Equestrian Magazine Winter 2023

Welcome Letter

Our Ever-Evolving Equestrian World

Just as the start of a new year is naturally a time to look forward with high hopes for what’s to come, it is also an occasion to reflect on the past with (one hopes!) gratitude and perhaps a measure of newfound wisdom.

So it is with this new issue of Douglas Elliman Equestrian. The pages ahead not only feature forward-looking stories about the state of equestrian sports and culture; they also include an illuminating look back.

In “The Evolution of Equestrian Sports: 110 Years of History” (page 6), we reflect on how far the sport has come since the 1912 Stockholm Olympic Games, the first in which riders received medals. As chronicled beautifully by Marie de Pellegars-Malhortie and Benoit Capdebarthe in their landmark book, An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports, the world of competitive dressage, jumping, and eventing has been at the forefront of gender equity and remains “the only sport in which men and women compete on equal footing.”

The story provides an apt bookend to the one that follows on the facing page, “The Future of Helgstrand Dressage USA” (page 7), in which the newly appointed general manager, Lars Petersen, discusses Andreas Helgstrand’s “vision of making Wellington like nothing the horse world has seen.”

Elsewhere in the book, two stories highlight new trends in the equestrian world focused on improving the well-being of both rider and horse.

In “Beyond the Saddle: Full-Body Equestrian Fitness,” we explore Equibody, an innovative approach to conditioning developed by dressage rider Jack LaTorre. More holistic than traditional fitness regimens, Equibody was conceived by LaTorre to be “a roadmap for riders to improve their flexibility, mobility, and muscle tone” through a focus on “structural balance that works towards full range of motion in every muscle and every joint.”

For “The Cutting Edge of Equestrian Architecture,” we checked in with Maria Mendelsohn and Martha Jolicoeur, two of Douglas Elliman’s leading equestrian property agents, on the latest in modern horse-barn design. With their emphasis on open, airy spaces that fill with natural light and “horsecentric” design that enables our equine friends to enjoy a more comfortable and sociable home life, these trends speak to the vitality of an ever-evolving equestrian culture.

Indeed, as we begin the 2023 equestrian season in Florida (where Douglas Elliman is proud to return as a sponsor of the Global Dressage Festival)—amid a market offering magnificent properties that just may be in your future—there is much about the interconnecting worlds of equestrian sports and real estate to look forward to in the year ahead. Happy riding!

The Next Move Is Yours.

Scott Durkin Chief Executive Officer

THE CUTTING EDGE OF EQUESTRIAN ARCHITECTURE

BY HANNAH WARNE

Long gone are the days of bright red barns with rustic, dark, wooden interiors. Today’s designs are instead reimagining both barn interiors and architecture to create something totally new. Two of Douglas Elliman’s premiere equestrian property agents based in Wellington, Florida—an epicenter of the international equestrian community—weigh in on emerging barn architecture trends.

OPEN, AIRY SPACES

Unlike traditional barns that usually feature dark wood and low ceilings, new barn design instead prioritizes natural light. Fewer haylofts, taller ceilings, and the addition of impact windows and skylights are now the preferred design style, said Maria Mendelsohn. “It’s all about light, bright, and airy spaces with good airflow and ventilation,” she said. “A lot of people are even starting to use clear exterior shutters, so there’s light even when they’re closed.”

Martha Jolicoeur has noticed similar trends. “Arched and peaked ceilings are becoming more popular because they allow for more light. This creates a bright and airy space that’s more visually appealing—but also practical.”

This openness also extends to the stalls. When you enter a modern barn, the stalls are often so open that you can see every horse from the entry. Stalls that allow the horses to look out in both directions are also becoming increasingly popular. That way, both horses and humans can enjoy a more open, airy barn.

“

It’s all about light, bright, and airy spaces with good airflow”

– Maria Mendelsohn

AN EMPHASIS ON ORGANIZATION

Historically, equipment in barns has been stored in the aisleways and wherever there was room, which led to a messy and cluttered space. Today’s barns, however, are thinking through more practical storage options that allow for added organization and efficiency.

Instead of multipurpose storage rooms, each room now has a specific function. Laundry rooms, feed rooms, office spaces, and tack rooms are becoming separate areas—instead of all rolled into one. “Dedicated client locker rooms or cabinets also help to elevate the entire experience for everyone,” Mendelsohn added.

