Pony & Style Vol. 2, 2017 by Horse & Style Magazine

summer 10 T H IN GS : A LE XA D IGNEL L I

2 017

TREND REPORT: BUCKLE UP

Pony & Style’s

Cover Photo Contest C U R AT E D BY A N E Q U E S T R I A N : C H I L D R E N ’ S H O R S E B O O K I L LU S T R ATO R S P O N Y C O R N E R : M E E T T U R B O • B E H I N D T H E L E N S : R AC H E L P E T E R S O N

WORL D

R TE N

STRIAN C UE E Q E

sic s a l C l l a F 2017

INVITATIONAL 2017

Save the dates and join us this fall! World Equestrian Fall Series I September 27 - October 1, 2017

World Equestrian Fall Series III October 11 - October 15, 2017

World Equestrian Center Fall Classic October 18 - October 22, 2017

World Equestrian Center Invitational October 24 - October 29, 2017

world equestrian center

Quality. Class. Distinction.

â&#x201E;¢

www.wec.net |

| Wilmington, Ohio

PUBLISHE R & E D ITO R - IN- C HIEF

Sarah Appel sarah@horseandstylemag.com

9 •

10 T H I N G S Alexa Lignelli

36 •

RIDER SPOTLIGHT Alexa Leong

10 •

POP QUIZ Stella Buckingham & Katie Gardner

40 •

L I F E OF B A R B E A Pony is my Spirit Animal

12 •

OUT & ABOUT Pony Classic Collection from Sonoma Horse Park

42 •

ST YLE PROFILES Pony Grind

44 •

PONY CORNER Meet Turbo

47 •

FE ATURE Get to Know

52 •

C U R A T E D BY AN EQUESTRIAN

ED ITOR

Emily Pollard ART DIRECTOR

Danielle Demers ASSIS TAN T P UB LIS HER

Samantha Hofherr

14 • 16 •

ED ITORIAL CON S ULTA NT

Jackie McFarland ADVERT ISIN G & SA LES

Laurie Berglie laurie@horseandstylemag.com

18 •

PHOTOGRAPH ER S

Rachel Peterson, Georgia Quackenbos, Avery Glynn, Lisa Wolkenhauer, Skyler Allen, Daisy Cottle-Bailey, Amy McCool, Stephanie Walker, James Berglie, Taylor Rea, Alli Addison, Michele Hofherr, Anne Gittins, Jeff Rogers, Roy Barbe, Javi Varela/GrandPix Photography, Alden Corrigan Media, Andrew Ryback Photography, Shawn McMillen, Grace Schinsing

O N T H E COV E R :

Photograph by Pony & Style's Cover Photo Contest winner Georgia Quackenbos 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.

2013

AR D WIN

Remembering our Favorite Children’s Horse

T R END RE PORT Buckle Up

Book Illustrators

NEW PRODUCT ALERT Sugar Stars

22 •

ST YLE RIDER Reilly Gogul

24 •

P &S H O M E Charming Bedrooms of the Pony Obsessed

28 •

O N TH E C O V E R P&S’s Cover Photo Contest

CONT RIB UTO RS

Laurie Berglie, Samantha Hofherr, Jana Cohen Barbe, Jackie McFarland, Pam Maley, Nina Vogel, Alli Addison, Terri Roberson, Psy.D.

OUT & ABOUT Pony Power at Blenheim EquiSports

20 •

COP YED ITOR

Pam Maley

B E T WE E N TH E LI NE S YA Reads for Pony Kids

24 20

56 •

OUT & ABOUT HITS Chicago

57 •

OUT & ABOUT Oxridge Hunt Club Charity Horse Show

58 •

B E H I N D TH E L E N S Rachel Peterson

60 •

CYSI Horse Power

28 44

F R O M the publisher

Discovering S Talent

ocial media is not just for teens and millennials. I have found that in both my personal life and with Horse & Style, social media plays a huge role in how I discover creative, like-minded people, interesting products, and extraordinary places. Several years ago, then fifteen-year-old photographer, Rachel Peterson, took an amazing shot of my daughter, Ella, when she was three-and-a-half, and riding in the leadline class at Sonoma Horse Park. To this day, it’s one of my favorite pictures EVER! One of my friends recognized Ella in the photo, and tagged me in the picture, thus starting my obsession with Rachel’s photography. When I reached out and asked to work with her, I was shocked to learn she was so young and yet already so incredibly talented. This is what the second edition of Pony & Style is all about – celebrating young equestrian talent, and taking a moment to appreciate the enthusiastic spirit of ponies and their riders! Another young equestrian, who has been a Horse & Style summer intern for three years running now, is Samantha Hofherr. Sam’s internship role has grown each year. Fresh off her first year at USC, Sam has literally taken the reins of this issue and made it her own, truly earning her Assistant Publisher title. While Sam still makes plenty of trips to the post office and Starbucks, allowing her to take more responsibility for this issue has been a wonderful experience for our team. Don’t miss her publisher’s letter on page 7.

Rachel Peterson’s adorable photo of Sarah Appel’s daughter Ella competing in a leadline class at Sonoma Horse Park

We are thrilled with this second edition of Pony & Style. Our cover photo contest brought together young photographers from across the globe to share their passion for horses and photography. Read about our winner and finalists on page 28. Rachel Peterson is our “Behind the Lens” artist for this issue, and her personal story is such a sweet one, it cannot be missed (page 58). Laurie Berglie contributed her regular Horse & Style columns, “Curated by an Equestrian” and “Horse & Style Home,” but with a fun pony twist, and the results are amazing! (pages 52 and 24). Watching this next generation of pony kids grow up is such a pleasure, as is raising two of my own pony kids. It is so exciting to see the next leaders of our industry come into their own – what a future it will be! Cheers,

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Kathryn Lily E

From schooling ring chic to show ring ready, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered.

KathrynLily.com BECAUSE RIDING IS, AFTER ALL, SERIOUS FUN!

F R O M the assistant publisher

“Love what you do, do what you love...”

rowing up in a household surrounded by creativity and art, I have always had a passion for the elements of design. My father founded his own advertising agency, and my mother is a photographer and painter, as well as creator and owner of Previously Owned by a Gay Man, an online-consignment home design store. Being raised in an environment where creative minds flow and ideas are constantly being bounced off each other, I have always been encouraged to pursue my passions and think outside the box. As a child, one of my biggest passions was horseback riding. What my parents initially thought was just a childhood interest, soon became my sole focus in life. I began competing at horse shows in middle school, and through the horse show circuit and barn life, I was introduced to Sarah Appel. Sarah became what I like to think of as my “horse show mom.” She introduced me to Stephanie Simmonds and the StillWater Equestrian team, both of whom helped me to take my riding and showing career to the next level. Sarah also introduced me to the world of Horse & Style, and I first worked as an intern during the summer before my junior year of high school. Horse & Style has allowed me to combine my passions for riding and design, and in turn, I get to help create a high-quality, eye-catching magazine that all equestrian readers can enjoy. During my internships, I have learned that a major element that can make or break an article is the photographs. That’s why one of my favorite pieces in this issue of Pony & Style is “Behind the Lens” featuring Rachel Peterson. Rachel is an amazing young photographer who has a great eye for capturing the simplistic beauty of the horse. She is also very sweet, and was a pleasure to work with.

Sam Hofherr, photo © Michele Hofherr

Actually, all the young people I worked with on this issue were a delight. Putting together this Pony & Style has been great fun, both because I learned so much about producing a magazine, and because I met so many wonderful young equestrian enthusiasts. I hope you love this issue as much as I do! Cheers,

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contributors

Emily Pollard

Jackie McFarland

Danielle Demers

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

Jackie and Duncan McFarland own EqSol, a marketing solutions company. After spending a decade in Southern California, in 2010, just in time for WEG, they moved to Lexington, Kentucky. Amazed at how time flies, the EqSol Team has grown, now reaching from CA to the UK, with exciting projects knocking at the door.

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.

Pam Maley

Laurie Berglie

Alli Addison

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.

Laurie was born, raised, and currently resides in MD. She enjoys renovating her fixer-upper farm, reading horse books, and training and competing her two OTTBs, Misty and Bailey. 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.

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.

Nina Vogel

Terri Roberson, Psy. D.

Jana Barbe

Since wrapping up a successful junior career, Nina has been traveling in Central America and continuing to ride before heading to Dartmouth College in the fall. She was editorin-chief of her high school newspaper and always enjoyed the challenge of balancing schoolwork and riding. As a member of the EqSol team, she is happily furthering her journalistic experience in a world she loves.

