2023 AHT's Saddle Seat Brochure

IXL Noble Express x Bonita Afire | Proudly bred & owned by Maroon Fire Arabians www.AfireBeyV.com | For breeding information or progeny available contact Shea Stables, 810-329-6392 or Ashton Kiesner, 865-556-0412

by MARY KIRKMAN

It’s hard to describe Gail and Dave Liniger’s Maroon Fire breeding program, guided by Marty and Tim Shea, without writing what sounds like overthe-top hype. But the truth is that their combination of experience, history andskill has produced a dynasty in the English division. Its latest representative is the 10-year-old stallion Inception.

A son of IXL Noble Express, from the Afire Bey V daughter Bonita Afire, he sports a pedigree that is impeccable for the job. Show record? Four consecutive national championships without attracting anything less than a first place vote: the 2017 AEPA $100,000 Saddle Seat Futurity, followed by U.S. National Championships in English Pleasure Junior Horse (2018) and Park (2019 and 2020), showing with Joel Kiesner.

At the 2022 U.S. Nationals, the Inception son Bourbon Street SHF, showing with Andy Dearing, earned reserve in the English Pleasure Futurity—the same class in which In Quest, accompanied by Shan Wilson, was named 2022 U.S. National Top Ten. (One judge selected Bourbon Street as the champion, with In Quest reserve.)

And at Scottsdale this year, American Ambition said “Happy Birthday” to his Stachowski West trainer Jonathan Ramsay by winning the Half-Arabian Junior English Pleasure Championship.

Remarkably, Inception’s most valuable trait may lie beyond his get’s obvious ability: it’s his temperament, his intelligence and willingness to learn, and he’s passing it along. “He won four unanimous national championships for a reason,” Joel Kiesner notes, “and that’s because he trained well; you can’t do that and not train well. When a horse or his offspring wins over and over, it doesn’t just speak to their physical makeup; it generally means that they have a real brain and that they like their work. That is every bit as valuable as the physical makeup of the horse.”

“We have several Inception babies, but only one under saddle,” Vicki Humphrey says of Bourbon Street SHF. “This talented colt, owned by Tom and Liz Moore and trained by Andy Dearing, is an absolute delight to have in the barn, and has been since day one. Andy says, ‘You know all the things you want in an English horse? He has them all!’ He has great hocks, a great amateur attitude, and is a very forward horse, willing to go to work every day—very ambitious and happy to perform. We’re looking forward to starting the next ones.”

The temperament is bred-in from two principal sources. It’s characteristic of the Afire Bey V line, and in Inception’s case, there is the added influence of Barbary, who was famous not only for his cooperative, interactive personality, but also his longevity.

The Inceptions can be misleading at first, though, Tim Shea cautions. “They’re calm and quiet as they learn,” he says. “They learn to be bold, to have that show ring ‘sting’ as they mature. They’re so accepting of training that they get more impressive as they go on. I worked Nobility and Noble Express before sending them on [to Gene LaCroix and Joel Kiesner], and those horses were hot and oversensitive. Inception is a departure from that. He’s his own thing, but he kept all the talent; he’s very strong behind, but he flexes his hocks. They were strong behind, but they didn’t flex as much as he did. He has that old-time flexion in the hocks, and he’s siring it.”

Tim also has high praise for Inception as a sire of Half-Arabians. “He’s the best we’ve ever had for that,” he says. “He keeps the Saddlebred look in topline, neck, movement and overall appearance, which is good, but leaves the Arabian type, especially through the head and attitude. We’ve been successful using several good stallions on our mares for Half-Arabians, but these Inceptions are a whole other level.”

This year, the next chapter of Inception’s story will begin to unfold. The headliners of the past year will all be back, and there will be new faces too. A pair of Half-Arabians the Sheas bred, In Deed SS (with Josh Shino) and Inspired SS (with Joel), are targeting the futurities, and there will be several more.

“Inception is a thoroughly good animal—and an imposing figure,” Joel reflects, “He’s a real horse.”

“Inception is a thoroughly good animal—and an imposing figure ...

a real horse.”

