Pony & Style Magazine Summer 2016

summer CYSI: BEST

IN

BREYER

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10 T H I N G S : L U K E J E N S E N

Pony Passion Sofia Roberts

A PONY MOM’S SURVIVAL GUIDE

FOR

PONY FINALS

TREND REPORT: POLISHED PONY • RIDER SPOTLIGHT: AVERY GLYNN

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CONTENTS © 2016 HORSE & STYLE MAGAZINE

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

Sarah Appel sarah@horseandstylemag.com

ED ITOR

Emily Pollard ART DIRECTOR

Danielle Demers ED ITORIAL CON S ULTA NT

Jackie McFarland INT ERN

Samantha Hofherr ADVERT ISIN G & SA LES

Katie Appel & Vilia Lerner katie@horseandstylemag.com vilia@horseandstylemag.com

COP YED ITOR

Pam Maley

32 •

O N TH E C O V E R Pony Passion: Sofia Roberts

38 •

S T Y L E F E AT U R E Pony Fashion

OUT & ABOUT Pony Palooza at Blenheim EquiSports

42 •

TRAINER SPOTLIGHT Patty Rogers

12 •

TREND REPORT Polished Pony

46 •

14 •

STYLE RIDER Zoe Joaquin

LIFE O F BARBE A Pony Mom’s Survival Guide for Pony Finals

48 •

16 •

BEHIND TH E SEAMS Kathryn Lily

S T YLE PROFILES A Pop of Pony

50 •

19 •

F E AT U R E The Best of Children’s Pony & Horse Books

PONY CORNER What’s in a Name?

58 •

BEHIND TH E LENS Shawn McMillen

22 •

RIDER SPOTLIGHT Avery Glynn

60 •

CYSI Best in Breyer

26 •

F E AT U R E Dynamite Dynamics

61 •

BUSINESS LISTINGS

7 •

10 T H I N G S Luke Jensen

8 •

OUT & ABOUT Pony Classic Collection from Sonoma Horse Park

10 •

CONT RIB UTO RS

Laurie Berglie, Alli Addison, Jana Cohen Barbe, Jackie McFarland, Pam Maley, Erinn Lew, Samantha Hofherr, Terri Roberson, Psy.D., Dana Miller PHOTOGRAPH ER S

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Tracy Emanuel Photography, Shawn McMillen, Taylor Rea, Amy McCool,

Alicia Cervenka, Alden Corrigan Media, James Joaquin, Martha Jensen, Deb Dawson, Lindsay McCall, Giana Terranova Photography, Bob Branham Photography, Laura Wasserman, Captured Moment

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P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA O N T H E COV E R :

Pony rider Sofia Roberts, photo © Tracy Emanuel 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 © 2016 Horse & Style Magazine LLC.

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F R O M the publisher

The Gift of

Parenthood Truth is I have always gravitated toward every equestrian-related baby item on the market. My mother also shares this affinity, as I am certain she has purchased every horsey onesie available. The hope that I could one day share my crazy horse obsession with my daughter Ella is reflected in her room decorated with everything PONY! When our second daughter, Piper, came along, the obsession had not waned. When Ella was just three and Piper less than one, we bought the first pony, Sweetie, who has made several appearances in Horse & Style, and has truly become a member of our family.

Seems only natural that H&S would honor everything pony by creating this inaugural annual issue of Pony & Style.

Our inaugural cover model Sofia Roberts is one of many passionate pony riders who dreams of Pony Finals. She talked with P&S about balancing riding and school, and shared with us the bond she has with her barn mates (pg. 32).

She and her friends were also a part of Pony Fashion (pg. 38).

Our H&S contributor and recovered pony mom, Jana Barbe, re-lived the experience in order to create this issue’s amusing yet educational Survival Guide for Pony Finals (pg. 46).

Sarah Appel’s pony-loving daughters Piper (left) and Ella (right), photo © Alicia Cervenka

W

elcome to the inaugural issue of Pony & Style! If you are a regular reader of Horse & Style Magazine, you know I often write about my family in the publisher’s letter. My first daughter, who was born just two issues after the launch of H&S, was, in fact, one of the inspirations for the magazine. At four months pregnant and searching for the next step in my career, I realized I wanted to be home with the baby while continuing to work. Like every new parent, I had no idea what a game-changer parenthood would be, and now realize that nothing can prepare you until it’s your turn to live the experience.

So much joy, so much laughter and so much worry comes with being a mother! While I constantly struggle to find balance in my parenting, professional, and personal life, one thing I continue to remind myself, is how lucky I truly am to have been allowed the gift of parenthood, even if it is the most demanding thing imaginable!

We also caught up with West Coast pony rider Avery Glynn, who portrays the mix of excitement and hope about qualifying for the only national finals just for ponies (pg. 22). And East Coast pony rider Luke Jensen shared 10 Things we may not know about him (pg. 7), while five mother-daughter pairs talked about how it all began, the nerves and their best memories in Dynamite Dynamics (pg. 26).

As we send the first issue of Pony & Style to print, there will be another ‘first’ in my life as well. Both Ella (4½) and Piper (2) are planning to ride in the lead line at The Giant Steps Charity Classic in Sonoma. As we say a little prayer that the lead line will go before nap time, we relish everything pony about parenthood.

Cheers,

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contributors

Emily Pollard

Jackie McFarland

Danielle Demers

Erinn Lew

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, 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.

Erinn holds a degree in journalism and sociology, and rode in the IHSA. Although a Bay Area native, she got her start riding on the East Coast and competed as a junior on the Los Angeles circuit in the jumpers and equitation.

She brings her experience in journalism, fashion, and online media to Horse & Style as an assistant publisher.

Samantha Hofherr

Laurie Berglie

Pam Maley

Alli Addison

Samantha is a graduate of Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, CA and is starting at the University of Southern California this fall.

Samantha’s love for horses extends from showing on the circuit to being the captain of her IEA team. She plans to continue riding at USC, and hopes her communications and marketing major will allow her to work in the horse world once she graduates.

Laurie 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 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.

An avid former foxhunter, Pam knows well that special bond between horse and rider.

With her husband she was co-owner of Dunford Farm, a Thoroughbred farm in Lexington, Kentucky, where she was involved in every aspect of the horses’ lives. Her journey with horses continues as a member of the EqSol Team.

Alli 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.

Dana Miller

Tracy Emanuel

Terri Roberson, Psy. D.

Jana Barbe

Dana is a partner at Chagrin Saddlery in Chagrin Falls, OH, an equestrian tack shop known for its commitment to customer service, delivered in a unique way.

She has also authored a number of articles and blogs about equestrian style. Dana maintains a busy schedule as an equestrian stylist, outfitting riders from all over the country including top equitation competitors and IEA/IHSA Teams.

For more the 25 years, Tracy has been taking photographs that touch the heart and soul. With the gifted ability to evoke emotion, Tracy is an extremely versatile photographer who can quickly identify and capture moments in time that others might overlook.

Her work has graced covers and illustrated feature stories in some of the country’s top equestrian and lifestyle magazines.

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 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

1.

…you may not know about…

LUKE JENSEN

Luke’s family owns Mellow Mushroom restaurants in Texas. His dad can often be found behind the counter chatting up local patrons, while his mom travels with him to the horse shows.

2. Luke travels about 35 weeks of the year for shows.

3.

He loves to bake, and often creates delicious confections with barn-mate, amateur rider Leslie Campbell.

4. In addition to riding, Luke grew up playing soccer, violin, and piano.

By 4th grade, he realized his true passion for horses and committed fully to the sport.

5. His first words were in Spanish and he still tries to speak Spanish when he has the opportunity.

6. When he’s not riding, he likes to

spend time outdoors, reading, and writing short stories. He loves the Harry Potter series and all kinds of other novels.

Twelve-year-old Luke Jensen is a talented young rider with a bright future, and he comes by his love of horses naturally. His uncle, Hunt Tosh, is a top hunter rider and Luke dreams of following in his footsteps.With the support of his family, including his mother Martha and father Monte, as well as his trainers, Bill Schaub and Molly Sewell Schott, Luke is well on his way to fulfilling that dream.

Luke’s passion for riding started at an early age; as soon as he could walk his grandmother would take him out riding ponies. As a young child he worked with Colleen McQuay who coached him from short stirrup to his first Pony Finals. Now, Luke is a working student for Schaub at Over the Hill Farm (OTHF) in Sanford, FL where he enjoys training the green ponies with Sewell Schott, and getting them ready for the show ring.

This year, Luke has developed a special relationship with Schaub’s medium pony, Highland’s Heaven Sent, with whom Luke recently achieved one of his dreams by qualifying and showing her at Devon. In addition to receiving a ribbon in every class and scoring in the high 80s, Luke was also honored by being selected for the Pony Sportsmanship award.

Luke is excited to be back in Lexington, KY for the US Pony Finals. Just head to the Walnut Ring and you can watch him living his dream!

Photo © Martha Jensen

7. Luke loves to travel! So far, he has

visited 30 states and 5 countries.

8. He loves music and he is excited

to attend the Farm Aid concert this fall, where many of his favorite artists will perform.

9. Luke has the best dog in the world,

Ernie Takis Jensen, who has an uncanny resemblance to a teddy bear. Ernie owes his middle name to the best groom ever, Amado Ramos, who insisted that the dog’s middle name become Takis, Amado’s favorite chip.

He is an only child, but luckily 10.

has acquired a “big brother” in Adam Edgar who travels with him when he is on the road. Both go to school online to accommodate their schedule.

