Horse & Style Magazine July/August 2017

JULY/AUG

T H E T R AV E L I S S U E

Golden Ocala DES TIN ATION: AFRIC AN SAFARI

2017

Golf & Equestrian Club

T R AV E L : PATAG O N E • LO S O L I VO S : A C U R AT E D C OA S TA L E X P E R I E N C E

Congratulations Conformation Hunter

High Performance

Amateur Owner Hunter 3'6"

Low Children's Jumper

Adult Jumper

Young Jumper 5 Year Olds

Little Boy Balou | Ashely Hurteau C. Theodore | Cannon Thomas

Boss's Bentley | Ashely Hurteau Little Manhatten | Fairy Tale Farm

Tobasco | Stacey J. Oppermann Chawa | Mihkayla Shetterly

Zyminka | Lisa A. Baker Attack | Andrea A. Simpson

Green Hunter 3'

Performance Hunter 3'3"

Just Ask | Yellowstone LLC The Girl from Ipanema | Caron L. Stucky Belunga | Nancy L. Wanty Quinaro | Carl E Perry Bel Ami | Lauren Robishaw Rio Ruisseau | Ellen M Jennings

Hero | Aliboo Farm, Inc. Zinnia Z | Aliboo Farm, Inc.

Amateur Owner Hunter 3'3"

Low Jr/AO Jumper

Young Jumper 6 Year Olds

Ciro | Kate Shaughnessy Cypress | Kristen Franz

My Pride Z | Melissa A. Hirt Calano Z | Aliboo Farm, Inc.

(Presented By: Custom Fox Tack Shop)

Green Hunter 3'3"

(Presented By: Robert Mendoza)

(Presented By: Milestone Equestrian)

Snowbird | Sofia Roberts, LLC Kingston Lane | Sofia Roberts, LLC

Low Adult Jumper

Full Count | Shaunnah Anderson Et Voila | Twining Court Ltd.

Arturo | Abby Wagner Even So | Laura A. Hauser

(Presented By: Robert Mendoza)

Performance Hunter 3'6"

Junior Hunter 3'6"

Medium Jr/AO Jumper

Young Jumper 7 Year Olds

Young Hunter 7 Years and Under

Junior Hunter 3'3"

1.25m Jumper

High Jr/AO Jumper

(Presented by: Just A Folly Farm)

1.30m Jumper

Green Pony Hunter

Children's Jumper

1.35m Jumper

Open Jumper by Money Won

Intermediate Children's/Adult Jumper HJ Adelle | Jessica L. Stitt Silvio B | Elizabeth Casserly

Green Hunter 3'6"

Arturo | Abby Wagner Ivy | Hilary Vollmer

Novice Children's/Adult Jumper (Presented By: Nick Novak)

Cool Girl | Vanessa R. Mazzoli Desert Rose | Roberts Stables, LLC

Green Hunter 3'9"

Corlando 49 | Elizabeth M. Becker Eastwood | Hallie Heggeness Forever and Ever | Vanessa R. Mazzoli Photobomb | Annalice M. Weithofer

Full Count | Shaunnah Anderson Bon Vivant | Lauren Robishaw Peninsula Emerald Lass | Melissa A. Hirt Byolga | Emily Reder Rule The Air | Melissa A. Hirt Louboutin | Melissa A. Hirt Ekon | Grant Field F 16 | Punchestown Stable Canta | Dorothy W. Campbell Byolga | Emily Reder Alastar | Redfield Farm Rumorosa | Harlow Investment Ent. LLC

Mango | Caroline Kahn The Huntsman | Fox Meadow Farm Ferragamo | Jennifer A. Daulton For Sunday | Harlow Investment Ent. LLC Fanfare | Natalie Hershenson Corlando 49 | Elizabeth M. Becker Mach 5 | Dana E. Wille Winkleman | Erin E. Haas Animal Crackers | Francesca P. Peters Foxmor Power Play | Spencer Ranch (Presented By: Keystone LLC)

Johnny B Good | Summer K. Hill Vendome DH Z | Andrea A. Simpson

Horse| Owner

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

World Equestrian Center SERIES

of the

Midwest

2016 - 2017 Champions Small Pony Hunter

(Presented By: Rinehart)

Weebiscuit | Izzy J. Beisel Forget Me Not | Pamela H. Blossom

Futures Prix

(Presented By: Dandy Products)

Cooper 152 | Freedom Woods Ammeretto | Equine Holdings LLC

Medium Pony Hunter

Rock Star | Roberts Stables, LLC Blu Ray | Sofia Roberts, LLC

Large Pony Hunter

Dreamsicle | Hannah A. Hoch Rivaldo | River Edge Farm

Children's Hunter 14 & under

Dakapo | Henry Healy Kingston Lane | Sofia Roberts, LLC

Children's Hunter 15-17

Face Value | Andrew ElHindi Cappello | Linden Knoll Farm, LLC

Adult Hunter 18-35

Beau Solei | Stacey Butler Fine Date | Lauren L. Newmeyer

Adult Hunter 36 and over

Muse | Laura A. Hauser Czac Brown | Sugar Run Farm LLC

Baby Green Hunter

Kashmir | Yellowstone LLC Bricken | Susan R. McCarthy

Children's Pony Hunter

April Rose | MTM farm Spot On | Joziemae P. Syroka

Non Thoroughbred Hunter

Daphne | Barbara Herberich Steel The Dream | Kendall Sturgill

Thoroughbred Hunter

Fan Favorite | Katie Myers Patrick Henry | Louise Riggio

Intermediate Children's Hunter

Short Stirrup/Limit Equitation Rider

Peyton N. Kuntz Katelyn Jasky

Equitation 11 and Under Rider

Katelyn Jasky Grace Defoe

Pharm It Out | Claire A. Healy Falene | Alaina Schwartz

Equitation 12-14

Intermediate Adult Hunter

Jada Fuleky Christopher Coberley

Bel Ami | Lauren Robishaw Dressed to Impress | Jane Branch

Rider

Equitation 15-17

Short Stirrup Hunter

(Presented By: Olive Hill & Diana Conlon) Rider

Limit Hunter

Adult Equitation

Steeling Home | Hannah Hitch Forte | Julia Greenspan Gizmo | Woodrun Written In the Stars | Johanne Lavigne

Special Hunter

Kashmir | Yellowstone LLC Just Ask | Yellowstone LLC

Non Professional Hunter

Jessica Stone Isabela H. De Sousa Rider

Hannah M. Satterlund Shaunnah Anderson

Children's Equitation Rider

Jada Fuleky Elizabeth M. Becker

Overjoyed | Sierra Meyer Falene | Alaina Schwartz

Intermediate Children's Equitation

Hunter 2'

Hannah A. Hoch Alaina Schwartz

Pink Magic | Meg McTiver Cherrybrook Just Blue By | David Dowler

Walk, Trot Equitation Rider

Madyson L. Schuh Taylor A. Schuh

Crossrails Equitation Rider

Madyson L. Schuh Taylor A. Schuh

Rider

Intermediate Adult Equitation Rider

Kim Mccrea Earnest Catherine DeMane

Children's Pony Equitation

(Presented By: Custom Fox Tack Shop) Rider

Joziemae Syroka Ella Kirby

Quality. Class. Distinction. www.wec.net Photo: Andrew Ryback

Wilmington, Ohio

e

xperience xcitement

September 13 - 17, 2017 •Boutique Shopping • Pony Rides • Gourmet Dining • Shopping • Live Music • Face Painting • VIP Tables

©The Book LLC

www..eAmericanGoldCup.com

32

52 10 10

THINGS: PONYAPP

Tech revolution meets equestrian tradition, and the result is streamlining the way equestrians manage their horses, their barns and their businesses. PonyApp, brought to market by Lindsay Douglas and Olympian Lucy Davis, has experienced wild success since its launch this spring. However, there is still more to learn about this startup, and 10 Things is here to share some new tidbits, secrets and numbers behind the app.

18 VENDOR

SPOTLIGHT: GOING GLOBAL AND GIVING BAC K Linda Hackett was at a career crossroads when she first laid eyes on a pair of sandals handmade by women in Kenya. With a background in fashion and travel, Hackett knew she had found something special. Soon after, she founded Global Girls, a fair trade company specializing in handbags, sandals and belts. Hackett loves what she does, and her company continues to partner with women in Africa, bringing fair wage jobs to the region.

32 DES TINATION:

LOS OLIVOS

After a peaceful GMC Denali ride down from her busy life in the Bay Area, H&S Publisher Sarah Appel arrived in Los Olivos, a quaint little town on the central California coast. She and her husband Matt experienced the best that the town has to offer, including accommodations at the Fess Parker Inn, horseback riding and wine tasting at Vino Vaqueros, and hauling a trailer with GMC’s new Sierra 3500 Denali HD. Between the horses and the trucks, it was a good ride from start to finish!

37

68

18

H&S HOME: UNDERSTATED EQUESTRIAN ELEGANCE

H&S steps inside the world of interior designer Patrik Lonn, touring a Hamptons show home he was commissioned to design.

Early in his career, while working with Ralph Lauren, Lonn was inspired to take up riding, and fell in love with all things equestrian. This love is evident in the Hamptons house’s accents: an equestrian Hermès scarf-inspired ceiling for starters! The result is a beautiful home, perfect for both private and public events.

52

37

ON

THE

COVER: GOLDEN OC AL A;

THE FUTURE IS GOLDEN In this inspirational cover story, H&S Publisher Sarah Appel travels to Ocala, Florida, to meet with the World Equestrian Center team, visiting what will soon be their second equestrian center location.The incredible facility will sit adjacent to their exceptional resort, Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Center, which Appel also experienced on her trip. An equestrian facility, a world-class golf course, a spa, and many delicious meals gave Appel a chance to live the wonderful “golden” life that Golden Ocala offers each of its guests.

68 DES TINATION:

AFRIC AN SAFARI H&S contributor, Gundi Younger, shares the story of her exceptional

trip to Kenya’s Maasai Mara with Safaris Unlimited. She recounts horseback rides that brought her up-close and personal with Africa’s wildlife, unbelievably luxurious “camping” accommodations, fivestar dining and perhaps most importantly, the new perspective on life that comes after being “unplugged” for a week.

8 | FROM

THE PUBLISHER

“I am not the same, having seen...”

12 | PRO

POP QUIZ

14 | OUT

& ABOUT

16 | OUT

& ABOUT

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

Royal Windsor Horse Show Sonoma Horse Park

17 | BET WEEN

THE LINES

Soul Deep in Horses

22 | OUT

& ABOUT

Longines Global Champions Tour Cannes

24 | BEHIND

THE SEAMS

Sarah Appel sarah@horseandstylemag.com

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

Street & Saddle

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

28 | OUT

laurie@horseandstylemag.com

& ABOUT

Oxridge Hunt Club Charity Horse Show

29 | CURATED BY AN EQUESTRIAN

Laurie Berglie CO P Y E D I TOR

Pam Maley

Freddy Paske

42 | OUT

& ABOUT

Spruce Meadows ‘National’ & ‘Continental’

45 | TRAVEL

CO N T R I B U TO R S

Patagone

50 | LIFE

OF BARBE

Have You Found Your Herd

62 | ST YLE

PROFILES

A Bag for all Reasons

66 | TREND

REPORT

Ready, Jet, Go!

78 | TRAVEL

Viva la Vino Vaqueros!

84 | OUT

& ABOUT

Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows

85 | TRAVEL

Horse-Trekking in Iceland

89 | OUT

& ABOUT

HITS Balmoral Park

91 | FEATURE

How the Stars Shape Your Equestrian Future

97 | OUT

& ABOUT

Paso Robles Horse Park

99 | ASK

INTERN

Samantha Hofherr

DR. CARRIE

100 | BEHIND

THE LENS

Cara Grimshaw

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Cara Grimshaw, Ashley Neuhof, Andrew Ryback, Boo Hardy, Kate Houlihan, Lauren Ross, Alli Addison, A Moment Created, Katelyn Woodburn, Moi Photography, Christopher Demers, Stevie Anna, Javier Castillo, Carlos Montagut, Anthony Taylor, Debbie Burt, Phillip Ennis, Will Tee Yang, The Book LLC, Kenny Kraus/Phelps Media Group, Dewald Kirsten, Lindsay Brock/ Jump Media, Sonoma Horse Park/Alden Corrigan Media, Spruce Meadows Media, Georgina Quackenbos/Dobbin Group, Barrie Fisher, Alden Corrigan Media, Grand Prix Photography, Jeff Rogers P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA ON THE COVER: Golden Ocala, photo ©Andrew Ryback 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

LISTINGS

AH

102 | BUSINESS

Alli Addison, Laurie Berglie, Pam Maley, Gundi Younger, Juliana Chapman, Kelsey Langsdale, Samantha Hofherr, Jana Cohen Barbe, Terri Roberson Psy.D., Dr. Carrie Wicks, Ph.D., Ashley Neuhof

YOU STAND IT?

Mode Mare

july/august ·

2013

AW

P

104 | CAN

ER

© 2017 HORSE & STYLE MAGAZINE

N

july/august

contents

Alan Wade

AR D WIN

5

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, in 2010, just in time for WEG, they moved to Lexington, Kentucky. Amazed at how time flies, the EqSol Team has grown, now reaching from CA to the UK, with exciting projects knocking at the door.

Danielle Demers grew up in Maine and currently lives in London with her husband. A lifelong equestrian, she 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

Gundi Younger

Terri Roberson, Psy.D.

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.

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.

Gundi was born and raised in Hamburg, has lived in London, and is currently living in Walnut Creek, CA. She is an accomplished dressage rider and has earned USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold medals. She is also a breeder of award winning KWPN horses.

Gundi and her husband Peter are currently remodeling a small horse ranch where they will live with their children, horses, dogs and cats.

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.

Ashley Neuhof

Juliana Chapman

Jana Cohen Barbe

A former three-day event rider, Ashley’s love of horses runs deep. Her photography has taken her around the world and her images have been exhibited in New York City galleries and major magazines. When she is not behind the lens, Ashley can be found riding her Thoroughbred mare and enjoying the outdoors.

Juliana is an events marketing professional and lifelong equestrian. She grew up in Rhode Island, and later lived in the Bahamas. Juliana has written articles for Horse & Style, The Plaid Horse and The World Equestrian Center blog. She wrote a young adult series of books about the environment, including Mercury Mountain and Reef Rescue, under her pen name, India Evans.

Jana is a Partner and former 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.

6

· july/august

QUALITY & EXCELLENCE WITHIN REACH Spruce Meadows is proud to showcase its top quality competition horses, for all levels of experience. Committed to excellence, Spruce Meadows invites you to meet our prospects available for 2017, we are confident you will find your next champion. For Sales and Information, Please contact the Spruce Meadows Horse Program at 1(403) 974-4200 or visit us at sprucemeadows.com/horses

HORSE PROGRAM

F R O M the

publisher Having the opportunity to travel is truly a luxury, and I am grateful for the amazing opportunities I have had to travel on behalf of Horse & Style. Most of my travels for H&S have been equestrian focused, with horses playing a big part in making my trip feel special. However, whether I am in Doha, Qatar, on the other side of the world; in Paris, France, which feels like a second home; or in Ocala, Florida, home of Golden Ocala Resort and the future home of World Equestrian Center South; what inspires me the most are the wonderful people I meet and their common love for horses and equestrian sport.

Horse & Style publisher and Editor-in-chief Sarah Appel at the private ranch of Linda and Pat Parelli in Ocala, Florida; photo © Georgia Quackenbos/Dobbin Group

“

I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.”

– MARY ANNE RADMAC HER

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of staying at the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. It was my first trip to Ocala, Florida. Driving along the pasture lined roads, surrounded by acres of farms, horses and breathtaking willow trees, I realized that Ocala is the epitome of horse country. Read about my visit to Ocala and the future of World Equestrian Center South on page 52.

As I lay awake one night in the comfort of my warm and cozy bed, I came across an Instagram account that left me feeling inspired and in awe. Stevie Anna, owner of the IG account @stevieanna, is setting out to trek 1,000 miles alone through Patagonia with her two horses and her dog. Read about her amazing adventure, and how you can follow her along her journey through the unknown (page 45).

