, with barns and sheds. Certainly idyllic on its own, but as home to one of the premier combined driving events in the United States, Katydid is superb, and a testament to thoughtful development carried out by its late owner Katrina Becker and her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Matheson. This year the Katydid CAI ** is hosting the 2019 USEF Advanced Single Horse Combined Driving Championship and the 2019 American Driving Society North American Intermediate Combined Driving Championships. The three-phase competition begins on Thursday, October 31, with two days of dressage, followed by marathon on Saturday and cones on Sunday. The event began in 2004 and has grown in stature each year, attracting many of the country’s top drivers. “We are hoping for about 80 entries, with two or three four-in-hands and lots of pairs,” said Peggy Dils, who is the manager and secretary for the driving event. “It is exciting to see entries come in from as far away as Washington, Arizona and Maine.” Katydid is one of the few remaining FEI driving shows in the U.S. (the list includes Live Oak and the Kentucky Classic) and one that is eagerly anticipated by competitors and spectators alike. The annual Sunday brunch, which benefits the Aiken Land Conservancy, has become a fall tradition. Katydid, the farm, is for sale this fall, so this year’s event marks the last Katydid event in its current format, but perhaps not the last ever, according to Jennifer Matheson. “This is not necessarily the final show I am involved in – I may take it in a different direction in the future,” she explained. She is not only the organizer but also the creator of the competition. Whatever the future may hold for Katydid, the driving event is a lesson in what one can
do with a blank canvas and no space restraints. The farm was a labor of love for both Katrina Becker and Jennifer. What was vacant land became a private farm and home to a variety of disciplines over the years. There were breeding programs for warmbloods and ponies, crosscountry training for the Thoroughbreds that came home after their careers on the track ended, and finally, driving. Katrina took up competitive driving with Jennifer’s help, and competed until she was 70.
“Katrina and I shared a passion for horses, and she allowed me to follow and grow my passion for driving,” Jennifer said. With several USEF National Combined Driving Pair Pony Championships under her belt and many trips abroad to compete on the European stage, Jennifer has first-hand knowledge of what makes a successful show. Year by year, Katydid grew into the much-loved and anticipated event it is today. Shelly Temple, now a Windsor resident, competed in the first Katydid with her champion driving pony Cooper, and her experience led her to move to the Aiken area from Virginia. “The show was – and still is – so competitor friendly,” Shelly said. “The town was great and the fact that there was no mud was a bonus!” This year Shelly is an official in the marathon, so she won’t be competing. “It is important for the sport to have this level of competition,” she continued. “The upper level of drivers is slowly getting smaller, while the lower level is growing. We must have seasoned drivers around to inspire those who are just beginning and FEI shows like Katydid do just that.” And what does the word Katydid really mean? “Katy is for We offer a wide range of fencing, including Katrina… and she equestrian properties and residential “did” it,” Jennifer explained with a privacy fencing. laugh. “I took a bug’s Run in and storage sheds are also available. name and turned it into a brand.” -MJH
Free estimates and design assistance
Contact John at (803) 292-5161 8
The Aiken Horse
Bill Raab: Circuit Governor
In the spring, Bill Raab was elected the United States Polo Association Circuit Governor for the Southeast region. Bill, who lives in Wagener and owns and runs Wagener Polo Club, has been in the polo world since he was a teenager. He started out as a groom and soon became a professional player, then a professional umpire and a professional polo manager. Stepping into the circuit governor role, he certainly knows polo from the ground up, and is now in a position to help guide the development of the sport. He explains that the circuit governor, who is elected by the general membership, is each member’s and each club’s liaison with the USPA. “I’m here to help the clubs in any way I can; to help them get tournaments, to assign tournaments that they have applied for. I go to the meetings twice a year, and can bring up any suggestions that clubs might have, and I can address any issues they have brought me.” According to Raab, one of the most significant new things that the USPA is doing in 2019 is that it has started awarding matching grants to tournaments that offer prize money. The prize money matching program allocates a maximum of $75,000 per circuit and $25,000 per club each year – the amount of money that can be awarded depends upon the number of players in the tournament and various other factors. To benefit a larger number of players, preference for matching funds will be given to tournaments at the 12-goal level and below. The program is getting a bit of a slow start in this area: the only tournaments in the Southeastern circuit that have applied for and been granted prize money are in Alabama. “It’s first come first served,” says Bill. “And there is money left over this year, so they are trying to encourage clubs to apply. Prize money in low goal tournaments could be really good, or it could be bad. Sponsors in the low goal like the idea that they have a chance to get some of their money back, or they might want to give their pros a bonus. But you could also worry that sometimes if you put money into the equation in low goal polo, it could be dangerous. So far it has been very good, from what I have heard.” Other new initiatives in the USPA include providing funding to film and livestream polo matches, which is currently being done mostly at the high goal level. Raab thinks that livestreaming is also important for low goal polo to help promote the sport to more people. Bill goes on to emphasize that he is available to listen to the concerns of players in the Southeastern circuit, and that he will take any ideas or suggestions to the USPA to let everyone’s voice be heard.
October-November 2019
“Everybody that’s a member should vote in the circuit governor elections,” he says. “If they want something changed they should speak up. Overall, the USPA is very responsive to what the circuit governors tell them. They don’t always agree with suggestions, but they do listen.” Bill himself would like to see a few rules changes, including the elimination of the half-goal handicap as well as the ¾ rule, which says that, in a 4 goal tournament and above, no player’s handicap can be greater than ¾ the tournament level.
Quarter Horses Win
Aiken has long had a solid reputation as a place to produce event horses, foxhunters, polo ponies, hunter/jumper show horses, dressage horses and Thoroughbred racehorses. These days, it is also becoming known as the home of some of the top Quarter Horses in the country. This is largely due to the presence of Jeffrey Pait, a lifelong conditioner of Quarter Horses for the show ring, whose business, Pait Show Horses, is based on Aiken’s Southside. At the end of August, members of the Pait Quarter Horse family had an impressive outing at the AQHA Select World Show in Fort Worth, Texas. According to the AQHA website, this is “ the world’s largest, singlebreed world championship horse show open exclusively to amateur exhibitors age 50 and over.” Pait Show Horses came home with two big wins in halter divisions at the Select show. One was earned by Leasa Haselden’s filly FG Miss Ultra Cool, who was named the World Champion Yearling Filly. Leasa, who lives in Southern Pines, NC, also had the fourth placed aged gelding, GonnaRockYa. The other big winner from the Pait stable was Ina Ginsberg, an Aiken resident. Ina, who is 84, showed her horse Can’t Touch Her Guns in the aged mare division and came away with the World Championship. In 2018, Can’t Touch Her Guns was the Reserve World Champion at the Select Show as well as the Open Reserve World Champion. But this year, she has been winning all the top titles. This is Ina’s second World Championship title: she won for the first time in 2015 with her gelding Hez Packing Heat.
October-November 2019
Interviewed after her victory by the AQHA, Ina thanked her son, as well as Jeffrey and Bronwyn Pait for their help and support. “At 84, it feels pretty good to win the World,” she concluded. “I think I have been Reserve World Champion 14 times at amateur, but this is only my second World Championship, so it really means a lot.”
Campbell Tribute at the TB Hall of Fame
Cot Campbell, who died last year at the age of 91, was a man who reveled in both the large and small victories in his life. He would never have wanted a melancholy marking of the anniversary of his passing. Instead, on Sunday, October 27 at 1:30, there will be a celebration in the form of an exhibit and a silent auction at the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum to pay tribute to him. Cot, widely recognized as the pioneer of racehorse partnerships, was the founder and president of Dogwood Stable, based in Aiken. If he were there to play the host, Cot would be pointing out some of the trophies in the silent auction: the pewter Revere-style bowl that the Campbells brought home after Nagurski’s win in the 1984 Woodlawn Stakes at Pimlico, or the beautiful silver tea set from Practitioner’s McKnight Handicap victory at Calder in 1978. There will be silver trays, crystal bowls and vases won by some of Dogwood’s top fillies. Win photos abound in the silent auction, covering the many decades of Dogwood Stable’s prowess at the track. “I have bittersweet feelings,” said Anne Campbell of the upcoming event. “I truly want all these items to be in the hands of people who would get a kick out of them.” Attending the races was very much a family affair for the Campbells, with not just Anne by Cot’s side but daughters and grandchildren and extended family as well. “Everything that will be on display and auctioned that afternoon is sentimental because it represents joy and celebration,” said Anne. “We had so many family experiences at the races and also formed strong bonds with clients, many who became great friends. I know how lucky I was to enjoy that life for so many years.” The exhibit will feature photos and other memorabilia from Cot’s well-lived life. Photos from his childhood all the way to Palace Malice’s Belmont Stakes win photo with trainer Todd Pletcher and jockey Mike Smith will be on display. There will also be information on the many industry and civic awards that he received, which ranged from the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year (2006) to being named one of the National Racing Hall of Fame Pillars of the Turf in 2018.
“I am very honored that we can play host to this exhibit,” said Lisa Hall, who is the coordinator for the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. “Mr. Campbell was a good friend to the museum and was always very supportive of everything we did.” The silent auction begins On Sunday, October 27 at 1:45 and closes at 4 p.m. All proceeds will go directly to the museum. The exhibit runs through November 24.
Remembering Carolyn McGaughey
Carolyn McGaughey, who purchased Hilltop Farm and moved to Aiken about a year ago, died on September 15 at her home after a short battle with cancer. Carolyn was born and raised in Charleston. Fascinated by horses from the time she was a toddler, she began her equestrian career riding saddleseat at Gildea’s Stable in Charleston, and eventually added Western and huntseat riding to her repertoire. She went on to become a professional horsewoman, breeding and training Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses and Paints. Although she said horses were the driving force of her life, her passions were many and deep. She also bred and raised dogs and Angus cattle and was a rated pilot. Carolyn, who was profiled in The Aiken Horse in February 2019, spent most of her adult life in Georgia, where she and her husband Mac (Frank S. McGaughey) raised their family and lived on farms that they owned. After Mac’s death in 2016, Carolyn decided to relocate, and Aiken, a place she had visited occasionally since she was a teenager, was a natural destination. In her later years, she had devoted herself to breeding and showing Quarter Horses and Paints, and she brought her herd of mares and their foals along with her. Determined to live her life to the fullest from the beginning to the end, Carolyn spent her final weeks surrounded by her friends, family and horses. In August, she chartered a Gulfstream jet to fly herself, two of her grandsons and several of her friends to Fort Worth, Texas, so that she could show her yearling filly FG A Very Cool Charm one last time at the AQHA Select World Championship show. In September, she asked her friends to help her ride one of her horses – she hadn’t ridden in years due to earlier injuries. When she mounted up on September 10, her friends expected her just to take a brief walk, but within a few moments she was cantering around the arena, completely at home on horseback as she had been her entire life. It was one of her final activities. She died less than five days later at the age of 74. She is survived by a brother, a son and daughter, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
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TEAMWORK TECHNOLOGY TRUST As the largest equine veterinary equine practice in the CSRA, Southern Equine Service is the only equine clinic with advanced diagnostic capabilities and a seasoned staff on par with those services offered at regional teaching facilities. Our team of veterinarians offer a multi-disciplinary approach to patient diagnosis that ensures optimum outcomes. Our in-house technology resources are unmatched and include the area’s only bone scan and 0.31 Tesla high resolution MRI. All of our doctors are equipped with portable radiograph and ultrasound capabilities to immediately address your horse’s needs while on-site. Most importantly, our dedication to delivering quality care is reflected in the strong doctor-client relationships we continue to build.
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The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
Oktoberfest Horse Trials
Jacob Fletcher on 501 Mischief Maker
FEI Competition at Stable View By Christine Rhodes
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table View hosted their annual Oktoberfest event on September 2729. Running Novice, Training, and Preliminary national divisions and CCI-S 2*, 3*, and 4* international divisions, this year’s event had the largest entry list to date with over 300 horses going to the start. Riders competed for a total of nearly $80,000 in prize money split among the levels. Phillip Dutton aboard The Z Partnership’s Z sealed the win in the CCI 4*-S division after double clear rounds over Chris Barnard’s show jumping course and Captain Mark Phillips’s cross country design. Dutton and Z were also the winners of last year’s Oktoberfest CIC 3* and the inaugural Stable View Advanced horse trial in 2016. “Z had three really good phases, and I’m excited about where this horse is going,” Dutton said. “I’m so glad to come to Stable View. Barry and Cyndy [Olliff ] have done a great job of establishing this facility now. The atmosphere is just growing and improving, and it was a great venture for Z and I to come here.” Lynn Symansky finished in second place with Under Suspection, Mary Ann Ghadban’s 15 year old Holsteiner mare, in the CCI 4*-S with a few time penalties from the show jumping phase. Fresh off a gold medal win as part of the U.S. Eventing Team at the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, this was Symansky’s first time competing at Stable View after visiting with the team for their final training session in July. Sydney Elliott and QC Diamantaire rounded out the podium with a third place finish. This was their final outing before their first CCI 4*-L at Fair Hill. Will Faudree also had an impressive showing, placing fourth with Caeleste. Phillip Dutton finished fifth with Fernhill Singapore, the overnight leader going into the jumping phases, but had a few costly time penalties on cross-country.
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Doug Payne, a local Aiken rider and also a member of gold-medalwinning Team USA at the Pan Am Games, took home the top placing in the large CCI 3*-S division with Vandiver, finishing on their dressage score. Payne also had two double clear phases on Baymax for a second place finish in the CCI 2*-S. Leslie Law, from Ocala, Fla., received the top honors in the CCI2*-S riding Tout de Suite, and had an overall successful weekend with three other top ten placings in the FEI divisions. As the premier event on Stable View’s calendar and Aiken’s only FEI eventing opportunity for 2019, the venue sought to create a memorable weekend for competitors and spectators alike. Riders were able to enjoy complimentary breakfast in the rider lounges, karaoke with Clayton Fredericks, and a competitor’s party sponsored by Attwood Equestrian Surfaces with dinner and live music. On Saturday, the pavilion at Stable View hosted over 250 VIP guests with great viewing of both show jumping and cross-country from the wrap-around decks. With free admission for spectators, many from the community came to experience the upper-level atmosphere or support their friends who were competing. In addition to the equestrian competition, there were vendors, food trucks, a kid’s corral, and a car show hosted by Aiken Horsepower. Despite months with minimal rainfall in Aiken, Stable View worked to keep the cross-country footing in the best possible condition with non-stop watering and aeration leading up to the event. Now, preparations begin for the busy Aiken winter season and Stable View’s newly awarded March 27-28th FEI date, which will run CCI-S 1*, 2*, 3*, and 4* divisions in 2020. Stable View’s full 2020 calendar, as well as full results from Oktoberfest, can be found on their website: www.stableviewfarm.com.
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ABOUT NEW BRIDGE (visit newbridgepolo.com or call 1-888-4NB-POLO)
Now Available
Offered through New Bridge Realty
Contact Raza Kazmi, 888-4NB-POLO, info@newbridgepolo.com
Karna Farm: $550,000 Spectacular views of New Bridge Rare opportunity to own a turnkey polo farm with ride in and out ability through private gate to Polo Field #4. Karna Farm is built on 10.55 acres and consists of a Heider-built, spacious, 12-stall enclosed barn with 16-foot aisleway. Indoor, heated wash rack as well as large exterior wash rack. Two bedroom, one bath attached apartment, temperature contolled tack room, feed room with roll up door provides easy access for deliveries. Detached and insultated steel storage building for equipment and hay. Brick barbecue patio or Argentine asado is the perfect place for gatherings. Entire parcel is high and dry for maximum usability.
New Homes Under Construction
Surrey and Windsor cottages are custom built by Cooper Home & Stable. Design services provided by Cipolla Gallery.
Move-In Ready Surrey Cottage: $365,900 Inviting 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, with a large front veranda, porch and rear patio. Cottage has 2,118 square feet of heated and cooled living space, plus an attached, oversized 2 car garage.
Under Construction Windsor Cottage: $389,500 Spacious, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, Craftsman’s style home. Single-level floor plan with lots of closet and storage space. Front porch, great room with fireplace and large, private master suite.
