IXL Noble Express x Bonita Afire | www.AfireBeyV.com | Proudly bred & owned by Maroon Fire Arabians For breeding information or progeny available, contact Shea Stables, 810-329-6392 or Ashton Kiesner, 865-556-0412
Cover Story
By CHRISTY EGAN
There are high hopes at Maroon Fire Arabians and Shea Stables
Two of Inception’s 2019 offspring won national awards in halter
for a banner 2022 show season headlining some special young
as yearlings. The first was CL Intoxicating, a purebred mare owned
show horses by their superstar show horse and sire, Inception.
and bred by Tracy Fincher. CL Intoxicating’s dam is the Afire Bey V granddaughter CP Isadora. That mare is out of the Cal
Once again in 2021 Maroon Fire Arabians, and Marty and Tim
Poly-bred mare CP Isabella (by HF Mister Chips+). CL Intox-
Shea, were the leading AEPA breeders. Horses sired by Maroon
icating was the 2020 Sport Horse Reserve National Champion
Fire Arabians’ stallions Afire Bey V and IXL Noble Express+
ABS Yearling Filly. The second Inception national winner was the
have dominated the Arabian English Pleasure scene in America
Half-Arabian gelding Maserati HGA (x Shy, by Majesteit) bred and
since the AEPA began, and for years before that as well. The
owned by Heather Creque and Gianna Kompier. He was 2020 U.S.
farm’s young stallion Inception, 2017 AEPA Futurity Champion
National Top Ten ABS Half-Arabian Yearling Colt/Gelding.
and four-time U.S. National Champion (unanimous) in English and Park, is proving to be just as spectacular in the breeding barn
This past year at the U.S. National Championships, two more
as his sire and grandsire.
young Inception offspring stepped into the national spotlight. FF Twentyfour Karat (x Afires Gold, by Afire Bey V) went top ten in
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the Arabian Country English Pleasure Futurity, and American Ambition
The Inception youngsters are training great,” notes Joel Kiesner. “They
(x Sweet ‘N Nutty, by Undulata’s Nutcracker) earned a top ten in the
are quiet-minded and eager to be happy. There are great Inception
Half-Arabian English Pleasure Futurity.
Half-Arabians and great purebreds in our barn. These are truly the ‘next level’ English horses in our breed.”
Foxy Afire with Inception colt.
The Sheas are frequently recognized as the top breeders of Arabian/Saddlebred English horses in America. In 2020, Half-Arabians from their breeding won 11 National and Reserve National Championships. The 2022 National shows are promising an outstanding group of participants from Inception’s first two foal crops (2018 and 2019). For four decades Maroon Fire Arabians and Shea Stables have been industry leaders in English type Arabian horse breeding. At the three 2021 National Championship shows (U.S., Youth and
Summer Afire with Inception colt.
Tim Shea, along with Joel Kiesner, have been with Inception since the beginning and have watched and evaluated as many of that stallion’s youngsters as anyone in America. Both have positive comments. “Between the Linigers, and my wife Marty and I, we have some great broodmares,” says Tim. “We love their Inception purebreds. They are strong with type, tall and leggy with great motion turned loose. I am personally ‘over the moon’ excited about the Inception cross with our Saddlebred mares too. They are so good we are breeding all our mares to him right now and have been for several years. His foals are outstanding and he is leaving elegant necks, size and stretch on the Saddlebred type. I’ve never had any Arabian stallion do better. Our good
Mid-Summer), Maroon Fire Arabian’s stallions, Afire Bey V, IXL Noble
Saddlebred mare, Shes a Chrome Diva, granddaughter of World Champi-
Express+ and Inception, produced offspring proudly accounting for 22
ons Castle Bravo and Supreme Heir, had several excellent show horses for
national championships, 14 reserves and 177 national
us before she was bred to Inception. Her Inception foals from 2019, 2020
top ten awards. q
and 2021 are simply superior across the board.”
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Saddle Seat TODAY’S
HORSE
It’s not phase, Consult nota your fears It’s my life. but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, It’s not a hobby, but about your unfulfilled potential. It’s my passion. Concern yourself not with what you andeveryone. failed in, It’s tried not for but with what it is It’s for still possible forus, you to do.
Equestrians.
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Allience+// x Spectra PR, by Promotion Maternal sibling to SF Specs Shocwave
SF The Patriot can play a significant role in your breeding program as a complete outcross for your Afire Bey V and Huckleberry Bey heritage mares. He is sired by the legendary 7x National Champion Aladdinn son, Allience+//, and out of the 2x National Champion Promotion daughter, Spectra PR; also the dam of SF Specs Shocwave. Book your breeding to this incredibly important stallion today.
Proudly owned by Tim & Tiffiny Barta Barta Show Horses, LLC at Yellowstone Ranch, LLC, Ocala, Florida Multi-Program Nominated Sire | Standing at RBC Show Horses, Smithfeild, NC | Call 919.202.8384
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Baske Afire
Photo by Darryl
Strawberry Banks Farm has been breeding for excellence in the English Pleasure division since 1976.
A Temptation
Hey Hallelujah
Each generation carries an indelible mark of beauty and quality. Frozen semen is currently available for multi National Champion producing sires, A Temptation and Hey Hallelujah. Photo by Darryl
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StrawberryBanksFarm.com | info@strawberrybanksfarm.com Barbara Chur - Owner | Brian Murch - Trainer 716.983.3099 Lance Lewis - Assistant Trainer 716.652.9346
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generations
BREEDING
OF EXCELLENCE 1
4
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Judges: Chris Culbreth Joey Canda Judy Kibler 25% Crowd Favorite
Thank you to Sponsors Strawberry Banks Farm and the AEPA!
Participate in the biggest and most interactive Arabian Horse promotion of its kind!
Taking place at the 2022 AHAF Holiday Festival Horse Show ~ November 24-27 at the World Equestrian Center, Ocala Stay up to date at:
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LANDON EQUESTRIAN: BUILDING A F I V E - S TA R F U T U R E by Mary Kirkman At one time, it would not have been unusual to see President Ronald Reagan walk out of the barn at a ranch on Edison Road in Santa Ynez, California. Reagan, whose vacation retreat was in the area, boarded a grey stallion there, and legend has it that when he came to visit, the Secret Service set up special communications equipment in the barn office, just in case a world crisis occurred while he was enjoying an idyllic ride.
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Fast forward 40 years and the ranch, renewed and refurbished by Hayden and Valerie Landon, is a promising new Arabian horse breeding and training operation. Home to the English performance stallion Royal Nobility, a growing collection of broodmares that includes two daughters of the iconic Brassmis, and several other promising candidates, it simmers with possibilities. And after Scottsdale, when Jim Lowe moved his Lowe Show Horse Centre to the property, it added a highly regarded training profile as well. There are two sides to Landon Equestrian today: on one hand, it is a top class facility, owned by an astute businessman, with fine horses and award-winning trainers; on the other, it reflects the headlong enthusiasm and energy of youth. The driving force behind it — the match that lit the candle — is 14-yearold Brooke Landon. Five years ago, her parents, hoping to interest her in sports (an alternative to the popular pastime of staring at one’s telephone screen), suggested that she try horseback riding lessons. To say that it worked is an understatement. At Far West Farms, she found that she liked riding, with Nedra Johnson she fell in love with Arabians, with Kelly Elm she sharpened riding skills, and with Jim Lowe, she advanced to the national level. Landon Equestrian reflects all of those influences and more. The ranch itself — 20 acres, with two barns, paddocks, arenas and all the trimmings — came about when Brooke realized that she not only wanted to ride Arabians, she wanted to breed them, and their equine roster was rapidly outgrowing the limited accommodations at their home. In the hot real estate market, it took Brooke’s letter to the sellers, outlining her dream, to secure the property. While Hayden and Valerie renovated the facility, their daughter dove into pedigree research and endless riding practice (not only with Lowe, but also with Elm, who offers instruction at Landon Equestrian three days a week). “What 14-year-old wants to breed Arabians?” Jim Lowe chuckles. “Brooke’s a different cat. But she gets it. When she’s looking at her phone now, it’s because she’s reading pedigrees.” Brooke can pinpoint her most important decisions. It was the Desperado V son Bay Star Bey, her first Arabian and best companion, who was “the reason I wanted to keep on riding,” she says. When age slowed him down, she searched at Om El Arab for someone to take his place and met Om El Sabir. “I knew then that I wanted to make my own Arabians,” she smiles. Sabir came home with them, and the following year they added, among others, his dam, Om El Shanelle Estopa.