Another unbelievable travel story in this issue details the African safari that Gundi Younger took this spring.

Her 5* “camping” experience was complete with chef catered three-course meals, cocktail hours with a full bar, lots of time in the saddle on perfectly behaved horses, and of course, some lions, elephants and alligators, oh my! Read all about her trip in “African Safari: Riding through the Maasai Mara” on page 68.

H&S Contributor Alli Addison and I were both lucky enough to experience some fun on the Central Coast of California, a trip that included a few of our favorite things: horses, travel and wine! Two serendipitous excursions led us to Vino Vaqueros in Santa Ynez, California. Read more about Vino Vaqueros and Alli’s adventure on page 78. I also was able to hit the trail at Vino Vaqueros on a coastal expedition that began in a GMC Denali whisking my husband Matt and me away to Los Olivos at the Fess Parker Inn & Spa, and culminating in simply amazing food, wines, and memories (page 32).

Cheers!

8

· july/august

saddles

that put your horse’s

comfort first...

Crafted from the finest European leather Bates Saddles offer highly specialized saddles for every discipline.

Combining technical design and innovation, Bates Saddles offer you instantaneous comfort, optimal balance and seamless contact with your horse.

The CAIR Cushion System and EASY-CHANGE Fit Solution offer the greatest flexibility in achieving a customized fit and fluid cushioning ensuring your horse’s absolute comfort and your peace of mind.

Experience the ultimate in comfort and performance in a Bates Saddle.

For more information visit batessaddles.com

Model shown: Bates Innova Mono+

@batessaddles

10

things

by Emily Pollard

…you might not know about…

PonyApp “PonyApp aims to support the services surrounding daily horse care. Manage your businesses and your horses, all in one place.

Save time, save money, and stay connected!”

— PonyApp Mission Statement

PonyApp’s mission statement is the perfect introduction to the on-fire start up that Lindsay Douglass and Lucy Davis launched this spring. Douglass and Davis started PonyApp together during their senior year at Stanford University, but their friendship began much earlier. The two grew up in Southern California, showed throughout the state, and did Young Riders together. Last summer, Lucy Davis won an Olympic Silver medal with the United States show jumping team. Now, they have been working long hours to bring PonyApp to market.

Luckily, the market is devouring what Douglass and Davis are offering. PonyApp is an iPhone app that helps streamline nearly every aspect of the equestrian industry. The My Stable feature manages horse care and is a place where users can easily create profiles for all of their horses to log just about everything – tack instructions, veterinary care, exercise needs, winnings, and even expenses.

PonyApp’s Invoices feature offers business services that can track employees’ work hours, create and send invoices, and of course, the all important, receive payments.

It’s accounting for equestrians, made easy. The Spotlight feature delivers the latest in equestrian news, so it is easy to keep up with the latest FEI rankings as well as see the latest in equestrian style. Notice how often the word easy keeps appearing?

It’s no coincidence. Easy was what Douglass and Davis wanted for PonyApp’s users – so users could spend more of their time in the saddle.

10

· july/august

1.

It’s free to download.

2.

PonyApp will be available for Android and web in the fall.

3.

The monocle on the PonyApp logo is both a jab at, and nod to, the traditionalism of the equestrian world.

Douglass and Davis love equestrian tradition, but want to modernize the business and horse management side of the sport.

4.

PonyApp was once called Equineer, which represented a combination of Equine and Engineer (Douglass and Davis both studied engineering at Stanford). At first, PonyApp was just a pet name, but it stuck.

5.

Users can send invoices to clients through the app and funds will be transferred directly into their bank account.

6.

PonyApp has only been out for three months, but there are 25,000 horses on the app, and more than 450 new horses are added each day.

7.

Horse & Style articles are available on PonyApp. Find them in Spotlight, along with the best news and coverage of the equestrian world.

8.

Users can set “to-dos” on PonyApp, such as tackups or lessons. If assigned to someone, a push notification will be sent to that person‘s phone.

9.

Some big names and stables are powered by PonyApp, a few being Eric Lamaze and Torrey Pines, Georgina Bloomberg and Gotham North, Mavis Spencer and Gallop Apace, and Neil Jones Equestrian.

10.

PonyApp has users in more than fifty countries including in Kazakhstan, Japan, Indonesia, India and Saudi Arabia.

Images © Barrie Fisher

Every horse has never colicked.

Until he does.

Colic affects horses of every breed, age, and discipline. At SmartPak, we’re on a mission to support healthy horses and happy riders, and that’s why we created ColiCare.

ColiCare is a FREE program that combines a veterinary wellness plan with our best digestive supplement, and backs it all with up to $7,500 of colic surgery reimbursement, should your horse ever need it.

Protect yourself and your horse!

SmartPak.com/ColiCare Subject to conditions

P R O pop

quiz

THIS MONTH’S QUESTION:

As the course designer for the American Gold Cup, what considerations do you take when crafting a grand prix course on grass?

What do you do to ensure a track is challenging for some of the country’s top competitors?

 American Gold Cup |  @americangoldcup  @americangoldcup |  theamericangoldcup.com Each issue, a new question is answered by an industry professional. Have a question you want answered? Send it to sarah@horseandstylemag.com

12

· july/august

Above: An American Gold Cup course on grass at Old Salem Farm; Right: Alan Wade, International Course Designer

“When designing any course, there are a large number of factors that I take into consideration. The main consideration on grass is ensuring that the placement of the fences is always on the best possible footing.With the American Gold Cup taking place at the end of a week of competition (as most Grand Prix events do), I try to manage my other course designs throughout the week to plan for the availability of new ground on Sunday. This is especially true for the combinations. Other factors I take into consideration include being true to the history of an iconic class like The American Gold Cup; the course should look and ride similar to past American Gold Cups. I also try to gauge the strength of the starting list that is going to be competing, and build a course that will best challenge the group. Although the American Gold Cup grand prix has a top rider list, I always begin my courses with a line that is horse friendly – in that it flows nicely around the arena. From there, I build in difficulties by varying the materials, dimensions, distances and placement of the jumps. An average jump can be made difficult by its proximity to the ingate, or if placed on a slope. I incorporate all of these factors into my course design.

For all of my courses, I start out with a pencil drawing, which I later transfer to a fully scaled computer design. I try to do all my design work at home in Ireland before I leave for a show, but the courses are always subject to change. My course design for the American Gold Cup remains very flexible until it is placed in the arena on Saturday evening. I keep it flexible so I can change the course if I need to; factors like heavy rainfall, extreme heat, or unusual wear and tear from the show all influence where the jumps end up. The gradient in the arena determines where I can set combinations and related lines, so I need to thoroughly study the ground as well. This makes sure the course rides the best that it can in any given situation, and that the American Gold Cup course is a fair, challenging and exciting track.”

— A L A N WA D E , International Course Designer

Photos © The Book LLC & Kenny Kraus/Phelps Media Group

Spring Summer 2017

EquilineAmerica.com

OUT&

about

THE ROYAL WINDSOR HORSE SHOW – WINDSOR, ENGL AND

3.

2.

4.

1.

6.

7.

5.

1. The RWHS Side Saddle Concours d’Elegance is a scene straight out of Downton Abbey 2. England’s Pony Club team ponies caught strategizing before their win in the Final of the DAKS Pony Club Mounted Games 3. A gorgeous pair: Canada’s Tiffany Foster and Tipple X III 4. Emotions run high in the crowd as Olympic Gold Medalists Nick Skelton and Big Star are joined by fellow GBR Olympic Team members for a final walk around the grand prix arena during the pair’s official retirement ceremony 5. The legend at work: John Whitaker and Cassinis Chaplin float over the Rolex vertical 6. Scott Brash looking very GQ during the course walk 7. What could be more traditionally British than employing a classic Land Rover Defender to help the jump crew clear the arena between classes?

14

· july/august

Photos © Christopher Demers

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9.

11.

10.

12.

13.

8. An adorable lineup at the conclusion of the BSPS Heritage Mountain & Moorland Pony Open Leading Rein class 9. The RWHS is held annually on the private grounds surrounding Windsor Castle, and HM Queen Elizabeth II attends each year 10. Kent Farrington and Sherkan D' Amaury winning the Rolex Grand Prix CSI5* by a landslide, nearly 4 seconds faster than the rest of the pack! 11. Ben Maher and Nick Skelton in the warm-up 12. There is no shortage of delicious treats for spectators to indulge in between classes at the RWHS 13. The course for the impressive Land Rover International Driving Grand Prix Four-in-Hand couldn't be more picturesque, winding through the ancient royal hunting forests of the Windsor Great Park

july/august ¡

15

OUT&

about

SONOMA HORSE PARK – SHP SPRING CL ASSIC, HMI EQUESTRIAN CHALLENGE AND HMI JUNE CL ASSIC – SONOMA , CA

1.

2.

3.

4.

6.

5.

7.

1. Addyson Cord and Zidane earn an admirable 2nd place in the Karen Healey Open Equitation Challenge. The class was dedicated to Healey, who designed the course and judged 2. The Petaluma Riding & Driving Club Junior Color Guard riders put on a dazzling show at full gallop during the Grand Prix Opening Ceremonies 3. Patrick Seaton and stunning Skipko K clear the NAJYRC jump on their way to a win in the $25,000 Adequan Grand Prix 4. Mackenzie Drazan pats Waliba VDL with a smile after their victory in the $7,500 1.40m Tack Warehouse Welcome Prix 5. Mother and daughter bonding moment: Hope and Avery Glynn celebrate their $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby victories. Hope was 1st, 3rd, 6th & 12th, and Avery was 7th 6. Horse show days are long days...Santiago from Patrick Seaton Stables takes a second to relax and chill out 7. Kylee Arbuckle and the gorgeous Earl Grey looking stylish in the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby

16

· july/august

Photos © Sonoma Horse Park/Alden Corrigan Media

B E T W E E N the

lines

by Laurie Berglie

Soul Deep in Horses:

Taylor Harris National Children’s Medal CP National Horse Show American Gold Cup millbrook horse trials Pin Oak Charity Horse Show

Memoirs of an Equestrian Vagabond MERRI MELDE Kindle: $9.24 | Paperback: $14.99 | amazon.com 224 pages

e·ques·tri·an: a rider or performer on horseback vag·a·bond: a person who wanders from place to place I was so excited when I found out that our July/August issue would be travel-inspired because I had the perfect book to review in Merri Melde’s Soul Deep in Horses: Memoirs of an Equestrian Vagabond.

“It’s always been horses. It wasn’t a conscious choice, this life with horses. I was already born with their hoof prints on my heart, and I knew no other way. By the time I first sat on a horse at around age eleven after much persistence, horses had already worked down into my bones and settled in my soul, and it was far too late for anybody to try to transfuse them out.”

No matter where in the world she wound up, Melde always seemed to find herself on the back of a horse. In Ireland she groomed and galloped racehorses. “Ireland was vociferously trilling its siren song. Besides, there were still those nagging buried slivers of that dream I had of galloping racehorses. So – why not gallop racehorses in Ireland?”

In Zimbabwe, Melde rode in a Big Game Park where she came across antelope, wildebeest, giraffes – and a tremendous thunderstorm that soaked her to the bone! In Egypt, she found herself riding a huge, “flaming red stallion,” named Harry. Melde was apprehensive at first, but she quickly realized that Harry was perfectly trained, and she enjoyed an effortless gallop across the desert. “Pyramids to the north.

Pyramids to the south. Unknown buried temples and tombs and ancient mysteries beneath our hooves.”

Endurance riding has and continues to take Melde all over the United States: Washington, Texas, California, Idaho – you name it – and it exposes her to some of the hardiest, most athletic horses she’ll ever meet. But, of course, one horse has her heart, an ex-racehorse named Stormy. When his trainer calls to say she’s decided to retire him, Melde jumps at the chance to, finally, have her own horse. “I still didn’t have a truck or trailer or land or home, but there was never a question, never a hesitation. I would put him in my bedroom if I had to.”

Soul Deep in Horses showcases Melde’s lifelong love affair with horses and details how they have shown her the world many times over.

Whether on a brilliant adventure or on the brink of disaster, she weaves a narrative so beautiful, so poetic that all equestrians will relate, acknowledging the relentless hold horses have on our hearts.

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Going Global and Giving Back

GLOBAL GIRLS 18

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In 2008, Linda Hackett was at a crossroads in her career. She wanted to combine her creative background, her love for travel, and her experience within the fashion industry with a profession that would really mean something, that would enable her to make a difference in the world. And, on a personal note, she wanted to visit Africa. Not long after, she created Global Girls.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF OTHERS Hackett first saw a pair of African sandals while attending a documentary filmmakers screening about Kenya. “When I first saw the Kenyan sandals, I was enthralled,” said Hackett. “Then the filmmaker told me that the sandals were handmade primarily by disenfranchised Kenyan women, many of whom were living with HIV/AIDS, and right then I knew I wanted to lend a hand.

My immediate thought was that I could commercialize the sandals in the US with hopes of providing fair-trade jobs for the women artisans, thus helping to improve their lives.”

Prior to this, Hackett’s professional experience included years of working as a wardrobe stylist, as well as an international buyer and designer. Her livelihood had depended upon her ability to recognize exceptional items of interest, and having spent years scouring the globe for unique and marketable products, she knew at once that she’d found something special.

“My gut told me other women would love these sandals, just as I did, and for the same reasons. They were not only beautiful and well-made, but comfortable. My home-base of Southern California is one of the ‘sandal capitals of the world’ where many women wear sandals year-round. I thought, ‘What a perfect match,’ helping women help themselves by developing a market for products that we are already so committed to. What’s more, my years of experience importing handmade Mexican folk art gave me the confidence that I had the skills to do this.”

Hackett had never been to Africa, but had always dreamed of visiting the beautiful and diverse continent, especially the sub-Saharan region. She began taking the sandals to retail buyers in California, and her hunch about the positive market response was confirmed as order after order was taken. Not long after she was off to Kenya to meet with the artisans, where they began to organize the process of having the sandals made to meet market demand. “Now, nine years and seventeen trips to Kenya later, I can say that I have reached my initial goal of providing good paying jobs to help many Kenyan women.”

S O M E T H I N G F O R E V E RYO N E Global Girls specializes in handmade sandals and belts. They also have a line of one-of-a-kind handbags made from rare, vintage Kuba cloth. Hackett tries

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to introduce a few new styles every six months so the line is constantly fresh, but the classic styles that have been around since day one have become staples and are still very much in demand.

Hackett notes that both the sandals and belts offer wide-ranging appeal. “There’s something for everyone, whether the customer prefers a little silver bling or finds the colorful, African-inspired designs more pleasing. While there are many great sandal styles, for the woman who needs a bit of extra comfort, the wedges are extremely popular. It’s a discreet wedge, not clunky or oversized, and the comfort it provides is akin to wearing running shoes. I challenge customers to try them on to see what I mean, and no one’s argued with me so far!

We also welcome custom orders for those

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who have special foot needs – larger sizes, extra narrow, extra wide, you name it.”

Hackett is proud of the growth she’s had with Global Girls in the nine years she’s been in business. “While the sandals are found among exclusive brands in upscale boutiques, I am most proud of having expanded our workforce from five talented artisans when I first started to a steady workforce of about 200! In addition to the handbags and the beaded leather belts, especially popular with equestrians, we’ve also expanded our product range to include beaded dog collars and leashes.”

THE EQUESTRIAN MARKET While Hackett herself is not an equestrian, she counts many as friends, and that’s how she realized her products resonated within

the horse community. “I have always had a lifelong love of horses, and though I am not a skilled rider myself, I attend numerous horse shows, and many equestrians are loyal customers. The interaction I have with them is priceless – they frequently give me ideas as to what they’re looking for, what they like (or don’t like), and how the shoes and belts fit. This information is essential for any business like mine.”

Equestrians like to look stylish both in and out of the saddle, and Hackett knows her products meet those requirements. “Our equestrian customers truly recognize and count on the quality and workmanship of our products.