HORSE-CENTRIC DESIGN

“Above all, you want a barn to be horse-friendly,” said Jolicoeur. Many of the emerging trends aren’t just aesthetic decisions, but practical ones to increase the horses’ comfort. Extra-wide aisles allow the horses to more easily pass, and added details like a non-slip finish help ensure the horses’ safety.

While the open stalls help create an airy feel in the barn, they also allow the horses to be more social. “With larger, open stalls, the horses can see each other and interact. It makes their lives better,” said Mendelsohn.

THE

OF 110 YEARS OF EQUESTRIHISTORYAN SPORTS:

By Jacqueline Kuron

he masterful book An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports by Marie de Pellegars-Malhortie and Benoit Capdebarthes chronicles in meticulous detail the history of equestrian sport, from the Stockholm Olympic Games in 1912 to the FEI World Equestrian Games in 2018. Equestrians, history lovers, and anyone who appreciates horses will find this book an elegant and worthwhile addition to their bookshelf or coffee table. From the beautiful images to the well-researched accounts of major equestrian events and recognition and celebration of the athletes who helped shape the sport, the book allows for both browsing and getting lost in the story.

From the earliest show-jumping contests in Dublin in 1865, interest in horse riding as competition increased as plans were made for the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports begins at the 1912 Stockholm Olympic Games, the first Games in which riders received medals.

The stories and anecdotes in An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports reveal how far equestrian sports have come in the last 110 years. In the earliest days, only military officers could participate in horse riding competitions. One revolutionary moment was the inclusion of women in dressage in the 1952 Olympics, competing on completely equal footing as men. Danish rider Lis Hartel took part with her horse Jubilee and

won a silver medal. In 1956, women could compete in jumping and in 1964 women were allowed to compete in eventing in the Olympics. Horse riding is still the only sport in which men and women compete on equal footing, setting the example of gender equality in sports.

By recounting unforgettable moments in equestrian sports and the riders who gave them to us, An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports reinforces that the riders and horses of tomorrow will uphold the fighting spirit and immense talent of their predecessors, continuing the legacy and advancement of the sport.

An Illustrated History of Equestrian Sports (Flammarion, 2019 by Marie de Pellegars; Benoit Capdebarthes, in collaboration with the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI)

The Future of Helgstrand Dressage USA

By JACQUELINE KURON

Lars Petersen and his wife Melissa Taylor left their successful horse training and sales business, Legacy Farms, in April 2022 to join Helgstrand Dressage USA as General Manager and Assistant General Manager, respectively. “It was a huge opportunity to commit to a successful and growing corporation. Andreas Helgstrand has a vision of making Wellington like nothing the horse world has seen and we are thrilled to be a part of that,” said Petersen. After a few months on the job, Petersen fills us in on how it’s going.

What are your goals for Helgstrand Dressage USA?

Right now, we’re adding 30 more stalls to the facility, so we will have about 85 stalls total. We’re trying to turn it into a premier, year-round training, sales, and education operation. Kind of a one-stop shop.

Could you take us through a typical day?

We start early, around 5:30-6:00 AM. I do a lot of the riding and selling and Melissa does the emails, phone calls, makes sure the staff is happy, and everything is organized. Then a lot of the day is spent riding, training, teaching, and managing. We love what we do, so it’s not just work, we also enjoy it.

How would you describe your training style?

My style is the old German, Scandinavian classical style where the basics are most important. Out of the basics come the movements and that hopefully makes them last for many years.

What are the most rewarding and most challenging parts of your job?

The most rewarding is when you’re training a horse and realize you're getting somewhere, and then a client rides the horse and it goes well. The fun part is making the horses so everybody can ride them; but that’s also the challenge.

Are you looking forward to the Global Dressage Festival this January?

Yes, I think it'll be a big year. It seems like there will be a lot of people coming, so it's always exciting. And we have a lot of students and horses competing.

