Horse & Style Magazine January/February 2017

JAN/FEB

Most Intriguing Equestrians of 2016 The

S T Y L E R I D E R : M AV I S S P E N C E R NEW PRODUCT ALERT : C.S. SIMKO OUT

&

ABOUT:

THE

O LY M P I A H O R S E S H OW

BUC KET LIST: LONGINES MASTERS

OF

PA R I S

2017

DINING OUT: THE RED FOX

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Presents the: SERIES

of the

Midwest

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER SHOWS WEC Fall Show II........................................ Nov. 30 – Dec. 4, 2016

WEC Winter Classic III ............................... Feb. 15 – Feb. 19, 2017

Wilmington Winter Show .......................... Dec. 7 – Dec. 11, 2016

WEC Winter Classic IV .............................. Mar. 8 – Mar. 12, 2017

Wilmington Winter Classic ....................... Dec. 28 – Jan. 1, 2017

WEC Winter Classic V............................... Mar. 15 – Mar. 19, 2017

WEC New Year Show ............................... Jan. 4 – Jan. 8, 2017

WEC Winter Finale .................................... Apr. 5 – Apr. 9, 2017

WEC Winter Classic I ................................ Jan. 11 – Jan. 15, 2017

Wilmington Spring Classic ....................... Apr. 26 – Apr. 30, 2017

WEC Winter Classic II* .............................. Jan. 18 – Jan. 21, 2017

Prize Lists Now Available at www.horseshowing.com USEF Premier and *USEF National Shows, Jumper Level 4

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Perfect

Indoor

All Year

Conditions

Perfect

Indoor

Conditions

Al l Ye ar

COUNTRY HEIR

WILMINGTON SHOWS

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Jan. 25 – Jan. 29, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Mar. 22 – Mar. 26, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Feb. 1 – Feb. 5, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington* ........................ Mar. 29 – Apr. 2, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Feb. 8 – Feb. 12, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington* ........................ Apr. 12 – Apr. 15, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Feb. 22 – Feb. 26, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Apr. 19 – Apr. 23, 2017

Country Heir Wilmington.......................... Mar. 1 – Mar. 5, 2017

Offering $100,000 in Prize Money for each "AA" event!

Offering $65,000 in Prize Money for each "A" event!

Photo courtesy of Tracy Emanuel Photography

Quality. Class. Distinction. www.wec.net Wilmington, Ohio

CONGRATULATIONS TO

RANSOME ROMBAUER

FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY JUNIOR RIDING CAREER, THE BEAUTIFUL YOUNG LADY YOU HAVE BECOME AND YOUR BRIGHT FUTURE AT SMU! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU! PONY UP!!!

LOVE, MOM AND DAD DANIEL & SUSAN IGHANI · JUMPERS, EQUITATION AND DRESSAGE

INFO@IGHANISPORTHORSES.COM - (760) 936-2062 – NAPA VALLEY, CA photo ©Shawn McMillian

THANKS AND APPRECIATION TO

DANIEL IGHANI AND KAREN HEALEY

FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT, GUIDANCE AND HORSEMANSHIP

SPECIAL THANKS TO TASHA VISOKAY , THE GRAVES FAMILY AND JANIE ANDREW RANSOME ROMBAUER THE ROMBAUER FAMILY DANIEL & SUSAN IGHANI · JUMPERS, EQUITATION AND DRESSAGE

INFO@IGHANISPORTHORSES.COM - (760) 936-2062 – NAPA VALLEY, CA photo ©Shawn McMillian

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50 27 THELWELL: IT’S A PONY-MAD WORLD This year marks the 60th anniversary of Norman Thelwell’s book, Angels on Horseback, providing the perfect opportunity to reflect on the artist and his wonderful cartoon pony drawings that have touched so many lives, equestrian and non-equestrian alike.

32 H&S

HOME: A KENTUCKY-INSPIRED CALIFORNIA RANCH In this drool-worthy first installment of “Horse & Style Home,” contributor Alli Addison graciously opens the doors to her central California, Kentucky-inspired ranch house and shares with us all the details, big and small, that went into crafting this incredible estate.

39 BEHIND

THE SEAMS: MINI BRITC HES

Horse & Style publisher Sarah Appel shares the story and inspiration behind Mini Britches, an infant and toddler clothing line she and friend Carlie DeCesare founded in 2013. These ‘mompreneurs’ give details about their products and about how they manage to balance life, kids and work.

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MOST INTRIGUING EQUESTRIANS Every year Horse & Style picks a handful of people who are making an impact on the equestrian world – whether it be as a rider, business owner, or entrepreneur – and shares their stories.This year we applaud and honor Lauren Hough, Murray Kessler, John French, Lucy Davis, Nick Skelton and Noel Asmar as inspiring and intriguing equestrians.

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HORSE SHOW BUCKET LIST: LONGINES MASTERS OF PARIS

The Longines Masters of Paris was long overdue for a spot on Horse & Style’s horse show bucket list, because so many aspects of this competition – its proximity to downtown Paris, the enthusiastic fans, top international competition and Salon Du Cheval’s shopping and entertainment – make it worthy of the honor.

87 CURATED

BY AN EQUESTRIAN: ELIZABETH WILEY Horse & Style’s first addition of the new regular column,“Curated by an Equestrian,” showcases the abstract equestrian art of Elizabeth Wiley. Learn about her story and take a peek at the pieces that would look beautiful in any equestrian home or office.

11 | FROM

THE PUBLISHER

THINGS

Sean Lynch

14 | OUT

& ABOUT

16 | PRO

POP QUIZ

18 | ST YLE

RIDER

Mavis Spencer

20 | OUT

& ABOUT

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

22 | NEW

PRODUCT ALERT

C.S. Simko

january / february

Sarah Appel sarah@horseandstylemag.com

CP National Horse Show

P U B L I S H E R & E D I TO R -I N-C HIE F

44 | OUT

& ABOUT

Las Vegas National Horse Show

E D I TO R

Emily Pollard A RT D I R E C TOR

Danielle Demers E D I TO R I A L CO N S U LTAN T

Jackie McFarland A DV E RT I S I N G & SA LE S

Katie Appel & Shannon Wright katie@horseandstylemag.com shannon@horseandstylemag.com

CO P Y E D I TOR

46 | FEATURE

Pam Maley

Exotic Doha Hosts Fabulous Finales

48 | LIFE

OF BARBE

60 | OUT

& ABOUT

Finding Your Joy

HITS Sunshine Series

62 | ST YLE PROFILES Technically Speaking

64 | OUT

& ABOUT

West Palm Events – Paso Robles

72 | OUT

& ABOUT

Longines Masters of Paris

74 | TREND

REPORT

Pardon my Plum

76 | DINING

OUT

The Red Fox Inn & Tavern

80 | FEATURE

Victoria Lowell

84 | OUT

& ABOUT

The Olympia Horse Show

91 | ASK

DR. CARRIE

92 | BEHIND

CO N T R I B U TO R S

Alli Addison, Jackie McFarland, Laurie Berglie, Pam Maley, Nina Vogel, Kelsey Langsdale, Jennifer Wood, Jeanette Gilbert, Jana Cohen Barbe, Terri Roberson Psy.D., Dr. Carrie Wicks, P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Ashley Neuhof, Tiffany Van Halle, Jenna R. Dana, Alden Corrigan, Sarah Appel, Taylor Rea, Christopher Demers, ESI Photography, Jump Media, Taylor Renner & Annan Hepner for Phelps Media Group, Diana De Rosa, PSV Photos, Stefano Grasso/LGCT, Shawn McMillen, Ben Radvanyi Photography, Amy McCool, Genevieve Leiper Photography, Duane Heaton, Laura Luís Photography, Kate Houlihan, Alicia Cervenka, Jeff Rogers, Michael & Elizabeth Wiley P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA ON THE COVER: Portrait of Lucy Davis; one of Horse & Style’s Most Intriguing Equestrians of 2016, photo © Ashley Neuhof Horse & Style Magazine is an equestrian lifestyle publication that is published bi-monthly and available at participating tack shops nationwide for $10, and while supplies last at large training centers and hunter jumper horse shows. The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is legally prohibited. Copyright © 2017 Horse & Style Magazine LLC. TM

THE LENS

Tiffany Van Halle

94 | BUSINESS 96 | CAN

INTERN

Kelsey Langsdale

LISTINGS

YOU STAND IT? AH

Believe in Burgundy

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© 2017 HORSE & STYLE MAGAZINE

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contents

Inspired Balance

AR D WIN

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contributors

Emily Pollard

Jackie McFarland

Danielle Demers

Pam Maley

Emily Pollard uses her BA in English from Saint Mary’s College of California to teach, write, and edit.

She has worked in the equestrian industry for the majority of her life, as a groom, assistant trainer, barn manager, and everything in between. She trained and competed her horse, Skyler Ace, to the FEI level. She now enjoys sharing her passion for horses with her husband and two young daughters.

Jackie and Duncan McFarland own EqSol, a marketing solutions company. After spending a decade in Southern California, they moved to Lexington, Kentucky five years ago and are amazed how time flies. The EqSol Team has grown, now reaching from CA to the UK, with new exciting projects knocking at the door.

A lifelong equestrian, Danielle Demers has always been inspired by horses. After graduating with a BFA in Painting, she worked to find a way to combine her passions for art, design, and the equestrian lifestyle. As a member of the EqSol Creative team since 2013, her interests have been melded together more perfectly than she could have imagined.

An avid former foxhunter, Pam knows well that special bond between horse and rider. With her husband she was co-owner of Dunford Farm, a Thoroughbred farm in Lexington, Kentucky, where she was involved in every aspect of the horses’ lives. Her journey with horses continues as a member of the EqSol Team.

Alli Addison

Laurie Berglie

Jeanette Gilbert

Terri Roberson, Psy.D.

Laurie Berglie was born, raised, and currently resides in Maryland. She enjoys renovating her fixer-upper farm, reading horse books, and training and competing her two OTTBs, Misty, her wild mare, and Bailey, her easygoing gelding. Laurie began her blog, “Maryland Equestrian,” an Equestrian Lifestyle Guide, in 2011. She has a BA in English from Stevenson University and an MA in Humanities from Towson University.

Jeannette owns and operates Jaz Creek, Inc. in Petaluma, CA. Offering rehabilitation, retirement and breeding services, Jeanette is intimately familiar with the 24/7 equine lifestyle, but wouldn’t change it. The Jaz Creek breeding program is now in its 9th year and Jeanette is proudly competing and selling her young future stars.

A licensed clinical psychologist, Terri Roberson combines her passion for horses with her clinical work in equine-assisted psychotherapy. She currently sits on the board of Giant Steps Therapeutic Equestrian Center.

Over 25 years on the show circuit has given her an eye for equestrian style and provides constant inspiration for her frequent contributions to H&S.

Kelsey Langsdale

Jennifer Wood

Jana Cohen Barbe

Nina Vogel

Kelsey competed in her first horse show while attending UC Davis for Political Science. After completing her degree, she turned her back on politics and headed to the barn.

She has worked as an assistant for Dressage and H/J trainers in CA. This fall, she started an internship with Horse & Style Magazine and has enjoyed blending her love of horses and writing, and experiencing the best in international show jumping.

Jennifer Wood is a lifelong horse person. She worked for Olympic show jumpers Anne Kursinski and Margie Engle before entering the public relations field in 2004.

She has since covered World Cup Finals, World Equestrian Games, and Olympic Games. Wood promotes some of the best equestrian events and companies in North America through Jennifer Wood Media and Jump Media.

Jana is a Partner and Global Vice Chair of Dentons, the largest law firm in the world. A foremost authority in real estate law and business management, Jana is a frequent author and speaker on leadership, crisis management, the role of women in business and professional advancement. An avid equestrian who owns a working farm in Kentucky, Jana examines the interplay between business and riding.

Nina wrapped up a successful junior career last year and has since been traveling in Central America and continuing to ride before heading to Dartmouth College in the fall.

She was editor-in-chief of her high school newspaper and always enjoyed the challenge of balancing schoolwork and riding. Now, as a member of the EqSol team, she is happily furthering her journalistic experience in a world she loves.

Alli was born, raised and still lives on a ranch that has been in her family since 1837, located north of Santa Barbara, CA. Alli holds a BS and MS in Business Marketing from California Polytechnic State University. A lifelong equestrian, she has a passion for riding hunter/jumpers, loves art and the equestrian lifestyle. Alli also enjoys spending time with her husband and children.

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F R O M the

publisher

Inspired Balance

Happy New Year! As Horse & Style kicks off 2017, the new year offers a chance to reflect on the past, and I am once again humbled by the love and support I continually receive from my friends, family and the equestrian community.

While 2016 had its ups and downs – both in and out of the equestrian world – right now, I find I am most grateful for the inspiring women in my life. My mother, Terri Roberson, who had the challenging task of raising me while working full-time, is now Horse & Style’s #1 fan and an integral H&S contributor. She is such an inspiration!

Truth be told, the entire H&S team is inspirational.We are like-minded women who work hard to balance full careers with rich family lives.

But most importantly, we all strive to support each other and to be kind human beings. Being a working parent is never easy, but having been inspired by my mom, I know first hand the importance of demonstrating for my daughters what a healthy work/life balance looks like.

Speaking of inspirations, in this issue we bring you “H&S’s Most Intriguing Equestrians of 2016.” This cover story honors six equestrians who have not only experienced an epic year, but who are actively making a difference in our sport. From the show ring to the fashion industry to the boardroom, these equestrians touched our lives in 2016 (pg. 50).

In addition to being the owner/publisher of Horse & Style, I am also the co-founder of Mini Britches, an equestrian-inspired baby and toddler clothing line made in San Francisco. What started as an idea with a friend, co-founder Carlie DeCesare, turned into a successful clothing business and solidified our “mompreneur” titles. Find out more about Mini Britches on page 39.

We are beyond excited to introduce a new column: “Horse & Style Home.” In this issue’s premiere article, Laurie Berglie interviewed H&S’s own Alli Addison about her Kentucky-inspired California ranch home. Her exquisite house was captured in amazing photos by Taylor Rea and is truly is the epitome of all things equestrian style (pg. 32).

2016 was filled with travel, with my final trip of the year being to the Longines Masters of Paris. I was lucky to have our editor Emily Pollard on the journey with me, as well as photographer Ashley Neuhof and contributing writer and friend Jeanette Gilbert. The four of us had an epic adventure at an incredible horse show. The Longines Masters of Paris should be at the top of your “Horse Show Bucket List” (pg. 66).

A family of equestrians: Sarah, mother Terri Roberson, daughters Piper & Ella and their beloved pony Sweetie! PC: Alicia Cervenka

We want to offer our congratulations to our Nov/Dec cover rider and friend of H&S, Daniel Deusser, on becoming ranked World #1 in the Longines FEI rankings. After personally witnessing many of the Stephex Stables team's victories this year, we are so thrilled by their numerous successes. Anyone who knows Daniel Deusser also knows his head groom, Sean Lynch. Lynch’s dedication to Deusser’s horses is incredibly inspiring, and we were able to learn more about him in this issue’s “10 Things” (pg. 13).

My New Year’s resolution is to continue to search for balance between my family life and career, and to help empower other women with their own entrepreneurial goals. Hopefully I can be an inspiration too!

Left: H&S Nov/Dec; Right: Team H&S selfie with Daniel Deusser at the Longines Masters of Los Angeles last fall

Cheers to a great 2017!

january/february ·

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10

things

by Emily Pollard

…you might not know about…

Sean

Lynch For this issue’s 10 Things, Horse & Style would like to show some appreciation for the extremely hardworking grooms!

In particular, Sean Lynch, who has been an integral part of Daniel Deusser’s team during his incredible streak of success with Stephex Stables.With Deusser, Lynch has been able to accomplish many of his professional goals, including attending the World Cup™ Finals and the Summer Olympics in Rio. Lynch has also experienced the excitement, and pressure, of being on the team of a number one ranked rider when Deusser held that spot in spring of 2015.