Bourbon Street SHF (Inception x Merry Magnifire)

2022 U.S. National Reserve Champion English Pleasure Futurity

Owned by Tom and Liz Moore. Trained by Andy Dearing

~ Joel Kiesner

He’s

American Ambition (Inception x Sweet ‘N Nutty)

2023 Scottsdale Champion H/A English Pleasure Jr. Horse

Owned by North By Northwest. Trained by Jonathan Ramsay

SF Specs Shocwave

Afire Bey V Spectra PR

Matoi

Huckleberry Bey Autmun Fire Promotion

Sedgia

Zodiac Matador

Toi Ellenai

Mz Kitty

Catt

JA Magnificat

DG Serinett

Proudly owned by Peter & Lori Conway

MARK YOUR CALENDARS...

MARCH 23, 2024

This sale will feature horses bred by Hagale Family Arabians and/or horses sired by their stallions. Limited outside consignments will also be available. Check out these samples of some of our youngsters that may be offered......

2023 PROSPECTS

PB Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x Best Of My Love

PB Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x Antebella Ames

PB Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x Ladie In Redd

HA Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x A Pleasant Surprize

HA Filly | SF Aftershoc+ x A Pleasant Surprize

HA Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x West Hollywood Excellence

HA Filly | Noble Braveheart x CSP Adriana

HA Filly | SF Aftershoc+ x You’re Golden

HA Colt | SF Destination Victry+ x A Pleasant Surprize

HA Colt | Undulata’s Nutcracker x CSP Adriana

HA Filly | SF Destination Victry+ x Ms. Bette Midler

HA TBD | HA Toskcan Sun+ x A Pleasant Surprize

PB TBD | HA Toskcan Sun+ x CSP Party Doll

PB TBD | ROL Divine Style+/ x Marion Ames

HA Colt | SF Destination Victry+ x West Hollywood Excellence

2022 PROSPECTS

PB Gelding | SF Aftershoc+ x SD Fheiry Tale

PB Colt | SF Aftershoc+ x Glitterotti BFV

PB Colt | Vegaz x LA Pistola

PB Filly | Inception x Glitterotti BFV

PB Colt | KW Micah x CSP Caribbean Afire

PB Filly | SF Aftershoc+ x Lady Stardust TA

PB Filly | Inception x Social Light

HA Filly | Fire And Goldd x El Baile

PB Filly | Vegaz x Templeton Rye

PB Filly | HA Toskcan Sun+ x Marion Ames

PB Filly | CSP Rolling Stone x Tainted Luv

PB Filly | SF Aftershoc+ x CSP Caribbean Afire

DMW Diamonds Nthe Sun | HA Toskcan Sun x DM Diamond Toi | PB Filly

HFA Party Time | SF Aftershoc+ x CSP Party Doll | PB Colt

2021 PROSPECTS

Dom Perrignon TA | SF Aftershoc+ x Ms. Bette Midler | HA Gelding

HFA Malachi | KW Micah x A Pleasant Surprize | HA Gelding Hot Shoc | SF Aftershoc+ x Phun Night | HA Gelding

Wonder Woman TA | SF Aftershoc+ x Bellatrix PF | PB Filly

For sale inquiries or more information contact Jen Wilson 602.616.6672

www.HagaleFamilyArabians.com

Follow @hagalefamilyarabians

ferrara photo

U.S. NATIONAL ENGLISH PLEASURE CHAMPION OPEN WITH JOEL KIESNER AAOTR 55 & OVER WITH DIANE FRANKLIN

Mamage x KW Sapphire, by Baske Afire Proudly owned by Franklin Farm, LLC

2022 U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION AEPA $100,000 SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY 2021 U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPION ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY

| Proudly bred

Prosuasion x Heirs Noble Love

& owned by Karlton & Mary Ann Jackson For select breeding opportunities with Prosuaded by Love, contact Ashton Kiesner 865-556-0412.

Huckleberry Bey

Afire Bey V

Afires Heir

Heirs Noble Love

Strawberry Banks Farm

has been training and breeding excellence in the English divisions since 1976.