They enjoy the comfort, design, and originality of our sandals and belts.”

Whether at a horse show, around the stable, or out for a night on the town, these versatile accessories rise to the occasion.

Hackett sees a bright future for her company. “Though many brick-andmortar stores are struggling from online competition nowadays, I still believe there’s a place for a Global Girls storefront. Having a stationary storefront would be a natural extension of our booth where we sell sandals and belts at horse shows and special events across the country.

So many customers have feet that do not fit in shoes that are produced in the standard assembly-line. I am one of those people. Our customers welcome the personal attention we provide when helping them find a pair of sandals that’s a perfect fit on their feet and in their wardrobe.”

Although the future is unknown, Hackett is certain that Global Girls will continue to move forward.

With a loyal customer base that loves the notion of helping women by providing fair-trade jobs for excellent, quality products, how can it not? As the owner of Global Girls, Hackett considers herself blessed to have founded and now run a company that does global good from the artisans in Africa to the soles in the States.

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OUT&

about

LON GINES GLOBAL C HAMPIONS TOUR – C ANNES, FRAN CE

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1. Lorenzo de Luca and his gorgeous stallion Halifax van het Kluizebos take yet another well-earned victory gallop 2. Christian Ahlmann and the amazing stallion Caribis Z are turning heads not only because they make a stunning pair, but the 10 year old stud has earned his first CSI5* wins this year. More than halfway through the season, Ahlmann currently sits in the top three on the LGCT leaderboard 3. Emerald shows off his chrome from back to front with Harrie Smolders aboard. Smolders currently sits on the top of the LGCT leaderboard 4. Enjoying the scenic ocean views near the Mediterranean Port of Cannes 5. Daniel Deusser’s groom, Sean Lynch, takes First Class van Eeckelghem out for a hack 6. The crystal blue water and sunny skies set the scene for a perfect hand walk along the pier

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Photos © Ashley Neuhof

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7. Ben Maher’s Don Vito soaks up the summer sun with his groom 8. Yacht watching 9. Spain’s Sergio Alvarez Moya and Arrayan on their way to a win in Cannes – their first LGCT Grand Prix victory! 10. As the U25 rider representing Team London Knights on the Global Champions League, Emily Moffitt dons some flashy red attire 11. Lorenzo de Luca on Halifax van het Kluizebos and Simon Delestre on Hermès Ryan strategize as they walk around the warm up ring 12. Daniel Deusser soars high on Cabreado S.E.

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seams

B EHIND the

by Alli Addison photos by A Moment Created, Katelyn Woodburn, Moi Photography

The Cavalry Cape, photo © Katelyn Woodburn

Street & Saddle THE

RETURN

OF THE

BESPOKE

Photo © A Moment Created

“The world is full of crap,” laughs Katelyn Woodburn of Street & Saddle. Such an honest statement. But also such a reality in today’s marketplace. It is also a driving force for the small businesses, entrepreneurs and good people of planet earth looking to make a difference. It’s a consumer-driven world these days, a world where we want things quick, we want things cheap, and we want things now. This quick-fix, impulsive, immediate gratification outlook on life results in ill-fitting, poorly-made, unethical and environmentally-unconscious goods. Where did the design go? The craftsmanship? The old-fashioned desire for a product well-made?

The bespoke is still alive and well.

One must simply find it. And appreciate it. july/august ·

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ShowStopper shirt, photo © Moi Photography

DESIGNING A BRAND Years ago, in a barn (yes, in a barn) two young equestrian enthusiasts, Katelyn Woodburn and Tina Kam, began chatting over muddy horses. A light-hearted conversation led to a further, somewhat more serious, conversation about equestrian-inspired life, clothing, craftsmanship and ethical manufacturing.

These two budding entrepreneurs found that they shared so much common ground in appreciating the ‘making of things and making them right’ that it was just four months later that they launched their new clothing company, Street & Saddle.

But the idea and passion behind Street & Saddle began years before that fateful horse dander-laden day. “The idea for Street & Saddle came years ago, when I was fifteen,” says Woodburn (who also happened to go to school for fashion design and entrepreneurial management). “I’ve always been one for making things with my hands, and of course, I was your run-of-the-mill horse-crazy girl. I connected the dots when I saw publications such as Vogue printing ‘equestrian style’ editorials. They weren’t necessarily displaying breeches or huntcoats, but they focused on timeless, tailored clothing that is traditional and classic. While the equestrian market was constantly modernizing by using athletic fabrics and bright colors, the fashion world saw the value in our stubborn love for tradition. I wanted to find that narrow middle ground between what equestrians

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Street & Saddle vegetable tanned Italian leather belt, photo © Katelyn Woodburn

deemed to be fashionable, and what nonequestrians found to be traditional.”

The Street & Saddle collection of items makes for a well-appointed closet. From the Runaway Skirt to the CopperLux Tee, the Perfect Polo to the ShowStopper, the Cavalry Cape to the Boss Babe Shirt, and every accessory in between, this collection of assorted equestrian finery has your closet covered.

“The ShowStopper is my total pride and joy,” exclaims Katelyn Woodburn. “The main priorities were performance and usability – stretch shoulder panels and no-roll cuffs – but it has this clean and simple beauty that has made it our best seller.” She continues that even non-equestrians have developed the same level of appreciation for the ShowStopper, purchasing it for the work place and for special events. “The fact that the ShowStopper is the shirt all these inspiring women reach for when they need to look and feel their best is hugely rewarding. That’s where our tagline Ride Your Life came from. The mission was always to dress inspiring women in inspiring ways.”

A PA S S I O N F O R T H E WELL-CRAFTED But building an aesthetic simply steeped in tradition wasn’t enough for Street & Saddle.

“We adore horses, art, and classy, flattering garments you’ll want to wear all the time,” says Woodburn. And this is one of the many facets that helps set the business apart from

the herd: an old-fashioned focus on design and craftsmanship. There’s that word again: craftsmanship. Where the quality in both the design and the work shines through. And it is in craftsmanship that Street & Saddle takes the grand prize. “Clothing has gotten simpler and less tailored in order to meet consumer demands for low cost goods,” states Woodburn. “At Street & Saddle, we sort of pride ourselves in being inefficient and elaborate,” she continues.

Every Street & Saddle product is designed and crafted in Canada, with the majority of the items coming from the Street & Saddle studio in Vancouver. For large orders, Street & Saddle works with a fantastic local factory that employs a group of exceptionally talented ladies and gents. Each has a minimum of twenty years’ experience, and it shows in the final product. “Our technical designer, Ciel, and I work together on all design, prototyping and custom orders,” explains Woodburn. And the level of production that goes into each garment and item is a true labor of love. The stunningly elegant Cavalry Cape takes two and a half days to make. The wildly popular ShowStopper shirts, which are partially lined for wearer comfort and streamlined appearance, are passed back and forth between Woodburn and Ciel at least three times before even one garment is finished. Every single piece of fabric is cut by hand. Yes. Every. Single. Piece.

And the rich vegetable-tanned Italian leather belts? Tina Kam makes each and every one

“ ShowStopper shirt and Runaway Skirt, photo © Moi Photography

by hand, as in no machines. Woodburn describes the process as strategic, nimble and ridiculously labor intensive. But it’s a process that works, and Street & Saddle wouldn’t have it any other way. Is this the common path for a clothing brand? Absolutely not. In today’s marketplace, you typically see clothing being manufactured in massive factory runs, producing a healthy number of each product in every size and color option. It is the easiest way, but it is also costly and potentially very wasteful. “Imagine if a certain style or color bombed sales-wise.

There’s a big mountain of unwanted clothes left over,” explains Woodburn.

ETHICALIT Y & RESPONSIBILIT Y This is where things get tricky, where companies go off-course and consumers are left either unaware of the issues or elect to turn a blind eye. As it goes with many industries, the textile industry is right up there in terms of pollution, poor working conditions and inexcusably low wages.

And this issue is not isolated to third world countries, as one might assume. In a recent study conducted by the Garment Worker Centre in Los Angeles, California, it was found that 42% of garment workers reported having exits to the factory blocked, poor ventilation, bad lighting, safety issues and pest control problems. And this was in America.

Both domestically and internationally, issues exist.Yet on the other hand, there are companies that work hard to ‘do it right.’

But these fast fashion items left Woodburn questioning the numbers, the process and the bottom line. How can an item such as this be made for $5, let alone sold for $5?!

Remember, in business there is always mark-up. She knew the answer and it left her a little queasy. But the nausea also left her inspired.

“There are clothing brands who manufacture overseas,” says Woodburn. “But they do so in an ethical and environmentally conscious manner. They set strict rules, and require factories to comply with them. And they deal directly with those factories, instead of letting their order get lost in a chain of outsourcing that allows them to eschew any responsibility.”

Woodburn continues to explain that some brands are putting in the effort but it’s hard to get everything perfect. “Some brands use eco-friendly fabric but take advantage of cheap labor, others follow ethical manufacturing practices, but use environmentally harmful raw materials,” she states. The important part is that they are trying. “Making clothing ethically, out of responsibly sourced materials, and keeping prices reasonable, is a herculean feat.” And luckily for consumers trying to navigate the ethical manufacturing world and wishing to support these brands, the brands tend to ‘brag’ about their do-good philosophy. So they’re not too hard to find.

During our interview Woodburn used a term to describe the manufacturing of cheap clothing: fast fashion. It’s a hard habit to break: the habit that leaves you craving items that cost $15, $10, heck, even $5 sometimes.

But these fast fashion items left Woodburn questioning the numbers, the process and the bottom line. How can an item such as this be made for $5, let alone sold for $5?! Remember, in business there is always mark-up. She knew the answer and it left her

a little queasy. But the nausea also left her inspired. Blending high morals with great design is the key, and Street & Saddle holds to these principles. “Our tailors get paid fair wages; the local garment factory we use is brightly lit, clean, and home to an energetic team of craftspeople who sew to absurdly high quality standards; and as hard as it is to find good fabrics, we’re always looking for the eco-friendly options,” says Woodburn.

“This has been one of the goals of Street & Saddle; to teach people to love not just their clothes, but to love how they were made and with what. And it’s been working - we have this small but intensely loyal following of customers who aren’t just familiar with the brand and styles, they’ll tell you what the fabric is and that is has pockets,” laughs Woodburn.

The future holds exciting things for Street & Saddle. A big expansion is coming this fall, with new styles for outerwear, as well as a contemporary athleisure line. A continentwide road trip to “horse show hop” is also in the works. New products take a lot of research and development before the actual style is launched. Yet season after season, the balance between the “street” and the “saddle” remains, and the goal to craft the bespoke and to inspire people to Ride Your Life, echoes in the Street & Saddle lifestyle.

Learn more and shop the Street & Saddle collection online at streetandsaddle.com.

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OUT&

about

OX RIDGE HUNT CLUB C HARIT Y HORSE SHOW – DARIEN , CT

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1. Katie Tyler and Shet Du Thot are all smiles after their Grand Prix victory gallop in the rain 2. The cuteness factor is high during the white pony parade! 3. A mostly bay brigade with a few chestnuts mixed in await awards 4. Georgina Bloomberg and her Balou 660 show serious scope over the New York City skyline oxer 5. Ellie Ferrigno competed on Capitalized to earn the Best Child Rider on a Horse award 6. Kirsten Ostling and Given were Amateur Owner Hunter 3'6" Champions, accepting the honor with one adorable Frenchie in the tack 7. Emilia Richard took Best Child Rider on a Pony honors with Fairytales – a well-deserved win!

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Photos © Andrew Ryback Photography

C URA TE D by an

by Laurie Berglie photos by Debbie Burt

equestrian

F R E DDY PA S K E It’s only been a year since equestrian painter, Freddy Paske, opted for a career change from army officer to artist, but he hasn’t looked back once. Now he travels the world, paintbrush in hand, to capture the true essence of the horse and its surrounding landscapes.

“Final Check,” oil on acrylic

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A FA M I LY T R A D I T I O N Paske was brought up in a family of horsemen and horsewomen. “I was very lucky to have grown up around horses,” said Paske. “It was a family tradition to ride before you could walk, and as a result, we spent a huge amount of time in the saddle. During my time in the Army, I played polo (badly) and would often hunt with our local foxhounds.”

“Racing Sketch 7,” watercolor and charcoal

Paske notes that his artwork has gotten in the way of his equine pursuits, so he hasn’t spent much time in the saddle lately. However, since he devotes a large portion of his time to painting horses, he still feels that same connection and strong sense of comradery.

“Horses have been a huge part of my life and still are. I have a little sister who is an incredibly talented event rider and extended family members who are very involved with racing and hunting. Over the years, I have developed an in-depth understanding which has allowed me to capture the horse in a unique way.”

In addition to horses, Paske has always been infatuated with drawing and painting, so in 2016, he decided to take a leap of faith and left the military to become a full-time artist. “I had spent seven years with the Light Dragoons, a cavalry regiment in the British Army, but even then, I had never been far from my paintbrush. Time being scarce, I developed a technique that used bold, expressive brush strokes to suggest detail, and this is still reflected in my work today. I now paint from my studio in Hampshire, which is shared with a stable yard, so naturally my subjects are quite often horses!”

“Team Godolphin Do Battle,” watercolor and pastel “Woody,” pastel on sanded paper

D R A M AT I C CO LO R S A N D COMPOSITIONS Uniqueness. That’s what Paske would like his work to be known for. With vibrant textures and a bold painting technique, the artist sees his work as standing out within the equestrian and sporting art communities. “Final Check,” a large black and white oil on acrylic painting is an example of Paske’s specialty. “Racing Sketch 7,” a watercolor and charcoal piece depicting a steeplechaser and his jockey, showcases his explosive style.

Paske notes that he has been inspired by those artists who accurately portray the magnificence of the equine. “‘Snaffles’ (Charles Payne) has been a huge influencer of my work. He was a military man and one who understood the horse perfectly. His ability to capture an animal’s character with a few lines is inspirational and something

I very much aspire to. Christian Hook is a contemporary painter who creates mesmerizing images of horses with a mixture of subtle and contrasting colors. His paintings pull you in, giving his subjects a majestic quality.”

Like all artists, however, Paske’s style and subjects have varied over the years depending on where he is and what he’s doing. He ensures this is reflected in his art through the use of dramatic compositions and colors, relying on the medium to bring out the intriguing details.

A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L PERSPECTIVE Paske loves to travel, and the perspective gained from visiting new countries and cultures is evident in his art. “I am very lucky to have been offered artist residencies with a number of great British equine establishments, so I will spend a lot of time traveling throughout the UK. As an artist, I will have rare behind-the-scenes access to organizations such as The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and Tattersalls, the racehorse auctioneers, to name a few.”

He also journeys south to Africa as often as possible. “I love Africa and am spending an increasing amount of time there. I use any method possible to explore the continent from horses in the Okavango Delta, a WIMIK-armored Land Rover in Kenya, to patrolling on foot with anti-poaching units in Zambia. The abundance and energy of the wildlife offers boundless possibilities for an artist like me, and I always look forward to my next African adventure.”

Exciting things are on the horizon for Paske with his biggest accomplishment to date coming in December when he has a solo show of his equestrian art. “My December exhibition at the Osborne Studio Gallery in Knightsbridge is the next big milestone for me.

The show will be a collection of my equine work created through my residencies around the UK this year. If you want to see the great British horse portrayed in a new light, you should come!” The show runs throughout the build up to Christmas, and will be the culmination of Paske’s yearly travels.

To see more of Paske’s work and to learn more about his exciting worldwide explorations, visit his website at freddypaske.com or his Instagram @freddy_paske. For those local to London, Paske’s solo show will be held at the Osborne Studio Gallery from November 29th through December 22, 2017.

"Over the years, I have developed an in-depth understanding which has allowed me to capture the horse in a unique way."