Despite all of the success, Lynch has an incredible way of staying grounded. He explains: “Success sure doesn’t change your work load.Whether the horses have five rails down, or win the Grand Prix, they all still get the same care and attention as normal!”With that attitude, and his hard work ethic, there is no doubt Lynch will get to accomplish his new career goals: to attend the Europeans, and the World Equestrian Games. And of course, as he emphatically says, “to be number one in the world again would be a dream!”

1.

His favorite horse is First Class because of his one-ofa-kind character. “He can have a determined attitude, just as I can! It is probably why we get along.”

2.

At age fifteen, Lynch experienced a bad riding accident with a young horse that scared him off riding a bit, and actually encouraged his switch to grooming, which he says he enjoys because “I get to stay on the ground!”

3.

Lynch says the best part of his job is getting to see the hard work and sleepless nights pay off in such an exciting way.

4.

Lynch started grooming at a young age, for British riders John and Laura Renwick, when he was in training with his pony at their barn.

5.

Travel, travel and more travel! Of all the amazing places Lynch has been, the Miami Global Tour tops the list because, as he explains, “It’s insane! Where else can you go to a horse show on the beach?!”

Photo © Tiffany Van Halle

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Runners-up for his favorite travel destinations are Cannes and St. Tropez, which he said are both incredible horse shows.

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London is home, but Lynch did spend some time in the United States working for Brianne Goutal on the east coast.

8.

Hazardous work conditions…his most recent injury is from unhitching a trailer a few years ago. The hitch dropped unexpectedly and the pole went through his leg.

9.

Lynch has a very professional relationship with Deusser, and he knows how to keep him happy: he always has some Haribo candy to offer him as a snack.

10.

Lynch does get to ride a bit; sometimes Deusser asks him to ride the horses on the first day of a competition, to settle them in.

january/february ·

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about

CP NATIONAL HORSE SHOW – LEXINGTON , KENTUC KY

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1. Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual perform with polish 2. Welcome to Horse & Style's VIP suite 3. Vests to suit every barn color from Just Over The Top 4. A view from above of the spacious and climate-controlled indoor arena 5. Hunter Holloway wins the prestigious ASPCA Maclay Finals on C'est La Vie, who was a last minute substitute when her horse had a fever. Trainer Don Stewart gives her a congratulatory hug and kiss 6. Amateur rider Kristen Schnelle’s gorgeous mare Calena 7. The indoor concourse is a great place to shop for everything equine. One great option was behind this sign. From accessories to wraps, Hunt Ltd offered a chic and stylish selection

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Photos © Taylor Renner & Annan Hepner of Phelps Media Group, Ashley Neuhof (5,9), EqSol (2)

8.

Taylor Harris National Children’s Medal CP National Horse Show American Gold Cup North American Riders Group Pin Oak Charity Horse Show

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8. From tallest to smallest, the ASPCA Maclay Finals Top 3: TJ O'Mara (2nd), Hunter Holloway (1st), Taylor St. Jacques (3rd) 9. Kent Farrington and Voyeur victorious in the $250,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Lexington CSI4*-W for the second year in a row

Upperville colt & horse show Capital Challenge Horse Show Blenheim Equisports Brandywine Summer Series Plantation Field Horse Trials Live Oak international palm beach Masters Great Lakes Equestrian Festival great meadow international Jersey Fresh international three-day event Photography: Renea Hutchings

P R O pop

quiz

THIS MONTH’S QUESTION:

How can the United States bring the ‘soul’ of European show jumping, as seen by the packed, dedicated and energetic crowds, to the United States arena? What can the U.S. do better to encourage the sport of show jumping?

Each issue, a new question is answered by hunter/jumper professionals. Have a question you want answered? Send it to sarah@horseandstylemag.com

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· january/february

Christophe Ameeuw stands for a picture at this year’s Longines Masters of Los Angeles with Longines Vice President Charles Villoz, the winners of the Longines Grand Prix CSI5* Nayel Nassar (EGY), Daniel Deusser (GER), Harrie Smolders (NED), and his wife, Fernanda Ameeuw

“ESPN named show jumping ‘The Next Big USA Sport,’ so there is wide recognition that the sport is rapidly growing in the United States. However, we as horse show developers and fans still have a responsibility to help the sport grow and truly flourish in the United States.

The first step is to ‘wow’ spectators with the highest level of international competition possible. Bringing the best riders together from around the world for events such as the Longines Masters of Los Angeles showcases the speed and agility of our sport and helps to educate audiences and grow an American fan base.

While entertaining spectators with the top level of competition is important, investing in the next generation of up-and-coming American riders will encourage U.S. fans to watch riders grow within the sport. This in turn develops personal interests and connections to the riders for years to come, and develops a fan base with depth.

And finally, U.S. spectators become even more invested when they can root for their country in international competitions such as the Olympics, the World Equestrian Games and the brand new American-European duel, the Masters Riders Cup, which adds an additional element of suspense and engagement and keeps show jumping competitive with other exciting sports.”

— CHRISTOPHE AMEEUW Founder and CEO of EEM, Creators of the Longines Masters Series

Photo © RBpresse-J.Rodrigues

STYLE

rider

by Jackie McFarland

Mavis Spencer

O

n or off a horse, Mavis Spencer exudes style. Her effortless approach to beauty is that she doesn’t think about it much. Strong-minded and willful, Spencer is passionate about horses, caring deeply for their well-being and happily spending hours at the stable seeing that every detail is handled. This is why Neil Jones of Neil Jones Equestrian trusts this twenty-five-year-old professional to run his U.S. operations. Jones goes back and forth between the states and his home base in Belgium, while Spencer runs the newly developed sales business in the U.S. Their distinct personalities blend well together, and each trusts the other implicitly.

As they kick off year two of NJE America in Wellington with a nice selection of sale horses, they also have a keen focus on Spencer’s development as a top show jumper. Over the last year, with Jones as her coach, Spencer has competed successfully in the ‘big’ classes, including 1.50m grand prix as well as FEI North American League events.

Spencer’s hard work was not always aimed in this direction.

Having spent her junior years in California, she achieved success in the jumper ring before leaving the West Coast to work for names such as Kent Farrington, Darragh Kenny and now Neil Jones. She groomed as many as seven horses at a time, always devoted to horse care, without aspirations to be in the show ring. When Jones’ rider at the time, Lorenzo de Luca, was injured in 2014, both he and Jones encouraged Spencer to get back in the tack. That was fall of 2014, and just over two years later here she is, exuding both style and talent.

HORSE & STYLE: Describe your riding (apparel) style: MAVIS SPENCER: I have a pretty simple and classic style. I spend a lot of time doing things around the stables – not just riding, so it’s really important that everything I wear can keep up with my busy day on and off the horse. I’m very fortunate that I get to work with some great companies like Animo, Parlanti, Kask, and Roeckl, to name a few, that are stylish but also functional and safe, which are my biggest concerns!

H&S: What is your head-to-toe riding outfit?

MS: All of my riding clothes are from Animo. I’ve been working with them for two years now and they just redid the gripping system on the breeches which I LOVE. The new show coats are lightweight and have fun patterns on the lining which makes them comfy and cool. I ride in Parlanti boots.

I’m super excited for the new KK boot, they have a sneaker sole which is great when you’re running around all day. I also NEVER ride without my Kask Star Lady helmet. Not only is it comfortable and safe but the longer wide brim shields me from the sun. I always work around the barn and ride with gloves, so I have several pairs of Roeckl gloves that are also touchscreen compatible, which we all know is essential!

Photo courtesy of Oughton Limited Katie Houlihan photo

H&S: Do you wear anything for good luck?

MS: My parents always told me “the harder you work the luckier you get” but that being said I have quite a few rings

and bracelets that I never take off. I often wear my equestrian inspired Michel McNabb necklace and earrings. People joke they can hear me coming because I wear a lot of jewelry when I ride but each and every piece has a lot of meaning for me. My comfort clang!

H&S: What are your favorite equestrian brands?

MS: Aside from Animo, Passion EQ (which distributes Parlanti in Wellington), Kask, and Roeckl, I have a few hand bags and totes from Oughton Limited that keep me organized in and out of the barn.

The bags are simple, elegant, functional, and easily transitioned to life beyond the barn. I can head to the coffee shop to do entries and everything is in one place and still stylish!

H&S: What are your riding goals?

MS: I had quite a good career as a junior and was able to ride a lot of different horses, which was invaluable. After a few years of being a professional I took a step back from the riding due to an injury and started grooming. I did that for three years before Neil got me back on a horse. At that time I was more than happy having the U25 classes be my Olympics, and riding a group of sales horses.

However, thanks to Neil, my amazing owners, and an incredible group of horses, I have started jumping some bigger tracks. For me as a rider I’d like to make sure that I can keep up with my horses’ scope and talent, so that we can all keep growing together.

H&S: What are your career goals?

MS: I have a really great group of horses right now, so I’m hoping I will be able to campaign them for a little longer and possibly jump in a Saturday night Grand Prix here in Wellington.That would be a dream come true for me.

Beyond that, I’d love to represent the U.S. on a Nations Cup Team.

That would be amazing, but again, it all depends what horses I have, and how much time I can spare to focus on just that goal.

I genuinely love riding the sales horses and feel incredibly lucky with the set-up I have.

All of my horses have CWD tack and I’ve had CWD saddles for years. I can’t imagine riding in anything else. I’ve also worked with Walsh Products for many years and they have arguably the best and widest range of products.

They do absolutely incredible leather work that looks amazing and lasts! Function is a HUGE requirement for me; things can’t just look good. The same is true of the Equsani boots all my horses wear. They keep their legs a lot cooler, and provide increased shock absorbency to keep down the stress on the legs.

H&S: How would you H&S: What has been the describe your non-horse most influential moment in show style? your riding career?

MS: It’s a rare occasion I go out MS: It’s hard to pick just one anywhere that requires me to moment, as there have been so dress up. I have a few amazing many over the years that have pairs of Stuart Weitzman boots meant a lot or influenced me. that manage to pull together Finishing 2nd and 3rd in the jeans and a simple shirt to $50,000 class in Kentucky this past make a for a dressier look in summer was a big deal. Neil wasn’t cool weather. When it’s warm in town that weekend, which I put on a pair of Katharine is rare, and I was very nervous Page sandals or flats. I have a Mavis Spencer and Disco Lady, photo © Shawn McMillen (shocker, I know). Luckily my Brazilian treatment done on my friend Rory Lenehan offered to hair which makes it really easy help me. Earlier that day Facebook to wash and wear. I think the had sent me a notification that two years earlier I was at a 3* in Poland biggest thing with my style and routine is I like it to be as easy as grooming seven horses on my own so it was truly amazing to see how possible so I can spend more time and energy in the stables and far I had managed to come in two years thanks to everyone at Neil with the horses.

Jones Equestrian! (and thanks that night to Rory, whom I actually H&S: How do you handle high-pressure situations, for example right before you enter a big class?

MS: To say I get nervous before I show would be the ultimate understatement. Neil always tells me it will get easier the more I do it. Since I only started jumping the big international classes this past fall in California, every time I walk the course I still feel slightly nauseous and make a joke about how I would rather watch. Neil is definitely the reason I am where I am and has a way of easing my nerves. I know he would never put me in a situation I wouldn’t be able to succeed in or wasn’t ready for, so the comfort in that is huge for me.

work with now, too!)

H&S: What’s the one thing you never go in the ring without?

MS: A stick! I participated in a George Morris clinic when I was 10 and first started doing the jumpers. As we all came into the line-up to do an introduction he called out one of the girls for not having one. He said a truly prepared rider always has one at their disposal, and sent her away to get one. After riding so many different horses growing up, some that had a few problems going forward, I find it an extension and training aid I can’ and wouldn’t want to be without.

Sometimes a little extra encouragement is needed!

january/february ·

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OUT&

about

T H E R O YA L A G R I C U L T U R A L W I N T E R F A I R – T O R O N T O , C A N A D A

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1. Winner McLain Ward and runner-up Kent Farrington at the press conference following the $130,270 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Toronto 2. Tiffany Foster last showed at the RHS as a junior. The two-time Canadian Olympian received a warm welcome upon her return 3. Dixson carried Ian Millar, 69, to a record 12th Greenhawk Canadian Show Jumping Championship at the RHS 4. Lauren Hough and Ohlala displayed their impressive speed 5. Power couple Nic Roldan and Jessica Springsteen at The Royal 6. Jeff Brandmaier and Caliana claimed the 1.40m Junior/Amateur Jumper championship title 7. Rio Olympic Champions Nick Skelton and Big Star made their only North American international show jumping appearance of the year at the RHS 8. Team USA (right) was presented as the winner of the Canada vs. USA Royal Polo Match by Charlie Johnstone, CEO of The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

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Photos © Jump Media & Ben Radvanyi Photography (3, 5, 7, 8)

Sterling View Farm would like to pay tribute to the incredible career of

Susan Meadows & Topper.

Just a few of his many triumphs:

· Over 40 classic/stake wins · Winner of the $10,000 Jr/AM Modified Classic at Menlo twice · Multiple wins at Spruce Meadows · Low A/O Circuit Champion at Indio · Winner of the $25,000 PCHA Ch/AA Finals at Del Mar · Multiple Year End Championships for NorCal and PCHA

Special thanks to the many people that have played a roll is his success over the last 16 years.

Wishing Topper many healthy and happy years in his well earned retirement!

Matt Sereni . Morgan Hill, CA . (408) 776-5107 . (650) 888-9441 . sterlingviewfarm@gmail.com

N E W product

by Alli Addison photos by Jenna R. Dana

alert

C.S. S I M K O All things equestrian have long been admired for their quintessential classic aesthetic, and fashionable minds have turned to them season after season. Designers draw upon equestrian culture for inspiration, editors create stunning visual stories to include in the pages of major fashion publications, and audiences continue to crave more.

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The infatuation with the equestrian set is a fascination that has continued for decades and it is easy to see why. The equestrian look is polished, clean-lined and expertly crafted of rich, deep and timeless materials – tweeds, velvets, crisp whites, brass and silvers, and the most coveted and emulated of them all, leather. Infusing leather into an ensemble instantaneously elevates a “look.” In the form of jewelry, shoes, handbags, and details on clothing, leather transforms and completes. Often, the simplest way to complete a look is by way of a great, classic, leather belt.

A H A N D S - O N A P P R OAC H TO THE P R O C E S S In 2012, Stuart Simko set out to craft a belt for himself and his wife. He wanted to create something that was classic, timeless, a belt that could work for both men and women, and a belt that had a minimalist quality about it. Fantastic things are typically

created out of necessity and Simko simply couldn’t find anything on the market that met his needs. So he tinkered, he searched for the very best of materials that would provide the longevity to last a lifetime, and he crafted his first belt. It was stunning, it was wellmade, and it was desirable. Friends and family began to ask for belts and soon after, C.S. Simko was born.

England that we feel uses the best quality leather and finishing techniques to create a belt that simply cannot be matched in terms of quality, durability, and beauty. Because our belts are so minimalistic in design we felt that we must use the best and most beautiful leather in order to let the leather speak for itself,” says Simko.

The name C.S. Simko comes from Stuart, himself, (Charles Stuart Simko) as he feels the quality and construction starts and finishes with him. “The namesake holds me accountable to make the best products possible,” says Simko.

EQUESTRIAN INSPIRED Since its inception, C.S. Simko has resonated with the public, fashion influencers, and buyers alike, picking up accounts across the nation. But there is also a deep connection with the equestrian community. “I cannot think of a group of individuals who know quality craftsmanship and classic appeal better than equestrians,” explains Simko. Having always been inspired

Each belt is personally handcrafted by Simko in his studio in Greenville, SC. “We source all our leather from a tannery in

by equestrian style, Simko felt the equestrian circle was his customer base.

Equestrians have appreciated the assortment of beautiful leathers, sizes and classic buckles for years now. It has been the combination of the rich leathers in colors such as the Dark Stain Oak Bark, the Australian Nut Burgundy, the Light Brown Suede, and the Black paired with the stunning solid brass buckles that have had so much appeal.

They are undeniably classic, tailored, and timeless, essential criteria for the equestrian set. And they are transcending. C.S. Simko belts transition with ease from the stable to the show ring to the street. From breeches to jeans, skirts to shorts, cinched at the waist of rompers, tunics and dresses, or worn on the exterior of your outwear – a good belt has a place in every wardrobe and on every outfit.

