C O N N E C T IC U T
HORSE
NUTMEG STATE POLO OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE
COCKAPONSET STATE FOREST TRAIL GUIDE
SECOND CHANCE RANCH RESCUE July/August 2018 connhorse.com $4
LEND A HOOF
TROWBRIDGE’S LTD FARM FEATURE
CYNTHIA JENSEN HORSEPERSON FEATURE
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July/August 2018
Connecticut Horse
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Stacey Stearns
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Lara Rudowski
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Lara Rudowski
July/August 2018
photo courtesy of Simsbury Polo Club
contents
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features 8
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Nutmeg State Polo Opportunities for Everyone
Cynthia Jensen
Grand Dame of Connecticut Horse Shows
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Trowbridge’s LTD
Arabians and So Much More
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Farm Feature
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Cockaponset State Forest Trail Guide
Second Chance Ranch Equine Rescue Lend a Hoof
Horseperson Feature
in every issue 5
From the Publisher
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Partners
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The Neighborhood
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Your Letters
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Nutmeg State Events Calendar
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Is This Your Horse?
Overherd: News in Our Community
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This Olde Horse
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July/August 2018
From the Publisher This issue’s letter is from feature writer and reporter Sally Feuerberg.
I
’m truly blessed. I love what I do and eagerly look forward to the start of each day. You see, I ride horses, I write about horses, and I cherish every opportunity to do either. Horses have been a passion for as long as I can remember. It started with my first rocking horse (Trigger) at age three and today three horses call my backyard home. Horses have filled my life with adventure, challenge, and most of all, unabashed joy. As for writing about horses and the people who love them, that happened much later, but the desire to share my experiences and feelings on anything equine related must have been waiting for just the right moment to awaken. I left the engineering field fairly late in life, apprehensively wondering what direction my career would take. It was a little bit scary, not knowing what I wanted to do, or if I was good enough at anything else to take the chance at a new beginning.
It was then, in the summer of 2015, that I met Connecticut Horse’s publisher, Stephanie Sanders. She’d contacted me about the Middlebury Bridle Land Association becoming a partner organization with Connecticut Horse. She asked
if I’d be interested in contributing an article. It just so happened that I’d recently volunteered in a wonderful program for first graders, Horse Tales Literacy Project at Trowbridge’s in Bridgewater, and I wrote about the experience. To see my words published was thrilling!
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It’s been three years since that first article and I still look forward to each new feature writing assignment and event-reporting opportunity. I’ve covered so many different disciplines. All have made me appreciate the diversity, dedication, and fascinating dimensions of the horse community even more. I’ve met and interviewed individuals of all ages and riding levels. I get excited when I see their eyes light up as they tell of their triumphs, accomplishments, and equine devotion. I’ve also deeply felt the heartbreak when a story is told of that one special horse, no longer with us, that impacted their lives and still lives in their hearts. I’ve been to countless barns and stables, ranging from the most opulent to the simplest of structures and each has one very special thing in common — they’re places where humans and horses learn, grow, and most of all, form a unique partnership like no other. Let the adventure continue!
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HORSE vol. 4, no. 1 July/August 2018
ISSN 2378-5721
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Andalusian/Percheron Principe Curioso, a.k.a. Oso, owned by Gray Friesian Farm/Sonnenhof Equestrian Center in Easton. ©Jeanne Eleck
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the fine print The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Connecticut Horse staff or independent contractors, nor can they be held accountable. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for any misrepresentations or any copyright infringement on the part of advertisers. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for typing errors other than a correction in the following issue. All letters addressed to Connecticut Horse, its publisher, editor, and staff are assumed for publication. Photos, stories (verbal or printed), notifications, news items, and all other material that is submitted, including all materials and photos not specifically solicited by Connecticut Horse, are assumed to be legally released by the submitter for publication. Connecticut Horse assumes no responsibility for damage to or loss of material submitted for publication. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of all materials.
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Your Letters To the Editor:
To the Editor:
Thank you for the great article in Connecticut Horse about the Connecticut Horse Shows Association [Riding Forward Together: The Oldest Equestrian Clubs in the Nutmeg State, May/June 2018]. We’ve had a lot of wonderful comments about the article and appreciate what Connecticut Horse is doing for the horse community here in the Nutmeg State and in general. Your articles and news are always interesting and informative. I especially enjoy reading about some of the farms and people that are ordinary folk like us. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Stephanie and Connecticut Horse [for the Connecticut Horse Youth Award]. The award package arrived today and we’re so happy to be able to present this youth award to a deserving individual. Thank you so much for sponsoring this.
Peter B. Mann, president Connecticut Horse Shows Association
Club Spring Show. Great pics!
Dianne Kuzmickas, Full Circle Farm, Manchester
To the Editor: Thank you Connecticut Horse for covering th Ox Ridge Hunt Ox Ridge Hunt Club Facebook Page
To the Editor: Beautiful pics from Connecticut Horse of our ride at the Mark Rarick Clinic at the Stables at Westfield in Middletown. Wendy Steele, Middletown
Send your letters to editor@connhorse.com or Connecticut Horse, 99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096.
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Nutmeg State
POLO by Sally L. Feuerberg
Francisco Rodriguez Mera playing for the Audi Team at Greenwich Polo Club in the 2017 East Coast Open.
T
he sport of polo is both captivating and addicting. The ultimate adrenaline rush of the game’s breathtaking pace and intensity, combined with the exquisite elegance and mastery of equine power and agility creates an irresistible energy that is enhanced by the pure unspoken communication between horse and rider performing as one. For the spectator, it’s the appreciation of a game that can trace its origins back to times earlier than recorded history. Put simply, it’s the universal admiration and fascination of the sport’s timeless beauty and athleticism. All of these elements and emotions make polo one of the most exhilarating equestrian sports played throughout the world, and it’s available and easily accessible right here in Connecticut. It’s family friendly and open to horse enthusiasts of all ages and riding levels.
The Basics Polo is unique among team sports in that amateur players, often the team patrons, routinely hire and play alongside professionals. In field polo, two opposing teams of four riders each try to hit a ball into 8
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the other team’s goal. There are offensive and defensive positions but no goalies. The grass field measures 300 by 160 yards. That’s the equivalent of nine football fields or 10 acres! The main rule is called the line of the ball — if someone is hitting a ball forward another rider cannot ride in front of the horse and rider as this may cause a collision. Players can ride alongside and try to hook the other player’s mallet while they are swinging or execute a defensive move, called a ride-off, to prevent the other player from hitting the ball. The line of the ball changes each time the ball changes direction. All riders carry the mallet in the right hand to prevent collisions. Players are allowed to hit the ball from either side of the horse. You may hear the announcer point out a few specific shots, so be on the look out for these: Backshot: A backhand swing propelling the ball in the opposite direction. Nearside: A nearside backshot is hit on the left side of the horse and propels the ball in the opposite direction. Neckshot: Hitting the ball underneath the horse’s neck from either side.
Pony goal: When the ball bounces off the horse and into the goal. As in hockey, fouls are called on potentially dangerous play that infringes on the rules. There are degrees of dangerous and unfair play. Penalty shots are awarded by umpires based on the severity of the foul and where the foul was committed. Field polo is divided into periods of four to six 7.5-minute chukkers, between or during which players change mounts. There’s a four-minute interval between chukkers and a ten-minute halftime. A game usually lasts one to two hours. Arena polo is played with an inflatable ball in an enclosed arena. There are three players per team and the game usually involves more maneuvering and shorter plays at lower speeds due to space limits. The horses used in in the sport are referred to as polo ponies, although the term pony is purely traditional. Horses range from 14.2 to 16 hands and are selected for quick bursts of speed, stamina, agility, and good temperament. Initially, Thoroughbreds or Thoroughbred crosses were used but it’s not uncommon to see mixed breeds participate in today’s polo.
Marcelo Bianchi
Opportunities for Everyone
Lynne Ann Wentworth
Farmington Polo Club’s USPA-certified polo instructor Patrick Marinelli showing a polo school student the proper form in swinging a mallet. Patrick’s also the UConn Collegiate Polo Program coach.
How does polo compare to other equestrian disciplines? “In polo, horses get to use all their skills and movements as they do in their natural habitat,” says Mariana Castro, the director of marketing for the Greenwich Polo Club. “The main difference we hear from other discipline riders is that they were at first overwhelmed by the idea of carrying a mallet while focusing on the riding. But once people start playing polo, they realize that riding becomes second nature. You’re focused on the ball and your teammates, and it allows you to use every skill you have to maneuver your horse on the field, instead of focusing on how you ride. So, you ride more instinctively. And you’re riding with other horses around you without your horse reacting to anything else but your commands and the game. It’s a huge advantage to come from other disciplines and we hear over and over again that it's a freeing experience for them. Polo also has great adrenaline and speed (if you want to) so it's a super fun game, just as a stick and ball practice on your own or participating in a full game with seven other riders.”