Homes for Sale The Manor Homes: Two uniquely designed, low maintenance homes located across from the Clubhouse and Field #1. Master suite on main, Marvin windows, oak floors throughout, granite countertops and many other upgrades. $319,500 and $339,500
Homesites for Sale, call 888-4NB-POLO for acreage and location.
New Bridge is an 860-acre gated equestrian community nestled among rolling pasture lands on New Bridge Road just 15 minutes from downtown Aiken. Born from the excitement, intensity and tradition of polo, New Bridge is the home of New Bridge Polo & Country Club and of Aiken Youth Polo, but also embraces equestrians of all disciplines as well as those who simply love the outdoors, with all sharing the essential joy of a life that celebrates horses, people and land - in a place that connects them. Residents enjoy an array of equestrian amenities including five meticulously groomed polo fields, stick and ball areas, an exercise track, polo arena, riding trails, all-weather GGT dressage and jumping arenas, miles of groomed roads made for riding and The Stables, our full-care, premier 24-stall boarding facility. A swimming pool with lounge area, a clay tennis court, and an Argentinian colonial-style Clubhouse with restaurant/bar (open spring and fall), balcony, porch, and outdoor spaces round out the perfect setting for everyone from families to empty nesters, casual riders to competitive athletes, and those simply seeking solace from a busy world. The New Bridge world is one where all can revel in the luxury of leisure, the excitement of sport, the abiding beauty of horse country, and the deep connections of a close-knit community. New Bridge: room to play; room to ride; room to live, all in a place you ! will want to call home.
Fall Polo Schedule Northrup Knox Cup 12 Goal® September 20-29, 2019 National Copper Cup 12 Goal® October 4-20, 2019 Bronze Trophy 12 Goal® October 25-November 3, 2019 Copa de Plata 8 Goal September 20-October 5, 2019 Regional President’s Cup 8 Goal October 10-26, 2019 National President’s Cup 8 Goal October 29-November 2, 2019 1-888-4NB-POLO / newbridgepolo.com
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October-November 2019
OFFICE: (803) 761-0678
CELL: (803) 522-3648
SHARERDALE@GMAIL.COM
1050 Clear Creek Ct. Aiken, SC 29803 An equestrian paradise on 14 acres in Aiken's coveted Bridle Creek Equestrian community. Designer built-in 2009, this 4 bedroom 3.5 bath luxury estate has a spacious and bright indoor/outdoor living space to gather and entertain around the the chef's kitchen. Steps from the home is a showstopper, 9stall center-aisle stable with every amenity: tack room, feed room, wash stall and large fenced arena with professional footing. Above the stable, you will find a spacious & bright 3 bedroom 2 bath residence. You will love having multiple grassturnouts and access to the Bridle Creek's miles of maintained trails for conditioning work or riding out with friends to the community jump, dressage and cross-country training areas.
MLS #108546 OFFERED AT $1,595,000 4 BEDROOMS 3 FULL 2 HALF BATHROOMS 3,127 SQUARE FEET BARN APARTMENT: 3 BED / 2 BATH
October-November 2019
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Oktoberfest CCI**, CCI ***
and CCI**** at Stable View
Photography by Pam Gleason & Gary Knoll
H I S TO RY. T R A D I T I O N . L E G AC Y.
SOL VINO W I N E
PA R LO R
food • drinks • retail
200 Park Avenue SW Aiken SC 29801 803.262.5335 solovino337@gmail.com
Old European style corner wine parlor and bistro, serving lunch and dinner, featuring fresh seasonal food, made to order, (no fryers, no freezers). Seating on intimate couches or at dining tables including Aikens’ first community table. Retail wine sales, Wine Club Memberships
The perfect relaxation after a day of exploring Aiken hotel • lunch • dinner • cocktails • sunday brunch full-service luxury spa & salon experience
offering discounts, weekly wine tastings, nightly wine specials. Owned by Chef/Sommelier Lou Giusto and his wife Stephanie.
Lunch Hours: Thurs|Fri|Sat 11:30am-3pm Dinner Hours: Thurs - Mon 5pm-9pm Tues-Weds CLOSED
solovinoaiken.com O P E N DA I LY • 1 0 0 C O L L E TO N AV E N U E S W • A I K E N , S C 8 0 3 . 6 4 8 . 1 8 9 8 • T H E W I L L C OX .C O M ANEU-19023CR-Aiken Horse Ad-outlines-PRINT.pdf
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HISTORIC HOME IN HORSE DISTRICT LOCALE
8.64 ACRES, 8-STALL CENTER-AISLE BARN, GREAT TURNOUT, STEPS TO HORSE PARK RENOVATED HOME & GUEST HOUSE, 6 BR & 4½ BATHS, SALTWATER GUNITE POOL
1354 AUDUBON DRIVE | $2,900,000
HATCHAWAY HOUSE & BARN ON 18 ACRES
4-STALL BARN, FENCED PADDOCK WITH RUN-IN, ESTABLISHED PASTURE HISTORIC 3 BR, 2 BATH HOME, POND, 2-CAR DETACHED GARAGE
1758 HATCHAWAY BRIDGE ROAD | $495,000
SUMMERFIELD | 74 ACRE EQUESTRIAN ESTATE IRRIGATED & COVERED ARENA, 9-STALL STABLE W/TACK & FEED ROOMS FINE 4 BR HOME, 4+CAR GARAGES, STUDIO APT +2 UTILITY BUILDINGS
280 BRIGGS ROAD | OFFERED FOR $1,990,000
THE SANCTUARY - EQUESTRIAN OASIS
FAIRHAVEN - MINUTES TO TOWN & HIGHFIELDS
185 GADWALL LANE | $997,000
148 WIRE ROAD | $675,000
12.7 ACRES, 4-STALL STABLE W/WASH RACK, FENCED PASTURE W/3 NEW RUN-IN SHEDS GORGEOUS 3 BR, 3½BATHS, FABULOUS KITCHEN, SALTWATER POOL, 2-CAR GARAGE
NEARLY 10 ACRES, FENCED PASTURE, RUN-IN SHED W/STORAGE ROOM INVITING & RENOVATED 4 BR, 4 1/2 BATH FARMHOUSE, LOVELY GRASS TERRACE
EXCEPTIONAL SHOW BARN ON 22 ACRES
BIG TREE FARM - EST. PASTURES & POLO FIELD
2026 MCDOUGAL ROAD | $1,095,000
490 BIG TREE ROAD | 795,000
11-STALL STABLE, IRRIGATED ARENA W/MARTIN COLLINS FOOTING, DERBY FIELD CENTRAL 1 BR/BATH LIVING QUARTERS, PATIO & EQUIPMENT STORAGE
58+ ACRES, 15-STALL CENTER AISLE BARN W/TACK & FEED ROOMS 2 BR, 2 BATH LIVING QUARTERS, SEPARATE OFFICE, 3+ CAR GARAGE/WORKSHOP
LEWIS LANE ASSOCIATION WITH TRAILS
SUPERB 90 ACRE FARM FOR RIDING & DRIVING
201 LEWIS LANE | $679,000
375 FOX POND ROAD | $1,610,000
12 STALL BARN, 11+ACRES, FENCED PADDOCKS 3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH LIVING QUARTERS, QUIET SERENE LOCATION
8-STALL STABLE, WOODED TRAILS, PASTURE WITH RUN-INS 3 BR, 2 1/2 BATH FARM MANAGER’S HOME
PRIVATE 48+ ACRE FARM WITH 2 HOMES & BARN
GORGEOUS HOME & VIEWS IN 302 HORSE COUNTRY
HOPELAND FARMS IS FOR HORSE LOVERS
1048 WOODLAND | $514,900
115 BURKELO ROAD | $672,990
461 IMPLEMENT ROAD | $499,500
7-STALL CENTER-AISLE BARN, FENCED PASTURES W/RUN-IN SHEDS 3 BR, 2 BA HOME; HOBBY BUILDING & SEPARATE MOBILE HOME
11 CLEARED ACRES, PADDOCK W/RUN-IN, COMMUNITY TRAILS ONE-LEVEL 3 BEDROOM, 2 1/2 BATH HOME, 2-CAR GARAGE
20+ ACRES PERIMETER FENCED, BARN STRUCTURE READY TO ADAPT NEWER 3 BR + BONUS, 3 ½ BATH HOME, 3 BAY WORKSHOP
Horse Ready Land for Sale BIG TREE ROAD - 3 LOTS FROM 12 - 16+ ACRES STARTING FROM $82,000 REDDS BRANCH ROAD - FOUR 5-ACRE PARCELS STARTING FROM $93,000 HATCHAWAY BRIDGE ROAD - 12 ACRES IN PASTURE $144,000 LINLER LANE - 3 LOTS RANGING FROM 4+ TO 11 ACRES STARTING FROM $77,400
ANGELA ROAD - PARTIALLY CLEARED 12+ ACRES $79,000 LEWIS LANE ASSOCIATION W/TRAILS OLD DIBBLE RD – 6+ACRES W/POND $137,000 HIGH FLAT FARM 11 ACRES FENCED $227,000 12 FENCED ACRES W/MAJESTIC OAKS $249,000
EQUESTRIAN PARADISE ON 14 ACRES IN BRIDLE CREEK
SHOWSTOPPER, 9 STALL STABLE, ARENA W/PROFESSIONAL FOOTING, FENCED PADDOCKS DESIGNER BUILT-IN 2009, 4 BR 3.5 BATH LUXURY ESTATE W/ 3-BAY GARAGE. 3 BR RESIDENCE ABOVE BARN.
1050 CLEAR CREEK COURT | $1,595,000
Cissie Sullivan
Tracey Turner
David Miller
803-998-0198 | SullivanTurnerTeam.com October-November 2019
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RESCUE . NURTURE . LOVE . FOSTER . ADOPT . DONATE . Over 7200 dogs rescued and cared for in Aiken. ,ĞůƉ ƵƐ ƌĞƐĐƵĞ ŵŽƌĞ ĚŽŐƐ ďLJ ĚŽŶĂƟŶŐ Ăƚ͗
w w w. h o m e f o r g o o d d o g s . o r g
HOME FOR GOOD DOG RESCUE 22
The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
Aiken Large Animal Rescue Team Fundraiser in October By Nancy Johnson
“So many people in the Aiken equine community don’t even know we exist,” says Lieutenant Daymon Spann of the City of Aiken Department of Public Safety. Spann is referring to the Aiken Large Animal Rescue Team, which is operated by the Department of Public Safety. “We are on call 24/7, serving Aiken and the surrounding areas for equine and other large animal emergencies,” he continues. The Large Animal Rescue Team has two specially-equipped large animal ambulances which include a hoist and a dolly that can lift and hold injured horses. Spann says that he wishes that more horse owners knew to call on the rescue team’s services, citing situations where horse owners have improvised and created more of a hazard because they didn’t have the specialized equipment and training that his team does. “We are here to help; no matter what, and there is no charge at all,” he emphasizes. The city pays for all the team’s labor and fuel for its vehicles. The only thing the city doesn’t pay for is the equipment, and the team could use some new tools. The original large animal ambulance was purchased through a fundraising dinner over 13 years ago. That vehicle, often referred to as the “rust bucket,” is a converted twohorse bumper pull trailer. Another ambulance, known as the “new one” is already 10 years old. Carol McElwee who is the president of the Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit, says that her group has partnered with the Large Animal Rescue Team in order to secure funds for a much needed new ambulance and other equipment. “We are a nonprofit, and therefore can take donations, whereas the city cannot,” she says. Carol, along with a small board of directors, was responsible for incorporating the Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit as a nonprofit organization (501c3) in 2018. The unit works in partnership with the Aiken Department of Public Safety under the motto, “dedicated to serving Aiken Public Safety as ambassadors to our community.” According to their website, mounted civilian volunteers can be an effective tool in operations, ceremonial details, and other areas of public relations. The two groups are working hand-in-hand to host a fundraising dinner similar to the one that originally made the Large Animal Rescue Team a reality by securing the funds for the first ambulance. This dinner, called the Diamonds and Denims Blue Jean Ball will be held at Whitney Polo Field on Mead Avenue in downtown Aiken on Friday, October 25 from 6 to 10 p.m. It will feature a barbecue chicken dinner with a complete buffet and bar. The acclaimed local band Third Time Charmers will provide entertainment and there will be an assortment of raffle items. Tickets, which include two drink coupons, can be purchased at www.aikenvolunteermountedunit.org under the Upcoming Events tab. Businesses and groups purchasing tables of 8 can
October-November 2019
take advantage of free advertising on event signage. Carol emphasizes that the event will be “very casual and just a fun evening with good food and entertainment.” She is seeking all types of raffle prizes. Contact her at 803-295-2106 or cmcelweeavmu@aol.com to donate an item. Lt. Spann says that the Steeplechase Ball, which in past years was slated for the night before the Fall Steeplechase (Saturday, October 26) will not be held this year. “We hope that folks will come enjoy this event on that night before the races,” he says. He also notes that the Large Animal Rescue Team is a fixture at the Aiken Steeplechase meets. “The National Steeplechase Association requires a rescue team with two equine ambulances at all sanctioned meets,” he explains. “This is one of the reasons we desperately need to replace the ‘rust bucket,’ but not just any horse trailer will work. It requires some customization and also needs to be extra large to accommodate space for equipment and transporting injured animals that are supported in a dolly.” The dolly allows a horse to be suspended, thus taking weight off an injured leg. While it functions well and has been used in a number of instances, it needs some modifications so it can be used on larger horses. Lt. Spann wants every horse owner in Aiken to keep the Large Animal Rescue’s phone number handy (803-642-7620.) “We are the only 24 hour on-call large animal rescue team in the state of South Carolina and are able to go wherever we are needed with just a phone call or two,” he says. He adds that Aiken Public Safety has mutual aid agreements with various counties and his team has been involved with numerous rescue missions during hurricanes and other natural disasters. For instance, in past years they have spent close to a week in coastal areas after hurricanes such as Matthew and Florence, rescuing cows; some were up to their necks in water while others had sought refuge on porches. They have also responded to calls of loose horses and cattle on the interstate, horses stuck in the mud, sick horses down in the field and even a loose llama jumping from field to field. “Our main concern is still Aiken and we are here for this community night and day and are trying to get that message out,” he says. Need large animal rescue? Call 803-642-7620. For more information on the Aiken Volunteer Mounted Unit, to volunteer, donate or become a sponsor, visit aikenvolunteermountedunit.org
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Area Hunt Directory, 2019-2020 elcome to the annual Aiken Horse Hunt Directory for 20192020, providing important dates, information and contact W numbers for ten regional hunts. For those ready to follow the hounds,
cubbing is already well underway and the formal hunting season is just around the corner. Opening meets occur in November and the season lasts through March. If you would like to join in or just come watch, always remember to check in with the hunt secretary or MFH before showing up. Although many foxhunts welcome new members and enthusiastic hunt followers, foxhunts are generally private clubs and should be approached accordingly. Opening meets, such as the Thanksgiving Day opening meet of the Aiken Hounds at Memorial Gate in the Hitchcock Woods are often an exception to this rule, welcoming the public at large. Also remember that if you want to ride with any live hunt, although you may consider this a riding and a social adventure, the states of Georgia and South Carolina definitely think of it as hunting. For this reason, you must obtain a small game hunting license from the state before you ride in a live hunt. In South Carolina, visit sc.dnr.gov or call 866-714-3611 to purchase licenses seven days a week, 24 hours per day. In Georgia, purchase licenses online at georgiawildlife.com, or call 800366-2661, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the weekends.
Aiken Hounds
Drag and live hunt Hitchcock Woods and Aiken County, SC Hunt attire: Green coat with a chamois collar. Evening: Scarlet with green facings, chamois collar. Master of Foxhounds: Ms. Linda Knox McLean, Mr. Larry Byers, Ms. Wendy Collins Gutfarb, Ms. Sarah Wildasin Huntsman: Ms. Katherine Gunter Contact: Hon. Sec. Dr. Linda C. Hickey, 803.270.7392, lchickey63@ gmail.com. Hotline, 803.643.3724. Season: Mid-October through mid-March Opening Meet: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2019. The annual Thanksgiving Day Blessing of the Hounds at Memorial Gate in the Hitchcock Woods is an Aiken tradition. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss it! Hunt days: Drag:Tuesdays and Saturdays; Live: Thursdays & some Sundays The Aiken Hounds is the longest running hunt in South Carolina. It was established in 1914 by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hitchcock and recognized by the Master of Foxhounds Association in 1916. During drag hunt days, the AH hunts the 2,200 acres of the Hitchcock Woods. These Tuesday and Saturday meets are the only drag hunts in the Aiken area and may be well suited for riders on a fixed schedule as drag hunts typically take only a couple of hours. The live hunts on Thursdays and some Sundays are held at various fixtures across Aiken County and, like other live hunts, tend to be less predictable as to their duration. For information about events, contact the hotline or visit The Aiken Hounds Facebook page. Prospective guests are requested to please contact the hunt secretary.