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.

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

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10 things

by Samantha Hofherr

…you may not know about…

ALEXA LIGNELLI New York City native, Alexa Elle Lignelli, fell in love with horseback riding at the age of four when her mother took her to a local stable to meet a pony named Little Misty. From that day forward, Alexa was involved with ponies in any way she could manage. She took lessons, started riding competitively, and currently trains at Over the Hill Farm with the help of Bill Schaub and Molly Sewell Schott. Now ten-years-old, Alexa has been having an amazing show season with her small pony hunter, iParty. This June, the two won the Wizard of Oz Perpetual Trophy, awarded at the Devon Horse Show to the best pair out of all the small, medium and large pony hunter combinations. This is certainly a pair to watch at Pony Finals this August, where Alexa has shown many times.

Alexa’s favorite hat is the Fedora that her Dad gave to her.

2. Her arms are covered in bracelets that never come off!

3. Nike Flyknit Running Shoes are her go-to shoe. 4. She travels an average of 30–35 weeks a year for equestrian competitions.

5. Alexa was named by her Great Grandfather Louie Lignelli.

6. Her family loves dogs. They own two English

Cocker Spaniels, named Remington and Riley.

Photo © Anne Gittins

7. Her favorite TV show is “Shark Tank,” which inspired her to start a journal of potential business ideas.

8. Alexa doesn’t have a favorite pony; she

maintains they are each special in their own way!

9. She and her barnmates love to have fun on

their ponies – riding bareback, playing red light-green light, and dressing them up for Halloween. Even when not riding they jump “horseless” pony jumps!

One of her favorite things is to go for a ride 10. with her mom and her sister Agatha.

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P O P quiz

Stella Buckingham wins the inaugural American Tradition of Excellence Equitation Challenge, presented by Whitethorne and hosted by Blenheim EquiSports; photos © Amy McCool

What was your impression of this new class where competitors received feedback from the judges via comment cards, and also attended an educational seminar? “I thought the American Tradition of Excellence Equitation Challenge was more than just a class, it was an education. The fact that you were able to get feedback from the judges on what they thought of your round and how to improve your riding was what separated it from your average class. I personally loved having the judges’ comments on my round because I felt that I understood what they were looking for and I wasn’t leaving the ring with questions about my ride. I enjoyed the courses set by Karen Healey and thought they were so much fun in the sense that they were challenging and there were tons of options on how to ride them (the courses). Another thing that made this class so spectacular is the riders meeting. This wasn’t just a meeting where you hear about the class. This meeting had a video, about the best of the best, and made me aspire to be a great rider. There was a Q & A in this meeting, where you could ask the judges anything and get a thoughtful response; when can you do that? I loved this class, and would do it again.

“To have a class where riders had access to feedback directly from the judges was a brilliant concept and one of the most rewarding experiences for me as a coach. I have been thinking for many years how great it would be to have this sort of interaction with judges for riders to learn and grow. So often I leave a competition and wonder, “what were they really looking for?” or “I don’t understand where that score came from.” This class was able to shed light on those questions. It also gave us insight on the judges. They aren’t just waiting for us to make a mistake. They want us to do well too. This experience humanized them, and the riders were able to take the constructive criticism and improve the next day. The seminar in the evening after the first round was very informative. The Equestrian Coach video featuring past Maclay winners was a wonderful tool to demonstrate what the judges were looking for. The Q & A session gave riders and trainers the ability to interact directly with the judges and to get feedback that is not normally available to them. I also thought the sports psychology seminar was a great addition. It emphasized the importance of mental preparation.

Thank you so much to everyone who made this class possible. I truly had a great time and learned so much.”

Thank you to all the people who worked very hard to make this class a reality. I feel honored to have been a part of it.”

— S T E L L A B U C K I N G H A M , Competitor

— K A T I E G A R D N E R , Trainer

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O U T & about

P O N Y C L A S S I C C O L L E C T I O N F RO M S O N O M A H O R S E PA R K , BROUGHT TO YOU BY C HARLEIGH’S COOKIES, PATRIC K SEATON STABLES & SMARTPAK

4. 6.

5. 1. Emilie Bell and Farmore Good As Gold celebrate their win in the $1,500 USHJA Pony Derby presented by SmartPak 2. The big and beautiful Sonoma Horse Park ribbons cannot be beat! 3. Hallelujah is just one of the many adorable ponies dwarfed by the ribbons 4. Say cheese! Ella Meuse gives a big smile as she and her pony, Catch a Wave, compete 5. Sydney Kleber gives Almost Dressed a well-deserved kiss after a long day of showing 6. Pony riders surround show sponsor, Cordelia Wolfe of Charleigh’s Cookies, as they wait to enter the show ring

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7. 8. 14. 9. 11.

10.

12. 7. Alexa Leong and Candy Crush pose for award pictures after winning the $500 Patrick Seaton Stables Pony Hunter Classic 8. Emma Borders gives her pony Be Cool a post round pat 9. Parker Piombo and Rivercross Utopia take a lap in the awards ceremony as winners of the $500 Charleigh’s Cookies Pony Classic 10. Perfectly braided ponies and pony kids jog for ribbons 11. Photographer extraordinaire, Alden Corrigan, captures the Charleigh’s Cookies jump in the background with Rachel Rosenblum and Sam I Am in the foreground 12. Patrick Seaton shows off the gorgeous $500 Patrick Seaton Stables Pony Hunter Classic ribbon Photos © Alden Corrigan Media

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B E T W E E N the lines by Laurie Berglie

YA Reads for Pony Kids

Best known for her “Loxwood” series, author Grace Wilkinson recently published Comet in Summer, a standalone novel that takes place in rural France. Fourteen year old Aurora “Rio” Reed is horse-obsessed, but as one in a family of six girls, she isn’t quite lucky enough to have a horse of her own. Right now, riding lessons at the local stable will have to suffice. One day, however, Rio sees a skinny black horse in a neighbor’s field, and on a whim, she purchases him with the little money she’s saved from tutoring. “His feet are splitting, legs covered in dry mud, and his spine looks like something a tightrope performer would walk across. Yet it’s my stomach that’s doing circus acts, flipping anxiously, and I feel it as certainly as I do the earth beneath my feet. That’s my horse.” Now Rio needs to get him home, rehab him back into shape, and – oh yeah – tell her parents she bought a horse! Comet ends up becoming something of a lucky charm to the Reed family, so they happily let him stay, but as Rio begins to dig into Comet’s past and she discovers he was once a top level eventer, she wonders if she’s worthy of the horse she just rescued. Comet in Summer takes off right from the start and will leave you wishing you were a member of the Reed family, (and living in the gorgeous French countryside)! And for those who’d like some more eventing action, Wilkinson’s

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newest book, On the Sidelines (Full of Running #1), was released at the end of July. Brittney Joy’s “Red Rock Ranch” series consists of two books, Lucy’s Chance and Showdown. In Lucy’s Chance, we meet Lucy Rose, a sixteen year old newly-hired hand at Red Rock Ranch. She’s excited to spend the summer working with animals, riding horses, and learning the ropes of ranch life. Working alongside her is Casey, the resident cowboy heartthrob, who is both a talented rider and a true gentleman. When Lucy and Casey find a loose horse, one they name Chance, they increasingly spend more time together training Chance to be a ranch horse. This pleases everyone on the ranch, except Taylor, the beautiful, snobby rodeo queen. Jealous of the time that Lucy spends with Casey, Taylor tries her hardest to make Lucy’s life miserable. But Lucy has enough trouble on her hands despite Taylor’s antics. Chance’s abusive owner has finally tracked down the horse and wants him back. Lucy must part with him unless she’s willing to pay the $5,000 asking price. The only way she can afford that is if she and Casey win The Three Rivers Cowboy Race and the prize money that goes along with it – but of course Taylor is standing in their way. The Red Rock Ranch gang is back in book 2, Showdown, and I’m excited to see what author Brittney Joy has in store!

T R E N D report

2. 4.

E L

K C P U B U 6.

Whether you are entering the show ring, or just hacking around the barn, it is always important to look your best. From this selection of bright and beautiful belts, made from a wide variety of materials, you are sure to find the perfect piece to complete your outfit. So, “buckle up” and have an amazing ride!