SOMETHING NEW THIS SEASON As the company has grown, Simko has expanded the line of product offerings, beginning with several new belt and buckle combinations. “We felt it was necessary not only to offer a classic buckle, but to offer something a little more fun and unique,

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something that allowed for more creative expression.” This year C.S. Simko is introducing three new belt/buckle combinations. A coral buckle, an oak leaf buckle, and a snake buckle, each individually cast and polished by master leather workers.

A F U T U R E B E YO N D B E LT S Future plans for the cult-following accessory brand include more belts, more leather goods, and diving into the wonderful world of handbags. “We want to continue to grow at our own pace and as the market desires. We are starting the process of designing handbags as we feel we can bring our principles of high end design and craftsmanship to the market,” says Simko. “And we don’t love the idea of mass production – the product can lose its soul at that point and we want to continue to create works of art.”

Regardless of the direction of growth, handcrafting the world’s finest belts will continue to be the mission of C.S. Simko, so buckle up!

cssimko.com

HIGHPOINT FARM

feature

by Alli Addison photos by Jenna R. Dana

T H E LW E L L :

It’s a Pony-Mad World I remember the day my mother gave me my first Thelwell book. It was a vintage book that she had for some time and passed down to me the day I received my first pony.

It is only fitting that I was introduced to the world of Thelwell at exactly the same time I was introduced to the world of ponies – the cute, adorable, spirited, stubborn and (sometimes) nasty little creatures that they are.

Norman Thelwell

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All Thelwell Cartoon Imagery © The Thelwell Estate 2017. Reproduced by permission of NewTack Strategies, Inc.

H

aving spent a number of years upon the backs of full-size horses, I had developed a strong obsession with riding. But I was small.Very small. And my petite size got the wheels turning in the minds of my parents. A pony, they thought, would be ideal for their daughter. They were not pony people. They were horse people. And they were blindly and blissfully unaware of the nature of the pony. So I received my darling “Dusty” for my 8th birthday and all of our worlds seemed to change instantly. She was flashy, had a lust-worthy thick mane and tail, and a stout 12.2 hands high build. She was forward – very forward

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– and loved to jump. But she was also challenging, strong-willed, eyebrow raising, and full of piss and vinegar. That precious little ill-tempered pony pushed me and made me the rider I am today. She was every bit the quintessential Thelwell pony.

Pony people know Thelwell. But horse people are not as familiar with this celebrated, entertaining and iconic artist.

And I have come to realize that (gasp!) today’s pony generation is not nearly as familiar with the Thelwell world as the pony generation of my past. So, a little Thelwell schooling is certainly in order.

Norman Thelwell was a British cartoonist and illustrator whose on-point depiction of ponies and their riders brought him unending fame. Born in 1923 in

Birkenhead, Cheshire, Norman Thelwell took to art at an early age and preferred drawing and painting to any other school subject. In 1941 Thelwell joined the army and recalled always traveling with his sketchbooks. He spent his early career working as an art editor, an art teacher, a cartoonist and a freelance art contributor.

In 1952, Thelwell became a contributor to the popular satirical magazine Punch, and, so it seems, the rest is history. With Punch magazine, he embarked on a 25year relationship resulting in nearly 2,000 cartoons. “He loved to draw animals and horses,” says Thelwell’s son, David Thelwell. “And when asked to do a few pony cartoons, the whole thing took off.

He covered many subjects in the cartoons and was bemused by the popularity of the pony ones.”

Norman Thelwell spent his childhood in a shipbuilding city. To escape their dayto-day urban environment, sometimes the family stayed on a farm in North Wales for the summer. As a child he developed a love for the countryside and for the farm animals. But Thelwell was not a horseman, which makes his witty and seemingly knowledgeable portrayal of horses and ponies so intriguing. “Towards the end of the war [my father] was sent to India and while spending time in the foothills of the Himalayas, [he] rode a horse,” says David Thelwell. The horse bolted downhill and ‘put him off for life’ says his son. “Maybe that’s why he was so impressed with the fearless nature of little children riders,” he continues. Norman Thelwell once observed, “I’ve had the misfortune to be mounted, and actually it’s been a quite

hairy experience on several occasions.”

He often questioned the popularity of riding and wondered why “children take to the saddle like the hordes of Genghis Khan.” He was able to illustrate the horse-riding obsession with deadly clarity and true comic genius.

Like any good cartoonist, he meticulously researched his subject and came to know a great deal about riders and their mounts.

He developed a keen understanding of the unique relationship between a horse and a human, while always keeping a safe distance. He was never inspired to get back in the saddle. “For a cartoonist, it is better to comment on a subject when you are standing on the sidelines and not involved in the action,” says David Thelwell.

In an interview Norman Thelwell spoke of the moment the ‘Thelwell Pony’ was born.

“One day I did a pony drawing and it was like striking a sensitive nerve. The response was instantaneous. People telephoned the editor and asked for more. Suddenly I had fan mail. So the editor told me to do a two-page spread on ponies. I was appalled.

I thought I’d already squeezed the subject dry. I looked at the white drawing block and wondered what on earth to do. In the end I dreamed up some more horsey ideas and people went into raptures.”

He possessed a knack for characterizing the good and the bad, the ups and the downs, the wins and the disasters of riding, with perfect embellishment. A sore loser placing a set of shoes and nails on the seat of the winning peer’s saddle, january/february ·

29

the bloodied fallen hunter, the insulting untidy rider. But Norman Thelwell was also an accomplished and skilled landscape portrait artist who painted stunning works of the British countryside. When reviewing the popular pony cartoons, if you look past the cartoon and the humor itself, you can see the talent and beauty in the background landscapes. Nevertheless, it was always the four-legged ponies which he described as “dangerous at both ends and comfortable in the middle” that attracted the masses.

The Thelwell name soon became synonymous with children and their little fat ponies. His first collection of cartoons, Angels on Horseback, was published in 1957 and the Thelwell Pony thus entered the language and the libraries of equestrian

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enthusiasts across the globe. Additional books followed, along with columns, cartoons, and Thelwell merchandise. The Thelwell mantra spoke to learning how to get into a saddle, and studying the art of staying there. And now the original book that started it all, Angels on Horseback, is preparing to celebrate it’s 60th anniversary with new releases and new licensed merchandise. The Thelwell art is now available on equestrian belts, boot socks and pony pads. The sharp social comment that popularized his name in the 1950s has succeeded in resonating with multiple generations and still rings true today. Times may have changed, but the pony-child relationship has not.

As a pony-riding child, I adored these books. And as an adult, I enjoy them even

more. It only seems fitting, that all these years later, this same Thelwell-Pony-owning little girl is now a Thelwell-Pony-owning adult. We surprised our children this summer with their very own cute, adorable, spirited, stubborn and sometimes nasty little pony, which we affectionately call Kevin.

As loving and pony-understanding parents, we are confident he will make them into exceptional riders. He is challenging, strong-willed and full of piss and vinegar.

He is also every bit the quintessential Thelwell Pony.

With the 60th anniversary of Angels on Horseback taking place this year, there is a resurgence of Thelwell, breeding a new generation of Thelwell lovers. It is a ponymad world, and we all might as well have a little cheeky fun with it.

Thank you to all who have contributed

photo: Deb Dawson

to the success and health of our horses.

Looking forward to 2017

CARAT – Owned and ridden by Rebecca Fahrendorf

CUFFLINK – Owned by Copper Hill Farm

2016 Champion NorCal AA Hunter 18-40 2016 Res Champion PCHA Region 2 AA Htr 36/Over

2016 Champion NorCal Pre-Green 3’3” 2016 Champion PCHA Region 2 Pre-Green 3’3” 2016 Res Champion PCHA A Pre-Green 3’3”

2016 Champion NorCal 1st year Green Working Htr 2016 Champion PCHA 1st year Green Working Htr

Ridden by Priscilla Trees

Ridden by Priscilla Trees

PRISCILLA TREES, Owner / Trainer • CORRIE JANSEN, Asst. Trainer (707) 971-9084 • Priscilla@CHFHunterJumper.com • Located at Edgewood Equestrian, Nicasio CA

H&S

home

by Laurie Berglie photos by Taylor Rea

A Kentucky-Inspired California Ranch We would like to welcome a new column to our magazine – “Horse & Style Home” – in which we will feature fabulous equestrian-themed design, décor, and properties each issue. First up is our own Alli Addison, frequent H&S contributor, whose exquisite California home can be described as eclectic and collected.

F R O M 1 8 3 7 T O 2 0 11 For Alli’s family, it all started in 1837 when her great-great-greatgrandfather, Captain William Goodwin Dana, originally from Boston, MA, settled on a piece of land approximately an hour north of Santa Barbara, California. He had taken to sea life early and traveled the world extensively before making his way to California as the master of the brig Waverly. Santa Barbara was not only a major seaport at the time, but it was the capital of Alta California.* Captain Dana set up a merchandising business, held several public office positions, and met and married Josepha Carrillo, the daughter of the provincial Governor of California (then still a part of Alta California).

Prior to the marriage, however, Captain Dana had to give up his American citizenship, become a Mexican national, and convert to Catholicism – all of which he did. As a result, he and his wife received the Mexican Land grant of Rancho Nipomo, totaling 38,000

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acres. They built their home, Dana Adobe, which still stands today, established a profitable ranching operation, and had 21 children!

“Our family has lived here ever since. Farming. Ranching. We have raised cattle, tended to the land. Parts of the original land grant have been sold off through the years, but members of the Dana family remain, living on plots of land that have been in our family for generations,” notes Alli. “My husband and I built our house on land adjacent to my parents’ home. We began designing and building in 2009 and moved in on June 9, 2011. I will remember that date for eternity as we found out the weekend we moved into our new dream home that we were expecting our first child.”

T H E M I LTO N M E N A S C O I N F LU E N C E Santa Barbara has a definite style, but from a design perspective, basically anything goes on the California coast. While Spanish

*Alta California was a territory of Mexico that included what is now CA, NV, UT and parts of AZ, WY, CO, and NM. It was ceded to the United States after the Mexican-American War in 1848.

ranches and custom Mediterranean homes abound, Alli knew she wanted something more unique for her own personal residence.

She would, of course, honor her family’s rich heritage, but she admits to two additional style influences: her great-great-uncle, well-known equestrian artist Milton Menasco’s work, as well as her love for Kentucky.

“When I was 15, I took a break from competing on horseback and got involved in a horse judging program that took me all over the country, and primarily to Kentucky. I was so taken by the landscape there, the farms, the style, the way of living, and the horses. Additionally, my late Aunt Florence Menasco, wife to my Uncle Milton Menasco, was now living in California in a quaint little Kentucky-style home. I loved visiting her at her home, and taking in the mid-century classicism of her space. The art, the mill work, the colors, the furnishings, the shutters, and the board and batten exterior.”

Alli believes that her relation to the artist and her upbringing with his family influenced her style in a very classical way. In her home, Menasco’s work is mainly surrounded by traditional elements, but she does, at times, push the boundaries. “I’ve long

told clients that classical art can exist in both traditional and modern settings. The juxtaposition can be a very good thing.

But for my own personal style, I find myself developing a deep appreciation for soft, natural colors, similar to those you find in Menasco’s pieces. His landscapes in the background of his subjects are stunning. His use of terrain, skyscapes, etc. – all the colors are soft yet true. I find myself pulling a lot of blues, greens, grays, and browns into my space because of those works.”

Alli’s home also features traditional elements such as heavy base, crown, and raised paneling on interior doors, and to appease her equestrian-obsessed design aesthetic, she drew upon the classic cross buck detail on her doors and the z-style shutters surrounding the windows. On the exterior, a cupola was added. “It is certainly a nod to the famous horse farms and barns of Kentucky, but it’s also a nod to my Spanish-California roots. My great-great-great-grandparents’ Casa de Dana Adobe features a cupola.”

A COLLECTION OF OLD AND NEW Alli notes that her style is entirely eclectic and collected, and her home is filled with modern touches, traditional elements, and rustic pieces. She and her husband had been saving for so long in order to january/february ·

35

build their dream home, that when they moved in, they didn’t have any art, fun pieces, or heirlooms. But that changed on their first weekend in the house.

“During that first weekend, my mom gave me two Menasco pieces.

I remember wandering around my house, trying to find the perfect place to display them. They spent a year in various locations and then eventually found their ‘place.’ I also began to acquire some furnishings, started purchasing pieces, fell in love with antiquing, and began collecting a mixture of old and new.”

That love for antiquing can be seen in Alli’s entryway, where three of her favorite pieces have found a home. The first is an old American flag she purchased while shopping in a small town not too far from home. Alli loves that the red from the flag draws the eye and gives a pop of classic color. Below the flag rests an Americana folk-art horse toy chest which found its place there by accident. “When I brought it home, I honestly didn’t know where to put it,” remembers Alli. “So I put it on the entry table, and it has remained there ever since. Several weeks later, my mom dropped off some old tack. I didn’t know where to put the saddle and on the folk-art horse it went. It simply stuck.”

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Not surprisingly, Alli is very partial to another piece by Milton Menasco that was given to her by her mom. “It’s a study of my aunt’s broodmare and foal at their farm in Kentucky. After my aunt passed, it hung in my grandmother’s house for years. And now it hangs in our house. It is a small piece, of no great horse, but it is incredibly special to me.”

IT TAKES A LIFETIME While Alli is very happy with the home she and her husband have built on her ancestors’ land, she reminds herself that it will take many years to make her home feel “complete.” She recommends gradually collecting unique and special pieces instead of trying to get it done in one fell swoop. “It takes a lifetime to make a home, and I believe it takes a lifetime to develop your own personal style as it is always evolving.”

For Alli Addison and her family, California is and will always be home. She says it’s an extraordinary feeling to raise her children on land, and in an area, where their ancestors were raised almost 200 years ago. “The history of the land surrounding us is rich, and I look forward to continuing to build a home with pieces that echo that history.”

JOINT SUPPORT THAT’S

OFF THE CHARTS In a recent study, twice as many horses showed improvement after receiving SmartFlexÂŽ IV Ultimate compared to the control group. This chart-topping supplement provides uncompromising support for hard-working joints, tendons, and ligaments.

Call the Supplement Experts at 1-800-461-8898 for a free consultation or visit SmartPak.com/SmartFlexResearch to learn more.

B E H I N D the

seams

story by Laurie Berglie photos by Alicia Cervenka

Mini Britches R E D E F I N I N G C H I L D R E N ’ S A P PA R E L

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A RT I M I TAT E S L I F E Oscar Wilde once famously wrote, “Life imitates art,” but for Horse & Style Magazine editor-in-chief and co-founder of Mini Britches, Sarah Appel, art actually imitates life.

Yes, you read that correctly. For those of you who don’t know, our very own Sarah is the co-founder of Mini Britches, the toocute-for-words clothing company that specializes in equestrianthemed apparel for newborns and toddlers. You’ve seen the company advertised within the magazine, and probably fawned over the photos of two babies outfitted in pastel pink horse-motif and orange plaid onesies, pajamas, and t-shirts. The idea behind these adorable duds was born during Sarah’s baby shower for her first daughter, Ella.

“My friends and family bought me every horse-themed onesie and outfit they could find,” remembers Sarah, “and while they were all adorable, most had a very western, cowgirl feel to them.

I love those too, of course, but it was then that I realized there wasn’t really anything out there for the English hunter/jumper crowd. And that’s when the idea for Mini Britches began because I knew there was a market for them.”

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Mini Britches, however, wouldn’t make its debut for three more years. Sarah had started Horse & Style Magazine in 2011 while she was pregnant with Ella, and shortly thereafter, she had a new baby and a new publication on her hands. Needless to say, things were a bit busy in the Appel household!

T H E P E R F E C T PA R T N E R S H I P When Ella was five months old, Sarah made a wonderful friendship and connection with future business partner, Carlie DeCesare. The two met at a “mommy and me” music class and after learning that Carlie had a background in design and product development, Sarah approached her with her idea for Mini Britches.

“I have a master’s degree in fashion merchandising,” notes Sarah, “but no background in production, which was Carlie’s specialty.

