S A N
J U A N
C A P I S T R A N O
140 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Š2007 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.
BlenheimFarms
McMonigle Group 949.640.3604 www.mcmoniglegroup.com
May/June 2007
Features 22 John French - Featured Professional The world class hunter rider opens up about riding, life and his ”other” passion.
p.22
26 The Flynn Sisters - Superstar Siblings Two junior riders on the road to stardom.
p.26
p.30
30 Setting yourself up for the win How to prepare yourself for the mental ride it takes to win. 34 Autograph Signing Bridging the gap between Grand Prix riders and the “future” generation.
Columns
Departments
8 Pony Tales 8 Junior News Profiles 10 Owner Showcase 10 This and That 14 New Heights 16 Winners Circle 16 Junior Writers
38 Show Resources 42 Show Calendar 44 Professionals Directory
The magazin
e dedicated
to hunters and
jumpers on
the West Coa
st. May/June
Cover :
p.16
Rainbow Canyons’ Patrick Spanton aboard Sin City cleaned up at this years winter festival, earning numerous championships including Champion 1st Year Green at Thermal 2007.
Sin City
Patrick Spanton Pr emier e -West Is -W est Co s Coast u ast Hu Hunte e! nter/Jum pe r News Prof -- Pr ofess ession &
ionals als Di Direc rectoryy - Candids...W tor ill it be YO U?
2007
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9$%. ! (
DAVID & Lane Clark - Rider 2004 Grand Prix Rookie of the Year
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HAYDEN SHOWJUMPERS
Sportsmen and Champions Since 1979
Tel - 949-448-0823 Fax - 949-448-0832 Email - haymickey@gmail.com
Trainer: Mickey Hayden 25202 Nellie Gail Rd Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Located at the Nellie Gail Ranch Equestrian Center
Dear Readers,
C
aifornia ShowBiz is a magazine that has been 4 years in concept. That many years ago there was a discussion at the back gate of what was then Indio. The conversation centered around the need for a resource magazine on the west coast for Hunter-Jumper owners, exhibitors, trainers and spectators, that serve the needs of the show jumping community. A magazine that not only shares the wins of the show ring but also educates it’s readers about our sport. A magazine that keeps us informed of changes.
May/June 2007 Founder/Publisher Kathy Hobstetter
Managing Editor Shelly Allyn
Technical Editor Sandra Murphy
Associate Director Susie McCleary
This is that magazine. An exciting, innovative, forward moving magazine that will encompass our sport as it grows and changes with the times. There is a lot on the horizon for west coast show jumping, everything from changes for the World Cup qualifiers to the changes for the wonderful Oaks Blenheim facility in San Juan Capistrano.
Editorial Department Sharon Weiss
Design & Art Direction Working Lens Productions Iris Thompson Justin Phillips
Contributing Editors
I invite you to come along with us and be a part of a magazine that is dedicated to our equine partners who so graciously allow us to have great sport with them. Horses are in all of us in one way or another; otherwise we would be playing tennis or the piano. We are indeed fortunate they allow us to aim them at jumps and they go to the other side, all for our pleasure and enjoyment.
Sandra Murphy Whitney Coleman
Photo Credits
Kathy Hobstetter
Jumpshot Cathrin Cammett Richard Van Sickle Ed Moore Kathy Hobstetter Working Lens
For subsciption inquiries or change of address:
THE MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO HUNTERS AND JUMPERS ON THE WEST COAST At California ShowBiz, our forward thinking, motivated staff is dedicated to informative, educational articles that focus on the needs and interests of riders with jumping horses. We appreciate and accept any and all suggestions, article submissions, photos, barn news, and buying and selling. Please enclose return postage if you would like submitted items returned. California ShowBiz magazine is published every other month. 6
California ShowBiz 2973 Harbor Blvd. Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (714) 797-1404 califshowbiz@aol.com
The magaz ine ded icated to
hunte rs an d jum pers
on the
West Coast . May/J une 2007
Pre mie S -W-W -W -W esttes & Pa in City es es CCtoa trick toa re I CCstst oaH oa H ststun un Hte -- PPro H te unr/ un ro--fe ssu Spanton r/ teJu fePPss te Ju r/m ss r/ roio m ro Jupe iofe Ju fena pe na mrrpe m sslslsio ss pe ioD Nrrew e N ----CCCCan D nairirlslsec ew na N N ! an andi s ew ec an s ew D di D tory dids to di s ds ds............W ds ecto ec to s W irirry Will W ry ry illill illititititbe be beYYYYO be OO OU UU U????
Place your business in front of the horse showing public. ShowBiz California offers a variety of advertising opportunities to promote your Training Business as well as the success of your horses, riders and owners. For more information please contact us at: califshowbiz@aol.com or (714) 797 - 1404
Now accepting a limited number of new clients Whitethorne is an exquisite, mature, full care equestrian facility built on the magnificent Whitethorne Estate in Somis, California. With easy access from the 23, 118 and 101 freeways, Whitethorne is nestled amongst citrus and avocado groves, offering a quiet, peaceful location away from traffic noise and with outstanding facilities for over 100 horses. Whitethorne offers two large jumping arenas with Newcourse jumps, permanent water jumps and liverpools. An FEI standard dressage court, a longeing arena, flood lighting, round pen, hot walker, on site trails, multiple large turnouts and green pastures where the grass is maintained year round. Georgy Maskrey-Segesman and Julia Spreen Balcom, both of whom have competed at World Cup qualifier level, together with three assistant trainers provide hunter, jumper and equitation training. Debbie Knopfler, a USDF Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal Winner and USDF Certified Instructor, is Whitethorne’s dressage trainer. All of these trainers provide customized training for all levels from beginner to Grand Prix level. They also provide equine nutrition programs and arrange training clinics on site with internationally recognized riders, course designers and trainers.