1. Three Rail Woven Belt, Pink and Navy, Ariat, $ 29.99; 2. Signature Leather Reversible Belt, Pink and Orange, Asmar Equestrian, $150; 3. Derby Belt, Pink Sorbet, Hunt Club, $32; 4. Regal Reverse Belt, Ariat, $59.95; 5. Horseshoe Belt, Ovation, $26.99; 6. Derby Belt, Gold, Hunt Club, $32; 7. Leather Stitch Belt, White, Rebecca Ray, $89; 8. Three Rail Woven Belt, Ariat, $29.99 V o l . N o . 2 | 2 0 17

O U T & about

PONY POWER AT BLENHEIM EQUISPORTS: WEST COAST PONY CHALLENGE, Presented by Zone 10, USHJA PONY HUNTER DERBIES & LEADLINE

3. 1. 4.

5. 1. A Wink And A Smile dazzles with Katalina Rickard in the irons 2. Leadline and future pony rider Baye Ovszag smiles for the camera on Merlin the Magnificent with Sadie Anderson as the proud leader 3. Cupcake smiles from Shiloh Roseboom, Hannah Rohrbach, and Sadie Anderson 4. Leadline love...Toblerone with Barlow Kaplan and Merlin the Magnificent with Baye Ovszag 5. Gabrielle Sokolow pats her pony Kingston. The pair had just won the $5,000 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby, presented by Markel Insurance

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7. 8.

10.

11. 9. 6. Heavenly Patch of Blue and Shiloh Roseboom on their way to a win 7. Stella Wasserman’s Benetton and Gabrielle Sokolow’s Kingston tied for the Makoto Farm Circuit Pony Derby Awards as the large ponies with the most points 8. Congratulatory hug! 9. Capturing a moment of pony love 10. The adorable Whatdoyasay? and Sofia Langella 11. Katalina Rickard shows off her pony’s trot

Photos © Amy McCool

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The Ride of Your Life. SeCure YOur pLACe nOw in AnTiCipATiOn Of The wOrLd equeSTriAn CenTer premierinG in 2018. CuSTOm eSTATe hOmeS fOr SALe And STAbLeS fOr LeASe.

N E W product alert by Samantha Hofherr

SUGAR STARS P

ony riders (and twins!), fifteen-year-old Emma and Mackenzie Eschenbach, were scrolling through Instagram when they discovered several accounts advertising plain sugar cubes as treats for ponies. So they started thinking about how nice it would be if those plain old sugar cubes could be as cute to look at as they were for their ponies, Peachy and Pedro, to eat. The girls decided give it a try, and spiced up the look of sugar cubes by making some in the shape of a star. The stars made of sugar were a step up, but the entrepreneurs soon made them even better with some added color and flavor – apple, pomegranate, honey, peppermint, and mango – to name a few tasty options. The resulting treats were so adorable that Emma and Mackenzie founded Sugar Stars in July 2015 to bring their sweets to market! Excited about their new business, the girls converted a room in their family’s Los Altos Hills,

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“

... Emma and Mackenzie try to hand deliver as many [orders] as possible because they love to connect with their customers.”

California, home into their work and storage space. This room is where the sweet magic happens. To create the signature star shape, they fill star mold baking sheets with sugar, add natural flavoring to impart a signature taste and color, and bake them until they are firm. After cooling the treats are placed into custom, handmade Sugar Stars jars. The orders can then be shipped to their order locations,

but Emma and Mackenzie try to hand deliver as many as possible, because they love to connect with their customers. As the popularity of Sugar Stars grew, Mackenzie and Emma began to receive more and more feedback on their tasty creations. Many of their customers reported that while their horses loved the treats, they weren’t in love with putting sugar in their pockets. Clients wanted a treat that wouldn’t melt or get their clothes sticky. Determined to keep their customers happy, the girls created the Oat Pocket Treat, made from a mix of oats, flour, and molasses. This tasty mixture is molded around a mini Sugar Stars treat, and baked until firm. Now the sugar stars can ride in a pocket without making a mess, and the ponies can still enjoy the taste they love. Emma and Mackenzie like to say that “both the original Sugar Stars and the Oat Pocket Treats are made 100% by hand and with 100% passion.” Everything about their company supports that claim. Sugar Stars is a sweet company from start to finish – the owners are sweet, the treats are sweet, and supporting young entrepreneurs is always a sweet thing to do! Photos © Mackenzie Eschenbach

S T Y L E rider by Emily Pollard

REILLY GOGUL Eleven-year-old Reilly Gogul began riding almost as soon as she could sit up. Her parents, Jeff and Keeley Gogul, are the owners of Flagship, Ltd., one of Ohio’s top hunter/jumper barns, so there was always a pony available for Reilly. In fact, her first ride was on Smoke Signal, a very special pony in Flagship’s lesson program. While the Goguls continue to operate Flagship & Maypine in Cleveland, Reilly and her family recently moved to Wilmington, OH. Now, Jeff works for the Roberts at World Equestrian Center, and Reilly has the wonderful opportunity to ride and train with Patty Rogers and Tanya Truszkowski. Because both of Reilly’s parents are trainers, she received great riding instruction from her first day on a horse. Particularly influential were the lessons she received from Mindy Darst and Charlie Moorcroft, both of whom offered her enormous encouragement. Over the years, Reilly has had wonderful ponies to ride thanks to owners Emily Elek, MaryAnn Funk, Shawn Clarke, Ali Sweetnam, Lynn Jayne and Stacey Schaeffer, among many others. She is currently bringing along her first green pony project, Telynau Secret Service, and still owns her very first walk-trot pony, All That Glitters, whom the Gogul family believes is close to thirty years old!

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Photo © Grace Schinsing

Pony & Style: Describe your riding (apparel) style: Reilly Gogul: My show apparel is classic and refined. I show in Tailored Sportsman jodhpurs and Charles Ancona hunt coats. I like to wear short sleeve show shirts because it works well with the Charles Ancona cuffs. I usually finish my look with a Rebecca Ray belt, or the belt that has all my ponies’ names on it. P&S: What is your head-to-toe riding outfit?  RG: When I am showing, I’ll wear my Tailored Sportsman jodhpurs, a black or green Charles Ancona (or sometimes a navy Grand Prix) coat, my Tucci paddock boots, a Rebecca Ray belt, black SSG gloves, garters, and my hair up in a Samshield helmet. When I’m schooling, depending on the weather, I will wear my helmet with my hair up or down. I wear my Tucci boots and half-chaps, black SSG gloves, a t-shirt or long sleeve shirt, schooling pants, and a Rebecca Ray belt. P&S: Do you wear anything for good luck?  RG: Not really. I’ve had a couple of lucky things over the years, and I do have one pair of socks that I seem to do pretty well with. But other than those socks, I just put on my usual gear, and see how the day goes.

Photo © Shawn McMillen

P&S: What are your favorite equestrian brands?  RG: Without a doubt my favorite brand for hunt coats is Charles Ancona; their coats are super comfortable, and they really allow me to move my body around as I need to. I also really like my Tucci boots. I ride and show in them so much that they’ve molded to the shape of my feet over the years and are the perfect fit for me. I also have a pair of Tucci half-chaps, which are extremely comfortable and flexible as well. For show shirts, I like Kathryn Lily, Animo, and Essex. The Kathryn Lily shirts are very lightweight, so they are good for days that are going to be really hot. Animo and Essex shirts are both super comfortable to ride in. I especially like that Essex show shirts have vents, so you can really get the maximum amount of air flow when you show in the heat. I mainly wear Tailored Sportsman breeches, but I really like Animo’s schooling breeches too. Animo breeches don’t have velcro at the bottom, so they are a lot smoother under socks. But I find that Equiline, Cavalleria Toscana, Animo, and Tailored Sportsman all are great classic looking breeches. For helmets I prefer Samshield and GPA. Personally, I think that Samshields look the best in the hunter ring, so I tend to gravitate toward that style choice. I use SSG gloves right now, but I actually prefer Roeckls because of their sophisticated and sleek appearance. P&S: How do you handle high pressure situations, like riding at Pony Finals and Medal Finals? RG: I don’t do very well under pressure, especially if it’s the first time I’ve been to a certain show that takes a lot of talent to qualify for (for instance, Devon 2017). However, this is my third Pony/Medal Finals, so I’m feeling pretty chill about it.