INTRIGUED? THROUGHOUT CONNECTICUT, there are many opportunities and locations to watch, learn, and enjoy the excitement of polo.
Greenwich Polo Club One of the nation’s most prestigious international polo venues is the Greenwich Polo Club. As a spectator attending a club match, you can easily be caught up in the contagious enthusiasm watching the choreography of polo’s thunderous dance of speed, endurance, and dexterity. The game is eloquently complimented by the colorful grandeur and historic traditions that surround the field of play. At the Greenwich Polo Club you can immerse yourself in the friendly social atmosphere the sport is famous for, whether you’re sitting in the grandstand box, a player’s lounge, a VIP cabana, or one of the most fun ways to watch the action, sitting on a picnic blanket on the lawn. During polo play, small patches of grass and dirt are torn up by the polo ponies’ quick starts, stops, and turns, creating divots that can be dangerous for the horses. At halftime, the club
encourages spectators to walk onto the field to participate in the classic tradition of divot stomping. Stomping down the divots is extremely beneficial to the players and their mounts. It’s a highly anticipated occasion of any grass polo match! Although the halftime is allotted ten minutes, it’s often longer for demonstrations, or to allow for more fun during the divot stomp. With a Sunday match schedule that starts in June and continues through September 9, the Greenwich Polo Club can draw crowds of up to 2,000 spectators who are customarily treated to the highest caliber of polo competition with some of the sport’s most legendary players. “Greenwich Polo Club offers the highest level of the sport in the United States summer season,” says Mariana. High-goal polo travels across the world: January through April in Florida, May through July in England and Spain, June through September in Greenwich, and September through December in Argentina [highest level in the world].There’s some great high goal polo in other locations of the world as individual tournaments or exhibition matches, but as a season, these locations have several established tournaments. “One of the best ways to explain the level of the sport is that for every game we play (we have nine public matches out of the fifty-plus we play each season) there are more than 80 horses on the field. During the season, Greenwich will see close to 500 horses on its fields. But you can also play polo without owning a horse or just owning a couple. Don't get intimidated, this is like the NFL of polo! There’s polo for all levels and ages, especially in the Northeast.” Although there is no polo school at the Greenwich Polo Club, the club is dedicated to the growth of the sport. Whether you’re an athlete who wants to try something new and different, or an experienced polo player wanting to improve your skills for the upcoming season, the club encourages those who may be interested or curious about the sport to take advantage of the numerous opportunities, lessons, and clinics held right here in Connecticut.
Yale Polo Club The Yale Polo Club is among the oldest clubs in the state (1903) and can lay claim to having one of the most successful collegiate teams in the United States. Located at the Yale Polo and Equestrian Center in Bethany, the Yale Connecticut Horse
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Chichi Ubina
Cornell University student Shariah Harris making history as the first African-American woman to play highgoal polo in the United States. Shariah played in the 2017 Silver Cup Polo Match for the Postage Stamp Farm Polo Team at the Greenwich Polo Club on June 30, 2017.
Polo Club includes offerings for all levels, from beginners to advanced, including programs for intercollegiate, interscholastic, middle school, and adults.. A Club Chukkers group is held weekly for advanced players of all ages. Private lessons are available for more intensive swing analysis and training, and group lessons are offered that include swing training skills, practice chukkers, and horse management. During the summer session, the club transitions to grass polo, partnering with the Giant Valley Polo Club in Hamden. Matches in the Hamden location take place on Sundays, and practice chukkers are held on Thursdays. Polo matches are held June through mid-September. Yale’s string of 30 ponies range from 10–15 years old and have been donated to the team from different polo backgrounds. The horses have a wide range of experience levels, size, and, most important, all have suitable personalities for polo. Branden Van Loon is the club’s program manager and coach. He organizes all polo activities for the club and oversees the care and maintenance 10
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of the horses. Liz Brayboy, a Yale alumna, is the president of the Yale Polo and Equestrian Center board and is actively involved in the club. She’s served as an undergraduate manager, coach, interscholastic and beginner lesson instructor, and alumni advisor/ manager. She’s also a certified umpire, a Yale Polo and Equestrian Center board member, and a United States Polo Association (USPA) rated player. “I began playing polo as a freshman in college,” says Liz. “I was introduced to the sport by a friend of my brother who played with the club at Yale. I’d always loved to ride and loved horses but didn’t know anything about polo. It was a way for me to stay involved with horses without having my own. This is the great thing about the Yale polo program — the fact that someone can learn the sport and begin playing competitively without having to make the big investment in ponies and equipment. By offering programs to all ages and levels, Yale polo extends that opportunity to people well beyond New Haven.” “Learning to play polo in an arena provides a safe, controlled environment
for someone new to the sport,” says Liz. “At Yale, we have the facility, ponies, and equipment for horses and humans so that a new player can try it out before committing further. In addition, we have opportunities to play in practice chukkers, compete on teams, and, through our partnership with Giant Valley, practice and play on the grass field as well. We have lesson programs and clinics for middle school, high school, college, and adult players. Our players range in age from six to sixty-six!” The DeAngelis family plays at the Yale Polo and Equestrian Center. “I actually met my husband playing polo in Newport, Rhode Island,” says Julie, mom of the family. “I was playing for the Newport team and my husband Jim was captain of the Yale team. That was twenty years ago.” Keeping this family tradition alive and flourishing are their 12-year-old daughter Sophia and their seven-yearold son P. J. “I got interested in polo because I grew up with horses and my family plays,” says Sophia. “I decided to try it. Plus, I love horses!” When asked what she likes the most about polo, she’ll tell you, “riding different horses and galloping fast! I love my horse and people teammates.” “Riding horses with my family and hitting the ball!” P. J. says are his favorite things about polo.
Farmington Polo Club The Farmington Polo Club was started in 1929 and has not hosted polo since the mid-1970s. It’s been used over the years for a variety of equestrian competitions, most notably the Children’s Services Horse Show, run by former owner and trainer Hugh Kerrigan. The club now has a new dedicated owner and is once again an active member club with the USPA. “We want to use the property, which is sixty-plus acres of beautiful level grassy areas along the Farmington River, as a community focus where polo and other equestrian competitions can be used as a backdrop for corporate events, fundraisers, and family fun,” says Jennifer Williams, club manager and USPA-certified polo instructor. Jennifer was hired in 2016 to develop the facility and transition the club into an international equestrian center. Today, the Farmington Polo Club offers a polo school, a full schedule of matches, numerous charity events, and tournaments with teams
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and players from all over the world. “We are family friendly, philanthropically focused, and community engaged,” says Jennifer. “Polo isn’t just for kings and queens. Anyone can play polo and attend a match. Our environment is very casual and welcoming.” “We’re open to boarders, and we have thirty stalls, multiple paddocks, a large practice field, a regulation-size field, and a state-of-the-art arena,” says Jennifer. “Our school is open to all ages and levels and we also offer private and group lessons. We have a string of welltrained ponies.” “The requirements to take part in lessons is pretty basic — jeans and boots,” says Jennifer. “We’ll provide the rest, including pony, tack, and all the necessary equipment. There’s also a club manager’s leasable string of polo ponies for more advanced team polo players.” Working with the Cedar View Polo Club in Somers, the Farmington Polo Club team alternates their practices and Thursday coaching chukkers, playing at the Cedar View facility once a week. The Farmington Club’s summer schedule started late in May and will continue through the end of September. From July 23 to August 12, the
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Connecticut Horse
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Learn to play polo! Join us at Yale Polo for Middle School, High School, College, Club, and Corporate Programs.
grounds are closed to polo for the Dream Ride, a motorcycle rally and ride, held from August 3 through 5, featuring a 40-mile cruise through the Connecticut countryside. It’s a benefit ride to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics and the Hometown Foundation. The horses move to an offsite facility and club members will play at the Cedar View location.
Cedar View Polo Club
YALE POLO & EQUESTRIAN CENTER 79 Rainbow Road, Bethany For information about lessons and programs: (203) 393-0100 yalepolo.wix.com/yalepoloteam YalePolo
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The family-friendly theme takes on a new dimension at the Cedar View Polo Club in Somers. John Gale and his wife Debi have in been involved with the sport since their son Drew started playing at Shallowbrook Equestrian Center at age 10. “There isn’t anything else my husband John and I would rather do than watch Drew play,” says Debi. “We also share his love of horses and it’s impossible to imagine not having them in our lives. We’ve met so many wonderful people and made so many new friends as a result of polo and our horses. This will be our third season in our own barn. We built a polo field that has taken almost four years for the grass to grow and mature to the point of being ready for play. Drew, who’s now
23, is a member of the Farmington Polo Club. We’ve joined forces with them and will be hosting practices throughout the summer along with a few games at the end of the summer at Cedar View. We are very excited to bring polo back to Somers!”
