Horse & Style Magazine March/April 2017

BY AN

EQUESTRIAN: JULIE FERRIS

MAR/APR

CURATED

E VO L U T I O N

OF A

L A S T I N G PA R T N E R S H I P

Karl Cook & Eric Navet

2017

THE

B A R N E N V Y: TRIFECTA EQUINE ATHLETIC CENTER BEHIND

THE

S E A M S : O U G H TO N L I M I T E D • D E S T I N AT I O N : PA R K C I T Y, U TA H

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HOME IN VERMONT

WITH OUGHTON LIMITED In this “Behind the Seams,” Daphne Markcrow shares what inspired her to start Oughton Limited, the many special features that make her products so unique and practical, and how her home in Vermont continues to inspire her work and riding.

52

KARL COOK & ERIC NAVET: THE EVOLUTION OF A LASTING PARTNERSHIP In this cover story, Jackie McFarland and Nina Vogel caught up with Pomponio Ranch’s Karl Cook and Eric Navet to discuss their successful partnership and the strategies that keep their horses sound, happy and in the show ring.

26 FASHION FOR GOOD: SADDLE CLUB

64

33 PRODUCT

75 CURATED

Horse & Style believes the only thing better than shopping is shopping for a good cause. In this issue, Alli Addison introduces us to Saddle Club, a company with great, ethically sourced clothes that also donates 20% of its net profits to equine rescue programs.

ALERT: TOP JOC K TAC K BOXES

H&S photographer and contributor, Ashley Neuhof, had the pleasure of meeting with Joseph Moran to shoot his new product and interview him to get the details about Top Jock Tack Boxes’ line. Never has a tack box been so enviable.

DES TINATION: PARK CIT Y, UTAH

Although you can find many horses to ride in Park City, in this Destination article Sarah Appel describes the many reasons – a luxurious suite at the Waldorf Astoria, Kimball Arts Festival, mountain biking, beer tasting, and more! – it may be even better to leave your boots at home for a weekend away in Park City.

BY AN EQUESTRIAN: JULIE FERRIS In her interview with Laurie Berglie, artist Julie Ferris describes her style as “contemporary realism inspired by minimalism, realism, surrealism, and impressionism.” The result? Stunning equine portraiture that captures the essence of the subject and reflects the “horse as art itself.”

Correction: In the Jan/Feb 2017 issue, the author for "Victoria Lowell: Leaving her Mark on Horse Sport" was listed as Jennifer Wood/Jump Media. It was actually Lindsay Brock/Jump Media.

10 | FROM

THE PUBLISHER

Believe You Can

THINGS

Tina Yates

Sarah Appel

POP QUIZ

16 | BET WEEN

THE LINES

Where the Bluegrass Grows

24 | OUT

& ABOUT

30 | OUT

& ABOUT

36 | OUT

& ABOUT

38 | OUT

& ABOUT

40 | OUT

& ABOUT

Triple Copa Scappino

Winter Equestrian Festival

march /april

Palm Beach Masters

Longines Masters of Hong Kong

HITS Coachella Desert Circuit

42 | OUT

& ABOUT

HITS Ocala

44 | OUT & ABOUT

14th Annual JustWorld Gala

46 | H&S

HOME

50 | LIFE

OF BARBE

Classic English Country Home

Saying Goodbye

62 | ST YLE

PROFILES

68 | BARN

ENVY

Spring Fling

Trifecta Equine Athletic Center

72 | TREND

REPORT

Throwing Shade

82 | FEATURE

Wild Horses & Second Chances

87 | ASK

DR. CARRIE

88 | BEHIND

THE LENS

Tracy Emanuel

90 | BUSINESS

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 A DV E RT I S I N G & SA LE S advertising@horseandstylemag.com

CO P Y E D I TOR

Pam Maley INTERN

Kelsey Langsdale CO N T R I B U TO R S

Alli Addison, Jackie McFarland, Laurie Berglie, Pam Maley, Nina Vogel, Lindsay Brock/Jump Media, Ashley Neuhof, Jana Cohen Barbe, Terri Roberson Psy.D., Dr. Carrie Wicks, Ph.D. P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Kate Houlihan, Tracy Emanuel, Ashley Neuhof, Nina Vogel, Amy McCool, Kyle Barney, Justin Charles, Rodney Ray, William Delk, James Berglie, Starfish Studios, Andrew Ryback, Jeff Rogers, Danielle Demers, Brita Potenza, Power Sport Images for EEM, RBpresse, Jackie McFarland, Blair Banton, SMK Photography, Snap Fotography & Cinema, Anwar Esquivel, ESI Photography, Phelps Media Group, Sarah Appel P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA ON THE COVER: Cover story stars Karl Cook & Eric Navet at their home stable Pomponio Ranch; photo © Kate Houlihan 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

& ABOUT

92 | CAN

YOU STAND IT?

College Preparatory Invitational

AH

91 | OUT

march/april ·

2013

AW

P

Elegant Embrace

ER

14 | PRO

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

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contents

12 | 10

© 2017 HORSE & STYLE MAGAZINE

AR D WIN

5

E LE VATI N G TH E PAC IFIC NO RTHWES T

Alexis Taylor Silvernale, Owner & Head Trainer 206.619.1833 | ALERONSTABLES.COM | KIRKLAND, WA Photo © ESI Photography | EqSol Ad Design

Spring Summer 2017

EquilineAmerica.com

contributors

Emily Pollard

Jackie McFarland

Danielle Demers

Pam Maley

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

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

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

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

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

C

M

Alli Addison

Laurie Berglie

Ashley Neuhof

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.

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.

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

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

Kelsey Langsdale

Lindsay Brock

Jana Cohen Barbe

Nina Vogel

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

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

Lindsay Brock is a writer, photographer, and social media guru from Saugerties, NY. A Houghton College graduate, Lindsay studied Writing and Communications, while riding on the hunter/jumper and eventing teams. Lindsay is a full-time staffer at Jump Media, LLC. When not at a horse show, behind a camera lens or fervently Instagramming, you can find her astride her Zangersheide gelding, Justice Z.

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

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

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

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· march/april

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

MOVES AS ONE Ariat Show Collection – designed to follow your every move.

KNOW WHERE YOU STAND. ©2016 Ariat International, Inc.

More information at Ariat.com

F R O M the

publisher

“

Believe you can and you are halfway there.”

— T H E O D O R E RO O S E V E LT

Since founding Horse & Style five years ago, I have spent countless hours at horse shows, passing out magazines, connecting with readers and advertisers, and maintaining a presence at H&S’s media partner horse shows. One of the mottos I live by is to “trust the experts.”

So though I love photography and enjoy taking pictures of my kids and personal life, I always hired a professional photographer to cover horse shows. I was too intimidated to stand down in the ring assuming a photographer role and I was afraid of missing the shot I needed for the magazine.

However, necessity proved to be a tool for growth. One year ago, I was in Doha, Qatar covering the CHI Al Shaqab without a photographer.

While the horse show press office was fantastic about offering their own photos for H&S to use, I wanted some exclusive pictures of the incredible venue and riders, and decided to give shooting the classes a try. Luckily, equestrian photographer extraordinaire, Mollie Bailey from The Chronicle of the Horse, was in Doha as well and was kind enough to share some of her expert knowledge and a few choice professional tips.

Since beginning my journey as a photographer, I have found that other equestrian photographers are generous with their knowledge and very kind, but constructive, when evaluating my work. H&S’s own photographer, Ashley Neuhof, has become somewhat of a personal photography guru to me. She helps me whenever I ask for it, whether that means switching cameras so she can adjust settings while standing shoulder to shoulder at the back gate, or communicating through text messages as I send her screen shots of my camera modes.

I am always amazed by what some practice and positive energy can accomplish. Over the course of just one year, I went from being terrified to developing a true passion for taking photos at horse shows. While I still stick to my motto of trusting the experts for capturing key shots, I feel more confident standing at the ring with my camera and I just love that some of my photos are making it into the magazine. When I started believing I was capable of doing it, I suddenly was! What a wonderful life lesson.

In our cover story this issue, Nina Vogel interviewed Karl Cook and Eric Navet and learned how they believed in applying a different approach to their training, and in turn have created a successful program that benefits both their developing young horses and their grand prix mounts. She and Jacke McFarland tell their story (page 52).

Photo © Sarah Appel

I also love that we cover two women in this issue who believed they could so they did. Jessica Rose Lee wanted to create a company that would combine her two passions: fashion and rescuing slaughter bound horses. In turn, she started Saddle Club, a company with ethical products and a philanthropic mission (page 26). Daphne Markcrow created a bag to solve her own travel issue, which led to her launching Oughton Limited, a thriving business with an incredible line of bags (page 19).

Enjoy this issue and I encourage you to try something you have always wanted to do this spring. I can assure you, just believing in yourself will carry you a long way!

Cheers!

10

· march/april

10

things

by Jackie McFarland

…you might not know about…

Tina Yates

If you were on the horse show scene in California and kept an eye on Medal Finals season from 2007–2009, then you know the name Tina Dilandri. Hailing from Arizona, and training with Karen Healey, Chris Kappler, Andre Dignelli and more, she had blossomed into an equitation superstar, and had also made a name for herself in the junior jumper division. Along with multiple wins in the jumper ring, she earned top-three finishes in major equitation finals in 2007, including USEF Talent Search West (2nd), Pessoa/USEF Medal Final (3rd) and the WIHS Equitation Classic Final (2nd); was invited to ride in the 2008 George H. Morris Horsemastership Clinic in Wellington, and was 3rd in the 2009 Pessoa/USEF Medal Final.

The years following she dabbled in horses, but wasn’t certain of her path. In the summer of 2012, she met Craig Yates from Hyperion Stud when discussing the possibility of breeding her junior jumper to their stallion Imothep. Soon after that meeting, they began to date. Tina decided to meet up with Craig in Wellington in 2012, and returned full-fledged to the show jumping scene. Three years later, Craig had not only completely re-sparked Tina’s passion for competing, but they had fallen in love. In December of 2015, they tied the knot. The couple now own Highpoint Farm, LLC, a sales and training business. After a super fall season on the West Coast, the Yates are wintering in Wellington and returning to San Juan Capistrano as their base for spring, summer and fall once again this year.

In 2016, from young horses to FEI World Cup™ Jumping, Tina showed the show jumping world she was one to watch, and she continues to impress.

12

· march/april

1.

She may have nerves of steel but Tina is a girlie girl. She loves the color pink “Light pink, dark pink, especially sparkly pink. I’m not exactly sure why I’m drawn to pink but it makes me happy!”

2.

She loves Frenchies. Stella, Tina’s adorable Frenchie puppy, has her own Instagram page: @Adventures_of_Stella_Yates

3.

Last September she tied herself in a regional grand prix getting the exact same time, 35.250, on two horses, winning first and first. “It’s kind of crazy. I did ride a different track on each horse, so I didn’t at all expect to have the same time on both.”

4.

Love isn’t a strong enough word to describe how she feels about food. All food. She also loves to cook, especially Italian.

5.

A die-hard romantic, her favorite flick is ‘The Notebook.’

6.

If Tina weren’t a professional rider, she would be a neurologist.

She finds modern technology in medicine fascinating.

7.

She doesn’t have much time to read, but she did find time to devour the entire Fifty Shades trilogy.

8.

Craig was acting nervous on Christmas Eve of 2014 and Tina thought he was going to break up with her. Au contraire! Instead he pulled out a box that had a beautiful diamond ring inside and asked her to marry him!

9.

Tina can’t wait to be a mom. She’s thinking she wants four kids.

10.

Her best trait is her big heart (she’ll need one with four kids!).

Photo © Starfish Studios

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P R O pop

quiz

Hope Glynn & Lake of Stars, owned by Sabrina Hellman; photo © ESI Photography

THIS MONTH’S QUESTION:

How have the Hunter Derbies evolved over the years and what direction do you see them going? What are you excited for this year in the Derbies?

Each issue, a new question is answered by an industry professional. Have a question you want answered? Send it to sarah@horseandstylemag.com

14

· march/april

“The USHJA Hunter Derby was originally designed to be an international class for professionals to show the horse’s style and scope in a more exciting format than the typical hunter course. The jumps were bigger than what a majority of hunter riders were used to, and initially we had to find horses that suited the class. It led to a whole new ‘type’ of horse – the derby horse – brave, big step with scope and style.