Photo © Shawn McMillen

P&S: What are your riding goals?  RG: I’d like to ride as a professional, and perhaps become a judge one day. I hope to either take over Flagship, the barn my parents own now, or start my own farm. But for right now, I’d like to get a horse that I can move up through the Childrens and Juniors. When I am older, maybe fourteen or fifteen, I want to compete in the Jumpers.  P&S: Do you want to be a professional rider?  RG: Yes, I would love to be a professional! I think it would be particularly exciting because I love to train green ponies. P&S: Who has been the most influential in your riding career?  RG: Throughout my riding career almost everybody has given me great advice and tips that have shaped me into the rider I am today. My parents helped me get started with my riding career; Charlie Moorcroft helped me learn to deal with my mistakes; Ali Sweetnam helped me learn that messing up isn’t a big deal (she once said, “You are seriously jumping farm animals over sticks, don’t stress it so much.”); Patty Rogers and Tanya Truszkowski have helped me learn how to adjust to riding new ponies; and I can guarantee you that anybody else who has given me a lesson has told me something I didn’t know before.  P&S: What’s the one thing you never go in the ring without?   RG: Most of the time, it is a crop. But on a few ponies, such as Lands End Eros, I don’t carry one. V o l . N o . 2 | 2 0 17

P & S home by Laurie Berglie photos by James Berglie & Alli Addison

The Charming Bedrooms — OF THE —

Pony Obsessed

LIZZIE'S ROOM

GEORGIA'S ROOM

I always look forward to writing my ‘Horse & Style Home’ column as I love getting a sneak peek into stunning equestrian-inspired homes. Of course, I still wanted to be able to contribute this column for Pony & Style, but this annual edition focuses on two things: ponies and kids. And kids, typically, don’t have their own homes! But what they do have are adorable, pony décor-filled bedrooms, so I’m pleased to present the rooms of two very special young equestriennes.

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A COZY ROOM FULL OF MEMORIES & M O T I VAT I O N Outside of Cleveland, Ohio, in the picturesque Chagrin Valley lies Hemlock Lane at Valley High. This farm is owned by Derek and Rebecca Smith of Rebecca Ray Designs. We featured their sophisticated country farmhouse in our May/June issue, and we are excited to share the bedroom of their daughter, Lizzie. The moment you walk into the room, it’s clear its resident is a young, but very talented equestrian. Lizzie is a pony-obsessed fourteen year old who lives and breathes horses, and she is an absolute doll. I was fortunate enough to meet her in person when I was in the area recently, and she never once stopped smiling. The walls of Lizzie’s room are painted a muted periwinkle, and the room itself is large enough to accommodate all of Lizzie’s horse show ribbons, Breyer horses, and other sentimental trinkets. She describes her room as “cozy,” and it is just that. I can easily imagine her sitting at her desk working on school assignments, lying on the floor playing with her Breyers, or curling up on her bed with a good book, (The Eighty-Dollar Champion by Elizabeth Letts is her favorite). Speaking of the Breyers, they are some of Lizzie’s most prized possessions. “I love setting up courses and pretending I’m actually riding them in a show, and they let me always be surrounded by horses even if I’m done riding for the day,” says Lizzie. She houses them in two different barns; the red and green one is a family heirloom. It was made by her grandfather for her mom, Rebecca, many Christmases ago. The white standing stable was made for Lizzie by a wonderful family friend, Marvin Decker, who, until his recent retirement, was the owner of Ridgewood Equine Transportation.

Lizzie also cherishes her USEF Pony Finals Medallion. “I worked so hard to be able to show at Pony Finals, and it’s a great piece to remind me how lucky I am to have had such a wonderful pony to take me there.” For Lizzie, showing and winning isn’t everything. She appreciates every step of the journey, and the large quote on her wall positioned opposite her bed is the first thing she sees in the morning. “It’s a constant reminder that good sportsmanship is always the best choice. Winning the event is great. However, preparing for the event and spending that time with my horse is one of the most important things I will ever get to do.” Another storied piece is the large photo that hangs over Lizzie’s bed. It was taken by a Miami University classmate of Derek and Rebecca’s and features Bruce Davidson at Rolex, retiring the great Dr. Peaches. Interestingly, the young blond girl in the front wearing a red coat is Keeley Gogul, who is now Lizzie’s trainer! It truly is a one-of-a-kind photo the entire Smith family treasures. When asked if there were anything Lizzie would change about her room, her answer is both hilarious and true to horse-girl form. “If I could change one thing, it would be that my pony, Barney, could live in it with me! But in all seriousness, I would love to have a better view from my windows of the pastures at my farm. I love sitting and watching the horses play with each other.” Lizzie is a ray of sunshine, and her room reflects the light and happiness she radiates. “My room is covered from head to toe in horse and other animal things – pictures and memories. I am very lucky to have such a special room; I have a story for everything in here. I love my room!” V o l . N o . 2 | 2 0 17

A L I T T L E G I R L’ S C L A S S I C A L LY - S T Y L E D SANCTUARY For our next feature, we head west to Nipomo, California, to the bedroom of Georgia Addison, daughter of regular Horse & Style contributor, Alli Addison. Since Georgia is only three, I interviewed Alli, who, as Georgia’s mom, was in tune with how her daughter wanted to decorate her room. Additionally, Alli’s professional background as an interior designer and expertise as owner of Alli Addison Branding + Design definitely came in handy! While Alli, who is an equestrian herself, admits that horses “may have been forced upon” Georgia, she also believes that her little girl’s love of equines was inherited. Either way, Georgia’s natural love for horses has already helped her more than she knows. “Georgia was born with some physical developmental delays and had difficulty with her gross motor skills for years,” notes Addison. “As an infant, she was unable to sit up and had very low muscle tone. She didn’t walk until just prior to her second birthday. We worked with a child development specialist and a physical therapist twice a week for nearly two years. With every passing month, she would improve, but it was always apparent that the delays existed. However, when she would ride, it was as if all those problems and obstacles went right out the window. Her posture instantly improved. Her muscle tone immediately became stronger.” Since her time with horses proved so valuable, Georgia began taking riding lessons on her second birthday. Not long after, she competed in her first A-rated hunter/jumper show in the leadline class on a borrowed pony named Peachy Keen. “She took home the blue, as did every other child, but that didn’t faze her. She was so proud of that dang ribbon. And we got some great professional photography of her and her prized possession.” It’s no surprise then that that ribbon, plus many of her mom’s, hangs proudly behind Georgia’s bed. “When Georgia was a baby, I purchased one of those fun mylar and tissue paper garlands to hang above her bed. After Georgia won her first blue

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ribbon last year, she insisted on hanging it in her bedroom. So on the garland strand the ribbon went.” Another of Georgia’s favorite pieces in her room is actually the bed itself. Addison noted that the move from the crib to her full size antique bed was a huge deal for Georgia, instantly making her feel grown up. “The bed is also immensely sentimental. It belonged to my mom as a little girl, then was passed to me as a child, and it now belongs to Georgia. It is beautifully carved and delicate and feminine.” Her bedding boasts adorable snaffle bits, and while the style has been discontinued, it came from the Land of Nod. The bed, with its fun, whimsical spread and horse show ribbons behind it, anchors the room, giving it a soft, classic feel so perfect for sweet Georgia. Addison says that designing Georgia’s room was relatively easy. As a designer, she is a firm believer in consistency, and Georgia’s room flows cohesively with the rest of their home. It’s painted the same taupe grey color found throughout the house, and it has the same dark hickory flooring, white bold trim, base board, crown molding, and doors. “Because this room is a corner space, she has a lot of natural light. And the lucky girl also got a decent sized walk-in closet. My inner twelve-year-old felt insanely jealous.” While Georgia’s room is becoming more horsey every day, it does not have an overall theme. And Addison likes it that way. “I believe rooms and spaces and homes should constantly evolve. This evolution makes a space personal. I have no regrets about the design of Georgia’s room, just plans to help it evolve and grow with her. I would like to add more art as the years pass by. And more vintage pieces.” Georgia’s perfect day begins and ends with horses. When she’s not outside on her family’s ranch learning to ride her pony, Kevin, a Section B dappled grey Welsh gelding, she’s in her room playing with her equestrian Götz doll. Thanks to her mom’s excellent eye for design, Georgia’s room is a picture-perfect sanctuary for a delightful pony girl.