Simsbury Polo Club Simsbury Polo Club is a USPA-certified member club based out of Folly Farm in Simsbury. It offers year-round polo lessons, coached arena chukkers, and grass polo to anyone ready to play. Dr. Alison Patricelli, a USPA-certified polo instructor, runs the programming, and is the club’s president as well as being an avid polo player herself. In addition to coaching the members of Simsbury Polo Club’s Polo School, she coaches the UConn High School Polo Team as well as the Simsbury Polo Club’s Interscholastic Team. She’s a veterinary surgeon and the general manager/owner of Folly Farm, where she offers polo practices for those interested in the sport. “My students range in age from as young as six years old to participants in their late sixties, both men and women. It’s a safe, friendly atmosphere with an emphasis on fun!” Alison says. Students begin with a one-hour private lesson to establish their starting point. Lesson fees include horse rental, tack, and mallet, and are conducted in one of two indoor arenas, or out on the grass practice fields, depending on the season. As soon as a student is deemed capable of riding and hitting safely, she’s eligible to get into the game by joining coached chukkers held twice a week. Private lessons and stick-and-ball time are held individually for polo school members. Most chukkers take place in the arena, but in the summer, students are also exposed to grass play. Students play in tournaments three times per year. Lesson participants can also lease polo ponies as they progress in order to play more chukkers and take part in the summer grass polo club. “The Simsbury Polo Club is about playing polo with friends,” Alison says. “In the polo school you learn the three elements of polo: horsemanship, mallet work and hitting, and game strategy. You learn how to be part of a team and help one another. You also learn how to push one another, push yourself, and to do things you thought you couldn’t do, and all of this is done with a smile on your face. As an amateur player, if
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you’re not having fun when you’re playing polo, you’re missing the point!” “I find polo to be the perfect combination of my love for horses and my love for team sports and competition, Alison says. “It’s one of the ways I express my passion for horses. I love everything about the sport and the athletes that play it.” Although the polo school operates year round, Simsbury Polo Club’s Grass Membership allows play from June through August including practices, games, and tournaments. The club is noted for its family fun, field-side tailgating, and free admission, although a $5 fee per car is suggested.
MARIANA SUMS UP the essence of the sport this way: “The beauty of polo is that you can play at any age and level. Just walking around with a mallet hitting a ball can be fun and gets your head out of any possible thought you may otherwise hold. It’s the best way to live in the now. And horses like to play. It’s fascinating when you first realize the horses are following the ball, sometimes faster and more accurately than you!” Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.
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Farm Feature
Lara Rudowski
Trowbridge’s LTD Arabians and So Much More
M
ary Trowbridge and her husband Pat, owners of Trowbridge’s LTD in rural Bridgewater, have a long history with horses and livestock, one that led them to wholeheartedly take over a half-century old enterprise. Trowbridge’s stands famed as one of the longest running Arabian horse breeding farms still in existence today, with a past just as impressive as the work that continues here now.
“It wasn’t on a scale like this,” says Mary, laughing. On the day of my visit, I find Mary in the barn’s office, while her husband handles calls at his desk. She’s in the midst of a busy day herself, working horses and preparing to leave for a show soon. “I got my first horse at six, when I was old enough to carry water buckets,” says Mary. “His name was Ahab the Arab. The sellers told me he was old enough to vote, which at the time was
Jeff Samson
Stuart Vesty
says Mary. “He was one of the few initial breeders to bring Polish Arabians to the states.” Brought together by common interests of business and animals, Pat and Mary married in 1981, but continued to pursue separate careers for years. Pat was dedicated to continuing his family’s acclaimed Angus cow operation and Mary remained immersed in building her knowledge and understanding of Arabian horses.
Stuart Vesty
Bridgewater
National champion Purebred Arabian Hunter Pleasure Junior Horse Legacy’s Diva and her Afire Bey V foal, owned by Vince Sarno. The indoor arena at Trowbridge’s. Riders enjoying the serene beauty of the farm on a trail ride.
A Champion History Countless champions have been bred, raised, and trained at the farm since its establishment in 1968 by notable stage and screen director, Mike Nichols. Although better known for his films like The Graduate and for being one of the few people to win a Grammy, an Emmy, and an Oscar in his career, Mike was also an avid Arabian horse enthusiast for nearly 45 years. The fulfilling pursuit provided him with an escape from life under the gleaming lights of show business and remained a passion through most of his years. Pat and Mary Trowbridge came from different beginnings before taking over the legendary Arabian farm from Mike. While Pat was raised in Corfu, New York, in a family that boasted three generations of Angus cow breeding, Mary grew up in New Hampshire with a love for horses and riding since childhood. 16
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twenty-one, but it turns out he’d already been voting for five years.” Despite his age, Ahab proved to be a wonderful horse and Mary showed him for 10 years until his retirement. She bought an Arabian gelding and showed him until she was 19. She had no trainer and no riding ring. Mary’s semi-annual big outing from the local fairs and competitions she normally participated in was to Springfield, Massachusetts, where she showed at the Eastern States show grounds. Mary’s passion for Arabian horses eventually led her to work for renowned horseman Bill Bohl, at Sir William Arabian farm in Hillsdale, New York. The farm was owned by Leon Rubin, from whom Mike Nichols also imported his prized Arabians. “Leon was one of the first people who opened the Iron Curtain to trading back in the late fifties and early sixties,”
In 1991, the two decided to join forces and go into the business of horses, starting their own Arabian training farm in New York. “I could have chosen any other breed,” says Mary, “but by this time, I’d been around Arabians for years. I loved their sensitivity and the Arabian horse community was great. We enjoyed keeping a lively client base of like-minded people together.” The couple first met Mike in 1994 when he sent several horses to them for training. They soon leased the Bridgewater farm from him while he reinvigorated the breeding program. Mary managed and trained many of the Arabians for Mike. Ten years later, in 2004, Pat and Mary purchased the farm from Mike when he retired from the horse business. Since then, the couple has tirelessly carried on Mike’s strong breeding foundation and cares for every horse with pride.
Heart of the Farm The horses, of course, are the heart of Trowbridge’s glory. They stand, majestic, with an elegant frame and alertness. Their gentle, curious expressions and eagerness to interact with humans is extraordinary. Each one has a distinct personality and sensitivity to its surroundings. One of Mary’s main goals is to educate and introduce people to the uniqueness of the ancient breed. “Arabians are very intuitive,” says Mary. “They have an innate ability to connect with people and look to bond with them.” There are 60 horses currently at Trowbridge’s, and almost all of them have distinguishing bloodlines and/or accomplishments to their name. A Major Fire, one of the stallions that stands here, traces back five generations from Mike’s breeding program. The chestnut stallion has collected numerous awards in multiple disciplines and sired foals that continue his legacy. Another horse, Rock On, is not only a multi-national champion, but also an ambassador who visits at-risk children and people wth disabilities. “Watching him interact with kids is pretty incredible,” says Mary. “We have a barn full of horses that can do that!”
Giving Back Pat and Mary have helped established two nonprofit organizations to benefit both equestrians and larger, nationwide efforts. One, the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund, is a community-driven fund that aids fellow Arabian horse owners in times of crisis. In its 14 years, it’s collected and dispersed more than three million dollars. The second organization is the Arabian Horses Promotional Fund, which manages a number of projects designed to promote the Arabian horse through charitable and educational endeavors for people outside of the Arabian horse community. One of the projects enlists artists from the community to paint stunning life size, fiberglass Arabian horse statues for charity auctions and causes, some of which can fetch up to $100,000. One of the 14-hand statues, named Galaxy, is on its way to California, where it will be auctioned off at a horse expo to support the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “The goal of these programs is to make the Arabian horse relevant and resonate with people in the twenty-first century,” Mary says, of the accomplish-
ments that have stemmed far beyond the front gates of Trowbridge’s.
A Serene Escape Tucked away on a hill in the scenic town, the farm itself is a stunning, serene escape from busy life. The sprawling 20-acre property houses three separate barns with 55 box stalls. The main barn’s aisle stretches endlessly and sunlight streams in through the windows of every stall. Seven large grass turnouts, each molded into the picturesque landscape, surround the barns and hold spacious run-in sheds, equipped with automatic waterers. Aside from a heated indoor arena, two rows of tall oak trees line a gravel path to a beautiful outdoor ring, adjacent to an enclosed round pen and hot walker. The grounds are pristine and the barn is maintained by a dedicated friendly staff, who extend a ‘hello’ to any guests that stop by. Mary is the main trainer for both horses and riders on the farm. This accomplished horsewoman is modest about her personal achievements: the only three-time winner of Professional Horsewoman of the Year, Female Saddle Seat English Trainer of the Year, and Distinguished Service of the Year awards from the Arabian Professional and Amateur Horseman’s Association. Students of all levels come to Mary and she’s always eager to teach them the right approach when riding Arabians. “It’s important for people to realize how Arabian horses react and what they have to offer,” says Mary. “It takes one-eighth of the stimulation and pressure to get through to an Arabian.” Trowbridge’s participates in more than a dozen shows each year, including the U.S. Open held at New York City’s Central Park. They also represent the Arabian in numerous national events and at the Winter Festival in Toronto, Canada. The farm offers several public events as well and partners with local elementary schools for fun, educational, and immersive outings. It hosts an annual Open House in December, where the decorated, festive grounds welcome hundreds to participate in activities, enjoy the food, and, of course, meet the horses! While Trowbridge’s mainly specializes in English pleasure and hunter, some riders partake in a variety of disciplines including driving, western, and relaxing trail rides.