5501 Balcom Canyon Road, Somis, CA 93066 (818) 618 - 9949
Pony Tales P O N Y T A L E S
I have a granddaughter who is in love with ponies. She loves all sizes, all kinds, all colors and all temperaments. She gallops across the backyard jumping anything that is in her way and she had learned to whinny, snort and squeal with the best of the little beasts. When she sleeps over at my house she is up at the crack of dawn just to make sure her imaginary ponies have been fed their imaginary breakfast. Every Saturday morning I am wake up to the sounds of ponies in my back yard. She is 7 years old and knows that she can ride in the Olympics with the best of them and I am sure she dreams about it every night. The reason I know this is because I hear her talking to “Daisy”, the white one
by Sandra Murphy
she has told me about. I watch her pat her leg and say “good Brutis” to the brown one. The best is when she hugs her pillow really tight and says good night to “Freckles”, her beloved imaginary dapple grey with the long white mane and tail. I indulge this child and her yard full of imaginary ponies. I sit by the hour and tell her how well she just jumped that Olympic oxer, although to me it looks like my ordinary lawn chair turned on its side. I buy her pink and blue ribbons for their manes, sparkly nail polish for their hooves and every pony book I can find for her to read. I do this because, in my imaginary world, I am watching her ride big,
Junior News J U N I O R N E W S
On May 5th, as the sun was setting
strong warmblood horses over jumps higher than myself. I do this because I really believe, if I really believe in what she really believes, then her beliefs will become a reality…a pony of her own to start the climb to the top.
by Whitney Coleman
over the Pacific, I had the good fortune to get a fantastic seat in the nearly sold out stands for the $100,000.00 Grand Prix at the Del Mar National Horse Show. My new friend (free seat) was a charismatic, energetic lady named Kathy Hobstetter who was taking photos of the competition for a new magazine. Wow, a new magazine, I thought, that is really ambitious.
it was going to be like, the content, the artwork, the plans for the future, and then the question, “Hey Whitney, how about you write a column for me and talk about juniors and the issues specific to them? Since it’s your final junior year why don’t you write about it for the magazine?” What was I going to say to my gracious hostess but yes? My thoughts were reeling. “Great” she said, “Have it to me by Wednesday.”
As the Grand Prix progressed we chatted about a lot of things, mostly horse related and had a great time watching the horse and rider teams step up to the challenging course. The conversation turned to the new magazine, ShowBiz, and what
Like lots of little girls, I have always loved horses. When I was seven years old, my parents gave me a riding helmet, gloves, britches, and paddock boots for Christmas. Since the gift did not include a horse, I put the whole outfit on and rode my bicycle. I am
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certain that my parents had no idea what they were getting themselves into when they watched me ride my bicycle around the neighborhood pretending I was on a horse! Once a week lessons soon became twice a week, and then the leased horse, then the horseshows and soon my parents were on the joyful road to horse ownership. Over the years I have had the opportunity to have excellent teachers and good ponies and horses. During my years at Elvenstar, I went to Pony Finals in Continued on page 40
Shadowbrook Stables would like to Congratulate and Thank all of its clients in 2007. Good Luck in the Upcoming Year! We offer personalized training programs for riders of all ages for Hunters, Jumpers and Equitation. We also have numerous quality horses for sale. Please contact Jeni Brown
Moorpark, CA 805-529-8069 www.shadowbrookstable.com
Owner Showcase O W N E R S H O W C A S E
Owning
The Kim Family
Heidi grew up riding western horses but when Nicol turned 5, and wanted to begin lessons, she switched to English so that they could share the experience as a family. That was the beginning of the life changing approach to horses, from hobby riding to owning horses that are competitive anywhere in the nation.
“A” show horse and winner of the IHF Young Horse Futurity in the late 90’s, and then tumbling into numerous others, the family has a long list of some of the California show rings “Who’s Who” hunters and now equitation horses. Zephrus, Rodeo, Shamless, Galipoli, Revealed, Brooklyn, Lux and Aspen are just a few who have shown to success under the Kim ownership and most of them ridden by either Heidi or Nicol. The family has always been with top trainers from Tracy Baer, Hilary Mayfield, Archie Cox and Joie Gatllin but have found a permanent home with Mary Gatti, Patrick Spanton and Kim Tasker at Rainbow Canyon Ranch in Azusa.
Starting with Zephrus, Nicol’s first
“Being at Rainbow Canyon is
horses is a very special privilege and, according to Heidi and Nicol Kim, one that is life changing, to say the least. Showing competitive show hunters is the frosting on the cake for riders like the Kim’s. Not one minute is taken for granted and every effort is made to see that the horses have the very best of care.
Photos courtesy the Kim Family
getting the best of all worlds. The care of the horses is super, they are prepared well for the show ring and everybody there is like a big family. Nothing is better than being on the road with people you adore and respect,” said the Kim’s. “I can’t imagine my life any different when it comes to the horses.”
This & That What a party!!
Photos courtesy of Cathrin Cammett
T H I S & T H A T
“WCAR Fund Raiser at the Endicott’s for Calcutta Mercy and West Coast Active Riders” 10
To my staff...
Thank you for all your dedication, enthusiasm & hard work this past year. Looking forward to an exciting and successful 2007.
Becky Warner (center) with Assistant Trainers Kristen Phillips and Samantha Roberts
Becky
480-391-3553 . 602-828-0214 Located at: Camelot Farms, 12051 N. 96th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Congratulations... Jack Hammond &
Sanmorino Owned by Ann Lindwall
Winner
Del Mar $25,000 Dearborne Stables Open Hunter Classic 20722 SE 34th Street Sammamish, WA (425)369-9883
THUMBS UP FARM
Sanmorino
Trained by Norah Ross
A very special thanks to Jack Hammond and John Turner for their expert riding of our very special horse. Ann Lindwall
Tel: 250.748.8577 Cell: 250.732.5867 Fax: 250.748.3278 foxstone@shaw.ca Duncan, BC Canada
N E W H E I G H T S
New Heights Winds of Change on the West Coast The
West Coast is feeling the air stir as change is making its way west. Seeming to sit behind the east, when it comes to International Teams, Olympic rides and World Cup successes, is no longer acceptable for our trainers, riders and owners. Bernie Traurig, associate USET Chef d’Equipe for the west coast and heading the West Coast Active Riders, is all about directions that will change long standing traditions that are out of date and not effective. Looking ahead to the future is a trait he has cherished his entire career. Always open to discussion, his mind runs along the track in one direction and that is what is ahead.