R O YA L
NOBILITY+
(VJ Royal Heir x Joleen WB by MHR Nobility) 2014 Purebred Stallion US National Reserve Champion Arabian Pleasure Driving Owned and shown in 2022 by Brooke Landon in Arabian English Pleasure JTR/JOTR
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What sets Brooke apart is that when she plunged into the complicated business of developing a breeding program, she sought the advice of highly respected breeders — Janina Merz, at Om El Arab, for starters, and then Marty Shea. “She’s fascinated with people that breed horses,” Lowe observes. “I introduced her to Christine Krouch, my first boss when I moved to Santa Ynez over 40 years ago, and they talked breeding and horses. It’s amazing what she understands about different horses in the breed. When she’s talking about breeding, I listen.” Jim also brings to life the names in pedigrees for her, helping her understand each one’s contributions. Early on, Brooke also grasped the difference between the latest popular show horses and the ones whose progeny records indicate an ability to have a positive impact on the Arabian breed. Along the way, her plans evolved. She had learned to ride in many divisions — which adds to her knowledge in evaluating horses — but gradually, English took precedence, which led her to Marty Shea. “In my opinion, Brassmis was the best producer in the entire industry for saddle seat,” Brooke says. “Being the mother of
Afires Heir puts her in a class of her own, but she also had Coltrane SS, Noblemis and Afire Storrm (a national champion in halter).” She was ecstatic when Marty agreed to sell her the Brassmis daughters The Lion Queen, by Apollopalooza, and Mis Superior, by Afire Bey V. “I probably shouldn’t have sold them,” Marty reflects, “but it was an opportunity to get them settled in a serious breeding program. I definitely think that Brooke will be a serious breeder to contend with. Now, she just needs to keep an open mind and be her own best critic.” “I’ve been studying horse pedigrees pretty much every night,” Brooke explains. “I look for what works, what doesn’t work, what can I improve on. I try to crack the code, to figure out what I can do to make the next generation of performance horses.” Goals, she adds, include increasing size, strength, trot and carriage. “I want to create even more spectacular show horses.” This spring her first foal arrived: The Lion Queen’s colt, by twice unanimous U.S. National Champion Inception. Impressive names are being considered, but to the family, he is “Junior,” because he was born on Hayden’s birthday. And he will belong to Brooke Landon for the rest of his life because he was the first. She was there, in the stall, helping him nurse.
LA
BELLA
VITA
(HA Toskcan Sun+ x Expressly Bella by IXL Noble Express) 2015 Purebred Mare Owned and shown in 2022 by Brooke Landon in Country English Pleasure JTR/JOTR
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The fledgling breeding program took another step forward at the end of last year when they purchased Royal Nobility, U.S. National Reserve Champion in Pleasure Driving, who had been in training with Mitch Sperte. “Hayden said to find them a Ferrari,” Jim recalls, “and Mitch had been stabled next to us at Nationals, so I knew the horse and was confident enough to buy him over the phone.” Originally, the tall, elegant “Harry” was intended to be Brooke’s partner in show hack, but when he stepped off the trailer in California, he was even more than they’d realized. “I never dreamed that I’d be saying out loud that ‘I think this horse can win the open English,’” Jim says. “Whether he does or not, I know he can be a contender.” And he has the switch-gears ability to do both: he’ll show with Brooke at Youth Nationals and then with Jim in open English at the U.S. Nationals. In the meantime, they’ll also breed him
BETTY
GRABLE
to some of their mares. By VJ Royal Heir and out of Joleen
LPR
WB, by MHR Nobility, and bred at Shea Stables, he more than satisfies Brooke’s taste in powerful English bloodlines.
(Afires Vision x Royal Wish) 2012 Half-Arabian Mare 2022 Scottsdale Champion Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure JTR Select Owned and shown in 2022 by Brooke Landon
At the same time that the breeding program was developing, so were Brooke’s riding abilities. She credits Nedra, Kelly and Jim with that—and unrelenting practice. “It’s amazing how much you can improve if you understand what you’re doing,” she says. “Kelly has helped me so much with my hands and balance, and Jim has turned everything around.” At Scottsdale this year, she was rewarded with her first championship title, on Betty Grable LPR in Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure JTR 14 & Under Select Rider. “The look on her face said it all,” Jim Lowe smiles. These days, the Reagan story is just a colorful anecdote from the ranch’s past. For the Landons, its future — with Jim Lowe maintaining a national presence in the show ring, Kelly Elm turning out skilled riders, and Royal Nobility just coming into his own — is all about becoming
OSTEEN/SCHATZBERG PHOTO
OSTEEN/SCHATZBERG PHOTO
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a valuable resource for the Arabian horse breed.
LANDON
EQUESTRIAN
Hayden & Valerie Landon | Brooke Landon 2000 Edison Street, Santa Ynez, CA 93460 info@landoneq.com
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Crossing with Afire Bey V, Baske Afire, and all Huck-bred mares, Coltrane offers his beauty and superior athleticism, with length of neck and strong hock. He‘s your perfect cross!
special thanks
to Joel & Ashton Kiesner and their incredible team at Kiesner Training for the care they gave Coltrane in his career at their farm. We are thrilled to have him home, and thankful for all you‘ve done. IXL Noble Express x Brassmis | Multi-Futurity Program Nominated Proudly owned by Peter & Lori Conway For breeding information call 352.234.7987 | Lori@conwayarabians.com Trainer Jennifer Schmitt | 319.361.5011 8894 NW Highway 320 | Micanopy, Florida 32667 | www.ConwayArabians.com
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WP Corporate Image
(Afires Heir x Play Girl MSC, by Traditio)
CONGRATULATES the 2022 Accomplishments of these champions sired by WP CORPORATE IMAGE
WP CORPORATE EMPIRE (x IXL Saphire) Region 12 Reserve Champion Arabian English Jr. Horse Trained by Gabriel Desoto Congratulations to new owner, Anna Dimarco
Corporate Takeover
WP CORPORATE YOWZA
(x Halstead’s Rose) Region 12 Champion H/A English Select ATR Top 5 H/A English Pleasure Jr. Horse Trained by Gabriel Desoto Owned by Rachel Bandy Witt
CORPORATE TAKEOVER
(x Charizma SLG) Region 12 Reserve Champion Arabian Country Pleasure Driving Congratulations to owner/breeder Pam Harris and trainer Tish Kondas!
WILOMA PLANTATION
David & Cindy Bandy wilomaplantation@gmail.com www.wiloma.com
WP Corporate Yowza
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by AMALIA PERRY
A small breeder with massive results, David and Cindy Bandy’s Wiloma Plantation
in Virginia has developed its own personal formula for success, amassing five national championships, seven reserve national championships, and 36 national
top ten awards over the last six years. Selecting only the finest purebred Arabian broodmares, as well as perfecting crosses of Saddlebred, Hackney Horse,
Hackney Pony or Dutch Harness horse, these “super mares” were chosen for producing excellence. Based on traditional lines of Bask, Comet, Eter, El
Ghazi, Barbary, Serafix, Farana, Gulastra, High Hopes and Oran Van Crabbet,
generations of transcending traditional bloodlines to modern day sires have allowed for ultimate success in the show ring.