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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

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1. Mariah Durand and Posh Dressed To The Nines 2. Team Burgundy Farms with H&S Publisher Sarah Appel 3. $500 SmartPak Pony Hunter Classic cooler and ribbons 4. Lily Larson and Loose Buttons 5. Virginia Bonnie and Blue A Kiss, winners of the $500 Charleigh’s Cookies Pony Hunter Classic 6. Violet Barnett and Happily Ever After, Winners of the $500 SmartPak Pony Hunter Classic and Reserve Champion Medium Pony Hunters 7. Avery Glynn and Parker Cliff 8. Zoe Brown and Farmore Good As Gold finished 8th in the $500 SmartPak Pony Hunter Classic

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9.

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14.

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9. Alexandra Eisler 10. Lauren Aubert and Hallelujah were Reserve Champion in the Large Pony Hunters and finished 6th in the SmartPak Pony Hunter Classic 11. Charleigh’s Cookies founder Cordelia Wolf 12. Patrick Seaton and Ashley Herman 13. Madeline Park and California Dreamin’ were Champion in the Large Pony Hunter division and finished 2nd in the $500 SmartPak pony Hunter Classic 14. Catch A Wave checking out his well-earned PSS Classic ribbon Photos © Alden Corrigan Media V o l u m e 1 / 2 0 16

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O U T & about

P O N Y PA LO O Z A AT B L E N H E I M E Q U I S P O R T S : Z O N E 10 PONY C HALLEN GE & MARKEL PONY HUNTER DERBY

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1. Big smiles from Zone 10 Pony Challenge Overall Reserve Champion and Small Pony Champion Evelyn Walker and Royal Moment 2. $5,000 Markel Pony Hunter Derby Winner Cavour (owned by Grace Russo) with Juliette Joseph and (L–R) Melissa Brandes, Brandon Seger and Chris Norden of Markel Insurance, Karen Perlow, Archie Cox and Lenny Marconi 3. Pony friends are the best 4. Tail perfection 5. Ponytails and pony tails 6. Skylar Wireman and Little Cutie Patootie

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7. Kyra Russell and Paris perform 8. Pony palooza players Juliette Joseph, Stella Wasserman and Augusta Iwasaki 9. Ribbon bows extraordinaire 10. Pony kisses are always awesome 11. Small Illustration's stellar trot 12. Shiloh Roseboom keenly focuses on the course as her attire is adjusted Photos Š Laura Wasserman and Amy McCool (2,5,6) V o l u m e 1 / 2 0 16

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T R E N D report

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by Samantha Hofherr

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Polished P O N Y ​ o for a grooming kit upgrade!​Wonderfully color​ful​brushes, G deliciously scented shampoos, and sparkly hoof polish, all perfectly organized in a classy pony tote, make it a pleasure to groom even the dirties​t​of ponies. Pick up one (or all!) of these grooming tools and give your pony​a super spa day.

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1. Shampoo Filled Sponge, Mrs. Conn’s, $10; 2. Body Brushes, Beastie Brushes, $9 each; 3. Grooming Tote, Kensington, $19; 4. Green and Squeaky Clean Shampoo, EcoLicious Equestrian, $34; 5. Grooming Tote, Equi-Essentials, $16; 6. Hoof Hi-Lites, Pony Glam, $20; 7. Pony Shampoo, Lady Muck, $10; 8. Hoofpicks, Equestria, $5.49 each; 9. Ladybug Brush, Haas, $14; 10. Colour Enhancing Shampoo, Gallop, $14 each

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&

d r a k c i R a n E i l K a O t M a S K WOOD

Y L L O H ELITE

CONGRATULATIONS & GOOD LUCK!

2016 US Pony Finals: Medium Pony Hunters & US Pony Medal Finals Thank you Micaela Kennedy for this fantastic pony!

Proudly offered for sale at Indoors.

Kate Considine | 818.406.1686 | katewillowbrook@aol.com | La CaĂąada Flintridge, CA Photos by Captured Moment Photography and Laura Wasserman | EquestriSol Ad Design

S T Y L E rider

by Sarah Appel

Zoe Joaquin 13-year-old Bay Area native, Zoe Joaquin, has been riding with Meredith Herman of Burgundy Farms in Sonoma, CA for seven years. As a Pony Finals veteran and winner of the 2014 and 2015 Pony of the Year in Small Pony Hunters and Large Child Pony Hunters, Zoe has gathered a long list of successes in the pony ring. In addition to riding ponies, Zoe loves all things equestrian and fashion related, curating the perfect Instagram feed, and spending time with her barn besties.

P&S: Describe your riding (apparel) style: ZJ: It really depends what I’m doing, but for hacking, I like a

colorful, comfortable look. If I am showing, I like a classic look with a trendy twist.

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

ZJ: For a casual riding day, I wear a pair of Ariat Olympias in tan or a fun colored pair of breeches with a coordinating Kastel. I also usually wear my C4 belt and my Parlanti boots.

On a show day, my head to toe look is my suede Samshield, a nice, white, collared show shirt, a navy show jacket (Animo is my favorite), and Cavalleria Toscana breeches. On most days, I wear a C4 belt in white, grey, blue, or burgundy (for Burgundy Farms), and I complete the look with a pair of Parlanti boots.

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

ZJ: Yes, I wear all of my good luck apparel on Sundays (classic

day). My lucky shirt is a Cavalleria Toscana show shirt, which is white with a burgundy and a black stripe. It’s my lucky shirt because it has my barn colors. My lucky socks have little beluga whales and pink hearts on them. The most important item for me to wear on Sundays is my blingy, black belt. A close riding friend,Violet Barnett, gave it to me as a birthday present right before Pony Finals. She told me that it would be my lucky belt for the show. She was right! I had the best round of my life wearing that belt. Now, I can’t go into a classic without it.

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P&S: What are your favorite equestrian brands?

ZJ: My favorite helmet is definitely a Samshield because of

how comfortable and pretty they are. My favorite breeches brands are Cavalleria Toscana and Ariat, because they both fit me very well. Essex and Cavalleria Toscana shirts are also nice. C4 is definitely my favorite belt brand because you can purchase them in many different colors and mix and match the buckles and belts. Although they might not be appropriate for all classes, they are for the ponies. My all time favorite sock brand is Sock It To Me, they have fun and silly designs, which are cool and colorful.

Custom and ready-made ribbon browbands, belts, dog collars and more!

Handmade in the USA.

P&S: How would you describe your non-horse show style?

ZJ: My barn style is more of a colorful, silly look. I love colored breeches, but I also wear a lot of tan. For my shirts, I usually wear a Kastel. I have so many different colors because of how comfortable and breathable they are. I always wear a C4 belt at home that matches my outfit or one that isn’t appropriate for the shows. To complete my outfit, I wear my Parlanti boots.

P&S: How do you handle high-pressure

situations such as Pony Finals or Medal Finals?

ZJ: Before I go into the ring at a big competition, I always make sure that I am fully prepared and focused. I also just remind myself to do the best that I can. If my best isn’t good enough to win, I know that I need to work harder for next time. But if I ride my best that day, at least I know that my round couldn’t have been any better.

P&S: What are your riding goals?

ZJ: My goal is to compete at the Grand Prix level.

P&S: Do you want to be a professional rider one day?

ZJ: I don’t really know yet, but if I had to answer now, I would probably say no. I love riding, but I would prefer to keep it as a hobby and take on another career.

P&S: Who has been the most influential in your riding career?

ZJ: My trainer, Meredith Herman, is very important to me.

She is so nice and funny, but strict when she needs to be. She has a great way of communicating with people, and she knows how to teach both adults and little kids. She doesn’t just make me work hard, she makes me want to work hard.Those are two completely different things. I love and respect Meredith, and I am so glad that she has been my trainer for all of these years.

P&S: What’s the one thing you never go in the

Show your true colors

ring without?

ZJ: If there had to be one thing that I couldn’t go in the

ring without, it would have to be my Parlanti boots. They are incredibly comfortable and they fit so well that I feel strange wearing any other tall boots.

Top photo © James Joaquin; Bottom photo © Alden Corrigan Media

boyoboybridleworks.etsy.com boyoboybridleworks.com hello@boyoboybridleworks.com

B E H I N D the seams

by Erinn Lew

A Brand Designed with “Serious Fun” In Mind For Kathryn Lily customers, riders, and ambassadors, the motto has always been “serious fun,” a concept that owner-founders Sharon Perrin and Kathryn Sutko have taken to heart. Their oneof-a-kind patterns are a favorite with riders of all ages, popping up beneath classic white collars and sleeves, and bobbing on the bright bows of the pony ring.

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JUST-THE-RIGHT-IDEA The designers met while in college in Massachusetts, where Katie went to Mount Holyoke College and Sharon went to nearby UMass Amherst. Both kept horses at the same barn, and spent ample time in the saddle together as a part of the IHSA. The two bonded easily over their mutual affection for horses, and over the same vision and passion for creating equestrian products.

Kathryn Lily was born on a trail ride in 2010, when Sharon worked as a brand manager for a consumer packaged goods company, and Katie worked as a paralegal and managed a large horse farm. When Sharon and Katie combined their respective backgrounds, they had plenty of expertise but needed to develop just-the-right idea, “one that was innovative, had personality, and was still ‘serious fun.’”

That just-the-right idea became the Kathryn Lily of today, known for their comfortable, stylish, and colorful equestrian sportswear. Their

line of show shirts, practice shirts, jackets, and pony accessories comes in a variety of original patterns and fabrics, and reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of both designers.

Sharon and Katie are involved in every aspect of the process, from conceptualization to finalization, and wouldn’t have it any other way.

CLASSIC AND CUSTOMIZABLE The two have created a line with a boutique feel and a number of customizable options available to individuals, barns, and equestrian teams. “Growing up, we had very few options for equestrian wear,” the pair notes. “We have definitely come a long way since the start, and have learned a lot.”

In such a small industry, their design concepts always begin with the “classic” look, and gain a special and innovative twist. All Kathryn Lily apparel is made with performance and personalization in mind. Shirts and jackets come in temperatureregulating, moisture wicking,

lightweight and breathable fabrics, as well as in a bevy of colors, patterns, and customizable options.

PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T PONY RIDERS Kathryn Lily has also made a name for themselves with young riders, who popularized the brand’s fun, sporty and bold styles in the pony ring. “Sometimes we push the color boundaries, but always do so within the classic framework,” they say of the kids’ shirts, belts, and bows, “We also retail at an affordable price that Mom and Dad love.”

The rider connection extends beyond the apparel itself, with pony riders well represented on Kathryn Lily’s Spokes Model team, which consists of riders ages 6–24, who exemplify sportsmanship and represent the brand at horse shows across the country. Spokes models also have the opportunity to weigh in on new products, colors, and styles for the brand.

As the two of them explain,“We like to say that Kathryn Lily is everyone’s brand, so please feel welcome to send us ideas for the future! We’re always open to something new. Who knows, maybe you’ll have a polo line named after you one day!”

In the past six years since Kathryn Lily was established, some of the most memorable experiences have also featured the pony set, whether it be on their first trip to Pony Finals under thunderstorms and in a car packed with ribbon (from creating custom bows), or at their first photo shoot, which involved kids, bunnies, puppies, and ponies. Although wildly popular with the pony ring, Kathryn Lily always maintains options for the grown-up set, providing the opportunity for young riders to connect and grow with the brand.

their company’s customer relations.

“We are the ones you will get on the phone, on email, or in person when you reach out to Kathryn Lily.”

Both women identify customer support as the driving force behind their brand’s momentum, and are quick to note how rewarding it is to incorporate customer input into their final products. “It has been great to be able to give back to the equestrian community. Kathryn Lily strives to be a brand that is ‘serious fun’ but still affordable to the everyday rider, from schooling at home to show ring ready.”

A TRUE MEASUREMENT OF SUCCESS This past spring, the duo successfully launched their line of show jackets and are now looking forward to the upcoming line of fall and winter shirts. “We have a few other ideas-but what would be the fun without a surprise?” they tease. Whether they’re creating a shirt or a jacket, outfitting a pony rider or an adult amateur, Kathryn Lily continues to blend performance with personal style, all while keeping in mind the customers at the heart of their business.

“Success can be measured in many ways, says Sharon. “There are marketing KPIs and ROI, but our biggest success is when people connect with our brand. Having someone reach out to you because they are passionate about something you created-that is the biggest measure of success you can feel.”

AIMING TO PLEASE With an integral team of only two, Katie and Sharon often find themselves happily at the center of Photos © Giana Terranova Photography

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F E AT U R E

by Alli Addison, photos by Taylor Rea

THE BEST OF

Children’s Pony & Horse Books

IT

has been a long day of work, riding, taking care of the animals, the ranch, and the household.

So I allow myself to daydream for a moment: dinner is finished, homework has been completed and the family is quietly and contently snuggled in the living room enjoying the warmth of the fireplace and everyone is winding down by reading a good book.

An adventurous fictional tale of a black stallion for my son, a beautifully illustrated pony classic for my daughter, a captivating novel for myself and some random magazine for my husband. Because let’s face it, even in the dreamiest of dreams, I know my husband does not have the time or focus to sit down and finish an actual book. Everyone is happy and quiet. Even the dog.

Then poof! Back to reality. My home is chaotic, loud, fast-paced, and a bit messy. My children never seem to be quiet and content until they hit the sack. But being the caring and loving mother that I am, I have set up my household to host the idyllic and picturesque evening that my daydream portrays.

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I grew up in a reading household where we lived in the country, had one TV with three measly channels, and spent our evening downtime reading and drawing. So, I know this lifestyle is possible and perhaps I’m simply trying to recreate my past.

Over the years we have amassed an impressive library of children’s books and stunning pictorial coffee table books. And we do manage to read every single night prior to bedtime. Usually one book, sometimes two, and every once in a blue moon three stories, if I am coerced into doing so.

Naturally, we house a plethora of horse and pony-themed books, both classics and currents. Books for toddlers and stories for when they grow. We have vintage books from my own childhood with torn edges and missing dust jackets that continue a life of well-loved wear and tear. We have also acquired some newfound favorites.

In an attempt to brainwash my children (as my husband claims) to grow into horseobsessed little humans, I have tried and tested a wide variety of horse and pony-themed stories and have developed a list of a few gems that our family thoroughly enjoys.

From toddler to teenager to adult, there is a book for every horse-lover on this list.

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Black Beauty

by Anna Sewell

No home library is complete without this 1877 classic English novel, beloved by adults and children alike. It comes as no surprise that with 50 million copies sold, Black Beauty is one of the best-selling books of all time.

Being a true classic, there are many editions to choose from, but a favorite is the Penguin Threads edition with cover art by Jillian Tamaki. Because if you are going to add this popular tale of animal and human welfare, make sure the cover is just as beautiful as the story.

Fritz and the Beautiful Horses

by Jan Brett

My children adore this story just as much as I did as a child. The plot of Fritz, a shabby pony turned hero living amongst a group of stunning horses, is not only beautifully written but wonderfully illustrated. A true library staple.

The Black Stallion Series by Walter Farley Another library must have for all family members, this adventurous series chronicles the life and offspring of, as The New York Times describes, “the most famous fictional horse of the century.” The first book in the series, The Black Stallion, was originally published in 1941.

Being another classic, this series is a wonderful collection to have in its original vintage form and can be purchased via eBay. Perhaps I am partial to the vintage editions as they were classically illustrated by my great uncle, Milton Menasco, a famous horse portrait artist.

Misty of Chincoteague

by Marguerite Henry

This beloved book from my own childhood, brought to life in part by the coordinating Breyer, was originally published in 1947. Based in the coastal town of Chincoteague, Virginia, this classic children’s novel tells the tale of a family and their efforts to raise a filly born to a wild pony.

The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse

by Eric Carle

This colorful and imaginative picture story is for the artist in all of us and a wonderful addition to a library not only for reading but for display. The large, bright animals from Eric Carle’s career will captivate a younger toddler audience and inspire them to explore their artistic side.

Noni the Pony by Alison Lester A delightfully cheery story of a friendly and funny pony who lives on a farm by the bay is a go-to evening read. The rhythmic story line makes the book ideal for children five and under and is wonderfully entertaining for parents to read aloud. Be sure to add to the collection, the follow-up story of Noni the Pony Goes to the Beach, also by Alison Lester.

The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses by Paul Goble This 1979 Caldecott-winning story of a young girl with a deep and special connection to horses is simply written and brilliantly illustrated, and perfect for both children and adults. Beautifully combining art, culture, and history, The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses is a library must have.

The Thelwell Collection by Norman Thelwell If there was ever a collection of stories synonymous with little, fat unruly ponies and children, it would be that of Norman Thelwell. No horse and pony loving home is complete without these stories written and illustrated by the most popular British cartoonist since the second World War. They whole-heartedly represent the pony riding lifestyle of past and future. A Leg at Each Corner, Angels on Horseback, and Riding Academy are some of the most popular editions. As a pony-struck child, I found the collection wildly entertaining. And as an adult, I find it even more so.

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R I D E R spotlight

Avery

by Samantha Hofherr

Glynn With prominent West Coast Hunter/Jumper trainers Ned and Hope Glynn as her parents and Sonoma Valley Stables in California as her backyard, Avery Glynn was born into a riding family and lives and breathes the horse show world.

Avery is a stellar rider who has competed all over California and been named Best Pony Rider at several highly competitive horse shows, including HITS Thermal. Avery has been lucky enough to ride alongside her mother, who she describes as her role model, and learn from the best what makes a successful rider.

Before this year’s Pony Finals at Kentucky Horse Park, Pony & Style got the chance to sit down with the talented young rider to talk about her equestrian-family background, a few of her favorite things, and what she is looking forward to at this year’s Pony Finals, “the only national finals just for ponies!”

Pony & Style: How would you describe growing up in equestrian-centered family?

Avery Glynn: There are positives and

negatives. The positives are that I get to live on a horse ranch and can visit the barn anytime I want to. I get to ride a lot of different types of mounts because we always have sales horses and ponies in the barn and many of my parent’s clients allow me to ride their horses and ponies. The downside to being from an equestrian-centered family is that we travel often so I definitely miss a lot of birthday parties with my school friends. But other than that, I love being a part of an equestrian family.

P&S: How do you balance your horse show schedule with school and family?

AG: I attend a public school which is great

because I get to have a lot of non-horsey friends.

However, I miss a lot of Friday school days

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because of horse shows so I have to carefully plan my time in order to balance keeping my grades up, my teachers happy, and being able to ride.

I’m lucky my parents make an effort to ensure one of them is with me even if the other leaves early to travel to a show. Then on Thursday night, I fly or drive with whoever stayed with me to the horse show. Usually my dad stays home with me on the Open days at the horse show while my mom competes, and on the weekends, my mom stays with me while my dad coaches.

P&S: Who is your role model when it comes to riding?

AG: My role model is my mom, Hope Glynn.

She inspires me every day because her riding is amazing and she always has a good attitude when she comes out of the ring.

P&S: What is your most memorable

P&S: What is your favorite equestrian

AG: My most memorable win was the $5,000

AG: I love Ariat clothing! I wear their pants, tall

win to date?

Pony Hunter Classic at Sonoma Horse Park last year with Fine Art owned by Bianca Jenkins. Fine Art is an amazing pony and it was a big class with many of my friends and a lot of nice ponies.

P&S: What do you do in your free time besides riding?

AG: I do schoolwork when I am not riding. I also enjoy trying different sports. I tried indoor skydiving a few times last month, which was super fun. I am also involved in the Children’s Choir in Petaluma.

P&S: Having your parents as your

Opposite: Avery Glynn and Always Happy, Below: Avery and her family; photos © Deb Dawson

trainers is a special experience that not many get to have, how would you describe that experience?