adjusted his schedule and show layout at both their venues so that the fall and spring shows have the qualifiers “indoors” under the covered arenas. Of course Dale Harvey, managing the Del Mar race track shows, has that arena available. It was the location for the World Cup Finals in the 90’s and is still available. Now WCAR, and other interested organizations, are working with Tom Struzzieri toward the feasibility of the new HITS Thermal facility having an indoor arena also. Tom has traveled to the west coast for several meetings, one at the Oaks-Blenheim show in April, and is listening to what exhibitors are saying. He will
Indoor venues for the World Cup qualifiers are currently the top major topic of discussion among WCAR members. How can we really be competitive in World Cup Finals arenas, like the Thomas & Mack in Vegas, if we get our mileage in the qualifiers on big open grass fields and not in close, tight indoor arenas? How can we change that and give ourselves a shot? How do we prepare ahead of time to be competitive when it matters? All questions are on the plate for WCAR. And they are being addressed!! West Coast horse show managers have historically gone out of their way to assure that as many qualifiers as possible are held in indoor arenas. Larry Langer, for Langer Equestrians, has always made the Dome arena available for the qualifiers. Robert Ridland, for the Oaks-Blenheim management, has
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be on the coast for more discussions in the near future as time goes along. When this indoor is built it will make a place for all qualifiers to be under a roof, something that is imperative in order for us to be at the top of the Finals. This column is dedicated to issues that face our Grand Prix riders. It will be a voice for what is important, what is happening, who is doing what and what horses and their riders are doing. ShowBiz looks forward to your questions, suggestions and ideas and invites you to voice what is important to you, your horses and your sport.
ARLEBO
CH
IS
C
FA R M
Jeanne Lyon & Webster
Alexa Lallos & Oliver
Congratulations ShowBiz on the launch of your new magazine. John Charlebois - Trainer Heather Lake - Asst. Trainer Barn (650) 854-2607 Menlo Park, CA
Danny Schultz & Silvo
Winners Circle
Junior Writers A poem by Jocelyn Neff
Shalanno Style of Riding Award
New Ride I am nervous, but still walk into the spotlight, Doing what I have never done, at a new height. Starting my opening circle by the gate, Cantering, creating a rhythm, and selecting my gait. Swiftly traveling to the first fence, The adrenaline spikes and I become tense. The distance is there, I kick and spurred, My horse takes over and moves forward.
Receiving
the prestigious Shalanno Style of riding award is a very special accomplishment at the Del Mar horse show. This award is presented to the top junior rider for their horsemanship and sportsmanship.
Safely to the next corner and around the turn, Learning quickly, I loose my concern. Overconfidence is my great weakness, Faith in instinct, but still sometimes I miss.
Sophie Benjamin, from Rancho Santa Fe, California was presented the award following an impressive week in the Equitation division the beginning of May. Carrying scores of 90 and 92 for the first two rounds of the $25,000 Open Equitation Championship, Sophie ended up 4th overall, the highest placing Junior rider following three professionals who took the top spots.
Approaching the next obstacle, a tough drop rail, Training flashes in my mind, “stay positive and you’ll always prevail!” Soaring over the fence I already plan my next track, I’m not ready for the jump and my horse takes a whack!
Prior to the Del Mar win she took top honors in the $5,000 Open Equitation Classic at the Oaks Blenheim Spring Classic in April. Again competing against Professionals, she walked away with the win in that competitive class. These open equitation classes are becoming very popular here in California and are tough to say the least.
Despite the bond, I can’t find a distance, Panicking, I come to the fence. At the jump, my horse plants his feet, I fall to the ground, tasting defeat.
Keep going, through the next corner, My mind on the moment, everything else a blur. Nice even pace, all the way there; “Steady, woohhh” My horse and I a great pair.
Although I fell, I still enjoyed the round, Learned a lesson when I hit the ground. What I discovered was immense, I’ll go into the ring next time with new experience.
Sophie is one of the West Coast’s most promising Equitation riders with exceptional success in every Medal class offered at most California shows.
Advertise your business here. (714) 797 - 1404 califshowbiz@aol.com Photo © Ed Moore
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Congratulations...
Sin City & Patrick Spanton Thermal 2007 Champion 1st Year Green World Hunter Rider Weeks II & V Owned by Kelly Straeter Trainers: Mary Gatti - Patrick Spanton - Kim Tasker Manager: Candise Pipkin 2350 San Gabriel Canyon Road, Azusa, California 91702, Office- 626-334-9480 , Fax- 626-334-8848 www.rainbowcanyonranch.com
Congratulations...