Taking the triumph of such fine broodmares
and crossing them with the one and only Arabian stallion, WP Corporate Image,
pushes these lines of breeding across the finish line into the winner’s circle. With
only nine horses of age in the show circuit sired by WP Corporate Image, quality over quantity is truly the motto, as each and every one is competing successfully in the saddle seat division. From the Bandy’s out-of-thebox way of thinking, their patience, quality
produced, and their drive has cultivated an empire of champions and, as a finalist
for AHT’s Breeder of the Year, Wiloma Plantation has a bright future ahead. Wiloma Plantation-bred horses, from top: WP Corporate Empire (WP Corporate Image x IXL Saphire, by Aploz); and WP Steely Dan (VJ Heir Apostle x Audrey Marie Van Oran). Ar abian Horse Times | 46 | Saddle Seat • 2022
Already in the 2022 show season, Wiloma Plantation-bred
there. At the Buckeye Sweepstakes, the Bandys watched
Corporate Empire (WP Corporate Image x IXL Saphire, by
Incorporated (WP Corporate Image x IXL Saphire) in the
horses have announced their presence. At Region 12, WP
Aploz) took Reserve Champion Arabian English Pleasure
Junior Horse, while Lian Oteiza’s WP Steely Dan (by VJ Heir Apostle) out of the Bandy-bred mare Audrey Marie Van Oran, earned Reserve Champion Junior Horse honors in the
Country division, both under Gabriel DeSoto. But the standout moment for Wiloma Plantation and the Bandys was watching
all their wishes come true as Rachel Bandy Witt claimed the
championship for Half-Arabian English Pleasure ATR Select Rider on WP Corporate Yowza (WP Corporate Image x
Halstead’s Rose). The defining victory lap around the arena
championship roses be placed on Janet Snyder’s WP Arabian Park championship, and WP Corporate America (WP Corporate Image x Barbarys Angel) in the Arabian Pleasure
Driving for owner Deborah Pearson; while WP Heart of Gold
earned reserve in Half-Arabian English Pleasure for Debra
Booher. At Region 1, WP Little Black Dress (WP Corporate Image x WP Rosanna Orana), owned by Hidden Hollow Farm,
won championships in Half-Arabian Park and Half-Arabian English Pleasure ATR, as well as a reserve in Half-Arabian English Pleasure AAOTR.
in sunny Ocala, Florida highlighted the exquisite brilliance of
With all this proven success and game-changing breeding, the
award in an intensely competitive class is amazing all on its
future greatness and promise to be a mainstay in top arenas;
Wiloma Plantation’s breeding. Achieving such an incredible own; but to win on a horse that one has bred and raised is
a whole new level of triumph. Each step that WP Corporate Yowza and Rachel Bandy Witt took to receive those red and white roses, marked a standout moment in Wiloma Plantation history. Also
noticing
WP
Corporate
Image’s
powerhouse potential is Pamela Harris who bred her mare Charizma SLG to him in 2016, producing Corporate Takeover, the 2022 Region 12 Reserve Champion in Arabian Country Pleasure Driving. These
horses
represent
years of dedication and hard work put into the breed, truly exemplifying the
strides
taken
to
showcase and improve
upon such fantastic lines of
breeding.
And
the
prosperity has not ended
David Bandy celebrates a Wiloma Plantation win, at Region 12 Championships, Ocala, FL.
up-and-coming horses of Wiloma Plantation are destined for they only need the right partners to take them all the way.■
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AHTimes recently caught up with Joel Kiesner at the 2022 Region XII Championship Horse Show.
A few thoughts were exchanged from a busy trainer about an even busier breeding stallion! As the number of multi-National Champions sired by Afires Heir continues to grow, so too does his legacy as today’s Leading Living Saddle Seat Sire and tomorrow’s future of the breed.
AHT: What is the most important thing you can tell us about Afires Heir? National Champion KT Heir Lord (Afires Heir x SA Adriana)
I would say the same thing I said 17 years ago, which has turned out to be spot on. Afires Heir gives the Arabian rider an unusual chance to ride a saddle seat horse that is truly made to do what it was bred for—high soft necks and conformation that allows the horse to comfortably do its job.
Multi-National Champion Heirs Noble Love (Afires Heir x Noble Aphroditie)
No horse replicates himself, but Afires Heir consistently delivers the breeder a foal that grows up to be a show horse whether it’s country or English. So, 17 years ago I wished that everybody could have at least some part of the joy I’ve had while riding him. It is clear that that is happening today.
AHT: 17 years ago? So how old is Afires Heir? Captain” is 20 this year. He looks great, feels great, and his collections are that of a 4-year-old! So, it seems that it could go on forever, but it won’t.
AHT: What would you say to breeders who haven’t used him yet? Well that’s easy. And I don’t even have to be his biggest fan to say, ‘What are you waiting for?’ I don’t have to speak for Captain, the charts do. He’s on top of all the leading sire lists, year after year. What more is there to say? For almost two decades, he’s sired not only the most consistent winners of the heaviest classes, he’s sired the most current. He’s defined what it means to be current and contemporary, yet classic.
AHT: What will be Afire Heir’s contribution to the breed? The first thing that comes to mind is what I see at the horse shows … everywhere I go, I hear the announcer calling out winners by Afires Heir, so it’s apparent that many people really are enjoying their Afires Heir offspring and showing successfully. He is also the leading sire in so many categories, clearly making an important mark on our industry. The other area that I think about even more, is the effect that he has had on the breed and where it is going. Yes, they are winners, but how does he effect the future? It’s becoming clear to me that his greatest influence will be through his daughters. Look around and pay attention, and you will see many extremely nice horses out of his daughters. So, a next level, game changing horse creating the same next level, game changers … proves his blood is strong enough to give the next generation the same opportunity to bear his gifts. Ar abian Horse Times | 55 | Saddle Seat • 2022
Multi-National Champion Afires Heir
2021 National Saddle Seat Leaders Includes U.S., Mid Summer and Youth National English Champion and Reserve wins (AEPA, English Pleasure, Country English, and Park Horse classes). Open and amateur/junior classes only.