Belle Meade Hunt
Live Hunt Thomson and McDuffie Counties, GA. Hunt attire: Scarlet coat with a Confederate Cavalry yellow collar. Evening: Same with red satin lapels. Master of Foxhounds: Mr. Edgar S. (Epp) Wilson, Mr. Charles W. Lewis, Dr. Gary Wilkes Contact: Hon. Sec. Mrs. Angela Smith, 706.833.3104, ke4nnr@ classicsouth.net, www.bellemeadehounds.com. Hunt Office: 706.595.2525 Season: November through mid-March
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Opening Meet: Saturday, November 2, 2019 Hunt Week: February 9-15, 2020 Hunt Ball: February 15, 2020 Hunt days: Wednesdays, Saturdays and some Sundays The Belle Meade Hunt was established in 1966 and recognized by the MFHA in 1970. Belle Meade is a large, fast moving hunt that takes riders through the hills, fields, and woodlands of northwestern Georgia. The hunts often have fields of 50 to 75, which are divided into four flights including two jumping and two non-jumping flights. Belle Meade boasts a well-attended opening meet with over 100 riders and 500 spectators. Belle Meade keeps English and Crossbred foxhounds.
Camden Hunt
Live Hunt Kershaw County, SC Hunt attire: Black Melton or Oxford gray coat with scarlet-orange collar and charcoal piping. Evening: Scarlet with orange lapels. Master of Foxhounds: Ms. Joanne Schwartz, Ms. Sue Sensor, Ms. Amy Cantey Huntsman: Ms. Melissa Rice Contact: Hon. Sec. Lea Schwartz Edwards, 803.669.1590. thecamdenhunt@yahoo.com Season: October through mid-March Opening Meet: Thanksgiving, November 28, 2019 Hunt days: Wednesdays and Saturdays The Camden Hunt is the second oldest hunt in South Carolina and was recognized by the Master of Foxhounds Association in 1926. The hunt maintains a professional huntsman, a kennel, and between 20 and 25 couple of crossbred hounds. The terrain in hunt country is a mix of lush swamps, hardwood forests, and mature pine woods. Hunt country is well paneled with coops, Aikens and Camdens. The footing is mostly sandy and very horse friendly. There are three fields: the first, which jumps; the second, which goes at a slower pace and can avoid jumping; and the third field, which views the most game and usually just walks and trots. Game consists of red and gray foxes as well as coyote.
Lowcountry Hunt
Live Hunt Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, and Jasper counties, SC Hunt attire: Black coat with gold piped indigo collar (to represent historical crops of indigo and Carolina Gold rice) Master of Foxhounds: Ms. Christina Bates, Ms. Nina S. Burke, Ms. Hollace A. Evans, Ms. Melinda F. Shambley, Dr. Mark O. Shambley Huntsman: Mr. Tony Gammel Contact: Hon. Sec. Carol Makovich Lobdell, 203.940.2257, lowcountryhunt@gmail.com. www.thelowcountryhunt.com Season: mid-November through mid-March Fall Hunter Pace: October 5, 2019 Opening Meet: November 16, 2019 Hunt Weekend: January 16-19, 2020 Hunt days: Tuesdays and Saturdays, and sometimes Thursdays The Lowcountry Hunt was founded in 2006. Hunt country includes some of the oldest and most beautiful plantations in the state with terrain ranging from freshwater marshes and tidal creeks to ancient live oak groves and hardwood forests. Fox and coyote are hunted with frequent sightings of alligators, bald eagles, and many types of waterfowl. The Lowcountry hunt keeps American foxhounds with a few Crossbreds.
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Middleton Place Hounds
Drag Hunt Charleston and Dorchester counties, SC. Hunt attire: Scarlet coat with Charleston green collar piped in light gray. Evening: same. Master of Foxhounds: Mr. Chalmers W. Poston, Jr., Mr. Donald L. Milton, Ms. Grace M. Stelling Huntsman/Joint Master: Mr. William (Willie) Dunn Contact: Hon. Hunt Sec. Ms. Grace Stelling, 843.442.9136, gmstelling@comcast.net. www.middletonplacehounds.com. MPH Hot Line: 843.270.3188 Season: October through March Opening Meet: November 24, 2019 Hunt Weekend: December 5-8, 2019 Hunt days: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays Middleton Place Hounds was recognized as a member of the MFHA in January 1977. It is primarily a drag hunt whose hunt country consists of land in Charleston and Dorchester Counties, including over 7,000 acres on Middleton Place and Millbrook Plantation. Terrain includes miles of sandy roads, trails and drag lines through pine and mixed hardwood forest that is extensively paneled with Aikens, timber, and coops. MPH maintains a kennel of approximately 24 foxhounds, including Crossbred and English foxhounds. Visitors are welcome and should contact the Secretary or any Joint Master.
Saxonburg Hunt Live Hunt Aiken County
Hunt Attire: Scarlet jacket with a dark grey collar. Evening- Scarlet with dark grey lapels. Master of Foxhounds: Mr. Floyd Wine Huntsmen: Mr. Chad Wilkes (prof ), Mrs. Nancy Iscrupe (hon) Contact: Hon. Hunt Sec. Ms. Donna Wine, 412.741.5597, djwine@ comcast.net Season: January 1 through end of March Opening Meet: January 7, 2020 Hunt Week (AKA the Hunt Festival): February 9-16, 2020 Hunt Ball: February 15, 2020 Hunt days: Tuesdays and Fridays
at Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Chastain Park started the Atlanta Hunt Club, the precursor of the Shakerag Hounds of today. In 1950, the hunt was officially recognized by the MFHA. Facilities include a large clubhouse, kennels, a barn for staff horses, and a home for the professional huntsman. Shakerag Hounds employs a pack of 40+ PennMaryDel and crossbred foxhounds which hunt red and gray fox, coyotes and bobcat. Foxhunting with Shakerag is a family sport, with riders aged 8 to 80 riding in one of three fields.
Sugarsand Foot Beagles Foot pack Aiken County
Hunt attire: comfortable walking casual Masters; Helen Dellacroce MB, Kevin Dellacroce MB Contact Helen Dellacroce: 803-260-2680 Season Sept-March Hunt days Sunday at 3, followed by a tailgate. Sugarsand Beagles is a registered foot pack that hunts rabbit on foot in the fox hunting style. This is a slow pack with excellent voice that allows for easy following. No cap for children making it a great family activity.
Whiskey Road Foxhounds
Live Hunt Aiken, Allendale, and Lexington counties, SC. Hunt attire: Scarlet with Aiken green velvet collar. Evening: Same with scarlet facings. Master of Foxhounds: Mr. David Smith, Mrs. Freddy Davis, Ms. Barbara Nelson Huntsman: Mr. Joseph Hardiman Contact: Hon. Sec. Betsy Minton, 803.617.8353, elizabethminton@ att.net www.whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com Season: October through mid-March Opening Meet: November 3, 2019 Hunter Pace: November 13, 2019 Hunt Week: February 5-11, 2020 Hunt Ball: February 7, 2019 Closing Hunt: March 22, 2019 Hunt days: Thursdays and Sundays
The Saxonburg Hunt, based in Saxonburg, PA, escapes the colder north to hunt in Aiken January through March. MFH Floyd Wine brings 23 couple of American, English, and crossbred hounds to work fixtures across Aiken county. The SH has been hunting in Aiken for the past decade and welcomes newcomers. Last year, the SH hosted more than 70 guest riders.
Established in 1976 and registered with the MFHA in 1977, the Whiskey Road Foxhounds regularly hunt large tracts in Aiken, Allendale, and Lexington counties. WRFH fields three flights over wooded and grass terrain, through cattle farms and timber properties peppered with coops, logs, and cross-country style jumps. Whiskey Road keeps 30 couple of English and Crossbred hounds. Guests are invited to wear their colors.
Shakerag Hounds
Wiggins Hounds
Hunt attire: Black coat with Confederate Gray collar with Byzantine Gold piping Master of Foxhounds: Mr. Daryl Buffenstein, Mr. West Hamryka, Mr. James Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Callaghan Huntsman: Mr. John Eaton Contact: Hunt Sec. Ms. Tara Stricko Myers, 770.312.3438, huntsecretary@shakeraghounds.com. www.shakeraghounds.com Season: Labor Day through mid-March Opening Meet: October 26, 2019 Closing Hunt: mid-March Hunt days: Tuesdays and Saturdays
Hunt Attire: Granite Gray jacket with Wiggins Blue collar and Wiggins Blue waistcoat. Evening: Black tie Master of Foxhounds: Mr. Edmund Twining, III Huntsman: Mr. Tommy Gesell Contact: Hon. Sec. Ms. Amy Gesell, 843.754.7236, amygesell123@ gmail.com Season: mid-October through mid-March
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Live Hunt Bamberg County
Established in 2013 and recognized by the MFHA in 2017, the Wiggins Hounds is a private hunt whose territory includes roughly 10,000 acres between Charleston and Columbia, SC. The WH hunts American and cross-bred hounds which are kennelled in Ehrhardt, SC. Visitors may attend by invitation only.
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Lisa Hall Ask the Judge Aiken Fall Festival Secret Lives: Will Sara Odom Dressage Michael Henaghan
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A Passion for Thoroughbreds
Lisa Hall, Coordinator of the Aiken TB Racing Hall of Fame By Mary Jane Howell, Photography by Gary Knoll
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nyone who has been in Lisa Hall’s presence for even five minutes knows three things about her: she is passionate about Aiken’s Thoroughbreds (past and present), “Shetland Sheepdogs rule,” and she is a Gamecocks fan, no matter what the sport. Lisa’s family moved to Aiken from Abbeville in 1963, when she was 5. Her father was a supervisor in a Clearwater textile mill; her mother became a reporter for the Aiken Standard. The Hall family lived in Aiken Estates and the children went to school at Aiken Elementary (located in what is now the Aiken County Library) and Aiken High. “I received my B.A. in Physical Education from USC Aiken,” said Lisa. “I started working on my Masters out of state but got so homesick that I came back.” She would go on to be the physical education teacher at what is now Redcliffe Elementary School. In 1987 she became the supervisor of the Odell Weeks Activities Center and in 2000 she started running the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. “Hopelands Gardens and Rye Patch also came under the auspices of the Odell Weeks Center, so my job description changed quite a bit,” she said. “Joan Tower [a prominent member of the Aiken Winter Colony] had overseen the museum, the gardens, etc. before her passing in 2000, and she left big shoes to fill.” Although she didn’t grow up on a farm or have horses of her own, Lisa had an aunt who lived in Wagener and owned horses. “Sometimes I would skip school and go out there to ride,” she said with a laugh. “I am so lucky my parents never found out.” Another link to horses came through one of her great-grandfathers who emigrated from Copenhagen, Denmark, sometime between 1865 and 1869. Christian Jenson settled in Aiken and plied his trade as a blacksmith, with his shop located on Newberry Street. “He shod all the horses for the public safety unit back in those early days – and that included the horses that pulled the fire engines and such. I go down Newberry now and I imagine him working there all those many years ago. I like to think that this love of horses that I carry around really started with him,” said Lisa. The most important horse in Lisa Hall’s life, however, is Blue Peter, who lived only four years (1946-1950) but was one of the top Thoroughbreds of his generation. He was voted Champion Two-Year-Old of 1948. The fact that Lisa was born in 1958 means that their paths never actually crossed, but when she was 8 she stumbled upon his gravestone at the Aiken Training Track. The granite marker with the simple inscription of his name and a few other salient facts is nestled under the live oak that spreads it branches in the infield. “My family had decided to attend the Aiken Trials and I had gone exploring between races,” Lisa recalled. “Even at that age I was fascinated that such an important horse was from Aiken… and that he was buried here.” Blue Peter was foaled at Claiborne Farm in Kentucky and owned by Joseph Roebling, a successful businessman from New Jersey who also loved the racing game. Blue Peter was the son of War Admiral (and thus the grandson of Man o’ War) and lived up to his breeding by clinching some of the biggest stakes as a two-year-old. He was being touted as the Kentucky Derby favorite heading into 1949, but a bad case of what was most likely colic sidelined Blue Peter for his three-year-old season. He resumed training in Aiken that December, but died in his stall on January 12, 1950. His funeral the following day was reported in papers around the country. His trainer Andy Schuttinger openly wept for the horse he said was the best he ever trained. For an impressionable youngster, the saga of Blue Peter was better than any children’s book. The story stayed with Lisa throughout her life, and when she wrote her first book in 2017, Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Champions, she dedicated it to the unlucky colt: “For Blue Peter, 1948 Champion TwoYear-Old Colt, who inspired my love of horses and Thoroughbred racing.” Lisa said that she is currently planning to write on two more books, when time allows. One will be about the Aiken Training Track, while the other is close to her heart - a children’s book about Blue Peter. From Lisa’s office on the second floor of Rye Patch (an historic estate off
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Whiskey Road that was donated to the City of Aiken) it is just a quick walk to the racing museum in Hopeland Gardens. While her office is a unique mixture of Carolina Gamecocks memorabilia and everything one can imagine from the world of Thoroughbred racing (halters, win photos, trainer bobbleheads, trade magazines and books, and a beautiful art collection) it is only the appetizer to what is the main course – the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. Housed in what had been the original carriage house of the Iselin Estate, Hopelands, the racing museum was the brainchild of the Aiken Jaycees. The group wanted a lasting tribute to both the local equine industry and the horses who trained here. With the help of Whitney Tower (the late sportswriter and editor as well as the former president of the National Museum of Racing located in Saratoga Springs, New York) and his wife Joan, money was raised and the first class of horses were chosen as inductees. The grand opening was held on January 23, 1977, and those big carriage house doors have been open ever since. “There are two requirements for induction into our Hall of Fame,” explained Lisa. “First, the horse must have spent some time training in Aiken, and second, the horse must have been named a champion (prior to 1971) or won an Eclipse Award (1971 to present). Forty horses are in the Hall of Fame, and their racing silks, win photos, race records and in many cases, trophies, are on display. There are special exhibits on trainers Pete Bostwick, Mack Miller, Jim Maloney, Scotty Schulhofer, and Mike Freeman, as well as a room dedicated to Cot Campbell’s Dogwood Stable, which opened in 2013. There is also a research library and two children’s rooms that are well-used. “Cot Campbell and Mack Miller were both great mentors to me and they are very much missed,” Lisa said. “We have personal items from both men in the museum, from Mr. Miller’s rocking chair to Mr. Campbell’s old Royal typewriter. It makes them seem close, somehow.” When Lisa retired from her fulltime job with the City of Aiken in 2015, she took the weekend off and came back on the following Monday as the part-time museum coordinator. “I am really doing everything I was, but without the running of Rye Patch and Hopelands Garden,” she said. “Now I can just devote myself to the museum.” The museum has an advisory board that meets, on average, eight times a year. Advice is given on future exhibits, including historical and art-related ones, book signings and guest speakers. “The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum belongs to everyone,” said Lisa. “It’s a wonderful place if you already know about the horses and people that have been so important to this town, but I also hope that it gives non-horse people a glimpse into part of what makes Aiken so special.” With the backing of Aiken’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism department, Lisa spearheaded, and now leads, both the Backstretch Experience (with the help of Legacy Stable trainer Brad Stauffer) and the Historic Stable Experience. These are tours of the Aiken Training Track and of Aiken’s historic stables, giving tourists and Aiken residents alike a deeper understanding of Aiken’s thoroughbred life and equestrian history. Lisa and the museum’s advisory board were also instrumental in developing the annual Breakfast at the Gallops, held at the Aiken Training Track the Friday morning before the Aiken Trials. “Many people have never had the opportunity to stand along the rail at a track or get close to a Thoroughbred, and they can on that morning,” Lisa explained. “It is one of the major fundraisers for the museum and it’s been going strong for 13 years, so the blend of breakfast and horses definitely works!” Lisa also sits on the boards of both the Aiken Training Track and the Historic Aiken Foundation. She has handled the trophies for the Aiken Steeplechase for the past 10 years and does anything that is needed at the Aiken Trials. Horses are not the only four-legged animals that Lisa Hall adores—there are the seven Shelties that share her home: McTavish, Edmund, Bristol, Sterling, MacKenna, Teagen, and Gryer. While she has made trips to various racing destinations in this country and is especially fond of Lexington, Kentucky, her dream is to go to Scotland and see some Shelties in action. All bets are on that she finds a racetrack to visit at the same time.