Rule the Roost & Patrick Spanton
Capital Challenge Horse Show Champion 5 Yr Old Young Hunter Now showing 1st Year Green Working Hunters Owned by Kelly Straeter
Proudly offered for sale
Trainers: Mary Gatti - Patrick Spanton - Kim Tasker Manager: Candise Pipkin 2350 San Gabriel Canyon Road, Azusa, California 91702, Office- 626-334-9480 , Fax- 626-334-8848 www.rainbowcanyonranch.com
Introducing & Congratulating... Indispensable & JoAnn Niffenegger HITS Thermal Circuit Champion Adult Novice Equitation Trainers: Mary Gatti - Patrick Spanton - Kim Tasker Manager: Candise Pipkin 2350 San Gabriel Canyon Road, Azusa, California 91702, Office- 626-334-9480 , Fax- 626-334-8848 www.rainbowcanyonranch.com
Pacific & Rachael Sears
Congratulations... Zone 10 Champion Mini Medal Finals LAHSA 2006 Prior Rider Champion SVHSA 2006 Prior Equitation Flat Champion SVHSA 2006 Prior Equitation over Fences Champion SVHSA 2006 Prior Hunter Champion SVHSA 2006 Prior Hunter under Saddle Champion
Atlantic & Rachael Sears “Special Thanks to Jen Hennick” Trainers: Mary Gatti - Patrick Spanton - Kim Tasker Manager: Candise Pipkin 2350 San Gabriel Canyon Road, Azusa, California 91702, Office- 626-334-9480 , Fax- 626-334-8848 www.rainbowcanyonranch.com
Featured Professional John French
J
ohn French is a quiet guy, and very focused. He has a plan and each day at the horse shows, he sticks to the plan, right to the plan. He goes from ring to ring riding some of the best horses in the country and on occasion, riding some that are not. “My biggest problem is saying no. I love the people but especially love the horses and when one is offered to me I have a hard time turning it down although I do that a lot. I ride an average of forty rounds a day but on occasion I have ridden sixtyfive. My ideal is twenty-five to thirty, that’s where I am the best,” he says as a show day draws to an end. He has finally taken a few minutes to sit ringside and watch the other professionals ride their good
Here comes the French
hunters. Then he stands up, takes a deep breath, picks up the reins of a nice hunter and prepares to jog into the line, most often in the front. He is consistent, patient and unfailingly kind to the horses every time he sits in the saddle and they reward him with good trip after good trip. His first good horses, in his opinion, were actually two, Delevan, owned by Sarah Secor and Chesapeake owned by Pat Warren. “I had just become
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ShowBiz Feature
ShowBiz Feature a professional and I found they were easy to ride, had great gallops and a huge open canter stride. All the things that are important, these horses had naturally, that made my job easy. It was nice to get to learn on great horses, it gave me a super foundation,” said John. “I don’t need a lot of sleep, four or five hours a night and I love mornings. I like to start the day with breakfast and wake up slowly. It’s my favorite meal of the day and I like to enjoy it. I stretch every morning and as time goes by I need to really address that program as well as get regular massages. That keeps me in physical shape to do as many rides as I do. I love it though and I wouldn’t trade my life for anything,” he wistfully paused. “I especially love the horse shopping. When I see one I like I take the time to try to see it and think about it the way it will eventually be. I find myself thinking about it all the way home and nonstop till it’s in my barn.” He is, by self admission, a perfectionist. It suits his personality to be quiet and slow. “I am not an aggressive person which is probably what makes me so suitable and comfortable on the hunters. They usually like you to “ask” them to do their job. The last thing I want to ride is a horse I have to “make” happy, it’s just not my style,” he said. It’s easy to settle into a comfortable conversation with John. He is not the least bit pretentious, and quite the contrary, he is open, conversational, and honest. He finds it important, when talking with you, to make sure you get what he is saying. He has an amazing sense of humor and drops quick sharp witty comments a lot. Without notice his laugh creeps upand all of a sudden you want to
laugh with him at whatever it is he finds funny.
done well by it. But it is not your only gift, you have many,” she said.
He has chosen Buddhism for his religion of choice. “The religion fascinates me. I’ve studied lots of different religions and picked Buddhism because they realize that we are all really one and it’s not you against the world, we are all interconnected. It teaches us to live together in peace and live in the now,” he said. “The chanting for the religion has also helped me with the quiet focus I like for the hunters.”
“It made me think about what my life is and what I wanted out of it. I feel like I need to give back because so much has been given to me. I can do that working with the elderly and I would like to eventually feel I have made a difference in someone’s life,” John mused in contemplation. “That’s what I want to end up doing when I get too old to get on a horse.”
John loves the jumpers but has made a conscious decision to specialize in the hunters. He had great success on Cathy Mendez’s Millennium but believes that to get to the top in the
California has afforded John a chance to ride and show year round and keep his foot in the ring. John is happiest when he has another show to look forward too. His vacations are regular as he believes it keeps the
“They usually like you to “ask” them to do their job. The last thing I want to ride is a horse I have to “make” happy, it’s just not my style.” jumpers you need several horses in order to stay sharp. “It is hard to do both disciplines and do them well,” he said. “All great jumper riders specialize and focus only on the jumpers, that is what makes them so great and cool at big jumps. I really liked doing the jumpers but I didn’t want to give up hunters and teaching so I re-opened Waldenbrook with plans for the future to have hunters that are competitive anywhere. But I really want a few jumpers too” he finished.
mind clear. His last one was to Santa Domingo where he spent New Years Eve with the Pueblo Indians.
John’s passion and dream is to own a retreat type retirement home for the elderly, he loves working with older people. He got involved not too long ago when an elderly lady stopped him to talk, mostly just about life. “Riding has been a treasured gift that has been given to you and you have
He has found a happy balanced life for himself, combining the winning of the show ring and the quiet pleasure of life that revitalize him. It replenishes his sense of humor and we all over that, he is really quite funny. Just stop him and talk, you won’t be disappointed.
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“You have to do other things or your mind becomes cluttered and unclear,” said John. “There is more to life than one show after another, as much as we love that. To stay sharp mentally and give the clients your best, it is important to do something for yourself and get away. It also makes the coming back more fun,” he ended.
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Following a move to the Rancho Santa Fe area, and spending a terrific year at Newmarket, two years ago they decided to focus on a small, intimate barn and their trainer of choice was Hap Hansen. You can tell how close the family has become to Hap just by watching them interact at the ring.
The Flynn Sisters Superstar Siblings by: Kathy Hobstetter
T
he first thing you notice about the Flynn girls is just how much different they are but how very much alike. They both have quick smiles, pleasant conversations and both have the same twinkle in their eye that tells you they are a double force to be reckoned with. Sage Flynn turned fourteen on April 14th and Brooke Flynn is thirteen as of a couple of Mondays ago, May 7th. They both have a love of the horses, a determined mind set, disciplined approach to their riding and at the same time are extremely well rounded individuals. And they both made the West Coast Active Riders Spruce Meadows Teams, Brooke in the 1.10 meter and Sage in the 1.20 meter divisions. They were interviewed separately, three days apart, one in person and one on the phone yet their responses were very much the same. They have a sister camaraderie and attachment that surpasses what is ever expected.
ShowBiz Feature
The Flynn family started their riding experience with Theresa Petyo, in Orange County at the Coto de Caza Equestrian Center several years ago. Riding whatever lesson horses were available, neither girl was competitive with the other and their passion grew at a normal pace for children in a good lesson program. “T”, as the affectionately refer to Theresa, gave them an invaluable foundation as well as a passion for the horse itself. They groomed, tacked up, bathed, wrapped and did minor medical treatment when it was necessary and
“I got very very lucky when this great family came to ride with me. The girls are extremely nice and are both go-getters, each of them! They fit my program and they have fit right into how I run the barn and how I treat show horses,” said Hap. “I just really love having them around and certainly love helping them, they are as cool as it comes. They follow my program and they fit here like a glove.” Brooke and Sage both certainly return Haps enthusiasm. “Hap’s best part is his sense of humor, you never know what he’s about to say. He treats us like family! He truly spoils the horses and likes it when we do too, he is a horseman like I want to be,” Brooke says. “At Theresa’s it was all hands on and we did everything... here we do as much as possible with the grooms as we learn how it’s done with big time horses.” Sage adds in with “I love it all! But the best part is his calmness and understanding. If I make a mistake I
“At Theresa’s it was all hands on and we did everything... here we do as much as possible with the grooms as we learn how it’s done with big time horses.” hung around the barn for endless hours on end. Did all the normal things kids do when they spend hour after hour at a stable with the trainers and horses they love. Their appreciation to Theresa is expressed over and over again as you speak with them.