1. Jean Laffitte BF 2. Frisco DGL Rizing Stock BF SF Destination Victry 3. Heiristotle 4. Fire It Up CRF Hang Tite CF I Love Luci JSN Mombasa No Kidding PF ROL Divine Style Sal Mineo BF Shocked N Bewildered
2 championships, 2 reserves 2 championships, 1 reserve 2 championships, 1 reserve 2 championships, 1 reserve 1 championship, 2 reserves 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships
Boisvert Farms LLC Glenmoor Farms LLC Boisvert Farms LLC Hagale Family Arabians LLC Alexa or Mckella Tiziani Sherman Ranch Anita Antoniolli or Brooke Leininger Shan & Molly Wilson and Chris Courtney Maddi Eppink and Megan Huke Penny or Laura Carrington Delsan Arabian LLC Boisvert Farms LLC Lisa Blackstone
1. Frisco DGL SF Destination Victry 2. Heiristotle 3. No Kidding PF ROL Divine Style 4. Malachi KW OH Dancing On Heir RA Extraordinare RC Iron Man Revelryz Supreme Sensation SMP
2 championships, 1 reserve 2 championships, 1 reserve 1 championship, 2 reserves 2 championships 2 championships 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve
Glenmoor Farms LLC Hagale Family Arabians LLC Alexa or Mckella Tiziani Penny or Laura Carrington Delsan Arabian LLC Sara Sherman Glaser Lindsay O’Reilly French KGB Texas Marketing/Public Relations, Inc. Debra Hines White Rock Farms, Inc. Cathy or Sophie Yih
1. Jean Laffitte BF 2. Rizing Stock BF 3. Fire It Up CRF Hang Tite CF I Love Luci JSN Mombasa Sal Mineo BF Shocked N Bewildered 4. About A Girl Futurama Gotta Lotta Nirv PF Nirvanas Sizzle PF Pistachio PF RGT Mercury Rising Shoc-A-Lat
2 championships, 2 reserves 2 championships, 1 reserve 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 2 championships 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve 1 championship, 1 reserve
Boisvert Farms LLC Boisvert Farms LLC Sherman Ranch Anita Antoniolli or Brooke Leininger Shan & Molly Wilson and Chris Courtney Maddi Eppink and Megan Huke Boisvert Farms LLC Lisa Blackstone White Rock Farms, Inc. Franklin Farm LLC Marley Elbert or Kari Sheward Hallie & Jennifer Zimmerman Lori Foster Joseph Kinnarney and Bradley Marlow Jacqueline Ware
Ar abian Horse Times | 58 | Saddle Seat • 2022
1. Afires Heir 2. HA Toskcan Sun 3. Afire Bey V (deceased) Baske Afire (deceased) SF Aftershoc 4. SF Specs Shocwave 5. GSF Rizing Son IXL Noble Express 6. Mamage 7. Black Daniels VCP Magnifire VJ Royal Heir WP Corporate Image
1. Afires Heir 2. HA Toskcan Sun 3. IXL Noble Express SF Specs Shocwave 4. Afire Bey V (deceased) 5. Baske Afire (deceased) 6. Black Daniels Hucks Connection V Mamage (deceased) Prosuasion ROL Divine Style VJ Royal Heir
21 11 8 8 8 7 6 6 5 3 3 3 3
1. Afires Heir 2. HA Toskcan Sun 3. GSF Rizing Son SF Specs Shocwave 4. Afire Bey V (deceased) Baske Afire (deceased) 5. SF Aftershoc 6. Mamage (deceased) 7. IXL Noble Express 8. Black Daniels
17 1. Afires Heir 7 2. HA Toskcan Sun 5 SF Specs Shocwave 5 3. Afire Bey V (deceased) 4 IXL Noble Express 3 4. Baske Afire (deceased) 2 Black Daniels 2 Mamage (deceased) 2 2 2 2
1. Matthew Siemon 2. Dalton Budd Joel Kiesner 3. Jonathan Ramsay 4. Jessica Clinton
12 11 11 10 9
24 8 8 5 5 3 3 3
29 13 11 11 10 10 9 8 6 4
1. SF Aftershoc 2. Baske Afire (deceased) GSF Rizing Son 3. Afire Bey V (deceased) Afires Heir HA Toskcan Sun 4. Mamage (deceased) 5. SF Specs Shocwave Thunder Struck LR VCP Magnifire WP Corporate Image
7 1. 5 2. 5 3. 4 4. 4 4 3 2 5. 2 2 2
5. Jason Krohn Shawn Rooker Ryan Strand 6. Gabe DeSoto James Lowe John Golladay
7 7 7 6 6 6
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GSF Rizing Son SF Aftershoc Baske Afire (deceased) Afire Bey V (deceased) Afires Heir HA Toskcan Sun Mamage (deceased) SF Specs Shocwave
10 8 7 5 5 5 5 3
2021 National Saddle Seat Leaders, continued...
1. Hagale Family Arabians LLC 2. Boisvert Farms LLC 3. 6D Ranch Ltd. Rocky or Reese Higgins Joseph Kinnarney & Bradley Marlow Kirby Arabians LLC Starline Arabians LLC White Rock Farms, Inc.
1. Hagale Family Arabians LLC 2. Kirby Arabians LLC 3. Candace Avery Boisvert Farms LLC Rocky or Reese Higgins Joseph Kinnarney & Bradley Marlow Starline Arabians LLC White Rock Farms, Inc. White Rose Arabians LLC
1. Prestige Farms LLC 2. Boisvert Farms LLC 3. Vicki Humphrey Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. 4. Marty Shea Shawn Stachowski 5. Karlton Jackson Lindsay Rinehart 6. David or Cindy Bandy Cedar Ridge Farm Scott and Michelle Harris Joel Kiesner Carmelle Rooker
10 9 7 7 5 5 4 4 3 3 3 3 3
4 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
6 5 3 3 3 3 3 3
1. Boisvert Farms LLC 2. 6D Ranch Ltd. Franklin Farm LLC Hagale Family Arabians LLC Vicki Humphrey Shamrock Farms LLC
1. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. 2. Prestige Farms LLC 3. Cedar Ridge Farm Scott & Michelle Harris Karlton Jackson Carmelle Rooker 4. Boisvert Farms LLC Cal Poly Pomona Paul, Carole & Gary Dearth Joel Kiesner Kingswood Farms Martin L Sherman Jr. Family Trust Alicia Guzman Pace RBC Show Horses Marty Shea
7 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
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3 2 2 2 2 2
1. Boisvert Farms LLC 2. Vicki Humphrey Prestige Farms LLC 3. Shawn Stachowski 4. Lindsay Rinehart Marty Shea 5. David or Cindy Bandy Robin Crisman Stachowski Farm, Inc. Shan & Molly Wilson
7 6 6 5 3 3 2 2 2 2
JULY U . S . N at i o n a l s contenders/Preview
U . S . N at i o n a l s p r o f i l e s Ow n e R s Breeders Trainers a m at e u r s
year in review
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PRESTIGE by COLLEEN SCOTT
F
or more than 40 years, the Schimmel family has been breeding, raising, showing and selling top performing horses in the Arabian industry. And while Irwin Schimmel was at the heart of Prestige Farms, based in Hillsboro, Oregon, his passing in March of 2021 has not diminished what he spent those many decades building. In fact, Prestige Farms is still at the top of the industry and with Irwin’s wife, Pam at the helm and assisted by their daughter, Theresa, its legacy will live on for decades to come. Irwin got his start with Arabians when he visited Dick and Kay Patterson in Sisters, Oregon during the late 70s. When he became smitten with the handsome colt Andreanov (Negatraz x *Andorra), “Irwin just went on and on about him,” recalls Pam. “He couldn’t stop talking about him—and that’s what started it all.” After purchasing Andreanov, Irwin started studying bloodlines in earnest and acquiring mares that he thought would make good English pleasure horses. Over the course of four decades the Prestige Farms program produced more than several hundred horses. (While Datasource lists an official number of 268 bred by the farm and 120 by Irwin or Irwin/Pam Schimmel, it does not include any breedings prior to 2000.) With all of those horses on the ground competing around the country, an entire book could be written about the success of the Prestige Farms’ horses. Instead, we’ll focus on some recent accolades.
LEADING SADDLE SEAT BREEDER
The careful selection of bloodlines through the years has led to Prestige Farms being named the Leading Breeder of National winning Saddle Seat horses based on Champion and Reserve Champion wins at the 2021 U.S., Mid Summer and Youth Nationals. The farm was named Overall Leading Breeder by number of horses, second place overall breeder of purebred horses and tied for second place overall breeder of Half-Arabians. The horses claiming these titles include: Eternal Fire PF, Gotta Lotta Nirv PF, Heirs Rock N Roll, Hinged in Heaven, JK Heiristocracy, Nirvanas Sizzle PF, No Kidding PF, OH Wake Me Up,
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FARMS
the legacy continues
Pistachio PF and Sure Fire Redemption. Showing true versatility, they earned titles in English and Country Pleasure, as well as Park, from Walk/Trot and JOTR, to every amateur age range and open.
In fact, since AHT began collecting such data 10 years ago, Prestige Farms has been a top five leading saddle seat breeder of national champion and reserve winners for nine of them, reaching leading status last year.
“It’s really gratifying for us to see owners succeeding with horses that our family bred,” says Theresa. “We’re excited to share what my father and we all love, with others in the Arabian horse community. My dad considered everyone in the industry to be a part of his extended family and so do we.”