AG: Having a sport that you share with your

parents is very unique. We get to travel together, cheer each other on, and talk about our riding plans in general. I love having my parents there to coach and support me, but they also encourage me to get help from other professionals.

brand and why?

boots, shirts and jackets. I like that they fit well and wash well. I wear a shadbelly by RJ Classics and a helmet by Samshield. My mom doesn’t let me wear too much bling, but my helmet has a row of Swarovski crystals on it. I just started wearing belts that are by a company called Ruespari. They are stretchy, have bright colors and flat buckles. I love the fact that my Voltaire saddles are comfy and also have colored lining! My pony saddle is lined in pink and my horse saddle is lined in blue.

P&S: Which horse show is your favorite?

AG: I have traveled to a lot of shows with my parents, but I still think my “at home” show at Sonoma Horse Park is my favorite. It is only 15 minutes away from my house and they definitely have awesome ribbons and prizes.

P&S: What horses and ponies are you currently showing? What makes each of them special?

AG: I am lucky enough to get to catch ride a

few different ponies and Children’s Hunters right

now, but my two regular mounts are Always Happy and Esteban La Paz. Always Happy is owned by Brooke Morin and is an amazing medium pony who is so much fun to ride!

Esteban La Paz is my Children’s Hunter, he is 18 years old and really the best horse ever. I moved up to the Children’s this year and he has been Champion at every show. Don Stewart leased him in our barn for several years before he was passed down to me this year and he will be here till he retires, he is incredible.

P&S: What have been some of the

greatest challenges in your riding career that you have had to overcome?

AG: I had a bad wreck at Thermal this year, I

flipped my pony and broke my collar bone. I was a little scared and nervous when I started riding again and I had never felt like that before. So it has taken me a little while to get my confidence fully back. But I completely trust my horse and pony so they give me a ton of confidence in the ring.

P&S: What does qualifying for Pony Finals mean to you to?

AG: It is special to me because it is the only national finals just for ponies!

P&S: What are you looking forward to at Pony Finals?

AG: I have always wanted to compete at Pony

Finals. Every year I go to Kentucky to watch my mom in Derby Finals and Pregreen Finals, but I’ve never shown at Pony Finals. So it is awesome I also get to compete in Kentucky this year.

Because I ride sale horses and ponies, sometimes my opportunity changes depending on what is available to ride. So I’ll be competing this year, but I am still not sure who I’ll be riding or what division I’ll be riding in.

P&S: What is one thing that you cannot go to Pony Finals without?

AG: I cannot go to Pony Finals without my

camera! I love taking photos of my friends and ponies! I started my own Instagram photography page @sonoma.valley.stables.photos with some of my friends. My Instagram is @averyglynn and I post lots of fun photos of me with my horses, ponies, dogs and friends.

P&S: Thanks for talking with P&S,

Avery, and best of luck at Pony Finals!

Avery with her mother Hope Glynn, photo © Lindsay McCall

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Menlo Charity Horse Show Benefiting...

VISTA CENTER FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Artist, Rick Timmons

A U G U S T

9 - 1 4 ,

2 0 1 6

AT THE BEAUTIFUL MENLO CIRCUS CLUB IN ATHERTON, CALIFORNIA

Featuring $40,000 BENTLEY GRAND PRIX • $25,000 USHJA INTERNATIONAL HUNTER DERBY FRIDAY NIGHT GALA GRACIOUSLY UNDERWRITTEN BY STEPHEN SILVER FINE JEWELRY

MENLOCHARITYHORSESHOW.ORG • #MENLO2016

for the blind and visually impaired

F E AT U R E

by Jackie McFarland

DYNAMITE DYN AMICS Ten Different Perspectives from Five Mother-Daughter Duos We’ve noticed a number of pony kids have equestrian moms, both amateurs and professionals, and thought it would be fun to dig in and learn a bit more about their dynamite dynamic.

We picked five West Coast mother-daughter teams with kids that have been, are, or will be at Pony Finals. Each one has had an impressive season on both coasts, as seen by all the images in this piece captured at Blenheim EquiSports events. And all of them continue to enjoy the journey.

HOW IT ALL S TARTED Each story of how the moms found their way into the tack is unique. Meet amateur riders Shari Roseboom, Tonia CookLooker and Laura Wasserman, and learn more about how professionals Liz Reilly of Makoto Farms and Kate Considine of Willow Brook Stables got their start.

Shari Roseboom: As with most little girls, I always loved

horses and dreamed of having one someday.When I was seven, I finally got a chance to ride at summer camp and I was hooked. I was able to get my own horse when I turned 13 and enjoyed doing a very limited number of county shows for a few years before going off to college and having to sell my horse.

I desperately missed riding and I always knew I’d have a horse again, I just didn’t know when. So five years ago, at age 39, my ‘second chance’ at riding and competing began to unfold.

Kate Considine: When I was five I went on a Girl Scout

trip with my Mom and older sister to a barn. I threw such a fit that they finally put me on a pony. I was hooked! Within a year my sister and I convinced my parents to buy us our first pony out of the newspaper.

The daughters belonging to these equestrian moms all had an early start. Some couldn’t wait to get in the saddle, whereas others caught the horse bug a little later. Introducing the petite nineyear-old Shiloh Roseboom, who is beginning to rock the small ponies; the talented and driven teenage Lexie Looker, who still has fun with her large pony; eleven-year-old Stella Wasserman, who topped her age group on the Zone 10 Emerson Burr Horsemanship Grant Exam; twelve-year-old Augusta Iwasaki, known as Gussie, who conquered the 2015 US Pony Finals; and eleven-year-old Katalina Rickard, known as Kata, who has always been around horses but competed in her first show last summer.

Tonia Cook-Looker: I started riding when I was six.

A close friend of mine had been taking riding lessons. The trainer, Rosemary Henry, would bring her van over and pick up all the kids to take them for lessons on weekends. My neighbor always seemed really excited about it, so I asked my parents if I could start having lessons, too. They agreed.

Obviously they didn’t know what they were in for!

Shari: Shiloh would come to the barn with me when she

Laura Wasserman: I started when I was about five. My

got to stand on his bottom and do ‘around the world’ in my saddle. That was fun!

mom had a horse at Winbrook, now Cross Creek in Malibu, CA. She let me ride her sometimes. I also took lessons at Foxfield Riding School, which is a great place to learn.

Liz Reilly: When I was 11-years-old on Long Island. I

rode with Dorothy Sachey at Cherry Meadow Farm. It was wonderful! I did Pony Club, competed at horse shows and spent all my time at the barn – I loved it.

was two and help groom and bathe my horse. She loved it.

Her favorite thing was ‘painting their toes.’ She begged to ride, but I worried she was too young. So I told her when she turned three, she could take lessons.

Shiloh: She let me take a lesson on JJ on my 3rd birthday. I

Tonia: We have our own farm and keep our horses at

home. After Lexie started riding on her own, she would follow me wherever I went, trying to keep up with me, giggling the whole time.

Lexie: My mom and I rode together since I started at age two.

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We’ve always shared a bond for loving horses. I think of riding as a fun family affair as opposed to an intense competition.

Laura: When I first I took Stella riding she was really

young and got scared so she didn’t want to keep doing it.

When she turned seven she went to pony camp with her brother and never looked back.

Tonia: Yes, I get nervous because I’m so involved in her riding. I get more nervous for Lexie than I do for myself. She has nerves of steel and seems to remain focused. The pressure doesn’t seem to take a toll on her. So I try not to bombard her with my nervous energy!

Stella: The first time I ever rode was in Martha’s Vineyard.

My mom led me in the lead line class at a show. I do remember that I got a stuffed animal.

Lexie: My mom and I always work to support each other. I always do my best to remain calm, cool, and collected when watching my mom and when competing myself. She helps me with a lot of different things when we compete together, but nervousness isn’t one of them.

Liz: Originally when I took Augusta to ride, she wasn’t

Laura: Of course I get nervous, what mom doesn’t! I just

that interested. She asked to ride again when she was about four or five. I have memories of watching her at Elvenstar when she was little. It was a perfect experience for someone starting; there were lots of kids, the lesson pony was terrific and Kaycee does a super job.

Augusta: The first thing I remember is when I had a lesson at Elvenstar. I rode Harry Potter and it was really fun.

Kate: Kata sat on horses a bunch when she was a small

child, but unfortunately fell off a few times and got scared.

She enjoyed being at the barn but did not want to ride. Then when she was eight we got a very cute and sweet pony in the barn named Tommy. Kata would walk, brush and bathe him. One day she asked if she could ride him. She was a bit nervous and for two weeks she only walked and trotted. Then she got it in her head that she wanted to canter. She cantered one time on the lunge line and then told me she was ready to canter on her own. Then the next week she told me she wanted to jump. Then the next week she told me she wanted to do a line. And after jumping for a month she told me she wanted to show. She did short stirrup at her first show in July 2014, just over a year ago!

Kata: I don’t remember the first time I was on a horse, but

I was probably less than a year old. I was about four when I had my first lesson. I remember that I jumped my first cross rail on a pony named Bella, and my mom was so proud of me.

THE NERVE Let’s face it most riders get nervous before they show. Amongst this group of amateurs, pony riders and professionals, we asked about how they handle nervousness.

Shari: I do get nervous for Shiloh when she rides, but only

because I want her to do well. I’m a lot better now that she’s progressed and become more confident. She’s so little, so there were times when my nervousness was motivated by fear for her safety. But, we’ve moved beyond that. She does not get nervous at all, and I would never want to do anything to change that.

Shiloh: I get nervous sometimes watching my mom ride

because I saw her fall off and get hurt last year. But, mostly I’m excited when I watch her, especially when she wins. But when my mom is nervous, I just tell her that it’s okay and that she will do well. I don’t get nervous really.