Dawn Bonin Horsemanship
Natural Horsemanship Lessons . Training . Boarding . Sales/Leases Two Outdoor Rings . Indoor Arena Miles of Trails . Versatility Course
See website for upcoming events. Giſt certificates available! Coventry, Connecticut 860-742-2667 (barn) . 860-985-7611 (cell)
DawnBonin.com . BabcockHill.com “We love to welcome new people to the farm,” says Mary. “The United Nations is coming in a few weeks. They visit every year with their hospitality division and bring fifty to one hundred people from all over the world. They get off the bus not speaking the same language and as soon as they see the horses they’re able to communicate.” Trowbridge’s unites riders of all ages with an equal balance of children and adults who appreciate the experience they gain. Mary particularly enjoys bringing in new, older riders, who are beginning the sport later in life. She’s most proud of the commitment and absolute joy they share in learning more about the horses and themselves. “The one thing that stands out about our farm is the quality of the people who decide to support us,” Mary says. “You can be judged by the company that chooses to keep you. We wouldn’t be anything without them. We’re very blessed.” Singer/songwriter Lara Rudowski enjoys performing, spending hours at her piano composing, and writing stories and spoken-word poetry. Inspired by travel and the everyday details of life, she can often be found, camera in hand, at equestrian events capturing her love of horses and riding since childhood.
Connecticut Horse
17
Horseperson Feature New Haven
by Ann Jamieson
Cynthia Jensen
Grand Dame of Connecticut Horse Shows
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and ten miles, and I would go to the stable to help them unhitch the horses. That was my big excitement in New Haven!” After the war, Cynthia’s grandparents treated her to lessons at a stable in Hamden, where she rode “retired saddle seat horses,” she says. “I rode what-
class, coming in third. “It was a learning experience,” she says. “Don’t leave the grounds.” In junior high, Cynthia’s family moved within three blocks of Yale University. She went to the barns at every opportunity to hot walk the polo ponies.
Freudy, NY
Sports Illustrated
hether she’s making sure that horse show rules and regulations are being followed in her role as steward, managing two of the longest running horse shows in Connecticut, or serving various roles in the Connecticut Horse Show Association (CHSA) and Connecticut Hunter
Cynthia (left) after a polo match between the women and men in Manhattan at the Squadron A Armory in 1959. Cynthia today. Cynthia at the Bethlehem Horse Show in the 1950s when she was first switching from riding Saddlebreds to jumpers.
Jumper Association (CHJA), Cynthia Jensen is a familiar figure to all who show in the state. Cynthia knew from the start that she wanted to spend her life with horses. “Oh heavens!” she says. “All I wanted to do was pony rides! I found horses wherever they were and whatever they were doing. I rode everything and anything.” As children, Cynthia and her three sisters “got packed off to camp in Maine during the war [World War II]. My dad was in England,” Cynthia says. “The camp had riding; it went for 10 weeks. I attended for eight years and that’s where I really got hooked on riding.” The family lived in New Haven so there wasn’t much riding available in the city. Because of the war and gas rationing, there weren’t many cars around. “They delivered the milk with horse carts,” says Cynthia, “I always waited. It was Brock Hall Dairy and I would follow them back to the stable on my mother’s bike. It was between five 18
July/August 2018
ever seat happened to be available.” She was lucky enough to be chosen to ride in her first show on Chief, a threegaited horse in his 20s. The show was held at the New Haven Arena, an indoor arena on Grove Street in New Haven that was demolished in 1974. On the way to the show, the horse van broke down. Chief was hitched to a cart and driven right through the center of Yale past the New Haven Green, arriving at the show a scant five minutes before the start. “They unhitched him, threw me up, and sent me into the ring,” says Cynthia. “It was very, very exciting to show there!” She won her first class of the day, Junior Saddle Seat Equitation. Her father and grandfather were so excited they took her out to lunch to celebrate. Unfortunately, they didn’t get her back in time for her second class, so she missed it. “I was crushed,” she says. As a result she didn’t do as well in her third
When it was time to start thinking about college, Cynthia’s father, a graduate of Yale, wanted her to apply to Smith or Cornell. Cynthia wasn’t interested. She knew that Southern Seminary Junior College had a great riding program, so every time her father came up with a potential college Cynthia would counter with, “How about Southern Seminary?” Like many fathers, he gave in to his daughter. Cynthia went to Southern Seminary. She couldn’t imagine a more appropriate way to choose a college than on the basis of its riding program. As she prepared to leave for school, Cynthia was advised to bring show clothing. She arrived with her black saddle seat outfit, but now she would be headed for the hunter ring. Her family had to buy her all new show clothes, causing her father to regret his decision before she even started school. “Southern Sem is where I learned to ride and hunt,” says Cynthia. “We would ride over to Lexington, Virginia.
Then we would put the horses in the back of the school truck. It wasn’t a van; it was like an overgrown pick-up truck. Six horses would be tacked and loaded into it, and off we would go.” From Southern Seminary, Cynthia moved on to Mary Washington College, where one of the perks was that Vladimir Littauer, the founder of the forward seat of riding, gave clinics at the school. Cynthia attended four clinics during her time there. Learning to imitate Vladimir’s Russian accent (her work in theater enabled her to mimic German, British, Jewish, and other accents), she quickly became a favorite of his. “He was quite the celebrity . . . and was knowledgeable and able to get his point across,” Cynthia says. “There were about eight or nine of us who were allowed the privilege of riding before him. He concentrated a lot on the horses and showing us how to draw out each one’s talent. He had written a book on how a horse jumps and we watched a film about it. It was his mission to show us how the rider impacts the jumping horse.” As a tall, strong rider, Cynthia had the unenviable job of schooling unpolished horses and never got to ride the push-button horses. During a Vladimir clinic, she rode one of these horses. The 16-hand mare (named Sedan) was sturdy with short legs and a straight shoulder. Vladimir gave a brief talk about the mare’s build and how to capitalize on her strength. In 10 minutes, Vladimir had Cynthia trotting a triple of four-foot fences. “He was awesome!” Cynthia says. After graduation, Cynthia played polo, taking lessons with Jack Crawford, the coach of the Yale polo team. Taking lessons in the off-season so it didn’t interfere with the training of the men’s team, Cynthia practiced three times a week and became the captain of the first female polo team in the country. A publicity stunt was set up — a benefit polo game in New York City at Squadron A where the women competed against the men for one game. The game made the front page of the New York Times sports section and Sports Illustrated. “We had a grand time! They only beat us by one point,” Cynthia says. Cynthia took a desk job for a while, working for Connecticut Blue Cross while teaching 4-H’ers on weekends.
But soon she decided office jobs were not her goal: she wanted to teach as her career. In time she taught riding at Miss Porter’s School in Farmington. It was here that Cynthia first learned to manage horse shows. This will be the 44th year Cynthia has managed the St. Peter’s Horse Show, which began as a gymkhana. “It was a bit of disaster,” says Cynthia, so she offered to run it. Starting out on the Cheshire Veterinary Hospital’s hay fields, the St. Peters show had to move when houses were built there and the show grew so big that vans had to park on the street, necessitating a move to the Old Bethany Airport Show Grounds, a turnkey locale. In the 1990s the show ran with four rings (including a ring for Miniature horses — at one time there were 75 in the division). Besides St. Peters, Cynthia has run the Bethany Show for the past 30 years. Cynthia is now president emeritus of the CHSA. Her association with CHSA began decades ago when the organization (the oldest state organization of its kind in the country) was a multi-breed club serving Arabians, Saddlebreds, Morgans, driving horses, and hunters — a little bit of everything. She was asked to join the board of directors in the 1970s, and over time served as secretary, vice-president in charge of rules, and then president for 12 years. In the 1970s Cynthia earned her NEHC judge’s license, and added her USEF steward’s license in the early 1990s. “I like the rules and regulations,” says Cynthia, who enjoys stewarding. She soon cut back on judging assignments as her opportunities for stewarding increased. “I did forty-five shows a year for a while, now I’m down to around twenty,”
she says. A fall down some stairs has left Cynthia using a walker, not a good situation for a steward. “I’m on a walker — ponies love to see me on a walker — they turn into giraffes,” she says. “Thank goodness for super steward Norman Bray helping me out!” Wherever Cynthia stewards or manages a show she’s recognized for her knowledge, integrity, kindness, and helpfulness. Trainer Becca Goberman sums it up best. “I’ve known Cynthia for decades,” she says. “To say Cynthia is the Grand Dame of the horse world in Connecticut is not an understatement. She really is timeless. As a young rider, I would see this stately woman at many of the shows I attended. Her tall stature seemed so imposing to my diminutive five-foot something. “Luckily, my professional career allowed me the privilege of working with her and knowing the kind, funny, dedicated person that she is,” Becca says. “Cynthia has an encyclopedic knowledge of rules, procedures, and history across many disciplines. Her capacity to remember people and horses over the course of her career amazes me!” “Cynthia’s intelligence allows her to see a problem from many viewpoints,” says Becca, “a necessity when acting as a steward and on the board of CHJA and CHSA. The horse world is a much better place for having her in it.” Ann Jamieson is a USEF “r” judge in hunters, jumpers, and equitation and a freelance writer specializing in horses and travel. She’s shown her off-the-track Thoroughbred Fred Astaire to yearend awards in both hunters and dressage, and has also competed in reining on a friend’s Quarter Horse. Ann’s the author of the book series For the Love of the Horse, collections of true stories about horses.