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don’t need to worry, he is gentle and calm and it makes it easier to learn from it.” When asked who is their idol, they both immediately had the same answer…Bliss Heers. “She is so
ShowBiz Feature young but tries so hard. No matter what happens she lets NOTHING bring her down. I want to be just like that!” Brooke says with that twinkle of future things to come. “Bliss has taught me how amazing it is to work with terrific animals and create a team partnership with each one. I don’t like it when things don’t just click but Bliss just shruggs it off and looks forward to the next chance to ride. I want to be like that!!” she ends up. Sage adds, “Bliss has such a good positive attitude all the time, no matter what happens. She wants to learn and be better and never beats her self up over a mistake or something that is really not very important. I want to be just like that as a person!” Straight “A” students, they are both on the Honor Roll and know they want riding to be a big part of her future. When asked what Brooke wants to “be” someday, she laughs and says “I’m not supposed to know, I’m only thirteen!” While Sage chimes in with “there are so many options for me and I’m just too young to really decide. I know I want horses to be a big part of
Opposite Page: Brooke and Sage. This Page Top to bottom: Brooke & Luke , Brooke at the barn, Sage aboard her hunter. Right: Sage Far Right: Sage & Hot Pants. Photos courtesy of the Flynn family.
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my future,” she ends up. Both girls ride in all three rings, each has an Equitation horse, each has a Jumper and each has a Junior Hunter. Both girls also catch ride, Brooke on the ponies and Sage on whatever horse is presented to her. Their successes speak for themselves. But more than their show ring successes, their individual qualities speak volumes about each of them. They are very funny, very quick with a joke or a funny quip, extremely outgoing when you can get them to stop and talk, respectful and pleasant, amazingly aware of the qualities of life they like that will make them exceptional people in their own rights and intuitive about the qualities that it takes for someone to be their idols. The quality you look for in others is usually the qualities you develop in yourself as you grow up. These two juniors are an asset to this industry and this industry is privileged to have them be a part of it. We are along for the ride as they continue along their Junior careers, it will be fun to watch.
Introducing...
Brittney Allyn &
Ceres
Circuit Champion Thermal Desert Festival Mid Circuit Champion Show Champion Week II & VI Jr/AM Modified Jumpers Trainer: Kathy Hobstetter
714-708-1662
email: foxpointefarm@aol.com
Congratulations...
Taylor McClung &
Askaban Champion Modified Junior Jumper Thermal, CA - Week V Young Jumper Championships Top Placings 7 & 8 year olds Trainer: Kathy Hobstetter
714-708-1662
email: foxpointefarm@aol.com
Amateur Feature
Setting yourself up for the Win S
“You cannot always control your feelings, but you can control what you do with them.”
tanding at the in gate and watching top riders enter and exit the ring is an excellent way to see attitude in action. It is an opportunity to watch champions before they compete and after, and it will be eye opening to “seeing” a winning approach to handling victory and defeat. Everyone wants the win but few know the steps to setting yourself up to the victory in your mind long before the opening circle or the starting tone. Staying power mentally can hinge on one thing…how you handle the mishaps is far more life changing than how you handle the smooth victory ride we all hope for. Great philosophers, motivational speakers, counselors and friends have searched for centuries to find the key to our minds and after all this time it comes down to the very essential and simple law of life. You are not responsible for your feelings, you are responsible for what you do with them. Feelings are a vital part of who we are and certainly a vital part of our top riders. Everyone has the same mirarid of feelings, some have learned how to turn them and make them work FOR them and not against them. You can be one of those riders, and in fact all of you are. You just haven’t had the practice and determination to be in control of what is
ShowBiz Feature
happening to your nerves and feelings. Before you can be in control, you have to understand and take responsibility for your actions. Victory to handling your feelings is key most in accepting that you are the one who can make or break your ride.
“When you change the way you look at things, things change the way they look.” Organizing your thoughts... Like it or not, our thoughts control
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and influence our actions to an incredible depth. When we dwell on what might happen, it might and probably will. When we dwell on what might happen, it might and probably will. When we dwell on what we want to happen, it might and probably will. Our mind sets us up for victory and it also sets us up for defeat. There are five “C” words that will take you down the right path to change and victory.
CHOOSE your view of
competition ring...
the
Truth is that luck doesn’t actually
ShowBiz Feature have much to do with championship rides, and actually plays a very small part in our top scores for hunters, jumpers and equitation competitors. Everyone wants to “be lucky” and walk out with the blue. So if everyone in the class is wishing for that little bit of luck floating around in the air sometimes, who do you think will actually be the winners? It will be the riders who set luck to the side and prepare themselves for the mental ride it takes to win.
CHECK your input...
Leave negative thoughts and emotions at the gate. It is not possible to stop the feelings that come flitting into your mind at any given time but you can check your reaction to them. When the thought enters your mind, replace it with a bit of self talk that gets you back on track. Successful players have a keyword, action or thought that will bring their mind to something that is positive. One of the very top riders goes again through a check of his girth, the horses bonnet and bridle just before he enters the ring. It has become a ritual with that rider. Every class is the same and every class just as important as the last. It has given that rider a mental plan to go into the ring set to win with a clear mind and his mind remembers that.
“No dream comes true until you wake up and go to work on it.” CONTROL your focus...
Long before they actually enter the ring, riders have learned the focus to control their thoughts and that reflects into their attitude. They have become masters at not allowing negative thoughts to run randomly around their heads as they warm up and prepare for the class. They have achieved the ability to keep butterflies and nerves on check. They have conquered focus and follow through to the point it is second nature. Watch the back gate of the Grand Prix warm up here in California and you will see one of our very top riders control their focus. This rider, every single Grand Prix class, steps to the warm up ring, stops and takes a very deep breath while she sits there for a few moments watching the others warm up. When she is ready she will walk into the ring, pick up her trot and start the warm up. Every single class is the same, a chance to clear the cob webs and start with a clear intent.