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
Besides breeding top show horses, the Schimmel family also showed extensively. Once grandchildren came along, they showed too. While Irwin had a love for driving, his children and grandchildren branched out into almost every other discipline available. Theresa and granddaughter, Patience, still compete, and grandson, Kade Spencer of KS Reining Horses, is now training reining horses out of the Prestige Farms’ facility. While showing successfully was always important, it wasn’t what was most valued by the family. In an article written about Irwin in the Times in 2018, he said, “What I tell the kids when we go in is let’s have a good ride and do the best we can. And if we don’t have enough, next time we’ll have enough. The biggest thing is having fun. Winning is great, but having fun is more important. And you don’t have to win to have fun.” Pam and Theresa have a similar viewpoint. “We are trying to follow in his footsteps,” says Theresa, who started showing alongside Irwin when she was seven years old. “We want to continue his legacy, producing quality horses that sell and people can have fun with. Dad really wanted
WR Tiara with Kade. to do what was best for the Arabian industry by making Arabians better in any way that he could. And he really enjoyed sharing his love for the Arabian breed with other people.” Theresa says she and Pam are taking their time and seeking counsel from other well-known breeders. “It’s funny, everyone we call and ask breeding questions of, tells us they would always call Irwin for advice, so I’m not sure who we are going to ask.”
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Above: Irwin with Empress Of Bask, 2004 U.S. National Champion Arabian Pleasure Driving AAOTD, and her daughter, Fox Appeal (right), 2009 Canadian National Champion H/A Pleasure Driving AAOTD. Another thing people continuously bring up to Theresa is Irwin’s infectious grin and the mischievous twinkle in his eye. “He impacted so many people and was so loved by everyone in the industry,” she says. “it’s really wonderful to talk to other people about him and hear their Irwin stories.” Theresa and Pam plan to continue breeding to outside stallions (they don’t stand one of their own). This year, 20 foals reflecting Irwin’s last year of making breeding selections arrived, bred to the stallions SF Aftershoc, Art of the Deal, Noble Braveheart and Nutcracker’s Nirvana. In addition to continuing the breeding program, Pam and Theresa are making some changes around the farm. “For the first time, Silvio Domingues Da Silva is going to be taking outside horses for training,” says Pam.
MORE THAN A BREEDING AND TRAINING OPERATION
It’s not the ribbons and recognition as top breeders that keep Theresa and Pam excited about continuing the farm’s legacy. It’s more than that. The two feel strongly about giving back to the industry, helping generate excitement about showing, and most importantly, paying it forward. “Irwin liked to do what he called ‘leave a little meat on the bone,’” says Pam. “He really loved supporting the youth and was known to offer really good deals on horses that he wanted to go to some of them. He wanted everyone to have the opportunity to own a nice horse. And when those
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Prestige Farms’ newest generation of champions. kids, especially, were showing Prestige-bred horses, it’s almost like Irwin was right there in the ring with them. He loved to cheer them on from the rail.” Mike Whelihan, long-time friend, breeder, trainer and a resource Irwin went to in the early days of his involvement with Arabians, said, “Irwin really had a love of the horses. And he loved to watch his girls, family and young people succeed.” Joel Kiesner, who worked for Irwin twice, credits him with keeping him in the horse business. Having first worked for Irwin in the mid 80s, Joel left to pursue some other opportunities. When those proved to be disappointing, he decided to go back to school. Working for Irwin parttime for two years of college, Joel came to the realization that he was interested in the horse business after all. “I thought, maybe I can still do this, but do it a different way,” Joel recalls. “Irwin had really good horses. We had a really good time. And we won a lot. Irwin let me make mistakes and we learned together. If I hadn’t worked for Irwin during that time, I probably wouldn’t have
gone back into the horse business. He was a great communicator and a great listener. He was always there to talk; whatever it was about, he was always just there. Truth is, he’s still with me every day. He taught me a lot of things along the way.” Besides Irwin’s great communication and listening skills, he was also known for always lending a helping hand. Joel echoes that sentiment. “He really liked helping people. It was one of his greatest joys, helping with whatever they needed; didn’t matter what it was.” Joel acknowledges, “It’s probably the most important thing I learned from him—the great gift of doing something for someone else.” In Irwin’s honor, and especially in honor of his generous spirit, Pam and Theresa recently offered eight Prestige Farms bred horses in an auction benefitting the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund. And it’s just the start of how Pam and Theresa plan to continue honoring Irwin’s legacy by paying it forward. “He was my best friend, a great friend to everyone in the Arabian industry and we all really miss him,” says Theresa. “But we’re also excited for this next chapter at the farm. I believe he would be too.” ■
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IRWIN HE WAS MY FRIEND, BUT HE WAS EVERYBODY’S FRIEND Irwin saw the best in everybody, not their worst. He was quick to forgive and allowed us our inadequacies. HE WAS MY FAMILY, BUT HE CALLED MANY HIS FAMILY Irwin was a father when I needed caring council. As a brother we shared our struggles and supported one another.
Multi-National Champion Firetok+/ 1990
As a crazy uncle he brought silliness and joy. HE WAS MY MENTOR, BUT HE WAS A TEACHER TO MANY “Well, see, the thing of it is …” is the phrase he would start with when he was about to give his gentle advice and observations, drawing on his vast life experiences. HE WAS IMPERFECT, BUT EVERYBODY IS IMPERFECT As we all fall from being our best from time to time, so did he. But like he would expect from us, he fought his own battles with the heart of a lion. HE HAD HUMANITY. EVERYBODY HAS SOME HUMANITY … But Irwin’s was different, it was special. And he had a lot more of it. It seems to me that his special kindness, love of people, especially kids, shone brightest when it was combined with horses. There was a certain magic that happened for him, the kids, and everyone around him when these things came together. That always brought out his Buddha giggle. I WILL MISS HIM. Those who didn’t know him missed an opportunity to see one of God’s great works. IRWIN IS GONE … But to any of us who received his generous heart and giving nature first hand when we needed it, we will go forward and keep his good works in mind and look for opportunities to help someone that needs a lift.
-Joel Kiesner Res-National Champion Fox Appeal & Alexis Kiesner 2018
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The Ames Family has had a long histor y of competing with the Schimmel Family and Prestige Arabians. We have shared victory passes in the show ring, bought horses from each other for our programs, and watched our families grow. We would like to congratulate the Schimmel Family and Prestige Arabians on being the Leading Breeder of English horses in 2021. I know Irwin is looking down and is extremely proud of all.
Lollie & Lara
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Saddle Seat T O DAY ’ S
TRAINERS•OWNERS•BREEDERS•AMATEURS
“Any horse“The doing their joband in abeauty comfortable, happy elegance of a swan andmanner is poetry in motion, but so of much as the saddle seat horse.” thenone power a Ferrari!” –Michelle Harris —Lori Conway
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Dwane Hankins COLONIAL DOWNS TRAINING Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? It’s always been my favorite ... the thrill of the crowd, the power the horses possess. What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? Leg and soft bridle. I believe a light horse is a happy horse, as well you will get more motion. How can the middle market for saddle seat horses be improved? Lesson programs! What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? No question ... heart! Who do you consider (past or present/horse and/or human) to have played a pivotal role in growing the saddle seat divisions in the Arabian industry? Gordon Potts and Ray LaCroix.