It just worked out perfectly because Carlie is the brains behind regulations, production, all things legal, and the design, and I bring sales and marketing experience, as well as my connections within the horse community.”

The two got to work immediately only to discover that they would both be welcoming new additions to their growing families.

Sarah’s second daughter, Piper, was born around the same time as Carlie’s son, and the timing couldn’t have been better. “Our children became the Mini Britches models! It was 2014, and we were ready to launch.”

MOMS ON A MISSION As moms, Sarah and Carlie were able to create the kind of product they had been looking for but unable to find. To start, Carlie sourced the fabric and had it knitted and printed from a fabric mill in southern California, so the apparel is uniquely soft and comfortable. They also did away with the traditional inside tag; all tags are either screen-printed or on the outside of the garment. Inseam snaps make for easy dressing and diapering, and all clothing is machine washable. The pull-on pants have an elastic waistband, and the plaid-detailed bottom cuffs can be rolled up or down depending on the baby’s growth. Finally, additional materials are all sourced from domestic suppliers, and everything is produced in San Francisco, which means this is a completely U.S.-based company.

They were also excited about bringing to life a set of designs and patterns that would have a home firmly rooted in the hunter/

jumper community. At Mini Britches, you won’t find any cowgirls, fringes, denim, or notoriously western motifs. Instead, the apparel is designed to reflect the company’s name with babies actually appearing to wear mini britches complete with faux knee patches. Sleeves are adorned with elbow patches that complement the classic, traditional look and feel of all the outfits.

NOT JUS T FOR HORSE LOVERS Not surprisingly, shortly after launching the company through a social media campaign, orders began pouring in, and Mini Britches is now in more than forty tack stores across the country, plus a handful of stores worldwide.You can also find pop-up shops at a variety of local horse shows with Sarah or Carlie at the helm. Sarah loves these pop-up shops because it’s here that she gets to interact with her customers.

“Grandmas are our number one customers!” Sarah laughs. “But I’ve learned that Mini Britches is a hit with both equestrians and non-horse people alike. Equestrians will buy the clothes for their non-horsey friends and relatives because they want to share their passion. They want to include them in a very important aspect of their lives: horses! But because the style of our clothing is so

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traditional and timeless, it crosses boundaries between the horse and mainstream communities.”

Mini Britches is growing every day, and Sarah and Carlie are expanding their online presence, while appearing in an increasing number of tack stores throughout the country and internationally.

And though they love what they’ve created for babies and toddlers, their vision also includes developing a kids’ ready-to-wear line so Mini Britches can officially cross over into the mainstream market.

K E E P I N G L I F E I N P E R S P E C T I V E As an equestrian entrepreneur with multiple years, projects, and companies under her belt, Sarah is able to offer some advice she’s learned from the industry. “First, be brave and bold, and go after it.

The equestrian market is big, but it’s still a niche market, so you have to be prepared to fight for your company.You have to be truly passionate about your work because, as with everything in life, what you get out of it is what you put into it.”

“Not surprisingly in our era of technology and instant gratification, most of the work will be online. Utilize the personal connections you have within the horse industry, but be prepared to spend most of your day in front of your computer answering emails and marketing your company.” Sarah is also quick to remind us that the industry

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is ever-changing, so it’s important to adapt your business and your mindset. For example, Horse & Style Magazine was originally supposed to be only a regional, California-based publication. Fast forward five years later and it has a massive, global reach.

“I’ve never had a corporate-type job. My work has always been based on my love for animals. I was completely immersed in all things equestrian while working for Meredith Herman of Burgundy Farms, and it wasn’t long after that I started Horse & Style Magazine.

When I started a family, the idea for Mini Britches came to life.

For me, it’s about passion, of course, but it’s also about seeing and recognizing a need within the market, and filling it.”

Finally, Sarah cautions against taking anything too seriously; keep life in perspective. For her, that’s putting her family first, every single day.

She loves Horse & Style and Mini Britches, but if she were to wake up tomorrow and both businesses disappeared, she’d be fine because she’d still have her husband and two daughters.

Chinese philosopher Confucius once said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” For Sarah Appel, Mini Britches represents some of her favorite things: living the life of an entrepreneur, being a part of the horse industry, and designing the very best clothing for her children.

SEE BLU E With a quarter century of experience, Neil Jones Equestrian USA and Neil Jones Equestrian Europe, sees blue in your future.

Let us find your perfect match.

Neil Jones +1 (561) 762-3089 | +32 475 42 46 18 neiljonesequestrian@hotmail.com Mavis Spencer +1 (310) 569-9357 | Mavispence@gmail.com EQSOL AD DESIGN

OUT&

about

THE L AS VEGAS NATIONAL HORSE SHOW CSI4*-W – L AS VEGAS, NV

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1. Christian Heineking and AJE Cluny – winners of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Las Vegas 2. The South Point honored Blenheim EquiSports for 10 years of the LVN Horse Show. Steve Stallworth, South Point Arena GM, Stephanie Wheeler, Melissa Brandes and Robert Ridland of Blenheim EquiSports, and Ryan Growney, South Point Hotel & Casino GM 3. Opening Ceremonies began with the Parade of Nations 4. Orange is the new black when shopping for style at the LVN​​ 5. Enrique Gonzalez and Chacna – 2nd in the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Las Vegas

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Photos © Amy McCool & Alden Corrigan (4, 7,10)

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6. Megan Hilton and Caretypso – winners of the CPHA Foundation WCE Medal Finals 7. Only in Vegas does the mounting block have a famous marquis backdrop... Kristin Hardin’s mount Aran on his way to compete 8. Playing By Air entertains the crowd during Opening Ceremonies before the start of the highlight event 9. Emilie Bell and Farmore Good as Gold on their way to a Pony Hunter Classic win 10. One bag, two bags, three bags, four – the shopping was to die for! 11. How sweet is it for WCE Medal Finalists?! 12. Canadian Keean White and Hera van de Kouterhoeve – winners of the $50,000 FEI 1.50m Las Vegas National Welcome Speed Classic

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FEATURE

by Jeanette Gilbert

Exotic Doha Hosts Fabulous Finales for The Longines

Global Champions Tour & The Global Champions League If one is a fan of 5* Show Jumping then the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) offers a list of must-attend events. From Mexico City to Monaco, this fifteen-show tour visits the most unbelievable locations around the globe between April and November, culminating in a final at the AL SHAQAB Equestrian Center in Doha, Qatar. As a bit of a show jumping groupie, the opportunity to go to this amazing finale and see the top riders in the world in such an exotic location was something I simply could not miss!

DOHA HOSTS THE HORSES AND RIDERS A peninsula on the tip of Saudi Arabia, the tiny desert country of Qatar is surrounded by the Persian Gulf. Although Doha is an ancient city, in the last 20 years the city has evolved. From the airport to the hotel to the show venue, many structures are newly developed, well-designed for the area’s warm temperatures and visually impressive. The weather is noticeably hot and humid, even in November, and I wondered about the horses who had flown in from the much cooler European temperatures to compete.

Leaving no detail unattended AL SHAQAB, which is owned by the Qatar Foundation (like most of the public works in the country), offers permanent stables with climate control for the visiting show jumpers. Everything is truly top notch, including state of the art footing, jumps, and a large fully-enclosed arena.

Although a long journey, this exceptional location is ideal for the finale of the prestigious LGCT. The vision of Olympic gold medalist Jan Tops, the Longines Global Champions Tour invites the world’s top-ranked riders to participate in fifteen events literally located around the world. Founded in 2006, I would venture to say this tenth year is the best one to date.

With both new and repeat locations each year, the tour offers unprecedented prize money, and, in 2016, launched a new team competition called the Global Champions League (GCL). With a goal to make show jumping more mainstream, the unique GCL format is based on popular team sports, with owners, strategies, trading and drafting of riders, sponsorship opportunities, and is the same high level of sport that has become synonymous with LGCT. As one would expect, presentations at AL SHAQAB are superb.

Riders bring in their horses, meet sponsors on the red carpet

St. Regis Doha

Rolf-Göran Bengtsson & Casall ASK

, President of the Hamad Al - Attiyah the deration presents Fe Qatar Equestrian y Cla us ssi Ca t on prize to Emily Moffi

and take photos before going on a victory gallop. The only aspect missing is the “champagne shower” that is often depicted on Global Champions podiums, because the Muslim country of Qatar is mostly dry, with the exception of 5* hotels.

earners for the 2016 season, who each earned a sizable bonus. Going into this final class, Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (SWE) and Edwina TopsAlexander (AUS) were neck and neck for the top two spots with five points separating their standings at 272 and 267 points respectively.

Speaking of 5* hotels, I was lucky enough to stay at the amazing St. Regis Doha, and enjoy a peek into what lodging life is like for the riders on the LGCT. For starters, my room included a butler!

Breakfasts were not only divine but we dined among 5* riders, who had a leisurely schedule at this finale. After hacking in the huge indoor warm-up ring or on the beautiful full-size training track, many of the riders would return to the St. Regis for a little pool time. When evening rolled around, the classes would commence, and the competition was nothing short of amazing.

The challenging track set by Uliano Vezzani proved to be an appropriate test with seven horse and rider combinations going clear over the first round course. After an uncharacteristic eight fault first round, Tops-Alexander and the ever-game Lintea Tequila were out of the running; Bengtsson and his partner of eleven years, the 17-year-old stallion Casall ASK, produced a clear round. This no fault score not only earned him the chance to win the grand prix, but at that moment clinched the season champion title. Having tied twice for this top spot, but ending up second, the Swedish rider could finally don the sash and take home a well-deserved champion bonus check.

FINALES WITH FINESSE Held on the first evening of the show, the Global Champions League 1.50m finale was captured by Team Valkenswaard United, who also won the inaugural class at Miami Beach in April. With Team members hailing from different countries, veteran John Whitaker (GBR) and the young phenom Bertram Allen (IRL) rode for Team Valkenswaard in Miami as well as in Doha. Since every GCL class counted towards the total at the end of the season, Team Valkenswaard’s Eduardo Menezes (BRA) as well as U25 rider Emily Moffitt (each team has one U25 rider) also found top podium finishes throughout the season, keeping their team at the top of the leaderboard.

The excitement of the weekend culminated on Saturday evening with the LGCT Finale.The intensity of the €450,000 1.60m Grand Prix was heightened as the results also determined the top three overall point Photos © Stefano Grasso/LGCT

To make the evening even sweeter the pair were last to go in a blistering fast jump off, and beat the leading time held by Daniel Deusser (GER) by four-tenths of a second for the win. Truly an incredible end to the season and the year for Bengtsson.

A few weeks later the owners of Casall ASK, the Holsteiner Verband in Germany, announced that he would show only a few times in 2017 and then retire from sport to focus his efforts on the breeding shed. The venerable stallion has already sired offspring that are competing at the 1.60m level, with more to follow.

Doha did not disappoint – the Longines Global Champions Tour and Global Champions League finals were memorable on every level. From the competition to the accommodations, the trip was certainly a 5* experience. january/february ·

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L I F E of

barbe

by Jana Cohen Barbe

Finding Your Joy

I

am often asked why I ride or own a barn or remain as infatuated with horses today as I was when I was a ten year old girl. The answer is simple: horses make me happy. The sight of horses playing in the paddock, the smell of the barn, the adrenaline rush of riding – all of it brings me to a place of joy.

With horses I have found my joy. Have you found yours?

I encourage you not to bypass that question. Finding your joy is as important a quest as one can pursue in life. The demands of adulthood can be endless. On any given day, we are spouses, parents, daughters, sons, caregivers, bill-payers, professionals, employees, homemakers, support-givers, friends, errand runners, housekeepers, chefs, chauffeurs, laborers, therapists, neighbors and colleagues. I start many a day telling my husband, “I don’t want to ‘adult’ today,” but then I inhale my coffee, put on my lawyer clothes and go “adult.” It is what we all do, and I do not know how we would survive it without finding moments of joy. Joy is the counter to how enervating life can be – joy eases the burden.

This much I know with absolute certainty, if you have joy in your life, you are a better spouse, parent, daughter, son, caregiver, bill-

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payer, professional, employee, homemaker, support-giver, friend, errand-runner, housekeeper, chef, chauffeur, laborer, therapist, neighbor and colleague. In business, I much prefer working with individuals who have passions and interests outside of work because they have a healthier perspective on what transpires in the office.

Clients also prefer working with individuals who are cheerful and optimistic. Joy is as good for business, as it is for life.

So how do you find your joy? Here are some tips from someone who walked a very, very long, circuitous path to return home to the barn.

Be self-aware. When was the last time you asked yourself what

makes you happy? Are you able to honestly assess your needs? Are you aware of your own behaviors – positive and negative – and how they impact your choices, as well as the choices of those around you?

I am no self-help guru but I do know that self-awareness profoundly affects an individual’s attitude, personal and professional successes, and capacity for joy. In business, the self-awareness of an individual also strongly impacts the way that management interacts with that individual. In the workplace, if someone is entirely unaware

of their own behaviors, it renders informal and even formal reviews meaningless. It signals to management a lack of capacity for growth.

Conversely, a person who displays self-awareness in a professional environment is also a person signaling to others that he/she is capable of development and advancement. So pause, and do a little selfassessment. What are your personal and professional aspirations? How can you improve as a person? And what makes you happy? Invest the time in understanding yourself.

Reconnect​. I found myself back in the barn, as an adult and a

mother, when my daughters began riding lessons. I remember how it felt that first day I walked into the barn with my daughters; how the smells and the noise came rushing back and flooded my senses, and I was returned to my memories of childhood and early adulthood when smelling like a horse was a badge of honor. I suddenly and dramatically reconnected with my old-self. I had forgotten who she was and many of the things she loved to do, but as I watched my daughters ride, I began to remember how much riding meant to me and how much I loved being around horses and horse people. And then I got on a horse myself, and that was it. Reconnection complete.

Maybe it isn’t horses for you – maybe it is drawing or painting or music or performing. What brings you joy is not what is important. It is only important that you find it.

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Find the time. I worked 290 hours last month. No, really. I don’t

recommend it. Working at that pace is not sustainable nor is it healthy.

I do not intend to repeat that any time soon. I also have no interest in working with people who always work that hard. For starters, they are no fun. Like me last month, they are tired, grumpy and stressed. So find a reason to leave work or to get out of the house and do something you love.You will be better for it and so will those around you. For me, riding is the perfect answer because when I ride, I am required to focus on the horse and on my position and, sometimes, on not dying.

When I ride, I cannot think about my to-do list, or my grocery list, or the innumerable other things that keep me up at night even though they are entirely beyond my control. I have no choice but to be in the moment and to focus on the ride. The trick for me is to make the time and get on the horse. I urge you to do the same.

Make Animals Part of your Life​. Okay, I am totally biased

on this one but I cannot imagine life without horses and dogs and even barn cats. There is something about being close to an animal that is good for the soul. For me, it is quieting. I don’t have to ride.

I can hand-walk one of our horses and suddenly the stresses of the moment are gone. I wake up in the middle of the night and my dog who yes, sleeps on the bed and is allowed on all of the furniture, comforts me. It is my version of meditation and I encourage everyone to find an animal-best-friend to help them navigate life.

People at work tell me I am different now than I was several years ago. I know they are right. I am not always sure how to tell people that horses have made me a better lawyer, but they have. They have made me a happier person, and happiness is contagious. So find your joy. And be happy.

Jana is a Partner and Global Vice Chair of Dentons, the largest law firm in the world. A foremost authority in real estate law and business management, Jana is a frequent author and speaker on leadership, crisis management, the role of women in business and professional advancement. An avid equestrian who owns a working farm in Kentucky, Jana examines the interplay between business and riding.

Photos © Jeff Rogers

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O N the

cover

by Jackie McFarland, Pam Maley & Nina Vogel

Most Intriguing Equestrians of H& S’s

2016

As we enter a new year, Horse & Style celebrates a handful of the many equestrian stars that intrigue and inspire us. It is always difficult to pick just six, but in this inaugural issue of 2017 we found a group that injects the excitement of top-level competition, shows us successful entrepreneurship, and provides drive, energy, and business perspective to improve our industry.