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sit on the side and watch, leave Stella with Archie (her trainer) and only go to talk to her when she is finished. She has started showing in the Children’s Hunters, and recently was asked to do the junior hunters just to fill the class. She was only supposed to jump one jump, but she kept on going. I had to hold Shawna Dash’s hand! Often we show at the same time, and I have to stay focused on my own competition nerves!

Stella: Sometimes I do get nervous for my mom, but I am usually riding when she goes. I don’t get too nervous, but when I do my mom does not interfere. We don’t really talk about nerves, we just talk about what to do in the ring.

Liz: The only time I was nervous was when she did the

Derby at Thermal. The track was big and she had never jumped one that big, so I wasn’t sure it was a good idea. But with John French’s training support it went well. She is pretty much cool as a cucumber. She has a strong desire to do well, and is more driven than nervous. Her tears come from her own frustration with herself, she doesn’t give herself a lot of latitude to make mistakes.

Augusta: I don’t get nervous usually, I just take a deep

breath and go for it. Gussie asked to talk to a sport psychologist a couple of years ago, and her mom indicated that the work has given her some useful skills, especially in high pressure situations.

Kate: I am nervous the first time she does something new or

if she is showing in a class that it is a little past her skill level.

Sometimes when she’s going around my whole body goes numb and I feel like I’m going to throw up. But, I never let her know that. Instead I tell other friends or professionals that are near me how nervous I am. And I’ll make jokes with Kata, so she does not feel my nerves. The only way to get better is to keep challenging yourself, so the challenge continues for me!

Kata: When I get nervous before I go in the ring, my mom

tells me to “just have fun.” So I just think about of having fun instead of about making mistakes and it helps.

BES T IN SHOW We also asked each individual about some of their preferences, particularly horse shows, memories from a show and favorite things to do together outside the show. Universally it seems that everyone enjoys room service and TV time in the hotel room after a long day!

Shari: I haven’t been to a lot of different horse shows yet, but

my favorite is the Menlo Horse Show. Menlo offers top notch facilities, food and gifts – not to mention the courtesy meals and drinks each day. I love that every win in the ring is celebrated with a nice award ceremony and beautiful prizes. As riders, we work hard and it means a lot to be rewarded and recognized.

One of my most favorite horse show memories was riding bareback together to the parade of champions at Thermal.

A recent fond memory that I will cherish is being grand champion at the Blenheim Spring Classic along with Shiloh, we were dual Grand Champions.

so much fun. We both had such a good show. I had never done well there so it was really exciting. Menlo has a great atmosphere and winning is extra special there.

Stella: The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair. The

atmosphere feels special. This year I rode on a team which was a blast. Plus there’s a fair at the horse show. The Ferris wheel is so much fun – you can see the whole show from way up in the sky. More shows should have a fair!

L&S: We love to snorkel and collect shells all together. We

bike and Segway together and love to Jet Ski. We also love to paddle board!

Shiloh: My most favorite memory together is when we wore

matching Hunterbrook Farm shirts and we were both riding the same color horses.

My favorite show is Menlo because they have a fashion show there and they announce the top riders at the WCHR awards banquet. I can’t wait to be at Menlo this year because I’m doing well in the points and I can’t wait for my name to be announced!

S&S: We like to go boating and tubing together. My mom

Liz: I really like the Blenheim June Series when you can be there for four weeks. The horses and the ponies gain so much from that experience. The facility at San Juan Capistrano is my favorite. The show management has added some terrific awards and presentations this year. For classic shows that I love to attend it would be Devon for outdoors and Capital Challenge for indoors.

taught me how to water-ski, wakeboard and snowboard. I also love to cook in the kitchen with my mom. And our family vacations together are the best!

Gussie’s first Pony Finals in 2013 is a special memory. She was this little kid that no one knew from California that walked in and was cool as a cucumber. She finished Reserve Champion in the greens and third overall on Jerry Lee.

Tonia: The Menlo Charity Horse Show is my favorite horse

Augusta: I love Devon just like Stella does and agree that

show on the West Coast. I love the facility, amenities, prizes, and philanthropic aspect. The show managers, Walter and Debbie Haub, work tirelessly to make it a great event. My East Coast favorite is the Washington International Horse Show. Being able to show in the Verizon Center on the streets of Washington, D.C. is a very exciting and special experience.The show is filled with an intense energy that is unique to Washington.

Menlo 2014 would be one of our favorite horse show memories together.We were both champion. Plus the World Champion Hunter Rider Southwest regional standings were finalized at that show and we were both champion in our divisions. Actually 2014 was a very memorable year – both of us earned USEF Horse of the Year Awards – Lexie with Paddington in the 3'3" Junior Hunters and me on Winfield in the 3'3" Amateur Owner Hunters 36 & Over.

Lexie: My favorite horse show is the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. I love being able to visit the Amish lands while I’m there. I like the layout of the facility. The ring is very inviting, and I like being able to see the previous special winners’ names written along the walls.

T&L: We enjoy doing just about everything together.

more shows should have a fair! The first year I went to Devon Sam Sommers came and she is so much fun to hang out with.

I also love riding in the fields at Kentucky Horse Park.

L&A: We both really like wild animals. We read books, watch Animal Planet and we love to go to Wild Animal Parks and zoos. Our favorites so far are the Wild Animal Park in San Diego and the Wild Animal Kingdom at Disney World.

Giraffes are probably our favorite.

Kate: I think it would have to be Capital Challenge. Even though weather can be challenging there is a certain energy there; it is really a melting pot of great competitors. Last year Kata competed there and it was her first big national competition. There was basically a hurricane happening when she rode Elite Hollywood Smoke, and I sent her in with the words “just have fun!” Kata laid down an amazing trip with a score of 85 – her highest score to date. She was fifth in the class out of 40!

At that show Liza Boyd asked me how is it that Kata and I are joking around so much and having so much fun? I told her that’s the only way to do it!

Some of the activities we enjoy vary from tennis to darts to bowling, and even SoulCycle.

Kata: My favorite horse show is Blenheim EquiSports in

Laura: I love Washington International. I love being in the

K&K: Whenever we have a weekend off we try to spend it with family, we love that. I love to go hiking with the dogs and Kata is a good sport and goes with me. When we can find the time we love to get dressed up, go to a nice dinner and see a musical.

city, the horses on the sidewalk and the intensity of the arena.

There is an excitement that you don’t have anywhere else.

It’s just so different.

Last year at Menlo we were both champion and it was

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San Juan Capistrano, it is so pretty and always fun to be there.

I love when I get to show on the grass.

Photos © Amy McCool, Laura Wasserman & Captured Moment

O N the cover

Pony Passion

SOFIA ROBERTS story by Laurie Berglie photos by Tracy Emanuel styling by Dana Miller of Chagrin Saddlery

Even though she is only 12 years old, pony rider Sofia Roberts has already mastered the art of finding balance in her life. Her days are chock-full of school, riding lessons, exercising ponies, and enjoying time with family and friends, but Sofia is an “old soul,” and juggles it all with ease.

Sofia was seven years old when Mindy Darst first worked with her on a pony named Hunter.

That was five years ago, and Sofia hasn’t looked back. Instead, she continues to forge ahead, and with her drive, talent, and a level of maturity well beyond her years, she is a star rising steadily in the ranks.

But success hasn’t appeared overnight, nor has it been handed to her. Her accomplishments are the results of hard work, dedication, and a structured, balanced schedule. Plus, she truly has a passion for ponies.

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Sofia competing on Don’t Push My Buttons, photo © Shawn McMillen BAL ANCING SCHOOL WITH TIME IN THE SADDLE During the school year, a typical day for Sofia begins early.

She hits the books until three o’clock in the afternoon, and then it’s off to the barn where she spends the rest of her day riding. She lessons with trainer Patty Rogers on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On non-lesson days, Sofia focuses on what she’s learned while exercising both her green and her show ponies.

During the summer months when school is not in session, a typical day for Sofia still begins early as she likes to ride before it gets too hot. She still lessons on the same days, but enjoys this time of year because the longer, non-school days allow for even more time in the saddle!

FOR THE LOVE OF THE SPORT It may sound a bit like Sofia’s life is all work and no play, but it doesn’t feel that way to her. The old saying, “love what you do and never work a day in your life,” is very applicable to the aspiring equestrian. Not only is Sofia your typical horsecrazy girl who loves to be with her ponies, her pony friends, and at the horse shows; but she’s also passionate about all the aspects of the sport, including the devotion and reward of training her green ponies.

“Sofia’s biggest goal is bringing along the young ponies, watching them progress, and seeing their accomplishments,” says Patty Rogers, Sofia’s trainer. “We love watching the green ponies develop, and Sofia is a huge part of their training on a daily basis.”

When asked about her most memorable win, Sofia does not mention a big win at a prestigious show. Instead, her answer confirms her status as a true horsewoman in the making. “The biggest win to me is when I’m least expecting a green pony to go around the ring, and he or she will end up having a superstar round. That is so exciting to me! It makes me feel like we are a team, and everything is finally clicking.”

A M AT U R E P E R S P E C T I V E Sofia’s level of maturity differentiates her from her peers.

“To us, she has always been an old soul,” says Jennie, Sofia’s mother. “We’ve always kind of treated her a little older than she is because of how she’s acted. We’ve given her more responsibility because she’s shown us that she can handle it.

If she weren’t so responsible, she wouldn’t have the privilege of horse showing. Sofia understands that it’s a privilege and takes it very seriously.”

Patty echoes Jennie’s thoughts on her daughter. “Sofia’s incredibly mature for her age. She is able to handle a lot of pressure very gracefully, and she’s really able to balance everything. She can walk out of the ring after a not-so-great trip, and still be positive and go and have a happy day. I believe that’s why she wins so much – because she can put it in perspective.”