Jim Lowe LOWE SHOW HORSE CENTRE What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? Christine Krauch said to me 30 years ago that there’s a difference between being a horse trainer and being a horseman. There were few guys back then who were very good horsemen; age and experience has made us into good horsemen. There was a time when I didn’t feed or groom worth anything, it took being around Rob and Caralyn … they taught me how to take care of a horse outside of training one. All I wanted to do is win. It was immature, but all I was focused on was winning. I became a horse trainer long before I became a horseman. Horsemen are built over time; some get there faster than others. I was a late bloomer; I became a better horse caretaker because of the people I was around. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? Working for Tim Shea. He taught me how to grind; he’s the reason, besides my parents, that I know how to work. Him, Stan White Sr. and Ray LaCroix. They taught me how to not quit. My biggest fear is underachieving and failure. I’m constantly trying to figure out how to do the right thing. There are so many people who can teach you how to do it the right way; I’m always asking my friends, taking lessons, trying to do it the right way. Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/ breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? Yes, I do. I was the second youngest person to get my judges card, and at the time, I thought it would give me some notoriety; that was even before I won the open western at 25. Now, I think you see more; it gives you a reality check. Sitting in the middle makes you see the pluses and minuses of horses and riders very quickly. You can see what works and what doesn’t, and it’s the only time I have much of a chance to watch people ride. How the good riders manage the ring and present their horses becomes very apparent from standing in the middle. hat advice would you give an amateur looking to start riding in the saddle seat division? Take billions of lessons from your local top trainer. You can never take enough lessons. It’s a proven fact. Take lessons from more than one person. I listen to everybody; the more tools that I can put in the toolbox gives me better answers for all the questions that horses give you. Who do you consider (past or present/horse and/or human) to have played a pivotal role in growing the saddle seat divisions in the Arabian industry? Gene and Ray LaCroix. They made all of us want to ride English. Everybody that’s anybody (now my age) wanted to be Gene and Ray LaCroix. Tim Shea was the first guy who started going out to learn from Gene and Ray that wasn’t already working for them. In a couple years, he quickly transformed into a big time English trainer. Tim Shea and I are a proven fact that you don’t have to have any athletic ability to be a horse trainer; you just have to grind and frequent the local library of horse trainers. It’s the only sport you can continue to train into your 60’s and still kick ass.
Brooke Landon LANDON EQUESTRIAN LLC Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? Saddle Seat is truly a one-of-a-kind discipline. I love how the horses move, with their heads high in the air trotting proudly and their motion. I was introduced to it by my great friends Nedra Johnson, Jim Lowe and my cousin Jordan Parr (soon to be Jordan Smith). Jim let me ride a couple of the horses there and after we left, I knew it was the discipline for me. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? I feel that you must know what you’re doing and whatever discipline you choose you must understand all the key dynamics about that discipline to secure your knowledge in having your horses performing at the top level. You must also have good sportsmanship and realize that you won’t always win, but there will always be time for you to show what you have to offer in the industry. There is always time for every one of us to shine. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? I would have to say that winning my first championship at Scottsdale a few months ago made me strive to want to breed and train even more. The Arabian horse is so much fun to be around and ride, and winning that class set it in stone as the breed I am committed to staying with forever. It made me want to breed the next generation of show horses as I watched the class while I was in it and analyzed what the horses did great and what they did better, giving me ideas on what I need to do with my horses. It wasn’t even just that class, but the entire show. I watched and studied for clues to what the next generation needs to be even more successful. Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I’m only 14, but I absolutely intend on going to judges school. It’s very important to me to get it because I love to learn and want to make a difference. Who do you consider (past or present/horse and/or human) to have played a pivotal role in growing the saddle seat divisions in the Arabian industry? Two of my biggest role models for breeding and training are Marty Shea and Sheila Varian, who have played huge roles in saddle seat in the last several decades. Sheila paved the road for the Arabian horse, and Marty Shea added the cars on that road.
Brian Murch STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM
How closely do you follow other saddle seat breeds? What fundamentals or institutions can Arabians use as inspiration for the saddle seat discipline? I certainly try to stay up to date with other breeds. It is always so motivational to attend the Saddlebred World Championships. It is definitely a production that leaves you in awe. How do saddle seat classes for Arabians differ from other breeds? I believe we are all after the same product: quality individuals that are cadenced, balanced, with high carriage and bright ears. Along with the wow factor to boot! Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I do have my judge’s card. It definitely makes you respect the process necessary to be objective with integrity. As well as makes you a better exhibitor in terms of presentation. What advice would you give an amateur looking to start riding in the saddle seat division? Get into a great lesson program and achieve all the basics beginning to end. Most importantly, start with your first horse that is geared to your ability, not the one that impresses you the most that you are presently not experienced enough for.
What drew you to the saddle seat divisions? Almost as soon as I started taking riding lessons, I heard about saddle seat horses and was instantly captivated. I am drawn to the excitement and fire in these horses. How closely do you follow other saddle seat breeds? What fundamentals or institutions can Arabians use as inspiration for the saddle seat discipline? I am breeding both Arabian and Saddlebred horses. I think both breeds can learn a lot from the other. In breeding you are looking for a lot of the same qualities in both. I love the way that Saddlebreds highlight the great mares of their industry with the Broodmare Hall of Fame. They put a great emphasis on outstanding mares. How can the middle market for saddle seat horses be improved? I would love to see a stronger middle market for saddle seat horses. We need more lesson programs exposing kids to them. We need to make the show ring accessible to people coming into the breed. We need to find a way to make the small shows fun and rewarding.
Kristie Shipp KINGSWOOD FARMS, LLC Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? I love the high heads, hinged necks, bright eyes, and graceful motion of the saddle seat horses. I love the way sitting on a saddle seat horse can feel like riding a controlled explosion. I love watching the greats move with seeming effortlessness around the arena.
What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? Arabians bring beauty and grace. Their heads are exquisite and their eyes are beautiful. The Arabian neck can hinge and fold in a way that other breeds cannot. Their motion is elegant and graceful. An Arabian with a beautiful head and neck, and outstanding motion is breathtaking.
Rob & Liz Haar / Kayleigh Meyer
SIGNATURE OAK STABLES
What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? At our farm, we like kind horses who still have the great Arabian spirit. We think those qualities are both bred and trained, and we strive to do both. Our horses are amateur friendly, even at very young ages. How closely do you follow other saddle seat breeds? What fundamentals or institutions can Arabians use as inspiration for the saddle seat discipline? Our farm has two locations: the Arabians/Half-Arabians are in Dexter, Michigan, and the Saddlebreds in Versailles, Kentucky. While there are similarities, the breeds are also very different; and of course, we love our Arabian/Saddlebred crosses. Often we see the best of both breeds in our Half-Arabians, which is why we breed several each year. How do saddle seat classes for Arabians differ from other breeds? We like how the Arabian classes care a little more about all the gaits, making sure horses can perform at each according to the class requirements. In the Saddlebred classes, once the horses line up, they are much more efficient than Arabians, and those minutes saved on each class really add up at the end of a long day. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? Our breeding program is based heavily on the quality of the mare. We pride ourselves on having high quality mares, many/most of which are also proven in the show ring. What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? Their animation and spirit is like no other horse, beautiful to watch and fun to ride. Both those features help many Arabians to be naturals in the saddle seat division. Watching a great saddle seat class, whether we have a horse in it or not, is our favorite thing to do at shows.
Morgan Leigh Pelzman HOLLY HILL FARMS LLC / COLONIAL DOWNS TRAINING CENTER Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? For me, saddle seat is the peak of excitement! Riding a horse that is bred and built for the job is fun for any division/discipline, but there is simply “something” about a fiery saddle horse that loves to show that makes it all that more thrilling! What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? At its core, horsemanship principles are based on horse psychology and natural behavior. The principles are designed to help the horseman understand and communicate with their horses. For me this is founded on solid, well-rounded training/handling, communication and understanding. Keeping an open mind has also been a strong value. There are so many ways to train horses, and what works for one person might not work as well with another horse or rider/owner relationship, so there can be disagreements about how best the job should get done but what is truly comes down to is what works for the owner/handler/rider and their horse. How do you feel the mechanics and fundamentals of saddle seat divisions contribute to and have a positive impact on a horse and rider? I believe that the fundamentals of saddle seat can bring a rider all the way through “form to function,” because if the rider can maintain their center when riding, this leads to a strong core, and a better feeling of the horse in your hands, legs and seat. Regardless of discipline, a horse’s center of gravity is the most advanced point of support for them. Saddle seat horses perform with a high level of collection and motion that shifts significantly toward their hindquarters when they move, so being able to stay with the horse’s forward and upward motion, as well as the ability to not hang onto their mouth and not get left behind, is what comes from a tone, responsive core. What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? The refinement and intelligence of the Arabian combined with the elegance, animation and size of the Saddlebred resulted in a horse that was practically tailor-made for the saddle seat discipline. Arabian breeding also adds soundness, solid/good bones, beauty and brilliance.