Great Britain’s Nick Skelton inspired us with his extraordinary perseverance over adversity, and tremendous skill. Americans Lauren Hough and Lucy Davis successfully represented the United States on many occasions, while earning individual accolades as well.

As the head of four companies, Canadian Noel Asmar gives us a glimpse into the world of

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a successful entrepreneur who achieves both inspiration and balance from horses. Notably, Lucy Davis also has entrepreneurial instincts and plans.

One of the most decorated and respected hunter riders, John French finished 2016 with a flourish, and recently started a new chapter in his career.

Truly an avid equestrian, Murray Kessler will take his business acumen, as well as his abundant energy, to his new position as president of USEF. With years of corporate success, and a lifelong passion for the sport, Kessler is intense, intriguing and inspirational.

We invite you to enjoy the brief but fulfilling journey as we proudly present Horse & Style’s Most Intriguing Equestrians of 2016.

Great Britain’s N I C K S K E L T O N

U.S.A.’s L A U R E N H O U G H

Canada’s N O E L A S M A R

Hunter Rider Afficionado J O H N F R E N C H

USEF President M U R R AY K E S S L E R

Millenial L U C Y D A V I S january/february ·

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W

ith a rich history of accolades, at the turn of the twenty-first century it seemed there were certain show jumping goals that Nick Skelton would not achieve. Au contraire! A broken neck, hip replacement, shoulder surgery and two knee surgeries didn’t stop Britain’s now 59-year-old show jumping wonder from bringing home one of the sport’s most coveted victories – an individual gold medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Truly one of the all-time greatest equestrians, with innumerable accomplishments aboard a long list of equine partners, and impressive athletic longevity, Skelton was also honored with a nomination for BBC’s 2016 Sports Personality of the Year Award (SPOTY).

As the main award of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony which takes place each December, the winners are picked by a public vote from a pre-determined shortlist.

Completing a banner year, Skelton came in third behind three-time SPOTY winner tennis player Andy Murray and triathlete Alistair Brownlee, with over 100,000 votes. The word backstage at the awards was that Murray’s wife Kim voted for Skelton, not her husband. The response from Murray was, “I’m hoping she was joking.”

However Skelton said, “I’m pleased with her vote, she didn’t vote enough times I don’t think.”

In 2000, Nick suffered a terrible fall directly onto his head that resulted in a broken neck. After spending nearly a year with various braces and collars on his neck, doctors were finally able to determine that a ligament between his spinal cord and brain had been severed.

They cautioned him to no longer drive, let alone ride. Nick then took two years off, and in 2001 completed an autobiography entitled Only Falls and Horses.

By 2002, the ligament had grown back enough that he was able to ride again. Friends and family feared for his health and safety, but Nick didn’t hesitate. Though it took nearly 10 years for him to regain mobility in his neck, he kept riding and winning. His horse at that time, Arko III, was still quite young and Skelton wanted them to reach their joint potential together. He did plan to retire with Arko, but in 2008 purchased 5-year-old Big Star and 7-year-old Carlo 273 as his final generation of equine stars.

NIC K SKELTON

Not new to Olympic competition, the 2016 Summer Olympics marked Skelton’s seventh time at the Games. During the superb summer of London 2012, at his sixth games, Skelton and his team mates clinched the team gold on home turf.

Riding in Rio four years later, in an unprecedented jump-off for medals, Skelton was the first of six to jump off on now 13-year-old Big Star. Clean and quick, he set a standard that could not be caught. Of the five who followed Skelton, Sweden’s Peder Fredricson was the only other competitor to jump off fault-free.

Prior to his individual Olympic gold glory and SPOTY recognition, Rio Olympic medalists (L-R) Peder Fredericson (SWE), Nick Skelton Skelton earned four Spruce (GBR) & Eric Lamaze (CAN), photo © Diana De Rosa Meadows Master wins, three consecutive Hickstead Derby wins, the British high jump record, 10 European Championship medals, a World Cup Final win and an So how incredibly sweet it was for Skelton, as well as his family, Olympic team gold medal, over the course of his career. friends and fans, to see the individual gold medal hanging around his once-broken neck. The perseverance over adversity inspired thousands. Skelton received over 600 texts on his phone, among It all started with a mother that rode, a father in the veterinary other congratulations, within hours of the awards ceremony. corps, and a Welsh Mountain pony named Oxo that Skelton rode when he was just 18 months old. His competitive career began in 1973 at age 15, while working with Liz and Ted Edgar. By age 20, “How can I describe how that felt? It was a triumph on many levels,” Skelton had secured the British high jump record when he and his noted Skelton. “But it was Big Star who lived up to his name. His mount Lastic cleared a 2.32m (7'7") vertical on their third attempt. athletic ability is outstanding. What more could I ask for?”

Of his numerous impressive achievements, Skelton cites his 1995 FEI World Cup victory in Gothenburg as one of his most memorable.

“Ok, yes, I’ve had a couple of great wins in the last two decades since this win in ‘95, but it still is my standout achievement indoors,” Skelton explained. “And Dollar Girl was one of the best mares I ever worked with. She could adjust to an intimate indoor arena and a large grass field outdoors without a problem.”

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After his win in Rio, the demand for his book skyrocketed. There has been talk of an updated version including the most recent years of success.

“When I’m not focusing on riding, I can think about the next chapter.

No one else will ride Big Star, so we’ll go jump until he’s ready to retire,” Skelton said. “With another decade and a half or so of ups and downs, it seems a second edition of the book will be in order.”

L

auren Hough wrapped up a stellar year, one among many that began growing up in Northern California.

Raised in an equestrian household, her father, Charles “Champ” Hough was a Team Bronze Medalist in three day eventing at the 1952 Olympics, and her mother Linda Hough was a top hunter rider who operated a successful hunter/jumper show stable for over 25 years.

“My mom plays a vital role on my team. She helps us manage the stable in Wellington. She is usually there before the staff arrives at 6:15 a.m. She keeps things clean and organized, so I’m able to focus on my job,” Hough said. “My whole team, actually, is amazing.

They’ve been with me for a few years and without them I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

and to gain a fan base following the sport, the GCL completed its first season in December. Each team has four members, a manager, and an owner, and must include at least one U25 rider.

Hough noted, “After the success of the GCT (Global Champions Tour) Jan Tops developed the GCL concept. I believe he’s trying to grow our sport and would like the best in the world to win significant prize money and get media attention, like golf and tennis. I believe in his vision and support what he is doing.”

Starting off 2016 with an injury that required surgery and a month out of the saddle, Hough came back refreshed, and in March had a big win in the $130,000 Engel & Volkers CSI4* Grand Prix with Cornet 39, the same mount she rode in the Ocala Nations Cup later in the season.

L AUREN HOUGH

On her way up the show jumping ladder, she conquered the pony ring, and then competed successfully through the hunter and equitation divisions as a Junior. She was a member of the 1993 Gold Medal Zone 10 Junior Jumper Team, and in 1994, at age 15, won the USEF Show Jumping Talent Search, and was named the PCHA Grand Prix Rookie of the Year.

Late summer and fall Hough and her talented partner Ohlala lit up the leaderboard with a top five finish in Valkenswaard in August and a pair of wins in Washington in October, including leading the victory gallop in the Welcome Class and the $130,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping class at the Washington International.

After a solid and successful junior and young professional Only 15.2h, Lala, as she’s career, working with many known around the barn, may top trainers, Hough finds that be small but she is a force she truly enjoys coaching. “I on course. “Lala is a fierce was very fortunate to work competitor – an absolute with and learn from a lot of fighter, and she loves to different people growing up win,” said Hough. “I don’t and feel coaching is a way I think of her as small when can give back to the sport. we’re in the ring. I feel really Lauren Hough and Ohlala at the 2016 WIHS, photo © Ashley Neuhof I just finished as a clinician comfortable and confident at the George Morris Horsemastership Clinic for the second year. on her. I know that if I don’t make a mistake, we’ll always have a That program is a great opportunity for those young riders.” very good chance of being super competitive.”

Now a veteran of team competition, Hough has helped to bring the U.S. to medal winning finishes throughout her career, in three Pan Am Games, and numerous Nations Cups. In 2016 she was a member of Hermès U. S. Show Jumping Teams that earned Gold at the Furusiyya Nations Cup CSIO4* in Ocala, silver at CSIO5* in La Baule as well as in St. Gallen, and bronze at the CSIO5* Dublin.

Based in the United Kingdom, Hough spends half her year in Europe, traveling the world to compete. “Wellington is my home now, and it’s nice to feel settled for a few months of the year, and not travel every week. But I love showing in Europe,” she noted.

“I’m really lucky to be able to do both.”

Two of the teams Hough rode on in the summer of 2016 were all female. Horse & Style asked about the female energy. “Of course it’s fun to be on a team with your friends but for us we don’t see it any differently. It seems to be press worthy because all-girl teams don’t happen that often in Europe.”

She did note that, “As a NARG Board Member I try to participate in the shows that rank high in North America. There’s a reason they are top shows, and we definitely want to see that continue. Of course showing in Europe offers its own perks. It is less expensive and the crowds are enthusiastic. But ultimately when the horses feel good, I feel good, no matter where we are competing.”

Hough was also a participant in the inaugural Global Champions League (GCL) this past year, as part of Team Vienna Eagles.

Attempting to make the world of show jumping easier to follow

Finishing up the year with a win on her mount Waterford in the Land Rover Masters at Mechelen, Hough and her horses are now in Wellington ready to kick off 2017 in style.

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T

o say that Noel Asmar wears many hats would be a distinct understatement. A wife and mom of three, a lifelong horse lover, a designer with an innate talent for creating style and beauty, an enthusiastic cook and hostess, a passionate photographer, and a smashingly successful entrepreneur at the head of four companies (The Asmar Group), she is incredibly busy and wouldn’t have it any other way.

As a horse-obsessed little girl, Asmar remembers driving with her family and blowing kisses to horses as their car passed by. “My dream came true when my mother got me my first horse, a reward for getting good grades in school. She was an Arab/Quarter Horse mare, whose registered name was ‘Fantasy Madonna!’”

Her current horse, Jake, is a handsome Friesian. “He’s my soul horse and he will be with me forever. He has taught me so much.”

She lives in an equestrian community, in a house and barn that she designed. “My home, barn, office and our recent pop-up equestrian store all reflect elements of the brand,” she explains.“I surround myself with the palettes and ambiance that give me a sense of calm and tranquility. I love the process of creation. From the design of a house to the décor in it, every touch point has intimate value. I look to design spaces that provide an ambient atmosphere for entertaining, and to incorporate the extra touches of the things that inspire me, usually from a trip or experience.

4,000 business partners in over 60 countries worldwide. Noel is very active in the spa and wellness community, and sits on the board of the International SPA Association.

In 2011, her love for all things equestrian inspired her to launch the Noel Asmar Equestrian line.The journey began with the first breakout piece and continual best-seller, the All Weather Riding Jacket. “Living in Vancouver brings its fair share of wet weather,” she recounts. “And having built our family home with a barn attached, I was spending a lot of time with my horses, rain or shine! I was looking for a stylish jacket that I could wear around the barn, and when I was riding; but there was nothing available except heavy outbackers that didn’t move with me when I rode.

Already working in apparel manufacturing, I decided that if I couldn’t find the jacket I needed, I would make one!

The year we launched, this style won the BETA (British Equestrian Trade Association) Most Innovative Rider Apparel of the Year award.”

NOEL ASMAR

Designed with the Noel Asmar ‘Made for the way you move’ motto in mind, this innovative full-length jacket protects the rider and saddle from all weather conditions, with front and back skirts that unfold to fit over the saddle.

Five years later, the Equestrian line expanded into an entire collection that was selected as the official apparel of the Canadian Equestrian Team at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

To culminate an incredible year, in December 2016, Noel Asmar cuts the ribbon at the grand opening Noel Asmar Equestrian of the first Noel Asmar Equestrain pop-up store did a pop-up shop in the Tsawwassen Mills Mall in British Columbia – likely the first time an “A memorable moment was when we hosted a white linen dinner equestrian brand has been in a mainstream mall. By all accounts, it in the thoroughfare of our barn, a beautiful evening that brought was a resounding success, welcomed by the equestrian community together friends and shared our love for horses.” and the local public alike. “The store was an incredible opportunity to showcase the vision in a branded space and allow people to Horse & Style asked Noel to share some memories of the beginnings experience Noel Asmar Equestrian in every aspect, from the store of the Asmar Group. “I’m grateful to have been able to work décor to the technical equestrian fashions and lifestyle essentials. We overseas in hotel management, gaining knowledge from across the have received a number of requests to open other locations around world, which gave me an insight into so many aspects of life that the world and we’re very excited about what the future will bring.”

I still reflect on, to this day. This was a pivotal time in my life as it was through these experiences that I was exposed to the incredible 2016 also marks the third consecutive year that Asmar has been power of a garment. My travels, and the people I have met along named as one of Canada’s Top-100 Female Entrepreneurs, an the way, inspire me to do what I do, and continue to inspire me to incredible accomplishment. The future beckons, with the launch create and innovate each day.” in 2017 of a contemporary women’s fashion collection, which she describes as “a fresh and whimsical collection of styles made for In 2002, Asmar launched SpaUniforms.com. At the time there was women on the move.” nothing like it on the market; the spa uniform was a boxy smock.

She felt inspired to create silhouettes that moved with the wearer, Certainly an inspiration for innovation and passion, as well as translating her motto ‘Made for the way you move’ into reality. balance, Noel Asmar is not only intriguing but one to watch!

Received with enthusiasm, the line is now worn by more than

S

ecuring his fourth win in the WCHR Professional Finals at the 2016 Capital Challenge was just one of many titles John French collected in the past year. On the West Coast he won the 2016 WCHR West Coast Hunter Spectacular, was named top USHJA International Derby Rider of the Year, won the CPHA Pre-Green Incentive Leading Rider Award, and earned a CPHA Special Achievement Award.

Hitting the East Coast in the fall, he was Grand Champion at Capital Challenge, overall highest scoring hunter round at the Washington International Horse Show and winner of the Equus Award for Leading Hunter Rider Performance at The National Horse Show.

A master catch rider, French has a natural feel and connection with horses. Starting out in pony club and fox hunting, he transitioned to hunterjumper competitions as a teenager. Training himself on a borrowed horse, he claimed the Maryland Equitation Finals at age 16. The demand for French to catch-ride blossomed after that win.

Success at Indoors began early in his career. French recalls with pride his first big win as a professional in the evening class at the 1985 Washington International Horse Show.

He laid down a trip in the Handy round of the Regular Working Hunter division that secured him the blue ribbon over riders he looked up to, including Rodney Jenkins, Katie Monahan and Charlie Weaver.

watch him go over a jump and you could hear them going, ‘Wow.’ It was almost surreal and definitely memorable.”

In June, while trying horses in England, he sustained a cracked rib after a fall, and spent a month without riding. The injury, and time out of the tack, put him in a funk heading into the fall season. He attributes getting back on track mentally by studying some sports psychology, which French feels is key to a balanced ride, and carries over into life.

“I think I was thinking too much and trying too hard and getting too much in my head, instead of just letting my instincts take over,” French said. “Sounds simple, but I learned that you can’t think too much. And that can be difficult.”

JOHN FRENCH

Indeed, once his instincts regained priority, he emerged from the indoor season with another collection of championships and a renewed mental edge.

At the end of 2016, French realized he was ready for a change. Relocating to Paso Robles on the central coast of California, he moved his business and adjusted his mission. Working out of Templeton Farms, a beautiful equestrian facility featuring an expansive indoor arena, two outdoor rings, grassy turnouts and a rideable track around the perimeter of the property, French plans to focus on the development of horses.

John French celebrates a win, photo © Alden Corrigan

Several decades later he has piloted hundreds of horses to impressive wins in the show ring. Proving his feel was equally as impressive over the big sticks, in 2000, French made participating in high performance show jumping a goal, and accolades followed. He earned the Rookie Grand Prix Rider of the Year award in 2000 and qualified for the FEI World Cup™ Finals in 2003 and 2004. During those same years, French represented the United States on several Nations Cup teams in Europe. Also in 2004 he qualified as the second alternate and was the highest placing West Coast rider in the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials.