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Ask the Judge
Questions about Dressage With Amy McElroy
Amy McElroy is an FEI competitor, and a USEF S judge. She is qualified to officiate at any USEF recognized national show at all dressage levels. She rides, trains and teaches at Fair Lane Farm in Aiken and judges between 15 and 20 dressage and eventing shows each year. In her popular Ask the Judge column, she answers readers’ questions about dressage. Do you have a question for Amy? Send her an email at McElroyDRM@aol.com, or visit her website: www.amymcelroy.com.
Dear Amy
My horse and I will be competing at our first recognized dressage show this month. We will be trying out the Training Level. Can you give me some tips to avoid making beginner mistakes and ride a winning test?
Dressage Newbie
Dear Newbie,
I am excited for you and your horse: welcome to the dressage world! This is such a good question, because the small details are an important step towards a competitive ride. I see many riders losing points and even getting eliminated for some situations that are completely avoidable. Attire and Tack Most important, make sure your helmet is correctly fitted and secure. The chinstrap should be adjusted to hold the helmet on your head: it cannot have a loop in it. An improperly fitted helmet can mean elimination, because it is a safety issue. Be sure you are wearing your number. The number should preferably be on the left side although there is currently no official ruling on this. The left side is the traditional side. You will not be allowed to compete without a number. Be ready to go into the arena on time. After the judge has signaled you to enter the arena and start your test there is a time limit of 45 seconds for you to come down the center line, whether you have had a chance to ride around the arena or not. If you do not come down the center line within 45 seconds, you can be eliminated. Being on time is the responsibility of the rider and not of the ring steward. If there are two or more rings at your show, be sure that you know the signal for your ring: sometimes one ring uses a bell, and another one a whistle, etc. Check to make sure you are listening for the right signal. You are allowed to enter the apron of the arena once the rider ahead of you has performed their final salute. Be properly dressed for your level, because you can also be eliminated for improper attire. At Training Level, you should wear: 1) a short riding coat of a conservative color, with a tie, choker, stock, or stand-up
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collar. 2) White or light colored breeches or jodhpurs with boots or jodhpur boots. You may also wear half chaps, gators or leggings in solid black or brown, with no fringe, and matching the color of your boots. If you choose to wear leggings or gators, be sure they are of smooth leather or leather-like material. 3) A protective helmet that meets or exceeds USEF standards. Your horse must also wear the correct tack and equipment for your level. At Training Level, he should wear: 1) an English type saddle with flaps and stirrups; 2) a plain snaffle bridle with a noseband. The noseband can be a regular caveson, or a dropped, flash, or crossed noseband. The bit must be some type of snaffle, and it must be smooth with a solid surface. There are many types of snaffle, some of which are legal while others are not permitted. If you have any doubts or concerns, consult the USEF rulebook (DR 121.) 3) Fly hoods are permitted. But remember, no martingales, bit guards, gadgets, ear cotton, bell boots or bandages. Any illegal equipment could cause you to be eliminated. Riding Your Test The purpose of Training Level is to confirm that the horse demonstrates correct basics, is supple and moves freely forward into a clear rhythm with a steady tempo, accepting contact with the bit. All trot work may be performed rising or sitting unless otherwise stated. You may choose to rise the trot in some movements and sit it in others, but you will present a more harmonious picture if you don’t switch from one to the other in the middle of a movement. Once you have entered the apron of the arena, it is courteous to tell your horse’s number to the judge/scribe along with a short word of acknowledgement, i.e., “Good morning, I am number 23.” In all Training Level tests, you will enter the arena at a trot and halt at X. Be sure to hold the halt for three seconds. Make sure you clearly salute by putting both reins in one hand and letting the other hand drop to your side while you bow your head. There is no ruling on which arm to use, but saluting with the right arm is more traditional. Forgetting to salute is an error, which means two points off your final score. During your test, be sure not to use your voice, which means any words, sounds, clicks, clucks, etc. If the judge hears you using your voice, this will mean two points off each scoring box in which a sound was heard. Make sure that you use your corners and pay attention to the letters and your accuracy and geometry. Be aware of your canter leads and know what to do if you get a wrong lead. If your horse strikes off on the wrong lead, do correct it with a transition and try again as soon as possible so that it will only affect one movement. After your final salute, you must leave the arena mounted in a free walk at A. Do not get off your horse or you might be eliminated. If you do something like drop your whip and need to get it, or your horse has lost a shoe, or something like that, tell your judge or your ring steward and they will organize getting it picked up and returned to you. If you feel like you need to get off for some reason during your test, you should pull up, salute and ask to be excused. This will end your test and you will get no score. Here’s hoping this is the start of many successful shows. Be prepared, try to relax, smile, and enjoy the ride.
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P U C T AVAT
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Aiken Polo Club
October 19th, 2019 at 2:30 pm. Food, bar, games, prizes, and polo! To benefit the Mac Westmoreland Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit www.campgravatt.org
October-November 2019
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Camden SC I-20 Exit 101 The Aiken Horse
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Secret Lives of Horses
Around the World with Wjedro
By Nancy Johnson, Photography by Gary Knoll
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henever the dressage rider and trainer Jessica Jo ( JJ) Tate visits “Will,” her 34-year-old former Grand Prix dressage horse, she’s reminded of how much he deserves his retirement at Toi Trent’s Quintynne Hill farm just outside of Aiken. “He literally traveled around the world with me,” she says. JJ, who has earned numerous national and regional titles while competing 29 horses at the FEI levels, credits Will with “putting her name on the map.” Throughout his career, the Westfalen gelding was known as Wjedro, though he answers to Will, Willis, or Vilmos, which is Hungarian for William. JJ was just out of high school when she had an opportunity to serve as an apprentice in Hungary with the Hungarian Olympic dressage rider Gyula Dallos. She took two horses over with her to compete in the Young Rider division. “I had an incredible experience in the seven months I was there and came home thinking I knew everything,” she says with a laugh. But she soon realized that she had a lot more to learn, and made some changes in order to return to Hungary. She sold one of her horses and leased out the other one before she went back. JJ first met Will when she returned to Gyula’s farm outside of Budapest. The horse, 12 years old at the time, was owned by a former Swiss Olympian. “She had done a great job training him, but decided to sell him because he was not so super easy,” JJ explains. “In fact, he was always what another of my trainers would call a ‘strong chestnut’; meaning he had that little bit of extra fire.” “I wanted to learn [Gyula’s] way of training. It was very gymnastic with no pressure on the horses and everything wound up being Grand Prix. I had brought a young horse with me, but as soon as I rode Will a few times I knew it would be just amazing to have this horse to teach me along with Grand Prix days with JJ these incredible trainers,” JJ says. “We were so lucky to be able to purchase him.” In 1998, JJ and Will competed successfully in the Young Riders in Europe. “We really trekked around! Poland, Germany, Austria, and so on,” she says. In the spring of 1999, shortly before heading home, she and Will had their Grand Prix debut together. “He had never shown Grand Prix, but he had all the pieces. Ironically, I bought him to be my schoolmaster, but he was never easy point and steer; he made me ride for every step,” she says. Back in the United States in 1999, JJ led the Region 2 Dressage Team to a silver medal and became number one in the country among Young Riders at the Grand Prix level. Will continued as JJ’s Grand Prix partner for several more years, achieving much success. “I had so many ‘firsts’ with this horse. My first time competing in Europe, my first Grand Prix in Europe, my first Grand Prix in the U.S. and my first ‘10’ – on our one-tempis! I’ll never
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forget that,” she says. In 2002, Will incurred an injury in the paddock that resulted in a bowed tendon. JJ’s vets treated the injury aggressively for two years, but when he wasn’t responding well, they suggested turning him out for a while, because nothing else was working. JJ decided to take him to her student, Toi Trent, to recuperate at her farm that had beautiful large pastures. “I told her to give him some time off and then rehab him. If he seemed good, she should go ahead and show him,” JJ says. Toi did exactly that. “Will came to me in November of 2004 and by
Showing with Toi February 2005, I was riding him,” she says. “In April, JJ came to my farm to teach a clinic, so I had my first lesson on him; in August I showed him – my first time Prix St. Georges and got a qualifying score,” she remembers with a smile. Upon receiving a second qualifying score, Toi received her Silver Medal. She continued to show him throughout 2005 and 2006. “Then JJ and I talked about it and decided to retire him,” she says, adding, “It seemed appropriate that she earned her Gold Medal on him and then I earned my Silver with him.” JJ and Toi often reminisce about how much they learned by showing Will. They agree he wasn’t the easiest, but his exuberance was what made him extra special. “We both say we wonder what it would have been like to ride him then, knowing what we know now,” Toi says laughing. Since then, Will has lived like a king. In nice weather, he moseys around a huge rolling pasture with his friends, but if it’s hot, wet, or cold, he’s in the comfort of his stall right next to the show horses. “When it’s time to come in from the pasture, he trots in and insists on being the first one through the gate.” “He is just amazingly sound and has been very healthy,” Toi says. “But he doesn’t have many teeth left.” She is very careful preparing Will’s diet; everything he eats is soaked so that it is soft enough for him to chew with his gums. Will’s best friend is Toi’s current Grand Prix partner, Tyberius, or Ty for short. “It’s so cute to see them when Ty comes back from a show. Will is very glad to see Ty and the two of them hang really close for a while,” she says. “I wonder if Ty is telling him about where he went or how he performed. I can imagine Will saying, ‘That’s nothing! I traveled all over Europe.’”
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Dressage for Every Horse
Riding and Driving with Sara Odom By Anna Lewis, Photography by Gary Knoll
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ome things are just meant to be: Sara Odom was meant to be a ridden and driven dressage trainer. Born into a family of professional horseman in Bermuda, she has been surrounded by horses her entire life. She had her first official pony at the age of two, a pinto Shetland named Moby Dick. Her mother, Susan English, was a dressage trainer and barn manager, as well as chef d’equipe for Bermuda at the Paralympic Games in 1996. Her father, Norman Terceira, owned a riding school, was a farrier, and had a carriage business for weddings and tourism in Bermuda. Sara grew up riding and driving horses from a very young age. “In Bermuda, trucks weren’t allowed on the roads on Sundays, so I would go with my dad in a carriage,” she says. “I began driving with my dad at age five. My mom would pick me up from primary school in the carriage with Peter, our Hackney pony, and let me drive him home.” In addition to learning to drive at a young age, she also trained in both dressage and show jumping. In 1992 and 1994, Sara rode in an international competition held in Jamaica between Barbados, Trinidad, the Bahamas, the United States, Bermuda, and the British Virgin Islands. In 1992, she won both the individual dressage and show jumping gold medals, and in 1994 the team won bronze. In 1997, Sara and her mom, Susan, moved to Aiken for more opportunities in the equine industry. “Bermuda is small and expensive, and my mom wanted to have a go at running a breeding program,” she says. Susan had a successful breeding operation in Aiken, and over the last few years has reoriented her business into a retirement farm. Sara describes Aiken and Bermuda as similar communities in many ways. “People are very friendly both in Bermuda and in the South. The biggest differences I noticed when we first moved here was the speed on the roads and the sales tax at the stores.” When Sara and Susan arrived in Aiken, the Aiken Driving Club was transitioning from pleasure driving to competitive driving. They weren’t yet holding recognized shows, but offered schooling shows. Competitive driving, with dressage and cones, was new to Sara. Her Hackney pony, Peter, came over from Bermuda with them, and she soon started competing with him in local schooling shows. Peter’s show name was High and Mighty Victory, and he comes with quite a story of his own. The pony was originally imported to Bermuda from Canada, and Sara says her dad acquired him as an extra thrown in on a trade deal for a dairy cow. He was already broke to drive and Sara broke him to ride when she was about 11 years old. She did a lot of gymkhanas with him in addition to driving and he was her competition partner until she retired him in 2009. One of Sara’s other equine partners was a Thoroughbred named Bear. Sara trained Bear from the start and competed with him in low-level eventing and show jumping. Then she fell in love with dressage and decided to make that her main focus. In 2017 she achieved her USDF Bronze Medal with Bear, and in 2018 earned a Fourth level score towards her Silver Medal before Bear retired. “While chasing my own goals of earning medals and training horses part-time, I had been flirting with the idea of becoming a professional, making a career out of training horses and riders,” says Sara, who graduated from USC Aiken with a degree in Psychology and Sociology, and became a certified medical coder. “I had already picked up a few clients that were neighbors and friends, and I just decided to go for it. Lucky for me, my good friend Laura Klecker [a dressage trainer] needed to go on maternity leave about the same time.” Sara took over lessons with many of Laura’s students
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during her maternity leave, and soon started to pick up her own clients, building her training business with a focus on dressage for both riding and driving horses. “Dressage benefits any horse, at any level, in any discipline,” explains Sara. “Whether you are on them or behind them in a carriage, it’s just a difference of aids.” The natural aids for ridden dressage are voice, seat, legs, hands, and the artificial aids are spurs and whips. The natural aids in driven dressage are voice (which replaces both seat and leg aids) and hands, with the whip being the artificial aid. “Your hands are the last resort,” says Sara. “Remember, you are driving the horse or riding the horse from back to front. When driving, the whip becomes your legs. Instead of inside leg to outside rein think inside
whip to outside rein.” For bending or moving laterally, the whip cues are given on the left or right sides. To increase speed or impulsion the whip cue is in the middle of the horse. In driven dressage, the driver can use their voice aid in competition, where in ridden dressage it is not allowed. “For drivers, the more you use your voice, is like the more you use your seat. It is amazing the number of vocal cues the horse can learn. One of the first things I ask when I meet a new driver is what is your vocabulary? The words each driver uses can be different. For example, one might say ‘easy’ and another one might use ‘steady’ for a half halt.” Although the principles of dressage are the same whether the horse is under saddle or pulling a carriage, ridden and driven dressage place different demands on a horse. “It is very different to carry a rider and themselves in correct posture than to pull something and carry themselves in correct posture,” says Sara. “A lot of times drivers will have dressage riders ride their horses to help the horse learn to carry himself first and then pull.” Sara’s teaching philosophy is “the horse comes first.” The rider or driver and horse relationship comes as a close second. “It is important that the riders or drivers have good relationships with their horses and are having fun,” she says, noting that she teaches drivers at all levels. She recently acquired an older driving horse named Billy, who has seen it all, and plans to start offering beginner driving lessons with Billy in the future. Sara says she considers her biggest influences to be her passion for horses, her parents, and her clients. “I am still just trying to pinch myself. I love what I do, and not everyone gets to say that. My favorite part is the ‘lightbulb’ moments, whether it comes from the horses, riders, or drivers.”
To inquire about lessons or obtain further information, contact Sara Odum at eternalequus@aol.com or 803-640-5715.