R I D I N G F O R T H E J O U R N E Y, N OT T H E D E S T I N AT I O N Sofia’s list of accomplishments continues to evolve. In 2015, she qualified for Pony Finals in the small and medium pony divisions, as well as Pony Medal Finals. This year she qualified for Devon and is competing in all four divisions at V o l u m e 1 / 2 0 16

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Pony Finals and Pony Medal Finals. Plus she is planning on competing her ponies at Indoors.

But if you ask Sofia, the journey is more important than the destination. “For me, it’s not about the ribbons. It’s about coming out of the ring knowing I did the best I could do.

Sometimes I know I could have done better, but that’s why there’s always a next time to try again!” It’s the work that’s done every day in the training ring, not the show ring, which excites Sofia.

A LWAY S L O O K I N G T O L E A R N Like any 12-year-old, there are professional riders Sofia admires. She named Beezie Madden and Todd Minikus as two examples, and she aims to continue on to horses, competing in the hunters, equitation and jumper divisions, ending in the Grand Prix ring. But she knows she won’t get there without the help of those around her. “I’d like to be my own kind of rider, so I’ll take advice and criticism wherever I can get it.”

Sofia understands she has much to learn, and is clear about her commitment to the hard work ahead. Patty feels the two of them are on the same page for the most part. “Working with Sofia is a pleasure,” explains Patty. “It’s easy, it’s fun, and we have the same goals. I would love to see her at the top of her sport in the junior hunters, and I know she would love to see herself in the high level jumpers.”

Like any good “pony mom,” Sofia can’t pick a favorite from her stable. “I love all of the ponies for different reasons. I appreciate each one for their differences and challenges that they bring.” She does admit that she looks for ponies who are willing and people-pleasers, and especially loves “the ones who like to jump!” When asked about a horse she would aspire to

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ride, Sofia once again brings up Todd Minikus and his sensitive mare Quality Girl. Sofia picked this horse knowing she would be a challenge and would teach her valuable skills.

JUMPING INTO A BRIGHT FUTURE For Sofia, now a seasoned pony rider with big goals, life continues to be a wild ride that she continues to take in stride.

As with any sport, it’s important to occasionally take some time away, and Sofia does just that. When she’s not riding, she likes to swim, boat, Jet Ski, and go to the movies with her friends.

She also loves to read and is currently enjoying the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan.

She also has a circle of close friends with whom she shares her adventures. “Sofia likes to share with other kids and make sure her friends have fun right along with her. That’s something that’s very important to her,” states her mom, Jennie. “You can teach your children manners, but you can’t teach them empathy. And Sofia has that. Watching her interact with others makes me realize how lucky I am to have her as my daughter.”

Sofia will take that empathy and sense of maturity with her for the rest of the year as she continues her jam-packed show schedule. After Kentucky Summer and Pony Finals she will wrap up summer and head straight into fall competing at the World Equestrian Center Fall Classic and the World Equestrian Center Invitational, and the Pennsylvania National Horse Show at Harrisburg, which happens to be her favorite show.

When asked, if you could choose another riding discipline, what would it be and why, Sofia simply states, “I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.” Sofia’s pony passion is intact and is paving her path to a bright future.

F E AT U R E

Pony Fashion

styling by Dana Miller of Chagrin Saddlery photos by Tracy Emanuel

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Styling Notes S O F I A (blue shirt) • Sofia’s outfit is perfect for tweens and young adults.The contrasting stitching on the Horseware shirt and Rebecca Ray belt adds a pop of color, making this an eye catching look that stands out.

Horseware Elisa Bamboo Polo, $89.00

Features a technical, UV protection fabric that keeps you cool and dry even on the hottest of days. Note the adorable printed fabric along the collar.

The Tailored Sportsman TS Trophy Hunter Breech In black and blue w/ tan knee patch, $189.90

Chagrin Saddlery’s number one selling breech in a classic color with a contrasting knee patch.

Rebecca Ray 2" Suede Bridle Stitch Belt In tangerine, $89.99

A versatile belt that looks great with both breeches and jeans – fancy stitched to perfection.

Parlanti Miami Field Boots, $1,000

Handcrafted in Italy, and made of exceptionally soft leather that molds to the leg for a second-skin feel.

S Y D N E Y (purple & white shirt) • What young rider does not love purple? She looks adorable but tasteful, a look that trainers and parents will love.

Equi In Style Short-Sleeve Dress Shirt In white and lavender, $80.00

Using the most innovative technical fabric on the market, this shirt protects from the sun and keeps you cool.

The Tailored Sportsman TS Trophy Hunter Breech In ultraviolet w/ tan knee patch, $189.90 C4 Belts Summer Plaid Purple Belt w/ hot pink chrome buckle, $39.99

Designed to be cut to your perfect fit, one size fits all.

This durable belt is waterproof and so much fun.

*Sydney is wearing her own half chaps and paddock boots.

C H A I S (red shirt) • We styled Chais in pieces that are very popular with the junior riders and added a fun Hunt Club belt.The colors are both youthful and mature.

Sport Horse Lifestyle Costa Sun Shirt in red, $104.00

Ultra-stylish and made of top-of-the-line technical fabric, this shirt provides UV protection, plus it’s antibacterial, moisture wicking, and odor resistant.

Hunt Club Derby Belt, $32.00

Made with stretch canvas material and unique styling, this unisex belt is made to fit all.

The Tailored Sportsman TS Trophy Hunter Breech In pewter, $189.90

Low-rise, lightweight, and a Euro seat make this breech super comfortable. One of the hottest breeches on the market.

Parlanti Miami Essential Field Boot, $599.00 The perfect balance between the show ring and the training ring. Featuring a canvas lining and single stitching for increased durability.

Styled by

C HAGRIN SADDLERY

by Erinn Lew The patrons of Chagrin Saddlery are lucky that former corporate executives Dana Miller and Kris Kurtz’s budding friendship became a thriving business partnership centered around horses. With a steadfast dedication to their customers, Miller and Kurtz utilize their extensive styling experience to outfit each customer with his or her own style, body type, and goals in mind.

No matter the riding level of the customer or the size of their budget, Chagrin takes servicing and styling each individual seriously. “We’re always looking for what’s next, staying at the cutting edge of equestrian fashion, but the most important thing for our customers is that we’re nice,” says Dana.

The shop has a unique family focus as both Miller and Kurtz have daughters that ride and are very involved with the store. Miller’s daughter, Skylar, rides locally and shows on an IEA team, and Kurtz’s daughter, Emma, is a well-known catch rider on the ‘A’ circuit, earning wins at WEF, Devon and more. The girls competing at different levels is truly beneficial to Chagrin’s product research. Not only do they personally test the products, they weigh in on which items the store should carry.

Since its establishment a few short years ago, Chagrin Saddlery has grown from a small consignment business to a full-service saddlery, carrying a vast selection of top brands in all contemporary styles, outfitting novice and seasoned competitors alike, and appealing to a variety of price points. Chagrin has something to please everyone – pony riders, moms, amateurs and professionals alike.

C H AG R I N S A D D L E RY. C O M

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T R A I N E R spotlight

by Sarah Appel & Emily Pollard

Pony & Style: Who are some of your mentors in the sport?

Patty Rogers: As a child my mentor was my

Patty Rogers In March of 2016, the Ohio Hunter Jumper Association (OHJA) recognized Patty Rogers for her lifelong commitment to riding, training and teaching, by presenting her with the Trainer of the Year Award.

Anyone who has met Patty knows this is an honor well placed as she has worked passionately and endlessly for countless ponies, horses, kids and clients in the state of Ohio for over two decades. Dedicated to her clients as well as all the ponies and horses, Patty wins at the most respected horse shows and prides herself in mentoring young riders.

Patty and her husband, Richard, owned and operated Branch Hill Farm in Loveland, Ohio until about five years ago when they moved to Lochmoor Stables Inc. in Lebanon, Ohio where she took on the role as manager and head trainer. Patty also trains Sofia Roberts at Roberts Stables in Wilmington, Ohio. While she enjoys all of her clients, working with kids, and giving them a foundation in not just riding but horsemanship, is what she loves most.

In addition to being an exceptional trainer, Rogers is very involved in the horse and pony community as a volunteer and is currently serving on the OHJA board of directors.

She hopes to pass on a sense of responsibility and a desire to give back to the kids in her program.

Rogers is present at the 2016 US Pony Finals with her group of eager and talented pony riders. She looks forward to a fun competition where the kids work together, the ponies are happy, and there are lots of good rounds.

trainer, Alden Wilhelms. As an adult, my husband Richard Rogers and trainer Mindy Darst are my most influential mentors. Richard has an incredible wealth of knowledge for the horsemanship and training side of the sport, he is really amazing that way.

Mindy really focused on the importance of leadership, sportsmanship and teamwork, both personally and with her business. Giving back was always very important to Mindy, but it wasn’t really on my radar, until I met her.

She is one of the main reasons I became so active with volunteering and getting involved in charitable causes.

Both Richard and Mindy influence the way I approach teaching the kids in my program. I want each student to develop good horsemanship and be a positive team player.

P&S: How has the Ohio Hunter/Jumper scene

changed since you started your business in 1983?

PR: The horse industry in general has become much

stronger here. The level of expertise in all aspects of the horse industry – facility management, riding, and training – has improved. In turn, the quality of the horses here is really high, and the horses that win at the shows in Ohio also win at Indoors. It has been really wonderful to watch the growth happen over the years.

P&S: What is your favorite horse show and why?

PR: I love the Wilmington Horse Show series, of course!

Especially the Wilmington Winter series. I also really love Devon, I just love everything about it. The timeless, classic feel, the horses, the location. It is a very fun show.

P&S: What is your favorite part of being a pony trainer?