Over the past five years the USHJA has expanded the Derby format to welcome all levels, including a National level and now ponies. So even pony riders can now jump natural options! Most of our clients now request that we find horses that can compete in derbies because they love watching and/or participating in them.

I think this was one of the goals of the program, and it is working!

The best derby weekend on the West Coast, in my opinion, is the Franktown Meadows Hunter Derby in Nevada. The grass field is amazing, the jumps are beautiful, and because it is a stand alone derby with no other rings or classes, it’s really special for all involved.

The USHJA International Derby Finals now offers over $200,000 in prize money and HITS provides more than a million in prize money over the year for their hunter prix and derby classes, which is fantastic for owners and riders. I sincerely hope that derbies will continue to flourish and that more and more great derby horse owners will evolve, ones that are as supportive of the Derbies as show jumper owners are of the Grand Prix classes.”

— H O P E G LY N N , top Derby competitor and trainer, Sonoma, CA IG: @hopeglynn | IG: @sonomavalleystables sonomavalleystables.com

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B E T W E E N the

lines

by Emily Pollard

Where the Bluegrass Grows L AURIE BERGLIE Kindle: $2.58 | Paperback: $9.99 | Amazon.com 220 pages

strong women characters, a swoon-worthy gentleman, and detailed descriptions that make it feel as though you are living in Kentucky with Macy for the summer.

“

And of course, there was Beau. He had definitely been unexpected, but she was so glad she met him. He was truly a breath of fresh air in comparison to some of the guys she had dated back home.

He wasn’t self-centered and pretentious. Beau was kind. He was the definition of southern charm, a gentle soul.

”

As entertaining a read as it is, one of the most enjoyable parts about reading Where the Bluegrass Grows is knowing it is the first novel of regular Horse & Style contributor, Laurie Berglie. Writing a novel is an unbelievable undertaking, both in terms of time, organization and effort, and Berglie did so while working a full time job, managing her boutique barn, and caring for her family.

She took a moment to share a bit about how she managed the process, her inspirations, and what is next for her writing career.

Photo © James Berglie

Horse & Style: What did your writing process entail?

For those of us who had to date through the decade of our twenties before finding love, relating to Molly Sorrenson in Laurie Berglie’s first novel, Where the Bluegrass Grows, is a breeze...

After one too many bad dates, Molly decides she needs a break from her life in Maryland, and heads south to Kentucky to spend the summer with her best friend, Macy. Macy’s home and companionship, and the relaxed Kentucky atmosphere, provide the perfect place for Molly to work on an outline for her next novel and to spend some time getting “back to basics.”

While Molly intended to keep the focus on herself by passing her time with the horses at the barn, a chance encounter with Beau, Macy’s boss, a handsome and single equine veterinarian, starts a summer romance that makes her time in Kentucky as much about falling in love as it is about the horses. But as hard as Beau falls for Molly, he too carries baggage from his previous relationships, and its re-emergence at the end of the summer threatens his potentially wonderful future with Molly.

Where the Bluegrass Grows is a light, fun read, with all the makings of a good binge-reading weekend book: romantic encounters,

16

· march/april

Laurie Berglie: I worked on this book on and off for five years! Between my “real” job in marketing, the horses, farm renovations – you name it – I just didn’t have too much time to devote to writing. At this point, I don’t remember where I got the idea for this particular novel. I’m always working on something literary, so I think I just sat down one day and started writing this story – and it stuck. As I continued, I realized I really liked the characters, especially Molly, Macy, and Beau, so I wanted to continue writing and see where they ended up.

For this book, I didn’t make an outline. As I was writing, I had no idea where the plot was going to go or how it was going to end.

Looking back, I like that the story developed organically, and I feel that the scenes unfolded naturally. However, for the current book I’m working on, I did create a very basic outline. It’s helping me stay on track a bit more, so I’m hoping I can finish it in less than five years!

H&S: What was your inspiration for this novel?

LB: A lot of this story is pretty biographical. Molly, the main character, and Macy, her best friend, both represent me and paths I did or did not follow in real life. Molly is a full-time author of fiction, and I hope that one day I can focus completely on my

I think all the books I read influence my writing style in some way, and I do foresee my style changing and adapting with each story and set of characters. Some of my favorite equestrian works are Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards, Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand, The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans, Horse People

by Michael Korda, and Racing My Father by Patrick Smithwick.

H&S: What is the next step planned for your writing career?

LB: I am currently working on a semi-sequel to Where the Bluegrass Grows. This one is Macy’s story, but of course Molly makes many appearances. I’m about three-quarters of the way through, so I’m planning on publishing it this year. Additionally, I’m finalizing a short story collection that I’m hoping to publish this year as well. I also have my equestrian lifestyle blog, “Maryland Equestrian,” and it’s such a fun, creative outlet for me. I started it in 2011 and haven’t looked back. And, of course, there’s my writing for Horse & Style!

H&S: What advice would you give to someone hoping to author a novel one day?

LB: Do whatever works for you. If you need to make an outline before you write, do it. If you prefer to sit down and just wing it, that’s fine too! There is no right or wrong way to write. Some people like to get up early and write before the day starts and they get too busy elsewhere. I, however, am a night owl, so I do my best writing after 9 pm! Just find your rhythm with your words, and it will come!

PHOTO: KRISTIN LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

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As far as the locations, I am a Marylander, born and raised.

I love the change of seasons, the landscape, and the seafood!

Monkton, Molly’s home, is a rural equestrian community one zip code east of where I live. I spent a lot of time riding at various barns in the area, so it’s just a very special place. That said, I adore Kentucky. I have visited the Lexington area three times now, and every time I do, I feel this tremendous pull. I always tell people that the only place I might leave Maryland for, is Kentucky. A lot of the places, farms, restaurants, etc. I wrote about in both states are real, so pay them a visit!

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writing as well. Macy is a horse vet, which is a career I thought seriously about for years and years. Obviously, that’s a route I didn’t take, but I still often wonder “what if.”

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Portrait of Laurie Berglie, author of Where the Bluegrass Grows; photo © James Berglie

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B E H I N D the

seams

story by Lindsay Brock/Jump Media photos by Andrew Ryback

At Home in Vermont with

Oughton Limited

Portrait of Oughton Limited founder Daphne Markcrow

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bout a decade ago, Daphne Markcrow was shipping two horses from her Vermont farm to a nearby facility for lessons. After what seemed like endless trips from the barn to the trailer and back again, Markcrow knew there had to be a better way to transport her gear for two horses quickly and efficiently. As a result, she developed a bag made of waxed canvas with halter squares for detailing and loaded it up for a one-trip-only transition to the barn aisle. The piece mirrored the functionality of a tack trunk, but was light, stylish, and mobile.

“I couldn’t imagine life without it now,” said Markcrow. “After that first bag, I made a couple more for myself and then some for my friends. Pretty soon, I was making ten at a time.”

TH E BI RT H O F A BAG B US I N E S S While horses may have inspired Markcrow’s vision for practical, durable yet stylish bags, her concept of producing products for a target market plus her MBA (Master of Business Administration) from Duke University helped the bags evolve into a business.

“I began seeing ways to improve the lives of equestrians through Oughton Limited,” said Markcrow.

Inspired to fulfill the needs of highly mobile competitive equestrians using the travel style of her family as a muse, Markcrow quickly began to see the lines of barn functionality and mainstream fashion blend together. Creating a capsule collection that debuted at the Lake Placid Horse Show in 2007, Markcrow still recalls the first few bags she sold. Surprisingly, they were not all purchased by riders.

“A family came to see me at Lake Placid and bought two tack trunk bags for their daughter’s horses, but their son was also there and was getting ready to go to college,” said Markcrow. “The bag ended up being a perfect alternative to keeping a trunk at the foot of the bed in his dorm room. Another group of men bought bags to stow their gear for a hunting trip, and Patty [Scialfa] even bought one for Bruce [Springsteen] as a touring bag. Those first few sales were very formative for me.”

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Waxed Canvas Barn Tote and Rolling Duffle

Realizing the potential her bags possessed, her goals for Oughton Limited expanded.

While she estimates that 90% of Oughton Limited buyers have some connection to the equine industry, they use the pieces to bring their favorite slices of equestrian style to everyday life. That sentiment is one that Markcrow can relate to.

“I travel, I am a mom, I work, and I am a horse person. Those roles lead me to produce what I need,” she said. “Many equestrians also lead multi-faceted lives, going from barn to work, country to city, and traveling the world.”

While traveling in England, Markcrow recalls being mesmerized by the colorful surcingles she spotted on Thoroughbreds at a race track. (A strap of leather or nylon material used around the horse’s girth area to help stabilize the saddle and jockey.) The images danced in her mind during the plane ride home, where she began designing the Course and Paddock Collections, which incorporate the look and purpose of a surcingle while adding a splash of classic color.

City Lux M with dark blue leather flap and Paddock CrossBody x Clutch in turquoise

CLASSIC EQUINE I N S P I R AT I O N F O R ANY SEASON Markcrow’s main pillar of inspiration is functionality, but she also maintains the classic aesthetic of the equestrian lifestyle.

The line’s color palette and materials, with actual halter hardware as the main motif, resonate with a sporting world that is steeped in tradition and history. The style also transcends the lines of riding disciplines, and appeals to those with an attraction to the horse lifestyle.

“Inspired by the heritage, materials, and classic aesthetics of the equestrian world, Oughton bags are designed and made for a lifetime, or even two,” she said. “The consumer world operates with trends, flash, and throw-away fashion. With more and more bling, I love seeing people taking a step back from the edge and staying classic. Everything I make is meant to stay in the line for a while; there are no trends or seasonality.”

Daphne Markrow carries the City Lux M with brown buffalo flap

Oughton Limited is a reflection of Markcrow’s personal style blended with notes of the equestrian lifestyle, but it also gives a nod to her love of heritage. With an infatuation for family heirlooms of all shapes and sizes, Markcrow can often be

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Rolling Duffle, Carteret Satchel, and Waxed Canvas Barn Tote (on floor)

It's all in the details: Rolling Duffle

The idyllic Markcrow family farm house in Vermont

A family home amongst Vermont's green mountains

spotted wearing one of her grandfather’s U.S. Navy jackets to do late-night barn checks, or weaving pieces from her family’s different ports of call into the aesthetic of her self-designed Manchester home. That mindset crosses over into her business through timeless quality.

“If you make the very best product, you can sell it no matter what,” said Markcrow.

“I never design my product with a spreadsheet. I don’t work cost backwards, I produce forward. When I know the demand is there, I design products to the highest standards of production quality possible and figure out the margins afterwards. Not skimping on quality for profit has served me well so far.”

AT H O M E I N V E R M O N T. . .

AND FLORIDA Markcrow hails from North Carolina, where she grew up on a Thoroughbred farm. Her love for horses came from her

mother and like many of us, wherever she went, horses would follow. She moved north after marrying her husband, Craig, a native of Vermont, to raise their two children: Anna and Henry, now eight and six years old.

Living in a newly-built farmhouse in the pastoral rolling hills of Manchester, just minutes from the Vermont Summer Festival showgrounds, local inspiration and Markcrow’s personal affinity for all things equine continue to be the driving force behind Oughton Limited’s bags and accessories.

“I stopped riding during college but when we came to Vermont, I had a six-week horse show in my backyard and, before I knew it, I had a barn full of horses.”

As for her favorite Oughton Limited piece, Markcrow said, “The roller duffle is my favorite bag. It’s the perfect shape to

commute to Florida, to horse shows in the winter. I am particularly happy with how it performs.”

Although she travels for the business, Markcrow cherishes the six weeks in the summer when she can not only compete with her own horses, but also be surrounded by horse show friends and fellow equestrians.