Among the list of victories, he cited his top call in the inaugural USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals (2009) aboard Mountain Home Stables’ Rumba as a career high point.

“You could tell he knew it was a big deal,” French said of his legendary equine partner. “The qualifying round and the first round – they were two of the best rounds I’ve ever had. People would

“I just really love riding and producing horses. I felt that I wasn’t able to give the horses the attention they needed when I was home, because I was working with clients at two locations in the Bay Area,” he said regarding the demands of running a business with clients to train. “I felt if I could spend more time riding then maybe I’d develop a string of my own horses, along with catch ride, instead of always just riding for other people at the shows.”

Another aspect of his new lifestyle is to judge more horse shows, gathering invaluable experience out of the tack for a change. Aside from competing a bit at Thermal as well as heading to Florida for the Hunter Spectacular this winter, French plans to travel to some new shows, continue working on the mental aspect of the sport, while enjoying the ride.

French noted the importance of the mind-body connection. “I know the value of having a mental edge. Plus I want to take care of my body so I can keep doing this for awhile,” he added. “My new location and renewed outlook is a great start to this next chapter.”

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M

urray Kessler has all the qualities that make a top equestrian – pride, passion and perseverance, to name a few. Although he has logged plenty of miles in the saddle, his name is known for a host of other reasons. Father of Reed Kessler who, as the youngest equestrian Olympian at the 2012 Summer Games, took the show jumping world by storm as a junior rider rising into the international ranks. Board member and spearhead for the North American Riders Group (NARG), who elevated show jumping in North America through the NARG Top 25, among tackling several more key advocacy endeavors. And the latest chapter, former Board member and now incoming President of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).

While growing up in Devon, PA, Kessler visited a ranch in Colorado at age 13. It was there that he started his equestrian journey. “I rode western all summer and it instantly felt natural to me,” he remembers. “I came back to Devon and asked my parents if I could take riding lessons.” With only English lessons available at the time, Kessler switched saddles and never looked back. He was one of Katie Monahan’s (now Prudent) first students, until the time came to sell his horse and head for college and graduate school. During his tenure at school graduate, he met his kindred spirit and married her, both with dreams of horses in their heads.

An influential choice, as a few months later the couple moved back East and each bought a horse. They competed at shows that their budget allowed, grooming for one another. By the time Reed came along, eleven years into their marriage, Kessler’s career had taken off, and they had progressed to the top of the sport. “It’s been a real journey at all levels,” he recalls. “But I won’t ever forget where I came from, and the importance of providing access to our sport, and pathways to progress for everyone.”

As Kessler worked his way up in his corporate career, he achieved balance with riding because Teri stayed home and took care of the horses. “We couldn’t afford to board. We always had the horses on

· january/february

Seven years ago, when Kessler was asked to join the Board of the North American Riders Group, he brought an invaluable business perspective and discipline to the organization. The riders drove the points of view for advocacy, and in a short time, the annual NARG Top 25 resulted in quality improvements in North American shows.

M U R R AY K E S S L E R

Kessler’s first job was at the Clorox Company in Murray Kessler, California. “My wife Teri photo © Sport Fot and I had delayed our honeymoon when we first got married, as we couldn’t afford it. Three years later we bought the ticket for our honeymoon.

Coincidentally, Katie (Monahan) called right before we were supposed to leave and said, ‘Don’t go on a honeymoon, come to Middleburg instead.You and your wife can take lessons.’ Well, that’s exactly what we did.”

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our property. And, I found that the responsibility and leadership traits you learn from being involved with horses made me a better businessman. There was never any time to waste. So I’d say that to strike a balance, you need determination, commitment, passion for horses, and a spouse to flat your jumper!”

In January 2017, Kessler will officially take over the reins of the USEF. Realizing the culmination of a successful business career from which he recently retired, and his drive for recognizing and elevating equestrian passion, he comes to the volunteer position with a plan. A several hundred page strategic plan to be exact.

As a former chairman of two Fortune 500 public company boards, and a current board member of a Fortune 100 public company, Kessler feels he has learned the critical tenets of governance, including fairness, accountability, transparency, and above all else, integrity.

“These,” he says, “are universal principles that apply to both corporate governance and sport governance. As a CEO, it was my job to deliver results, but never at the expense of those principles. The same goes with sport governance.”

When asked about his vision for the USEF, he laid out two key concepts.

“First the USEF is currently an organization that people belong to because they HAVE to in order to compete. We want to change that to an organization people WANT to join because they get so much value from their membership. Essential to that concept is a new vision – to bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible – with a goal to promote and highlight the special bond between horse and rider in competition, and the joy that comes with it.”

Kessler plans to see this vision become a reality during his tenure as president. “My hope is our vision: to bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible. I’ll know that is happening if the sport is growing as measured by membership, viewership, member satisfaction surveys and the USA’s continued success on a global stage. This is not a figurehead position for me. I’d like to see demonstrable results. And as a rider, I just want to keep having fun and enjoying the sport.”

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n a recent interview Lucy Davis said simply, “I was someone who grew up as a pony-crazed girl that realized you can go for dreams and make championships a reality.”

At a mere twenty-four years of age, Davis has done just that.

Achieving medals and wins against veterans in the sport, she has natural talent, a keen sense of focus, a strong competitive spirit and a bright future. In 2016 she added a team silver medal at the Summer Olympics in Rio to her list of international successes.

A ‘graduate’ of the American hunter seat equitation and junior hunter arenas, Davis grew up in southern California and had years of show miles, building a solid foundation for when she moved into the jumper ring. Working with several trainers as a junior, including Archie Cox and Dick Carvin, Davis began working with the Beerbaums, Markus and Meredith, as she changed her focus solely to show jumping.

Davis cites her grandfather, Robert Barron Frieze, as a major influence in her riding career. In fact, her top mount, Barron, is named after him.

“Barron is the horse of a lifetime,” she noted. “But not easy. He is brave yet sensitive. He is a different horse at home than he is in the warm-up and than he is in the show ring. But after four years together we are in sync most of the time.”

One of Davis’s goals for 2017 is to branch out on her own with her horses, keeping about six on her string. “For the winter, Wellington is my base. I’m building my own business, and handling the horse care,” she explained. “I enjoy pairing people with horses that suit them, so I’ll be buying and selling, plus competing and focusing on my riding. I will likely return to Europe for competition this spring and summer, splitting my time between the continents in the future.”

LU C Y DAV I S

Davis’s goal is to be a member of the U.S. team at WEG in 2018 and to return to the Olympic Games in 2020. Barron will then be 16 years old, and she believes he will be a great partner in Tokyo.

In 2011, Davis won three grand prix classes within the span of a week on the HITS Desert Circuit, including topping her trainer Meredith Michaels Beerbaum. The next year Not one to rest on her she made the shortlist for equestrian talent alone, the Olympic Show Jumping Davis loved juggling Team, and by 2013, at age school and horses. Now 20, she had competed in her that she has completed her first FEI World Cup Finals undergraduate studies, she and represented the U.S. has jumped into a new on FEI Nations Cup teams, Lucy Davis competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics, photo © Diana De Rosa project,with her business won the Furusiyya Leading partner Lindsay Douglass.

Rider of the Day Award for a double-clear trip at Rotterdam, Conceptualizing, developing and now launching a brand new and clinched the blue in the Grand Prix of Lausanne, making iOS, PonyApp, the goal is to provide all parties involved with an her the youngest rider to win a Global Champions Tour Grand electronic and mobile system of management and organization.

Prix. The next year Davis contributed to the U.S. Show Jumping Management to invoicing, all in one app. Plus a spotlight on the Team’s bronze medal finish in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian top horses and riders with a news and video feed. Knowing that Games (WEG) in Normandy. building it is only the first step, which they’ve been working on In 2015, she won three different 5* Grand Prix events in three different countries, while also finding the time to graduate from Stanford University in June, with a degree in architecture.

Qualifying for the Olympics was the main focus of 2016. After success in the Observation Events at La Baule and St. Gallen, Davis was hopeful. When she received the news that she had made the team from U.S. Coach Robert Ridland, she was giddy. Not only was this one of her ‘pony-crazed’ dreams, but she would be riding with the same team she had earned the bronze medal with at the WEG in 2014. And, as many of us know, she helped bring home the team silver medal.

for about 18 months, Davis and Douglass have plans.

“We have a lot of marketing ideas in mind. Launching at major tours, large media campaigns, hosting events, going to stables in North America and Europe,” explained Davis. “We are in the testing phase, in California and Europe, but we will have a global release.”

Quiet, yet certainly intriguing, Lucy Davis is a millennial on the move – in the saddle and in business. Impressively driven, she will continue to leave her mark in and out of the arena for years to come.

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OUT&

about

H I T S N AT I O N A L S U N S H I N E S E R I E S – T H E R M A L , C A L I F O R N I A

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1. Rich Fellers and Flexible on their way to a win in the $34,600 HITS Welcome Stake FEI CSI-4* at National Sunshine Series 2. Pony exhibitors await the final result from the judge during a flat phase 3. The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airshow took place during Week 1 at NSS. Spectators from the airshow and the horse show could take a shuttle to experience both events on the same day 4. The new in-gate to the Grand Prix Ring at HITS Desert Horse Park 5. Exhibitors enjoyed plenty of room to practice and school during the two-week series 6. All smiles at National Sunshine Series 7. A beautiful view of the Grand Prix Ring and the distant mountains from the glass-enclosed VIP 8. Kevin Babington and Shorapur on their way to a $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix win at National Sunshine Series

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Photos © ESI Photography

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STYLE

profiles

by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

Trendy Trainer Iconpack, Samshield, $249 Custom Dream 2 Grip Boot, Der Dau, Contact for Price Prestige Windstopper Activeseam Show Jacket, Musto, $350 Women’s White StretchJersey Breeches, Cavalleria Toscana, $355 Monaco Competition Shirt, Alessandro Albanese, $190 English Radiant Reversible Belt, Ariat, $99

T E C H N I C A L LY SPEAKING Tech fabrics have long been a part of the equestrian fashion world; it has been over a decade since we happily said good-bye to high-waisted breeches and wool hunt coats. Each season, brands have been testing new and innovative ways to make our show clothes and tack work with us in the saddle. We can only imagine what the next few decades of fabric breakthroughs and style will bring. And while we are all still waiting for the app that allows our horses to text us heart emojis, at least in the meantime we can stay on the tech trend thread!

Ambient Amateur Marilyn Dress Boot, Tucci, $1,050 Noir Show Shirt, Noel Asmar, $148 Stretch-Jersey Jodhpurs, Cavalleria Toscana, $335 Tosca Competition Jacket, Pikeur, $250 Apple Watch, Hermès, $1,299 The Bit Belt, Rebecca Ray, $90

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Jovial Junior Lance Ladies Show Jacket, Animo, $720 Nicola Women’s Knee Patch Breeches, B Vertigo, $180 Boule Bracelet w/ Boot Charm, Gucci, $360 Women’s Snaffle Bit Belt, Mango Bay Design, $19 FEI Monaco LX Boot, Ariat, $1,050 Aero Show Shirt, Ariat, $164

Pony Mom Ariana Superlight Jacket, Alessandro Albanese, $150 Braided Crystal Belt, Anky Australia, $179 Galop Bracelet, Hermès, $1,450 Heritage III Zip Paddock Boot, Ariat, $140 Le Garcon Mid-Rise Slim Boyfriend Jeans, Frame, $210 Ringside Backpack, Schockemöhle Sports, $79

Gorgeous Gent Secretariat Rider’s Watch, Hunter Harmony, $545 Riding Boot, Veredus Guarnieri, $900 Classic Men’s Show Shirt, Kingsland, $75 Rodrigo Men’s Knee Patch Breeches, Pikeur, $340 Premium Helmet, Samshield, $590 Oxer Belt, Parlanti, $158

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OUT&

about

WEST PALM EVENTS CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FALL CL ASSIC & OAK TREE CL ASSIC – PASO ROBLES HORSE PARK, PASO ROBLES, CA

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1. Jennifer Rawlings gives her horse a well deserved pat after her round 2. Chillin' at Coral Reef 3. The gorgeous Paso Robles Horse Park grounds 4. Mandy Porter & Coral Reef Follow Me II 5. John French and Tivoli Z, winners of the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby 6. Adult Amateur Working Hunter 50 & Over Champion, Gillett Brescia (L), and Reserve Champion, Jenny Calandra (R), with Marc Grock 7. No better place for a walk than the show grounds!

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Photos © Alden Corrigan Media

LOOKING AHEAD

Introducing

A brand of

#EquilineAmerica

FEATURE

by Emily Pollard

HORSE SHOW BUCKET LIST

Longines Masters of Paris

Photo © Sarah Appel

A D E D I C AT E D FA N BA S E The communal energy in the arena when a rider is on course is palpable.

The incredible crowd and compelling energy for the sport in Paris is akin to what Americans are used to seeing at professional basketball and baseball games: the fans know and love their riders! During the Longines Speed Challenge, when a rider was having a good go or needed some encouragement, the spectators would holler out a good, drawn out “allllllller!” meaning “go” in French. As the class progressed, the cheers grew louder and as it became clear France’s own Kevin Staut and Julien Epaillard were going to place 1st and 2nd respectively, you could not even hear yourself think over the roar of the crowd!

Honoring the Longines Masters of Paris with a spot on Horse & Style’s horse show bucket list could come at no better time than one issue after Jackie McFarland’s article “Fielding Dreams: The Longines Masters of Los Angeles.”

In her article, McFarland shares details about Christophe Ameeuw’s dream for the Longines Masters of LA, as well as the entire three show Masters series that includes Paris and Hong Kong. From reading her article and experiencing the show, it is clear that the Longines Masters of LA is bucket list-worthy all on its own. However, to experience the Longines Masters of Paris and witness how Ameeuw’s same event template unfolds in a European setting is nothing less than aweinspiring. So many aspects of the Longines Masters of Paris are spectacular and bucket list-worthy: the infectious enthusiasm of the fans, the lineup of top competitors and level of prize money at stake, the concurrent hosting of Salon Du Cheval, and the close proximity to downtown Paris. This is a show that should not be missed!

As wild and outwardly encouraging as the crowd could be, it was also incredible to see their quiet reserve and respect for the riders during Sunday’s final 1.60 meter Grand Prix. As riders took to the course, the packed crowd fell absolutely silent.

If a rail came down or there was a close call, you might hear the crowd sigh a soft “awww…” only to be met quickly with a soft “shhhh…” as the audience reminded one another not to disturb the rider who was still concentrating and at work.

This passion was no more apparent than when Kent Farrington (USA) on Creedance suffered a heartbreaking broken stirrup leather over the first jump.

The crowd “awwwed” in an effort to share their disappointment, until they realized Farrington was heading for the next jump anyway with both stirrups kicked off. The crowd quietly “awwwed,” “oohhhed!” and correspondingly “shhhed” over the course of the incredible, stirrupless go until Farrington pulled up after two rails down. Once he was safely at a standstill, the crowd went wild in appreciation for Farrington’s riding and perseverance. Being among the Longines Masters of Paris crowd is an unforgettable experience!

STRIVING FOR A ‘SLAM’ The Longines Masters of Paris invites the world’s best athletes to compete for high stakes. The Longines Speed Challenge offered €100,000 in prize money. Sunday’s Longines Grand Prix CSI5* had a purse of €300,000 plus a bit of extra incentive with the Grand Slam Indoor challenge.

If a rider accomplishes three consecutive victories in the Longines Grand Prix from one season to the next, that individual january/february ·

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would earn a Grand Slam and a €1 Million bonus.

Kent Farrington and Creedance navigate the course stirrupless, photo © Sarah Appel

Even more exciting is the potential for a Super Grand Slam which awards a €2.25 Million bonus for a triple consecutive Longines Grand Prix victory starting in Los Angeles, then Paris and Hong Kong in the same season. Longines Masters of Los Angeles winner, Daniel Deusser, had the crowd on the edge of their seats in anticipation of a second win toward a Super Grand Slam. However, Deusser ultimately finished third on the podium with Gregory Wathelet (GER) taking first place and Bertram Allen (IRE) taking second. From the USA, Lauren Hough was tenth and McLain Ward eleventh among the class of 45 riders that included Audrey Coulter, Kent Farrington, and Lucy Davis as well.