SirichaĂŻ'17

O N the cover by Emily Pollard

Pony & Style’s

Cover Photo Contest summer LI ALE XA DIG NEL 10 THI N GS:

2 017

UP RT: BUCKLE TREND REPO

Pony & Style’sntest

Cover Photo Co

R ATO R S B O O K I L LU S T REN’S HORSE SON RIAN: CHILD AC H E L P E T E R AN EQUES T THE LENS: R D N I C U R AT E D BY H E B • RBO ER: MEET TU PONY CORN

It is so cliché to begin a photo contest article with the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words,” but it is so true!

publishing, there are many times when the team has a story in hand that is compelling, well written and relevant...but the pictures are bad. So it gets pulled. And there are many times when an article’s story is so-so, but the pictures are incredible! But with some editing, we run it because in the publishing world, and in the greater world of social media and advertising, the pictures tell the story. So in crafting this second annual Pony & Style as an homage to the up and coming talented young equestrians in the industry, it is only fitting that the cover story is about photographers. In a world that is seemingly less and less focused on words, photographers control the narrative, and these young artists know how to tell a story. The use of angle,

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light, focus and exposure in their pictures is exceptional, and would lead anyone to believe that they have been practicing their art for far longer than they have been walking. While Pony & Style received so many wonderful photo submissions from all over the world, it was necessary (and so difficult!) to pick five finalists and one winner. It is with great pleasure and excitement, that we present these young photographers’ work and biographies. Each artist has such a sweet story about what led them to fall in love with horses and photography, and each tale is a little different. But they all have one thing in common – that this article will not be the last time their pictures are featured in print, because each one of them is destined for great things! Pony & Style just knows it.

WINNER

Georgia

Quackenbos Age: 15 • From: Sharon, Vermont

“I did leadline with my first pony, Missy, when I was three years old, and then competed in Pony Hunters and Equitation with my medium pony, Pennywhistle. I’m fifteen now, and I have a Children’s Hunter called Boo. During a stay in Wellington, Florida, I became interested in capturing images of the extraordinary equine athletes competing there. Since then, I have focused on expanding my knowledge base – taking classes, learning digital and classic photography techniques, and experimenting with different equipment. But no matter how much I learn academically, my first priority is always to simply capture the natural beauty of my subjects, the horses!”

FINALIST

Rachel

Peterson

Age: 17 • From: Novato, California

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“When I was ten, I had my first (of many) informal photography lessons taught by my older brother. Several months after that, my parents signed me up for my first horseback riding lesson. I quickly became equally enthralled with both activities. What draws me to photography is that it allows me to see the world in a different way. It teaches me that everything can be extraordinary as long as you see it with the right perspective, or view it from a fresh angle. Horseback riding captivates me because of the awe of being able to work alongside an animal with such incredible presence. The more I fell in love with horses, the more they became my photography subject of choice. Capturing the spirit of horses became the focus of my art because it is such a great challenge. Through my pictures, I want to show their wonderfully juxtaposed power and gentleness, elegance and athleticism. I want to take a photograph that makes a person who doesn’t know horses the way I do, fall in love with them the way I did.”

FINALIST

Daisy

Cottle-Bailey Age: 16 • From: England

“I have been riding horses ever since my parents encouraged me to start when I was five years old. When I was eleven, I started riding and competing on horses that the stable would let me borrow. My first pony was just amazing and would do anything for me – I taught her to jump a few small jumps and do a few dressage moves – which really boosted my confidence. Then, my mum took me on a beach ride, and riding in Italy in the mountains, which I really enjoyed. The freedom of just being with the horses in such a beautiful area is so wonderful. I love horseback riding, it is my escape from everything else and I love the thrill and the freedom of it. Later on, I started taking care of a horse at a private yard that I really fell in love with. This was when I grew interested in photography, as I wanted to express the bond I had with this horse through photos. Now I love horses and photography about equally!”

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FINALIST

Avery

Glynn

Age: 12 â&#x20AC;˘ From: Petaluma, California â&#x20AC;&#x153;I live in Petaluma, California, and have been riding for eight years with Sonoma Valley Stables. I currently show in the junior hunters on two lovely horses, Back in Business and Snap Chat, and I also show in the Equitation and Jumpers aboard Cocon 4. I have loved riding since I was a little girl, and have loved taking pictures just about as long as that. In 2016, I broke my collarbone and could not ride for several weeks. While I was healing, I was desperate for other activities I could do around my horses. So I took out my camera and started snapping pictures. This was when I really fell in love with photography as an art form. Ever since, I have been working diligently to improve my eye and my equipment. I love seeing the final pictures, but I really love the fun I have taking the pictures of my friends and their horses and ponies!â&#x20AC;?

FINALIST

Lisa

Wolkenhauer Age: 16 • From: Northern Germany “I am sixteen years old and live in Hanover, a city in Northern Germany. Horses have been a big part of my life ever since I was a little girl, and I started riding as soon as I was able. Now, I go riding once a week at a riding stable near my home. It was at that stable that I found my best friend and soulmate in a black New Forest Pony named Blacky (not the most creative name, I know!). Sadly, he is ill, which means I can’t ride him anymore. But we try to do other stuff together, like fun hand walks and grazing time, so that he doesn’t get bored. I got my first camera when I was six years old. Since then, I have taken my camera with me wherever I go. Often I sit in the fields and photograph the horses from the stable that are out in pasture, and of course, I am always taking pictures of Blacky. I just love how I can take pictures at the stable and combine the two things I love so much: horses and photography!” V o l . N o . 2 | 2 0 17

FINALIST

Skyler

Allen

Age: 14 • From: Roosevelt, California

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“I have loved riding my entire life. I started riding horses when I was three years old, and I got my first pony when I was four. I competed in the Pony Hunters in 2014, qualified for Pony Finals, and went on to receive Reserve Champion in the NorCal Pony Finals. I also find it fun to earn awards at the end of the show season in the Pony Equitation and Large Pony Hunters in NorCal and PCHA. I now compete at the 3'6" Equitation level and the 3'6" Small Junior Hunters with my horse Jolie Soleil. I first fell in love with photography when a friend asked me to take pictures of her at a competition. It was so much fun to find the best shot, and then she and I had so much fun looking at all the pictures afterward. After that, I started taking pictures of the pony rings, and now I take pictures whenever I can. For me, a show is not complete unless I have had the chance to shoot some pictures!”

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

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R I D E R spotlight by Pam Maley photos by Javi Varela

ALE X A L EONG A fast-rising star in the horse show universe, 12-year-old Alexa Leong has logged an amazing list of successes. This young honor-roll student has already learned to navigate the very difficult path to that successful balance between school work and an active show schedule.

nder the guidance of trainer Jill Humphrey, she has earned accolades both in equitation and jumping, ending an extraordinary 2016 at the top of the standings for the USHJA Hunter Equitation 14 and Under. In May of 2017, US Equestrian named Alexa, along with three other young athletes, to the U.S. Children’s Rider Team for FEI Nations Cup™ CSIOJCh Langley, May 31 – June 4, in Langley, British Columbia. This is a newly added FEI event to be held in conjunction with the FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO4* at Thunderbird Show Park. She is also the top qualifying rider for the Zone 10 Team to compete in the inaugural FEI North America Child Jumper Championships in July in Saugerties, New York. And with her pony Candy Crush, she has qualified for the U.S. Pony Finals in August, at

Alexa and Candy Crush

the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Her ponies Candy Crush and Chiccobello are German Riding Ponies, a breed first brought to the U.S. by her trainer’s sister, Jan Humphrey, in 2014. Alexa was one of the first diminutive equestrians to be chosen by the Humphreys to ride and own one, and she has piloted both of them to significant wins. Already aware of giving back, our young rider is an ambassador for JustWorld International, an organization that works through the international equestrian community to support education, nutrition, health and hygiene, and cultural development programs for impoverished children in Cambodia, Guatemala, and Honduras. Pony & Style: You’re twelve years old, right? Can you tell us a little

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about your family? Are you the only one that rides? Alexa Leong: Yes, I’m twelve years old, and I live with mom and dad, and my older brother, Hunter, who’s sixteen. Right now, I’m the only member of the family riding. P&S: How did you get started riding? AL: My brother and I started riding as a summer hobby sport six years ago, and that led to just me showing. P&S: Who is your trainer, and when did you start working with him/her? Can you tell us a little about your training? AL: My trainer is Jill Humphrey since the beginning. I first had a few lessons trotting on the lunge line and then

started cantering. I started small jumps within the first six months. Now I hack and school all of my horses and ponies almost every day except Mondays. I have lessons alternating horses and ponies from Wednesdays to Sundays also. Lessons involve flat work and jumping. P&S: We’d like to know about your horses and ponies – who they are, and a little about each one. AL: I currently have five ponies: Chiccobello is my large 10-year-old German Riding Pony gelding who was first over fences and third overall at Pony Finals in 2014. Final Touch is my green 6-year-old large Welsh pony that is qualified for Pony Finals in 2017. Mapleside Penelope is my 9-year-old medium pony mare who just had a foal, Bella. Once Bella’s weaned from mom, Penelope will be back showing. Candy Crush is my 9-year-old German Riding Pony that I will be riding at Pony Finals.