“I am so lucky that I have such a great horse show so close,” said Markcrow. “It is wonderful to have these worlds come together for six weeks each summer. Each year, I look forward to sharing my business, the town I love, and our home with the horse show community.”

oughtonlimited.com FB: facebook.com/oughtonlimited IG:@ oughtonlimited march/april ·

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T R I P L E C O PA S C A P P I N O – G U A D A L A J A R A C O U N T R Y C L U B – G UA DA L A JA R A , JA L I S CO , M E X I CO

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1. Team Mexico rallied some national spirit on the opening day of the FEI Children’s International Classics Final. As the host country they provided all the horses for the competition 2. Fans and sponsors enjoyed the luxurious seating, dining and viewing at the Guadalajara Country Club 3. Rodrigo Medina Vazquez and BIEC’s stallion Lord Power jumped clear and quick to clinch a win 4. Francisco Pasquel tipped his hat to the loud and loyal crowd as he led the victory gallop of the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Guadalajara 5. Tanimara Macari & Tanimara Carrillo are all smiles at the Triple Copa Scappino in gorgeous Guadalajara 6. A successful Saturday of show jumping ended with a picturesque dusk by the Longines-sponsored in-gate 7. FEI Children’s International Classics Final Silver medalist Lorenzo Mills faces a playful post-competition toss in the Guadalajara Country Club pool from friends and teammates

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Photos © Anwar Esquivel, Jackie McFarland/EqSol (6)

of

From sand traps to

saddles!

Getting here is a victory. Both an adventure and a reward. And the most thrilling part of the ride of your life will begin at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club. Amid rolling hills and idyllic landscapes, it epitomizes championship sport, leisure and the ultimate in luxury living. With a range of exquisite residential opportunities from townhomes to equestrian estates.

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feature

by Alli Addison

photography by Kyle Barney, Justin Charles, & Rodney Ray styling by Jessica Rose Lee

WELCOME TO THE CLUB

Fashion for Good: Saddle Club

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Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, California sits a girl with a passion for good deeds, beautiful horses and great clothes. A girl who begged her parents for a pony at the age of nine, received said pony and was instantly thrust into a world revolving around the animals she loves so much. A girl whose upbringing and schooling led her to a career in luxury fashion marketing and later equine rescue programs.

So what is a girl to do with such a path in life? She creates a club unlike any other.

F

or nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, California sits Jessica Rose Lee, creator and founder of Saddle Club – a California lifestyle brand inspired by the modern equestrian, tailored for the fashion culture of today, and benefiting equine rescue programs of America. “The evolution of Saddle Club has been completely organic,” explains Lee. What began as a riding lesson program to introduce equestrian lifestyle to popular culture has grown into so much more.

Lee was so moved by the hard work and dedication it takes to rescue and rehabilitate the horses that she knew she wanted to contribute more than just her time.

PA I R I N G H E R PA S S I O N S F O R H O R S E S A N D FA S H I O N After Lee graduated from San Diego State University and began working in the fashion industry, she felt a strong urge to blend her professional career with her love of horses. So she carried on immersing herself in the horse world, taking positions as an assistant rider at private training stables for grand prix show jumping horses at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, and organizing events on the side at local race tracks. Her path crossed with many animals over the years and she was happy that she was able to maintain her connection to equestrian culture. These animals would come and go, as would Lee. And over the years she began to look back and wonder about all those horses, where they were and what they were doing. She continued to question and continued to research. Did you know that 85% of first-time horse owners get rid of their horses within five years, and a startling number of horses are shipped abroad each year for human consumption, with the majority of these animals being healthy, 7-10 years of age and

in good condition? For Lee, the calling to volunteer began to beckon.

RED BUCKET EQUINE RESCUE “It really all began when I started to volunteer for Red Bucket Equine Rescue in Southern California in 2015,” says Lee. A 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation founded in 2009 by Susan Pierce, Red Bucket is committed to saving slaughter-bound, abused, abandoned and neglected horses. Red Bucket Equine Rescue has saved almost 400 horses to date, but rescue is really only the beginning. Lee soon came to understand that there is a level of healing, training, and ‘preparation for their forever home’ that is essential for these animals..

Lee was so moved by the hard work and dedication it takes to rescue and rehabilitate the horses that she knew she wanted to contribute more than just her time. From this, Saddle Club was born. “I knew my personal time and efforts were making a difference for these animals, but I felt the urge to do more. I want to spread awareness and foster a passion for horses in others.

Working in Southern California I come across so many wonderful people that express an interest in horses, and light up every time they are around these amazing animals,” says Lee. As with caring for any animal, there comes a great deal of commitment and responsibility, and sometimes this rings even truer with horses. Her search for additional rescue programs continued. In addition to Red Bucket Equine Rescue, Saddle Club came to partner with Humanity for Horses, another 501(c)3 foundation located in Mount Shasta, California. Humanity for Horses has done an incredible job, rescuing over 500 horses to date and providing these animals with a loving sanctuary for the rest of their days.

EXTREME NEGLECT TO MOVIE S TAR “The connection that happens with horses through these organizations is deeply rewarding and gratifying,” says Lee. And of course, there is always that one horse – rescue or not – that seems to find a way to impact you unlike any other.

For Lee, that horse was a thoroughbred mare named Delilah – the horse that stole her heart. “She was one of the original rescue missions Red Bucket carried out with volunteers, rescuing over 30 thoroughbreds abandoned after a breeding

scandal in the racehorse industry.” Delilah had come into the program suffering from extreme neglect, but the day Lee met her, she was a beautiful, healthy horse. “I was working as a volunteer rider at Red Bucket, and we bonded from the first day she tried to buck me off!” laughs Lee. The trainers at Red Bucket had told Lee that it had been over a month since the horse had been ridden, but when she got on, Lee could feel her thoroughbred spirit.

“Delilah was willing to work and had the smoothest gaits. She had a sensitive mouth and would overreact when it came to leg cues. And she loved to gallop! I worked with her every week and she became very soft in the hand and had perfect transitions,” she says. Later that year (2015), Delilah performed as an “extra” in the movie ‘Emma’s Chance’ – filmed at Red Bucket Rescue in Chino Hills, Ca. In 2016, Delilah was adopted out to her forever home. “Delilah is the quintessential Red Bucket success story,” says Lee. AN INCREDIBLE, ETHICAL PRODUCT LINE Using her connections, experience and undeniable fashion wit (she cut her teeth working in sales and marketing at the one and only Ralph Lauren), Lee came up with the concept to create capsule collections using American-made, sustainablyproduced, and vintage-sourced, one-ofa-kind reconstructed goods, and donating 20% of net profits to the rescue programs she holds so close to her heart.

Saddle Club released its first collection late last year, available exclusively through the shopsaddleclub.com website, and at special events. The collection includes the American Legends Bandana, The Last Unicorn Tee, the War Horse Jacket and the Lonesome Dove Saddle Pack, prices ranging from $48-$298.

The American Legends Bandana, made from repurposed vintage bandanas, was the first item Lee created for Saddle Club.

“I love the way a bandana completes the equestrian look,” she says. “It can be so versatile; from the hair, to the neck, to the handbag. A classic Americana accessory, which we had so much fun sourcing throughout the United States.” Each bandana is completely unique, and (much like the horses) each has its own story.

The War Horse Jacket is made from vintage American military jackets sourced in California, New York, Arizona, Oregon, march/april ·

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and New Mexico. Each is repurposed with unique patches and custom details, and is entirely one-of-a-kind. The history of this great country was literally built on the back of a horse. As Lee was sourcing the bandanas that would become the American Legends Bandana, she continued to come across amazing and storied military jackets.

“I thought it would be cool to honor our American heritage and instill it in the heart of Saddle Club; the style is entirely classic and perfect for the streets and the stables,” says Lee. The Last Unicorn Tee is a Saddle Club original design, made in Downtown Los Angeles, using ethically-produced cotton textile. A classic and sweet “Saddle Club” custom embroidery on the front chest gives this piece a vintage members-only appeal.

The most recent addition to the Saddle Club collection, and soon to be released, is the classic and rustic Lonesome Dove Saddle Pack satchel, made in the heart of Beverly Hills, California by an expert leather craftsman in business on Brighton Way for over 30 years.

LOOK FOR LEE ON THE SHOW CIRCUIT As Saddle Club continues to evolve and expand its collections, one might find its creator spearheading the club’s success, continuing her work in equine rescue, or tending to her own new project. “This past year, I was fortunate to be contacted about an American Holsteiner mare in need of a home. She had shown as a jumper early in her career, but had been off for the last five years. The owners were looking for a buyer, and were offering an option for a feed lease to the right barn. My trainer and I loaded up the truck and trailer and headed to Southern California. It truly was love at first sight; I couldn’t believe my luck. She is big and beautiful and makes for a perfect model for Saddle Club marketing images. We trained all summer and built up trust between us, taking evening rides through the trails of Griffith Park. We competed at the year-end Gold Coast show and took home a red ribbon, which makes us very excited for the 2017 show year to come!”

MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Looking to get involved and make an impact? “Volunteering is the absolute best way to get involved and make a difference for these animals. Start with what is close to you,” says Lee. Research local

rescue organizations and inquire about volunteering, for none of the hundreds of rescues across the nation would be possible without the help of volunteers.

Saddle Club loves to hear stories of volunteer work, and hopes to continue to inspire people that want to work with horses. #RideWithSaddleClub is an original Saddle Club hashtag which is a great place to feature people performing volunteer work, or with their Saddle Club merchandise. So use the social platforms available to you to chronicle your efforts and spread the word to others.

O N WA R D A N D T R E N D I N G U P WA R D And for the club? The future is bright.

‘We will continue to pursue collaborations with like-minded fashion brands and rescue organizations. From limited edition merchandise to special fundraising events, our mission will always be to raise awareness for these rescue organizations and benefit them in unique ways.” The Saddle Club will continue to extend beyond the product and the proceeds, and have a social component. True to their equestrian spirit, Saddle Club will continue to coordinate group rides as a social meet-up and ‘day at the stables’ events at barns throughout California, further blending popular culture with equestrian culture. And coming this year, Saddle Club Diaries will be introduced as a platform to showcase these social events.

Saddle Club is more than just a fashion brand and social group – it is a movement for horse-lovers around the globe. Saddle Club offers a chance to get involved, to connect with others who share a similar passion for healing our equine friends in need, to educate and raise awareness for equine rescues, and to look damn good while doing it. As the dream grows, the bigger the difference we can all make. Join in, and ride with Saddle Club.

Learn more by visiting shopsaddleclub.com and get connected via @shopsaddleclub Red Bucket Equine Rescue: redbucketrescue.org Humanity for Horses: humanityforhorses.org march/april ·

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$75,000 BATTLE OF THE SEXES AND MORE FROM THE WINTER EQUES TRIAN FES TIVAL – WELLINGTON , FL

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1. Jessica Springsteen and Tiger Lily 2. Champagne showers between the ladies and men at the end of the Battle of the Sexes 3. Pedro Muylaert and Prince Royal Z WEF CSI 3* 4. Jessica Mendoza of Great Britain in her first WEF under the lights appearance 5. Really bouncy unicorn race 6. The ladies team walks the course (and of course they won!)

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Photos © Ashley Neuhof

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7. Andrew Kocher flying to the finish for the men 8. A very good sport of a groom, go ladies! 9. Eric Lamaze and Fine Lady 5, winners of the adequan CSI 3* 10. Abigail Mcardle for the ladies 11. Mavis Spencer for the ladies

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Spring in New York never looked so good.

Don’t miss what everyone is talking about! the competition • the grounds • the prize money

MAY

9-14 csi2*

USEF Jumper Rating 5 USEF Premier Hunters

$130,000 Empire State Grand Prix presented by The Kincade Group (May 21)

$50,000 Old Salem Farm Grand Prix

presented by The Kincade Group (May 14)

$35,000 NY Welcome Stake $35,000 Welcome Stake of North Salem

MAY

$35,000 Old Salem Farm Jumper Classic

16-21 csi3*

USEF Jumper Rating 6

$35,000 Old Salem Farm Speed Derby $15,000 Under 25 Grand Prix $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

USEF Premier Hunters

tickets, prizelist, sponsorships, vip table reservations, & event details at oldsalemfarm.net

PRODUCT

alert

story & photos by Ashley Neuhof

Top Jock TAC K BOXES How many of us can go to our significant other with a horse related request, trust that request will be granted, and have that request end up launching a successful business? My guess is probably not many of us. However, when Anna Moran asked her husband Joseph Moran to design and build her a tack trunk that was durable, weatherproof and beautiful, that is exactly how the story unfolded. Anna’s custom tack box became the blueprint for Top Jock Tack Boxes – one of the equestrian world’s hottest products and a must-have stable essential.