“Arabian Inclinations,” oil on panel “Highland Brook, Early Morning,” oil on canvas board

DESTINATION

by Sarah Appel photos by Will Tee Yang

Los Olivos A C U R AT E D COA S TA L E X P E R I E N C E

Life gets busy. Two kids, two jobs, two dogs – oh, and a house remodel! It’s safe to say that my husband Matt and I are very busy at the moment. But honestly, who isn’t nowadays? My circle of family and friends, even those without children or house remodels, all have a lot going on. With our culture’s obsession with phones, handheld devices and social media, it’s hard to slow down, live in the moment and enjoy life. So, when the opportunity arose to leave the kids with the grandparents, hop in a brand new 2017 GMC Acadia Denali, and drive to the Fess Parker Inn in Los Olivos, Matt and I didn’t just say yes, we said YES! And that’s what we did!

Road trip to Los Olivos Fess Parker's tranquil pool and lounge

d Vino Vaqueros, rea Guided trail ride at 78 ge pa on s quero more about Vino Va

WINDOWS DOWN , NPR UP The drive from the Bay Area to central California’s Los Olivos was practically a vacation in itself. After we popped our destination’s address into the navigation and synced my iPhone to the Bluetooth, we were on our way. Matt and I don’t often get a lot of quiet moments alone together, or even alone on our own, so we seized the opportunity to relish an NPR podcast. With the Denali’s roomy seats, quiet interior and perfect climate control, it was easy to bliss out on the four-hour ride to Los Olivos.

F E S S PA R K E R M AG I C Just a short drive from Highway 101 is a small quaint street lined with tasting rooms, unique shops, and the crown jewel of Los Olivos, The Fess Parker Inn. As Matt and I took our first steps into the inn, I imagined that our girls must have felt the same way when they took their first steps into Disneyland. The Inn’s country-style, modern farmhouse

architecture gave the property a warm, magical feel. The lobby was welcoming and tastefully decorated, and the staff happily greeted us.

Eventually, we made our way to a beautiful room, the Marcella Suite, which was complete with fireplace, living room and a Jacuzzi tub.

After settling in, we headed to Fess Parker’s signature restaurant, The Bear and the Star, where we dined on fresh in-season-only fare, crafted with a California culinary twist.

It was a delicious end to our first central California day.

The Bear and Star

DUAL HORSE POWER The central coast is known for many things, but most definitely for their horse country and their wine. So it was fitting that our first outing on day number two was a trail ride through the Santa Ynez vineyards with Vino Vaqueros. Owner of Vino Vaqueros, Jaye Ganibi, and her staff took excellent care of everyone on our trip. All the horses were kind and well behaved, regardless of whether their riders had previous

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Hauling with the GMC Sierra 3500 Denali HD

horseback riding experience or not. After we were done enjoying the panoramic views of San Ynez on our trail ride and had finished taking dozens of selfies, we had the opportunity to test drive the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali HD, with trailer and horses in tow.

r in the Barrel Our private dinne e Vineyards ton es Room at Fir

The tasting lineup at Fess Parker Winery

Having driven in a truck and trailer throughout the state over the past twenty-plus years, I can honestly say the Sierra 3500 Denali was the smoothest haul I have ever experienced. And the heated leather seats, wireless cell phone charger, and Bluetooth radio made the Denali, which is essentially just a big hauling vehicle, feel like a luxury sedan.

WINE THIRT Y When in the Santa Ynez wine country, one must do what the locals do: drink amazing wine. Fess Parker founded some incredible wine labels produced from central California grapes, and we had the chance to try quite a few of the Fess

Parker Winery wines as we strolled through the inn property. While I loved each and every sip, the Fess Parker Vineyard 2013 Viognier was my personal favorite. Our next tasting was at Epiphany, which was actually founded by Fess Parker’s son, Eli in 2000. The label is a leading contemporary producer of Rhone-based and esoteric varietal wines from the Central Coast. In the beginning, this label represented Eli’s “creative outlet” during his adventurous winemaking stage. In the end, and seventeen years later, I can assure you, every wine at Epiphany is delicious.

Even though it is always hard to leave my kids for a few days, it was even harder to leave Los Olivos after this incredible trip. I fell in love with Los Olivos, and the delicious food and wine the region has to offer. The only thing that eased the sting of leaving was the fact that we still had our Denali to drive for the trip home. But Los Olivos, I will be back!

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Understated

Equestrian Elegance • IN THE HAMPTONS • Our latest installment of Horse & Style Home takes us to the Hamptons, that posh enclave and popular summer vacation locale at the north end of Long Island, New York. If you’ve never been to the Hamptons, add it to your bucket list. With its stately, private homes, exquisite restaurants, and classic East Coast charm, it’s the place to see and be seen from June through August. july/august ·

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Patrik Lonn at work

LUXURY WITHOUT CONJURING OPULENCE We are mixing things up a bit for this issue.

Rather than interviewing an individual homeowner, I’d instead like to introduce you to the noted interior designer, Patrik Lonn of Patrik Lonn Design, whose background as a horseman is evident in his impeccable equestrian-inspired style. This beautiful home in the Hamptons was a yearly show-house, and Lonn was asked to work his magic within. At the end of the show, the house was sold to a private owner.

Lonn knew early on that he wanted to be in the interior design business. “It all started in Stockholm when I worked for the renowned NK Interiors and Svenkt Tenn,” remembers Lonn. “In my early 20s, I relocated to New York to pursue degrees in interior design and business at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the Pratt Institute. My professional career in the US started with the world famous Peter Marino Architects.

I moved on to an architectural firm doing Saks Fifth Avenue department stores, and then continued in-house for Ralph Lauren before I started my own studio in 2007. It

has been an amazing journey. It was always my end goal to run a practice, so when an opportunity was presented to me, I jumped on it!” Lonn now focuses on luxury residential interiors primarily on the East Coast, but he is looking forward to a project that’s taking him to London this fall.

Known for creating spaces that are sensual and comfortable, Lonn’s signature style is of the modern classicism variety. “My mantra is ‘luxury without conjuring opulence.’ I really love to integrate art in my spaces, as that is the most challenging and rewarding way of making a space dynamic and interesting.”

Lonn also notes that he works with unexpected pieces and features that make spaces visually pleasing.

S U B T L E , U N D E R S TAT E D REFERENCES Lonn did not grow up with horses. In fact, it was his professional life that led him to what would become one of his greatest personal passions. “I got inspired to take up riding when working for Ralph Lauren.

Everything was equestrian-themed, so it made sense to explore the sport. After many

lessons, and barn trials and errors, I finally found my way to Cedar Crest Farm, a farm certified by the British Horse Society, in Pine Plains, New York. A tough Irish military-trained instructor taught me the basics and after many years of flat work, I was ready for simple jumping – my dream come true. Starting as an adult at age thirty was a challenge, but I was determined to learn.”

Like all equestrians, it’s no surprise that Lonn’s love for the horse began to seep into his work as an interior designer. While he does not label himself solely as an equestrian interior designer, he is skilled at capturing the classic, traditional style that is so congruous with the horse community. The equestrian lifestyle encompasses all aspects of a rider’s life, so having touches of this passion inside the home is not uncommon.

When working with an equestrian client, however, Lonn takes the road less traveled.

An understated look is best. “I always base my designs on a concept. It is important not to make it themed. I usually start with very subtle references. For an equestrian interior, it may be the saddle stitching, a particular

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color of tack leather, the tail of the horse, or many times I draw inspiration from equestrian fashion. I just completed a house in Wellington for a talented globetrotting equestrian amateur. We made sure not to use the conventional horse photography for the house; instead, I found a wonderful 16th century drawing reproduction that we framed for the space. The concept was based on the client’s love for driftwood, and I added contemporary light fixtures and pieces in oil-rubbed bronze – a reference from the beautiful hardware and light fixtures found in the stables of Versailles.

This made it a modern and exciting, yet comfortable and casual, house – exactly what’s needed to come home to after a long day of horse showing!”

A HAMPTONS COUNTRY HOME As mentioned, our featured home resides in the Hamptons and was a project completed for the Hamptons Designer Show House organization, which benefitted the Southampton Hospital. Lonn notes that the overall look was a casual summer residence that was dressy enough to entertain both private and public events.

“The sitting room had refined references to the many equestrian sports that take place in the Hamptons. One of my favorite features was the hand-painted wallpaper I created that was inspired by an equestrian scarf by Hermès. I made the club chairs in leather with saddle stitching, and the vivid equestrian photography by Bob Tabor made the space dramatic. I featured Tang horse sculptures and used an earth-toned color scheme perfect for a quiet sitting room/ library setting.”

One of the main focal points is the fireplace, which is flanked by large windows festooned with neutral plaid treatments. They draw the eye up to the ornately-patterned coffered ceiling delicately detailed in the same earthtoned shades. Elegant equestrian touches such as a saddle, black field boots, and a vase embellished with a snaffle bit, tell a subtle tale of a life with horses.

If you live the equestrian sporting life and want to revamp a room, giving a nod to your greatest passion, Lonn has some seasoned advice to share. “I would look for unusual art, perhaps use horsehair fabric for upholstery or incorporate some of the  patriklonn.com

 @patriklonndesign

tack hardware in furniture pieces or custom pillows. A well-earned ribbon can be beautifully-framed in a shadow box, but I would not decorate with lots of trophies or equestrian knick-knacks. That would create a very conventional equestrian interior design.” With Lonn, less is more.

JOY AND BAL AN CE When asked to describe his equestrian style in one sentence, Lonn replies, “Subtle references to the exciting world of the equestrian lifestyle.” And what an exciting world it is. “I am so fortunate to be able to share time with such a powerful animal as the horse. The connection I have is also rather therapeutic. My every day stressful life is filled with meetings, clients, and the many daily challenges of living in New York City. There is nothing more calming yet thrilling than to be back on the farm with my horse or competing at the many shows we frequent. It gives me much joy and balance in life.”

And as we’ve seen in the Hamptons Country Home, Lonn also recommends having that same joy and balance within your house, understated equestrian touches and all.

traditional riding progressive teaching proven results

OUT&

about

SPRUCE MEADOWS 'NATIONAL' CSI 5* PRESENTED BY ROLEX

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1. President and CEO of Spruce Meadows, Linda Southern-Heathcott, enjoys the Spruce Meadows Media Day Luncheon with Ian and Jonathan Millar 2. Patricio Pasquel and Babel celebrate their first CSI5* win at Spruce Meadows in the RBC Grand Prix, presented by Rolex 3. Spruce Meadows unveils multiple photography islands for selfies and photo-ops during the popular Summer Series 4. Richard Spooner makes it a hat trick in the CNOOC Nexen Derby, hoisting the cup with Jeff Pendrel, Nexen’s Vice President and Assistant General Counsel 5. Young star Lucy Deslaurier and her amazing Hester earn their first international victory in the ATCO Challenge, 1.50m. The pair pose for a win picture with Tracy Robinson, Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines’s Senior Vice President and General Manager 6. Veteran Leslie Howard takes the title in the Encana Cup. Howard is one of the top 20 money winners at Spruce, earning more than $2 million in the last 3 decades 7. With 71 entires, 19th to go McLain Ward and HH Callas held the lead until the end, taking the win in the RoadTrek Cup, 1.50m speed class. Lucy Deslaurier and Hester were 2nd by just 0.28 seconds

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SPRUCE MEADOWS 'CONTINENTAL' CSI 5* – CALGARY, ALBERTA , CANADA

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1. Current world number one, Kent Farrington, and his mount Uceko soar over an oxer 2. Madison Goetzmann and Atticus Diamant take home the title on the U25 Canadian Utilities Winning Round 3. With a beautiful smile, Tiffany Foster, winner of the AltaGas Cup, shares the victory with President and CEO, David Harris 4. Ireland’s Daniel Coyle and his horse Tienna tie for first (with Leslie Howard) in the Canadian Utilities Cup 1.50m 5. After several top three placings, Egypt’s Sameh El Dahan celebrates his first international victory at Spruce with the CP Grand Prix 1.60m 6. McLain Ward hoists the Akita Drilling Cup, part of the Canada150 Speed Series, with Ray Coleman, Akita Drilling’s Senior Vice President 7. Topping 95 entries, Mexico’s Gonzalo Azcarraga and Quite Nice 5 enjoy the victory gallop after their win in the Friends of the Meadows, 1.45m

Photos © Spruce Meadows Media

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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

FEATURE

by Alli Addison photos by Stevie Anna, Javier Castillo, Carlos Montagut, and Anthony Taylor

PATAGONE In this fast-paced modern world, there still exists a wild, rugged and untamed southern land.

Described as, “A limitless place, a trail not yet taken. A land filled with inspiring tales and unaltered truths, and one of the last untouched places on earth,� this land is Patagonia. And this is a place to be explored.

B

ut the slow travel days of yesteryear have nearly been forgotten, as we journey from one side of this earth to the next at unnatural speeds. So how does one reconnect with the land, our culture, and our ancestors? Simple. By way of the horse.

Horse & Style community, it is time to become acquainted with the nomadic, adventuring, storytelling horsewoman, Stevie Anna Plummer. The freelancing free-spirit that is readying herself to embark upon a 1,000 mile exploration of Patagonia, with just herself, her trusty canine companion Darcie, and her two Criollo Argentinian horses. Two feet, four paws, eight hooves, and 1000 miles.Yes, a solo journey across the wild lands of Patagonia.

Prepare yourself to be inspired.

Stevie Anna grew up riding in Texas

Horse & Style: Before we dive into Patagone and your current adventures, let’s start at the beginning. How did your passion for horses, travel and adventure come to be?

Stevie Anna: I was raised in the woods of Oregon and the plains of West Texas to a religious family. For me, horses became an obsession from the moment I knew what a horse was. I started lessons when I was four years old, but my family was never able to afford a horse. So I was forced to ride other peoples’ horses, which offered me so much opportunity to learn, and ultimately made me a good rider. In Texas, we participated in rodeos and playdays. I loved this, not so much for the competition, but for the fun.

It was an opportunity to get out and ride.

But as I grew up, I transitioned out of the adrenaline and into the back country, where there was an element of peace, enjoyment

and serenity. When I graduated high school, I moved to Alaska and began giving pony club lessons and trail rides. I found myself traveling to the lower forty-eight and doing the same thing. I was always a camper as well. Combining the two, horses and nature, was complete harmony. It was where I really wanted to spend my time.

H&S: Traveling and exploring Alaska and the lower forty-eight is a feat in itself. How did you make your way down to Argentina?

SA: I started in Alaska after moving away from Texas. But the dark winters, rainy summers, and tourism...it all started to weigh heavily on me. And there are not a lot of horses in Alaska. They truly need to winter well, so it is a tough place to have horses. I ended up traveling to Patagonia a couple years ago on a scouting trip. I

Stevie Anna and Darcie in Alaska

“

So how does one reconnect with the land, our culture, and our ancestors? Simple. By way of the horse.

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Patagonian Gaucha legend, Carol Jones

discovered that Patagonia is essentially the Alaska of the south, and thought this would be a really cool place to end up. Plus it has this amazing horse culture. I fell in love with the land, moved down three months later, and haven’t looked back.

H&S: That’s a leap of faith, moving to another country by yourself. We are assuming that you met some people in Patagonia that truly inspired you.

SA: Yes. About six months after I moved to Bariloche, Argentina, I came to know Patagonian gaucha legend, Carol Jones, through the local horse community. We became good friends, and began working together guiding pack trips on her ranch.

Jones is considered the ‘granddaughter of Patagonia,’ as it was her grandfather, Jarred Jones, who originally settled here from Texas and helped establish the city of Bariloche. She has been hugely influential on my desire to travel with horses and to live the gaucho lifestyle. She has taught me so much. I’ve been riding since I was a child, but it was Jones, all these years later, who taught me how to care for my animals when in the wilderness, how to pack, how to keep them healthy, and how to search for food and water. She is a tremendous inspiration.

Estancia Nahuel Huapi

H&S: We hear the term Gaucho, but Gaucha not so much. Are horsewomen common in Patagonia?