Connecticut Horse
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East Granby
Lend a Hoof
Second Chance Ranch Equine Rescue
by Lara Rudowski
A
Ranch was the creation of two passionate people with a common love for animals. Their desire to do good stemmed from their first slaughterhouse rescue, a pony named Petey, who opened their eyes to the amount of mistreatment and harm that was happening to horses right around them. After quickly outgrowing their first property in Hampden, Massachusetts, Karen and Paul signed a lease on the East Granby stretch of picturesque farmland and set up their new home.
year-old daughter Marcella also volunteers many hours at the rescue. Most calls for help to Second Chance come from abusive situations or owner negligence and places such as the Cranbury Sales Stables auctions in New Jersey. Throughout the year, Michelle raises funds for rescue trips to the auction. There she looks for the horses no one else even sees. She takes a moment to clear up a common misconception. “It’s not the auction that does this to the horse, it’s
Lara Rudowski
Lara Rudowski
sliver of blue sky breaks through the thick morning clouds hovering over large, lush green paddocks that stretch along a back farm road in East Granby. Almost lost amidst the burst of spring are the few horses grazing peacefully in what surely must seem to them an idyllic paradise. Hoofprints drowned in rain on the wet gravel create a pattern of puddles across the front drive. Just outside the dusty red barn doors, Michelle Cormier, barn manager
Fourteen-year-old Brielle Cormier and eleven-year-old Bryce Cormier volunteer at the rescue with their mother Michelle, barn manager and board member.
at Second Chance Ranch Equine Rescue, schools a handful of young volunteers on their first tasks of the day. There’s a to-do list a mile long and attention needed in every corner of the barn. Luckily, she has a group that’s eager to help.
Second Chances The 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization runs on three things — fortitude, compassion, and dedication. It’s no easy road for the volunteers and horses that find themselves here. Fortunately, Michelle is every bit the tough backbone the organization needs. “I treat this place like it’s my backyard,” she says. “You have to be hands on all the time!” Started in 1996 by Karen and Paul Bacon of Somers, Second Chance 20
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Over the years, their incredible, tireless work has attracted the attention of many in the area, including Michelle, a woman with a big heart, who’d grown up with horses and wanted to get involved with them again. Michelle quickly proved a hardworking asset to the Bakers and in late 2010, she joined the board and became barn manager, increasingly running much of the rescue herself. A school bus driver for the town of Suffield and a mother of six, Michelle already has a lot on her plate. Her two youngest children, 11-year-old son Bryce and 14-year-old daughter Brielle, both inherited their mother’s love of horses and are there to feed, brush, and share some extra, much needed love with the rescue residents. Michelle’s 23-
the people who brought it there,” Michelle says. In her eight years she’s rescued dozens of horses, more than she can recall, and has learned stories she wishes never had to be told in the first place. Yet just one walk through the barn, filled with the sound of whinnies and brays, speaks as the greatest testament for all the good done here.
Success Stories In the first stall on the right, her nose too short to reach even the rim of the stall door, is the ranch’s smallest resident, but she makes her presence clear. Bubbles, a three-year-old Miniature horse, is quite a character with her chalky gray, spotted coat and a mane that no comb can tame. Found alone in a large field, little of her past is clear,
except that she was a complete stranger to human contact. “No one knows how long she was out there,” Michelle says. “She was just seen in a field as a baby wandering around.” The once-timid mini has since become a thief of attention. Her playful attitude coupled with a head full of hair makes her a barn favorite. “I call it a unicorn do,” Michelle says, laughing, ruffling Bubbles’ already disheveled mane. “My son likes to tie it up into a horn on her head. People drive by the field and yell, ‘Hey look, there’s a unicorn!’ ” Next-door neighbor Danki is similar to the mini only in size. She’s a wellmannered spotted donkey who’s been with the rescue for six years. In a terrible case of neglect, Danke was recovered from an animal hoarder who bred and kept more than 60 Miniature donkeys and mules as well as llamas and alpacas. The animals were kept in dog crates stacked from floor to ceiling inside the home, garage, and outdoor sheds. The tips of Danke’s ears were rubbed off and pest-bitten. “We weren’t sure if they would ever grow back,” says Brielle as she peers lovingly into the stall at the sweet, munching Danke, who’s also the ranch’s mascot. Brielle has been busy teaching Danke tricks — the newest success is to bow. “Danke has a great personality,” Brielle says. “She loves to learn.” Outside, where the clouds have finally surrendered to the sun, a beautiful gelding named R. J. walks under saddle in the ranch’s largest round pen. R. J. suffered a severe impact founder injury under his previous owner’s care and developed laminitis. He arrived unable to even stand, but his resilient, even-tempered personality has helped turn his health around. R. J. has stolen the heart of 16-yearold Cyrus Gossett, a volunteer who, like so many that come to offer their help, found herself quickly tangled up in an equine love affair. Now, Cyrus is looking to adopt R. J. It’s her second ride on him and she’s beaming with joy and pride at the progress the two have made in their bond so far. “He’s so sweet,” she says. “He’s one of those horses where you don’t need treats to pat or work with him.” Cyrus attributes all her success so far to the ranch. “I love the atmosphere here,” she says. “They point out when you’re doing something wrong, but don’t make you uncomfortable.” There are also the unexpected sur-
vival stories like that of MacGee, who was found wandering the streets after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The striking, 16-hand chestnut was traced back to his original owners, but they could no longer support him after the disaster. MacGee was the only surviving member of his owners’ 25-horse farm. Luckily for MacGee, Tammi Marren, whose lifelong dream was to own a horse, came along to volunteer and immediately became attached to him. “I stood here on a twenty-degree winter day, petting him for an hour,” Tammie says. “He just stayed next to me and I knew I had to adopt him.” She comes nearly every day to spend time just relaxing with her best friend. “If a horse ever won the lottery, he hit the jackpot!” Michelle says, laughing.
No Place Like Home Fourteen horses currently call Second Chance Ranch home. They’re in ten large paddocks, each with a run-in shed and grass. Roomy stalls allow a safe space for recovery and wooded trails are available to explore. One stall houses a tack shop that sells everything from used saddles to halters and wraps. Blankets are stacked floor to ceiling, organized by size and style. The secondhand shop is open to visitors on weekends or by appointment and all purchases benefit the rescue. Second Chance Ranch takes pride in the work of rehabilitating injured horses back to health and in finding suitable homes for them once they’re well enough. All potential adopters must submit an application and spend enough time with the horse to see if they ‘click’ with one another. While prices are reasonable, it’s the horse’s future Michelle looks at. Adopted horses often stay on to live at the ranch and their caretakers can pay reduced board by continuing to volunteer. A surrender program assures that Second Chance will take back any of its horses if adopters find themselves unable to care for them or pay medical expenses. No amount of help is too small for Second Chance. Monetary donations are the fastest way to cover unexpected vet bills, property repairs, and to bring new horses in to the farm. The rescue is currently focusing on improving and expanding the property, an undertaking that requires not only the funds, but a tremendous amount of manual labor as well. The story of the rescue’s success is
displayed on a brightly decorated, cosmic bulletin board that hangs outside the office. It’s covered in homemade magnets. (A photo of each horse is glued onto a magnet.) “My older daughter Marcella makes them for each of the horses we bring in,” says Michelle, who also admits they’ve gotten a bit behind. “That’s not even half of them. We wouldn’t have room on this board for all the rescues. The greatest gift we give these horses is a forever home. No matter what happens, they always have a place here. A home.” To lend a hoof, donations and sponsorships can easily be made via Paypal by visiting scrrescue.org or by mailing a check to Second Chance Ranch Equine Rescue, 85 East Street, East Granby, CT, 06026. New volunteers are welcome Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The need for volunteers is always there, and so is the reward. Singer/songwriter Lara Rudowski enjoys performing, spending hours at her piano composing, and writing stories and spoken-word poetry. Inspired by travel and the everyday details of life, she can often be found, camera in hand, at equestrian events capturing her love of horses and riding since childhood.