Undeniably, the superb prize money, plus the Grand Slam and Super Grand Slam challenges attract the best to the Longines Masters of Paris each year.

S A LO N D U C H E VA L 2016 marked the 45th anniversary of Salon Du Cheval, the largest event for equestrians and horse enthusiasts in France, and visiting the event really is an experience that deserves its own article.

For two weeks each year, 450 exhibitors, 2,000 horses, and 150,000 visitors take over the enormous Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, an area that is separated from the Longines Masters of Paris competition by only a short hallway.

Patrons with tickets to both events can walk back and forth, utilizing the time before, after, or between classes at the show to get all their holiday shopping done. At Salon Du Cheval, tackling your holiday shopping list is an easy feat. From horses, trailers, saddles, riding clothes, jewelry, to riding vacations – everything equine is for sale! It is nearly impossible to leave this extravaganza empty handed.

If patrons need a break from walking and shopping, the shows and exhibitions provide ample seated entertainment. From open to close each day, the three arenas inside the center offer non-stop action from the best of a variety of disciplines – show jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, vaulting, horseball and western riding.

There is something for every equestrian interest. It is so refreshing to see incredible horses and ponies from other parts of the world happily performing. Other shows in the program include educational seminars about the ethology, well-being, and health

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Salon du Cheval shopping, photo © PSV Photos, courtesy of EEM

Gregory Wathelet (GER) celebrates victory, photo Š Sarah Appel

Prestige Village transformed, photo Š PSV Photos, courtesy of EEM

All legs of the Longines Masters feature extraordinary entertainment, photo © PSV Photos, courtesy of EEM

of the horse, as well as on breeding and sales. For the shopping, exhibitions and learning opportunities, Salon du Cheval is bucket list-worthy all on its own!

LO C AT I O N , LO C AT I O N , LO C AT I O N The horse show and Salon Du Cheval are both so engrossing, it is easy to forget downtown Paris is only a thirty minute train ride away. But if ever there were a bucket list reason, a visit to Paris is certainly one! Once downtown, it is incredible to see how many historic monuments are scattered amidst modern day conveniences. In one selfie, you can capture yourself, the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, built in the early 1800s, and a modern drug store in the background.

Paris also offers the best in culinary dishes and the corresponding wine pairings, of course. Step into any authentic, tuckedaway cafe and order Eggs en Cocotte, Soupe à L’oignon, and the house Beaujolais for a midday treat. Afterwards, spend some money on yourself shopping on Avenue des Champs-Elysees, which has an interesting mix of big name stores and traditional French shops. With an incredible horse show so close to downtown Paris, going to the Longines Masters of Paris is really like experiencing two vacations in one.

SO MUCH TO OFFER The Longines Masters of Paris has so much to offer, much of it before entering the main arena. The indoor warmup arena is surrounded by the Prestige Village, a selection of shopping, fine art and culinary vendors that are so exceptional, many visitors buy a ticket exclusive to that section of the grounds. They shop, eat, sit at the warm up and watch the main events from overhead TVs that broadcast the competition in live time. The Prestige Village also plays host to an exciting night life. After each night’s classes the area was transformed into a packed nightclub complete with drinks, great music, and dancing that lasted into the early morning hours.

Crowds watch riders warm-up while shopping in the Prestige Village, photo © PSV Photos, courtesy of EEM

It will be exciting to watch Christophe Ameeuw bring this level of excitement and passion for the sport of international show jumping to the west coast, and everyone should plan to attend the Longines Masters of Los Angeles. But certainly, for its crowd, competition, shopping, and location, the Longines Masters of Paris deserves a stand-alone spot on every show jumping enthusiast’s horse show bucket list. january/february ·

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OUT&

about

L O N G I N E S M A S T E R S O F PA R I S – PA R I S , F R A N C E

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1. Every evening Prestige Village offered visitors the chance to dance to live music before the DJ started playing for the night 2. Kent Farrington and Creedance – with stirrups on! 3. Morocco’s Abdelkebir Ouaddar and Quickly de Kreisker were definite crowd favorites during the Longines Grand Prix CSI5* 4. Audrey Coulter looking stylish on course 5. The winners of the Longines Speed Challenge, left to right – Julien Epaillard (FRA) 2nd place, Kevin Staut (FRA) 1st place and McLain Ward (USA) 3rd place 6. Bertram Allen’s (IRL) Hector van d'Abdijhoeve celebrates with a buck after a clean round in the Longines Grand Prix CSI5*

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Photos © Ashley Neuhof (2,3,4,6,9) & PSV Photos, courtesy of EEM (1,5,7,8,10,11)

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7. Ringmaster Pedro Cebulka and French actor and equestrian Guillaume Canet 8. A day after walking for the 2016 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, French model Cindy Bruna poses for a picture at Thursday night’s gala 9. Lorenzo de Luca gives a big smile after his first place win on Limestone Grey in the Laiterie de Montaigu Trophy CSI5* 10. Daniel Deusser (GER) and Equita van T Zorgvliet over the signature Longines Masters series #weridetheworld jump 11. Stilt walkers pose with the Longines clock during the gala

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TREND

report

by Sarah Appel & Kelsey Langsdale

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1. Noel Asmar All Weather Rider, $320; 2. Animo NASPRE Breeches, $369; 3. Hunter Women’s Original Tall Gloss Rain Boots, $105; 4. Sarm Hippique NIZZA Fleece Show Shirt, $180; 5. Karen Kane Cowl Neck Handkerchief Top, $79

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Pardon my Plum Everything is coming up plum! A great alternative to black, this deep purple is a signature hue of the winter months, and always pairs flawlessly with black and gray. The subtle moodiness of this winter jewel tone is perfectly “plumming” up the runways and is trickling down from mainstream fashion to the best of equestrian brands. So make no apologies for your pop of plum this season!

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PHOTO: KRISTIN LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

2017 SHOW SCHEDULE

SAVE THE DATE

SANTA BARBARA SURFSIDE CLASSIC

HUNTINGTON BEACH SUMMER CLASSIC

SANTA BARBARA SUNSHINE CLASSIC

FLINTRIDGE AUTUMN CLASSIC

Feb 22 - 26, Santa Barbara, CA

March 1 - 5, Santa Barbara, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA WELCOME CLASSIC

March 8 - 12, Paso Robles, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA ZINFANDEL CLASSIC

March 15 - 19, Paso Robles, CA

August 10 - 13, Huntington Beach, CA Sept 28 - Oct 1, La Cañada Flintridge, CA

SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL WELCOME WEEK

Sept 27 - Oct 1, Rancho Murieta, CA

SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL WORLD CUP WEEK October 4 - 8, Rancho Murieta, CA

LA EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL

DEL MAR INTERNATIONAL WELCOME WEEK

96TH ANNUAL FLINTRIDGE HORSE SHOW

DEL MAR INTERNATIONAL WORLD CUP WEEK

DEL MAR NATIONAL

DEL MAR INTERNATIONAL SEASON FINALE

April 20 - 23, Burbank, CA

April 27 - 30, La Cañada Flintridge, CA May 2 - 7, Del Mar, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA MEMORIAL DAY CLASSIC

May 24 - 28, Paso Robles, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA CLASSIC May 31 - June 4, Paso Robles, CA

HUNTINGTON BEACH SURF CLASSIC

October 11 - 15, Del Mar, CA

October 18 - 22, Del Mar, CA

October 25 - 29, Del Mar, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FALL CLASSIC

November 1 - 5, Paso Robles, CA

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA OAK TREE CLASSIC

November 8 - 12, Paso Robles, CA

July 6 - 9, Huntington Beach, CA

WWW.WESTPALMSEVENTS.COM

DINING

by Laurie Berglie

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Photo © Genevieve Leiper Photography

THE

RED FOX INN & TAVERN M I D D L E B U R G , VA

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f you head west from Washington, D.C., you’ll find Middleburg, Virginia, a posh equestrian enclave nestled in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Middleburg, a well-heeled foxhunting community, is known for its history and luxury, and a drive through the countryside or a stroll down East Washington Street does not disappoint.

The list of things to see and do in Middleburg is long. There’s the National Sporting Library and Museum, Tri-County Feeds, Middleburg Tack Exchange, numerous antique shops and cafés, and the most historic gem of them all, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern. Established in 1728, The Red Fox is steeped in lore of the Revolutionary and the Civil Wars and provides both locals and visitors alike with a traditional, timeless setting in the heart of Hunt Country.

A S TO R I E D PA S T Originally named Chinn’s Ordinary, The Red Fox resides in the center of the village at 2 East Washington

Photo © Duane Heaton

Street and is built from local fieldstone.

This locale was a popular rest area for travelers (and their horses) making the journey from Winchester and surrounding areas to Washington, D.C., and Alexandria,Virginia. In its almost 300 years, The Red Fox has seen its fair share of politicians, celebrities, authors, and athletes, as well as local foxhunters and farmers, walk through its front door.

Notably, President John F. Kennedy held a press conference in the JEB Stuart Room. After his untimely death, Jackie Kennedy Onassis regularly visited The Red Fox, staying overnight in one of the rooms while foxhunting nearby during the season. Actress Elizabeth Taylor often dined in their Tap Room during her marriage to U.S. Senator from Virginia, John Warner.

My husband, James, and I had the good fortune of dining at The Red Fox on a perfect brisk autumn day in midNovember. The sun was shining as we drove south from our farm in Maryland, and we arrived just as the sun was setting behind brilliant white cotton clouds. We had reservations and were immediately seated at what I considered

Photo © Laura Luís Photography

Photo © Laura Luís Photography

one of the best tables in the room – by the fireplace in which a roaring fire added an intimate flair to the cozy room.

HEART Y HUNT C O U N T RY FA R E Our attentive waitress joined us shortly thereafter, and we placed orders for two Hot Spiked Ciders. They were the perfect way to open our meal, especially on a cool fall evening, and they filled the air around us with the sweet, tangy aroma of cider and cinnamon. For his starter, James chose the Baked Brie Wedge, which was warm brie wrapped in a puff pastry and complemented with mango chutney. He finished the entire serving by himself in what felt like seconds, so I think it was safe to say he enjoyed it!

I ordered a “side” portion of the Red Fox House Salad,which was just the right size to keep me from being too full for my upcoming entrée.

While we waited for our main dishes to arrive, the dining rooms began to fill up, and the air felt warm and festive. The dim lighting completed the cozy, almost romantic

atmosphere. The equestrian paintings, sculptures, and antique silver cups adorning the mantle and flanking each side of the fireplace helped create a lovely ambiance.

Instead of his usual steak, James chose the Chicken Cordon Bleu which was stuffed with country ham and fontina, and decked with smashed red jacket potatoes, shredded Brussel sprouts, and mornay sauce. I thoroughly enjoyed the Hickory Bourbon Glazed Salmon, grilled to perfection, on a bed of goat cheese grits and butternut squash fettuccine. Even though salmon is my go-to and I loved my meal, if I’m being honest, they had me at “goat cheese grits!”

Both of our entrées were divine.

As you can imagine, by the meal’s end we were stuffed to the brim, but we somehow made room for dessert and split the Decadent Chocolate Torte! Paired with a regular coffee, the dark chocolate torte with warm berry compote and vanilla bean ice cream was a fabulous way to end an exquisite meal at one of the nation’s oldest taverns.

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A ROOM FOR EVERY OCC ASION On our way out, I gave myself a brief tour of the rest of the building where a variety of rooms are available for weddings and other intimate gatherings. Additionally, if you enjoy your time at The Red Fox and want to extend your stay for the night, they offer guest rooms fitted with the traditional equestrian furnishings you would expect from historic Middleburg.

The Red Fox Inn & Tavern is currently managed by the husband and wife team of Matilda Reuter and Jonathan Engle, and together they have continued to preserve the rich heritage of this bona fide Virginia landmark. From the moment I set foot in the Inn, my entire experience could only be described as magical, and I most certainly will be back.

If you are in the area, stop in for breakfast, dinner, or brunch (Saturdays and Sundays only), and sample this Hunt Country gem for yourself!

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feature

by Jennifer Wood/Jump Media

Victoria

Lowell

Leaving her Mark on Horse Sport Victoria “Vicki” Lowell’s first horse was a two-year-old Quarter Horse her father found just up the road from their Oklahoma home for $150. Once that horse was sold, after jumping out of one too many paddocks, Lowell turned to hunt seat lessons. She moved to the East Coast at 12 years old and soon began attending local shows in the irons of an off-the-track Thoroughbred.

When Lowell left for college she took a hiatus from the equestrian world, but would never fully leave it behind. After establishing her professional goals and saving up a horse fund, Lowell returned to the industry in her early 30s and it has shaped her career, her passions, and her life.

Vicki Lowell riding as a young child

FOND MEMORIES OF WIHS Lowell rode as an adult amateur under the tutelage of Laura Pickett when she re-entered the horse world. She would later donate the Laura Pickett Trophy for Excellence in Horsemanship to the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) in memory of her trainer who lost a five-year battle against breast cancer at just 52 years old. This perpetual trophy is not the only lasting mark Lowell has made on WIHS. As President of WIHS, Lowell has seen the historic and cherished event grow in a variety of ways. Climbing the ranks of FEI competition to a 4* show, being named a member of the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League, reaching number seven on the North American Riders Group Top 25 ranking list, and continually increasing prize money as well as FEI ranking points are just some of the advances she is proud to have seen WIHS achieve during her tenure as President.

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“Each year the show seems to get better and better with more corporate and personal sponsors and more entries, drawing the very top ranked U.S. riders,” said Lowell. “WIHS is a truly unique and historic show, so the team’s vision has always been to make it more than a horse show – to make it a ‘show’ and to make a difference.”

WIHS is one of the few truly non-profit shows left on today’s show jumping circuit, partnering with local and national charities each year to proudly raise funds for worthy non-profit organizations. In 2016, WIHS teamed up with charities such as the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Capital Breast Care Center, USET Foundation, and helped raise awareness for the Humane Rescue Alliance, Teach for America, Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program, and DC Bike Ride.

2 0 16 H I G H L I G H T S Continuing on the well-established path that Lowell helped pave, WIHS welcomed some of the members of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Silver Medal show jumping team. Olympians Beezie Madden, Kent Farrington, McLain Ward, and Laura Kraut were among the starstudded list of show jumpers that represented six nations, including Belgium, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, and Russia.

With an impressive field of international competitors, it was U.S. rider Lauren Hough who raised the President’s Cup as winner of the $130,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Washington, presented by Events DC. “We work hard to make the show special by celebrating all riders, but most notably Team USA in the nation’s capitol, as well as many legends of the sport,” continued Lowell.

Frank Chapot joined moguls of horse sport, such as Rodney Jenkins and Betty Oare, as the 2016 inductee into the WIHS Hall of Fame, while the inaugural presentation of the George Morris Style of Riding Award at WIHS went to McLain Ward. While the atmosphere is electric throughout the week, the quiet moments that honor great riders and great people are some of Lowell’s most cherished times at WIHS. “I remember standing between McLain Ward and George Morris presenting the George Morris Style Award and thinking ‘How did I get here?’” recalled Lowell. “I will also never forget walking the President’s Cup course with Kalyn Curtis from the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and being amazed by what a brave and remarkable little girl she is.

“I will also probably not soon forget taking a spill at the third jump in this year’s WIHS Adult Jumper Championship 15 years after winning it,” she said with a laugh. “I am always grateful for a sport that keeps you humble!”

Outside the competition ring, Lowell’s direction for WIHS has continued to be one of service, community engagement, and top sport. Examples include a free ticket program for military members and first responders, which has distributed more than 21,000 tickets since its inception; creating signature events like the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series, presented by Charles Owen; and taking to the streets to honor Mounted Police forces and offering a free Kids’ Day to 1,000 local D.C. children and their families.

“These are the moments I really treasure,” she said. “Bringing horses and people together in the city I love.”