SA: No. Not at all. Jones really paved the way for female riders. For a long period of time, she was the only woman in the area to ride a horse. Riding was always a man’s activity. When she was young, in her early twenties probably, she took her first trip to the states to work as a guide. It was in the states that she realized how many women actually do ride. So she returned to Patagonia, told her father what she saw, and convinced him to give her five horses to start her pack string. Thirty years later, here she is, guiding excursions across her estancia (ranch) that last anywhere from half-day to twelve-day long treks. Today, I work with Jones guiding these packing trips on the Estancia Nahuel Huapi.

H&S: You will be embarking on your 1,000 mile trek in spring, which is early November in the southern hemisphere. And you are bringing your two horses and your dog. Tell us about your special animals.

SA: At the beginning of this year, I completed my family and welcomed my final horse to the team. So now I have two

Criollos, Argentina’s national horse breed, which are essentially the “mustang” of the south. They’re super tough and have solid temperaments. Both in endurance and stamina, the Criollo breed is unmatched.

Sundance (the buckskin colored or ‘gateado’ as they call it in Argentina) is a fifteenyear-old Criollo mix. He’s very much a gentleman and often paves the way on our routes. Bandido (the black horse or ‘oscuro’) is a ten-year-old Criollo from a ranch near El Bolson, Patagonia. He is definitely a stop and smell the flowers kind of man. He is rock solid; semi-trucks, Darcie’s bodacious barks and even busy roads don’t faze him one bit. However, our challenges arise when it comes to picking up the pace or leaving his buddies back at the ranch.

H&S: We all know a horse that can relate to those challenges! And Darcie, tell us about Darcie.

SA: Darcie is a four-year-old English Shepherd that I got as a puppy while living in Alaska. We have spent our time together exploring from Alaska to Patagonia, and just about everything in-between. So far we have traveled twenty-six states, three countries and counting! This dog lives for the road, the trail, the fresh new scents of all the rugged landscapes our world has

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to offer. And, of course, she has her own hashtag: #TravelsWithDarcie H&S: How do you prepare for a solo journey of this magnitude across the rugged terrain of Patagonia?

SA: Both of my horses are pretty prepared, as they are used to working ranches, hauling gear, being in the mountains, and so on.

They are so incredibly solid. So now it is a matter of keeping them fat and healthy through the winter, so they are in good condition when we prepare to leave come spring. Darcie is already in great shape thanks to our daily ranch work and hikes.

I work with the horses on crossing fences, being tied up overnight, hobbled, essentially numbing them to the elements. We’ve been going out on test rides and we feel ready.

Now we just need to fundraise and pack.

H&S: How can fans, fellow adventure enthusiasts and the horse community help you in this endeavor?

SA: I am currently raising funds which go straight to the necessities to keeping the Patagone team on the trail throughout the estimated four month journey: food for the animals, safety supplies, vet visits, and more.  stevieanna.com

One of the costs I need to cover is horse transportation back from the southern tip of Patagonia to Bariloche, which is over 1,000 miles away. People planning a similar trip often buy a horse, use it for the trek through Patagonia, and then sell it at the end because it is costly to haul the horse back home. But I live here, and I’ve made these animals a part of my family. To finish a trip with them and then have to sell my horses would break my heart. I have set up a Go Fund Me page that breaks down the costs and supplies needed.

Here, fans can give to the pilgrimage, and really, every little bit counts. Even if fans don’t have the funds to contribute, simply sharing the campaign and the story goes a long way. You can support the adventure at gofundme.com/patagone.

H&S: And how can we keep up with you during your excursion?

SA: My background and career is in expedition support, media and communications. So I like to think of myself, heading into this trek, as being very prepared to share the adventure. I will be packing, along with all my necessities, the tools I need to stay connected with the outside world (solar panels for my camera, battery pack, filming equipment, computer,

etc.). I will be sharing updates and pictures through my blog, Instagram, Facebook, and more. My plan is to be as connected as possible, which means going out of our way to find connectivity, which sometimes will be miles from our original route. It is important to me, and my overall goal, to be able to share this trip with the world and inspire people along the way.

H&S: What are your goals with Patagone?

SA: My mission is to discover, document and share my journey of the last wild frontier. I want to inspire those who enjoy slow-paced, traditional travel, while respecting and understanding the local culture, whether this means they are inspired to partake in this same Patagonian excursion, or to travel somewhere else across the world, such as Mongolia, or to simply go for a day ride with their horses. I just want to encourage people to get out there with their animals, in a natural environment. That is my goal. I want to fill my followers with an unbridled spirit for life and adventure. The name “Patagonia” is known to many. ‘Pata’ translates to foot, paw or hoof. “Patagone” denotes going by foot, or in my case, by all three. This will be the ride of a lifetime.

 @stevieanna  @StevieAnna GoFundMe: gofundme.com/patagone

“

It is important to me, and my overall goal, to be able to share this trip with the world and inspire people along the way.

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L I F E of

barbe

by Jana Cohen Barbe

Have You Found Your Herd?

W

e have herding issues at Henley Farms. Boy, do we have herding issues. Before we owned our own farm, we had no idea that there was such a thing as herding issues; and, truth be told, we also did not know that horses could be turned out together. Show-horses are generally not turned out with other horses. They are too expensive an investment to risk the consequences of horseplay. So we were utterly unprepared for life with the herd. However, as often happens on the farm, we have grown from the experience.

Now, all of our horses are turned out with other horses and they cannot tolerate being alone in a paddock. When “best friends” and paddock buddies are separated, we have crying (constant whinnying), rearing, pacing and all sorts of other expressions of horse drama. When we introduce a new horse to a paddock, the “old-timers” squeal like pigs. Really. And then there is the jockeying for “alpha” which takes about three days to sort itself out (okay, maybe three weeks). We now realize that we are terrible predictors of who will exert control of the herd; and we

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have also come to understand that mares are born to be alphas.

A life lesson if there ever was one.

So what is the take away from all of this? Horses have it right.

While herding may be difficult from the perspective of farm management, it is the best way to live. No one should be alone.

Here are some reflections on why we all should find our herd:

The Value of a Good Friend: Our horse, Z, whom I have written about in this column before, “foundered” last year and the consequences of it were dire. Our only options were high-risk surgery or euthanasia. We found an extraordinary veterinarian and we proceeded with the surgery. The surgery was successful but the real test came with the recovery, which would be long and arduous; and our much-adored Z could not go through it alone. He needed a buddy but it had to be a special buddy who would not agitate him but instead would calm and comfort him. We were blessed to have such a horse on our farm – Simba – the perfect nursemaid and best friend – and we

credit him, in no small part, for the sound horse who miraculously recovered beyond everyone’s expectations.

Lesson learned: love and support is critical to our well-being particularly when we are challenged or ill. True for horses and true for people. Love and companionship enable recovery.

The Right Herd Brings Out the Best in Us: In one of our paddocks, we have two older, frail horses: Oliver and Monty. We call the paddock the “old man paddock.” Monty is 28, has no teeth and his tongue hangs out of his mouth all the time, but he loves life on the farm. Last year, he jumped out of the paddock clearing a four-foot fence and he did not have a scratch on him. He motivates Oliver, who is extremely arthritic, to gallop, to rear and to play. They are quite the pair – not much to look at (and I can outrun them), but together they are more fit and more sound than either would be alone.

Lesson learned: the same is true for us. I know that I am blessed to be surrounded by people who elevate me. My amazing family and friends inspire me to be braver than I would otherwise be; they introduce me to new experiences; they motivate me to be more physically active than my sedentary self might opt for; and they encourage me to consider other perspectives and to think more broadly. My professional colleagues also inspire me with their own successes and embolden me to strive to accomplish more. I am better than I would otherwise be because my herd makes me so.

Express Yourself: Our horses need each other and they show their need for each other. “Silvo,” a very tough retired Puissance horse, whines and cries when his best friend, Tiny, leaves the paddock. In our quest to bring all of our past show horses to our farm for retirement, we have brought horses back together who were apart for years; and could clearly see that they remembered each other and celebrated their reunion. In their way, they let each other know how much they are cared for and valued. And wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all did that?

Lesson learned: showing others how much we care about them and how much we appreciate them can be transformative. In the workplace, it is true that people who feel valued will contribute more. And in our personal lives, it is a gift to express longing and to be longed for.

So, go find the right herd and don’t hesitate to run with them.

Surround yourself with loyal and dear friends who will appreciate your presence and bemoan your absence. Life is sweeter in a herd.

Jana Cohen Barbe is a Partner and the former Global Vice Chair of Dentons, the largest law firm in the world. Recognized for her transformative and pioneering leadership, Jana is a frequent author and speaker on women in business, globalization, entrepreneurship and authenticity.

Photos © Dewald Kirsten & Jeff Rogers

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CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S Congratulations to the winners of our May and June Giveaways. In May, reader S. Bellone won a gorgeous pair of Millbrook Leathers. In June, reader S. Smoak won a beautiful Ploughman’s Belts SZ Belt.

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O N the

cover

by Sarah Appel photos by Andrew Ryback

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club

THE FUTURE IS GOLDEN When Horse & Style became a media partner with World Equestrian Center (WEC), I travelled to Wilmington, Ohio several times to see the facility and watched as they expanded and grew it into one of the country’s top horse show venues. While they are still in the process of doing more (which we can’t wait to see!), the family behind WEC – the Roberts – also have ideas for expanding the WEC brand in a big way. So I excitedly said “yes” when I was asked to join them in Ocala, Florida, to stay at their Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, and see the future home of the second location of WEC.

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Golden Ocala is an equestrian lifestyle playground.

BOOTS & BREEC HES WELCOME The Golden Ocala gated community spans 1,200 beautiful acres, and offers several membership options that provide exclusive access to the property’s exceptional Golden Ocala Golf Club, The Tennis Club, Golden Ocala Equestrian Center, The Fitness Center, Golden Ocala Salon and Spa, and a stately 77,000 square foot clubhouse. As soon as I entered the Golden Ocala club house, I knew that their tag-line, “boots and breeches welcome” was true. Vintage equestrian prints hung in the entryway of the lobby and throughout the club house.

The subtle, yet classic equestrian details, from the gold stirrup lamps sitting on the side tables, to a brown leather chair sitting below an iconic hunt print, are meticulously placed and help to make any equestrian feel right at home.

A H O M E AWAY FROM BARN Every young rider (my childhood-self included), dreams of one day living in a house with their horse in their backyard.

My childhood best friend and fellow barn mate and I used to design our future equestrian homes, complete with bedroom windows that opened into our horses’ stalls. At Golden Ocala, those dreams can basically come true. With options of living on the property full time, or leasing a home and barn for the show season, Golden Ocala is an equestrian lifestyle playground. The gorgeous backdrop of live oaks with hanging moss provide a private and serene place to keep your horses. No need to get a horse sitter while you are on vacation, just bring them with you to Golden Ocala and enjoy a luxury vacation with your horse in tow, literally.

A R I D E R ’ S S PA After a long week of horse showing, what’s better, or more welcome, than a spa day? The Golden Ocala Spa and Salon is meant for riders; it offers a well equipped gym, pool, and a nail and hair salon that provides almost every spa treatment you could imagine. Hungry during your time at the spa? (Afterall, a massage, facial and pedicure can be exhausting.) Pre-order your lunch and a glass of wine, and it will arrive perfectly timed in between treatments.

One of the most unique things about the Golden Ocala Spa and Salon is their Magnesphere chair. This amazing machine

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delivers Magnetic Resonance Therapy, which aims to activate reparative processes in specific cells and tissues. Spend an hour in this chair and I dare you not to feel relaxed, or fall blissfully asleep, like I did.

Truthfully, I had to be gently woken up by one of the lovely staff because it was time for me to move on to my next treatment!

Having the opportunity to spend the day at the spa left me relaxed, pampered and beautified – something that all equestrians deserve to feel once in a while.

EVERYONE WINS Because I was there for Horse & Style, my time was primarily focused on all the horse related goodness at Golden Ocala, but it must be said that the resort is not just for riders! It is home to an exclusive 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Ron Garl. This majestic course incorporates eight masterfully recreated tribute holes paying homage to some of the finest courses in the world – holes from courses in Augusta, Royal Troon, Baltusrol, Muirfield and St. Andrews, to name a few. It is truly a world class golfing experience.

Other non-equestrian activities include swimming and working out in the fitness center, where guests can chose to exercise alone, participate in a group class, or work with a trainer. A trip to Golden Ocala would not be complete without a game of tennis. The extremely popular Tennis Club offers six Har-Tru Hydro-Grid courts made of the highest quality clay surface available. Guests can enjoy the courts in the sun during the day, or under lights at night.

In 2018, WEC in Ocala will be up and running, and hosting a multitude of horse shows and equestrian events. So rather than leave the family at home while you head out to show, bring them with you to WEC Ocala! There is something for everyone at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. It truly is a win-win for all involved.

KNICKERS & NIBBLES One of the best parts of Golden Ocala is the food. If you have just dismounted but your hunger can’t wait, show up in your boots and breeches at the Knickers Bar and Grill. Or, if you are feeling like you want a finer dining experience, dine at Rasberry’s, and enjoy their progressive American cuisine. Golden Ocala hosts numerous weddings each year, so they are more than fully equipped to manage large scale private events. Whether you and your family are celebrating a first

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“

...a world class golfing experience.

“

...featuring the winning combination of top equestrian sport and country club living.

A special thank you to Amanda Steege, professional Hunter rider and Golden Ocala brand ambassador, for allowing Andrew Ryback to capture her time at Golden Ocala.

blue ribbon or a Grand Prix victory, Golden Ocala will have a special place to entertain your party. Locals love to eat at Golden Ocala’s restaurants too, which is always a good indicator that the food, drinks and company are wonderful. Take a seat at the bar, and a famous horse whisperer or Olympic rider might just sit on the stool next to you.

THE FUTURE IS GOLDEN WEC in Wilmington, Ohio is quickly becoming one of the most prominent horse show locations in the country. So it came as no surprise that the WEC team wanted to build a second location in Ocala, Florida, aptly named World Equestrian Center Ocala. Slated to host events in 2018, the new venue will be a world-class equestrian sports venue, and will sit adjacent to the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club property. The 300+ acre equestrian location will boast four 262' x 550' climate-controlled indoor arenas, an open-air stadium and fifteen outdoor arenas. The complex plans to build stabling accommodations for 1,500 horses, and offer retail spaces and restaurants to make events a wellrounded experience. WEC Ocala is striving to create a unique destination location, featuring the winning combination of top equestrian sport and country club living.

After my first visit to WEC in Ohio, I left feeling like I was a part of their community, and I became eager to return and see how their plans had come to fruition. Every time I visited throughout the year, my expectations were well exceeded, and I was always impressed with the level of detail and thought that went into every design. After staying at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, and seeing the future of the new WEC Ocala location, I feel the same familiar eagerness to see what they have planned, become a reality. With golf, the spa, swimming, exceptional dining, and horses, next time I come to Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, I’m definitely bringing the whole family!

FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N :  goldenocala.com  @goldenocala  @GoldenOcalaWeddings  worldequestriancenter.com

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STYLE

profiles

Trendy Trainer

by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

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A Bag for all Reasons What is a handbag? A convenient place to store your wallet, phone, keys, kombucha?

Wrong. A handbag makes or breaks an outfit. Carrying the season’s latest leather goodness is not only good for your style reputation, but good for your soul. A handbag doesn’t have to cost as much as your monthly mortgage, but just remember, all bags are not created equal.

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Jovial Junior Crop Denim Jacket, J.Crew, $110 Suede Snaffle Bit Headband, L. Erickson, $118 Leather Knee Boots, Etro, $1,150 Pebble Floral-Print Drop-Waist Dress, Rebecca Minkoff, $188 Joan Small Suede-Paneled Leather Shoulder Bag, See by Chloé, $460 Lucky Style Bracelet, Bling Jewelry, $21

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Gorgeous Gent Lambskin Jacket, Ralph Lauren, $1,595 Ace Skinny-Fit Denim Jeans, Acne Studios, $200 Garden Bracelet in Silver, Gucci, $950 Mason Leather Army Backpack, Jack Spade, $398 Slim-Fit Gingham Cotton Shirt, Dunhill, $195 Polished Leather Boots, Ermenegildo Zegna, $1,395

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DESTINATION

by Gundi Younger

African Safari

Yo a, Gundi L-R: Tyg Felicia nd Gordie a

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unger,

K E N YA O N HORSEBAC K; MY MAASAI MARA RIDE

About twenty-five years ago, I went on an amazing safari in Africa, and I’ve wanted to go back ever since. So when the opportunity arose to explore Kenya’s Mara Conservancies on horseback, I said yes without hesitation, as did my dear friend Philippa when I invited her to join me. She traveled from London to meet me in Nairobi to embark on the trip of our lifetimes.