“When you are in a state of confusion, think of you mind as a confused neighborhood. Who wants to live there? Move out!” CLOSE your mind...
Fleeting thoughts swirl through our minds all the time just looking for a place to take root. It’s like a garden where the weeds are trying to take over. Weeds are strong and powerful, especially when out of control. They will choke off the most beautiful
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flowers. The only way to control weeds it to jerk them out at the root the instant they poke their heads out of the ground. It is no different with nerves and random thoughts. The instant they rear their heads, set your mind to controlling and getting rid of them. Close your mind and shut the door the very second it goes there. Practice looking at the flowers of your mind and the beauty of the ride ahead of you and the excitement of the competition.
COMMIT to a way of reacting...
Without commitment nothing will change and one ride will feel like the last and slowly slip to imperfection instead of striving toward the best. The ability to change the way you handle nerves and feeling must start with a commitment to change how we look at them. They are certainly our friends in the show ring as they keep us sharp and keep us driving to be better and better. They do not need to control you, you can control them. Find your own way and habits of changing feelings. Talk to your trainer, other competitors, your friends. But it is essential, in becoming one of the greats of the show jumping world, to learn and practice attitude and focus. The steps are straight forward, take a deep breath, have a great time and make the five “C’s” a part of your life. Choose, Check, Control, Close and Commit. See you in the winners circle!
“The great news is that even in the worst of situations; your attitude is something you can always control.” Lee J Colan
Photo Š Jumpshot
Leone Equestrians, Inc.
$POHSBUVMBUFT Equistar, LLC on the purchase of Roland
Ridden by Jill Humphrey Top placings in major Grand Prix competition.
Wishing ShowBiz Magazine continued success.
Leone Equestrians, Inc. 6213 Excelsior Road Sacramento, California 95829 Office: (916) 689-4820 Fax: (916) 689-4063 www.leoneequestrians.com
"30 years unsurpassed in Quality and Value."
Autograph S essions Just how important are they?
by: Kathy Hobstetter
T
he stands are full, the riders are ready and the horses chomp at the bit to get a chance to show off their stuff over the largest jumps in our sport, the Grand Prix. Everywhere there are kids standing up and leaning forward to be the first to glimpse a rider they may only know by name. The very thought of getting to watch them pilot 1500 pounds of horseflesh around a course will make most of them drop to silence in anticipation. The electricity that
ShowBiz Feature
runs through the air as children run, dragging their parents to the designated autograph signing area as soon as a Grand Prix is over, is almost palpable. It is indeed an honor to be in line, in the front, when young riders know, that at any given minute their idols will round the corner, fresh off a ride over the big jumps. Grand Prix riders carry a responsibility like no other in this sport. The responsibility of knowing
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that children, young riders and young adults look up the ladder to them as idols, as they set an example for what is yet to come. This responsibility is one that is not taken lightly by the vast majority‌it is indeed cherished and held with great respect. Show managers have recognized the importance to spectators and have taken huge steps to make the autograph signing event important to the class itself. Managers and riders
ShowBiz Feature do not consider the class over until every single person in the line has had an opportunity to walk down the row of tables and get just a few precious seconds with each of the riders. The impact of shaking hands with, and having one of them say a friendly “hello”, will usually stay with these young people for life. Recently a young girl, 9 years old, named Kristen, stood in line for over an hour at the Del Mar horse show. Her aunt had taken the time to bring her to the show for the $100,000 class on a balmy California evening. Her seats were on the east side of the arena and the autograph table was on the west, so she was far back in the line. Nevertheless, she inched along patiently and quietly, occasionally leaning to the left and trying to see around the line to just how much further she had to go. “Do you think they will say hi to me?” she asked her aunt. “Do you think I should say my name? What if they don’t want to sign my book? I hope Mandy and Richard will look at me when it is my turn”. She mentioned this repeatedly as she inched along. The closer she got to the actual table, the more nervous her conversation became and finally, she stopped talking at all and got very quiet. When her turn at the table came, she shyly and quietly just slid her program across the table and watched as each rider signed it and slipped it back. Mandy and Richard were at the far end of the table and the closer the line got to them the more nervous she became. Out of the crowd stepped a lady
that knew each of the riders and had been watching the line and noticed Kristen. “I will walk with you and make sure you get the signatures,” she said. As they got to Mandy, Kristen was introduced and Mandy took the childs hand, shook it and wrote a personal note. Chris Pratt took notice and spoke directly to the child and signed the book with a note to her name, then Keri Potter, Rich Fellers and finally Richard Spooner. Kristen turned to her aunt and said “Wow, they are all so really really nice, they spoke to me, did you hear them? They spoke to me and shook my hand!!” As they walked away she was reading off each of the signatures and matching them with the horse they rode and how they ended up in the class. She knew the stats.
“I hope Mandy and Richard will look at me when it is my turn.” Grand Prix riders are at the pinnacle of their sport and their career. It is a very special opportunity to sit at an autograph table and sign their names into the hearts of children and young riders. It may look like they are simply using pen to paper, but in actuality they are writing their names in the hearts and minds of our next show jumping generation. They are making an impact on the desires and dreams of those yet to come. The wide eyed respect and awe of a child gazing across a table at their hero is contagious, and their heroes know it.