October-November 2019
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Michael J. Henaghan
Old School Wisdom for the Next Generation By Christine Rhodes
B
ehind every great rider stands a slew of true horsemen committed to strengthening the sport in the next generation. Even those at the top had to get their start somewhere. Michael Henaghan, 76, was involved in the training of some of America’s best riders, including the Olympic showjumping rider Beezie Madden. Henaghan, who now lives in Kansas City, has dedicated his life to producing some of the hunter jumper world’s greatest riders. Now, after a long and successful career in the industry, Henaghan will be visiting Aiken for the winter to continue to pass on his wealth of knowledge and experience to anyone willing to learn. Originally from Connecticut, Henaghan grew up in the golden age of equestrian sport. Despite not being from a wealthy family, he had the opportunity to train at Sunnyfield Farm owned by the A&P heiress Josephine McIntosh who brought in top trainers from Europe to train her daughter. He learned from the legendary Gordon Wright and Gerald Pack, both of whom taught many of the most influential horsemen in America. Later, he apprenticed under the Swiss rider Hann Senn, and he credits these men as the greatest help to him as a young professional. “Watching good teaching helped me learn what was required to reach the top,” Henaghan said. “I was fortunate to grow up watching high level competition with many of the best in the world.” In the 1950s, horse showing was different. “There were fewer shows and increased exposure to other disciplines.” Henaghan remembers attending shows such as Devon with breed classes, sidesaddle, and more. “Once you were ready to step out on your own, you started teaching and trying to produce something,” he continued. So he moved to the Midwest to work as a private trainer for a family. “I traveled with them to shows and learned to work through the ins and outs of the horse business.” After the birth of his son, Henaghan and his wife at the time moved to Wisconsin and took over the management of the Milwaukee Hunt Club. It was here that he first met Beezie Madden (then Beezie Patton), whose family belonged to the club. From instructing some of her earliest riding lessons to eventually moving to the East Coast to coach Beezie through her final years as a junior, Henaghan played an integral part in producing one of the most recognizable names in the sport. However, Henaghan’s initial goal was not to be famous. Instead, he focused on producing the best horse and rider teams possible, and soon found great success coaching junior riders. Two of his students, Cheryl Wilson and Raymond Texel, won the USEF Medal Finals in back-toback years (1988 and 1989 respectively), with Texel also winning the Maclay Finals the same year. These major wins boosted Henaghan’s career just before the real estate market crash in New York City in the early 1990s. “When the phone stopped ringing, I moved to Upperville, Virginia for a job with Bert and Diana Firestone,” he said. The Firestones bred and owned Eclipse-Award-winning Thoroughbred racehorses and owned Newstead Farm, where they bred and trained show horses. While in Upperville, Henaghan worked with the Firestones to produce some top hunters. His priority was, and remains, “soundness and longevity through good horsemanship, not over jumping.” Today Henaghan is largely retired from the showing aspect of the sport, but he continues to devote his time to developing the next generation of riders through clinics and mentorship for young professionals. He sums up his teaching philosophy with the idea of “developing simplicity,” highlighting the need for understanding the
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“why” behind the basics – thumbs on top, heels down, bending, and so on. His style is marked by positivity, and he says he wants to be supportive of his students, whether a pony kid or a professional adult looking to start a lifelong career in the horse industry. “The most wonderful thing someone can do as a teacher is produce greater than yourself,” Henaghan believes, and this remains his goal. With a career spanning nearly six decades, Henaghan has watched equestrian sport grow up. “It is easy to forget how young our sport is in America,” said Henaghan. When asked about the state of American showjumping as compared to the old days he said, “It is easy to get caught up in the negativity instead of focusing on how far we have come in a relatively short amount of time.” Henaghan does believe there are lessons to be learned from the old ways of doing things. When he grew up riding with Gerald Pack and Gordon Wright, foxhunting was part of the training, which “made riders less timid, toughened them up and taught them balance and how to go forward.” Everyone used to ride both hunters and jumpers, but now the disciplines have become increasingly specialized and mutually exclusive. “Horse shows were the test,” whereas nowadays “horseshows are everything and the horse becomes a vehicle towards a goal.” Nevertheless, Henaghan certainly admires many riders today. Eager to see who could rise among the ranks as the next Beezie Madden, Kent Farrington, or McLain Ward (members of the highly successful U.S. showjumping team), Henaghan noted the unique depth of riders in the U.S. “It won’t be the same world I grew up in, but it shouldn’t necessarily be.” Now, with significant sponsorship and the ability to source horses from anywhere in the world, “the quality of top tier riders today is crazy.” He sees several underutilized resources available to riders today, one being the Internet and another, sports psychology. Henaghan recalled a horse-shopping trip in Europe where he visited a decrepit barn in rural Poland, where a talented rider showed a sales horse after having learned to ride by watching YouTube videos of McLain Ward. “You can learn so much by watching,” he said. He also believes there is significant benefit to understanding sports psychology, not only for upper level riders, but for everyone interested in improving their riding. Around the first of 2020, Henaghan will be arriving in Aiken with a client from the Midwest. Drawn here by the desire to spend the winter somewhere warmer and with less snow than Kansas City, he also has several strong ties to Aiken, since he has been a long-time family friend of Rick and Cathy Cram, who own Highfields Event Center in Aiken. Currently, he travels to teach one or two clinics per month across the country. When he is not busy traveling this winter, he says he wants to “make himself available to any individual or group who wants to learn.” At this point in his career, he has no desire to run a stable with a barn full of clients. Instead, he seeks to impart his lifetime of experience, and has even offered to volunteer his time mentoring young professionals. Henaghan said that his greatest accomplishment after 56 years in the horse business is “surviving!” But, his work is still far from over. He is interested in seeing what’s next for the sport and is glad to be able to contribute to the growth of a new generation of horsemen and women by sharing wisdom gained from a previous era and his wealth of experience. Contact Michael Henaghan at 818-402-0008 or mjhenaghan@gmail. com
October-November 2019
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Inside 59 60 64 66 68 73 76 77 82
Book Review Retired Racehorse Project The Interview: Julie Robins Mongol Derby NYTS Tournament Calendar of Events Directory of Services Classifieds Index of Advertisers
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October-November 2019
Book Review
The Great Sweepstakes of 1877
A True Story of Southern Grit, Gilded Age Tycoons and a Race That Galvanized the Nation By Mike Shrager Lyons Press Review by Diana Hunt
O
n October 24, 1877, there was only a handful of men in the House of Representatives, and the United States Senate was not even in session. They had been adjourned so that everyone could go to Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore to witness the “great race” involving three of the nation’s best-known Thoroughbred racehorses. It was billed as “East vs. West” but in reality the race was “North vs. South.” Times were tense; the Civil War had ended not much more than a decade before. Another source of tension was the recent presidential election of Republican Rutherford B. Hayes by a single electoral vote over Democrat Samuel J. Tilden, who won the popular vote. In the Great Race, the North was represented by two “Eastern” thoroughbreds: Parole owned by Pierre Lorillard IV of New Jersey, and Tom Ochiltree owned by George Lorillard of New York. The Lorillards were brothers: high rolling robber barons who owned the P&G Lorillard Tobacco Company. The third starter, from the West, was Ten Broeck from Kentucky, a horse that handed the first Kentucky Derby winner, Aristides, his only loss. Ten Broeck was owned by a teetotaling, hardscrabble man named Frank Harper. To make the race even more controversial, Ten Broeck’s jockey, Billy Walker, was a former slave. Ten Broeck, from the West, was the heavy favorite, with Tom Ochiltree as the second choice, and Parole rated third. But Parole stunned the tumultuous crowd when he came from behind and won with a fivelength lead.
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The Great Sweepstakes of 1877 was written by Mark Shrager, a turf writer and racing historian. It is a good read for a serious racing fan, detailing the outstanding racing records of the three horses in the race. Shrager also provides many facts: racing times, jockey weights, prize money, and so on. He describes the racing world of the late 1800s and compares the three 19th century horses to the superstars of the track today. Racing was tougher for horses then, often racing two and three days in a row, and up to four miles per race Unfortunately the book might not be quite as compelling to more casual followers of racing. The description of the Great Race itself – only a quarter of the way into the book – falls flat. The whole point of the story seems over before it begins. The remaining three-quarters of the 352 page tome is taken up in excruciating detail by the lives and times of the Lorillards and the further achievements of their horses and trainers. The epilogue details the rest of Frank Harper’s life and that of his horses.
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Alison Chubb of AMC Equestrian riding Missed Him in the show jumper competition
Reimagining Thoroughbreds The Retired Racehorse Project By Pam Gleason
J
ust over 400 Thoroughbred horses and their trainers arrived at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington during the first week of October. They came from nearby farms in Kentucky, and from Tennessee, Ohio and North Carolina. They came from as far away as Washington State, California, Maine, and Texas. Some came from Canada. They were all there to compete in the annual Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover competition, which challenges trainers to take a recently retired racehorse and prepare it for a new career. To be eligible, horses must have raced or had a published work within 18 months of the competition’s start in December, and they must not have had more than 15 retraining rides before the beginning of that month. The makeover includes competitions in 10 diverse disciplines, culminating in a finale, at which the winners vie for the title of America’s Most Wanted Thoroughbred. This title comes with a $10,000 prize, as well as serious bragging rights. The competition was the brainchild of the eventing rider and coach, Steuart Pittman, who wanted to promote the retraining of Thoroughbreds once their racing days were over. The first two makeover competitions (2013 and 2014) were held at the Pimlico racetrack in Baltimore and were limited to a select group of professionals. In 2015, the event was moved to the Kentucky Horse Park and was opened up to anyone who had an eligible horse. Much to the surprise of the organizers, applications poured in from all over the country. The makeover was not just successful: it was a hit, attracting professionals, amateurs, and juniors from near and far. In 2019, the fifth year that the makeover was held at the horse park, 673 trainers were accepted to the competition, the second highest number of accepted applicants in the event’s history. By the time October came around, the number of horses slated for Kentucky was down to 474. The organizers encouraged trainers to enter their horses in more than one discipline, and most did. The highest number of horses was entered in the show hunter division (178) followed by dressage (177) and show jumper (136.) The smallest division this year, as in years past, was polo, which had just 16 entrants. Freestyle, barrel racing, ranch work, and field hunter all had fewer than 50 horses, while competitive trail and eventing attracted 80 and 93 respectively. This year, the organizers added some new requirements for horses in the makeover. The first was that all horses had to get a microchip, which is now a requirement for horses competing in United States Equestrian Federation events, and is becoming the standard way to identify racehorses as well. (Microchips entered the Thoroughbred world in 2017, and lip tattoos, which have been used since the 1940s, are being discontinued in 2020.) The second was that all horses had to pass a veterinary exam, which included an assessment of the horse’s body condition score and soundness, along with heart and respiration rate and temperature. The arrival exam put additional emphasis on promoting equine welfare, which has been one of the makeover’s goals since its inception. After taking their horses to the arrival exam, trainers had a day to familiarize themselves and their mounts with the Kentucky Horse Park, and even to school in many of the competition areas. Although there were certainly some horses that seemed to be in high spirits early on that first day, what was most remarkable was how well behaved the horses were. Many competitors said that they felt especially comfortable to be at what was essentially a breed show. The other thing that was palpable was the friendly and encouraging atmosphere: the feeling was more of a club than of a horse show. Everyone seemed to be appreciating everyone else’s horse, almost as much as they were showing off their own. “When you look at some of the things these horses do, it is just
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amazing,” said Julia Oughton, who is the program developer for the Retired Racehorse Project. “A year ago, they were racehorses, and now look at them. I tear up almost every day, when I think that without something like this, a lot of these horses would have just been thrown away.”
Jenny Bee, a professional from Virginia, competes Just Banks in the freestyle division.
One of the original goals of the makeover was to show how capable former racehorses are, and thus to increase their value. Although the RRP is part of a wider trend in repurposing Thoroughbreds, it has definitely had its own impact. Sound, healthy, and athletic retiring racehorses are starting to command higher prices as more people appreciate their worth. The rising stock of the OTTB can be seen in statistics compiled by the RRP office. For instance, in 2018, the average purchase price of all the horses in the makeover was $1,200. This year, that average rose to $1,960, an increase of 63 percent. Some trainers keep their projects, but almost a third of RRP graduates are for sale, at the event itself or privately afterwards. Prices for RRP graduates are also increasing, with a reported average sale price of almost $10,000 last year. This year, some trainers have even reported offers in the $30,000 range. Although more than half of all the trainers said they got their horses directly from the racetrack, many also found their horses through a reseller, or from a nonprofit group that specializes in finding new homes for OTTBs. A number of nonprofits now support trainers who adopt horses and then compete with them. For instance, Alison Chubb, an eventing professional from Cochranville, Pennsylvania who owns AMC Equestrian, got her 2019 RRP horse Missed Him through After the Races, in Elkton, Maryland. The horse came off the track through the New Start program, which is associated with the Pennsylvania Horseman’s Protection and Benevolent Association. The heads of both organizations were at the makeover to cheer on Alison and other horses that came through their programs. They provided logo wear for their horses and even some travel expenses. “They gave us a good social media presence and they really supported us,” said Alison. “It helps them get the word out that they aren’t just finding good situations for these horses, but the horses are really, truly going on to do good things. The Retired Racehorse Project is a cool step in the process for them, because it’s a quick result. They got the horse from the track three days after he raced, put him on the trailer and now, ten months later, here he is competing. That’s great for his owner to see:
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here he is rehomed and retrained and excelling in a new career.” Other rehoming organizations have gotten even more deeply involved in the makeover. As an example, Suzanna Norris, who is the executive director of Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds in Coco, Florida has been to the makeover five times as a trainer with adoptable horses from her organization. “The makeover is really powerful for what we are trying to do, which is create awareness and prove to people that these horses can do pretty much anything that you want them to do,” she said. “They have good brains. We want to open up different markets for them. A lot of people think Thoroughbreds are just jumping horses, but you go to the makeover and you see them doing trail, ranch work, polo. Just being there and being able to network and collaborate makes me inspired all over again.” Suzanna said that the makeover has helped her organization form stronger ties with the racing industry. Hidden Acres brought three horses to the makeover Cristi Botsch with Lauren’s Flashback, rescued last December from a feedlot with a this year, all of which came from Baytree Farm, a racing body score of 1 and now competing as a show hunter in the Makeover. Cristi brought operation with locations in Florida and Kentucky. “Hope” and another horse, driving 1,700 miles from Arizona. “They funded the whole program for us,” she said. “They paid for us to feed them for the year, to take them potential of the Thoroughbred. A striking thing about talking to to shows and to prep them. It was a really cool setup, because it showed makeover trainers is that they all extoll the great qualities of the breed, that there is a lot of good that can happen in the racing industry. I think expounding on their tremendous heart, athleticism, willingness and this a really neat example of how other big race barns could step up and trainability. While heart and athleticism have been identified with help market aftercare programs in our nation.” Thoroughbreds for a long time, the concept that the Thoroughbred And although aftercare programs are proliferating and more people is an especially trainable breed might be a new one to some people. are seeing value in OTTBs, some former racehorses still do find In fact, one of the things that has historically deterred people from themselves in dire situations. The RRP reports that of the 474 horses considering an OTTB as a sport or performance horse is the stereotype that made the final entry, 10 (just over 2%) were “self-rescues” that were of a crazy, hot-headed, hard-mouthed, runaway animal. If you attend the acquired from low end auctions and feedlots. One of those was the makeover, however, it becomes clear that this stereotype is not rooted in pretty grey mare Laurens Flashback, a 15.2 hand 4-year-old that Cristi reality. Botsch and her mother spotted on the Facebook page of a feedlot in “I’ve always loved Thoroughbreds. I’ve ridden them all my life,” North Texas last December. said Richard Lamb, an Aiken-based professional who has judged at “My mom sent me her video from the Facebook page and said, this the makeover for several years and this year coordinated and ran the horse just speaks to me. We have to save her,” said Cristi, who is an jumping rings. “I think they’re the best athletes on earth, and that’s amateur and a lover of Thoroughbreds. “We didn’t even expect her to be what I always say to people. You don’t have to go to Europe to buy a rideable, but we just had to do something about her.” warmblood. Come to Kentucky for makeover week, and you’ll see 400 Cristi and her mother live in Phoenix, Arizona, so they made of the most suitable horses for what you want to do all in one place. arrangements to have the mare shipped to them. When she arrived, they Even when I judged last year, I think I would have brought home 60 were shocked by her condition. “Her body score was one; you could see or 70 percent of the horses in my ring. Not necessarily because they every single bone in that poor horse’s body,” said Cristi. She also had a were all such athletes, but because they have good brains and good distended belly, which had led the people at the feedlot to believe she movement and they’ve seen so much. Thoroughbreds off the track have was pregnant. Fortunately that was not the case. “We hoped for the best a lot of experience, even if they don’t have so much schooling, and that for her, but honestly, in the beginning, when we came out we were never experience makes up for a lot. sure if we would see a horse that was still living. It was so, so sad.” “I saw world class horses there this week,” he continued. “I saw some In a few months, the horse, now named Hope, had gained enough event horses that are potential five star horses – Badminton, Burghley weight and condition that Cristi started to ride her. She found her horses. One thing that I have seen over the years is that each year the identity through her tattoo, and tracked down her race trainer, who quality of horses is higher, and the quality of training is higher too.” was shocked to discover that the mare that he thought he had sold And what of the winner? On Saturday, after two days of preliminary to a riding home had ended up where she did. Cristi got her papers competition, the top five horses in each discipline came back to the and records, and soon discovered both that she was RRP eligible and indoor arena to perform, and the judges made their final selection. Then that she was also a phenomenal mover, as willing and easy to train as the winners of each discipline had a chance to explain to the audience any horse Cristi had ever ridden. “I was in awe of her; she was totally why they thought their horse should win. After this, voting was opened natural,” she said. Hope went on to compete in the show hunter division to the public via text. The overall winner was Cowboy Swagger, a barrel at the makeover. racing horse piloted by Fallon Taylor, a professional rider from Texas. “She became the best horse I ever could have imagined,” said Cristi. This is the first year that a barrel horse has won. “She deserved that shot at being wonderful. . . . I think people assume “These guys are made to run,” said Fallon after her win. “They’re made that the horses in kill pens end up there because they’re bad or there’s for this job. It’s our job to be kind, be patient and help these horses learn something wrong with them. But that’s not the case. They end up there the pattern and learn their new job. We need to go out and get these because they slip through the cracks. They all have potential.” horses and scoop them up!” One thing that the makeover has definitely done is highlight the