Andrew Ramsay, George Morris, and Vicki Lowell present McLain Ward with the "George Morris Style of Riding Award", photo © Shawn McMillen

L-R: A photo from Lowell’s course-walk with Kalyn Curtis from TAPS at the Washington International Horse Show; Top U.S. equestrians and Olympic Show Jumping team members are recognized at WIHS (L-R: Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, Kent Farrington and Chef d'Equipe, Robert Ridland), photo © Shawn McMillen

A N E W PAT H W I T H U S E F With unwavering dedication in her volunteer role as President of WIHS, Lowell made a move in 2016 to make horse sport a part of her professional endeavors. After 15 years at Discovery Communications where she led marketing for Animal Planet and TLC and nine years before that with Procter & Gamble leading the Cover Girl Cosmetics brand, Lowell was again drawn even closer to horses and accepted a position with the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) as Chief Marketing and Content Officer.

“The USEF is in the process of a major shift in direction with a new strategic plan under the leadership of President Murray Kessler,” said Lowell who served on the Board of Directors for the USEF for the past three years. “I always felt there was an opportunity for the USEF to become a more consumer-centric organization. With the new vision, I saw a chance to lead a department focused on growing membership, redefining the brand, and making exciting content, including the USEF Network, U.S. Equestrian Magazine, and an all-new U.S. Equestrian Learning Center, which is a project we are currently working on.”

Lowell maintains that she has always been hopeful that her career in business and marketing and her passion for horses would merge, but admits she didn’t picture a position with the governing body of U.S. horse sport.

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“I always envisioned continuing on a volunteer basis, but then this position just worked out,” she said. “My immediate goal is to spearhead a relaunch and successful rollout of the new U.S. Equestrian brand, ad campaign, membership drive, and strategic plan. I want to bring the new vision of the USEF to life, which is to bring the joy of horse sports to as many people as possible.”

As Lowell’s roles in horse sport, now including rider, show organizer, and marketing professional, come together under a common goal, she says that she is right where she wants to be.

“WIHS gives me the perspective of being an organizer, and organizers are critical to the USEF. It puts me close to a segment of our competing members and fan base,” said Lowell. “I think overall this is just a natural fit.”

Coming from the grassroots to the governing body with decades of experience in-between, Lowell continues to make her mark on horse sport, but remains grateful to the many people who helped her along the way. “I am so thankful to my parents for the sacrifices they made so I could have my early horse experiences, and for making me believe that anything is possible if you work hard for it,” concluded Lowell. “I must also thank Kim Prince, my trainer and very dear friend, who has patiently taught me so much and given me first-hand exposure to the very best in the sport.”

WIHS.ORG

The best show jumping experience in Palm Beach returns to Deeridge Farms.

Join us February 2-5 as the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Wellington returns to Deeridge Farms, at the 2017 CP Palm Beach Masters presented by Sovaro.ÂŽ Visit palmbeachmasters.com for more information.

TM

OUT&

about

OLYMPIA HORSE SHOW – LONDON , ENGL AND

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1. Daniel Deusser and Equita van T Zorgvliet made the challenging €110,000 Olympia Grand Prix course look easy, adding another major win to their record 2. The Portuguese Lusitanos put on an impressive drill team performance as part of the pre-show entertainment 3. Olympia’s Christmas Finale had a fabulous circus theme 4. H&M Rider Nicola Philippaerts and H&M Quenzo de la Roque placed 3rd in Sunday’s Longines FEI World Cup™ class 5. A home-crowd favorite, John Whitaker, was greeted by a roaring sold-out crowd each time he entered the arena 6. Pint-sized Tabitha Kyle and Borderhill William competing in the H&S Mistletoe Mini Stakes 7. József Dobrovitz of Hungary and his stunning four-in-hand team competing in the thrilling FEI World Cup™ Driving Leg presented by Dodson & Horrell

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Photos © Christopher Demers

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8. Bertram Allen and High Valley size up Marcus Ehning’s formidable steed 9. “Alright Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up.” – Valegro soaked up his time in the spotlight during his retirement ceremony 10. Rio silver-medalist Peder Fredricson and Uncle Blue looking sharp 11. Laura Kraut flew through the Longines FEI World Cup™ course on Zeremonie before dashing to the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2016 awards, where her partner Nick Skelton was honored 12. Great Britain’s Scott Brash had a very successful show, winning the Longines FEI World Cup™ and achieving top placings in several other classes 13. Santi Serra’s beautifully choreographed performance was the highlight of the pre-show entertainment

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WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER Junior Rider Clinics

LEARN EARN

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For more information email:

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C U R A T E D by an

by Laurie Berglie

equestrian

Elizabeth Wiley

"White Horse," 2016, acrylic on canvas

Horse & Style invites you to enjoy the first installment of “Curated by an Equestrian,” a new feature that will spotlight a talented equestrian artist. We’d like to welcome our first artist, Elizabeth Wiley from Dallas, Texas, whose easily identifiable abstract equestrian art has been showcased throughout the world. january/february ·

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C O M B I N I N G T W O PA S S I O N S Wiley grew up in Abilene, Texas, and always knew she wanted to be an artist. “My mom is artistic and creative, so I grew up helping her with her projects. She got me involved in art at a very early age and always encouraged me to take pottery, painting, and craft classes. There were never any limits. If we wanted to try something new, we just did it.”

Crate & Barrel about using her paintings in their catalogues as props. Over the course of 15 years, Wiley’s work has continued to grow, but she believes she has found her niche in the equestrian market.

In addition to inspiring her daughter’s creative side, Wiley’s mom also encouraged her love of horses. Wiley learned to ride dressage at a barn called Pegasus Stables not far from her family’s home. She remembers spending as much free time at the barn as possible – she even got the school bus to drop her off there after school. It wasn’t long before Wiley began to combine her two passions, horses and art.

Wiley describes her work as, “contemporary equestrian fine art for every budget.” At first glance, some of her paintings appear to be watercolor, but most are actually acrylic.

“Acrylic compliments my impatience as I tend to work on 4–5 paintings at the same time. My paintings have many layers, so I’ll work on one painting for a little while, then set it aside to dry as I work on the next. I keep rotating them until they’re finished.

I’m always interested in learning to use a new material and technique. Sometimes I discover a better way to achieve the end results, but sometimes I’m reminded of why it’s better to keep to the old ways.”

After high school, she studied Fine Art at The University of Texas at Arlington and then studied under a local artist. In 2011, Wiley began selling her paintings on Etsy.

Shortly thereafter, she was contacted by

CO N S TA N T C R E AT I V E EVOLUTION Wiley is constantly challenging herself by trying new methods to accomplish the results she’s after, and she states that she

"Jumper," work in progress, acrylic on canvas

learns something from each and every piece she completes. “My objective is to create paintings that will reflect and compliment the space they occupy,” says Wiley. “I have found it easier to create something for a specific space than to create something that doesn’t know where it’s going to live. This also helps the creative process start.”

She also lets the creative process flow by just painting the next thing that’s rolling around in her head. She doesn’t force it, but she’s constantly trying to enhance her art. “As I paint, I’m always thinking about how I could have made it different or better, so my work is always slowly evolving. I don’t ever want to get to a point where I don’t have any more ideas.”

Some of Wiley’s ideas and influences come from other artists whose work she admires, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in particular.

“I was fortunate to see his work in person here in Dallas a few years back. It was amazing – the balance of abstraction and representation, the playfulness of the lines.

"Stakes Horse," 2016, acrylic on canvas

"Bright Horse and Rider," 2015, acrylic on canvas

I can see graphic elements in my art that are manifestations of my fascination with his work.”

Wiley also notes that she admires Willem de Kooning’s ability to use lines to create movement and emotion. She has also learned a valuable lesson from Helen Frankenthaler, which is: there are no rules. “When we go against the rules or ignore the rules, we are freed to have the breakthroughs that expand our world.

Invention is not the result of understanding all the rules – it is what happens when you discover where they are misunderstood.”

OUTSIDE HER COMFORT ZONE Wiley has been known for painting English-disciplined horses such as dressage and hunters, but she recently launched a new series dedicated to the racehorse.

“I’m always looking to capture all the different and wonderful situations in which we interact with horses. A friend of mine created a beautiful line of derby hats called SMartHats.com that were featured at our

local racetrack, and she suggested that I share my horse paintings there. My work up to this point consisted mostly of dressage and jumping horses, not exactly the kind of image a horse racing enthusiast is looking to invest in. Seizing on this previously untapped genre of racehorses, I was inspired to create a series of paintings that captured the spirit of competition given off by these beautiful creatures.”

While the Racehorse Series was a slight step in another direction, Wiley says she’s getting ready to step completely out of her comfort zone of painting horses and begin a series of old churches. “Anytime we are traveling and come across an old church, I make sure we stop to take pictures. The inspiration to turn this interest into my next project came from my friends who, after seeing photos of the churches that inspired me, encouraged me to create something new from these historic buildings.”

Wiley is certain, however, that she’ll return to painting horses with renewed vigor after this current project is completed.

PA I N T I N G A BRIGHT FUTURE While we never know what the future will hold, Wiley expects she will always be holding a paintbrush. When asked what her professional life will look like 10 years from now, she said, “I’m sure I’ll still be painting, and maybe one day I’ll open a little gallery.

I dream about a vacation home/studio/ gallery in Connecticut that’s only open during the summer. Texas is wonderful, but our summers can be brutal.”

Until that day, Wiley can be found in Dallas, Texas, raising her two kids with her husband, and painting full-time. Her equestrian work is on display at her studio (hours by appointment only), which is located at: 9995 Monroe Drive, Suite 121, Dallas, TX 75220. Finally, find her on Instagram @lizwiley to learn more about Wiley and her life as an equestrian artist!

lizwiley.com

|

lizwiley.etsy.com

All photos © Michael & Elizabeth Wiley

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TriValley Classic horse shows

Mark Your Calendars!

June 4Th

July 16Th

Sept. 10Th

Join us for Special Classes · Equitation Challenges Gamblers Choice Jumpers · Hunter Derbies Cross Rails to 3’3 Also enjoy judges feedback and free photography

Located at Shiloh West Equestrian Center - 10250 Crow Canyon Rd., Castro Valley, CA. Questions? Call Carolyne Erlach, Show Manager - (805) 705-2317.

www.TriValleyClassicHorseShow.com

A S K dr.

Q:

carrie

What do I do when I feel badly about myself when competing with a barn-mate? We are both accomplished riders and take turns being on top, but sometimes I find myself feeling terrible when warming up with her. How do I train my brain to focus on my ride instead of the bad feeling?

A: Q:

Typically when a non-aggressive person triggers us, it means there is something inside of ourselves that needs tending. Take your emotional reaction and flip it upside down by looking at what you need to focus on inside of you to feel more empowered. If the issue you have with this person is her competitiveness, perhaps you need to work on increasing your competitive nature or approach.

If this person brings up issues of ability, then maybe you need to shift your focus to executing specific skills.

If you feel diminished in any way around this person, use their presence as a cue to reconnect to your strengths and intentions. We can blame others for our weaknesses or we can engage with the challenges another person brings up in us and refocus on intentions that increase personal growth and performance. Use these challenges as fuel for paying attention to your growth as an athlete. Most, if not all, athletes have people in their lives that can be construed as foes but in reality are there to help us improve.

I have met many goals this year and plan to give my horses some well deserved time off. How do I keep my mental practice growing during the off-season and be ready to pick up where I ended after the holidays?

A:

Mindfulness practices are essential during the off-season and can also help with the underlying stress of the holidays. I encourage you to reflect on your last few shows and make a list of the suggestions your trainer gave you, in the warm up ring as well as at the back gate.

the coming season.You may find that some of the challenges you experience in the show ring are emotional or focus oriented, not technical. Getting clear on your issues will help you redefine your mental practice to support you on your personal growth path.

Take some time to mentally review your rounds, or watch videos if you have them, to see which questions were asked of you in the ring that you struggled to answer. Make a list of these challenges and then the emotions that arise when thinking about each challenge.

If the long ride to the single oxer causes you to get outside of the rhythm and start thinking about ‘what ifs,’ write down a remedial intention like ‘take my time, keep leg on, and breathe.’

If you are dealing with emotions in the ring, this tells you that you may need to increase your focus on intentions that will direct your actions, rather than on feelings. Process feelings about riding that are stimulated by the intensity of being in the ring after you have competed and debriefed with your trainer.

This will support you by keeping your learning mind engaged when executing.Your emotions are equally important to address but are more easily understood once the heightened adrenaline that is essential for optimum performance has settled. Although this is an off-season reassessment practice, it is useful year round.

When you restart your training, bring your list to the trainer so she can create exercises that will help during

Dr. Carrie Wicks divides her time between her private sport psychology consulting and family therapy practice, traveling with athletes, and writing. She completed her doctorate in psychology while researching the mental practices of equestrian athletes. Her passions include horses, yoga, mountain biking, skiing, and time in nature with animals. If you would like to ask a question for this column or ask about a complimentary Performance Strategy session, please contact Carrie.

Carrie Wicks, Ph.D. | Photo © Ashley Neuhof

carrie@carriewicks.com

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drcarriewicks.com january/february ·

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B E H I N D the

lens

Tiffany Van Halle Van Halle’s journey with photography began in 2003 in her family’s backyard barn. A friendly boarder owned several Arabian horses that were stunning and photogenic, so he flew a professional photographer from Florida to take pictures that would capture their beauty in print form. When Van Halle saw the pictures, she realized she wanted to apply that same type of artistic photography to the incredible sport of international show jumping.

Her first camera was small and amateurish, but with each picture she took, she got better and better.

After her first paying photography job, she invested in a professional camera, and her career really took off. She started publishing her photographs on her Facebook account, and it proved a great way to build a platform with viewers and customers.

People following her account could instantly see pictures and results from some of the world’s best international show jumping competitions.

As her photography gained notoriety, she sold several images to magazines and websites, and soon started working for two Belgian media companies. During that time she learned a lot about photography, and about the business in general. And while she is thankful for that experience, two years ago she founded her own media company, vygo, and now absolutely loves working for herself. She feels fortunate to be able to combine her work with her passion, and to have the opportunity to share the sport of international show jumping with the grooms, riders and fans.

Website & Facebook Page: vygo.be Instagram @tiffanyorlando

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WHERE TO FIND

Shop these select tack store locations in the United States and Canada to purchase your copy of Horse & Style!

Do you want to see Horse & Style near you?

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Equi-Products Highway 22X W Calgary, AB, Canada

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The Tackeria

12501 S. Shore Blvd.

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CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S & T H A N KS Congratulations to all of the winners from December’s 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway, and thank you to our generous sponsors: Mango Bay Design, Spiced Equestrian, Equi in Style, Hampton Ivy, Riata Designs, Tucker Tweed, Asmar Equestrian, Stable + Sea, Fabulous Horse, Essex Classics, Ariat, and AA Platinum!

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C A N you

stand it ?

by Emily Pollard

Believe in Burgundy

The Stick & Ball Palermo Soho bag gives us a bad case of the “gotta have its!� Made in the U.S.A. with Italian vegetable tanned leather, lined with natural suede, and finished with brass hardware, this is the perfect tote.

Whether you use it for gallivanting around town, or as your signature travel bag, this roomy, burgundy beauty will become your intsa-bestie the second you get your hands on it!

Palermo Soho Bag, Stick & Ball, $1,250.00

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Somewhere between work and home

T H E R E ’ S A PL A C E WH E R E Y O U CA N CR E A T E HA P P I N E S S It’s a place where you’re welcome any day of the week, a place you can escape to on the weekend, and a place that simply takes your breath away.

That place is the Bay Club.

Visit bayclubplay.com for your free 3-day pass and to find a club near you.

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WINTERS IN OCALA HAVE NEVER BEEN BETTER W O R L D E Q U E S T R I A N C E N T E R AT G O L D E N O C A L A Become a National Member of Golden Ocala today where boots and breeches are always welcome. World class amenities include a 18-hole championship golf course, six Har-Tru Hydro Grid tennis courts, three exclusive restaurants, state-of-the-art itness center, an Equestrian Center and six miles of picturesque, private riding trails. For more on club beneits or to take advantage of our exclusive National Membership for $2,000 with the initiation fee waived, contact Golden Ocala today at 888.551.0983.

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