DOING HIS HOMEWORK Joseph is also an equestrian; he rode while growing up in Ireland, and he studied Equine Science at the University of Limerick. After college, he began working for his family in the construction sector. So when Anna asked him to build her a tack box, the request was the perfect combination of his two worlds – horses and construction.

Joseph began by researching the existing tack trunks on the market and immediately something stood out to him: the majority of the tack boxes he found were either made of all metal or all wood. An all metal box was too loud when rolled down a barn aisle, but an all wood box was not durable enough to withstand the on-the-move lifestyle of a competition barn.

To fix both issues, Joseph combined the materials and made the outside of the box 90% metal for durability and the inside 90% wood for warmth, strength and sound absorption. With this combination, Joseph made Anna’s tack trunk stronger than the others on the market. march/april ·

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Portrait of Joseph Moran, Founder of Top Jock Tack Boxes; photo © Phelps Media Group

F R O M A H O B BY TO A C O M PA N Y When Top Jock Tack Boxes first began in 2012, Joseph was working full-time in construction and considered building the boxes a hobby. But after posting some images of his boxes online, he started collecting a fan club, including Irish showjumper Damien Dixon.

Joseph built a few different boxes of varying sizes for Dixon, and as they traveled the competition circuit with him, the word about Top Jock Tack Boxes began to spread. Top Jock Tack Boxes soon became Joseph’s full time focus and his clientele now includes McLain Ward, Shane Sweetnam, Mckayla Langmeier and Schuyler Riley.

C U S TO M B U I LT B OX E S When purchasing a Top Jock Tack Box, quality of craftsmanship is always a top draw. But another reason they have become so popular is the customization options. Joseph likes to say “Any size, any color and any layout is possible. When ordering a Top Jock Tack box, customers are limited only by their imagination.”

The imaginations of his clientele led Joseph to create a long list of equestrian items including horizontal trunks, vertical lockers, grooming boxes and saddle racks.

The customization doesn’t end at the structural level, however.

All tack boxes are finished with a solid oak engraved panel where

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customers can add detailing such as their country’s flag, website, stable name or rider details. On the Gold Edition, Top Jock Tack Boxes can also add panels that display logos and high-definition photos, allowing for clear branding. But what if a client experiences a change? No problem. Joseph can switch out the images to change the look of the box at any time.

A new customization option that Top Jock Tack Boxes is excited about offering its clients is the choice of using maintenance-free PVC wood-grain lumber instead of the traditional oak. This new, innovative material that Joe discovered for his products looks exactly like wood and is available in a variety of colors, making the boxes lighter and easier to move. Top Jock Tack Boxes can build to suit, and Joseph is continually finding new ways to do that better.

THE BREAD AND BUTTER BOX One of Top Jock Tack Boxes’ best selling items is the Silver Edition Vertical Box. This is one of Joseph’s standard-sized models that can be built in a variety of colors and with differing trim options. The standard bells and whistles include a metal exterior coated with leather grain PVC, stainless steel hardware, seven bridle hangers, two saddle racks, U-bolt on the back for securing at shows and ten inch “flat-free” wheels for wheeling it over any type of terrain. In addition,

a few of the custom extra options include upholstered interior and LED lighting. It is no wonder this box is such a great seller!

BEYOND THE EQUES TRIAN While the equestrian world dominates most of the demand for Top Jock Tack Boxes, Joseph has also built boxes for jewelry, fashion designers and even a specially designed one for his business partner, Donal O. Sullivan of Navillus Construction in New York City. As the brand grows, Joseph and Top Jock Tack Boxes hope to expand their customized products to areas such as the music and entertainment industry. However, regardless of Top Jock Tack Boxes’ growth, maintaining their bespoke vision and high quality craftsmanship are top priorities for Joseph and his team.

Joseph certainly deserves the credit for Top Jock Tack Boxes’ excellent construction, durable nature and weatherproofing. And the whole team deserves credit for helping to craft Top Jock’s incredible customization and branding options. However, anyone lucky enough to own a Top Jock Tack Box should send a big thank you to Anna, who started it all with a simple request.

topjocktackboxes.com

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PALM BEAC H MASTERS – DEERIDGE FARMS, WELLINGTON , FLORIDA

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1. Horse & Style’s Jan/Feb issue added a little extra style to the VIP tables 2. Charlie Jacobs and Cassinja S clearing the CMJ Sporthorse jump 3. The Taylor Harris Club partnered with the Palm Beach Masters to provide an amazing VIP experience that included two floors of ringside dining, deluxe food and beverages, and an art gallery 4. Captain Canada, Ian Millar, on Dixson shared a 1st place win with Beezie Madden in the $35,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Qualifier CSI3* on Friday 5. One of many delectable options in the VIP was pancakes on the griddle with fresh strawberries 6. Mavis Spencer gives Dubai a well-deserved pat after a solid finish in the challenging qualifying round 7. Daniel Coyle shows his incredible form as he flies over an oxer

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Photos © Ashley Neuhof

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8. Jessica Springsteen’s gorgeous mount Cynar VA, owned by Stone Hill Farm 9. Adrienne Sternlicht and her new, talented young mare Cristalline soar over the Longines vertical. Cristalline turned heads and attracted international attention at just 8 years old with rider Chris Chugg (AUS) at the 2016 World Cup™ Finals

3000 Loma Vista Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89120 $2,299,000 • 7 Beds 11 Baths • 11,600 Sq Ft

Prestigious equestrian estate located in the luxurious gate guarded Sierra Vista Ranchos Community. This expansive 11,600 square foot property is nestled amongst 64,033 square feet of breathtaking gardens and features a completely restored historic guest house, originally built in 1937. Members of the Sierra Vista Ranchos Equestrian Community enjoy access to community barns, stables, riding paths, and arenas.

Learn More At 3000LomaVista.com

www.huntingtonandellis.com • 702.279.9893

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LONGINES MASTERS OF HONG KONG – HONG KONG, C HINA

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1. Christian Ahlmann and Caribis Z, winners of Sunday’s Longines Grand Prix 2. Daniel Deusser and Happiness van T Paradijs, winners of Saturday’s Longines Speed Challenge 3. Olivier Philippaerts and H&M Challenge vd Begijnakker Z, winners of Sunday’s Hong Kong Tatler Trophy 4. Visitors enjoyed a live DJ session by Jeremix in the Prestige Village after the competition came to a close each evening​​ 5. Martin Fuchs and Clooney, winners of Friday’s Hong Kong Jockey Club Trophy 6. Prestige Village 7. Santi Serra and one of his gorgeous horses perform in the main arena as part of the Longines Masters of Hong Kong’s daily entertainment

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Photos © Power Sport Images for EEM

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

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HITS COAC HELL A DESERT CIRCUIT – THERMAL, CA

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1. Cupilor and Michelle Parker take home the blue ribbon in the $75,000 Go Rentals Grand Prix 2. Soldier and John French on their way to a $5,000 Devoucoux Hunter Prix win 3. Rocky W and Kaitlin Campbell win the $25,000 SmartPak Open Prix 4. Enjoying the southern California sunshine 5. The new ringside bar at HITS Desert Horse Park 6. Cecily Hayes and Overdressed stand ringside while watching the rest of their class 7. Lee Flick and John Bragg finishing up Day One at HITS Coachella

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Photos © ESI Photography

FURNITURE | INTERIOR DESIGN | GIFTS WWW.JULIEBROWNINGBOVA.COM

(800) 522-2985

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HITS OC AL A WINTER CIRCUIT – OC AL A , FL

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1. $5,000 Johnson Horse Transport Open Welcome – 1.40m winners Avon and Mattias Tromp 2. Z and Erin Brody on their way to a $1,500 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix win 3. Hindsight and Lisa Goldman win the $50,000 Equioxx Grand Prix 4. H&S is loving this jacket and it's “Pop of Plum” – the topic of H&S's Jan/Feb Trend Report! 5. A quarter sheet and jacket were the only winter clothes needed for a hack in the beautiful Florida weather 6. Working hard in the HITS Ocala Education Station 7. Ocala’s own Hayley Waters and Uppie de Lis win the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix

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Photos © ESI Photography, HITS Staff (6)

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T H E 14 T H A N N U A L J U S T W O R L D G A L A , presented by the CP Palm Beach Masters and Caryl Philips and Frank Zeiss • justworldinternational.org

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1. The JustWorld Gala brought guests together to celebrate and raise funds to support children in Cambodia, Guatemala, and Honduras.

JustWorld’s founder, Jessica Newman, presented the Andres Rodriguez Professional Ambassador Award to Olympic Champion Laura Kraut 2. Johnny Rez, who recently competed on “The Voice,” played live music and danced with the crowd during the gala. Rez also shared details about his remarkable trip to Guatemala with JustWorld 3. Students from a JustWorld partner project, the school Los Patojos in Guatemala, performed at the Gala. The school benefits more than 300 students’ lives 4. Founder and Director of Los Patojos and Top 10 CNN Hero, Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes, joined Steven Wilde on stage to share stories about the successes of the school 5. The Catering Sponsor, Bolay, delighted guests with an incredible menu. Bolay was one of the many sponsors that make JustWorld's largest fundraiser a success. The donations allow JustWorld to continue helping children thrive through its support of education, health and cultural development programs

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Photos © Snap Fotography & Cinema (1), Blair Blanton Studios (2,3), SMK Photography (4,5)

HIGHPOINT FARM

Photos by Anwar Esquivel, Ashley Neuhof and Amy McCool ~ EQSOL AD DESIGN

H&S

home

by Laurie Berglie photos by James Berglie

Classic English Country Home In the late 1930s, the sport of foxhunting lured the Voss family south from Long Island to Monkton, a rural community in northern Maryland. Brothers Franklin and Edward, along with Edward’s wife, Elsa, fell in love with the area and decided to make their stay permanent.

Edward and Elsa purchased Atlanta Hall from the Durant family and today, the farm is still in the Voss family, and Atlanta Hall is home to some of the area’s most prominent steeplechasers and flat racers.

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THE SPORTING LIFE If the Voss name sounds familiar, it’s because Franklin Voss is still considered one of the most notable equestrian and sporting art artists of all time. He has captured some of the greatest racers on his canvases: Man O’ War, Sir Barton, Seabiscuit, Whirlaway, and Citation.

Edward, while not as well-known as his brother, painted in the watercolor medium, and his wife, Elsa, was a talented bronze sculptor.

Today, Atlanta Hall is occupied by Mimi Voss, whose late husband, Thomas, was Edward’s grandson. Mimi graciously opened her home for this feature, and I was astounded by the history, art, and décor that resided within. Daughter Elizabeth Voss Murray, and son Sam Voss, were also on hand for the interview to share memories of their lives on this storied farm.

When the Vosses arrived in Maryland from New York in the 30s, they lived in the converted barn studio while the main house was renovated and expanded. Mimi notes that, with the exception of a kitchen renovation, she and her late-husband have left the house completely as it was when they moved in after Elsa’s death thirty-five years ago. She felt it important to leave the home as their relatives had intended.

My first impressions of Atlanta Hall: classic, traditional, stately, idyllic. The exterior is brick, painted a muted yellow with

black accents, shutters, and trim. It is reminiscent of an English manor house, with each addition well-built and thoughtfully done. Elizabeth says, “It’s a farmhouse, warm and cozy. Between us, the children, and dogs, there are a lot of people in and out, and most of the time, we’re wearing riding or muck boots.”

Atlanta Hall is a working farm of three hundred acres, home to more than fifty horses: foxhunters, broodmares, retirees, and steeplechasers in training.

ART AROUND EVERY CORNER The first room on our tour is the dining room, and with its hunter green walls and dark oak and cherry furniture, the room is warm and romantic. “When we have dinner parties, it is all by candlelight so the room is dark and serene. It’s a spectacular dining experience,” says Mimi. Hanging above the fireplace is an original Franklin Voss, entitled Elsa Voss. This portrait Franklin painted of his sister-in-law is flanked on the left by an original Sir Alfred J. Munnings, Exmoor Farm Horse in Show Dress. A hutch to the right of the fireplace displays some family heirlooms, racing trophies, and silver julep cups.