Lara Ames CEDAR RIDGE ARABIANS Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? We love the thrill and excitement of a beautiful saddle seat horse. We show in all divisions, but the saddle seat horse has always been our favorite. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? Honesty, ethics, and do what is best for the breed. How do saddle seat classes for Arabians differ from other breeds? I love the endurance and stamina of an Arabian horse. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? I think for our own breeding program, right now not having a stallion is the best thing that could have happened to us, it has forced us to breed to outside stallions. Who do you consider (past or present/horse and/or human) to have played a pivotal role in growing the saddle seat divisions in the Arabian industry? Gene LaCroix, he was the legend that started it all and we have evolved from there. Ar abian
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Correy Key, DVM SOUTHWIND ARABIANS AND EQUINE SERVICES / MY WAY RANCH What drew you to the saddle seat divisions? Of all the disciplines I have ridden and shown, I think saddle seat is the most challenging. Being petite, it takes a lot of effort on my part but that’s also why I gravitated to it. I remember the feeling I got when I watched Afires Heir win his first national championship and I knew this was the discipline to which I would forever be drawn. What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? I try to approach every breeding with the intent to create a horse that is both athletic and family friendly. Both of our stallions can be ridden by my 13-year-old daughter, and to me, that’s important. I also approach each horse as an individual, never to be put in a box or labeled prematurely. Not every horse is going to be happy being a saddle seat horse and I want to see them be successful in the discipline in which they are happiest. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? About a year ago, I had a talented filly in training who had a freak accident and fractured her pastern (P2). Before her show career could even begin, it was over. Understandably, I was devastated, and I think everyone expected me to have the mare euthanized. Instead, I called my alma mater, the University of Missouri-Columbia, and they took her to surgery. It was an arduous process, with cast changes and staged pin removals, but it’s now 15 months later and she will be bred to Folsom this year. My vision for her never changed, but the timeline did. So instead of seeing her wear roses, I will have to be patient until her foals can. I think, if anything, the saddle seat discipline has taught me about patience and resilience in the face of adversity. I can see down the road now, instead of just the here and now. We are in this for the long haul and do not plan on going anywhere. Do you have your judges card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I passed my judges test about 10 years ago or so. I haven’t had the opportunity to judge Arabian shows very much, with being a full-time veterinarian, mom and breeder (although I judge in other organizations). It was a great learning opportunity, and I would encourage more amateurs to go to the school, whether they decide to go through the interview process to obtain their card or not. I think going through the process and getting my card made me more objective when it comes to evaluating my own horses and program. I hope to be able to judge more as my kids get older, and hopefully, my professional life slows down. What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? The Arabian saddle seat horse brings to the table the grace and beauty that other breeds don’t necessarily possess. I think that’s why the Half-Arabian divisions are so strong; the Arabian can add the fluidity of motion and classic beauty that is so inherent in our breed, while bringing in the stronger movements of other breeds like the Saddlebred and Dutch Harness Horses.
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David Bandy WILOMA PLANTATION Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? From the time I was a child, I loved the excitement of an animated horse. The English division, for me captures that excitement. That is why I choose to breed Arabians, Half-Arabians, Hackneys and American Saddlebreds. What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? The core values at Wiloma Plantation for breeding would be Arabian type first and foremost. While most breeders have significantly improved the front-end frame of their horses, they have also lost the important rear end impulsion and the flexion of the hocks. At Wiloma, we have instilled into our breeding program, thru Crabbet and proven Polish lines, a strong rear end. To further enhance the overall look, it is imperative that they have a fountain tail carriage. Density of bone and size of the hooves is another feature that must be instilled. Last but not least comes trainability. When we have achieved all these traits, we feel we have correctly drawn from the great breeders of the past and set a positive path for future breeders. These horses are a pleasure to own and show. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? As a breeder, a constant desire to learn, the ability to understand what stallion to use on a given mare, endless study of pedigrees (I’m on Datasource at least five times a day), the ability to cull, visiting other farms to learn what they are doing, and foremost, being honest with yourself as well as others. How closely do you follow other saddle seat breeds? What fundamentals or institutions can Arabians use as inspiration for the saddle seat discipline? I follow the Saddlebred and Hackney breeds very closely. By that I mean I go to their shows, I belong to their registries, I mingle with their major breeders and I learn a lot. It is always interesting to hear their comments on the Arabian breed, particularly the English division. I know that when I show the Arabian horses being bred at Wiloma and I hear honest positive feedback, we’re on the right track. It used to be that they would say, “If it’s a great show horse you want, buy a Saddlebred.” They aren’t saying that now, they’re saying, “Nice job.” We now even have some prominent Saddlebred breeders asking for our advice in their breeding program. We have bred World Champion Hackneys and Champion Saddlebreds at Wiloma. Our trainer, DeSoto Training Center, is also involved with multiple breeds and constantly learning and improving. One fundamental thing that Arabian horse show managers can learn from others, it’s a HORSE SHOW, it’s not a marathon! As a successful retired Architect, the venue matters. Just look at what a great venue did recently for Region 12. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? I will never forget attending the Buckeye for the first time and seeing Jim Stachowski show Countess Vanessa! That’s when I knew I had to incorporate Oran Van Crabbet into our new breeding program. As if she wasn’t enough, then along came Gene LaCroix on Oran’s Adagio! We are so excited to show the world what our Orans Continuo (grandson of Oran Van Crabbet) daughters are doing when bred to our lead national champion stallion WP Corporate Image.
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Lance Lewis STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? I love the natural impulsion and excitement that comes from the saddle seat division. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? Honesty and professionalism are big ones. Always stay true to yourself and the horse. How do saddle seat classes for Arabians differ from other breeds? I think the importance of all three gaits is the difference between Arabians and other breeds. The walk and canter hold much more weight in our classes than others. Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I do not have my judge’s card, but I plan to attend school this year and am looking forward to that experience and how it can help me prepare my horses for the ring. What advice would you give an amateur looking to start riding in the saddle seat division? Have fun and don’t be discouraged if you make mistakes.
Jennifer Hagale Drinnon HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? There are so many, the list could go on and on. The first to come to mind would be ambition/passion, honesty and dedication. Maybe the most important is dedication. Dedication requires a strong work ethic, but it also needs to involve embracing constructive feedback in order to enhance your skills. What is an experience that has shaped your training or breeding program? We just recently started developing our breeding program and it has been fast and furious. It really started for us when we had the opportunity to acquire Aftershoc. It was so much fun to go to the shows and watch his get succeed, but I think the best experience for me was bringing Aftershoc back to the show ring after so many years. I think this was so much fun as a breeder because so many people owned his offspring but had never had the opportunity to actually see him in the ring, and for the people who had seen him show before, I think it was fun to get to see him older still have such presence.
the industry for 20 years, it was crazy to come back and see how competitive this division has become. The horses just keep getting better and stronger. I think we will continue to see that over the next 5 years. I think the trainers continue to work hard to make sure they never fall behind with these horses, and they will continue to bring out their full potential. What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? Beauty, athleticism, and big hearts.