StrawberryBanksFarm.com

info@strawberrybanksfarm.com

Barbara Chur | Owner

Brian Murch | Trainer 716.983.3099

Lance Lewis | Asst. Trainer 716.652.9346

Arabian Horse Times 2022 National Saddle Seat Leaders

Includes U.S., Mid Summer, Youth and Canada’s National English Champion and Reserve wins (AEPA, English Pleasure, Country English, and Park Horse classes). Open and amateur/junior classes only

Based off AHA & Canada's National Championship Supplied Results at end of show

OVERALL LEADING ARABIAN & HALF-ARABIAN WINNERS

by number of wins

Owner

1. Daniels Diva 4 championships Amanda Stannard

2. Shocked N Bewildered 2 championships, 2 reserves Lisa Blackstone

3. Rizing Stock BF 3 championships Boisvert Farms LLC

4. I Love Luci 2 championships, 1 reserve Hagale Family Arabians LLC

Nobelistic CRF 2 championships, 1 reserve Katherine Nutter

Nutcracker King MA 2 championships, 1 reserve Katherine Bartlett Breneman/Channing Turner

Pumped Up Kix 2 championships, 1 reserve Bryce Mollard

5. Aftershocs Anzapollo 1 championship, 2 reserves White Rose Arabians LLC

Chmn Ofthe Board NNW 1 championship, 2 reserves Wanda Leubner

Maximilano 1 championship, 2 reserves Bianca Massman

by number of wins

LEADING ARABIAN WINNERS

Owner

1. Daniels Diva 4 championships Amanda Stannard

2. Nobelistic CRF 2 championships, 1 reserve Katherine Nutter

3. Aftershocs Anzapollo 1 championship, 2 reserves White Rose Arabians LLC

Maximilano 1 championship, 2 reserves Bianca Massman

4. CP Manifesto 2 championships

Drops Of Jupiter VH 2 championships

Cathy or Sophie Yih

Vicki Humphrey

KW Micah 2 championships Franklin Farm LLC

Supreme Commander SMP 2 championships

Wild Hearts CA 2 championships

Dean & Tracy Dowson

Lauren Lefton

5. HS Shes A Shocker 1 championship, 1 reserve Robert & Rebecca Nash

OH Dancing On Heir 1 championship, 1 reserve Lindsay O’Reilly French

OH Heir Brushed 1 championship, 1 reserve Shamrock Farms LLC

Rizing Heir BF 1 championship, 1 reserve Taryn Lundquist

SD Prince William 1 championship, 1 reserve Ilka Ferguson

by number of wins

LEADING HALF-ARABIAN WINNERS

Owner

1. Shocked N Bewildered 2 championships, 2 reserves Lisa Blackstone

2. Rizing Stock BF 3 championships

Boisvert Farms LLC

3. I Love Luci 2 championships, 1 reserve Hagale Family Arabians LLC

Nutcracker King MA 2 championships, 1 reserve Katherine Bartlett Breneman/Channing Turner

Pumped Up Kix 2 championships, 1 reserve Bryce Mollard

4. Chmn Ofthe Board NNW 1 championship, 2 reserves Wanda Leubner

5. Tap Out 3 reserves

6. EMR On Broadway 2 championships

Extremely Fortunut 2 championships

Halsteads Romeo 2 championships

Hinged In Heaven 2 championships

Zodiac Amore 2 championships

On The Bit, Inc.

Sara Embury

Lisa Jo White

Brittany McKenzie

Lily or Stephanie Sandell

Tiffany Smith-Henson

OVERALL LEADING ARABIAN SIRES

LEADING OPEN TRAINERS (Top Ten included)

2022 National Saddle Seat Leaders, continued...

Saddle

TRAINERS•OWNERS•BREEDERS • AMATEURS

“There is nothing more stunning than a saddle seat horse locked in frame, under itself, and rolling its legs through each stride.”

—Amanda Stannard

Lane Naymola & Tom Theisen

LANE EQUINE

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

1. Structure: it helps when conformation allows the horse to more easily perform his/her discipline.

2. Attitude: again, it helps, when a horse wants to learn and excel. Gene LaCroix once said, “that’ll be a great one if he wants to be.”

3. Suspension: generally, a horse with suspension hits the ground softly and has that extra spring in their step that is appealing. It’s not how high they trot, but how they trot high.

4. Quality: it’s that wow factor that draws attention to an individual.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it? All gaits should be true and easy to determine: a four-beat walk, two-beat trot, and a three-beat canter. At the trot specifically, it should be a clear on two, one two. If it isn’t, and there’s a skip in the stride, it is not cadenced and playing catch up.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Slow down, keep your cadence, and go for the horse who is willingly and effortlessly doing his job.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

It’s such an excellent program that gives the 4-year-olds a job in Tulsa! The prize money and general excitement of the class garners support from otherwise hesitant breeders.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

HA Toskcan Sun+ because his get are consistently easy to train and ooze quality, and SA Gisele. She is one of the most beautiful saddle seat mares of all time and seems to consistently produce top performance offspring.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? Again, it’s about slowing down and regaining balance. A dynamic performance is great, but oftentimes we override the second we hit the gate. It’s thrilling to watch a horse put on a brilliant yet effortless show, and you’ll have a happy and sound horse!