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connhorse.com Connecticut Horse
21
Haddam by xx Stearns by Stacey Stearns
Trail Guide
Cockaponset State Forest
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Once inside the state forest there are two large parking areas up the hill, past the pond. We pulled into the one on the right, and then backed into a spot. You can fit about five two-horse trailers in this lot. If you arrive early enough, before other trail users, you can pull through this one in a horseshoe shape, and leave your trailer pointed toward the driveway so you can
ride, although I did end up on one of them (more on that later)! There are some wood bridges in the forest over streams. Don’t ride over them; they aren’t designed for horses. Ride through the brook instead. We can all agree that it was a tough winter. There were a lot of downed trees from the winter storms, but a crew had gone through and cleaned up
Recreation Area. The Weber Woods parcel, with its aptly named Horse Pond is another favorite equestrian destination. Cockaponset is the second largest state forest in the Nutmeg State at over 17,000 acres. It’s managed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and is in the towns of Haddam, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Killingworth, and Westbrook. It’s named after an indigenous peoples of the Americas chief who’s buried in the Ponset section of Haddam.
just pull forward when you’re ready to leave. The parking lot on the left is up a slight incline, but can easily fit two or three two-horse trailers. There are no restrooms or other facilities. There’s a $15 nonresident seasonal weekend and holiday parking fee at the Pattaconk Recreation Area. Bring your own water for your horses, or haul some in a bucket up from the pond to your horse. Print a map at home; there were none available at the parking area. You can also save a copy on your smartphone if you prefer. There are five printer-friendly maps and three georeferenced PDF maps for mobile apps at ct.gov/deep/cockaponset. To replicate my ride, use the map titled MAIN SECTION, CHESTER & HADDAM listed under Georeferenced Maps. We encountered several hunters in the woods; wear blaze orange if you’re there during spring or fall hunting seasons. We also saw several loose dogs, mountain bikers, hikers, and people fishing. The blue and the blue/red dot trails are foot traffic only. I never saw either of these trails marked on my
many of the trails. I imagine as the season wears on they will continue working on these until everything is clear.
Stacey Stearns
n a Saturday in early May, the mixture of deciduous and pine trees in Cockaponset State Forest in Haddam and Chester was starting to pop with green as my friend Megan Thompson and I rode the trails. There are several sections of Cockaponset State Forest, and two are ideal for Connecticut equestrians. On this ride, we were at Pattaconk
A Leg Up We took Route 9 to Exit 6, and followed the directions from ct.gov/deep/ cockaponset. Cedar Lake Road is the access road for the forest; it twists and turns with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour. Go slow. There are lots of lake rentals, camps, and private beaches in the area on the drive in. I would avoid Pattaconk Pond in the summer months if you prefer rides with few other trail users. I expect the population in this area explodes in the summer as the various lakes and camps draw people in. 22
July/August 2018
Out Riding It Equestrian trails are marked with yellow and red blazes. The Quinimay Trail is a multi-use trail designed for equestrians and marked with yellow diamonds on all of the trail maps and out on the trail. It runs north to south through Haddam and Chester. You need hoof protection as there are lots of rocks and roots. I also liberally applied fly spray and used an ear bonnet. With all of the water in this forest there were plenty of bugs sharing the trails. We rode down the driveway, back toward Cedar Lake Road, and then took a left after a bridge over a stream. We rode toward the man-made waterfall that’s the spillover from the Pattaconk Reservoir. Next we took an incredibly challenging and technical trail along the pond. I was glad I was on a seasoned trail horse! When I mentioned this trail to my friend and fellow equestrian Emily Alger of East Haddam she told
me, “I’ve ripped many sweatshirts riding the trails in Cockaponset!” Trails are very technical around the pond and not meant for horses. It’s tight, single-track trails where you risk hitting your knees on trees every other stride. After we’d completed our ride we realized that we didn’t need to ride this trail — if we’d gone down the driveway a little further, we would have come to the Quinimay Trail that we were supposed to be on! After we came out of the technical trail we went by the three-sided sheds for youth camping, and the trails opened up after that. We’d connected onto the Quinimay Trail at this point and the terrain varied between technical trails, forest roads, and wider double-track wooded trails. We rode the Quinimay Trail for about a half-mile before there was a fork and we headed east (or right)on a forest road. We followed the forest road north toward Turkey Hill Reservoir, and rode around the southern end of the reservoir, and to the west of it. The forest road connects to Filley Road and we rode north on that until the junction of Jericho Road where we headed left, and back in a more southerly direction. Jericho Road connects back to the
Quinimay Trail and we followed this south until it brought us back out by Pattaconk Reservoir. After passing through the parking lot, we rode a three-mile loop on the other side. This loop is the southernmost end of Quinimay Trail, which ends just shy of Route 148. At the intersection of Filley Road (dirt road) on your left, and Quinimay to your right, head north (go left) on Filley Road and it will connect back into the Quinimay Trail and take you back to the parking lot. There were a few places on the trails where we could water our horses. Our horses loved trotting and cantering along the dirt roads — Filley Road and Jericho Road were perfect for this. I frequently caught glimpses through the woods of the sun shimmering off the water of whichever reservoir we were closest to as we rode along the trails. When we rode down the dirt road toward Turkey Hill Reservoir and crossed the bridge, we enjoyed great views on either side. “I love that it’s quiet and peaceful there,” Emily said when we discussed my ride. “Although the trails can be tight, you always have nice scenery.” I heard a few birds singing as we rode, but didn’t really notice any other
wildlife, as Megan and I were busy chatting. We covered 15 miles of trails and there are more left to enjoy another day. I’m looking forward to returning to Cockaponset State Forest and exploring Weber Woods next. Happy trails!
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Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.
connhorse.com
Connecticut Horse
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24
July/August 2018
Overherd
News in Our Community When you realize that the Greenwich Riding and Trails Association has been hosting its annual Greenwich Horse Show for 97 years, words like tradition, dedication, fortitude, and perseverance, come to mind. And when you actually attend the horse show, words like elegant, festive, fun, and gracious can effortlessly be added to the event’s description. The Greenwich Horse Show has been held on the Milliken Estate, one of the most beautiful venues in Connecticut, for 37 of those 97 years. On this particular Sunday, June 10, the weather was ideal. The sky was slightly overcast, keeping the temperature cool and perfect for showing. Along with the hundreds of spectators, there were a multitude of entries, ranging from the youngest of equestrians competing in the Lead Line classes to experienced riders participating in the $500 and $2,500 Hunter Derbies and vying for the $500 High Point Trainer Award. Among the numerous special awards and trophies that were presented throughout the day were the Mike Cullen Memorial Perpetual Trophy, which went to the Grand Champion of the show, and the Gladys T. Busk Memorial Perpetual Trophy, awarded to an exhibitor who, in the opinion of the judges and show committee, shows outstanding sportsmanship, and is in every way a knowledgeable horseperson dedicated to the sport of showing horses in a proficient manner. Judges for the day were Beth Stoltz and Patricia Towle, and Norman Bray was the steward. The manager and course designer was
Daniel Fitzsimmons. Keeping things running smoothly and efficiently were horse show co-chairs Lisa Bailey Cassidy and Rosary Murphy.
n Sally L. Feuerberg
Stacey Stearns Wins Unsung Hero Award Connecticut Horse’s Trail Guide reporter Stacey Stearns of Mansfield recently
outreach through social media and other outlets.” Stacey also brings her leadership and communication skills to other organizations. She’s president of the Connecticut Morgan Horse Association, writes features for both Connecticut Horse and Massachusetts Horse, serves on the town of Mansfield Agriculture Committee, Tolland County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, the Connecticut Greenways Council, and the Connecticut Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer Committee.
very approachable — everyone wants to work with her. She consistently goes above and beyond, without fanfare, and always performs at the highest level. Stacey continues to be proactive, recognizes situations and opportunities, and moves quickly to identify solutions.” “Stacey transformed Extension’s agriculture team
n Suzy Lucine
Bob Capazzo_Moffly Media/Big Picture
Greenwich Horse Show
Anna Weiss won the Connecticut Horse Youth Award at the 97th Annual Greenwich Horse Show. Feature writer and reporter Sally L. Feuerberg (left) presented the award and Anna’s trainer Lisa Sherman is pictured to the right.