Out of the dining room and to the right is the main entrance hall that is filled virtually from floor to ceiling with art. Most are original Vosses, both Franklin and Edward, and my personal favorite of Edward’s, The Harford Fox, hangs front and center at the base of

(L–R): Sam, Elizabeth and Mimi Voss

the stairwell. This is a delightful image of a happy fox scampering across a neighbor’s farm in Harford County, Maryland.

Next, Mimi leads me into her favorite room in the house, which she calls, “The Green Room,” and it is here that most of Elsa’s bronzes reside. Centered on a desk and surrounded by family photos is one of Elsa’s most distinct pieces, a large bronze of a foal called Lying Down Colt. Dominating the near side of the room above the couch is The Elkridge-Harford Hunt Crossing Atlanta Hall Meadow, a large oil on canvas painted by Franklin in 1942. It expertly showcases the hunt riding across the fields of the Voss farm on a brilliant autumn day. Fittingly, Elizabeth is now one of three Masters of Foxhounds for the Elkridge-Harford Hunt.

Even though the walls are full of priceless pieces, this room feels comfortable. It’s easy to imagine the family gathering for a casual get-together. “I love this room, which I also sometimes call ‘The Irish Room,’ because I think it has a very Irish country flair.

Portraits of some of my favorite dogs and horses are in this room,” mentions Mimi. It is in this room that son Sam and daughter Elizabeth gather with their mother for a photo along with black lab, Tebb, and eight month old Norwich terrier, Roo, who is lively and adorable as all puppies should be.

It is here that I ask Sam and Elizabeth what it was like to grow up in such an historic home surrounded by beautiful, original artwork.

They both sheepishly grin at each other and Elizabeth admits, “It was great, but to be honest, as kids we cared more about the outside than the inside. We spent our days out riding horses, fishing, or swimming in the stream.”

The final room of the tour is the drawing room, a soft, neutral room that is Elizabeth’s favorite. With plenty of natural light, floorto-ceiling bookshelves on the back wall, and a grand fireplace opposite, it is my favorite as well. This room also houses multiple bronzes sculpted by Elsa, as well as Mimi’s favorite painting of the farm itself, Pocock Bridge, by artist Henry Coe. “This room is one of only three rooms in Maryland designed by the noted Baltimore designer, Billy Baldwin, that remains essentially intact,” says Mimi.

A HOME, FIRST AND FOREMOST With its abundance of artwork, this house could pass for a private museum. But as I looked around one final time at the end of my tour, I could see that it’s a home, first and foremost. A home with lots of history and charm and character. I was drawn to the original wooden ceiling beams, the wide wooden plank floors throughout, the fireplaces in virtually every room, and, of course, the art. Accent rugs complement textured walls; chair rails and crown molding add structure, and artwork, painted by not-so-distant relatives, link the past to the present.

While Elizabeth and Sam are not artists in the traditional sense, they continue the family custom of living the sporting life. Elizabeth, who is continuing in her late-father’s footsteps, is perfecting the art of training steeplechasers and flat racers. Sam, an environmentalist, is perfecting the art of falconry and fly-fishing and still lives the country life just down the road from his family’s farm.

Atlanta Hall is filled with the history of horses and hounds, warm memories of times shared together, and rich sporting art that accurately portrays the family that dwells within. march/april ·

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L I F E of

barbe

by Jana Cohen Barbe

Saying Goodbye

T

his is the column I never wanted to write. It is about loss, not about the loss of a human being and the unfathomable pain that can follow, but about the unique and very specific grieving we endure when we lose a cherished and loved four-legged family member.

On New Year’s Eve, we lost Strudel, the very horse in these pictures. He was a member of our family for over a decade and ironically the youngest of our retired string. He was our “miracle boy” who, with a metal plate in his foot, recovered from high ring-bone to jump again. He was our “Zoolander” who loved posing for pictures (as you have now seen) and had his own version of the “Blue Steel” pose. He was a barn busybody incapable of keeping his head in a stall when people were around.

He was a chronic space invader. He was prone to ducking out to

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the left but only on his second day of showing and only if he won on the first day (because what is the point of competing a second day when you have already won). He hated carrot cake but loved granola bars. He was fastidious unless there was mud around. And he was our daughter’s best friend, though he ran away with her more than once, broke her nose twice, and jumped her out of the tack more times than I can count.

What is it about animals that enables them to burrow so deeply into our hearts and how do we recover when they are gone? In my lifetime, I have learned so much from every animal I have ever loved but never more so than when I am forced to say goodbye.

So, with infinite appreciation to Strudel, to Henley, to Tilly, and to all the others that now live in our hearts, here are only a few of the lessons on loss I have learned.

We cannot allow the fear of loss to limit our capacity to love.

At this moment, we have a barn filled with “grumpy old men.” The oldest of our string is 27. We know we will lose them all as the years go by and it will be ungodly painful but we would not have it any other way.

We are so blessed to be living with our retired horses and to be enjoying their goofy and eccentric personalities even now when we can no longer ride them. We cherish every moment of every day with them and we try very hard not to think about the future. A life lesson if there ever was one.

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

The loss is real and it is okay if others do not understand it​.

In 2008, when I lost Henley, for whom our farm is named, I cried for weeks. I grieved for months. I hid it pretty well though at the office and from most of my friends because, in many ways, I was ashamed of my reaction. How could I feel so badly when others were experiencing the much more profound loss of a person? Now, many years later, having lost both my parents, I do not draw comparisons between one kind of pain and another. There is no comparison, but that does not mean the loss of a horse or a cat or a dog isn’t painful and profound and real. It hurts, and we are not obligated to justify that to anyone, nor are we obliged to recover on any one else’s schedule. Each of us is always free to feel what we are feeling.

Feelings of loss and empathy are not restricted to humans.

When we lost our dog Tilly, her “sister,” Molly, went through a lengthy grieving period. It took Molly months to find her “bounce” again.

When we said goodbye to Strudel, the reaction of the horses stunned and moved me. First, his best friend, Oliver, would not leave his side.

Oliver understood that Strudel would not be returning to the paddock and he was not ready to let him go. It was only when Strudel walked out willingly that Oliver stood back and allowed Strudel to leave. Then, as the end was near, all of our horses, even the pregnant thoroughbred mares, gathered at the gates to their paddocks and stood in witness. There is no doubt that they understood what was happening and they wanted to be there both for Strudel and for us. And afterwards, the most extraordinary thing of all happened. When Strudel was leaving the farm for the last time, all of the horses lined up again but this time they turned their backs to the barn. They all faced the horizon, as if to remember Strudel running in the field and to see him only in that way. I cannot explain any of this. I researched herd behavior to see if it was commonplace and found nothing. I will simply say that I have come to believe that animals understand emotions on a level that we often do not understand and their capacity for empathy is limitless.

So go home and hug your loved ones, your friends and your four-legged family members, and know that while their time with us is limited, their impact on us is without limits and unending. They live on. Love you Strudel.

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 © Jeff Rogers

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O N the

cover

by Nina Vogel & Jackie McFarland

Eric Navet and The Flying Ham (left), Karl Cook and Caillou (right); photo Š Nina Vogel

THE EVOLUTION OF A L A S T I N G PA R T N E R S H I P

Karl Cook & Eric Navet Early mornings of simple demands and small triumphs kick start each day for Karl Cook and Eric Navet of Pomponio Ranch. Promptly climbing aboard the first horses of the day at 7 a.m., they practice methodical repetition and reiterate clear communication with their mounts.

Each rider will take his time, checking in with the animal beneath him, noting its energy, mood, comfort and focus. Their mission is to replicate the previous day’s work, which mimicked the work of the day before, improving the clarity and depth of the partnership through each wet blow of the nose and hoof beat in the sand.

This particular routine that now defines the lives of the 14 show horses that travel with Cook and Navet was, however, not always as it is today.

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HALF A DEC ADE AGO In 2012, Cook realized he needed a change.

Though he had been presented with many a blue ribbon and medal, namely at the FEI North American Junior Young Rider Championships in 2007 and 2008, his riding had plateaued and he was on a downhill slope.

Upon traveling to Europe to help his sister on her Young Riders tour, Cook was introduced to the internationally acclaimed French rider Eric Navet by long-time friend Ali Nilforushan.

“When you get the chance to ride with Eric, you just say, ‘Yes,’” Cook remarked. “I realized that I needed to relearn everything.When you’re younger, it’s all about jumping bigger.

You don’t really appreciate or understand the exponential growth in knowledge and feeling you need to actually make those steps.”

Karl Cook and Caillou, photo © Amy McCool

Eric Navet and Tembla, photo © Amy McCool

After two intensive months out of the show ring at Navet’s farm in France, Cook returned to the States renewed. At that time, he continued receiving help from Navet for important events.Yet the young athlete sought consistency and structure, and who better to provide that foundation than show jumping legend Navet?

So what began as a sporadic teaching relationship between Navet and Cook blossomed into a long-term partnership that continues to shape both of their careers.

T H E N OV E LT Y O F N AV E T Proving his gift early on, Navet earned individual gold and silver medals, along with a team silver medal at the Junior European Championships. His accomplishments in the World Equestrian Games through the years include an individual gold, an individual silver, two team golds and two team silvers. As a three-time member of France’s Olympic show jumping team, Navet helped bring home the team bronze in 1992. Navet also holds an individual gold medal from the European Championships as well as five from the French Championships. Talented and driven, with a composed nature, Navet has earned respect from fellow competitors and trainers worldwide.

An emphasis on horsemanship stands as the underlying foundation of Navet’s work. His father, a breeder and international rider, taught him to “be a horseman before being a sportsman.”

Though grooms play an essential role in

the life of a show jumper, Navet believes a rider must be able to perform every task himself and work with the caregiver to do what is best for each horse. To illustrate this point, Navet recounts his mount throwing a shoe in the first round of the Junior European Championships. With no farrier to be found, 16-year-old Navet tacked the shoe back onto his horse’s hoof himself and proceeded to win the second round of competition.

A HOLIS TIC APPROAC H, MASTERING THE CANTER & O B S E R VAT I O N Mastering horsemanship entails knowledge of conformation, bits, saddles, soundness, feed, grooming and, of course, riding, though in a well-rounded program the riding is just another piece. Cook’s interest in horsemanship was a draw for Navet when taking Cook under his wing, as he feels it mandatory to have a holistic approach to the sport.

Cook noted with a laugh that before becoming Navet’s student, his knowledge of bits was a snaffle.

Once on horseback, the program’s focus is flatwork. Navet confirmed that talented horses know how to jump. The key to success in the show ring, he says, is having perfect control and balance in any kind of canter. The canter is at the heart of the program’s flatwork.

“It’s impressively hard,” Cook said of the gait. “You don’t understand what you don’t know until you finally feel what you’ve been trying to feel.”

An essential element of Cook’s initial training with Navet was just that: learning to feel the canter. Their approach to jumping stems from choosing a canter, rather than a distance. If you’ve chosen the correct canter for any given place on course, the appropriate distance will present itself. Reaching the level of sophistication needed to select and create such a canter requires patience and practice, but also a relationship with the horse.

“It’s all about the code that you install between the rider and the horse. Once the horse understands the code, every day is just rehearsal,” Navet said. “Training is about improving the communication and the partnership between the horse and the rider.”

In order to build such a relationship, consistency retains the utmost value.

“Imagine if you tried to teach a dog to sit, but every fourth time you said ‘stand’ instead of ‘sit.’ Obviously the dog wouldn’t sit. ‘Sit’ means one thing, and when you train, you have to be consistent in telling the horse what you want,” Cook explained.

Though he has spent upwards of four years now under Navet’s tutelage, Cook still considers himself in the thick of the learning process. Noting that he has a vastly better understanding of the concepts than he did before, he still has not fully mastered each detail and continues to absorb knowledge daily. He has learned quite a bit from simply observing Navet and adapting to his style. Cook remembers watching Navet clean his boots at the end of the day, day in and day out, so although previously considering it unimportant, Cook now cleans his boots daily as a part of his routine.