S A FA R I S U N L I M I T E D TAKES THE REINS Once I decided to go, the experienced crew at Safaris Unlimited took over all the arrangements. Before I knew it, I was landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where I was greeted by a member of the crew, and transported to the charming Macushla House in the Nairobi suburb of Karen. Philippa arrived later that night, and the next morning we were transported to Wilson Airport where we met the two other safari travelers; Julie, from Wellington, New Zealand; and

Susanna, a British resident of Abu Dhabi.

We quickly discovered that we all shared a passion for horses; and I can now say that we are friends for life.

and respect for Africa’s people, wildlife and environment is palpable in everything he says and does. He was the perfect guide for our 120 mile trip through the Mara.

M E E T I N G T H E S A FA R I S U N L I M I T E D FA M I LY We flew on a little Cessna Grand Caravan to the Maasai Mara (or as the locals call it, the Mara), and were met by Gordie Church, legendary Owner/Operator/Professional Safari Guide of Safaris Unlimited. Gordie was born in Kenya and has been going on safari since he was a young boy. His passion

When we arrived at our campsite we were warmly met by the entire crew. Gordie’s beautiful wife, Felicia, and their adorable twenty-two month old daughter, Tyga said hello first. One of Felicia’s many jobs was to tend to the horses, and her knowledge about, and devotion to, each animal was amazing. She had safari-trained each horse that was with the group, and had even

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brought along two of her young homebred horses that were just beginning their safari career.

British-born Daisy, an aspiring safari guide, was knowledgeable and helpful about anything related to the wildlife. Her smart, generous and sunny disposition entertained us endlessly. Another British-born guide,Venetia, lives in Kenya and works for Sirai Stud in Laikipia, as their specialist in modern equine reproduction. Her goal is to breed the perfect safari horse. On our safari, she was another expert on the wildlife and the horses, and she assisted with anything horse related.

There were many more people in the crew, working to make sure the safari ran seamlessly, as it always did. Each person was kind, friendly and warm, and they worked wonderfully as a team.

FIVE S TAR “C AMPIN G” AC CO M M O DAT I O N S During the course of our safari, we all stayed in private, canvas tents, but the word “tents” really does not do the rooms justice. These tents, custom designed and handmade in Kenya, were roomy, mosquito-proof, and simply furnished in traditional safari camping style with double or single beds, carpets and bedside tables. The beds were very comfortable, with warm feather duvets and Egyptian cotton sheets. At night, a hot water bottle placed at the foot of the bed added an extra bit of luxury. Each tent had a separate private canvas shower and toilet placed conveniently nearby.

The level of service was equally impressive. We had coffee and tea delivered to our rooms in the morning, and they offered laundry service every other day. This was glamping at its finest.

ZERO FOOTPRINT ON THE LAND Sustainability is a big theme for Safaris Unlimited (and is of utmost of importance to Gordie), so each time we left a campground, the land was left the way we initially found it. For meals, there was not a plastic item to be found. Each meal was served on porcelain dishes, each drink was served in a glass, and only linen napkins were provided. The same eco-friendly standard was kept whether we were eating at camp, or out for a picnic during our ride in the bush.

This commitment to sustainability extends to the camp at large, which consisted of numerous guest tents, a dining tent, a kitchen and pantry tent, and several tents for the crew. The team moved our camp every other day, which meant the entire setup had to be taken down, loaded up, transported to the next campsite, and then rebuilt before we arrived with our horses. Once it was packed up, all that was left were some ashes from the fires. It felt good knowing our time in the Mara was not adversely affecting the land or its people.

“...the word ‘tents’ really does not do the rooms justice. These tents, custom designed and handmade in Kenya, were roomy, mosquito-proof...” july/august ·

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“...the menus were diverse and delicious...”

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The Safaris U

FINE DINING AND DRINKS Nightly dinners were served in the dining tent, and the darkness was beautifully illuminated by hurricane lanterns and a nearby campsite fire. The table was always strikingly set with a variety of safari themed decorations, one night’s decor being a warthog skull and local greenery.

For each dinner we enjoyed an amazing three-course meal that was cooked over an open fire. The menus were diverse and delicious; a combination of soup, fish, lamb, beef fillet, roast chicken, freshly baked bread, fresh vegetables and fruit were served every day. Philippa is a gluten-free vegetarian, but her dietary needs were welcomed and deliciously accommodated at each meal (they even baked fresh gluten-free bread for her!).

Before dinner we met for cocktails around the campfire. The iconic safari drink, gin and tonic was everyone’s drink of choice. We liked to think our drinking was somewhat medicinal; the quinine in tonic water is said to treat malaria and is thought to repel mosquitos, which carry the disease. The bar was always fully stocked and we enjoyed lovely wines with dinner. While the food was wonderful, it was the lively and entertaining conversations that made our

nlimited crew

meals so fabulous. No calls. No texts.

No Facebooking. Just a lot of time spent becoming close friends and learning new things about each other.

RIDING RIPTIDE Prior to going on safari, I was asked to fill out a questionnaire about my riding experience. This helped Felicia pair me with the perfect horse, Riptide.

Riptide, or Rip, as I came to call him with affection, is a nine-year-old, 16.1hh Thoroughbred by the famous Argentine stallion, Pochard. Riptide is Gordie’s back-up guide horse, which meant that he always wanted to be in the front, right behind the lead horse. That also meant that my gallops across the rocky and uneven plains were always fast, and we were always in front – Rip made sure of it.

As the guide’s lead horse, Rip had to be constantly on the lookout. Many times I noticed him scanning the horizon, his head swinging left and right, or peeking into bushes, while carefully avoiding holes in the ground. He was so alert and careful, I finally decided to stop worrying and follow his lead. At one point, there were lions just twenty meters from us, hiding in the bushes. I was convinced we were

lunchmeat, but Rip wasn’t worried, so neither was I. But later, when a worried elephant cow charged us (she was worried about her baby that had wandered away from her herd), Rip knew the situation was serious, so he “grew wings” and got us out of there! All I had to do was shorten my reins and hold on, and he kept me safe.

I was very impressed with the level of horse care; I would entrust my own horses to the care of Safaris Unlimited anytime. The horses were immaculately turned out, and when we got back to camp or stopped for lunch in the bush, they were taken care of immediately and let out to graze. The team made sure that during our three to four hour morning rides the horses got frequent breaks, and sometimes we even dismounted mid-ride to give their backs a rest. It was great to see Gordie and Felicia treat the horses as valued members of the team, making sure each one was healthy and happy.

WONDERFUL WILDLIFE Every day held incredible moments and fantastic highlights. It’s difficult to put into words what it’s like to come around a corner and be right next to a herd of beautiful giraffes. Or elephants. Or wildebeests. Or gazelles. Or zebras. Often

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several of these species would graze peacefully right next to each other. It is equally hard to describe the feeling of competing excitement and fear, as when we would find ourselves right next to a pack of lions or herd of buffalo. It was unbelievable to be that close to the wildlife, and Gordie was always there to answer any and all questions about them, their mannerisms and their habitat.

The nights at camp were equally incredible. The stars appeared extra bright, more plentiful, and it seemed they were so close that I could just pluck them out of the sky. The night sounds were equal parts exciting and worrisome. While it was always fun at breakfast to play “guess the wildlife noises from last night,” it was a little scary to actually be in the dark and hear lions roar, hippos grunt and hyenas cry. At night, it all sounded very close to camp. Or perhaps it sounded that way because it was very close to camp? Luckily, I never found out first hand.

With that being said, I always felt safe with Safaris Unlimited. At night we had a guard by the tents, and two more guards stayed by the horses. Gordie and his team are very experienced and never put us in any dangerous situations. He expertly guided us through several conservancies and patiently shared his extensive knowledge about wildlife, birds, flora and fauna, the Kenyan people, the ecosystems, and the list goes on.

W H AT L I F E I S A L L A BO U T My Safaris Unlimited trip was a great reminder about how it is possible to live minimally. I never took my phone out of my bag, except once or twice to call home. My bag only weighed twenty-five pounds because I didn’t need to bring anything besides comfortable riding attire, riding boots, a couple of t-shirts, a pair of shorts, a pair of jeans and a sweater for cooler nights. I didn’t bring anything dressy – no makeup, no fancy shoes, no handbags.

Gordie and Felicia took us on an unforgettable journey, and when it was time for us all to depart, despite all the amazing memories we were taking with us, it was hard to say goodbye. Our group had spent a week together sharing stories, insights, and lots of laughter; it felt like leaving a newly formed family. However, I left knowing I would certainly be back to make more new friends, and to see Gordie and Felicia again. I am excited to convince my non-riding friends and family to come with me next time, as Safaris Unlimited can customize a trip to suit any group’s needs, regardless of age or riding level.

This trip will always be close to my heart. My time in the Mara with Safaris Unlimited allowed me to slow down, take a break from the daily craziness of everyday life, and reflect on what is really necessary to have a good time: beautiful scenery, lovely horses, and interesting and entertaining company.

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“...Gordie and Felicia took us on an unforgettable journey...”

The landscape is very diverse and we traveled over rolling savannah, acacia woodland, riverine forest along the Mara, and through the Olare Orok River.

The Mara is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife preserves, and we were able to see baboons, buffalo, cheetahs, crocodiles, dik-diks, elands, elephants, gazelles, giraffes, hippopotamuses, hyenas, impalas, jackals, lions, mongooses, monkeys, topis, warthogs, waterbucks, wildebeests, zebras and more. july/august ·

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MORE ABOUT THE MAASAI MARA Along the northern and eastern boundaries of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, most of the former Maasai cattle-grazing districts have been converted into Kenya Wildlife Conservancies (similar to a land trust). The organization that supports this effort, Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association, is setting out to change how Kenya’s wildlife and wild places are managed, as well as to strengthen people’s rights to manage and benefit from nature (kwcakenya.com).

In these exclusive wildlife sanctuaries, the Maasai landowners (each of whom owns a small tract of unfenced ranch land) have come together to benefit from safari tourism by agreeing to joint land-use and lease agreements with safari camp operators. The operators pay their partners an annual rent and a daily fee for each visitor. The conservancies are exclusive to their guests and a limited number of camps in each conservancy can organize bush walks and night drives, neither of which is possible in the National Reserve.

This system is unique, and very important, as it protects the land from development, farming, being converted to cattle land, etc. This in turn protects the Maasai Mara ecosystem, which is home to approximately 25% of Kenya’s wildlife, and the Maasai people, who use the land to work their livestock. In this way, Safaris Unlimited, and other similar safari businesses, are instrumental in keeping the Maasai Mara whole and preserved.

 safarisunlimited.com  info@safarisunlimited.com  Safaris Unlimited (Africa)

 @safaris.unlimited  Safaris Unlimited (Africa) Ltd Photos courtesy of Safaris Unlimited

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TRAVEL

by Alli Addison photos by Lauren Ross & Alli Addison

Viva la

VINO VAQUEROS! Saddle Up for Wine, Horses, and the California Countryside

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M

y day began as many do. It was a beautiful Tuesday spring morning in California. The sun was shining after what felt like a perpetual hundred-year storm, and today, on this morning, there was not a cloud in the sky. Usually, I would head to the barn for a jumping lesson, but this day was in fact a bit different. For on this day, I was wearing my well-worn jeans, manure-clad cowboy boots and a wide-brimmed felt fedora. I was switching gears, from hunter jumper to ranch girl, trading in my trusty paddock boots for cowboy boots, and heading south on this stunning afternoon, to Santa Ynez Wine Country to see the California countryside the way it was always meant to be seen. By horseback. And with wine.

As I drove along, making my way south through the rolling hills, grazing cattle, oak tree groves and acres upon acres of vineyards, it was easy to see why rural wine country beckons to so many. Santa Ynez Wine Country is positively overflowing with quaint, rustic charm. Eventually, I came upon the blue agave-clad entrance of Estelle Vineyards, home to the area’s best trail riding and wine tasting experience,Vino Vaqueros. Through the vines – planted to varietals such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Blanc and Viognier, and up a dirt road I drove. Crews of workers tended to the blocks of vines on either side of me, and I could tell that bud break was just beginning (when the first buds of the growing season emerge from a dormant vine). I came upon a wonderfully historic-looking white board and batten barn with hunter green trim and well-worn crossbuck sliding barn doors.

Planted in front was a series of cacti and in the main entryway, hung a pair of antlers and a Welcome Riders sign. There was green grass as far as the eye could see, a gentle breeze, and the sound of horses rustling in their stalls. It was a California Ranch to the core, and I was smitten.

I had arrived a bit early, so at that moment I was the only one at the barn, aside from several lazy ranch dogs enjoying a siesta. I took the liberty of wandering about. Expansive tack areas, saddles of all sizes and a multitude of bridles hung on the walls. And I could not overlook a large stack of surfboards hanging above the saddle racks – so California. In one corner of the barn stood a red tasting area with a walk-up bar, rustic oak table, and oversized western art. The feeling was relaxed

and welcoming; it was the type of place where you could easily unwind after a trail ride and enjoy a great glass of wine.

Soon, Jaye Ganibi, a charismatic cowgirl with an infectious smile came riding up on a Tobiano paint gelding. I could tell immediately – thanks to her relaxed and fun personality – that today was going to be a good day. And what better way to see and enjoy all that Vino Vaqueros has to offer than with the owner herself?! Owned and operated by Jaye and her husband Peter Ganibi (a former professional polo player and horse trainer), these self-described horse enthusiasts possess the knowledge and experience needed to create something special for their visitors. They have offered this unforgettable adventure for years.

She led me over to a group of horses awaiting their riders, explaining that the Vino Vaqueros’ string of animals can accommodate riding parties of up to twelve people. The horses were kind, quiet, and a bit sleepy. Rightfully so. The afternoon had such a relaxed vibe about it, anyone could have opted for a good nap. We chatted for a bit, I signed a few waivers, and watched as Jaye saddled each of the horses. On this afternoon I had the pleasure of accompanying a couple from Los Angeles that comes up to Santa Ynez Wine Country twice a year. During every single trip, no matter the circumstances, they squeeze a ride with Vino Vaqueros into their itinerary. “We just love it; every single ride is a bit different, and we look forward to it each and every time,” they told me.

T

oday we would be embarking on a trail ride through the 1,001 acre Estelle Ranch with Vino Vaqueros horses Duke, Belle and Chris. I was assigned Chris, the sorrel gelding, who knew that his number one job was to take care of his passenger, regardless of his/her level of experience. Although, I suspect he knew immediately that this wasn’t my first rodeo.

Also accompanying us on our trek was the loyal Ganibi family dog ‘Nana,’ who eagerly awaited our departure. “She’s our ride or die doggie,” laughed Jaye.

Jaye made sure each rider felt comfortable, and had waters packed in each saddle bag; and soon we were ready to embark. During our ride she explained that there are several different routes they take when touring the ranch and surrounding vineyards. Today’s track led us up the range, overlooking the lush and rolling hills of Santa Ynez. From high atop,

“

As I drove along, making my way south through the rolling hills, grazing cattle, oak tree groves and acres upon acres of vineyards, it was easy to see why rural wine country beckons to so many.

”

and on this clear afternoon, you could see the entire valley – every ranch, every winery, every vineyard, and more. Once we reached the peak, we began our descent down the other side through a series of gates. While the expansive views of the valley are a sight to be seen, the quiet and intimate winding passage through the moss-laden oak groves is a certain rival. We came upon a clearing where a small herd of purebred Angus cattle grazed.