I have three horses: Hertogin Ter Drie Leien is my jumper who has taken me from the 2016 Ariat Sonoma Show Circuit Champion Children’s Jumper, NorCal Children’s Jumper Champion, PCHA Reserve year-end Champion, to being my partner in our selection for the inaugural FEI Nations Cup Child Rider representing the USA in Langley, Canada earlier this month. Cintas is my Equitation horse that has been my partner in winning the NorCal 14 and Under Championship, PCHA 11 and Under Championship, USHJA Zone 10 Horse of the Year for 14 and Under Equitation, and Reserve Champion in the Pickwick Medal Finals. Our first medal final season last year was very successful, taking me through PCHA 14 and Under, CPHA 14 and Under, Onondarka, and Maclay Regionals. Bocelli is my newest horse, recently imported from Europe, that I am training for Equitation.

P&S: What do you like most about showing and competing? What are some of your favorite shows? AL: What I like about showing and competing at shows, is the partnership between the horse and rider working together. I like the competition that gets me motivated to work harder. I have so much fun at shows with friends, and competing. My favorite show is The Oaks in San Juan Capistrano. I also like Sonoma Horse Park, Hits Coachella, Kentucky Horse Park, and Thunderbird. P&S: How do you balance your school work with your very busy riding and show schedule? AL: I am an honor roll student at my school and it is very hard balancing school and riding by missing so many days. Before I take off to a horse show, I get the notes, homework, or anything else, from the days I will be gone. I

Alexa and Candy Crush at Sonoma Horse Park

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example, volleyball, wake surfing, snow skiing, going out to the movies, and hanging out with friends and family. P&S: You’re an ambassador for JustWorld. Can you tell us a little about what that means to you?

Victory gallop!

work on them at the show and turn them in the next day I’m at school. P&S: What are some of your favorite things to do when not riding or showing? AL: When I’m not riding, my favorite thing to do is any fun activity. For

AL: Being an ambassador for JustWorld means inspiring other people and helping poor children get what they need. I love the program about giving thousands of children a better living every day. I think all children should live the life they deserve. I want to raise awareness for JustWorld among my friends, the horse shows, and the media. I support riders who keep riding for a cause. P&S: What advice would you give to other young girls who are striving for success in the show world? AL: Advice I would give to younger riders is never give up on the rider you want to become.Your dream could be as big as wanting to be

a professional rider and trainer, to compete in medal finals, International Hunter Derbies, the World Cup™, or the Olympics. But it sure takes practice to get there, by working and working at it. It also takes motivation and determination. Never give up on your dream, and practice as much as possible. Remember practice does not make perfect, only perfect practice makes perfect. P&S: Goals for 2017 and 2018? AL: My goal for 2017 and 2018 is hopefully getting in the Top 10 at Pony Finals, jumping 1.30m with my jumper, and going to indoors for Maclay Nationals, USEF Jumping Seat Medal, and WIHS (Washington International Horse Show). Pony & Style salutes Alexa on pursuing her dream. We admire the passion, dedication, maturity, and pure hard work that it takes, and we look forward to watching her star continue to rise.

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L I F E of barbe by Jana Cohen Barbe

A PONY IS MY

Spirit Animal Ponies are complicated little beings. They are capable of great kindness, patience and affection. They can also be stubborn little beasts who will skid to a stop before a jump, yank their heads down, and deposit your beloved child on his or her bottom. And to be clear, that’s all in the same day. Ponies are four legged dichotomies. They are my “spirit animal” as I am also a study in contrasts. Aren’t we all?

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think that ponies embody the best and the worst in us. We have, at our farm, our younger daughter’s small and medium ponies, Fizz and Pippin. They are 26 and 24 years old, respectively. Of course they are little white ponies and of course they are adorable. They taught our daughter to ride. They jumped her out of trouble more times than I can count; and she also fell off them more times than I can count. Her trainer used to say that “it isn’t a horse show until Rachel falls off in the warm-up ring.”

“

So I say, get in touch with and embrace your inner pony. Appreciate your cute and lovable qualities. And value your crankiness. It balances us to have such differences.” Fizz was the best small pony ever. I know everyone says that about their small pony but in this case, it is true. When Rachel was tiny and a complete beginner, he protected her: he held his head high to force her back into the saddle, he politely stopped when she became loose in the tack, and he responded correctly to verbal commands from the trainer to trot, to canter, to walk. To this day, he plays “follow the leader” – a small child can ride him without a leadline and he will simply follow the adult in the ring. Once when he was charged by a huge runaway mare in a warm-up ring, while Rachel was on him, he held his ground and caused the 18-hand mare to spin away. We called him “Grandpa Fizz” because he was so protective. But then, Rachel learned to ride, and Fizz was done baby-sitting. If she wanted to make it down the line in the correct strides, she had to ask for it and ride. Once, when she asked too aggressively, he left two strides out in the line. That’s right, he left out two strides. If she didn’t ask him to jump and support him at the jump, he didn’t jump. The “school master” became the disciplinarian and boy did Rachel learn how to ride in a hurry. One pony; two completely different personalities.

Pippin, the medium pony, could jump the moon. The first jump Rachel ever jumped on him was a 3'6" oxer. He was, perhaps, the worst mover in the history of ponies but he could jump a junior hunter course. He also had the proverbial “spook eye.” He jumped so well because he was determined never, ever to touch a jump, but he also spooked whenever a horse came near him in the warm-up ring. And he had this spin that could dislodge a child in a heartbeat. There was so much talent in these ponies and they gave our daughter so much joy, but Fizz and Pippin were also opinionated, formidable professionals who expected much of Rachel and held her accountable when she did not perform. Each was (and is) an individual with preferences, likes, dislikes and moods. And guess what? So am I. And so is just about everyone else I know. We all have great moments of fortitude, resilience and kindness. We also have limits to our patience, expectations we want met, fears and anxieties we want resolved, and times when we just want to stop doing our jobs and run home like a pony galloping to the barn. I guess that is why ponies are my “spirit animal,” because they embody my inner conflicts and attitudes. I have never believed in that whole “sugar and spice and everything nice” thing. I am not all sweetness and light. There are days when I want to spin or stop-out at a jump and flip someone over my head. I bet you feel that way too some days. We are each capable of great goodness and kindness but sometimes you just want to let loose a buck to tell the world you are there and you are not to be trifled with. And I think that’s just fine. So I say, get in touch with and embrace your inner pony. Appreciate your cute and lovable qualities. And value your crankiness. It balances us to have such differences. It allows us to learn and to teach. It shows that we are true to ourselves and to our inner beasts – that we are real and authentic. Besides, no one can be cute and lovable all of the time.

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.

Pippin (L) & Fizz (R), photo © Roy Barbe; Portrait of Jana Barbe, photo © Jeff Rogers

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S T Y L E profiles by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

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Pony Grind It takes true grit to be a rider. Pony riders spend their days and nights working hard to achieve their goals, and love spending all their time at the stable. Passion is a full time gig for these young equestrians, which is why we’ve take on the job of styling their lives – from school to lesson to horse show – so they are looking the part as they learn to do their best.

The Trend Setter Erin Junior Show Shirt, Kingsland, $50 YR8 Sparkle Riding Helmet, Charles Owen, $210 Ambra Girl’s Competition Jacket, Equiline, $212 Heritage Elite Knee Patch Breeches, Ariat, $90 Children’s Elastic Web Belt, Gucci, $185 Donatello Junior Field Boot, Tredstep, $242

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Lesson Day Kids Suede II Half Chaps, Dublin, $45 Bindia Belt, Equine Couture, $13 Girls Denim Breech, Ariat, $90 Moxie Applique Polo Shirt, Joules, $30 Melina Cap, Horze, $10 Devon III Zip Paddock Boot, Ariat, $99

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P O N Y corner by Pam Maley

TURBO

aka “THAT'S FUNNY”

MENAI’S MISTER MOST YN

*FRIAR’S SION

FUNNY FACE SMOKE

FRECKLE FACE SMOKE

MENAI MARY ANN

REMINIC

: o b r u T t e e M lous Funny u b a F A d n e i r F d e Fac

On March 29, 2012, a funny little face emerged, along with two tiny feet, “at the very civilized hour of 9:00 pm,” says Jeanette Gilbert of Jaz Creek, Inc. A boutique breeding and training facility in Petaluma, California, Jaz Creek sits in the heart of Sonoma County wine country, and specializes in breeding, training, competing and selling show jumpers. As head trainer and farm manager, Jeanette focuses on showing the horses bred by Jaz Creek, Inc.