Photography by Lisa Campbell

The last vestige of untouched farmland nestled in the heart of Bridgehampton horse and farm country. Surrounded by 600 acres of reserve land, this one-of-a-kind property offers open vistas and spectacularly colored hues at sunrise and sunset. The 18.86-acre parcel has been cared for and harvested by local Bridgehampton farmers for over 100 years. Now, it is being offered as a once-in-a-century opportunity to create a custom compound for generations to come; a blank canvas with endless potential.

Price: $21,900,000 I Listing ID: H365002

Paul Brennan

Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 631.537.4144 | m 631.235.9611 paul.brennan@elliman.com

Martha Gundersen

Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 631.537.4144 | m 631.405.8436 martha.gundersen@ellliman.com

In the heart of historic Sagaponack, this authentic 2-acre compound 0.6 miles from the ocean consists of a meticulously maintai ned farmhouse along with 4 additional pre-existing, non-conforming outbuildings, offering boundless opportunity. The renovated farmhouse offers 4 bedrooms, 2 full and 1 half bathrooms. There is an additional 2-bedroom guest cottage, an artist studio, and 2 barns, one with an international squa sh court and gym. Steeped in history, the buildings predate zoning, offering limitless potential for residential use.

Price: $12,000,000 I Listing ID: H364966

Martha Gundersen Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 631.537.4144 | m 631.405.8436 martha.gundersen@ellliman.com

Paul Brennan Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 631.537.4144 | m 631.235.9611 paul.brennan@elliman.com

MONTAUK

This 2.1-acre lot includes a large barn/riding arena and 5.9 acres of agricultural preserve. With captivating views of Montauk's dreamy waterside, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Whether it be a beautiful new estate, riding horses with loved ones, or harvesting your own food to serve at dinner parties; there truly are no bounds to what is possible. Just minutes away from Gin Beach, Ditch Plains and the Montuak Lake Club.

Price: $5,900,000 I Listing ID: H367817

Justin Agnello Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 631.267.7334 | m 585.260.5620 justin.agnello@elliman.com

William Gold Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 631.329.9400 | m 516.361.6890 william.gold@elliman.com

James Keogh Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 631.267.7341 | m 631.241.1459 james.keogh@elliman.com

Mickey Conlon Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 212.350.8009 | m 917.224.7177 mickey.conlon@elliman.com

Lisa Poggi Broker of Record o 201.721.8610 lisa.poggi@elliman.com

375 HOOK ROAD

KATONAH

Custom-built, shingle-style home with meticulous detailing throughout. Location, location, location, privacy and quiet. Direct access to the renowned Bedford trail system, Caramoor Music Festival, farmers markets and the most charming of all the Bedford hamlets—only an hour fr om New York City. The home offers the choice of first or second floor primary bedrooms, exquisitely designed en suite bathrooms, formal gardens a nd a 30-foot x 50-foot pool with pool house. A car enthusiast's dream, there are garages for up to 13 cars with an indoor car wash. A caretaker’s cottage and barn complete the 12-acre estate. An estate built for a lifestyle incorporating fun, work, hobbies and entertaining. Price: $5,500,000 I Listing ID: H6160383

Amazing, approx. 16,500sf facility with 24-stall barn, ideal for disciplines ranging from dressage to hunter/jumper with room f or a covered arena. Immaculately landscaped, the lush property also offers multiple paddocks. Additional equestrian features include a 6-horse walker as well as a hurricanetested, all-weather 160-foot x 240-foot riding arena.   Price: $15,900,000 I Listing ID: A11278943

Indian Creek Farm is a 164-acre equestrian estate established in the mid-1800s by the Scheel Family and is the proud home of 2 national champion horses, 'On Cue' and 'Tsetserleg'. The 3-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home overlooks manicured pastures. The original barn includes an office, laundry area, 4-car garage, 9 stalls for horses and an attached large feed room. There are 2 additional barns with 6 stalls and 3 stalls respectively, and a pool and cabana with an outdoor kitchen. Additional homes on the property include the 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom Kabelmacher House, which was built in 1887 and retains its historic designation on the national register. One corner of the farm is 95 acres of raw land approved for 40 one-acre homesites and 30 acres of commercial property facing Highway 46. In total the property has 10 wells.