Amanda Stannard

TOMANEK FARMS

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Quality, brain, talent, and aesthetics.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it? I love the look of a bridled saddle seat horse. There is nothing more stunning than a saddle seat horse locked in frame, under itself, and rolling its legs through each stride.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Making sure a country English pleasure is not an English horse and English is not Park. I think placing horses that are moving in that type of motion takes away from the talent in that division.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding? As a Canadian, I can take it or leave it unless a program came to Canada’s Nationals.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

My mare because she is great minded, easy to train, and shows like her life depends on it, and Barcelona BF. I’ve loved his motion and his presence from the first time I saw him.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? Cost of youngsters and prospects. It takes away from people choosing to stay in the discipline.

Brooke Landon

LANDON EQUESTRIAN LLC

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

A great mindset, natural talent, trainability, and a good background like his/her parents succeeding in the show ring or in the breeding barn.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadenced motion consists of balanced and rhythmic strides, with no one-leggedness and fluid movement. It includes the hind leg coming up to drive the front end, which allows the horse to push forward in the show ring to show at their best potential. The neck should be held high and set back on the shoulder, which allows the horse to “lift” themselves up so that they look like they’re moving forward in an upwards frame. If I had to choose a horse who exemplifies this the most, in all honesty, I must choose my park horse mare Layla RTA. I had the ride of my life on her at Region 7 most recently, being our first park class together ever, and she showed me how a true English/park horse performs.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Definitely not holding grudges against exhibitors that then go on to affect their placing even if they had an excellent, 1st place quality ride, and making sure that judges truly know what an English horse looks like and being able to select these horses in a large class.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

The AEPA class allows breeders to put their horses in an arena that others can watch to see young open prospects perform. It encourages others to breed to hopefully win it, not only because it provides a big money prize, but the class itself puts the finest young prospects on display for all to see—products of top breeding programs. It should be kept at the nationals forever because of its impact on the breeding side of our industry.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Mamage and Cordoba BF. Mamage is the sire of many superstars including KW Micah, Malachi, and Isaiah, and he doesn’t have any lines to Huck. Cordoba is the dam of the incredible show horse and sire Barcelona BF. She also doesn’t have any Huck is her, but horses like Congac and Wisdom that make her stand out to me a lot more than most mares. The Matador and Wisdom would cross beautifully, I think. Disappointingly, both horses have gone to heaven in the last couple of years, but I think that the foal resulting from those two horses would’ve been something to change the industry.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

Less extreme shoeing; it doesn’t let the horse show their natural talent off, and in a way puts a “mask” on the horse which makes them look like someone they’re not. It would also be better for shoeing to be decreased a lot so that our partners can be more and live their lives as horses and not cooped up in stalls 24/7, only getting out when it’s time to work.

David Bandy

WILOMA PLANTATION

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

I could start with all the typical things most people would say: shape of neck, laid back shoulder, etc. I have learned over time that once you achieve these physical characteristics, there are two things that are essential to a great horse: trainability and attitude. I often hear from trainers how trainable our horses are and what a pleasure it is to train them. Smart horses are easy to train, and they train faster which makes them more marketable sooner. All great horses have a great attitude. It’s about what they think of themselves and what they think of you. Like a person, they will fill the room with their presence, and they will be brave in the show arena and go for it!

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it? If you want to know what a well-cadenced horse looks like, simply follow the great warmbloods in the dressage arena, and then you will understand. My Saddlebred friends keep asking me what is wrong with those Arabians’ rear ends. They say their front ends look good, but their rear ends look like they belong to an entirely different horse. You ask how important is it? It is so important, that many top owners of English pleasure horses are looking to other breeds to give them the great show and ride they are striving for. A recent Arabian horse that exemplifies balance is ROL Divine Style. That’s why we bred him to the full sister of WP Corporate Image who has those same great traits. We will see if he is a great breeding horse. WP Corporate Image has that same great frame and cadenced rear end, and he just oozes with attitude and charisma.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

You asked, so here we go. Quite frankly, I’m tired of watching the same bunch of senior judges consistently misjudging classes. The more AHA talks about the criteria for judging from the Judges School, it seems that these judges still continue to judge the same old way, which is all about that front end, and quite frankly, who is the trainer and who is the owner. These judges are very forgiving for major faults with certain individuals. How many times have we heard that if so-and-so was on that horse they would have won? We have many young judges coming up who have been well-trained and can help change the direction of the English horse in a positive direction. Show Managers and AHA need to step up!