Cook cited watching Navet flat a horse, fully engaged in the connection, unaware of observing eyes, as one of the greatest joys of the partnership. To watch his mentor execute precisely the methods he teaches and extract the results he describes elevates Cook’s learning to a new level of clarity.

Navet & Cook clean their boots daily; photo © Nina Vogel

A TEAM APPROAC H FOR SOUNDNESS A vital part of the soundness and perfect maintenance of these horses can be attributed to the help of Philippe and Kate Benoit, the husband-and-wife vets who work with Cook and Navet multiple months each year.

The veterinarian for the French Olympic show jumping team at the 2004 Games in Greece, Philippe is an internationally respected practitioner who has shared his knowledge around the world, both in practice and through lectures. As a bodyworker, Kate is educated in both chiropractic work and acupuncture. Though also a licensed vet, she focuses on the eastern practices with a western knowledge base.

Cook consults with vet Philippe; photo © Nina Vogel

The maintenance of the horses is a team effort involving the riders, the vets, the farriers and the grooms alike.

“It’s kind of like a group reflection each time,” Philippe noted. “We’ll see things they can’t feel or they’ll feel things that we can’t see.”

Philippe uses top of the line machines to treat the show horses prophylactically, relaxing their muscles and increasing their blood flow, among other things, to keep them comfortable and performing at their best.

Philippe’s wife Kate, a bodyworker, is also part of the Pomponio Ranch team; photo © Nina Vogel

Two main treatments the team uses are Therapeutic Ultrasound and Functional Electrostimulation. The ultrasound sends sound waves into the tissue that stimulate it at different depths. Depending on the frequency used, different parts and depths of the body can be targeted and benefit from increased warmth and circulation. The Functional Electrostimulation releases muscle tension in a more specific way than the ultrasound.

Philippe uses Shockwave therapy regularly as a treatment, specifically a treatment to replace and thus minimize injections. Cook noted that a less common use of Shockwave therapy is on muscles, but they find it extremely beneficial. The team will also be receiving a laser in the next several months that Philippe will use at home, targeting very specific parts of the body such as a particular joint, or tiny tear in a muscle. The veterinarian also works with the farriers.

Philippe described the system as a “team synergy.” Everyone involved pays the utmost attention to detail and retains the care of the horses as the highest priority. Cook proudly noted that they have 14 sound show horses.

EVOLUTION OF A PA R T N E R S H I P Cook and Navet are now a well-oiled machine, and together maintain a string of show horses. The hard-working duo strive to perfect the simple components of their training program. The simplicity of the program on paper,despite its effectiveness, can be deceiving. The execution is the challenging part that requires commitment, dedication, focus, and above all, patience.

“To get the simple perfect is hard, but it’s much more important than to do something complicated that will never be perfect,” Navet said. “This is our way.”

In order for a strong system to function, its users must believe in it. When they delve into a project, Navet explained that they focus on it “two-hundred percent,” that nothing can be accomplished with anything less. Navet pointed out that there are no hard and fast rules with horses.

Consequently, they accept that not every horse will thrive in their program.

“We love to say that we’re doing it the right way, but someone else’s system might be better for a certain horse,” Cook noted.

Though the focus on training trumps the desire to set show goals based on titles, a

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"Their location may change, the competition level may rise, but their methodology will remain consistent."

Eric Navet; photo © Kate Houlihan

Photo © Nina Vogel

Photo © Kate Houlihan

L–R: Navet, Tembla & Cook; photo © Nina Vogel

win always feels good. Navet expressed how tremendously proud he was of Cook and his chestnut mare Tembla for their victory in the $135,600 Longines FEI World Cup™ Qualifier last August at Thunderbird.

Both the winner and his trainer beamed at the way the class was won, as opposed to the win itself.

“Nobody could go faster,” Navet boasted of his mentee and the horse they had brought along together.

This year, Cook and Navet plan to head to the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final in Omaha before continuing to Tryon and Kentucky and ultimately returning to California. Their location may change, the competition level may rise, but their methodology will remain consistent.

Five years into a long-term plan, the pair have formed a long-lasting bond with one another.

Award coolers adorn the Pomponio Ranch tack room; photo © Kate Houlihan

L–R: Tembla, Cook, Banba & Navet; photo © Kate Houlihan

“Before I said it was my system, but now it’s our system,” Navet said with a smile.

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STYLE

by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

Trendy Trainer Lady Ibiza Toquilla Straw Sunhat, Sensi Studio, $295 Labradorite Disk Choker, Chan Luu, $130 Nile Small Bracelet Minaudière Bag, Chloe, $1,450 Carmen Dress, Rönner Design, $395 Cheval Surprise Hinged Bracelet, Hermès, $600 Hampton Sandal, Katharine Page, $375

Spring Fling Rain, rain, go and hide, spring is here and we want to ride – outside!

Don’t let the March drizzle halt your spring vibes. Soon enough, the weather will turn, and flouncy floral prints and sandals will be back in your wardrobe rotation. So grab a wide brimmed hat, your favorite new Katharine Page sandals, and catch us outside!

Ambient Amateur Oval Signature Sunglasses, Chanel, $350 Canterbury Small Horseferry Check Tote, Burberry, $1,150 Sarah Shirt Dress, Current/Elliott, $126 Marina 18ct Gold Horsebit Earrings, Gucci, $1,100 Equestrian Hunter Jumper Cuff, Loriece, $70 Kingsley T-Strap Flat Sandal, Chloe, $680

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Jovial Junior Cowdray Funnel Neck Sweatshirt, Joules, $85 Sterling Silver Snaffle Bit Bangle, Caracol, $89 Emerson Embroidered Slim Boyfriend Jean, Citizens of Humanity, $295 Hot Pink Jumper Crossbody/Wristlet, Paul & Lydia, $57 Wensley Navy Horse Scarf, Joules, $38 Huxley Satin Skate Sneaker, Joie, $198

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march/april ¡

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destination

by Sarah Appel

PA R K C I T Y, U TA H Most of my business trips for Horse & Style are to horse shows, and my time is spent watching horses, making connections with vendors, and editing pictures. So when Park City invited me for a long, non-horsey weekend of mountain biking, beer tasting and an arts festival, I jumped at the chance for a change of venue. And though I did not ride during my trip to Park City, I can assure you, Park City is a destination any horse person will love. Outdoor fun, art, food, beer and beautiful aesthetics are the makings of an amazing weekend, horse show or not.

MOUNTAIN LUXURY The town of Park City is nestled in the middle of beautiful, huge mountains, and just the drive to the hotel was impressive.

As I walked up to the Waldorf Astoria Park City, I was instantly in love with the décor and styling. The dark wood and exposed rocks on the facade gives the building the perfect lodge feel and helped me transition to a small town, mountain state of mind.

As I walked into the lobby, it was clear that the beauty and style of the interior matched the rustic elegance of the outside.

A large, crystal chandelier hangs above two quilted, leather couches that frame an impressive fireplace, creating a space that beckons to you to come sit, read a book and order a hot drink. However, I was eager to get to my room, to see if my personal accommodations would match the opulence of the public lobby. As I walked into my room, I was not disappointed.

The luxurious suite was beautiful and practical, complete with a kitchen, washer and dryer, and two bathrooms. The suite had everything a single visitor, or even a family, might need for an adventurous and comfortable stay in Park City!

A R T S I N T H E PA R K I could have stayed the whole weekend luxuriating in my suite and exploring Waldorf Astoria’s amenities, but I love a good art show and the Kimball Arts Festival was on the itinerary for the day.

Set along the picturesque Main Street in downtown Park City, the Kimball Arts Festival hosts over 225 artists and serves as the primary fundraiser for the Kimball Art Center each year. Proceeds from the Festival allow the Kimball Art Center to provide, free of charge, art exhibitions, gallery tours, monthly “Art Talks” and art education outreach to teachers, students and the community. I was impressed by

the festival, but also by the community commitment to making the arts accessible to everyone.

As I walked down Main Street, I thoroughly enjoyed talking to artists from all over the country who had traveled to Park City to set up shop and sell their unique works of art. I fell in love with at least one piece from every medium – sculpture, painting, photography, print, ceramic – they were all beautiful. Each artist had a unique perspective, and with many pieces, I could really feel their history and message come through. There was also plenty of art to satisfy the equestrian in me. Breathtaking photographs of wild mustangs, modern horse prints made with small pieces of magazine pages, and simple horse portraits with bold colors were just a few of the examples of horse-inspired art that had to come home with me. The best part, however, is witnessing the artists

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become eager and excited to share their stories, and explain why being a part of such a unique festival is important to them.

FOODIES WELCOME While top-notch skiing put Park City on the map, the outstanding restaurants and innovative chefs of Park City keep it bustling year-round, by drawing foodies drawing foodies and spirit enthusiasts from all over to experience the culinary wonders of the town. After the festival, we enjoyed an incredible meal at Tupelo Park City, where I got to experience the Maine Crab Fritters and the Summer Salad, both of which I can highly recommend.

The next day, we met with Park City Brewery at the Waldorf Astoria for beer tasting. Although I am usually more of a wine tasting person, I never turn down a good beer and I love meeting people who are passionate about what they do, which the owners of Park City Brewery most certainly are. Scott Ray, Park City Brewery's operations manager, and Hud Knight, its sales manager, are excellent beer brewers as well as marketing and branding gurus! Their

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creative packaging is eye-catching and the names of their beers are clever – my personal favorite being the Hooker Blonde Ale, named after a fly fishing term.

S A D D L E S WA P After all the great beer and incredible food, I was in need of some exercise. While there is lots of opportunity for horseback riding in Park City, on this trip I swapped out my jumping tack for a bicycle saddle (yes, the seat of a bicycle is called a saddle!) and a rocky ride down the mountains of Deer Valley. When I saw downhill mountain biking next on the itinerary, I was definitely hesitant. But whether it was peer pressure or that crisp mountain air, I suited up in full mountain biking gear and jumped on a bike. After a brief practice in the parking lot – pedals, check! Brakes, check! Turn a bit each way, check! – into the gondola I went to travel to the very top of the mountain.

The initial descent was intimidating.

Seasoned mountain bikers buzzed past me as I waited tentatively at the top.

But I quickly tapped into my equestrian knowledge and began to look at riding a mountain bike like riding a horse. Similar to riding, the instructors told me to sit back, be light and easy on the brakes, look where I wanted to turn, and to keep my eyes up. Sound familiar? Once I gave in to trusting the instructor, and my bike, I literally and figuratively just rolled with it, and had the best time! Zooming down the dirt slopes was exhilarating. I may have been the only rider that day that was saying “whoa” to my bike, but I made it down in one piece!

UTAH MOMENT Early in my trip, a fellow journalist was telling a story about how she overheard a fellow patron at a restaurant say to his

server that he didn’t want the french fries that came with his meal and he would like to “gift” them to another table. And who doesn’t love free french fries? A local soon explained to us that she had witnessed a “Utah Moment,” a local term that describes a random act of kindness that the town embraces and encourages.

Throughout my amazing trip, I noticed these Utah Moments everywhere I went. I began to wonder, does the fresh Park City air make people kinder? The calmer pace of life? Or are people just so content in Park City, it makes them kind? Regardless, it’s something I’ve tried to continue even after leaving Utah, now fondly calling them my “California Moments.” But after such an incredible trip, I will soon visit again, and get a little refresher on Utah Moments, and everything else that makes Park City so wonderful.

Photos courtesy of Park City Tourism

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by Emily Pollard photos by Brita Potenza

Trifecta

Equine Athletic Center BONSALL, CA

W

hen owners Korin Potenza, DVM, and Nick Huggons, DVM DACVS, were picking a name for their new equine athletic center, “Trifecta” was an easy choice for many reasons. The two were event riders, so they believe in the discipline’s trifecta of dressage, show jumping, and cross country. The center is built on a property that was used to raise and train race horses, and in racing parlance, winning a trifecta occurs when a bettor correctly picks the first three finishers in a race. Most importantly, the center offers its clients the trifecta of athletic care: sports medicine, rehabilitation and conditioning.