PR: I love teaching the little kids, and seeing their

faces light up as they start to really find their balance and athleticism on a horse; it is so wonderful to be a part of that. I love watching how the process of riding, training and showing really develops their confidence and self-esteem; they just blossom under the responsibility of the process. And at the end of the day, that is what I love the most, watching them develop a strong sense of responsibility and respect for their ponies.

P&S: How do you mentor your young riders to be considerate, compassionate people?

PR: It is an everyday process of cultivating a barn

culture that values respect for the ponies and horses, camaraderie with teammates, and respect for the sport.

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The kids live and breathe these principles as they carefully care for their ponies and learn really good horsemanship skills.

Horsemanship is not just a monthly clinic topic, we try to instill these ethics in the kids every day.

The process can become so cluttered by outside influences and the most important part, that you love the sport, can become lost. Show only with you and your pony in mind.

For those wanting to be a horse trainer…it is an incredibly rewarding job. But it never gets any easier, and you can never cut the corners.You are continually learning and your business will constantly be evolving, so there is always work to be done – on yourself, your horses and your students.

P&S: What is your best advice for finding the right pony?

PR: Number one, take your

time and don’t rush the process.

Make sure the pony you bring home is truly suitable for the child’s level of riding. That is the best way to ensure the pony and child get to enjoy a safe, fun and rewarding partnership.

P&S: How did it feel to

be named top trainer in Ohio by OHJA? And how does it feel to be a mentor for other trainers in the business?

P&S: Do you have any

unusual pony buying stories?

PR: My favorite story is

about Gym Sox. He was going around and around at the pony wheel in the parking lot of a grocery store when we found him. He was the cutest thing, black with four white socks, and we just had to have him! So we bought him and brought him home. As luck would have it, he had an amazing personality and he could jump a ten! He went on to qualify for Pony Finals.

Also, once we were traveling way up in the hills of Virginia and we happened upon a barn that had some super fancy ponies. We found Dreamworks there, who went on to win the Pony Finals.

It really is amazing how you can find such good ponies tucked away in unusual places!

P&S: Do you have any

words of wisdom for kids interested in showing?

How about those wanting to be a horse trainer?

PR: It was incredibly

Patty Rogers celebrating a successful show with her students.

PR: For those interested in showing, do it for yourself.

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It is an everyday process of cultivating a barn culture that values respect for the ponies and horses, camaraderie with teammates, and respect for the sport.

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”

gratifying to win that award, especially because the vote was from my peers; it was such a big compliment. I am always happy to help others when and where I can. Ultimately, it is about the kids, and I love helping them, whether they are in my program or in one of my colleague’s programs.

In this business it is so important that we help each other. It takes a village, built from the ground up, to have a really strong training program.

From the grooms, to the farriers, to the vets, to the assistants, it takes everyone getting involved and it’s a team effort. And it has to be that way for it to work.

lochmoorstables.com Opening page: Photo © Tracy Emanuel Photography; This Page, Photo courtesy of Patty Rogers

Caroline Burke

Lucy Homer AND

Whatdoyasay?

AND

Serendipity owned by the

owned by the

Park Family

Jenkins Family

Qualified for the

Qualified for the

US Large Pony Hunter Championships

US Large Pony Hunter Championships and the USEF Pony Medal Finals

Round Meadow Farm wishes our girls the best of luck at this years US National Pony Finals!

Nicole Norris Currie Geffken Zoe McCarthy Trainers

www.RoundMeadowFarm.com

Menlo Circus Club Atherton, CA mobile: 650.533.9191 stable: 650.325.0196

L I F E of barbe

by Jana Cohen Barbe

A Pony Mom's

S U R V I VA L G U I D E FOR PONY FINALS

When the editors of Pony & Style suggested I write an article on “How to Survive Pony Finals,” I began to twitch uncontrollably. Pony Finals? I thought I had put that behind me. My youngest daughter is now 20. Our days at Pony Finals are long over. I have moved past the tortured visions of braids and bows and finger nails painted with the names of ponies. I am no longer plagued by the model-induced nightmares and cold sweats. I no longer think about putting mascara on a horse.

Why would I want to go back and relive it all?

But then it struck me, I need to go back for the good of all the unprepared pony moms out there who think Pony Finals is just another show.

Right, like a Birkin is just another handbag.

So, for the good of humanity… here is my Pony Finals Survival Guide.

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1. Go for the fun, not for the ribbons.

Pony Finals is all about expectations: the expectations of the children, the expectations of the parents and the expectations of the trainers. Everyone wants to win and everyone has invested a great deal of time, money and emotional energy to qualify for Pony Finals. They all arrive expecting to ribbon, and that is the first mistake. The key is to arrive expecting only to have fun, to enjoy the experience and to make friends. Do not arrive expecting to win. In fact, the fewer the expectations the better. The reality of all the big shows, and it is a hard reality: only a small percentage of the participants are really in a position to win or even to ribbon. If you are one of those, great. But for the rest, it is the experience that is the reward. So, encourage your children to meet new people, to grow as a rider, to participate in each and every event, and to expect nothing more. You will go home much happier that way and so will your children.

2. Listen to the Professionals.

Fifty-one weeks of the year, you trust your trainer to teach your child to ride and to hone their evolving skills as a

young horseman. On that fifty-second week – the week of Pony Finals – stay the course. Pony Finals is not the moment to decide you do not trust your trainer and you are going to take over the training of your child or the grooming of the pony. Indeed, Pony Finals is the moment to hand your child off to the trainer in the warm-up ring and walk away. Let the trainer do their job and you be a parent. The roles are different. Stick to yours and let the professionals do theirs.

plus. The older sibling can be helpful – ours assisted with the pony, with tack and also served as an emotional buffer. But younger siblings and even older siblings who do not ride can put additional pressure on parents. Only you can know your family and what is best for your family. My only suggestion is that you pause and consider whether Pony Finals should be a “family outing” or whether it is a time to focus on the child who is competing.

3. Stay Cool. Literally and Figuratively.

7. You are a Great Parent. Know it. Believe It.

Pony Finals can be the hottest week of the year. Dehydrated riders and dehydrated parents can become cranky and unhappy, and the whole situation (already a pressure cooker) can quickly unravel. Sugar spikes don’t help – they make the emotional swings worse. One of the real keys to surviving Pony Finals is to eat balanced meals, avoid a lot of sweets and stay hydrated. If it is really hot, bring Powerade. Go back to the hotel and swim when your event concludes. There will be a temptation to never leave the Horse Park, but go ahead and leave. An overheated miserable child (or sibling) will add nothing to the experience and will only make the task of competing harder (for everyone). There is no shame in sitting in air conditioning and watching a movie. It’s good for your temperature and your sanity.

So much about Pony Finals made me feel like a failure as a mother. My daughter wore a hairnet, not braids and bows, even when she competed in the small ponies. Nothing she was wearing or carrying was monogrammed or embroidered.

Her stock tie was not even a little bit fluffy, because I tied it and I am stock-tie impaired. There were no homemade snacks for her. There were no homemade snacks for the pony either.

And I brought work with me – and I worked. My first year at Pony Finals, I allowed all of that to get to me. I thought I was lacking somehow, as I compared myself to the pony moms who seemed to have every detail perfect. By the time my daughter was doing her large pony, I came to understand that I was being the best mom I could be, and how she rode was not a reflection of me. I let go, and interestingly, that was the year she was in the ribbons. I do not know if there is a correlation between the two. I just know that we all had gained perspective over time, and I think that perspective helped her go in the ring and lay down a beautiful trip.

4. Be Nice. Find Others Who Are Nice.

Avoid the Not-so-Nice.

Let’s face it, not every parent who attends Pony Finals is in the running for Mrs. or Mr. Congeniality. I remember sitting in the bleachers and hearing some truly awful comments about riders, their ponies, and their trips. I cannot fathom the impulse to do that. These are children competing. We should all be rooting for each and every one of them to jump around and to ride their best. So let’s all resolve to do that. It certainly helps if you can find a supportive group of parents to sit with – a group that collectively cheers for everyone’s children.

Maybe they are your barn-mates or maybe they are new friends, but Pony Finals is best managed with a team where everyone is pulling for each other. As for the not-so-nice, just avoid them or walk away. Life is too short to invest energy in pettiness.

5. Redundancy is not Redundant.

Bring two of everything if you can. Two sets of gloves. Two hunt coats, budget permitting. Crops, spurs, straps, garters – double up on everything. The last thing you need is the stress of not being able to find a vital piece of equipment when you need it.Yes, there are dozens of tack stores at Pony Finals, but do you really want to run to a store? Take the stress off you and your child by having “extras.” I know this tip sounds mundane but when your child loses a glove as they are about to go in to the ring, you will be so thankful for this tip.

6. He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother.

Siblings and Pony Finals can be, well, complicated. Older siblings who ride (as we had in our family) can be a huge

In truth, I look back on Pony Finals fondly. Yes there was a lot of drama. A lot of drama. But there were also moments of joy and laughter and pride. And I can say unequivocally that my daughter grew from the experience. She grew as a rider and more importantly, as a human being. And for us that was the true value and victory of Pony Finals.

So from my family to yours, good luck and have fun. Getting there is half the battle, surviving is next. And you, as I did, can survive with a smile (and possibly a glass of wine). Now with a residence in lovely Lexington I plan to stop by and watch and I will cheer for all. I may even bring some wine.

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.

Illustration by Norman Thelwell: "Champion" © The Thelwell Estate 2016; Reproduced by permission of NewTack Strategies, Inc.

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S T Y L E profiles

by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

Competition Cutie Model Winner Pastel Piggies, Kathryn Lily, $25 Silver Bit Bracelet, Kathryn Lily, $30 Girl’s Ingate Show Coat, Equine Couture, $120 Children’s Coolmax Champion Breeches, Equine Couture, $60 Girl’s Short Sleeved Competition Shirt, Horseware Ireland, $45 Children’s Heritage Contour Field Boot, Ariat, $260

We know the equestrian obsessed child doesn’t just want to show their pony pride in the ring. We’ve gathered all things pony to keep your horse-hooked kid dressed in their favorite pony inspired fashions. From school to lesson days, a pop of pony makes everyone smile!