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Competing in the Makeover A Personal Story By Pam Gleason
I
t was December 12, 2018 and we were at Equine Rescue of Aiken watching Rock’s Dream, an adoptable off-the-track Thoroughbred, gallop around the arena, his tail waving like a flag. We were there because Gary Knoll saw Rock’s picture on the rescue’s Facebook page, read that he was 17.2 hands tall, and knew he had to have him. The horse, a 5 year old dark bay, had just arrived from the track and was not officially available yet, but we were pretty sure they would allow us to adopt him. And then Caroline Mulstay, the rescue manager, said the magic words: “He’s RRP eligible.” RRP stands for Retired Racehorse Project, and what she meant was, as a recently retired racehorse with no other training, Rocky was qualified to compete in the annual RRP Thoroughbred Makeover competition that takes place at the Kentucky Horse Park each October. We had never done the makeover before, but had always been intrigued by it. And now, we would have the horse. Of course, he came home in our trailer. Once we got him home, we realized that another horse we had adopted from the rescue earlier in the year, Big Blue Arrow, was also qualified. Arrow, who was then 4, is a dapple grey mare that we had gotten as a polo prospect and then turned out, since she needed more time to relax and to grow. With two eligible horses, we made our applications to be makeover trainers, and formulated a plan: I would train Arrow (who is officially Gary’s horse) for polo, while he would turn Rocky into an event horse. In the interests of full disclosure, Gary had never evented before, and neither had I. I rode hunters growing up and may have done a few combined tests. But I converted to polo in college and never looked back. Gary rode like a wild thing as a child, worked on the racetrack a bit, and started playing polo about a decade ago. He also trained some polo ponies for driving, and successfully competed a pair at the Katydid CDE. We had both done a little foxhunting in Aiken and had trained some of our horses to jump, but had not competed. Our makeover journey got off to a bit of a slow start with Rocky when we discovered that he had a phobia about being mounted. It’s never a good feeling to be trying to get on a horse that is intent on running off. When that horse is 17.2 hands tall (and you have no idea how he will react once you get up there), it becomes downright nerve-racking. Fortunately, once you did get your leg over, he usually settled right down. But it is not an exaggeration to say that it was February before Gary could expect to get on him like he was a normal horse. Meanwhile, Arrow was a gem. She was initially not very keen on steering or stopping, but she was sensible and easy from the start. I had her neck-reining and stick and balling in no time, and was working on rollbacks and getting her to use her hind end. It troubled me that she was not very quick and reactive, since my style of polo calls for a hotter horse, but I figured maybe that was a good thing, since everyone doesn’t get along with the horses that suit me. My first clue that she was getting bigger than expected was when I had to find a longer girth for my polo saddle, since she didn’t fit any of them. My second clue was when I had the vet come to draw blood for a Coggins test. “Oh, it’s a big mare,” she exclaimed when she saw her. Uh-oh. Not
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that there are not some larger horses in polo, because there are. But she was bulking up in her work and feeding program, and was not feeling like the little horse I had started with. Plus, she didn’t really want to be a polo horse. What she wanted to be was a dressage horse. I had never competed in dressage either, but I figured, why not? Over the summer, Gary and I both competed at some schooling events and shows. Arrow took an unplanned eight-week vacation in the middle of the summer, first for a low grade fever and then for a cut on her pastern. This would not normally be worrisome, but when you are aiming for the makeover competition in early October, you need every day you can get. By the middle of August, the makeover, which had been a vague idea of something we might do in the fall, started to take shape as a reality. We had to make concrete plans: submit our final entries to the RRP, reserve stalls at the Kentucky Horse Park, reserve rooms at the hotel. Even while making all of these plans, I don’t think I ever believed that we would really go. For one thing, although our horses were lovely and we were working with them every day, they still seemed so green, especially when we went to local competitions, where most of the horses had more experience. And then, it was October 1, and we were there. Both our horses passed their vet inspection on the first day, and we went out to school in the arenas at the horse park, which was an amazing experience. One of the best things was being surrounded by all the other young Thoroughbreds. When we went to horse shows in Aiken, there was always a feeling that our horses were good but a little green. Here everyone was a little green. We fit in perfectly. Arrow and I competed in dressage and eventing, and did respectably in each – I even finished in the top ten among amateurs in dressage, though with 120 competitors, I was considerably further down the list in the overall standings. I was particularly grateful for the help of my neighbor Amy McElroy, who is an S dressage judge and trainer. Not only did she help me with my test, she also lent me her beautiful competition clothes, giving me a polished and experienced look. Rocky unfortunately had gotten a bit of a stone bruise just before we left Aiken. Standing in the stalls at the horse park aggravated it, and so Gary reluctantly decided to scratch. It was disappointing, but it’s what happens with horses sometimes. Reflecting on the experience, there are two things that stand out for me. One is that the makeover competition is a fantastic initiative. It encourages horse people to consider OTTBs to be their next competition partners, and it gives them a concrete goal to work towards, which means that they really have to focus on getting their new horse into a solid training program. It always sounds like a meaningless cliché when people say things like “just to compete is to win.” But in this case, that is what it really felt like. However any of us finished in the standings, teaching a racehorse a whole new job in less than a year is a real accomplishment, and a testament to the versatility and trainability of the world’s fastest horses. The other thing that struck me is that, if you want to do something like the makeover, you’d have a hard time finding a better place to be than Aiken. No matter what the discipline, there are frequent and relatively inexpensive showing and schooling opportunities here all year round. There are professionals from every discipline too, if you need a little help. And if you want a sound, healthy recently retired racehorse, Equine Rescue of Aiken probably has exactly the animal you are looking for. If I decide to do this again, it’s the first place I’ll go.
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The Interview
Julie Robins of Aiken Horsemanship Academy By Mary Jane Howell
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he inaugural Interview column focuses on Julie Robins, whose Aiken Horsemanship Academy has been helping riders and their horses for nearly 15 years. A lifelong horsewoman, Julie teaches natural horsemanship in her clinics, classes, and private lessons. Her Dragonfly Farm is home base, but she can also be found helping veterans as the Equine Connection Coach with Saratoga Warhorse.
Books currently on your nightstand?
That would be a very long list. I love to read and have a ton of books on my Kindle and Audible. That being said, the top five books on my nightstand are: Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens, Elephant Company by Vicki Croke, Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill, Girl Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hill, and The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins (no relation.)
If you could take a riding lesson from anyone, who would it be?
I would love to have a lesson with Lorenzo the Flying Frenchman. He makes riding roman with multiple horses (all bridleless) look effortless. That would be such an amazing experience!
Coffee or tea in the morning?
Tea, usually herbal. And it has to be in my favorite mug. At the moment that is a lovely oversized dragonfly mug.
Name one place in the world where you would like to ride. New Zealand.
What was the most difficult part of starting your Aiken Horsemanship Academy and the most rewarding aspect?
There really wasn’t a hard thing about starting AHA. Honestly, I was too naive to know what starting a business based on my passion would be all about. The hard part was keeping it going after a few years. I had no business experience—my Master’s degree was in architecture and urban planning. The most rewarding part is seeing people regain confidence to get back in the saddle, and helping people find the joy of true connection with their horse. I had a client who had had a horrible fall and had crawled the half mile back to her house with broken ribs and other injuries. The day she was able to get back on her horse was a magical one. I will never forget her smile as she finally sat back in the saddle to ride with confidence. I had a client who had been in the horse industry forever. She played polo for 40 years and had one perspective on how horses should go and be. Watching her discover the joy of pulling out the greatness that was already in her mare was magical. It opened a whole other world for her and all of her horses.
Favorite way to end the day?
Listening to my horses munch on hay and watching the sun go down. Or watching the sun go down at the beach. I am lucky enough to get to do the first one all the time.
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If you could star in any movie, which one would it be? I think it would have to be The Black Stallion. I’d love to be galloping down that beach: free and young and blissful. Amazing.
What is on your set list right now?
It is very diverse. Swing bands like Glenn Miller’s, alternative rock is represented by the Violent Femmes, then a bit of the Zac Brown Band with classic rock thrown in.
The last series you binged-watched. Reign, the story of Mary Queen of Scots.
Favorite place to have lunch in Aiken.
It’s All Good. I am so glad Teddy [Milner] came out of retirement.
As a rider, what fitness routine works best for you?
There are two things that I can’t live without when it comes to exercise. One is my Home Horse Balancer. It is a funny looking device that has a hard rubber ball on the bottom and you sit on a wooden saddle and find your balance points. It allows me to work on my core without straining my back. The second is my Pilates class.
You are planning a small dinner party and inviting only four people. Who would they be and why?
My mom, who passed in 1992 after fighting emphysema for seven years. I would love to have known her after I “grew up” and hear what her life story was and learn more about her. Theodore Roosevelt, because what he did for our country was fascinating. Xenophon, to learn more about his horsemanship, and Mother Theresa to be in the presence of her pure overwhelming kindness. And Oprah! (My table seats six, so why not use all the chairs?)
You can take two people on a trail ride in Hitchcock Woods. Who they be?
My friend Nancy Erdman from Texas, who would love it, and Jimmy Fallon. I know he doesn’t love to ride, but he would be hysterical. And I didn’t have room at my dinner table to invite him.
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1000 Kilometers Across the Mongolian Steppe Riding the Mongol Derby By Taggert VinZant
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never imagined my first trip out of the country would be to the wilds of Mongolia. Stepping off the plane at Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, I swing my backpack over my shoulder and toss on my riding helmet so I don’t have to carry it while searching for a taxi. I’m here because I signed up for the Mongol Derby, the world’s longest horse race, covering 1000 kilometers – that’s 630 miles for us American folk – of Mongolian steppe. This adventure started when I came across the trailer for a documentary called All the Wild Horses that detailed a past Mongol Derby. From that moment I was hooked. I did my homework. The race is based on Chinggis Khaan’s pony express, a vast horse messenger system. (We have known this mighty ruler as Ghengis Khan.) We would be riding through 29 relay stations over the course of the derby, swapping horses every 40 kilometers or so. The horses we would ride are semi-feral, meaning that other than some light herding before the race, they’ve been mostly not been handled by humans. There’s no marked course. You navigate by a handheld GPS and paper maps. As if that doesn’t make it hard enough, you’re limited to five kilos (11 pounds) of equipment, which basically means a Leatherman tool, a sleeping bag, and a pair of spare undies – don’t forget those. I found the Mongol Derby website and sent in my application, without thinking I had a chance to make the cut: from 2,200 applicants, they would accept just 44 riders. Within a week, I received a call from a woman named Stevie to conduct my rider interview. I told her my story: I’ve been riding as long as I could walk, grew up in the Alabama dirt, and have a penchant for risky decision-making – that’s apparently an admirable trait in derby riders. And I was in. My first day in Ulaanbaatar is about getting my bearings and organizing my equipment. The mixture of English, Mongolian, and Russian signage make it very clear that I am not in Aiken any more. I meet up with a few of my fellow riders; people from all walks of life. Netherlanders, Brits, Aussies, Kiwis, and South Africans to indicate a few countries that sent riders. We are quickly processed through orientation and loaded onto a bus for an eight hour trip across the countryside to where we arrive at start camp, placed just downhill of the
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famous horse memorial monument in the city of Arvaikheer in central Mongolia. I spend the next day seeing my tack for the first time, a Franco C endurance saddle. It’s a little small for my liking, but being one of the smaller riders, I know better than to complain. The bridle is made of goat leather and has western rope reins attached to a thin snaffle. There is also a long shank of leather attached to the bridle that’s called a “goat lead.” This would be my lead rope, whip, and rabid dog deterrent all in one. We learn how to use our hobbles (for tying the horses at night), some basic Mongolian courtesies and horsemanship, and we have an extensive briefing on the medical concerns we need to be wary of over the derby. By the end of the day I’m exhausted, and in retrospect, a little too eager for the vodka ceremony and party that precede the race. The head herder invites each of the 45 riders up to the front of our mess tent to give a toast with a shot of vodka. The first 20 are great – it all gets a little foggy after that. Nobody told me the audience wasn’t supposed to toast with all of them. Oops. The day of the race start, it’s pouring rain. I’m still hungover from two nights before at the vodka ceremony. There’s some superstition surrounding the race that if you come off the start line hungover, you will finish. I’m unintentionally doing my part to keep that rumor going. As soon as the flag is waved, 44 riders bolt off the start line, storming across the steppe and my pony isn’t taking whoa for an answer. My plan to stay in the back and be smart quickly dissolves as we rocket to the front of the group. I have a general idea of where we are going, but had made the rookie mistake of keeping my GPS in my backpack and there is no way I can reach it safely while racing across the minefield of marmot holes and leaping over the dry creek beds on this part of the track. I signal back to the riders behind me that I haven’t the slightest clue where I am going and thankfully I think they get the hint — there’s a lot of blind following in the early legs, and I want to make sure they do not try that with me. So once some of the other riders check their GPS – which is not in their backpack (smart) – they set a vector and I try to follow… while in front of them. Have you ever tried to follow someone who is behind you? Not easy. As we make our way off the grassy steppe up into the mountain pass of the first leg, my pony calms down and becomes somewhat rideable. We make quick work of the first leg, a little too quick actually, as the random bolting kept my mount’s heart rate a little too high and even after walking the last kilometer in we enter the horse station at 100 beats per minute. The rules of the vet check are that you have 30 minutes for your horse’s heart rate to get under 56 bpm, and they have to trot up sound. Coming into the race this sounds easy, but you quickly find out that luck plays a much bigger factor than anticipated. A rogue marmot hole is all it takes to come in with a fat leg and win yourself a 2-hour penalty.
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Coming out of Station 1, I get my first slow horse. Slow horses are the bane of the Mongol Derby and my group soon rides off without me, as is often necessary to maintain your progress. Now it’s just me, my pony and the steppe. If there was ever an edge of the world, I feel like Mongolia is it. In the sea of grass you can look in all directions and see no signs of humanity. The first time I was alone on the steppe, the stillness gripped me with a sense of restlessness. A deep instinctual panic to find a person, or to hit the SOS button on my GPS tracker, anything to not be alone in a foreign country on a feral horse with no end in sight. But, as with most of my experiences in the derby, I had to swallow my uncertainties and push onward. That first day with a slow horse took a lot out of me. That would be my slowest leg of the entire derby and I did it in the pouring rain as I rode over a long mountain pass. The biting winds whipped across the plain with nothing to break up their chills as they cut right through my soaking wet rain shell. I made it into Station 2 with the beginnings of hypothermia and didn’t end up making a third station on day one. I remember hanging up all my wet clothes over the wood stove in the rider ger (a kind of yurt) and bundling up in my sleeping bag trying to
get warm. I went to sleep that night unsure if I would continue in the morning, a feeling that would follow me through the derby. Every night wanting to quit, and every morning downing a horse’s dose of Ibuprofen before getting on and doing it again. Over the next nine days of riding I’d be bucked off and dragged, ponied into a station with heat exhaustion, stuck in a bog, lose my wool shirt, rub through my half chaps which made my legs start bleeding, eat enough boiled goat for the rest of my life, and have more near-misses with making it to the bathroom than I care to admit (don’t trust the water). For 10 days, I rode across 1000 kilometers of bogs, swamps, mountains, rivers, and steppe. In between the moments of extreme pain, exhaustion, freezing rains and sweltering heat, were graced with the awe-inspiring landscape and majestic wilderness of the untamed edge of the world. I told myself I was ready for it to be over every day of the derby, but when we were riding the bus back from the finish camp to Ulaanbaatar, I looked out the window to watch wild horses galloping across the horizon, and the only thing I wanted was another 40 kilometers with a wild pony before returning to reality.