The horses, as expected, showed little interest in their four-legged bovine neighbors.

Eventually, we made our way into the vineyard. I’ve had the pleasure of riding through many ranches here in California (I’m a ranchers daughter, so it comes with the territory), and I’ve had the opportunity to tour countless vineyards (I also worked in the wine industry for seven years). But, I have never been able to ride a horse through

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a working vineyard. This was a true treat.

And a ride through the vineyard is almost always included, “unless the sprinklers are on,” says Jaye, “...which has happened once.”

The vineyard workers were still hard at work, moving from block to block, and working on different vines. Their portable stereos played loudly, and you could hear the light banter and laughter among the crews.

We rode through the vines of Bordeaux, Rhone and Italian varietals. Located in the Happy Canyon AVA, Estelle Vineyards is considered to be in one of the warmer climate zones of Santa Ynez Valley, which aids in the development of expressive, fullflavored fruit. While the property is large at just over 1000 acres, only eighty acres is actually planted to fruit. And it was through these eighty acres that we rode. We were able to soak in the beauty of the surrounding

vines and the essence of a working vineyard, thanks to our slow pace by horseback.

Jaye, and Nana the dog, led us back to that historical white board and batten barn with green trim. The afternoon had progressed and the warmth of the sun made the facade look even more inviting than it had upon my arrival. I dismounted my fearless, sure-footed steed, Chris, handed him over to Jaye, and made my way to the tasting area. She presented us with two wines to sample. The first was a refreshing Grenache Blanc with bright stone fruit and white floral aromas, crisp acidity, and elegant flavors of honey and citrus. The second wine Jaye presented for sampling was a red Syrah-based blend with dark fruit notes such as black cherry and blackberry, layered upon facets of white pepper and oak on the nose, with red currant, dark chocolate

and a wonderfully subtle minerality on the palate. Once guests have sampled the two offerings, they are able to select a glass of their favorite. I chose the Grenache Blanc, as the afternoon embodied the lightness of this wine, and it was the perfect way to end my Vino Vaqueros experience.

What is offered and what are the details, you ask? The Vino Vaqueros string of horses are suitable for all levels of riders, and kids ages ten and up are absolutely welcome.

Jaye and Peter offer a “beginner” and an “experienced” rider route, but all rides are done at a walk. And when visiting with friends and taking in the landscape of the Santa Ynez Valley, it is lovely to do so at a slower pace. Add-on items such as deli lunches and farm-to-table catering are available for weekend rides, with advanced notice. Two rides are offered, one with

wine sampling and one without. Both rides through the ranch and vineyard take about seventy-five to ninety minutes, and prices range from $115.00–$125.00 per person.

There was so much to love about this California-centric adventure. Don’t get me wrong; I love being able to load up my own horses, meet up with friends and set out on an exciting escapade. But there is something to be said about simply showing up, riding, chatting, drinking and relaxing, without having to lift much of a finger. And with the capacity to take up to twelve riders on a single outing,Vino Vaqueros has “fun group activity” written all over it.

So, make your way out to the California countryside, saddle up with Vino Vaqueros, and as Jaye and Peter Ganibi say, “Ride.

Wine. Repeat.”

GRAB A BITE Before or after your ride at Vino Vaqueros, stop by one of these local eateries and grab a bite to go. Sit out on the barnside picnic area and enjoy the vineyard surroundings with some delicious eats.

Bell Street Farm bellstreetfarm.com Sides Hardware and Shoes Restaurant brothersrestaurant.com Industrial Eats industrialeats.com W H E R E T O S TAY The Santa Ynez Valley is filled with charming places to stay. So how to choose? “I am a fan of the little guys when it comes to Inns,” says Jaye Ganibi. “Ballard Inn, Fess Parker and Hotel Corque, but I also think renting a VRBO or an AirBnB is a great way to really enjoy the Valley as well.”

Ballard Inn ballardinn.com Fess Parker Wine Country Inn fessparkerinn.com Hotel Corque hotelcorque.com W H AT TO TA S T E There is no shortage of great wineries and breweries in Santa Ynez Valley.

“The wineries are doing such a great job getting creative with what they offer. Definitely visit Saarloos and Sons for the wine pairing/cupcake flight, Zinke for their outdoor games, and Fig Mountain Brew for amazing beer,” says Jaye.

Saarloos and Sons aarloosandsons.com Zinke Wine Co. zinkewines.com Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. figmtnbrew.com

Learn more by visiting vinovaqueros.com and get connected via Instagram @vinovaqueros

The Ride of Your Life.

SeCure YOur pLACe nOw in AnTiCipATiOn Of The wOrLd equeSTriAn CenTer premierinG in 2018.

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O L D S A L E M FA R M S P R I N G H O R S E S H OWS – N O R T H S A L E M , N Y

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1. Amanda Steege and Playmaker compete in the professional hunter ranks 2. Beezie Madden and Breitling LS lead the victory gallop after winning the $50,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix CSI2*, presented by The Kincade Group 3. Each Sunday, leadline riders get a chance to ride on the Grand Prix Field 4. Amateur rider, Jenny Jones, and her mount, Ulimir Woallas, compete on the Grand Prix Field at Old Salem Farm 5. Andrew Ramsay and Cocq a Doodle enjoy the honor’s round after winning the $130,000 Empire State Grand Prix CSI3*, presented by The Kincade Group 6. Old Salem Farm’s iconic grass grand prix field is fun to ride on, and makes for great pictures 7. Lee McKeever gives HH Carlos Z some encouragement before he hits the Grand Prix Field with McLain Ward in the irons

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Photos © Lindsay Brock/Jump Media

TRAVEL story by Pam Maley photos by Boo Hardy

HORSE-TREKKING IN ICELAND

Just don’t call them ponies! There is an awful lot of horse packed into these diminutive equines that possess an endearing shock of mane that goes in all directions.The Icelandic horses are Iceland’s most faithful servants.While their bodies may be small, their personalities are large, and their hearts even larger. Sure-footed, long-lived, and hardy, they possess great courage and endurance, and are able to cross even the roughest terrain. “They had us at ‘hello,’ and we wanted to bring them home,” says Debbie Long, one of a trio of Lexington (KY) women who joined a week’s ride, along with six other riders, in Iceland in July 2016. july/august ·

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Iceland is an incredibly beautiful country, with breathtaking landscapes not found anywhere else; a nation of 300,000 people, and 100,000 horses.

They don’t import any livestock, and therefore no diseases; so vaccinations are unnecessary. When Long’s group arrived, their boots, gloves, and all their horse equipment, were disinfected, lest unfamiliar organisms be introduced.

Prior to arrival, the riders were asked to fill out a questionnaire that would help the outfitters determine riding ability, and then each guest was matched with a horse. “The first horse you get on is the one that you want to have the last ride on,” Long explains. “The riders could be paired up with ‘favorite’ horses, but we pretty much fell in love with the first one we rode. The name ‘pony’ never occurred to us after we got on. They are horses in every way but size: their attitude, their strength; they are sensible and brave, curious and kind.

But they are all about business. Even the young ones are wise.”

Debbie Long & friends

Long’s group had two guides: a man and his daughter-in-law; and two more team members accompanied them. These latter were in charge of the herd of about 25 horses that went along with the ride. One person rode in front of the herd, and one in back, and the horses just followed along pretty much in single file. They never deviated; they just stayed in line.

There wasn’t a runaway, or a fight; they simply did their job. The riders, when not mounted, loved to walk out among the horses, and Boo Hardy, a member of the Lexington trio who is an accomplished photographer, spent a lot of time among them. “They came up to sniff,” says Hardy. “They are so curious, and so kind. None of us ever felt threatened. We were just in love.”

The riders noticed that a young mare had been introduced to the herd, and though she clearly wanted to be accepted, that hadn’t happened yet. She was always a little bit separate from the others, doing her best to be good. “She instantly became the crowd favorite,” Long says. “Everybody was silently rooting for her. The last day on the trail, two of the group brought her up to the place where the people were staying, and gave her special treats.”

Conscientious equestrian girls, our Lexington three noticed that these horses didn’t get a lot of grooming, so Long occasionally picked up a lava rock to use as a curry comb, and gave hers a good scratch, receiving a delighted reaction in return.

After journeying for about four hours in the morning, they would stop for lunch and a rest. They would remove their saddles, and their horses would then join the herd accompanying them.

The two men/women in charge of the horses would use stakes and string to make a ‘corral,’ and all the horses would crowd in together for about an hour-and-a-half rest, fenced, as an old Kentucky horseman once said, ‘by consent of the animal.’ The riders had started their day with breakfast, and at the same time, they were provided with a buffet to make lunch for the trail, which they ate at this first stop.

When it was time to ‘mount up’ again, the riders would put their saddles on one of the horses that hadn’t been ridden, and off they would go. Most days, they would be on the trail for about seven hours, according to Long, and they always rode two horses – and usually a third, after an afternoon break.

“Strong and healthy, hardy enough to survive the Icelandic winter, these horses are so fit that it never felt like they were overtaxed,” she said.

The Icelandic horse has a special extra gait all its own, called the tölt, and Long couldn’t help smiling as she described it. “It’s the most incredible gait – similar to a saddlebred’s rack. You go so fast! When we first experienced it, we couldn’t stop laughing! The horses seem to love moving at the tölt, and they can speed through the open, sometimes rough, landscape for 20–30 minutes without stopping. We didn’t post, though we could have; we didn’t need to. The gait was smooth, and our saddles were like dressage saddles, with no knee rolls, made for riding with long stirrups and a deep seat.”

Iceland, an island nation that is part of Europe, is on a latitude similar to that of Alaska; in July, the days are warm, with about twenty-one hours of sunlight.

Sundown was at about midnight, and sunrise at about three o’clock a.m. The rooms in the hotel (the first and last

nights), and in the cabins along the way, were all outfitted with blackout curtains at the windows.

The groups fly into Reykjavik, “a cool town,” says Long. “Because of the extended sunlight, July is warm, and the flowers are gorgeous. It’s a fishing town, and the food is fabulous.

(Long is a restauranteur, the owner of Dudley’s in Lexington, so she knows a thing or two about food!) I had read that the food culture in Iceland is challenged by what’s available, but it was very fresh, and delicious. Because of the limitations of availability, the food is creative and flavorful.” Long admits, though, that she drew the line at horse and puffin, both of which were well-prepared, but not appealing to her. The diet is predominantly fish, though beef was served, from local cattle, as no livestock is imported.

Beer and wine were always available, but Cabby Boone, one of the Lexington three, prefers vodka. So… no problem; she brought it with her, only to find that mixers were scarce, finding at one stop that the only mixer was hot chocolate. Oh, well – you roll with (or without!) the punches!

‘Making hay while the sun shines’ is more than just a silly saying in Iceland, it seems. The town was bustling all night long. The people, Long tells us, are lovely – easy-going, gracious, never stressed-out. Iceland is a popular tourist destination, despite the fact that hotels, restaurants, food, etc., are quite expensive. The hotel accommodations are European: small rooms, but very nice.

Icelanders still use the naming system of their long Scandinavian heritage, whereby the children, rather than being given a family surname, are named using the father’s (occasionally the mother’s) first name. For example, if Jón Einarsson had a son named Ólafur and a daughter named Sigriõur, their last names would be Jónsson and Jónsdóttir, respectively.

When explaining this at one of their stops, the young woman who was one of the guides, told them, “There’s a registry kept by the Icelandic Naming Committee, and when you’ve met someone that you like in a bar, you go straight home and check the registry to be sure he’s not your cousin!”

On the trail, the groups stayed in hosteltype cabins, with bunk beds, in their own sleeping bags that they are told to bring with them. “This is not a trip for glamour,” declares Long. “On the trail, we were way out there, sometimes in places accessible only on horseback.”

The countryside is stunning, with its volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields; but you don’t see people. Though it’s a hot tourist spot, it isn’t ‘touristy.’

“We’d ride across lava fields, pebbly but not hard, that looked like a moonscape.

And then,” says Long, “suddenly we’d come upon a breathtakingly gorgeous waterfall.” The only vegetation was a type of lichen, soft and spongy (“We had to feel it, lie down on it, to see how it felt,” Long grinned.)

One day it was rainy, so the ride was cancelled. But the guides handed out bright orange rainsuits for a hike to the hot springs. Upon arrival, they offered everyone the opportunity to swim.

“There was a bathroom like you’d find at the Y, where we could change into our bathing suits,” Long recounts with a smile, “but people weren’t exactly jumping at the chance.” A veteran traveler, with an irrepressible sense of adventure, Long told herself, “Well . . .

I’m here, and when will I ever have this chance again?” So, into her bathing suit.

“Then, there were several hundred very chilly yards to traverse to get to the hot springs. Once in, though, I was glad I had done it, and it felt great. But no one was anxious to get out and make the trek back to the bathroom!”

An inveterate traveler, most of Long’s journeys are on horseback, and in the company of her two companions. She has been on many (Argentina, Chile, India, Kenya, Uruguay, Colorado, and Mongolia, to name a few). Her favorite, she says, was her trip to Africa, but this was her second favorite – and it’s largely because the horses were such a treat to ride.

F O R I N F O R M AT I O N , O R T O B O O K A T R I P, CONTACT: Íshestar Riding tours Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: +354-555-7000 ishestar@ishestar.is | ishestar.is

Hiking to the hot springs In the corral

Waterfall and fjord

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THE NEW & EXCITING HITS BALMORAL PARK – CRETE, IL

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1. A successful duo, Haley Gassel and Quite Dark 2 flash a victory smile in the SJHOF Jr/A-O Jumper Classic, with the Balmoral Park water tower in the background 2. Clear over the airy AIG vertical, Jennifer Cardelli and Virantos are on their way to a win in the NAL Child/Adult Jumper Classic 3. Grinning for the camera, Crystal Lettinga and Legacy accept their award for a victory in the Modified Child/Adult Jumper Classic 4. Meagan Murray-Tenuta rode the six-year-old stallion Cheeky to his very first USHJA National Hunter Derby win 5. Maggie Jayne was 1st and 2nd in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. She was 1st on Standing Ovation, pictured here, and was 2nd on Like I Said 6. Cecilia Menendez and Tillikum finished 3rd in the Low Child/ Adult Jumper Classic Photos © Andrew Ryback Photography

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by Juliana Chapman

T

How the Stars Shape Your Equestrian Future

here are many influences that shape an equestrian into an elite athlete, but did you know that birth date might be one of them? To learn more, I interviewed longtime astrologer, Liane Wade, who explained how a person’s horoscope, or ‘sign,’ contributes to building a successful career with horses.

There are twelve Sun signs in the zodiac that provide general guidance on a person’s personality. “The Sun signs are what your horoscope is based on –

they are the most common guide,” said Wade. She goes on to explain, “People who work with animals tend to be born under an ‘animal sign.’ However, every person is ruled by the ten planets as well, the most influential being the Sun, the Moon and the rising sign.” Sun sign and planet shape an individual in all aspects of their life, but it is important to note that individuals on the cusp may actually favor the preceding sign.

As equestrians, we know how important our support team is in our success. So which Sun signs are considered powerhouse

‘match-ups’ when it comes to human connections? Wade details, “Usually people do not get along that well with the Sun sign on either side of them. They may get along with their polar opposite sign the best, or those opposite them may be people who play a major role in shaping their lives.”

Although Wade stressed that “for a true reading of your horoscope you’ll need to know your exact birth time,” let’s have some fun and take a look at the common traits for each Sun sign, and the birth dates of some of the world’s top equestrians, to see if the findings match up.

Liane Thomas Wade has been practicing and studying astrology for more than thirty years. She lives in New York City and has been the President of the Uranian Society, a specialized system of astrology, for over ten years. She is the Membership Director of the NCGR, the largest astrological association in the world. Email: liane@panix.com

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CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

Dec. 22nd – Jan. 19th Animal Sign: The Mountain Goat

Jan. 20th – Feb. 18th

This earthy sign is the most practical of the zodiac. Capricorns like calm and order and try to avoid conflict as much as possible.