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Congratulates
BEST MAN Champion Green Conformation Hunter 2007 Desert Circut V Owner: Nancy Goodman and MG EQUINE Trainer: Tracy Baer Manager: Lauren Davis
(714) 847 - 5093
Assistants: Mike Nielsen / Carrie Coker
Introduces
BENTLEY Champion Low Hunters Showpark Ranch & Coast Tournament Owner: Pamela Doddridge Assistants: Mike Nielsen / Carrie Coker
(714) 847 - 5093
Trainer: Tracy Baer Manager: Lauren Davis
R esources
Horse Show Del Mar, CA
7 & / 6 & 4
Los Angeles, CA
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Del Mar Race Track
LA Burbank Eq. Center
Oaks/Blenheim
(858) 792-4288 show office
Showpark
Riverside Drive & Main Street (818) 567-7317 before show (818) 840-8894 show office
Ortega Hwy & Antonio Pkwy (949) 443-1841 before show (949) 443-1843 show office
(949)443-1841 before show (858) 482-9085 show office
brenout@aol.com www.langerequestrian.com
suzannebes@cox.net www.showpark.com
suzannebes@cox.net www.showpark.com ) 0 5 & 4
Hilton, Del Mar (858) 792-5200 Doubletree, Del Mar (800)481-5900 Marriot, Solana Beach (858)792-8200
Holiday Inn, Burbank (818) 841-4770 Hilton, Burbank (818) 843-6000 Marriot Courtyard, Burbank (818) 843-5500
St Regis, Dana Point (949)234-3200 Ayres Suites, Mission Viejo (949)455-2545 Doubletree Suites (949)661-1100
% * / * / (
Beach House, Cardill by the Sea (760) 753-1321 Tony Roma's, Del Mar (858) 794-7662 Milton's, Del Mar (858) 792-2225
B J's Restaurant, Burbank (818) 557-0881 Viva Mexican, Burbank (818) 845-2425 Riverside CafĂŠ, Burbank (818) 563-3567
Beach House, Laguna Beach (949)496-7310 El Adobe, San Juan Capistrano (949) 493-1163 Cedar Creek Inn, San Juan Capistrano (949) 240-2229
5 " $ ,
Mary's Tack and Feed, Del Mar (858) 755-2015
Dominion Saddlery, Burbank (818) 842-4300
El Toro Tack and Feed (949) 770-2291
" Animals and Their People" Photography, Inc.
s how b iz
Congratulates Cathrin on her move to California 303-642-9469 38
Junior News continued from pg 8
Candids
Asheville, NC. I won the Onondarka Medal on my first horse, Caribik. With the solid foundation they provided me I developed a successful show record. I moved on to the 3’6” equitation medals and set my sights on riding in the Jumpers.
1
Now, like a fast forward switch was pushed we are at 2007 and my final junior year. This year I made a lot of changes. I have three new, wonderful horses, and a new trainer. My new trainer, Rusty Stewart at Grey Fox Farm is serious, strict, fun, supportive, and knowledgeable. He has the mileage in the Jumper ring to teach me a lot. Rusty’s wife, Kandi, is a great asset in our program because she has a great perspective regarding competition and has a strong, positive attitude. .I’m continuing to develop as a horsewoman and working toward my goals. Getting to ride in all three rings, the hunters, equitation and jumpers, has been a good experience for me. I am exhausted at the end of a show but I love the experience.
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3
I cherish the time I have with my horses, but I am also anticipating the possibilities I might explore after my junior years are complete. I know what I need to do …keep riding, keep learning, keep listening, and keep dreaming. I know that whatever I do, I will apply the discipline I’ve learned as a rider and a competitor and I will be better because I know how to “stick with it”.
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6 Top to bottom... 1. Leopoldo Palicios 2. Francie 3. Nick Haness, Alison Sherred, Jill Humphrey 4. Tom Selleck and wife Jilli Mack 5. Special friends we meet at Spruce Meadows 6. Mary Tyng takes a shade break 7. Will Simpson and son take a much needed rest
7
So here we are, on an adventure with Juniors in mind. This column is intended to be a forum for the thoughts and experiences of all the Junior riders, especially those who are in their last junior year. I welcome your thoughts, questions, suggestions and ideas so don’t hesitate to contact me. califshowbiz@AOL.com ..put “Whitney” on the subject line!!!
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G ra phic Des i g n
3 -D M o delin g
Web site D esig n
Ph o to g r aphy
“Proud to be a part of California ShowBiz Magazine� For ShowBiz Advertising Rates and Deadlines Contact Kathy @ (714) 797 - 1404 Email: califshowbiz@aol.com 805.482.4122 41
info@workinglens.com
C alendar
Horse Show
Covering the West Coast MAY
JULY
AUGUST(cont.)
Showpark Ranch & Coast Del Mar, CA May 8-13
Golden Gate Classic Woodside, CA July 4-8
Woodside Back-To-School Classic Woodside, CA August 24-26
High Prairie Spring Preview Parker, CO May 10-13
Colorado Circuit Opener Parker, CO July 11-15
High Prairie Spring Classic Parker, CO May 17-20
Rocky Mountain Classic Parker, CO July 18-22
Showpark All Seasons Summer Tourn. Del Mar, CA Aug. 29 - Sept. 2
Memorial Day Classic Horse Show Los Angeles, CA May 24-28
GO Preview Oklahoma City, OK July 18-22
Showpark June Jamboree Del Mar, CA May 31-Jun. 3
Showpark Summer Festival Del Mar, CA July 18-22
JUNE
Colorado Summer Classic Parker, CO July 25-29
Woodside Spring Classic Woodside, CA May 3-6
Oaks Blenheim June Classic I San Juan Capistrano, CA June 6-10 Oaks Blenheim June Classic II San Juan Capistrano, CA June 13-17 Oaks Blenheim June Classic III San Juan Capistrano, CA June 20-24 Woodside Circuit Opener Woodside, CA June 21-24
Colorado Circuit Preview Parker, CO July 4-8
Showpark Racing Festival Del Mar, CA July 25-29 GO Show Oklahoma City, OK July 25-29
AUGUST
Showpark August Festival Del Mar, CA August 1-5
Oaks Blenheim Red, White & Blue San Juan Capistrano, CA Jun. 27 - Jul. 1
Oaks Blenheim Summer Classic I San Juan Capistrano, CA August 8-12
Bay Area Summer Festival Woodside, CA Jun. 27 - Jul. 1
Oaks Blenheim Summer Classic II San Juan Capistrano, CA August 15-19
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Showpark Summer Classic Del Mar, CA August 22-26
SEPTEMBER
High Prairie Fall Preview Parker, CO September 6-9 Oaks Blenheim Fall Tournament San Juan Capistrano, CA September 12-16 High Prairie Fall Classic Parker, CO September 13-16 L.A. International Jumping Festival Los Angeles, CA September 19-23 Woodside Fall Finale Woodside, CA September 27-30
OCTOBER
Las Vegas November Festival Las Vegas, NV Oct. 31 - Nov. 4
NOVEMBER
National Preview Horse Show Los Angeles, CA November 7-11 L.A. National Horse Show Los Angeles, CA November 14-18
C ONGRATULATES S HOW B IZ ON THE LAUNCH OF THEIR NEW MAGAZINE BLENHEIM EQUISPORTS Host of the 2000 and 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Trials and 2002 USEF WEG Selection Trials
For Blenheim EquiSports 2007 Show Schedule visit
www.showpark.com 30753 La Pata San Juan Capistrano, California 92675 949.234.1696
Photography courtesy of Tish Quirk and Eddie Perlas.