Taggert VinZant lives in Aiken and is the owner of Bold Horse Media.
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National Youth Tournament Seri
ies Final 2019 at New Bridge Polo
Photography by Pam Gleason
Aiken Area Calendar of Events
OCTOBER
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2-6
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2-6 2-13 4-6
4-20 5 5 5 5 5-6 8-13 8-13
Schooling HJ Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com Elite Show Jumping (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Vic Russell, 678.858.7192, willspark. com Tryon Fall HJ III. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com USPA Governors Cup 6 Goal. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken. Tiger Kneece, 803.646.3301, tigerkneece@bellsouth.net, aikenpolo.org Chat Hills Hunter Jumper Show. Chattahoochee Hills Eventing - Hosted at the Bouckaert Farm, 9445 Browns Lake Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA. 770.892.2117, info@ chatthillseventing.com, Chatthillseventing.com USPA Copper Cup Tournament. New Bridge Polo Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. Haley Bryan, 803.215.3577, HBryan2485@aol.com, newbridgepolo.com Young Horse Show. Aiken Horse Park, 931 Powderhouse Rd SE, Aiken. 803.226.0121, aikenhorsepark.org The Vista Schooling Horse Trials. The Vista Schooling and Event Center, 859 Old Tory Trail, Aiken. 803.262.5263, schoolthevista. com 73rd Annual Block House Races. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com Lowcountry Hunt Fall Hunter Pace. $55pp. Longfield Stables at Palmetto Bluff, Blufton, SC. thelowcountryhunt.com PSJ Oktoberfest. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon, NC. 828.859.9021, horseshow@ fence.org, psjshows.com Aiken Women’s Polo Tournament. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken. Tiger Kneece, 803.646.3301, tigerkneece@bellsouth.net, aikenpolo.org Tryon Fall HJ IV. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com
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11-20 11-26 12
12-13 12-13 12-13 12-13 13
Schooling Dressage Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm. com USPA Constitutional Cup 6 Goal. Wagener Polo Club, Aiken. Billy Raab, 561.719.3318, wagenerpolo.com USPA President’s Cup 8 Goal. New Bridge Polo Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. Haley Bryan, 803.215.3577, HBryan2485@ aol.com, newbridgepolo.com Sorting (RSNC). BSC Arena, 3976 Highway 24 South, Waynesboro, GA. Cliff Chancey, 706.840.3971. rsnc.us Great American Insurance Group/USDF Region 3 Championship and Atlanta National Fall Dressage. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com USPA Officers Cup 6 Goal. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken. Tiger Kneece, 803.646.3301, tigerkneece@bellsouth.net, aikenpolo.org Regional President’s Cup Tournament. New Bridge Polo Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. Haley Bryan, 803.215.3577, HBryan2485@aol.com, newbridgepolo.com Chat Hills Schooling Show. Chattahoochee Hills Eventing - Hosted at the Bouckaert Farm, 9445 Browns Lake Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA. 770.892.2117, info@ chatthillseventing.com, Chatthillseventing.com WHES Horse Trials. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark.com PSJ Southeast Regional Championship. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com Elite Show Jumping (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Vic Russell, 678.858.7192, willspark. com Pleasure Driving Show. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon, NC. Ariel Holt: asdragongirl@ yahoo.com. fence.org Paradise Farm USEA/USEF Horse Trials. Paradise Farm, 4069 Wagener Rd, Aiken. Lellie Ward, 803.640.4918, paradisefarmaiken.com
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13-14 Lucinda Green Clinic. Full Gallop Farm, 3828 Wagener Rd, Aiken. Lara Anderson: 803. 215.6590, fullgallopfarm@yahoo. com. fullgallopfarm.com 15-20 Tryon Fall HJ V. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com 18-20 Four Beats For Pleasure. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com 19 Eventing Academy Schooling Day. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com 19 Schooling CT Show. Poplar Place Farm, 8191 Us Highway 27, Hamilton, GA. 706.681.8748, poplarplacefarm.com 19 Backstretch Experience: Behind the Scenes at the Aiken Training Track. $30pp. Meet at the Rye Patch parking lot, 100 Berrie Road, at 8:45 am. 803.643.212, 803.642.7631, halloffame@ cityofaikensc.gov, aikenracinghalloffame.com/Backstretch_ Experience.html 19-20 H. J. Fox Halloween Classics I & II. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com 19-20 Brownwood Farm (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Roger Brown, 770.312.4473, willspark. com 19-20 Tryon Hounds Horse Trials. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon, NC. 828.859.9021, horseshow@fence.org, fence.org 20 Eventing Academy Schooling Horse Trials. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm. com, stableviewfarm.com 22-26 Tryon Fall HJ VI. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com 24-Nov.3 USPA Players Cup 4 Goal. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken. Tiger Kneece, 803.646.3301, tigerkneece@bellsouth.net, aikenpolo.org 25-26 SC Walking Horse Championship. T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena, 1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC. Robert Obermiller: 828.674.1758, clemson.edu/extension/garrison 25-27 Lendon Gray’s Dressage4Kids & Atlanta Youth Festival. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com 25-27 SCQHA Spooktacular. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com 25-Nov.3 USPA Bronze Trophy Tournament. New Bridge Polo Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. Haley Bryan, 803.215.3577, HBryan2485@aol.com, newbridgepolo.com 26 28th Aiken Fall Steeplechase. Aiken Horse Park. 931 Powderhouse Rd SE, Aiken. 803.226.0121, aikenhorsepark.org 26 TallBoots HJ Schooling Day. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark. com 26 Halloween Derby Cross. The Vista Schooling and Event Center, 859 Old Tory Trail, Aiken. 803.262.5263, schoolthevista.com 26 CEC HJ Show. Springdale Stables, 1265 Sanders Creek Road, Camden, SC. Candi Cocks, 803.243.4417. camdenequinecircuit. com 26 Atlanta Youth Dressage Challenge. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com 26-27 Ride Better Clinic. Stono River Stables, Charleston, SC. Laura Quarles: 843 813 5506, paradisefarmaiken.com 26-27 Tallboots HJ Schooling Show. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark. com 26-27 Chat Hills Event. Chattahoochee Hills Eventing - Hosted at the Bouckaert Farm, 9445 Browns Lake Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA. 770.892.2117, info@chatthillseventing.com, Chatthillseventing.com
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26-27 Athens Area Hunter/Jumper Association Fall Classic and 2018 Medal Finals. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark. com 27 PSJ Highfields Just for Fun. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com 27 TallBoots HJ Schooling Show. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark. com 27 BRHJA Classic. Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon, NC. 828.859.9021, horseshow@ fence.org, fence.org 27-Nov.2 2019 NBHA World Championships. Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter, 401 Larry Walker Parkway, Perry, GA. 478.987.3247, gnfa.com 29-Nov.2 National President’s Cup Tournament. New Bridge Polo Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. Haley Bryan, 803.215.3577, HBryan2485@aol.com, newbridgepolo.com 31-Nov.3 Katydid CAI***. Katydid Farm, State Park Road, Windsor. Contact Peggy Dils. 803-295-6785. dilsailken@gmail.com katydidcde.com. 31-Nov.3 Tryon Festival I. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com
NOVEMBER 1-3
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6 7-10 7-10 8-9
The Aiken Horse
PPHC Show. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com Aiken Fall Cup 2 Goal. Aiken Polo Club, Aiken. Tiger Kneece, 803.646.3301, tigerkneece@bellsouth.net, aikenpolo.org Schooling Dressage Test-of-Choice. Full Gallop Farm, 3828 Wagener Road, Aiken. Lara Anderson: 803. 215.6590, fullgallopfarm@yahoo.com. fullgallopfarm.com Belle Meade Opening Hunt. Thomson, GA. 706.595.2525, bellemeadehounds.com PSJ Aiken November Classic. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com Ride Better Clinic. Paradise Farm, 4069 Wagener Rd, Aiken. Lellie Ward, 803.640.4918, paradisefarmaiken.com Horseshow Ventures (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Morgan Taylor, 770.827.0175, willspark.com Foxcroft Farm Fall Classic & Lassiter Equestrian Team Classic. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com NCDCTA Autumn Leaves Championships. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark.com November Recognized HT USEA/USEF Horse Trials. Full Gallop Farm, 3828 Wagener Road, Aiken. Lara Anderson: 803. 215.6590, fullgallopfarm@yahoo.com. fullgallopfarm.com Whiskey Road Foxhounds Opening Meet. Aiken. Betsy Minton (hunt sec.): 803.617.8353, whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com King Show Horses Equestrian Team Presents “The Fall Classic Western Challenge”. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com Schooling HJ Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com Atlanta Fall Classic I. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com Young Horse Show Finals. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon. coth.com WHES November Schooling Days. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark. com
October-November 2019
8-9 8-10 9 9 9-10 9-10 10 10 13 13
14-17 14-17 14-17 15-16 15-17 16 16 16 16
16-17 17 17 21-24 22-23
Clemson Fall Classic Academy Horse Show. T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena, 1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC. Robert Obermiller: 828.674.1758, clemson.edu/extension/garrison Camden Winter Classic. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com Just for Fun Show. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com Fall Hunter Pace. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com Elite Show Jumping (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Vic Russell, 678.858.7192, willspark. com Adequan® WHES Championships & November Horse Trials, CT & D. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford, NC. 910.875.2074, carolinahorsepark.com Augusta Polo Cup. Daniel Field, Augusta. Benefit for the BRCA Foundation. Tickets at Augustapolocupcom. Contact: Susie Kneece: 803-646-3302. Driving Day at the Audubon. Silver Bluff Audubon Center and Sanctuary, 4542 Silver Bluff Road, Jackson, SC. 803.471.0291 Schooling Dressage Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm. com Whiskey Road Foxhounds Hunter Pace. Aiken. Betsy Minton (hunt sec.): 803.617.8353, whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com14-16 Tryon Festival of the Hunt. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon. coth.com Atlanta Fall Classic II. Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, GA. 770.860.4190, georgiahorsepark.com GHJA Finals (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. GHJA.org, willspark.com Tryon Festival 2. Tryon International Event Center, 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC. 828.863.1000, tryon.coth.com Sorting (RSNC). BSC Arena, 3976 Highway 24 South, Waynesboro, GA. Cliff Chancey, 706.840.3971. rsnc.us CEC Finals. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com Lowcountry Hunt Opening Meet. Lowcountry Hunt, Jacksonboro, SC. thelowcountryhunt.com Eventing Academy Schooling Day. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com Schooling CT Show GDCTA Recognized. Poplar Place Farm, 8191 Us Highway 27, Hamilton, GA. 706.681.8748, poplarplacefarm.com Historic Stables Experience at the Aiken Training Track. $25pp. Meet at the Rye Patch parking lot, 100 Berrie Road, at 8:45 am. 803.643.212, 803.642.7631, halloffame@cityofaikensc.gov, aikenracinghalloffame.com/Backstretch_Experience.html PSJ Finals. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com Eventing Academy Schooling Horse Trials. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm. com, stableviewfarm.com Combined Tests/Dressage tests/Jump rounds. Full Gallop Farm, 3828 Wagener Road, Aiken. Lara Anderson: 803. 215.6590, fullgallopfarm@yahoo.com. fullgallopfarm.com Elite Show Jumping (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. Vic Russell, 678.858.7192, willspark. com Easy Bend IPRA Rodeo. T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena, 1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC. Robert Obermiller: 828.674.1758, clemson.edu/extension/garrison
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Thanksgiving Hunter Pace. The Vista Schooling and Event Center, 859 Old Tory Trail, Aiken. 803.262.5263, schoolthevista. com 23 Aiken Barn Hunt Fall Trial. 174 Mossy Tree Lane Aiken . aikenbarnhunt.com. 28 The annual Thanksgiving Day Blessing of the Hounds. Memorial Gate in the Hitchcock Woods, Aiken. 28 Camden Hunt Opening Meet. Woods Residence, 678 Red Fox Rd, Camden, SC. 803.669.1590, camdenhunt.com 28-Dec.1 Pine Top Thanksgiving Horse Trials. Pine Top Farm, 1432 Augusta Highway, Thomson, GA. PineTopEventing@gmail.com, pinetopfarm.com 29-Dec.1 Equus Events Inc. Holiday Premier USEF National Horse Show. Aiken Horse Park, 931 Powderhouse Rd SE, Aiken. 803.226.0121, aikenhorsepark.org 30 Chat Hills Hunter Pace. Chattahoochee Hills Eventing Hosted at the Bouckaert Farm, 9445 Browns Lake Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA. 770.892.2117, info@chatthillseventing.com, Chatthillseventing.com
DECEMBER
Schooling HJ Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com 6-8 SCHJA Finale HJ. South Carolina Equine Park (SCEP), 443 Cleveland School Road, Camden, SC. 803.486.4938, scequinepark.com 7 USEF/USEA Horse Trials at Sporting Days Farm. 3549 Charleston Hwy, Aiken 29801. 803-648-0100. sportingdaysfarm. com. 7 Chat Hills Schooling Show. Chattahoochee Hills Eventing Hosted at the Bouckaert Farm, 9445 Browns Lake Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA. 770.892.2117, info@ chatthillseventing.com, Chatthillseventing.com 7 Trotting ‘Round the Tree Horse Show. T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena, 1101 West Queen Street, Pendleton, SC. Robert Obermiller: 828.674.1758, clemson.edu/extension/garrison 7-8 USEF/USDF “Winter Wonderland” Dressage Show. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@ stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com 7-8 Ride Better Clinic and Horse Show. Paradise Farm, 4069 Wagener Rd, Aiken. Lellie Ward, 803.640.4918, paradisefarmaiken.com 8 XC Schooling at Sporting Days Farm. 3549 Charleston Hwy, Aiken 29801. 803-648-0100. sportingdaysfarm.com. 11-15 Equus Events (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. JP Goddard, 803.643.5698, willspark.com 13 Whiskey Road Fox Hunt Hunter Pace. Contact Besty Minton 803-617-8353; elizabethminton@att.net. 13-14 Sorting (RSNC). BSC Arena, 3976 Highway 24 South, Waynesboro, GA. Cliff Chancey, 706.840.3971. rsnc.us 14 Just for Fun Show. Highfields Event Center, 147 Warehouse Road, Aiken. 803.649.3505, psjshows.com 14 Eventing Academy Schooling Day. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm.com, stableviewfarm.com 14 Christmas Drive. New Bridge Polo and Country Club, 862 New Bridge Road, Aiken. aikendrivingclub.com 15 Schooling HT/Combined Tests/jump rounds. Full Gallop Farm, 3828 Wagener Road, Aiken. Lara Anderson: 803. 215.6590, fullgallopfarm@yahoo.com. fullgallopfarm.com 15 Eventing Academy Schooling Horse Trials. Stable View, LLC 117 Stable Drive, Aiken. 484.356.3173, info@stableviewfarm. com, stableviewfarm.com 18-22 Equus Events (H,J). Wills Park Equestrian Center, 11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA. JP Goddard, 803.643.5698, willspark.com 4