won the University of Connecticut’s Unsung Hero Award. She’s one of several honorees in the fourth annual employee recognition program, the University of Connecticut Spirit Awards. The annual tradition recognizes the efforts of employees. The Spirit Awards Program is the result of a survey conducted by the Something’s Happening Committee, which found a significant correlation between supportive interactions among colleagues and productivity on the job. “Stacey is a top performer within UConn Extension,” says Bonnie E. Burr, assistant director/ department head at the UConn Extension College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. “Stacey is
— a group of more than twenty educators — and dramatically improved their coordination and productivity,” Bonnie says. “She’s an indispensable component, and they rely heavily on her organizational and communication skills. She also developed and coordinates Bug Week and the GMO working group.” “Stacey has taken leadership of the two point two million dollar federal USDA reporting for UConn Extension and facilitates input from more than one hundred faculty and staff to complete the mandatory report,” says Bonnie. “She also has singlehandedly transformed the communication component of UConn Extension — expanding both the quality of the content and the public
Equine Inducted Into Hall of Fame Latino, a 30-year-old favorite of many High Hopes’ participants and staff, was inducted to the Equus Foundation’s Horse Stars Hall of Fame in May. He’s one of 12 horses nationally who earned their place in perpetuity in 2018 in recognition of their stellar athletic performances and inspirational impact on people. For Latino, it’s the latter that has brought him the love and admiration of all who meet him. Latino, a Shire-cross, was donated to High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center in Old Lyme in the late 1990s. Since then, his stoic, unflappable demeanor has provided myriad visitors to High Hopes with their memorable first ride. Latino follows in Poncho’s footsteps, another High Hopes horse inducted in 2012. The Horse Stars Hall of Fame was established in 2013 by the EQUUS Foundation and United States Equestrian Federation to celebrate the extraordinary talent of horses and to tell the stories of their amazing accomplishments. Connecticut Horse
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Geoff Teall Clinic Fairfield County Hunt Club held a two-day riding clinic with Geoff Teall April 14 and 15. Geoff is a nationally renowned trainer, judge, and author. With more than 40 years of experience, Geoff travels extensively in North America and Europe teaching and judging. The clinic was divided into two-hour sessions and three heights of jumps were available to the participants. Each class had a maximum of six riders. Among the many topics that were covered were horse show preparation and proper pacing during the walk, trot, and canter gaits, appropriate stirrup length, and the correct placement of the foot in the stirrup to permit flexibility of the ankle, as well as to allow the leg to be kept low, deep, and close. In addition, Geoff discussed the origin of certain bits and reviewed the various parts of the bridle, along with an explanation of
the correct usage and handling of each. He stressed that contact with the horse should be steady, even, relaxed, and supple. The last session on Saturday was followed by a question-and-answer presentation, “Through the Judge’s Eyes with Geoff,” which was held at the clubhouse. Geoff’s focus was on lateral and indirect aids and riding your horse into light contact with a light seat.
n Sally L. Feuerberg
Nutmeg State at the Devon Horse Show The 122nd Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, held May 24 to June 3 in Devon, Pennsylvania, lived up to its rich history of world-class competition as well as a fun and exciting country fair with rides, great food, and shopping choices. Horses and ponies of many breeds were shipped to the show from across the U.S. and several other coun-
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tries. Wayne Grafton was the show’s chairman and CEO, and David Distler and Peter Doubleday returned as show managers. A talented staff and a host of dedicated volunteers assisted them. Several Connecticut residents were pleased with the performances of their horses and ponies that took them into the winner’s circle in the prestigious Dixon Oval. Cheryl Innis and Ricky Harris of Somers had a great show in the Roadster Division. Cheryl drove her Hackney pony mare One Hot Mamma to the Reserve Amateur Road Pony Championship. Ricky drove his Standardbred gelding My Casey to second-place honors in the Open Roadster to Bike Class. Trainer Rodney Hicks sat in the sulky and drove My Casey to the Open Roadster to Bike Championship. Greenwich resident Patricia Shanafelt rode her aged mare Amber One Up to top honors in the Open To
Any Breed (OTAB) Hunter Pleasure qualifying class and championship. She rides under the direction of Nicholas Villa of Nicholas Villas Stables in Union. This was the first time this open division for the saddle seat breeds was held at Devon. The new division, as well as the recently added Open Pleasure Driving Saddle Seat and Open English Pleasure Saddle Seat Divisions, bring great excitement by inviting American Saddlebreds, Friesians, Hackney Ponies, and Morgans into the ring at the same time.
n Suzy Lucine
Overherdisms • “I hate course walks. Do you know how much of my life I’ve wasted pretending I know how to walk strides?” • “When you finish a great pattern, don’t you just want to raise your hands up and yell, ‘Tada!’ ”
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Partners Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Nutmeg State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program. Connecticut organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member; space in the magazine for news, events, and photographs; and a link from connhorse.com to its website. Interested? To learn more, email partners@connhorse.com.
dents as well as those who utilize the forest banded together to form Friends of Pachaug Forest, a nonprofit organization whose mission is “to protect and preserve the forest and surrounding areas.” The location of this facility would have a direct
operation, maintenance, and enhancement of state parks. The resolution proposing an amendment to the State Constitution to Protect Real Property Held or Controlled by the State also passed. This resolution amends the state constitution
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Trainers and participants in the Connecticut Horse Council Horse 911 Program hosted by the Cheshire Horse Council in May.
Howard Schatzberg
Over the past several months legislative alerts were sent via email asking members to write to their representatives and legislators on the committees where the bills were heard. Three of the bills we were addressing made it to hearings; unfortunately one of them did not pass. A big thank you to all members who took the time to address their legislators and participated in the legislative process. The Save Pachaug State Forest Initiative failed to pass. Bills and amendments were presented to stop the Firearms Training Facility, and we’re hopeful these can be addressed in next year’s legislative session. The State of Connecticut, the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) have chosen the most desirable equestrian trail riding location as the future site for a new Connecticut State Police Training Facility. The proposed facility would be situated in and around Pachaug State Forest in Griswold. Pachaug State Forest (part of the Last Green Valley) is 27,000 acres of dense forest and wildlife, precious wetlands and streams, and is a flyway for migrating birds. Area resi-
Diane Ciano
Connecticut Horse Council
CMHA show chair Kristina Vine presenting the Hall of Fame award to MEM Just My Style’s owner Linda Barber and family along with handler Percy McDaniel.
negative effect on visitors, hikers, horseback riders, campers, hunters, kayakers, and many others who enjoy the outdoors. To learn more, contact Pam Patalano, chair of Keep Griswold Quiet/Save Pachaug Forest, at (401) 5331864 and follow Save Pachaug Forest on Facebook. The Passport to the Parks was passed, which eliminates parking fees in all state parks for residents. A $10 fee added to vehicle registration (paid every other year) will generate funding for the
to require that state-owned public lands must receive a public hearing and a twothirds vote before being given away, swapped, or sold by an act of the General Assembly. It’s only through these means that we can ensure that the voices of those who truly own the land are actually heard and ensure that a mandate to dispose of the land truly exists. This is just the first step. We'll need everyone to get out and vote in favor of the amendment this November.
The CHC Volunteer Horse Patrol (VHP) has come a long way from its small start in 2003 — from five patrol areas to more than 88 around the state including town parks, open spaces, and land trusts. As we continue to grow, we’re expanding our riding opportunities and helping to create long-distance connecting trails. Congratulations to all members, because each of your patrol logs, no matter how many hours you patrol and maintain trails, adds to the grand total of statewide hours. This service provides information on how the equestrian community is continuing its effort to maintain trails for multiple use, while promoting and educating the community and other equestrians of our volunteer efforts. The CHC VHP stats reveal the different usages of our parks and forests on various days of the week and the time and types of activities that were observed. Some of these activities take place deep in the forests where adventurous people go to horseback ride, mountain bike, and hike — activities that cannot easily be determined by DEEP staff. Patrols are also recorded in more populated places such as recreational parks and swimming areas. For 2017, we had a total of 876 patrols. There were 1,661 patrol hours logged, saving the state (that’s you and me) $22,640 for 2017 alone. The total savings to the state for our 14 years in volunteer service hours is $772,720! The CHC Horse 911 Program was held in May and was hosted by the Cheshire Horse Council. CHC Horse 911 trainers Laurianne Golulet and Meg Sautter presented the program to the Cheshire Police
Department. Christel Maturo and Diane Ciano were on hand to help. If your organization would like a presentation on barn fire training and fire prevention, and emergency disaster preparedness for your members, or to educate your local fire department and other emergency personnel, please contact Laurianne at cthorse911@cthorsecoun cil.org or (860) 997-6434.