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

Wiloma Plantation has, from the beginning, supported the AEPA with entries and breedings. This is an important class for breeders. In my mind, in the last several years, it has diminished. One reason for this is management just doesn’t seem to be fully organized in the running of the actual classes. Time is important and there is no excuse for delays, as well as mishaps by the announcer, etc. I don’t care how exciting the horses may be, drawn out judging and announcing mistakes just takes the excitement out of it all. Great horses, quick judging and crisp announcing in a timely manner can just leave one breathless.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Sire, no question, Bask. He changed the breed in all areas: English, western, hunt seat and halter. He did it breeding mares from diverse pedigrees. In my opinion, great sires after him either had him in their pedigree or were breeding his daughters, or both.

For the dam, the great Crabbet mare Serafina; the dam of Serafix, Silver Drift and the great Oran Van Crabbet. These stallions sired some of the very best broodmares that when bred to Bask, produced super great show horses.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

For me, it is about breeding English pleasure horses that look like an Arabian. A perfect example is the fabulous Anza Padron. You ask why, because breeders should take the lead in breeding true Arabians and judges should recognize their responsibility in rewarding the breeders for doing a good job.

Rachel Bandy Witt

WILOMA PLANTATION

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

There are a lot of factors to evaluate when looking at a young show prospect, but the four most crucial things I look for are impulsion, carriage, conformation and attitude.

#1: Impulsion – can the horse drop its rear end into an uphill frame and drive off its hocks?

#2: Carriage – while driving behind, can the horse lift off its front end and carry its frame in an English fashion easily on its own?

#3: Conformation – does the horse have a short, strong back combined with a well laid-back shoulder and straight clean legs?

#4: Attitude – does the horse have an intelligent, charismatic, and brave approach while showing off? A horse can have all the right parts, but if they mentally do not want to do the job, they won’t make a great show horse in the saddle seat ring.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

It’s not about how high a horse trots – it’s about how they trot. Cadenced motion starts with a horse’s hindquarters. It is the engine that creates the ideal English horse. When a horse can drop its hip and push off its hocks, it elevates its front end to lift up and back in its frame while also activating a lofty trot up front where the horse can pop its knees and open its forearms. Cadenced motion is also fluid, effortless, balanced and natural – not artificial. Every single step is precise and uniform with no hopping or skipping behind. A correct, cadenced horse is also a pleasure to ride, and at the end of the day, that’s the whole point of an ideal saddle seat horse.

For me, ROL Divine Style exemplifies cadenced motion at a high level in the show ring. We are very excited for the foal by him this year out of our full sister to WP Corporate Image.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

We need to step away from awarding extremes and focus on the overall picture. A horse with an extreme neck and high front-end motion that drags behind is not an ideal winner and should never be placed over an individual that is correctly cadenced and four-cornered. Extreme speed should also be penalized, especially at the strong trot. I would also like to see more focus on the canter in our saddle seat classes. So many big trotters do not have a big fluid canter, and I think sometimes we forget that each gait is supposed to be adjudicated equally. The winner should have the best overall performance in all gaits … not simply be the biggest trotter or the most “extreme.”

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

The AEPA has done a great job creating excitement around promoting breeding programs and showing young prospects. Additionally, it’s provided a fair playing field to young 4-year-olds who may not be quite experienced or strong enough to compete against 5-year-olds in the Junior Horse division. However, I do wish we still had the yearling in-hand AEPA class. It was a great opportunity for breeders to showcase and market their prospects sooner, and I would love for them to consider bringing it back.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Without question, my choice for sire has to be Bask. His influence was unparalleled in the show ring in multiple divisions. My choice for the ultimate dam would be RY Fire Ghazi. I love seeing her name show up in pedigrees (particularly in the dam line), not just because of her pedigree but also her consistency at producing high quality saddle seat horses.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