“I decided that I wanted to make a pony,” Gilbert explained. “I had never had one as a kid, so this is my first pony.” She bred her husband’s reining mare, Funny Face Smoke, to the Champion Welsh pony Menai’s Mister Mostyn, and got a colt whose big white face and impish manner immediately captured her heart.

She put a large horse ball in the paddock with them, and Turbo would get the ball and start ‘soccer games,’ kicking it back and forth and getting the others to do the same. He loves to play in the water, and loves to think up tricks. He’s a great entertainer, smart and goofy. He’s not at all like the stereotype we hear of the typical naughty pony, she says. He’s clever, but not naughty.

About his personality, Gilbert says, “I like to say he was born broke. From day one, he was the smartest, best behaved pony imaginable. He was born knowing how to do everything; he knew what his job was going to be. He’s always been great with kids.”

Turbo became great friends with Gilbert’s show jumper Ed. “Turbo has half-blue eyes, and Ed also has a blue eye, and they bonded with each other over their bright colors,” she says. “They both know they’re special.”

When Turbo, aka “That’s Funny,” was growing up, she had him out in a paddock with two other young horses, and she loved watching him as he figured out how to get them to play with him.

In May of this year, at Sonoma Horse Park, he entered his first show, piloted by a very cute pony rider named Charlotte Collins, who trains with Meredith Herman at Burgundy Farms. He did his

job well, earning Reserve Champion, to the delight of all of his people. While at Devon, Gilbert met Emily Elek of Stonewall Ponies, in Ixonia, Wisconsin. Mutual friends had recommended Elek, who has built a reputation for developing successful ponies. Elek believes that the most important thing for ponies is to have a good brain, a good canter, and a good jump. Clearly, Turbo possesses those qualities in abundance. Pony & Style spoke to Gilbert on the day before Turbo was due to ship to Elek’s farm. The goal is to prepare him to qualify for the medium greens at Pony Finals in 2018. “Emily will pick a rider for him,” says Gilbert. “My plan is to lease him, so he’ll always come home. And he’ll be ready when I have a kid to ride him.”

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feature by Jackie McFarland & Nina Vogel photos by Amy McCool

GET TO KNOW

Photo ÂŠ Shawn McMillen

E V E LY N WA L K E R

STELLA WA S S E R M A N

ISABELLA GRIFFIN

AVA PECK

Four 2017 Pony Finals Competitors Coming from California With the 2017 USEF Pony Finals upon us, pony riders from all over the country have landed in Lexington, Kentucky to strut their stuff. West Coast competitors will make the cross-country trip with their most prized ponies to compete and meet up with fellow pony riders from around the nation. One pristine location where California kids prepared for the pressure of this annual event is in the arenas and on the grass fields at Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano. A hotspot for pony activity, Blenheim EquiSports hosted an inaugural circuit

of USHJA Pony Hunter Derbies, as well as the West Coast Pony Challenge, presented by USHJA Zone 10. Pony & Style caught up with some pony riders who will be venturing east from the west. All four girls have made the Pony Finals journey before, so we asked each competitor what they like about coming to Pony Finals, plus what they think about on course and how they handle nerves. Their answers were similar yet different, but all were unanimous about their love for Pony Finals! V o l . N o . 2 | 2 0 17

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Evelyn Walker with Captain Crunch and trainer Michael Savage

E V E LY N WA L K E R AGE: 10 • GOING INTO: 5th grade TRAINER: Michael Savage

This is her 3rd time at PF. FAVORITE PART OF PF:

and friends!

The Kentucky bluegrass fields

My palms sweat! I go over the course with detailed plans about what I’m going to do. I take a deep breath as I walk in, and I scan the arena and guide my pony on a specific route to the first jump. I also have to tell myself to breathe. WHEN NERVOUS:

To take each jump as it comes and look to what’s ahead. Even if you make a mistake, that jump is over, so think about what you can do to make the next jump its best. ALWAYS REMEMBERS:

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A Rancho Santa Fe, CA, native, Evelyn Walker shined at Pony Finals in 2016 with her pony Royal Moment. She’s back this season aboard Captain Crunch and Sir Lukas. She may also be competing on another small pony named Delphine, who is owned by Walker’s trainer Michael Savage. Walker and Captain Crunch were crowned Overall Grand Champions in the 2017 West Coast Pony Challenge this summer. She was also reserve champion in the regular small pony hunter division of the Challenge with Sir Lukas. Walker cherishes her memories of taking the ponies out onto the vast grass fields with friends from all over the country, and she looks forward to another reunion this year.

S T E L L A WA S S E R M A N AGE: 12 (shows as 11) â&#x20AC;˘ GOING INTO: 7th grade TRAINER: Archie Cox and Karli Postel of Brookway Stables

This is her 2nd time at PF. FAVORITE PART OF PF:

Friends and fun!

I take deep breaths and visualize the course. WHEN NERVOUS:

ALWAYS REMEMBERS:

To eat for good energy.

Starting with smalls and now on larges, Stella Wasserman of Beverly Hills, CA, has had a successful season showing her ponies Benetton and Spellbound. Not only did she and Spellbound earn champion honors at Devon, but after a win and a second place in two pony derbies, the gorgeous Benetton was awarded a Makoto Farm Circuit Award for tying as the large pony who earned the most points over the course of the derby circuit. Wasserman also piloted Benetton to the reserve championship in the large pony division of the West Coast Pony Challenge.

Stella Wasserman and Benetton

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ISABELLA GRIFFIN AGE: 12 • GOING INTO: 7th grade TRAINER: Elizabeth Reilly of Makoto Farms

This is her 3rd time at PF. FAVORITE PART OF PF:

and sportsmanship!

Friends, fun

It’s not all about winning everything, just go and have fun! WHEN NERVOUS:

How lucky I am to be able to ride and how much fun it is. ALWAYS REMEMBERS:

Griffin hails from Huntsville, AL, where she will begin seventh grade in a few months. She spent her summer in California, though, riding with Liz Reilly and Chris Iwasaki of Makoto Farm. Griffin piloted three ponies in the $5,000 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby that wrapped up the Blenheim EquiSports circuit and was uniquely presented by Markel Insurance. She brought her medium pony Happily Ever After to Pony Finals this year. She is also riding a medium green pony called Vermont Golden Graham. Owned by Dr. Piper Klemm, “Crackers” is a brave, trusty partner with a funny personality. Griffin explained that he loves snow cones when he doesn’t have his game face on in the ring.

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Ava Peck and Persephone

AVA P E C K AGE: 14 • GOING INTO: 9th grade TRAINER: Elizabeth Reilly of Makoto Farms

This is her 2nd time at PF. FAVORITE PART OF PF:

her pony friends!

Hanging out with all

Takes deep breaths and doubles her concentration. WHEN NERVOUS:

To keep her focus on the ring. And to balance school and riding (except in the summer!) ALWAYS REMEMBERS:

Ava Peck of Topanga, CA, added many miles in the show ring to her resume this year as an avid pony rider at the Blenheim EquiSports series. Participating in the inaugural season of USHJA Pony Hunter Derbies in California, Peck emerged with top-ten finishes in three of the four events. She rode several different ponies, two of whom she plans to show in Kentucky: Headlines and Persephone. Both are large ponies, but Persephone is a green. As Peck’s friend and barn mate, accomplished rider Augusta Iwasaki took over the ride on the pony for the West Coast Pony Challenge. The duo won the Overall Reserve Grand Championship in the greens, as well as the large green pony division championship.

Ava Peck and Headlines

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C U R A T E D by an equestrian by Laurie Berglie photos by James Berglie & Taylor Rea

Remembering Our Favorite Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Horse Book Illustrators

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I firmly believe that we are our truest selves when we are children. It is in our youth that our core likes, loves, and passions are born. For me, I’ve always been that crazy horse girl, but I’ve also always been a bookworm. Combine the two, and I was easily entertained for hours on end. For this installment of ‘Curated by an Equestrian,’ I will be showcasing the illustrators of some of my favorite childhood horse books: C.W. Anderson, Wesley Dennis, and Milton Menasco.

C . W. A N D E R S O N Clarence William Anderson (1891 – 1971), was born in Wahoo, Nebraska, and known professionally as C.W. Anderson. As a child, he loved horses and would be found drawing them, taking a special interest in their conformation and bone structure. The black and white illustrations that eventually accompanied his books have long been praised for their genuine and lifelike nature. Anderson’s career as an artist spanned decades as he wrote and illustrated more than thirty-five books. While Anderson’s tales of fictional fellow young riders initially drew me in, it was the beautiful horse illustrations adorning the pages that kept me coming back again and again.