Team USA Horses with Heart Charm Bracelet, Back in the Saddle, $25 Rio de Janeiro Script Hat, Shop USEF, $25 Team USA Cotton-Blend Shorts, Polo Ralph Lauren, $45 Team USA Cotton Mesh Polo, Polo Ralph Lauren, $60 Team USA Cinch Sack, Polo Ralph Lauren, $22 Chuck Taylor All Star II Ox Sneakers, Converse, $55

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Lesson Day Children’s Stretch Half Chaps, Ovation, $35 The Pony Belt,

Deux Chevaux, $200 Moxie Applique Polo Shirt, Joules, $45 Girl’s Nix Jean Breeches, Animo, $240 Children’s Pro Show Glove, SSG, $25 Kids Scout Zip Paddock Boot, Ariat, $80

School Daze Kid’s Hoody, Horseware Ireland, $60 Hearts & Horses Classic Journal, Joules, $12 Vava Sneaker, Ash, $95 Kids Ginny Crop Jeans, Hudson Jeans, $45 Courage Horse Charm and Cherry Quartz Bangle Bracelet, Unwritten, $55 Pony Uo Backpack, Garnett Hill, $35

Little Sister Go-Go Purse, Stephen Joseph, $18 Adorablue Show Bows, Belle & Bow, $30 Night Sky Skippy Horse Chambray Dress, Stella McCartney Kids, $143 Equestrian Sophia Plush Doll, Disney, $8 Pink Pony Parade Bracelet, Just for Ponies, $8 Kid’s Fatbaby Cowgirl Boot, Ariat, $45

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P O N Y corner

SMALL ILLUSTRATION

nee MISS MONEY PENNY

by Pam Maley

W H AT ’ S I N A NAME? Four-year-old Sofia Lorelei Marbut doesn’t know it yet, but she set in motion a series of events that has happily engulfed her entire family. Her mom Erin was diagnosed early in the pregnancy with hyperemesis (think Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge). In Erin’s case, it lasted the whole nine months, forcing her to move to husband Whit’s parent’s house to convalesce. During that long ‘down’ period, she had plenty of time for quiet reflection and to plan for the future. One thing she and Whit decided was that their daughter would have the best pony. And they would find it.

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SKELLORN SILVER COIN

DOWNLAND GOLD SOVEREIGN

KILTINANE MONICA

MILLCROFT COPPER LUSTRE

SKELLORN ANITA

KILTINANE SONIA

C A N ’ T H AV E J U S T O N E . . .

Once Sofia was born, the search began for the perfect pony. “I fell in love with so many, and wanted to buy them all!” Erin remarked.

“Having a breeding farm had been a lifelong dream, so I narrowed the list to a small group to get the farm started.”

A ‘horse-girl’ from the beginning, Erin rode with a hunter trainer through childhood, high school, and college, and then made a switch to breeding. She always loved to study bloodlines, and growing up in the days of VHS tapes, she knew that breeding farms had tapes of breeding stock and sale horses, and she would order a tape and watch it over and over, enthralled. During the search for Sofia’s pony, Erin visited countless pony farms, learning along the way.

“We bought five acres and named it Lorelei Farm – Sofia’s middle name.” The farm was thriving, and outgrowing the five acres (in

Canton, GA, near Atlanta), when Sofia’s dad took a job offer in Memphis, TN. So they bought 111 acres, and began building their home and reshaping the property for Lorelei Farm. Living nearby, Whit’s mother rides dressage and both of his parents are partners in Lorelei Farm. Although there’s still construction, the ponies and the family are settled in with plenty of space.

MISS MONEY PENNY BLOSSOMS I N TO S M A L L I L LU S T R AT I O N Erin’s breed favorite has always been the purebred Welsh pony with its distinctive eye and muzzle, legendary even temperament and beautiful gait. But finding the perfect pony? That’s a tall order, so to speak. Then, Erin found Miss Money Penny in the United Kingdom in the fall of 2013, and was dazzled. She left her in her U.K. home for a year before importing her in 2014 at age seven. “I had never seen one move like this one.” Erin points out, “She’s a freak of nature mover, like she’s floating on clouds; and so quiet. I’ve had lots of ponies, but she’s something spectacular.”

Knowing the pony’s quality, Erin asked trainer Carri Tootle of Milton, GA to put her back into work after years of being

a broodmare. Still bearing the name Miss Money Penny, she won at her first show with Carri’s daughter Anna in the irons.

In early 2016, an opportunity to send the pony to Makoto Farms in Southern California, and trainer Liz Reilly, presented itself. Liz had been highly recommended to Erin, as had her daughter Augusta, a skilled rider chalking up a lot of successes in the pony ring. Coincidentally, Makoto is another farm bearing a family middle name; it’s the middle name of Liz’s husband and partner, Chris Iwasaki.

So Miss Money Penny became Small Illustration and went off to SoCal to become a star in April 2016. Just as Erin had, the Makoto team fell in love with her. One team member sent Erin a video of her four-and-a-half year old daughter hacking Small Illustration in the warm-up ring at the show. Molly, as she’s called around the barn, became an instant favorite.

Augusta began showing her at the beginning of the Blenheim 2016 June Classic Series, and in Week III, she piloted the exquisite chestnut medium pony to the Zone 10 Pony Challenge Green Pony Grand Championship. Though V o l u m e 1 / 2 0 16

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this pony is qualified for the 2016 Pony Finals, Erin made the decision that, if she’s not leased or sold, she will give her some more miles and then point her toward 2017, as her green status can be reinstated.

LIKE BROTHER, LIKE SISTER At about the same time that she discovered Small Illustration, Erin noticed that her full sibling, a stallion, was also for sale. Though there were no plans for Lorelei Farm to stand a stallion, she watched his video, and found herself contacting the owner. The gorgeous pony was raised by a lady in Wales, who ironically is also named Sophie. Now a Lorelei stallion, he arrived in the U.S. in 2016. In 2017 his first foal crop will make its appearance, and little Sofia Lorelei Marbut will have some beautiful ponies bearing her name as a prefix.

Named Monte Carlo, the new stallion is a stunning dapple gray. Because Juniors are not allowed to ride stallions in the show ring, his reputation will initially be riding on his sister Molly’s coattails. From all appearances, she has some eye-catching coattails!

Previous pages: Photos © Amy McCool; This page: Photo ©Bob Branham photography

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B E H I N D the lens

Shawn McMillen Photography

Any rider, parent and trainer who attends the best, most-respected horse shows and championships knows the name Shawn McMillen. Pony & Style is honored to pay tribute to the man, the team, and the story behind the photos you cherish from Pony Finals and beyond.

As told by Shawn’s fiancée, and the person who carries on the business and the name, Melissa Pomerleau…

Shawn was a ‘one of a kind’ man. He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphatic cancer in 1996 but didn’t let it get in the way of his day-to-day life.

Between 1996 and 2013, he had been in and out of remission with chemotherapy roughly every three to four years as it came back stronger each time. He lived each day to the fullest and truly enjoyed being at horse shows. It was a surprise to quite a few people when he passed away in November of 2013 because they had no idea he was sick.

In February of 2011, while he was in the hospital doing another round of chemotherapy, Shawn received a call that we were doing Pony Finals. With everything going at that time – his liver was having an adverse reaction to the chemo drug he had done for years – it was very good news. “We’re photographing Pony Finals!” was chanted quite a few times during that challenging week in the hospital.

Pony Finals is unique in that we get to photograph some new competitors and some that only get to experience this event once in their riding career.

It’s very important to us that they have photos from each phase as well as some fun candids with friends and family to look at and remember. The show crew spends hours making the facility look beautiful and feel special – Pony Finals is not just another horse show. We seek to capture that in every photo.

At our business we are a big family. Most of the staff at SMP has been working together for close to a decade.

As Shawn would say, we are a race car and each of us is a crucial part of that fine-tuned machine. It cannot run without all it’s parts. He said the business is bigger than any one person including himself, it takes everyone working and creating together – to make something you will cherish forever.

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C A N you stand it?

by Samantha Hofherr

Best in Breyer Fighting Stallion is a one-of-a-kind Breyer Horse that went home with the highest bidder at last year’s BreyerFest auction at Kentucky Horse Park. Each year, Breyer asks each of 28 artists to create one unique Breyer Horse that will stand out from the rest and raise the bids. Fighting Stallion and the other auction Breyers certainly have the beauty and presence to elevate a winning bidder’s Breyer Horse collection to Breyer art gallery.

Mold #31, Fighting Stallion, Breyer, 2015. Glossy silver dapple bay.

Sold at auction for $7,500.

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WHERE TO FIND

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

Do you want to see Horse & Style near you?

Let us know at horseandstylemag.com/request

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

Calasbasas Saddlery 23998 Craftsman Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302

Equestrian’s Concierge LLC 7600 Lakeville Highway Petaluma, CA 94954

Equesti Lifestyle

31441 Avenida De La Vista San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

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

Equus Now!

8956 Cotter St. Lewis Center, OH 43035

Gallops Saddlery

17937 SW McEwan Ave. Portland, OR 97224

Want to be seen in Horse & Style Magazine?

Olson’s Tack Shop

2105 140th Ave Northeast Bellevue, WA 98005

Tack N Rider

3031 Fortune Way, Suite A9 Wellington, FL 33414

The Tackeria

12501 S. Shore Blvd.

Wellington, FL 33414

Valencia Saddlery

11355 Foothill Blvd.

Lake View Terrace, CA 91342

Contact us today to learn more about our advertising opportunities.

W E WO U L D LOV E T O C H AT !

sarah@horseandstylemag.com

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