What advice would you give an amateur looking to start riding in the saddle seat division? Never give up. If you have a bad ride or a bad show, build from it and learn from it. Babe Ruth once said, “It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.” How do you picture the saddle seat division growing in the next 5 years? The saddle seat division continues to surprise me. After being out of Ar abian Horse Times | 77 | Saddle Seat • 2022
Joel and Ashton Kiesner KIESNER TRAINING Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? Saddle seat incorporates a vast number of fundamental principles that are seen across many disciplines of riding, and putting those all together creates an exhilarating, fun, and rewarding show ring performance. Being able to take a horse to its full capabilities as a saddle seat performer is something that never gets old, as the process is packed with problem solving, understanding, and compromise that continue to change with each horse. Saddle seat horses are so unique in their presence, both in the show ring and out. The natural ability of these horses creates a picture that is packed with excitement and energy, and showcase the progress breeding programs have made on the discipline. What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? So much of the process is founded upon patience and adaptability. Each horse presents vastly unique challenges that must be met with a new way of critical thinking and problem solving, all of which require different amounts of time and effort to translate into a successful training process. We follow the natural path of each horse and wait for them to tell us when they’re ready, which some might take a little longer than others, but the reward in waiting to ensure each horse is developed correctly and shows itself in attitude and performance longevity. How do you feel the mechanics and fundamentals of saddle seat divisions contribute to and have a positive impact on a horse and rider? The fundamentals of saddle seat riding overall teach riders how to act patiently, compassionately, effectively, and quickly. A skilled rider can make careful hidden adjustments that positively impact the performance of the horse or their position in the ring. Saddle seat teaches riders to always be alert and ready to act, taking in all that’s happening underneath and around them, but not jumping the gun when making those actions. For horses, consistent and proper training can teach them how to collect and propel themselves naturally and use 100% of their natural ability when performing. This allows them to move properly in the way that suits them, prolongs performance and prevents injury. A lot of these benefits to the rider, however, can be taken and applied to situations outside of riding, such as the learned benefits of patience and adaptability to situations.
Vicki Humphrey VICKI HUMPHREY TRAINING CENTER What drew you to the saddle seat divisions? The energy of the saddle seat division is very attractive. The drive, impulsion and attitude of saddle seat horses is what excites us. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? Integrity is most important for success. Perseverance is necessary to survive. Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I have had my judge’s card since 1978 and have been fortunate to judge all over the world. It is a different perspective from being in the saddle or on the rail and has definitely impacted my training and showing. The judging education enforces the specs of each class that as a trainer, you sometimes put to the side to concentrate on bridling, transitions, etc. As a judge you focus on quality, balance, presence, and manners, as well as training and your perspective broadens. Presentation changes as well after judging. For instance, I used to be the last horse through the gate and last to the line-up. After judging for 40 plus years and appreciating the horses that get in the ring quickly and to the line-up quickly, I now do the same when showing. How can the middle market for saddle seat horses be improved? A second-tier show circuit will give middle market horses a place to compete successfully. That show circuit will give new riders a place to practice their skills. We are missing a huge opportunity in our breed to get new owners excited. Value shows will help keep the cost down for new owners and hopefully begin to develop a more local, fun, less pressure show circuit where middle market horses can succeed. What advice would you give an amateur looking to start riding in the saddle seat divisions? The best advice I can give prospective riders is this: learn to ride before you learn to show! I see so many riders more anxious to get in the ring before they have learned the basic balance and control needed to show their horses to their best abilities.
Rachel Bandy Witt WILOMA PLANTATION Why is the saddle seat discipline for you? Whether I’m watching from the stands or sitting in the saddle, there is nothing that compares to the thrill of a great saddle seat horse. Their immense power combined with stylish elegance is incomparable. What are the most important qualities to be a successful professional in the Arabian horse industry? From a breeding perspective, I think it takes endless, constant study to truly excel at producing a national quality English horse. It starts with understanding how we got where we are today and that requires learning the great old Crabbet, Polish, and Egyptian lines that developed our Arabian saddle seat horses. Understanding where we came from then determines where we want to go. Today, I think the most crucial aspect to focus on is longterm breeding. It’s not simply just about breeding the next best English horse for tomorrow – it’s about producing the next group of breeding horses with various bloodlines to contribute to the future of our breeding program and the Arabian industry. This is exactly what has been done at Wiloma for the last 15 years. How closely do you follow other saddle seat breeds? What fundamentals or institutions can Arabians use as inspiration for the saddle seat discipline? Our Half-Arabian industry gives us an immense opportunity to collaborate and engage with other saddle seat breeds. At Wiloma, we actively follow the Saddlebred and Hackney breeds very closely, and the biggest lesson I’ve learned from these programs is “it’s not how high they trot, but HOW they trot.” If we could learn anything from other breeds, I would say our primary focus should be developing strong rear ends to produce a 4-corner trot without excessive speed. Do you have your judges’ card? If yes, why was this important to you? How has judging and evaluating horses contributed to your training/ breeding program? If no, do you intend on going to judge’s school? Why or why not? I attended the AHA Judges School in 2012, and I recently received my promotion to become a National/Regional Judge in January of this year. I also aspire to pursue judging cards for Saddlebreds and Hackneys. Judging is a tremendous honor and an immense privilege for me. It has allowed me more exposure to other regions to see new horses, trainers and exhibitors. Consequently, I can see more of what is out there and consider how it might benefit our breeding program at Wiloma down the road. How can the middle market for saddle seat horses be improved? I think one of the most crucial factors for breeders today is to be completely open-minded. Essentially, we should constantly be on the lookout for great individual horses that can add or build onto our breeding program. They don’t have to be national champions, and they don’t have to come from large, popular breeding barns. If they are an excellent individual with a valuable pedigree, they deserve to be utilized in some way. Great breeders understand this philosophy, and they are constantly looking for these horses. Our “middle market” is full of horses that fit this description, and in my opinion, they are the answer to keeping our breed moving forward.
Michelle Harris HARRIS ARABIANS
Why is saddle seat the discipline for you? The beautiful motion and athletic ability of a saddle seat horse is electrifying! What are your core horsemanship values that you use in training or breeding? Quality in conformation, temperament and Arabian type—not replacing one for the other. How can the middle market for saddle seat horses be improved? Academy programs for youth and adults. Have some shows for them specifically ... one day shows ... and not expensive. This way, individuals just starting aren’t shell shocked by the prices, and can get their foot in the door. Most first time home owners don’t buy a million dollar home; we have to start them off falling in love with the lifestyle, and then see if they want to go all in at a higher level. I think the system we have set up for Select and Choice and Elite has helped, however, most of the time people in the Select are paying to ride a previous U.S. National Champion, so it doesn’t help the middle market horse. How do you feel the mechanics and fundamentals of saddle seat divisions contribute to and have a positive impact on a horse and rider? It is key to success and enjoying the ride! What qualities do Arabians bring to breeding a great saddle seat horse? Temperament, sociability, and type.
The Ames Family Jordan, MN & Scottsdale, AZ www.Cedar-Ridge.com
In late 2021, Cedar Ridge Arabians made the decision to focus solely on its breeding and performance program alongside Tom and Elizabeth Moore, and we are very honored to have Tom represent us, working and training some of our horses in 2022. Cheers to the many roses already won and cherished memories made, and here’s to many more good times in the years to come!
~Lollie & Lara
DOM PERRIGNON TA x MS Bette Midler | 2021 HA Gelding Owned by Hagale Family Arabians OFF THE RICHTER LM x Boston Blues | 2021 HA Filly Owned by Represent Equine LLC SHOCS CADENZA DEH x SV Starlite +/ | 2022 PB Colt Owned by Scion Arabians
THANK YOU TO ALL BREEDERS SELECTING SF AFTERSHOC+ FOR YOUR NEXT GENERATION! SF Specs Shocwave x SF Sweet Elegance | Multi-Program Nominated Sire Proudly owned by Hagale Family Arabians | Contact Jen Wilson 602.616.6672 | jen@hagalefamilyarabians.com www.HagaleFamilyArabians.com | Follow us on social @hagalefamilyarabians