BASALT

This incredible equestrian ranch is nestled below Mount Sopris on over 35 beautiful acres. The perfectly maintained log home features main-level living with an open floor plan, a grand fireplace, vaulted ceilings, 3 en suite bedrooms and endless mountain views. The stunner also boasts a new, 2-level, wraparound patio with fire pit, theatre room with seating for 6, large mudroom, wine cellar, 3-car garage and a master wing with a jetted tub and steam shower. Complete with A/C and new pond with a dock. Price: $9,925,000 I Listing ID: 175659 Mary Kate Farrell Broker Associate o 970.923.4700 | m 973.987.7090 marykate.farrell@elliman.com

This ultra-luxurious Upper Ojai equestrian estate sits upon approx. 11 acres and boasts stunning views of both the Topa Topa mountains and the opposing mountain range that captures the entirety of Ojai's picturesque landscape. This exceptional and vast property is incredibly pri vate, and the quality and character of the modern, ranch-style structures make it even more distinctive. The grounds include a 4-stall breezeway barn and full equestrian riding area. Price: $6,795,000 I Listing ID: 22-3522

SANTA YNEZ

Welcome to Rancho Cielo Vista! The sleek spaces and glass doors of this contemporary farmhouse open to dramatic views of the Coastal Mountain Range and a charming duck pond. For the equine enthusiast, a newly renovated barn hosts 2 apartments and 3 stalls. Each stall has a turn-ou t and there is an arena and 3 pastures. Equestrian enthusiasts will enjoy miles of protected riding trails that wind their way through an oak woodland savannah. Price: $6,295,000 I Listing ID: 22-212009

Josh Altman Realtor o 323.610.0231 joshua.altman@elliman.com

Matt Altman Realtor o 310.819.3250 matthew.altman@elliman.com

FULL-BODY EQUESTRIAN FITNESS

By HANNAH WARNE

After over a decade of dressage riding, Jack LaTorre was preparing to compete in the 2021 Grand Prix. But a few weeks before the competition, something unexpected happened: His muscles became so tight in the saddle that he couldn’t compete. Thanks to a background in full-body fitness, LaTorre began restructuring his fitness routine and using it to help his body be able to ride better.

specifically on structural balance that works towards full range of motion in every muscle and every joint.”

While most riders focus on hitting certain milestones in the saddle, LaTorre’s program instead helps address common problem areas outside of the saddle by balancing the quadrants of the body.

“I got so tight in my hips and legs that I couldn’t physically do what needed to be done to ride. About a month out from the competition, I wrote a new workout routine that changed everything,” LaTorre explained. “My flexibility improved so much that I even lowered my stirrups and was able to compete.” Using his own personal experience, LaTorre founded Equibody to help other riders approach their riding and fitness in a more holistic way. Instead of only striving for achievements in the saddle, Equibody provides a roadmap for riders to improve their flexibility, mobility, and muscle tone to increase their range of motion, creating soft muscles in the saddle.

“The whole structure of the Equibody Fitness workout is designed to help riders ride better—not just to get in shape,” LaTorre said. “Tightness is what plagues most riders, and Equibody focuses

Equibody is also designed to be customizable for riders of all ages, skill levels, and fitness levels. When a new client signs up, they first complete an online course custom-designed by LaTorre to help them understand the theory behind the workouts. From there, clients have a guided digital workout experience that can be adjusted to suit their individual fitness levels and overall goals. The app-guided workouts allow clients to record themselves completing the workouts so that LaTorre can give personalized feedback to help them progress even faster.

While LaTorre is based out of Florida and North Carolina, he has clients all over the world who are seeing results. Most riders begin to feel looser and more toned within just three weeks and many can expect to see a drastic improvement in just three months.

“If it’s just working out, it’s not worth it for riders,” LaTorre said. “They don’t just want to work out—they want to ride better. When there's an imbalance of strength between muscles and muscle groups, the stronger muscles will pull on the weaker ones and create tightness,” LaTorre explained. “Stretching is a huge component, but we also have to strengthen that weaker muscle."

To learn more about Equibody Fitness, visit their website at equibodyfitness.com or follow along on Instagram @jack.equibody.fitness.

“Equibody provides a roadmap for riders to improve their flexibilty, mobility, and muscle tone”

The Land Is Calling You Home

Freedom. Independence. Room to roam. With guidance from agents who specialize in farm and ranch real estate, the virtues of living far away from it all may be closer than you think. #FarmAndRanch