Maintaining soundness in an equine athlete is nearly as great a job, and certainly as important, as the training that is done under saddle. Yet rehabilitating the injured equine athlete is a topic not nearly as thoroughly discussed as training strategies, though the manner in which a horse is brought back to full work is a key factor in keeping him sound. Potenza’s background in equine sports medicine, her position as owner and manager of a busy equine hospital, and her own experience as a horse owner, led her to realize how much the industry needed a place, and plan, for horses that have reached the post-treatment or post-surgery stage at the equine hospital, but are not quite ready to return to full work. She explains:

One of three barns located at Trifecta that overlooks the 7/8 mile training track used for conditioning, and a few of the grass pastures available.

“These horses have the same physical therapy needs as human athletes, yet we don’t have the same sports medicine centers for horses as we do for march/april ·

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Similar to a gym, most of the modalities are located in one room which allows the athletes to move from the custom vibration plate within a stall, to the underwater treadmill with incline options, and then onto the cold saltwater spa. The variety of services also includes an under saddle program with endless groomed trails to enjoy.

ourselves. Our goal was to provide a center where horse owners and their trainers and veterinarians could send a horse to receive the full gamut of rehabilitation capabilities, from regenerative medicine to physical therapy equipment, to conditioning programs, and the ability to meticulously monitor progress with veterinary supervision.”

With this goal in mind, she designed and built a state of the art rehabilitation center on a 500 acre ranch in Bonsall, in the heart of southern California that boasts some of the top equine rehabilitation equipment the world has to offer: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Underwater Treadmill, Cold Saltwater Spa, Solarium Infrared Light Therapy, Vibration Therapy, and Sports Medicine and Regenerative Therapy capabilities. In many cases, as with their unique aquatreadmill which can vary water heights, speeds, and incline,Trifecta will have the only one of its kind in the United States. When Trifecta says they offer world class care, it is in the very literal sense of the phrase.

It is certain that Trifecta offers all the equipment and monitoring necessary to heal injuries, but they also offer something else very important to safely rehabbing a horse: a tranquil, peaceful and serene facility. The facility boasts large airy box stalls, groomed sand pens and grass pastures in order to meet the needs of every patient. Despite the availability of hundreds of acres, the maximum horse count for Trifecta is 70, because the individual care of each horse is prioritized, and that is the head count that works best for the team. Potenza explains that their dedicated focus is what sets Trifecta apart: “What makes Trifecta special is our attention to detail, our continual desire to improve every day, and our drive to advance the level of sports medicine and rehabilitation that we can provide our equine athletes. We believe if there’s an option to be better, then good is never enough. We are in it 100% for the horses.”

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Trifecta is in it 100% for the horses, but they are also in it 100% for the owners and veterinarians. Trifecta vows to work seamlessly with the owners and their veterinarians in order to keep the team updated and involved in the rehabilitation and conditioning process of the horse. In addition to the in-house veterinary care, rooms are available for visits with the patient’s regular veterinarian and farrier, so the horse’s ongoing program is uninterrupted. In this way, Trifecta adds one more namesake “trifecta,” that of veterinarian, owner and horse.

A horse’s time at Trifecta is not usually planned, and because they are not a boarding barn, it will end. However, when the time to say goodbye comes, everyone is left with a lasting impression.The owners and trainers will remember the excellent care and lovely location, while the horse will remain in the hearts of the Trifecta staff: “When a horse leaves Trifecta to head back to do its job, it is as if they are taking a little piece of us with them. The team takes such a vested interest in each horse, so to watch them go is bittersweet.

However, we can promise you this, every one of us is tracking his or her progress, checking in, and has become that horse’s biggest fan!”

There could not be a more dedicated team, or beautiful location, to bring a horse back to full health and work, than Trifecta. This equine athletic center is certainly a barn to envy, both for its form and its function.

trifectacenter.com | FB: Trifecta Equine Athletic Center

The under saddle program at Trifecta is customized to bring the horse back into full work before returning home. With two arenas and 7/8 mile training track that are groomed daily, as well as miles of trails that can be tailored to include hills, the program is favored for use in flatwork, jumping and conditioning. Below: No matter the direction you turn, there are endless views of peace and tranquility at Trifecta.

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C U R A T E D by an

by Laurie Berglie

equestrian

Julie Ferris You’ve probably seen her work before, maybe on Instagram or elsewhere on social media. Her pieces are striking, powerful, bold, and immediately recognizable.

Her name is Julie Ferris, and her work is the future of equestrian art and equine portraiture.

“Portrait of Legato II,” Custom Commission, Oil on Belgian Linen, 48"x36", 2016

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ART AS A LIFEST YLE As equestrians, we’ve all heard the expression, “Horses aren’t a hobby, they’re a lifestyle.” Ferris agrees with that statement, but she also feels the same sentiment can apply to her career. “Lately, I have discovered that being an artist is a lifestyle. It is a mindset, a way of thinking, and it is an outward expression of who I am and who I want to be.”

Ferris always knew she wanted to be an artist. From elementary through high school, she participated in as many art classes as she could, and she attributes the strong foundation on which her work stands today to those early courses. Also during this time, Ferris was riding often and falling deeply in love with all things equestrian. “Thankfully, my mom enrolled me in a summer horse camp when I was about six, and I have been enamored by and continually drawn to the horse ever since.” She continued to take lessons at a hunter/jumper barn weekly and rode whenever she had the opportunity.

Her love of art and horses led her to The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) where Ferris earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree while minoring in Equestrian Studies and competing on the IHSA SCAD Equestrian Team. “Attending SCAD and minoring in Equestrian Studies while riding on the team produced significant growth in me as an equestrian and truly laid an incredible foundation as I graduated to pursue my career as an Equestrian Artist.” After graduation in 2012, Ferris stayed in Savannah for another four years before moving back home to the Northern Metro Atlanta area where she is now painting out of a studio in Historic Downtown Norcross.

“Portrait of the Three Girls,” Custom Commission, Oil on Canvas, 36"x60", 2016

Portrait of Julie Ferris, artist, photo © William Delk

“Formal Portrait of Mojito,” Custom Commission, Oil on Belgian Linen, 36"x48", 2015

THE HORSE AS ART Ferris focuses strictly on painting horses and would describe her style as contemporary realism inspired by minimalism, realism, surrealism, and impressionism. “For me, I combine both the aspects of fine art and the art of being a rider and an equestrian.

I also combine many techniques such as color blocking, glazing, layering, and scumbling. Materials are of paramount importance, and I paint with the finest brands of professional grade oils such as Williamsburg and Sennelier.” Ferris intentionally paints horses on a white background with some texture to add variation because she feels this is the best way to keep the subject the main focus without distractions.

Before she paints, Ferris requires a pre-painting photoshoot to ensure the quality and originality of her work, as well as to meet the horse in person. This time allows her to get a feel for her subject’s personality so she can accurately capture their true essence on the canvas. “Because of my experience through meeting and getting to know a horse from the photoshoot, I can genuinely relate to the portrait on a personal level as I am painting and ultimately create a stronger piece of art.”

Not surprisingly, Ferris gathers inspiration and development as an artist by studying the work of other artists, a few of her favorites

being Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, Alfred Sisley, Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, Paul Cezanne, and Leonardo da Vinci. “In reference to the Renaissance period and Leonardo’s legacy as a “Renaissance Man,” I like to think of my work as sparking a renaissance or rebirth of the horse in art, seeing the horse as art itself. I challenge myself to bring something new to the table, something different.”

She also notes the wonderful equestrian artists, both past and present, who have influenced her work: Rosa Bonheur, Sir Alfred J. Munnings, James Way, Michael Creese, Susan Leyland, Roberto Dutesco, and Christian Hook. George Stubbs, the prominent equestrian artist of the 18th century who was known to dissect deceased horses in order to better study and capture their anatomy, has both inspired and challenged Ferris. “When I visited the National Gallery in London, I sat in front of his painting, Whistlejacket, for over an hour. Knowing my subject as well as possible is highly important, and Stubbs’ work has influenced me to know the horse both inside and out. I don’t think it is possible to know a subject too well, and I aim to always learn every aspect about horses.”

O N E PA S S I O N I N F LU E N C E S A N OT H E R Ferris is looking forward to 2017 in which she will continue to create a limited amount of custom work, as well as start a new

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body of personal work, some of which will be sold at The Grand Bohemian Gallery where she has representation. She will continue to create equestrian works of art that are engaging and original and strive for excellence in all aspects as her business grows.

She will also continue to ride and notes that while she loves riding, it does not come as easy to her as painting. “Painting has always been so natural for me though I know I still have much to learn. Riding, however, is such a challenge. It really stretches me in ways that painting cannot. Pursuing my personal development as a rider is of utmost importance because it is integral to my quest as an equine artist and teaches me more about myself. It all comes full circle because painting horses makes me a better rider as I learn skills of patience, determination, and discipline. Riding makes me a better artist as I practice skills relating to maintaining relationships through communication and sensitivity, self-awareness, concentration, balance, and assertiveness.”

Ferris, quite simply, is captivated by the horse and recognizes the special bond between a horse and its rider. Like most equestrians, she believes that horses make us better people, truer versions of ourselves. Through the use of color, composition, and accurate rendering, Ferris aims to depict and reflect the deep-rooted passion and complexity of the human-horse relationship. Above all, she also shows the love for the essence of the horse and all it symbolizes.

A UNIVERSAL L ANGUAGE Running her own business is very time-consuming, but Ferris makes sure she sets time aside for riding, visiting with family and

friends, and playing the piano. She also enjoys going on walks with her dachshund Gretchen Wieners, her “studio assistant” who keeps her company while she paints. Ferris is also quick to give thanks to God for giving her the gift of artistic talent and blessing her with family, friends, teachers, and clients who have helped and supported her since the beginning.

Ferris says one of her greatest accomplishments is having a job that brings her joy. She has worked hard to get to this stage where she has a great portfolio of work, both personal and custom, and she has patrons who believe in and value her work. She knows there is a connection between horses and art that will last forever.

“Art engages and challenges people, and above all, it communicates something – it’s a universal language. The horse has been an integral part of human history since the beginning; as societies and cultures developed, you find that the horse played a vital role. When I create a painting of the horse, it’s more than that; it is the idea, the mystery, the essence, as well as the rich history they have been a part of, influenced by my own personal experience. By creating works of art that showcase the horse, I am communicating a message that connects with equestrians all over the world and will speak to future generations.”

julieferrisart.com IG: @julieferris_equine_artist

“Formal Portrait of Legato,” Custom Commission, Oil on Belgian Linen, 36"x48", 2016

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feature

by Pam Maley

Wild Horses & Second Chances ‘Running Wild’ shines a bright light on the problems of the wild horses in the West, protected, but struggling to survive in the wild. While it presents two opposing points of view, it does so through an endearing tale that will leave its imprint on horse lovers and romantics alike.

Set in the Napa Valley, and filmed on the K2 Ranch in Glen Ellen, California, the rugged terrain will be familiar to Californians.

T

he film tells the story of a young widow trying to save her ranch following her husband’s fatal truck crash. She creates a convict rehabilitation program, working with a herd of wild horses that have wandered onto her property. She is surprised to find herself facing a determined opposition coming from a powerful woman who believes strongly that the wild horses should be preserved in the wild – not tamed. She did not anticipate the greed, bureaucracy and vanity that she must overcome to heal the convicts, the horses and ultimately herself, as she comes to understand that there is no better remedy for misfortune than helping another living creature.

“Our goal was to make an entertaining film that would put a spotlight on the wild horse problem,” observed director Alex Ranarivelo. “Our core story was a widow who’s given a second chance at life. When our writers came across the wild horse rehabilitation program that gives wild horses and convicts a second chance, it just felt like it was meant to be. Second chances became a theme.”

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R E H A B I L I TAT I N G MEN AND HORSES The program that caught the eye of the writers is the highly successful Wild Horse Inmate Program (WHIP) initiated in Cañon City, Colorado, in 1986 by the Colorado Correctional Industries, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the governmental group charged with overseeing the wild horses. The production staff of ‘Running Wild’ traveled to Cañon City to observe this program that rehabilitates both man and animal.

The WHIP program employs a staff of professional horse trainers who provide horsemanship, animal husbandry, and farrier skills. The rest of the workforce is made up of inmates who have committed nonviolent crimes, and have earned their way into WHIP through good behavior and an attitude of cooperation. Both horses and inmates are in need of rescue and healing, and the magical bond that forms between them makes that happen. The horses teach the inmates patience, warmth, and respect for all living things; and the inmates’ caring presence teaches the horses to trust humans, and brings them back to health by providing for their basic needs. The inmates gain employable skills that they can

use upon release. Horses were among the main actors in the film, and the viewer is drawn into the story as troubled men make new beginnings through the age-old craft of horsemanship.