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Directory of Services BARNS,CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING G. L. Williams & Daughter. Serving the CSRA for over 52 years. Specializing in hauling, grading, clearing, property maintenance, and excavation.We provide everything from several types of fill dirt, top soil,compost, mortar sands, crushed asphalt/concrete, to screenings and a variety of rocks.Free Estimates Available (803)6633715 Certified DBE.WOSB. www.glwilliamstrucking.com BLANKET CLEANING & REPAIR Aiken Horse Blanket Couture. Please see our business card ad on page 81. Elisa: 803-640-3211; elisa@aikenhorseblanket.com BOARDING/TURNOUT/TRAINING/SALES Chime Ridge Stables. Stalls available, partial or self care. Fun, friendly, adult atmosphere. Convenient to town, South Aiken 803-5083760. The Stable On The Woods: Elite boarding & training facility and home to trainers Darrell and Melissa Vaughn. With access to Hitchcock Woods, our barn sits on 70 acres and boasts a full size dressage arena with mirrors, show jumping arena and highquality grass pastures making this the ideal place for you and your horse. Training program to meet your needs, whether your discipline is Dressage, Eventing, Hunters, Jumpers or Foxhunting. thestableonthewoods.com 603.785.0435 Vaughn Equestrian: offering training, sales, and boarding. Professionalism is the guiding principle of owners Darrell and Melissa Vaughn in shaping every component of Vaughn Equestrian. Dressage, Jumpers, Eventing & Young Horses. training and sales. vaughnequestrian.com (603)-785-0435 COMPANION ANIMALS, CARE & SERVICES Trinity Farms Terriers: Norfolk Terriers & Russell Terriers. Quality family dogs with proven calmer dispositions. Generations of great temperaments. Health/dispositions guaranteed. Breeder of terriers for 40+ years. Donna Fitzpatrick. 803.648.3137. easyjacks.com & trinityfarmskennel.com & trinitynorfolkterriers.com. EQUINE THERAPY/MASSAGE Mikaela Engert: Holistica PEMF Therapy & Equine Bodywork Certified Practitioner providing equine massage & PEMF Therapy in Aiken & the CSRA. PEMF helps to relieve pain and inflammation, improves performance, range of motion, speed and strength, while providing many other wellness benefits for you, your horse, your dog, or your other favorite four-legged friends! Call/Text: +1.603.748.4325; holisticaEQ@gmail.com; www.holisticaeq.com FEED, SUPPLEMENTS & SUPPLIES Aiken County Farm Supply. 1933 Park Ave., Aiken. 803.649.2987. Aiken Saddlery & Supply. Full service tack & feed store. 1044 E. Pine Log Rd., Aiken. 803.649.6583. aikensaddlery.com HAY Hoss Luva Hay! Exceptional quality Coastal Bermuda. Real fertilizer and lime to Clemson specs, not chicken litter. Never rained on. Square and round bales. Competitively priced. Can deliver statewide. Fully enclosed truck. Satisfaction guaranteed. Jim McClain. 803.247.4803. HOME & FARM SERVICES Be Fly Free. Automatic fly systems for barns and sheds. No unpleasant odor, no synthetic insecticides, no petroleum distillates. Call Carlos: 803-645-0361. beflyfree.com; carlos@beflyfree.com. INSURANCE Betsy Minton, Dietrich Insurance Company, 803. 617. 8353. Providing competitive comprehensive insurance for horses and farms. Excellent professional and personal service always delivered with a smile. betsyminton.com. 800 942 4258
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Hutson-Etherredge Company. Insuring Aiken farms since 1876. Your hometown independent insurance agency can customize your equine property coverage by choosing the best company to fit your needs. We are a full service insurance agency. Call Sandi Vogus for a quote! 803-649-5141 INSTRUCTION/LESSONS Amy McElroy. USDF Gold Medalist and USEF S judge. Instruction and training at all levels. Visit amymcelroy.com or call 803.6404207. Aiken Horsemanship Academy. Your naturally inspired adult learning resource! Offering Clinics, Courses, Starting Young Horses, Evaluations, and Lessons. JulieRobins.com 803-641-4715. B & E Stables. Elite Training and Sales Facility for all levels of horse and rider. Visit classicaldressagetraining.com or call Elaine: 803257-1949. Jodi Hemry Eventing. Three-Star Eventer offering professional training, sales, boarding, instruction, horse shows, located in the heart of Aiken. 803-640-6691 JodiHemryEventing@gmail.com JodiHemryEventing.com The Riding School: Private, semi private or group lessons. Children a specialty. Beginners on up; excellent lesson horses. Unmounted programs available for children; birthday parties and camps. Barn and stall rental also available. Convenient Aiken location close to town. Chan Carman: 803-845-5102. Chan@theridingschoolaiken. com; www.theridingschoolaiken.com. REAL ESTATE/ RENTALS Aiken Fine Homes and Land. Specializing in selling or renting homes, farms, land & barns for short or long term leases. 28 years experience in helping people find the property of their dreams, even if it takes building it! Call Barbara Lawrence, 803-439-0778 for honest & realistic answers to your real estate questions. Aiken Luxury Rentals. Distinctive accommodations for horse & rider in beautiful Aiken. Downtown fully furnished cottages, historic stables. Executive relocation; corporate housing. Short & long term. aikenluxuryrentals.com; info@aikenluxuryrentals.com. 803.648.2804. Carolina Real Estate Company. Fine homes, estates and horse properties in Aiken, South Carolina. Let us welcome you home to AIKEN, Home of Horses, History & Hospitality! carolinahorseproperties.com. (803) 648-8660 Sharer Dale, Meybohm. “Where town meets country.” sharerdale@ gmail.com. 803.522.3648. Suzy Haslup, Meybohm. “Your Aiken Horse Real Estate Specialist.” Buying or selling in the most celebrated equine community in the South. ww.aikenhorserealty.com; 803-215-0153 Tracey Kenworthy Turner, Meybohm. Specializing in marketing & selling Aiken’s horse country properties for 15+ years. southernhorsefarms.com. 803-215-4734. TACK & TACK CLEANING/REPAIR The Saddle Doctor. Saddlery and harness repair. 538 Two Notch Rd. HollyMacSpencer@aol.com. 803.642.5166. YOGA/FITNESS Aiken Yoga: At Aiken Yoga we are passionate about sharing the benefits that regular yoga practice has on one’s physical and mental well-being. We offer Yoga classes, Yoga for Equestrians, Pilates, Barre, Cycle and Functional Fitness -- helping people to keep fit for daily living. Sarah Accord, RN, 116B Pendleton St. SW Aiken. 803-524-8833 or sarah@aikenyoga.com; for schedule go to aikenyoga.com.
The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
Classifieds 7 year old registered QH mare. Grey. 15.1 hands. Super quiet, easy kid-safe. Great in trails. Call for more information. 803-295-8687
Mill Race Farm, Aiken. Warm weather luxury horse retirement, breaking, training, layups. 803-640-1818
8 Year Old Canadian TB Cross Gelding. Solid basics on the flat and schooling well over fences; transitioning to a new career as eventer or hunt horse. Sound and sensible. Nice prospect for amateur or young rider. 803-295-8687
BOARDING/TURNOUT Chime Ridge Stables. Stalls available for DIY, we feed 3x daily, turnout/in. You provide feed, hay, bedding and cleaning. $ 250.00 month. 803-508-3760 please leave message.
HAY Round and Square Bales. Oakwood Farms: 3593 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken SC 29803. $60 per bale round hay bales. $70 per bale round bales kept inside. Square bales at $7.00 per bale. Will deliver for a small fee. Please call 706-830-2600 or 803827-0864. email garymcelmurray@ glmconstruction.net Hoss Luva Hay! Exceptional quality Coastal Bermuda. Real fertilizer and lime to Clemson specs, not chicken litter. Never rained on. Square and round bales. Competitively priced. Can deliver state-wide. Fully enclosed truck. Satisfaction guaranteed. Jim McClain. 803.247.4803.
HELP WANTED Farm Manager Required: Must be familiar with all aspects of horse and farm care, able to lightly service and maintain tractors and farm equipment. Pleasant attitude and ability interact with customers and clients. 30-35 hours per week. Salary and housing provided. Send resume and cover letter by email only to: AikenHorseJobs@gmail.com.
HORSES/PETS & SERVICES Trinity Farms Terriers: Norfolk Terriers & Russell Terriers. Quality family dogs with proven
October-November 2019
calmer dispositions. Generations of great temperaments. Health/ dispositions guaranteed. Breeder of terriers for 40+ years. Donna Fitzpatrick. 803.648.3137. easyjacks. com & trinityfarmskennel.com & trinitynorfolkterriers.com.
LESSONS The Riding School: Private, semi private or group lessons Children a specialty. Beginners on up; excellent lesson horses. Unmounted programs available for children; birthday parties and camps. Barn and stall rental also available. Convenient Aiken location close to town. Chan Carman: 803-845-5102. Chan@ theridingschoolaiken.com;. theridingschoolaiken.com.
REAL ESTATE & RENTALS Aiken Luxury Rentals. Distinctive accommodations for horse & rider in beautiful Aiken. Downtown fully furnished cottages, historic stables. Executive relocation; corporate housing. Short & long term. aikenluxuryrentals.com; info@aikenluxuryrentals.com. 803.648.2804. Cozy, cute carriage house for rent on Hitchcock Woods on iconic equestrian estate. 1BR/1BA. Sleeps 4. $125/night. European style barn with soaring ceilings. 3 stalls available (self care) $20/night per horse. 5 min to downtown Aiken and close to all horse venues. Perfect for female solo travelers. Monthly discounts avail. www.StayAiken.com
4-year-old TB Mare 16 hands Athletic. Call for more info: 239-989-2011
Room Rental: Reduced rent at private small horse farm in exchange for helping with chores. Located on route 302 in Aiken South Carolina 9 miles from downtown. Please call 803-640-2339 or email Ffif@aol.com could be a seasonal or yearly. Must be knowledgeable about horses and dogs; must have references
SHAVINGS Shaving Saver: Delivering you bulk shavings the economical & convenient way! Large, durable bags (950 lbs.) of pine shavings delivered to your stable. Reusable, eco-friendly bags make storage neat and simple;
bulk pricing makes your bedding affordable. Quality blended easy sift & large flake shavings that your horse will love! Call or text Claudia White 410-303-4617 or email scshavingsaver@gmail.com
TACK & APPAREL Pikeur Dressage Shadbelly. Ladies Size 10 (Eu 38) Black. Only worn twice for silver medal, then injury. New condition, have labels, asking $450.00. Also otto schumacker double bridle w/bits, short pikeur jacket. 803-649-4063
Half Andalusian/Paint, registered Half Andalusian and America Paint, beautiful 13 y/0, 15.2, great dressage potential. $3,500. Call Bill Ross, 803-3152731. Lexington , SC
Three bedroom, 2 full bath ranch house for rent. 3 acres, 2 stalls, 2 paddocks on Silver Bluff Rd. Short term & furnished available. $2500 monthly, Deposit required. 803-998-9171
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Business Cards
Absorbs up to 350% its weight – much more than other products Replace less bedding – on average add just ½ bag a week per stall Stall cleaning is faster and odor free, with less waste Easy to handle/stack 40 lb., recyclable paper bags Dust-free – ideal for horses with respiratory and skin allergies Excellent as fertilizer, no need to compost, plus adds nitrogen to soil 484-390-1453
Sole Distributors in Aiken area
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aikenflaxbedding@gmail.com www.flaxfarm.ca
The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
Monetta Farrier Specialties
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS
GREAT SERVICE AND BROAD RANGE OF QUALITY FARRIER SUPPLIES
Aiken, SC
803.685.5101
Columbus, NC
828.894.0280
www.monettafarrier.com
MyMalvernBank.com Serving Aiken year round
EAST COAST EQUINE DENTISTRY Lou Heffner
4XDOLW\ ZRUN DW DQ 4XDOLW\ ZRUN DW DQ DIIRUGDEOH SULFH
20+ years experience
803.649.9343 home 610.960.2405 for immediate response
October-November 2019
The Aiken Horse
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MORTALITY FARM LIABILITY CARE/CUSTODY/CONTROL SHAWNA DIETRICH
800-942-4258
Louisville, KY
â&#x20AC;¢
Aiken, SC
BETSY MINTON
803-617-8353
www.dietrich-insurance.com
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The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
October-November 2019
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Index of Advertisers Advertiser
Section
Page
Advertiser
Section
Page
Advertiser
Section
Page
Paradise Farm
2
37
Aiken County Farm Supply
1
30
Fencing Solutions
1
9
Aiken Fine Homes and Land
1
20
FITS Equestrian
2
41
Patty Merli Saddles
2
43
Aiken Horse Park Foundation
1
5
FOTAS Aiken
3
58
Pedego
1
29
Aiken Horsemanship Academy
2
54
G L Williams and Daughter
2
54
Polysols/GGT Footing
1
31
Aiken Luxury Rentals
1
28
Gary Knoll Photography
3
72
Progressive Show Jumping, Inc
2
42
Aiken Polo Club
2
35
Gravatt Cup
2
41
Rainbow Plant Food
2
53
Aiken Saddlery, Inc.
2
46
Harrison K-9 Security Service
2
55
Retired Racehorse Project
3
83
Albrecht SPCA
2
36
Home for Good Dogs
1
22
Sharer Dale
3
84
Auto Tech
1
26
Hunter Paces
1
27
Solo Vino
1
18
Back in Balance
1
28
Jill Diaz Polo
3
69
South Carolina Equine Park
2
47
Banks Hall
1
19
Keller Williams/ Stinson
1
4
Southern Equine Service
1
10
Barnware
2
41
L & N Equestrian
2
54
Sporting Days Farm
2
37
Be Fly Free
2
53
Lightning Protection Systems
1
27
Stable View Farm, LLC
2
47
Brenda’s Angels
1
18
Lisa Seger Insurance
2
54
Sweet PDZ (PDZ Co. LLC)
2
54
Carolina Real Estate Company
1
12
Low Country Hunt
1
28
The Aiken Horse
3
59
Carolina Real Estate Company
1
13
MacQueen Equine Law
1
28
The Kneaded Edge
1
27
Clint Bertalan Farms LLC
1
31
Marrinson Stables
2
54
The Kneaded Edge
2
40
DFG Stables
2
43
Meybohm RE (Sullivan/Turner)
1
21
The Tack Room
1
27
Earthmuffin Spa
1
20
Meybohm RE Dale
1
15
The Willcox
1
18
Epona
1
28
Meybohm RE Haslup
1
3
Three Runs Plantation
1
32
Equine Divine
1
29
Meybohm RE Vaillancourt
1
2
Tod’s Hill/ReMax
2
56
Equine Rescue of Aiken
2
34
New Bridge Polo Club
1
14
Warneke Cleaners
2
37
Estrella Equine
2
43
Oak Manor Saddlery
2
37
Advertising in The Aiken Horse
DIRECTORY LISTING ADS: $25 per issue CLASSIFIED ADS are $25 for the first 30 words & 40 cents for every word or $90 for the year (6 issues.) thereafter. BUSINESS CARDS: $65 per issue or $280 for the year (6 issues.) PHOTO CLASSIFIEDS for horses: $35; Limit 30 words & one picture DISPLAY ADS are available in a range of PHOTO CLASSIFIEDS for real estate, etc. sizes. For a detailed rate sheet and $45; Limit 60 words & one picture. publication schedule, visit our website: BOXED CLASSIFIEDS: add $5 to your total TheAikenHorse.com
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MAILING ADDRESS: The Aiken Horse, P.O. Box 332, Montmorenci, SC 29839 EMAIL: theAikenHorse@gmail.com We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express.
Advertise in the December/January issue! Deadline November 15 2019 Publication date: December 3, 2019
Pay online: TheAikenHorse.com or call us: 803.643.9960
The Aiken Horse
October-November 2019
October-November 2019
The Aiken Horse
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OFFICE: (803) 761-0678
CELL: (803) 522-3648
SHARERDALE@GMAIL.COM
10 Plum Branch Rd. Edgefield, SC 29824 MLS #107772 OFFERED AT $3,250,000 4 BEDROOMS 4 FULL 2 HALF BATHROOMS 7,500 SQUARE FEET 295 ACRES
Southern charm meets modern comfort in scenic Edgefield. This 7500Â sq.ft. Architectural Digestworthy masterpiece was built in 2017 by renowned craftsman Lee Graybeal. As you enter the gates, nearly 300 lush acres beckon through the pecan groves and the gracious drive winds through the property. Glide up and down the grand staircase or hail the elevator to any floor. Cozy up by the stone fireplace, or gather 'round in the chef's kitchen. Step outside where you'll find a huge barn, providing additional storage or it could be converted for horses. Endless possibility as a recreational hunting property, an equestrian facility or family retreat. Easy access to Augusta, North Augusta & Aiken!