We need to get back to some fundamental breeding philosophies. Most importantly, we need to keep the breeding pool open by valuing and using some of the best old Crabbet, Polish and Egyptian bloodlines that are rapidly disappearing. Breeding should never be a popularity contest. It’s about finding the most correct individuals, being aware of what crosses historically complemented each other, and being brave enough to make that breeding decision. The great breeders of the past knew and adhered to this philosophy. One strategy we have at Wiloma Plantation is breeding solely for adding to our breeding stock, meaning that we aren’t necessarily breeding for a future show horse. Rather, we are designing an English pedigree to create a future mare or stallion that adds pedigree dimension, variety and value to our breeding program. Breeders should always be thinking about where their program can go 10 years out and beyond.

Joel Gangi

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Conformation, quality, athleticism, and attitude.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

I really don’t pay much attention to the front end until I have observed the hind end. Cadence at the trot is a true balanced in rhythm gait. A good example is a metronome in motion. The horse Sal Mineo was a prime example.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

I judge, so fads don’t play into my decisions. I look for a quality, and a well conformed horse that is athletic and enjoying his job.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

The sires Barcelona BF and GSF Rizing Son, and the dam Cordoba BF. They produce the quality of animal I prefer consistently.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? Horses need to exemplify fluidity and pleasure while performing.

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

1. Soft neck with hinges in the right places for easy bridling

2. Pedigree—a family of talent and equally as important, trainability

3. Length of front pasterns and hind cannon bones

4. The self-confidence and charisma that an individual possesses

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Candance is rhythm; a horse that trots in a 1, 2 rhythm equally in the front end as the hind end at the same time. The front end of some of today’s show horses is brilliant! But unfortunately, through modern training techniques and breeding of certain popular bloodlines, we have lost the hind end. The hind end is the motor—the propeller—and as these trends continue, I feel the longevity of our horses will suffer.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Overall, I think judges are judging to the best of their ability with what is being presented to them in the arena.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding? Very!

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Multi-Worlds Champion Saddlebred mare CH Katharine The Great and Thunder Struck LR! They are both such lovely, soft going horses. I feel the foal would be an ultimate saddle seat performer.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

To see buyers and trainers be less political and more appreciative of the best horse.

Lindsay Rinehart

TROTWOOD FARM, LLC

Jim Lowe

LOWE SHOW HORSE CENTRE

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

1. Head and neck carriage

2. Quality of movement

3. Feet and tail carriage

4. Trainability

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadence is the horse’s motion, rhythm and balance and it’s as important as food and water is to humans. Multi-National Champion Malachi KW (sired by Mamage) best reflects nearly perfect cadence to me.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

We are seeing too much excessive speed in the saddle seat classes and it should be penalized. There should be a distinct change of gait between normal trot and strong trot. But what we are seeing these days is horses come into the class at full speed and it turns into a race. When horses are racing, they lose their form and cadence and it’s not pretty. Horses break their form and gait a lot when they are going too fast. So, I would like to see more judges penalizing excessive speed rather than rewarding it.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

The AEPA class is great for breeders who want to showcase their youngsters. There is a special excitement and enthusiasm for that class. Everyone wants to watch especially the horse trainers. We get to see what crosses are really excelling and what we have to look forward to.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Bask is my ultimate sire. Don’t have to explain myself. All of the very best English horses have Bask in their pedigree. The LaCroix’s accelerated the breed with him—he raised the bar. My ultimate mare was PSI Love U who passed away a few years ago. She has been a big part of my career the last 15 years. She was an Allience daughter out of Provocatiw, by Pro-Fire. She produced some great horses for us, including multi-National Champions Affliction and Vendettaa, and several other great foals. Her last foal, Mamba Mentality, sired by Mamage, is a rising star and one of my favorites right now.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

There are hardly any changes I would like to see in the saddle seat world. It’s so good right now. The competition is unbelievable and people are breeding for specifics. The breeders and the trainers that are involved are doing great things. I just hope I can last another 10 years so I can keep making a run at the King, Joel Kiesner, and all those up-and-coming young bloods.

The excitement I get riding a saddle seat horse is second to none. There’s nothing like showing an English horse, going up and down the middle like a parade horse. And you can be old as hell and still be competitive. There are quite a few of us in our 50’s and 60’s who still want to kick butt and take names. And the discipline specific horses that are being bred these days will keep us doing that right until the end.

