///////// MEMBER ROUNDUP
NOTABLE NON PRO Sylvia Bate prioritizes longevity in her reined cow horses while she enjoys competing in European events. By Abigail Boatwright
S
After being mentored by Jake Gorrell of California, he began training reined cow horses. “I am a pure cow horse rider now, and we also do the versatility because
I think it’s really good for the horse’s mind,” Sattler said. Sattler introduced Bate to cow horse. She was instantly intrigued and immediately switched to the event. COURTESY OF SYLVIA BATE
ylvia Bate pushes a cow out from a pen aboard her chestnut mare Justa Shiningsparkle (Sharp Dressed Shiner x Justa Little Slipper x Slip Down Lena), and begins to work the bovine in her arena near the barn and upstairs apartment that she shares with her partner, trainer Patrick Sattler. The setup is organized and efficient and could be mistaken for a small ranch in the United States. Their home in Sinsheim, Germany, however, has more ancient castles than the average American ranch. Whether they’re speaking German or English, this couple is serious about reined cow horse, and they’ve built a life around that passion. Bate did not come from a horse family, but about 30 years ago when she was in her 20s, she discovered horses and began trail riding in the nearby countryside. Her friend rode jumpers, so she dove into the English style of riding. She particularly enjoyed crosscountry—a three-discipline event where horse-and-rider teams do dressage, cross-country courses and show jumping. Variety is the spice of life, and Bate thrives on it.
GERMAN ENGINEERING
In the early 2000s, Bate met Sattler at the barn where she was riding. Sattler used to be a professional motocross rider before he discovered reining horses.
40 MAY/JUNE 2021 | REINED COW HORSE NEWS
Sylvia Bate loves the versatility of reined cow horse. She’s riding Justa Little Slipper here.