P
rofessionals Directory
Y ou r C onn e c t i on t o I n d u s t r y P r o d u c t s a n d S e r v i c e s ANZA
Camarillo’s
Premiere Training , Transport & Rehab Facility
Woodgrove Farm 2908 Avenida Pimentera Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 944 - 3508 Contact: Guillermo/Lynn Obligado
CERRITOS
Rusty & Kandi Stewart www.greyfoxfarmhorses.com e-mail: greyfoxfarm@verizon.net
CARLSBAD
First Field Farm 18299 Dumont Ave. Cerritos, CA 90701 (562) 924 - 2217 Contact: Carolyn Biava
3165 Subida Circle Camarillo, CA 93012 Rusty: (805) 432.6770 Kandi: (805) 432.6774 Fax: (805) 491.8327
COSTA MESA
BURBANK
Fox Pointe Farm 2973 Harbor Blvd. Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (714) 708 - 1662 Contact: Kathy Hobstetter
Griffith Park Farms, Inc 480 Riverside Drive Burbank, CA 91506 (818) 841 - 4024 Contact: Mark Farndale
CALABASAS
Acres West 23200 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 591 - 7190 Contact: Leslie Steele Far West Farms 5155 N Old Scandia Lane Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 591 - 2180 Fox Creek Farm 26047 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 880 - 1458 Contact: Lucy Stewart
CAMARILLO
Grey Fox Farm 3165 Subida Circle Camarillo, CA 93012 (805) 432 - 6770 Contact: Rusty Stewart
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DANVILLE Boundry Gate 5320 Camino Tessajara Danville, CA 84588 (925) 248 - 4947 Contact: Heidi Cowley
DEL MAR Brawley Farms 2683 Via de la Valle, #G602 Del Mar, CA 92014 (760) 801 - 6655 Contact: Bob Brawley
P
rofessionals Directory
Y ou r C onn e c t i on t o I n d u s t r y P r o d u c t s a n d S e r v i c e s
DEL MAR(cont.)
MALIBU
ENCINITAS
PASADENA
Hap Hansen Training Stable 2530 Lone Jack Road Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 436 - 0639 Contact: Hap Hansen
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Fairview Farm 32356 Mulholland Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 (818) 597 - 7927 Contact: Erin Rorabaugh
Marcia Williams Stable 1011 Paladora Avenue Pasadena, CA 91104 (323) 255 - 5822
MENLO PARK
Portola Valley Training Ctr. J Alden Enterprises Menlo Park, CA 94025 18381 Goldenwest Blvd. (650) 854 - 2607 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Contact: John Charlebois Farm (714) 847 - 1008 Contact: Ginny Spooner/Scott McFall
MODESTO
LA CANADA
Flintridge Riding Club 4625 Oak Grove Drive La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011 (818) 952 - 1289 Contact: Liz Denny
LAKEVIEW TERRACE
Freeway Farms 11700 Little Tujunga Canyon Road Lakeview Terrace, CA 91342 (818) 834 - 2577 Contact: Lisa Stoway Meadow Grove Farm Middle Ranch (818) 890 - 6099 Contact: Dick Carvin/ Francie Steinwedell New Haven Farm 11127 Orcas Avenue Lakeview Terrace, CA 91342 (818) 686 - 8577 Contact: Randy Durand Stacie Ryan Hansen Dam Equestrian Center 11127 Orcas Avenue Lake View Terrace, CA 91342 (818) 921 - 9264 cell: (818) 309 - 5001
Light Acres 5318 Coffee Road Modesto, CA 95357 (209) 578 - 0599 Contact: Sue Lightner
RANCH SANTA FE
Mark Conley Box 675788 Ranch Santa Fe, CA 92067 (858) 259 - 1148
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Ivy Gates Stable 28411 San Juan Creek Road San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 (949) 443 - 1903 Contact: Mary Morrison
TEMECULA
Endar Equine 37457 Avenida Chapala Temecula, CA 92592 (866) 363 - 2737
Advertise Your Business Here
Steller Farm 40920 Vis Los Altos Temecula, CA 92591 (951) 704 - 6802
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Directory of Advertisers
Candids
Blenheim.........................Inside Front, 2, 43 Cathrin Cammett........................................38 Charlebois Show Stables.........................15 Del Mar Horse Show................................47 Eden Equestrian Center.......Back Cover Fox Pointe Farm....................................28-29 Hayden Show Jumpers................................5 Leone Equestrians................................32-33 Meadowgrove................................................18 Morning Shadows Farm...........................12 Phelps Sports Media..................................39 Rainbow Canyon Ranch...................18-21 Shadowbrook Stables....................................9 Thumbs Up Farm................................12-13 Waldenbrook.........................................24-25 Whitethorne......................................................7 Windsong Farm.....................................36-37 Working Lens Productions.......................41
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Top to bottom... 1. 1.10 Silver Medal Team gallops 2. Anne Kursinski directs course set up 3. Rusty Stewart 4. Butch Thomas heads for the Trainers box 5. Jeni Brown and her much supportive husband 6. Jason McArdle 7. Allison Van Sickle and Brittney Allyn relax 8. Ali amid friends
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Eden Equestrian Center
Paradise for both horse and rider, this beautifully lavish equestrian facility now has full care stalls available for the select boarder. Eden Equestrian Center is also seeking an accomplished hunter/jumper training professional.
For inquiries, please contact Kimberlee Drake (949) 295-2000
Chino, CA
Training, Boarding & Lessons available.
Photo Š Equestrisol
www.edenequestrian.com / kimberlee@edenequestrian.com