They are extremely ambitious and are true to their animal sign of the goat climbing up the mountain. Positive traits for the goat include being reliable, practical, sensible, loyal and patient. As a sign ruled by the energy of Saturn, they can also be cold, rigid and slow to change. Capricorns are serious competitors and love the challenge and camaraderie of the sport.

In the sign of Aquarius, the self-expressive nature combines with the communicative strength of air. As a fixed sign, they tend to stay firm on their ideas and usually have a progressive viewpoint.

Their positive traits include originality, and they are inventive, intellectual, friendly and independent. Aquarians crave their freedom, and close personal relationships tend to feel restrictive.

Uranus – a revolutionary planet that energizes the Universe, rules this sign. Aquarians relish being in the competitive spotlight and approach the equestrian discipline with intelligence and drive.

FA M O U S C A P R I C O R N E Q U E S T R I A N S Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, Dec. 26, 1969 Kent Farrington, Dec. 28, 1980 Nick Skelton, Dec. 30, 1957 Jessica Springsteen, Dec. 30, 1991 Shane Sweetnam, Jan. 1, 1981 Ian Millar, Jan. 6, 1947

TAURUS

FA M O U S AQ UA R I U S E Q U E S T R I A N S Georgina Bloomberg, Jan. 20, 1983 Nayel Nassar, Jan. 21, 1991 Darragh Kenny, Jan. 24, 1988 Paul O’Shea, Jan. 28, 1977 Amy Millar, Feb. 14, 1977

GEMINI

Apr. 20th – May 20th Animal Sign: The Bull

May 21st – June 20th

This earth sign, ruled by Venus, provides an overwhelming appreciation of beauty and charm. Taurus signs are very affectionate, but always need security, which can cause them to be possessive. They have strong opinions and they can be stubborn. Positive traits include being patient, reliable, and practical, with incredible endurance and business savvy. They crave the finer things in life. The equine world is a perfect environment for the passionate bull as he/she appreciates the history and showmanship of the sport.

Gemini is an air sign whose zodiac symbol is twins, representing the two sides of one personality. This sign balances the restless intelligence of air and the adaptability of a changing nature.

Mercury, the planet of communication, rules Gemini, and Gemini people are well known for being witty, logical, spontaneous and talkative. On the flip side, they can be nervous, restless, superficial and inconsistent. Gemini equestrians have excellent communication skills and adapt well to the pressures of competition because of their versatile nature.

FA M O U S TAU RU S E Q U E S T R I A N S

FA M O U S G E M I N I E Q U E S T R I A N S

Lorenzo de Luca, Apr. 23, 1987 Jennifer Gates, Apr. 26, 1996 Kristen Vanderveen, Apr. 26, 1989 Adrienne Sternlicht, May 9, 1993 Lauren Tisbo, May 18, 1984

Henrik von Eckermann, May 25, 1981 Robert Dover, June 7, 1956 Todd Minikus, June 11, 1962 Norman Dello Joio, June 12, 1956 Mavis Spencer, June 13, 1991

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PISCES

ARIES

Feb. 19th – Mar. 20th Animal Sign: The Fish

Mar. 21st – Apr. 19th Animal Sign: The Ram

Ruled by Neptune, this sign is the most fluid in the zodiac, and is also the most sensitive of all the signs. Piscean people harbor deep emotions, which can make them impressionable and susceptible to outside influences. To counterbalance this, they often retreat within their minds for relief. They are kind, receptive, sympathetic, instinctive and humble. However, they can be vague, secretive and have challenges dealing with the physical world.

Working with animals is the perfect vocation for them because it provides the focus they need to excel in the sport and in life.

Aries is a fire sign and is considered the first sign of the zodiac.

Aries can be adventurous, pioneering, courageous and very direct in their manner. They don’t like to be confined and can become inhibited by a daily routine, as a sedentary life is not for them. Having a ‘me first’ attitude can unfortunately go to extremes, as they can sometimes be crude, selfish and egotistical.

Aries is the most competitive sign, which bodes well for choosing a career in equestrian sport.

FA M O U S P I S C E S E Q U E S T R I A N S Lisa Jacquin, Feb. 22, 1962 George Morris, Feb. 26, 1938 Charlie Jayne, Mar. 11, 1986 Katie Monahan-Prudent, Mar. 15, 1954 Peter Lutz, Mar. 19, 1974

CANCER

FA M O U S A R I E S E Q U E S T R I A N S Margie Goldstein-Engle, Mar. 31, 1958 Joe Fargis, Apr. 2, 1948 Lauren Hough, Apr. 11, 1977 Buddy Brown, Apr. 13, 1956 Anne Kursinski, Apr. 16, 1959 Marcus Ehning, Apr. 19, 1974

LEO

June 21st – July 22nd Animal Sign: The Crab

July 23rd – Aug. 22nd Animal Sign: The Lion

Cancer is a water sign that is ruled by the Moon, which can make them impatient given the unstable nature of water.

Cancers can appear hard and insensitive on the outside, yet they are soft and vulnerable on the inside. They have an abundant imagination, are kind, sensitive, resourceful, and shrewd. It may take a while to get to know them, as they tend to live in their shells. Cancer equestrians are very clever and discerning and elevate the level of competition when they enter the ring.

Leo combines the force of fire with the powerful expression of its fixed nature. Ruled by the Sun, Leos need to feel like the center of attention and constantly seek it out. This force makes them proud, creative, graceful, determined and dramatic. Their negative traits include being patronizing, dogmatic and pompous. Leos strive to feel the true nobility of their existence. In the equine world, Leos love competing at the highest level, and they also make excellent trainers, as they can be a tremendous source of encouragement for others.

FA M O U S C A N C E R E Q U E S T R I A N S Simon Delestre, June 21, 1981 Ali Wolff, July 8, 1989 Reed Kessler, July 9, 1994 Charlotte Dujardin, July 13, 1985 Laura Graves, July 22, 1987

FA M O U S L E O E Q U E S T R I A N S Greg Best, July 23, 1964 Karen Polle, July 25, 1992 Peter Wylde, July 30, 1965 Peter Leone, Aug. 1, 1960 Quentin Judge, Aug. 6, 1986 Daniel Deusser, Aug. 13, 1981

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VIRGO

LIBRA

Aug. 23rd – Sept. 22nd

Sept. 23rd – Oct. 22nd

Virgo is a practical Earth sign, and enjoys the freedom and adaptability of its evolving nature. Ruled by Mercury,Virgos use communication on a more functional level, making them meticulous, analytical, modest and orderly. A Virgo can give you all the details. They are hardworking and need to be of service to others.Virgos who ride are driven to win and adapt easily to the complexities of equestrian disciplines.

As an air sign, Libra is active and competitive. However, Libra has been called the “iron hand in the velvet glove” because people of this sign often hide their aggressiveness. They are typically idealistic, easy-going, romantic, and have a very ‘put together’ appearance.

Their negative traits are gullibility, frivolousness and flirtatiousness.

Top equestrians of this sign are very successful because of their innate sense of communication and harmony with their horses; and they go the distance when striving to achieve their goals.

FA M O U S V I RG O E Q U E S T R I A N S Kevin Babington, Aug. 24, 1968 Ludger Beerbaum, Aug. 26, 1963 Chloe Reid, Aug. 30, 1996 Charlie Jacobs, Sept. 16, 1971

SCORPIO

FA M O U S L I B R A E Q U E S T R I A N S Melanie Smith Taylor, Sept. 23, 1949 Leslie Burr Howard, Oct. 1, 1956 Rich Fellers, Oct. 3, 1959 Lillie Keenan, Oct. 4, 1996 McLain Ward, Oct. 17, 1975 Lucy Davis, Oct. 22, 1992

SAGITTARIUS

Oct. 23rd – Nov. 21st Animal Sign: The Scorpion

Nov. 22nd – Dec. 21st Animal Sign: Half Horse/Half Man

Scorpio is ruled by two planets, Mars (planet of energy) and Pluto (the planet of intense desires). It is also a water sign, giving it an unstable, emotional nature. Scorpios have powerful feelings and a strong sense of purpose. They are very imaginative, subtle, persistent and determined. They have a great deal of personal magnetism and healing power. On the negative side, they can be resentful, stubborn, secretive and jealous. A Scorpio in the stirrups is a fierce competitor, and relies on his/her enduring nature to rise above the demands of competing.

The symbol of Sagittarius is the centaur shooting for great heights. Expansive Jupiter rules this animal sign and it shows in their love of travel and adventure. They are friendly, versatile, sincere, dependable and optimistic. However, they can be tactless, irresponsible and capricious. They enjoy their freedom, and you need to give them space. The equestrian discipline suits them, as they are half horse, and it expresses their desire to achieve at the highest level of the sport.

FA M O U S S C O R P I O E Q U E S T R I A N S Laura Chapot, Oct. 25, 1971 Cian O’Connor, Nov. 12, 1979 Laura Kraut, Nov. 14, 1965 Kevin Staut, Nov. 15, 1980 Beezie Madden, Nov. 20, 1963

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FA M O U S S AG I T TA R I U S E Q U E S T R I A N S Scott Brash, Nov. 23, 1985 Conor Swail, Nov. 26, 1971 Samuel Parot, Dec. 5, 1964 Christian Ahlmann, Dec. 17, 1974

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PA S O R O B L E S H O R S E PA R K – PA S O R O B L E S , C A

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1. $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby winners, John French and Skyhawk (John was 2nd on Center Court and 3rd on Soldier!) 2. Style of Riding Award winner John Zambrano has a Frontier Farms entourage to help celebrate 3. Stylish bay getting dressed next to the mounting block dressed in Sandhaven Farm’s stylish logo 4. Enjoying a day in the tack while strolling through the show grounds 5. Paso hang time – snacking on some greens while relaxing in the sun 6. Get your (boot) shine on 7. $5,000 1.40m Jumper winners Mandy Porter and Commisario lookin’ good with a blue on the bridle and a West Palms scrim

Photos © Grand Prix Photography (1,2,3,5,7) & Alden Corrigan Media (4,6)

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2017

Relax With Us in 2017 HUNTINGTON BEACH

Surf Classic JULY 6-9

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Summer Classic AUGUST 10-13

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A S K dr.

Q: A:

carrie

I am always excited as I schedule and sign up for a horse show. But a week out from the actual show, I get very nervous and consider canceling. I know I really want to go, but I feel so stressed that I get confused. How can I change this pattern?

I call this challenge “trip anxiety,” and it is very common.

There is a stark contrast between the fantasy of just being at the show galloping down a line in a gorgeous ring, and the actuality of packing, loading, traveling, arriving, settling in, and getting into show mode. When planning for a horse show, the normal pressure associated with travel combines with the reality of walking in the ring and competing. The psyche doesn’t differentiate between types of stress, instead it just piles them all together, and so preparing for a horse show can result in strong emotional discomfort and doubt.

control potentially stressful variables. Additionally, try to get extra sleep and eat a protein rich diet to create some energy reserves for the road. Equally important is to name the variables that are beyond your control, such as travel issues, ring assignments, lodging comfort, and the myriad of moments when you are riding. Addressing that which you can control, while honoring that which you cannot control, will help keep your level of stress manageable.

Also, address other predicted stressors with your mental practice. If you are concerned about an element on course, visualize the outcome you desire. If you imagine having extreme nerves at the back gate, practice balanced four-count breathing. Being present in the here and now is infinitely helpful; doing so will help soften your pretrip anxiety, as well as set you up for a more productive competition by upping your mental practices in advance.

There are several tools you can use to remain calm and focused in the days leading up to a show. Since action quells anxiety, make a list of things you can do in advance. Prepacking your clothes, confirming reservations, discussing the overall show plan with your trainer, and staying committed to your mental practice are all great ways to

Q: A:

I don’t sleep well in hotel rooms when I have to compete the next day, so I end up only showing locally. Are there things I can do to address this problem, so I can begin to experience other shows?

Sleep is an essential component needed for balance and focus during performance, and it is often overlooked. Sleep falls into the brain-training category; sleeping well in strange or new places requires a sleep practice. Begin creating your pre-bedtime routine at home. This can be comprised of washing your face, putting pajamas on, and doing some relaxing stretches and breathing while intentionally letting go of pressing thoughts and emotions from the day. You can end the routine by rubbing some essential oils (lavender is a great one) on the bottoms of your feet to calm the nervous system. Keep your routine simple and consistent so that it is easy to replicate when you are away.

support yourself with a nighttime playlist. If it is your sense of smell, bring an essential oil diffuser. If it is sensory related, bring your favorite pillow. When you turn off the lights, set a clear intention for your desired sleep pattern, and then focus on your breath to take you into deep sleep. There will be times that your adrenaline kicks in too early and prevents deep sleep. However, lying quietly and focusing on your relaxed breathing will still allow your body to rest, so don’t panic. Allow your unconscious to engage with your desired sleep outcome by shifting your self-talk to affirming statements, such as “I am learning to sleep well away from home.” Always keep in mind that the story you tell yourself about your challenges becomes your reality.

Begin to notice which of your senses is most sensitive when you are in a new place. If it is your hearing,

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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B E H I N D the

lens

Cara Grimshaw At eighteen years old, Cara Grimshaw left England for Canada, taking a break from the horse world she loved in order to focus on her career. After ten years of working in corporate administration in Toronto and Vancouver, Grimshaw was persuaded by her boyfriend (who also enjoyed taking photos) to attend the distinguished Langara College.

As a photographer, Grimshaw gained experience by covering a wide variety of subjects and events.

But it was when she attended the London 2012 Olympics as an editorial technician that Grimshaw rediscovered her passion for horses. This was the beginning of what would become a career as an equestrian photographer.

Today, Grimshaw travels globally, working for international horse shows, publications and brands. At shows, it’s rare to see Grimshaw in the photographer pens covering the main ring. Instead, she prefers to be behind the in-gate capturing the emotions, actions and stories of the shows.

Grimshaw covers all equestrian sports, though she admits she has a soft spot for dressage.

Grimshaw still calls Vancouver home, which is where she spends most of her time working with the local dressage community. She also spends six months a year in Europe shooting a variety of shows and private commission portrait sessions, and the occasional non-equestrian sports and editorial topics.

In her spare time, Grimshaw is enjoying being with horses again...and she is happy to report she just had her first riding lesson in over seventeen years.  caragrimshaw.com  facebook.com/photocara  @kiwinky (or Cara Grimshaw Photography)

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WHERE TO FIND

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

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

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8956 Cotter St. Lewis Center, OH 43035

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17937 SW McEwan Ave. Portland, OR 97224

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Olson’s Tack Shop

2221 NE 3rd St., Suite B Bend, OR 97701

2105 140th Ave Northeast Bellevue, WA 98005

Calasbasas Saddlery

Tack N Rider

23998 Craftsman Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302

3031 Fortune Way, Suite A9 Wellington, FL 33414

Equestrian’s Concierge LLC

The Tackeria

7600 Lakeville Highway Petaluma, CA 94954

12501 S. Shore Blvd.

Wellington, FL 33414

Equestri Lifestyle

Valencia Saddlery

31441 Avenida De La Vista San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

11355 Foothill Blvd.

Lake View Terrace, CA 91342

The best riding safaris in Africa with Gordie Church www.safarisunlimited.com info@safarisunlimited.com

C A N you

stand it ?

e d o e r M Ma

Like a fierce mare, one-piece swimsuits are all the rage. For their swimwear line, the iconic house of Missoni created a signature print suit with modern structure and a flattering silhouette.

Pair this suit with a wide-brimmed hat and a saucy pair of wedges, and feel inspired by your spicy mare spirit animal. Poolside or beach-front, you’ll have everyone saying, “WHOA NELLY!” Mare Crochet-Knit One-Piece Swimsuit, Missoni, $840

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· july/august

COMING TO OCALA, FLORIDA IN 2018

For more information contact:

(352) 629-6229 www.wec.net/ocala Rider: Amanda Steege

Hermès Arpège dressage saddle extra-deep seat

UNEE BB, JESSICA VON BREDOW-WERNDL AND THEIR HERMÈS ARPÈGE SADDLE, THREE MAKE A PAIR.