Daniel Costa

ON THE BIT, INC.

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Quality - having a well bred horse.

Athletic Ability - ensuring that the horse is bred to do its job, and is able to physically perform.

Attitude - picking a horse with a good mind, one that has excellent trainability, and a willing personality.

Size - as I am a taller rider, I need a larger horse for suitability of horse and rider.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadenced motion is extremely important. To me it shows balance, timing, natural ability, and good training—crucial for the overall picture. Tap Out, in my opinion exemplifies this wonderfully.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Making sure that they are not placing English horses showing in country classes.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

It’s very important. It’s very competitive, and it keeps breeders and owners motivated to be their best.

Kayleigh Meyer

SIGNATURE OAK STABLES

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Powerful hind end, upright neck, length of stride, and show ring presence.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

HA Toskcan Sun - for his leading sire status in the saddle seat division, his beauty, and how he stamps his offspring with this same beauty, athletic ability, and attitude.

Undulata’s Paradise - a Saddlebred mare with an exceptional pedigree. We are excited for On The Bit, Inc.’s upcoming 2024 foal from these two.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? More saddle seat in this world; especially at the local level. Here in Northern California, there’s not many horses to compete with.

I think the hind end should be brought up most as that is where the cadence, balance, bridle, and front end motion is essentially created from. I think a truly special horse trots evenly off all four corners, so that cadenced motion is when a horse trots as hard up front as they are behind which is why I love working Bess Wishes.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

If an English horse can walk, it is shown in the country and commonly, will place higher than a true country horse that is not breaking over level every stride. I am not sure how sustainable that makes our country division; maybe we need to consider a classic country division.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

I think it is hugely important! The breeders and owners need a reason to campaign young horses, and I believe it is a very fun class to not only show in but also to watch. I think it is one of those classes that draws people into the breeding game. It also helps the industry sell young horses either prior to their 4-year-old year so they can compete in the class or after the horse shows in the class.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

HA Toskcan Sun for the trainability and type he puts on his babies, and Heirs Noble Love for her athleticism and presence.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? At some point I would hope that extreme motion and speed will be discouraged in the country division, as the lines between the classes are starting to blur. I think there needs to be a difference between how high they trot versus how they trot high.

Janell Voss

SELECT SHOW HORSES

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

I look for a willingness and quiet manner first. After that, good balanced action and steady head are important. Lastly, I want a pretty horse that catches the eye.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

When I watch my babies, I look first at their hind action. I want to see lots of flex in their hocks. I believe that with good hind action, you can work with the front to elevate and drive forward. An evenness in their motion is important. I want to see all four legs working together.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

I would like to see more done to distinguish between a country horse versus an English horse versus a park horse. It seems like people are taking English horses and putting them in country classes and winning. Many park horses are just English horses pushed a bit harder.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

I believe it is very important. It gives a place to go with 4-year-olds that otherwise would have to compete against 5-year-olds in Junior Horse. To sell good young horses, it is important to get them out and visible as soon as possible and some just aren’t ready as 3-year-olds.

Corry Key

SOUTHWIND ARABIANS/MY WAY RANCH

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Strong hind end with deep hip, long upright neck with laid back shoulder, clean throatlatch, and tractable personality.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadence implies a rhythmic motion, with a smoothness that creates an overall balanced ride, from front to back. This is extremely important in our saddle seat horses. To me, Royal Heir has always exemplified this.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

I would like to see more adherence to the class specs in the country English classes; more emphasis placed on manners; and “not how high they trot but how they trot high.” I think we have lost some of what this class was based on.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

It is extremely important. These are the horses that are the future sires/dams for the next generation of saddle seat horses.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

There is so much variability in genetics, I think it’s hard to pick just one combination. I’ve seen “a sure thing” produce a foal that didn’t meet our expectations, and I’ve seen it far exceed them. Breeding is a little bit of luck, a lot of study and a pinch of prayer. But some combinations seem to click every time, and those are the trends I like to follow.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

I would love to see more diversity in the pedigrees. The same stallions and daughters of stallions are used over and over, and we will eventually be in a corner, breeding-wise.