My first love, therefore, was Blaze, the handsome wonder pony of the Billy and Blaze series. My initial exposure to this series came through my elementary school library where they had a single copy of Blaze and the Forest Fire. We had library once a week, so I could check out Blaze for a weeklong period before having to return it. It will come as no surprise that, like any horse girl, I would return the book and then turn around and immediately check it back out! Finally, when the librarian realized that I was basically hijacking this book, she told me I had to, “Take a break from it so other students could have a chance to read it.” Just like that, I was banned from my favorite book!

Fast-forward about ten years when my younger sister was attending the same elementary school. The library was switching out inventory and having a book sale, so my mom, who was picking up my sister from school, saw Blaze and the Forest Fire and jumped on it! That cherished copy, which she purchased for just ten cents, is now one of my all-time favorite prized possessions. It was meant to be. Since then, I have felt a kinship with author and illustrator Anderson, and have not only collected his vintage children’s books, but some of his equine prints as well. As for Billy and Blaze, I am the proud owner of all but one in this eleven-book series. (Blaze and the Gypsies still eludes me)!

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WESLEY DENNIS We started reading full-length books in school when I was in the fourth grade. I was over-the-moon when my teacher handed out copies of Charlotte’s Web (farm animals!), so you can imagine my uncontrollable delight when our next book was Marguerite Henry’s Misty of Chincoteague. I could not believe my luck and even asked my teacher, “We’re reading a book about a horse?” The entire class knew of my enormous equine obsession, so she smiled back and replied, “We are. I knew you’d be excited!” While the fascinating story of Paul and Maureen Beebe and their beloved Misty left me daydreaming of Pony Penning Day and the Eastern Shore, Dennis’ beautiful illustrations throughout the book added to its vast charm and appeal.

had just finished writing Justin Morgan Had a Horse and wanted the best horse artist in the world to illustrate it. So I went to the library, studied the horse books, and immediately fell in love with the work of Will James and Wesley Dennis. When I found out that Will James was dead, I sent my manuscript to Wesley Dennis.” Dennis and Henry ended up working together on 15 books over a 20 year period. Prior to his death in 1966, Dennis had illustrated more than 150 books including Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty and John Steinbeck’s The Red Pony.

After the First World War, Menasco moved to Kentucky to devote himself entirely to his true love, horse portraiture. He and his wife purchased a farm where an old brick house built in the 18th century served as his studio for many years. Menasco began to make a name for himself as an equestrian artist, and he had numerous clients including, John Hay Whitney, Isabel Dodge Sloane, President Ronald Reagan, Allaire du Pont, Arthur B. Hancock, Jr., Lucille Markey, and the Chenery family, for whom he painted Secretariat. While he was best known for his horse portraiture, he was also recognized as the illustrator of four books in “The Black Stallion” series. This series, published by Random House, released its first book in 1941. Menasco illustrated, including the covers: Son of the Black Stallion, The Black Stallion and Satan, The Black Stallion’s Filly, and The Blood Bay Colt. Each book is filled with a variety of illustrations throughout. The Black Stallion’s Filly, in particular, has a very simple and endearing drawing at the beginning of each chapter.

“Where would the horse-crazy kids of the world have been without these enchanting tales, classically illustrated by some of the most talented equestrian artists of the 20th century? I honestly can’t imagine my childhood without Blaze, Misty, and the Black Stallion.”

John Wesley Dennis was born in Falmouth, Massachusetts, in 1903. He and his brother, Morgan, grew up on a farm on Cape Cod where they both enjoyed art and spent their days drawing horses, dogs, and other farm animals. By the age of 17, Dennis had failed the US Naval Academy entrance exam and dropped out of high school. He then went to Boston where his brother, who was working as a newspaper illustrator with the Boston Herald, helped him find employment as an illustrator as well. Dennis remembers that he had never intended to become an artist; it was actually his brother who encouraged him to try and make a living drawing horses. Dennis began by sketching racehorses, and that eventually led to commissioned work. Not long after, he flew to France to study with artist Lowes Dalbiac Luard, who was an expert in horse anatomy.

In 1941, Dennis published his first horse book, Flip, and those illustrations attracted the attention of author Marguerite Henry. She later wrote, “I

M I LTO N M E N A S C O If Milton Menasco sounds familiar, it’s because Horse & Style’s own Alli Addison is his great-grandniece, and through our magazine and her fantastic Instagram account (@miltonmenasco), she has brought her great uncle’s work back to life. Menasco was born in 1890 in Los Angeles, and began his career as an artist in Hollywood creating movie posters. He was later commissioned to do mural paintings at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco for the World’s Fair in 1915. By 1925, Menasco found himself in New York City as the art director of a film making company.

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I discovered the Black Stallion series in middle school, and was completely enamored by Menasco’s drawings and his ability to capture the dynamic, rugged beauty of this wild animal. Where would the horse-crazy kids of the world have been without these enchanting tales, classically illustrated by some of the most talented equestrian artists of the 20th century? I honestly can’t imagine my childhood without Blaze, Misty, and the Black Stallion. Not only did these stories teach me valuable lessons about life, horses, and our place in their world, but they have thoroughly enriched my memories of my youth. And now, even though adolescence has long since passed, I keep these stories, those lessons, and the work of Anderson, Dennis, and Menasco with me.

Misty of Chincoteague, illustrations by Wesley Dennis The Black Stallionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Filly, illustrations by Milton Menasco

O U T & about

H I T S C H I C AG O AT B A L M O R A L PA R K S H OW P L AC E S E R I E S – B A L M O R A L PA R K , I L

2. 6.

1. Olivia Markman and Glynhafan Red Kestral en route to 1st place in the $2,500 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby 2. The Short Stirrup Hunter Classic results: 1st place goes to Samantha Michael and Paint Me A Picture, Jackie Stary and Blue James Blue take 2nd, and Sarah Stary and Alastair take 3rd 3. A first pony ride in the Purina Kids Zone on Grand Re-Opening Day of Balmoral Park at HITS Chicago 4. The Horseless Horse Show attracted an enthusiastic field of entries on Grand Re-Opening Day 5. Every Pony deserves three girls to call his own 6. Britta Stoeckel and Jessandi Famous Amos place 2nd in the $2,500 USHJA Pony Hunter Derby

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O U T & about

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

5. 1. Ines Matitia aboard Toy Soldier winning the championship in Walk Trot Equitation 2. Emilia Richard on Fairytales wins Small Pony Hunter Champion and Best Child Rider on a Pony 3. Johanna Bremberg with her daughter and future grand prix rider, Lila, on Holly 4. Grace Stenbeck-Werner and Polly Pocket wait to be pinned 5. Three’s Company 6. Reilly Robertson ready for the show ring!

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B E H I N D the lens

Rachel Peterson Rachel was ten when her brother introduced her to the world of photography. One lucky day, he allowed her to use his brand new DSLR Camera with the simple instructions to “photograph anything you find beautiful.” From then on, he inspired her to study the art. After he finally asked for his camera back, she dug up and dusted off her bright pink, point-and-shoot Canon, and kept at it. Dabbling in photography quickly turned into her passion, and really took hold after her move to Novato, California where she began riding, and photographing, horses. After her first ride on her camp horse, Cowboy, Rachel was hooked on all things equestrian. Not yet able to drive, Rachel would wake her mother up at five in the morning, begging her to drive her around the backroads of Nicasio and Petaluma, in search of the perfect shot that would capture pasture horses dusted in the golden shimmer of morning sun. By the time Rachel was thirteen, she began riding horses competitively, and became awestruck by the whole new equestrian world of Sonoma Horse Park. At the show grounds she found stunning horses, riders, and jumps – all begging to be documented by photo. As her passion for photography grew, so did public interest in her work. Requests for her photography began rolling in from people all over Marin County. At fourteen, her work was being recognized by the broader horse community, and brands such as Ariat started using her photos. This recognition, her love for the art, and the support from her family and friends, are the reasons she plans to pursue photography in college, with the hope of turning her passion into a career.

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C A N you stand it?

HORSE

POWER Even after a long day at the barn, it is easy to miss your pony when you finally have to leave. But with this German-made children’s miniFerrari F40, powered by a real 80cc Honda engine, you can still play with some serious horse power once you get home. So buckle up in this showstopper, and enjoy your ride!

Children’s mini-Ferrari F40, $25,000

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Best of Luck

to all competitors at the US Pony Finals

world equestrian center Be sure to visit the WEC/Chagrin Saddlery Mobile Boutique.

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Photo: Third Shutter from the Sun

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