IMPORTANT EQUINE CAST MEMBERS Six of the horses were supplied by a stock contractor in Nebraska named Derry Mayfield. When this group of horses arrived on set, they were said by Mayfield to be ‘broke to ride,’ and they were, but, says Producer/Writer/Actress Christine Moore, “They may have been ‘all broke to ride,’ but many were not very socialized.

They were skittish and spooked easily.

Dave Duquette, our on-set wrangler, did quite a bit of training, riding, cajoling, handling, and further breaking them during filming. The most gentle of the bunch became the hero horses for our two leads: Stella (Dorian Brown Pham) and Bratt (Jason Lewis).”

In order to film the early scenes showing the wild horses that wandered onto the ranch, another six horses were adopted from the BLM, which, in an effort to control the population, routinely rounds up some of the wild horses, pens them up,

Tom Williamson (Debrickshaw) connects with his wild horse

Actor Anthony Snow, on the set, greets one of the adopted horses

Dorian Brown Pham (Stella)

Dorian Brown Pham (Stella)

Tommy Flanagan (head of the prison crew) shows relief and affection when his horse finally quiets down

and offers them for adoption. These were the thin, unkempt, desperate horses that Stella discovered early in the story.

Though nearly all of the scenes were filmed without stunt people, there was a scene of a horse bucking wildly, in which a stunt man stood in for the rider. For scenes like this, another group of horses was used. These are the stunt horses that come to the set to do their job, just like the human actors do.

They are skilled performers, and are always accompanied by their own wranglers.

“I think most horses are as good as the trainer who rides them,” says Moore. “A movie horse must be totally prepared to be controlled by an external trainer. A lot of actors are unskilled riders, and their attention is elsewhere while on horseback (focused on the acting, the script, the emotions). The behavior of movie horses can be commanded by a trainer from across a field. For example, they will stand still on command, and not move, regardless of the noise, activity and chaos of a set. They are true professionals.”

FILMING WITH HORSES Duquette, the head wrangler on the set, is a cowboy by profession, and came on board during the writing phase, to guarantee authenticity in every detail. When filming began, he contacted his friend, stock contractor Mayfield, who joined the team along with three of his employees.

making certain that the environment was safe for the horses, etc. And there’s an ASPCA rule that limits the staff to two shoots. After the scene is shot twice, the horse(s) must be rested until the next day, whether or not the director is satisfied.

Many of the scenes of interaction between the horses and the prison crew were filmed in a round pen; and in those scenes, Duquette is in the movie as one of the prisoners, so that he could be inside the round pen in case the people or the horses needed him.

Not only was Duquette responsible for the horses and the tack, it was his job to take actors with varying experience with horses (or none at all), and bring them up to speed for the film. Says Moore, “Tommy Flanagan (the head of the prison crew) is a horseman, Jason Lewis (Bratt, the male lead) had ridden, Sharon Stone is an accomplished equestrian, and Dorian (Stella, the female lead) had never been on a horse.” Duquette got Dorian astride a horse for an hour each day, and coached her. She enjoyed it so much that she would come to the set to interact with the horses on her days off; and by the end of filming, she had caught the horse and riding bug.

Any time horses (or, presumably, any other animals) are involved in the making of a movie, there are very strict ASPCA (humane society) requirements that must be met. The rule book numbers 129 pages, and every time a horse is working, there must be two wranglers present, in this case, Duquette and Mayfield. Also in attendance at all times are two ASPCA representatives who are vets or vet-techs. For every scene, as soon as the director says “Cut,” the wranglers are there to move in and take the horses.

MAKING THE CONNECTION In the film there’s a scene in the round pen in which one of the prisoners, Debrickshaw (played by Tom Williamson) is on the ground (not mounted), and trying to connect with a wild horse that was in the pen with him. The horse was one of the wild ones from the BLM that had had no experience with people, and Williamson had never been around horses.

The scene is beautiful to watch in the finished film, but, according to Moore, it was even more beautiful to watch it unfold in the filming. Williamson later commented that, “Horses are the best and the worst scene partners, because they don’t know how to lie.”

“Filming with horses mainly means everything is going to take a little longer because we want everything to be safe for the horses and for anyone on or near the horses. There is more preparation and rehearsal,” says Ranarivelo. Producer Moore commented that if, for example, six hours were spent shooting a scene, five-and-a-half were creating the environment: setting up the cameras so that they were hidden and in a place of safety for the cameramen/women,

Everything was real – no movie tricks. The actor was being talked through the scene

by Ranarivelo and Duquette, and it was truly a man and a horse having a moment on film. “Clearly the horse was not going to play until I had gotten myself in a good place,” Williamson declared. “I had to get centered, settled, relaxed – to overcome my nervousness. Once I did that, the horse slowly walked toward me as if to say, ‘I’m ready.’”

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HORSES IN CRISIS In a difficult-to-watch scene, there was a group of wild horses in various stages of starvation, and one horse was actually dying. Moore explained how those scenes were filmed. “Dave Duquette was alerted to a range in Nevada owned by The Borba family,” she told us, “where a herd of horses had wandered onto the property from nearby government lands.

They were hungry, thirsty, and generally beaten up and unhealthy. Producers sent a camera crew to the location to shoot the film in the wild. The dying horse footage was pulled from the documentary ‘Horses in Crisis,’ filmed in the government land in Nevada.” The lead actors were then composited into the scene using a green screen. Ranarivelo considers this the most important scene in the film.

By the end of filming, the twelve horses on the set had gained about 300 pounds each, and were noticeably healthier as they set off on new lives. Two of the BLM adoptees (Scooby and Blue) went home with Duquette to his ranch in Oregon.

The rest went back to Nebraska with Mayfield to become rodeo, ranch, or dude ranch horses.

But the difficult, politically-charged problem of the wild horses remains. The long drought in the West has had farreaching effects on the ecosystem, creating an inhospitable habitat. While recent rains have helped and the drought has been declared over, the horses are still in trouble. There are no predators to keep the population under control, and horses, by their grazing style, uproot the grass, which is slow to grow back.

But as more and more people become aware of the problem, more great minds and more resources will be available to solve it, and hope stays alive.

Released to select theaters and Video on Demand February 10, 2017. Details available at: runningwildmovie.com Also on Facebook: facebook.com/RunningWildMovie Due to be released on DVD in April All photos courtesy of Running Wild

The 7th Annual College Preparatory Invitational Horse Shows January 13-15, 2017

March 10-12, 2017

Jim Brandon Equestrian Center West Palm Beach, Florida

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A S K dr.

carrie

Q: A:

Do you have any tips for dealing with the stress that I feel when my class is running early and I don’t have time to visualize and prepare because I am rushed?

If circumstances emerge that prevent you from having the time to execute the steps of your mental practice, it is time to trust yourself to be able to complete the task at hand. When you take lessons at home your trainer gives you the exercise or course and you give it a shot.

You trust yourself. Try to bring this mentality to the horse show ring.

When you are feeling rushed, take a minute at the back gate to repeat the order of the jumps and strides in your mind a few times. Allow the natural mental process of

Q:

breaking the course into sections to occur. Take some slow deep breaths before entering the ring and continue them even as you are picking up ring pace. This will help keep your mind slow and focused. Trust your mindbody connection to get the job done well – you have done this many times before and it is in you.

Also, always be at the show one and a half to two hours before your class and check your ring’s status regularly.

Staying on top of these details will eliminate stress before it has a chance to gather steam!

I am a horse show mom and I have concerns about my daughter’s eating habits. She tends to eat large amounts of sugar and often rides on an empty stomach. I struggle to have conversations with her about her eating habits because she usually gets mad when I bring it up. What should I do?

A:

This is an important question and extends beyond equestrian life. Healthy eating habits are challenging to create and sustain, especially for teens. I encourage parents to recognize that as teens mature, their main job is to individuate and become their own person.

Since one of the only things a person can control in this life is the food they ingest, eating can get mixed up in the individuation process.

Sugar is addictive and prevents proper blood flow that supports optimum performance. However, sugar lights up the pleasure centers of the brain and can seem to calm nerves and give athletes a sense of false confidence when first ingested. I encourage teen athletes to experiment with a variety of pre-training and competition food choices in order to see which combinations best support them.

Do your best not to get caught in a power struggle with your daughter over food by talking about it from the perspective of tending her body as an athlete – similar to how we manage a horse’s feed. Ask questions and resist the urge to bring up examples of previous events that didn’t go well.

You can offer up ideas and choices but then you have to let go! You can also ask your daughter’s trainer to have ongoing conversations about training as an athlete, including food and hydration choices while showing. I encourage parents of teens to get support from impartial authorities – the trainer, PE teacher, mentors, and medical doctor – especially if you have any deeper level health concerns.

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 © Danielle Demers/EqSol

carrie@carriewicks.com

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B E H I N D the

lens

Tracy Emanuel Tracy Emanuel was active in the horse world long before she picked up a camera. She worked as a professional groom for some of the East Coast’s top show jumping riders, including Peter Wylde, Norman Dello Joio and Jeffery Welles. After moving to the North East, Emanuel continued to work with horses, both as a barn manager for Fran and Joe Dotoli and Tuny (Full) Page, and as a vet tech for Dr. Marty Simensen. Her passion and love for the horses she worked with led her to start capturing them in pictures.

While in the North East she started taking evening photography classes in Boston to advance her skill set and develop her eye as an artist. The more she learned and practiced the more deeply she became inspired by the way a single image could convey the incredible bond between a horse and its person. Capturing those special moments with a documentary-style approach became the foundation for her career as an equine photographer.

Over the last 25 years, Emanuel’s career has had her shooting horse portraiture, international shows and equine events throughout the United States, and she has enjoyed every minute of it. She also loves to give back to the equine community by photographing at two therapeutic riding schools on the East Coast, Windrush Farm and Vinceremous. The shoots are to benefit the riding school, but also keep Emanuel inspired as she loves capturing how generous and patient the horses are with the students.

Her work has graced the covers and illustrated feature stories in some of the country’s top equestrian and lifestyle magazines, but she always remains true to what started it all, a love of horses and her unique perspective. Emanuel explains, “I think we all see the world differently; I love using photography to share with others the way I see it. I am extremely grateful for all the people and animals that allow me to continue to share what I love so much.” tracyemanuel.com Instagram: @tracyemanuelphotography Facebook: Tracy Emanuel Photography

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PHOTO: MCCOOL PHOTOGRAPHY

WHERE TO FIND

Flintridge

2017

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SPRING CLASSIC APRIL 20023

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OUT&

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C O L L E G E P R E PA R A T O R Y I N V I T A T I O N A L ( C P I ) W E S T PA L M B E A C H , F L

1.

2.

6.

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CPI offers young equestrians (grades 8–12) the chance to explore the college equestrian experience. In addition to a competition, students are invited to an equestrian-focused college fair and to speak with college admissions representatives and equestrian team coaches. 1. Elizabeth DuePree of Escondido, California and Armani participate in the CPI clinic 2. The CPI Advanced Hunt Seat on the Flat Class 3. Mia Sisson (Intermediate Division High Point Rider) stands for a picture with CPI President Lindsay Martin and Ashley Snell of CPI Presenting Sponsor, Dover Saddlery 4. CPI Hire A Coach Eddie Federwisch of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) checks in with a rider 5. At the CPI College Fair, Michael Dowling and Kelly Munz from Centenary University introduce themselves to students 6. Gwyneth Babbington and How Lyn Acres' Gatzby compete in the CPI show Photos © Andrew Ryback

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C A N you

stand it ?

Elegant Embrace Have you ever wrapped your arms around your horse’s neck and secretly wished he could hug you back? Apparently, jewelry designer Karina Brez did, so much so, that she designed a new line for 2017, Huggable Hooves™. This stunning bracelet is offered in 18kt yellow, rose and white gold, set with diamonds, and has a wrap around design that gives your wrist the horsey-hug you’ve been dreaming of.

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