Dr. Nancy O’Reilly

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

EQUESTRIAN CENTER

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect? Temperament, strength, agility, and stature.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it? It’s very important and reveals the overall beauty of the horse.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Each judge is different and sees things individually as well. Hard to say or predict. The training of judges should be visited on a regular basis and reviewed to improve overall judges’ performance. Who judges each judge. Know the breed you are judging.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding? It gives us a benchmark. We all want to breed the best and most exciting next generation of show horses.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why? There are so many greats, and the space is too short.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why? More sponsors and more spectators. Fill the stands. Money classes bring everyone in.

Lara Ames

CEDAR RIDGE ARABIANS

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect? Arabian type, great shoulder, good feet, and straight tail.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadenced motion is super important. You want a horse that is cadenced on all four legs. It is also super important in country that it not be extreme. My mare Ames Divine is the best representative, in my opinion.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

Doing the gaits is important, but don’t go overboard on any gait. You’re going to kill the winners, and overwork them.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

It’s very important. Everyone wants to win prize money and play in the game.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

I am going to go old school here … Matoi and a Brass daughter. You get balance and ability to use their hind end with Matoi and Brass would add pretty.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

That the horse that is not cadenced and to fast in the arena is penalized. It is not pretty to watch.

Lori Conway

CONWAY ARABIANS, INC.

The price of saddle seat horses is increasing due to demand over supply of top show contenders. What are four things you look for in a young show-worthy prospect?

Young saddle seat horses are the most difficult to predict with absolute success as a top contender. Other divisions are easier, in my opinion, more black and white in the “what you see is what you get.”

We have had a ton of success buying youngsters, such as Coltrane, Noble Rendezvous and Afires Rejoice. All three are built and look totally different, yet all three exude the qualities I have listed below and have been unanimous national champions. What did we see that made us choose them?

1.) Eye Appeal - Overall balance and beauty

2.) Pedigree - On paper, they scream saddle seat division and we knew they would be worthy breeding animals after their show career was over

3.) Attitude - Which I measure with three tests on every horse we purchase: a.) Are they bold and confident in scary situations; b.) Are they “nice”, will they walk up to you and enjoy having you in their space, do they look forward to seeing you when you go in their stall. Mean, cowering or threatening horses are not welcome here; and c.) Are they willing to make an effort and want to put in the work. Without a good work ethic, you have nothing.

4. Conformation - Correct legs and feet are crucial for the longevity of the horse. Without short cannons and long forearms and low set hocks, there is no quality of motion to guarantee success. Also critical to have is a neck with a hinge that comes high out of a long, deep shoulder.

The front end of a saddle seat horse tends to be brought up most. What is cadenced motion to you, how important is it, and who currently exemplifies it?

Cadenced motion is a square diagonal trot and a canter that pushes squarely from the hind foot. It is important to us to see the hocks being under the horse, rather than out behind.

In our breeding program, certainly Coltrane exemplifies this, as well as most of our broodmares. We are excited to add Prosuasion to our farm as our “next step”. He too brings all the qualities listed above and has already proven himself as an incredible show horse and sire.

If you could change anything in the judging fads of a saddle seat horse, what would it be and why?

I would love to someday look at every saddle seat class and know precisely which class is in the ring. The country horses need to slow down and those that are going hard and lack cadence, or their hocks are dragging out behind them to get the motion in front should not be winning prizes. A great country horse is a beautiful thing, and the hot and overly energetic horses need to stay in the English and park divisions.

How important do you feel the AEPA class is for breeding?

The AEPA organization and the classes have been a game changer for the saddle seat division. The opportunity for breeders to see the best 4-year-olds in the country perform individually, has brought excitement and the ability to evaluate individual performances from different genetics.

Your ultimate saddle seat sire and dam … who are they and why?

Breeding is not an exact science, no matter how incredible the sire and dam are. Look at your own family members as a prime example.

The mares Brassmis, RY Fire Ghazi, Joleen WB and Heirs Noble Love have certainly made their mark in the Arabian breed. There are many stallions, past and present that are important, and have or are making their mark in the breed. Our favorites are Coltrane and Prosuasion, with a dash of El Ghazi.

One change you would like to see in the saddle seat world and why?

I think it is time to bring back Informal Combination (country pleasure horses) and formal combination (English and park horses).

These classes were not only entertaining, but they were also a great way to showcase our horses and could be a way for the amateur to drive and the professional to ride.

ROL

Proudly bred & owned by

8x U.S. National Champion & Reserve Champion

Divine Style+/ x Julietta Ames