n Diane Ciano
Connecticut Morgan Horse Association The 58th Connecticut Morgan Open Show took place in June with a week of beautiful weather, great performances, and many smiles and laughs. The Connecticut Morgan Show began in 1960 and is one of the nation’s oldest horse shows. The show committee planned a full week of competition of English, western, dressage, hunter, and carriage classes as well as nightly exhibitor parties. The Grooms Jackpot Class was added this year — an in-hand class for grooms and amateur owners. Danny Deloya from Taylor River Farm won with world champion Mastroianni who entered the ring with poise under Danny’s excellent handling. Danny took home a nice jackpot from this special class. On Friday night, the show honored the beautiful MEM Just My Style, owned by Linda Barber, with a Hall of Fame ceremony followed by a celebration. This stallion is a truly amazing representation of the Morgan breed. Percy McDaniel led Just My Style with the assistance of Jerome Parker. These gentlemen were the first and last people to show this magnificent horse. The show overlapped with the Belmont Stakes Saturday evening. The race was projected on the large television screen in the coli-
seum for exhibitors and spectators to watch. Prior to the race, there was a Belmont Party for exhibitors. The silent auction had a good turnout of generously donated items. Proceeds from the auction benefit the Therapeutic Lead Line classes and the Youth of the Year contest. The Youth of the Year contest had the largest turnout in many years, with a total of 22 entrants in the senior, junior, and beginner divisions. The overall winner of the senior division received a $500 scholarship to help fund their trip to attend the Grand National and World Championship Overall Youth of the Year contest representing the Connecticut Morgan Horse Show. Sophie Proctor of Taylor River Farm in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, brought home the tricolor ribbon for the senior division. In addition, reserve champion Caprice Tondalo from Hunter’s Glen Morgans in Cheshire and third place recipient Julia Moura from Reevedale Farm in Middleboro, Massachusetts, qualified for the Overall Youth of the Year competition in Oklahoma. With the closing of the 58th Connecticut Morgan Open Show, the show committee begins to plan for 2019. All exhibitors and barns would like to thank the show committee, photographer Howard Schatzberg, and Serio Video for a spectacular show. See you next year!
n Colleen & Caprice Tondalo
Connecticut Renegades The Connecticut Renegades hosted the annual Border Wars competition with the Northeast Six Shooters on Memorial Day weekend. This annual event originally began in 2006 between the newly formed Connecticut and Massachusetts mounted shooting clubs. The event
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n Allison Forsyth
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Connecticut Trail Rides Association Summer is flying by! Many rides have taken place in the first half of the year. Ginger Tulai and Waneta Lenk hosted a Campout and Poker Ride at the Machamoodus Sunrise Resort State Park in East Haddam. This was a fundraiser for the Friends of Machamoodus Park. There
updates to our official constitution and bylaws. Each article was addressed and voted on. Our new insurance company that requires members to adhere to some additional rules — every member and guest must sign in and out in the registry book located in the pavilion. Sign-ins and sign-outs are required any time a member or guest visits Camp Boardman. For a copy of the updates visit facebook.com/Connecticut TrailRidesAssociation and click on FILES on the left of the screen. I hope to see everyone at camp over the Labor Day weekend.
were Robin Marrotte, Debbie and Frank Turrell, Debbie Cudmore, and Marguerite Dean. Thank you to the numerous volunteers. The ride winners were Elaine Laufer, Raymond Laufer, and Corliss Walsh. On June 10, treasurer Ruth Strontzer hosted a ride at the George Dudley Seymour State Park in East
n Patti Crowther
Fairfield County Hunt Club Jeanne Lewis Images
went on hiatus for a few years, but was brought back in 2017. It has now become a tough competition between the Connecticut Renegades and the Northeast Six Shooters. Riders from Connecticut, New York, and Vermont make up the Connecticut Renegades while riders from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania make up the Northeast Six Shooters. Although the competition is fierce with very good riders from both clubs, this weekend is full of lots of support and encouragement. Both clubs work well together to make the entire weekend a friendly and fun event. By the end of Saturday, the Connecticut Renegades were trailing the Northeast Six Shooters by 29 points (seconds). The Connecticut Renegades had a better overall finish on Sunday with less than two seconds between the clubs, but sadly, we lost to the Northeast Six Shooters for the second year in a row. We may have lost the battle, but several Renegades still had lots to celebrate. Stefanie Fecteau of Torrington competed for the very first time on Saturday. She attended the club’s annual New Rider Clinic in April, continued to practice, and took second place in her class on Levi. Gus Carlson of West Granby won his full Men’s Three class on Missouri and Boz Pultz of New York won his full Senior Men’s One class on Dillon. Christine Boudreau also won her Ladies’ Three class on Drifter, which was the last point she needed to reach the Ladies’ Four class. The Connecticut Renegades’ next competition will be the annual Summer Sizzler on Saturday, July 14, in Bethany. Please join us at any of our events, and be sure to visit ctrenegades.com.
Connecticut Renegades member Stefanie Fecteau on Levi at the Border Wars competition where she competed for the first time and took second place.
Riders at the June 10 Connecticut Trail Rides Association Mountain Laurel Ride at the George Dudley Seymour State Park in East Hampton.
was a pizza party Friday evening after members set up portable corrals for their horses. Saturday evening there was a potluck dinner after a day of riding, with the Poker Ride on Sunday morning. This ride was set up as an obstacle course/trail ride. Several members helped to make this event a success including Bunny Joseph who helped to set up many of the obstacles, judged one obstacle, and helped with the cleanup. Our obstacle judges
Hampton. The ride began at Hurd Park where the mountain laurel was full in bloom, and then took us by the Connecticut River — it was a beautiful day and many boats were on the river. We enjoyed a lunch under the trees before we loaded the horses and headed for home. On the Memorial Day camping weekend, president Lynn Gogolya held a general membership meeting. The constitution committee presented some recommended
FCHC is looking forward to a busy summer. We’ve a large contingency of riders competing at the Vermont Summer Festival for three weeks. Trainers Jenny Martin-Rudaz and Cassandra Orpen will be on hand. You can find our riders in all rings — hunters, jumpers, and equitation. At home, our Summer Schooling Show Series offers hunter and equitation classes from Walk Trot to 3' Hunters and Equitation over “A” show-quality courses. All judges are USEF rated. Upgrades to this year’s series include adding beginner classes for juniors and adults and updating class descriptions to meet today’s standards. The shows have joined the Marshall & Sterling League. We’ll be offering all M & S Hunter Classics and Medal classes. Upcoming show dates are July 11, 18, and 25, August 1, 8, and 22. All are welcome to attend the Summer Schooling Show Awards Banquet on August 24 in the FCHC clubhouse. To learn more, visit Facebook: Fairfield County Hunt Club - Stables or huntclubonline.org. Polo has returned for
n Wynatte Chu
Granby Horse Council Granby equestrians are very lucky to have a beautiful trail system through public and private land that includes forests, streams, fields, and wildlife. However, many riders must travel on and across roads to access the trails. After some close encounters with motor vehicles and the recent death of a resident walking with his ox, the GHC launched a campaign to raise awareness about sharing the road. In Connecticut, equestrians are required to ride or drive at a walk on the right shoulder, single file, with the flow of traffic. When leading a horse, walk against traffic, like a pedestrian. Motorists are required to slow down, pass wide, and even stop if necessary. The campaign began in early spring with
the production of lawn signs and bumper stickers stating PASS WIDE AND SLOW, IT’S THE LAW.
information about GHC member benefits at the information table. As usual, many members stepped up to support this educational event. Among the ground support crew were Ed Geigner, Gus Carlson, Jay Ely, Karyn Cordner, Amanda Lindberg, Allison Mongeau, Sherry Weik, and Diane Morton.
signals. Visitors were invited into the ring to pet the horses. Members provided guidance for safe interaction
Andrew Ryback Photography
the summer. Our members have enjoyed learning polo through clinics by Branden Van Loon from Yale Polo Club and supervised chukker play. In August, FCHC will once again be the host site of the Connecticut Hunter Jumper Association Medal Finals. This year’s judges will be Steve Wall of Pinehurst, North Carolina, and Robin Swinderman Mitchell of Ocala, Florida. Reflections Photography will be returning as the official photographer. To learn more, visit chja.net. FCHC is located on 40 pastoral acres in picturesque Westport. The club is exclusive, yet inclusive — you’re more than just a member at the FCHC, you’re part of our family — where tradition, camaraderie, luxury, and leisure is woven into our fabric. Come experience our resort-like amenities, gourmet dining, first-class sports programs, exclusive events, and vibrant social scene, bustling with family-friendly activities.
Brenda Tanabaum and Quito at one of the Fairfield County Hunt Club Wednesday Summer Schooling Shows.
Sergeant Doreen Mikan of the Granby Police Department attended GHC’s March meeting and led a discussion about road safety. Articles were published in the local newspaper and posted on Facebook following the discussion. The campaign culminated in an event on June 9 in Salmon Brook Park. For a week prior to the event, the Granby Police Department displayed a message on its electronic sign, “Share the Road with Horses and Bicycles. Pass slowly and give space.” On June 9, eight GHC members rode their horses from McLean Game Refuge through some trails and roads to Salmon Brook Park. Riders Lee Shaw, Chris Anson, Joan Davis, Sandy Strain, Elizabeth Stroebel, Steve Strauss, Claire Lovell, and Billie McNealey wore high-visibility vests and Heather Hicks provided road support. Many signs were placed along the road to alert motorists of horses on the road. Kris Strain of the Strain Family Horse Farm in Granby gave pony rides in the riding ring at the park. Cherokee, the trick pony, and his partner Joan Davis showed their trick routine while teaching parents and kids about hand/arm traffic
with horses on foot, on the trail, and on the road. Children had a wonderful time riding stick horses over the obstacle course built by Gloria Ludwig and Bonnie Tyler. Kathy Fisher, Jo-An Boehm, and Holly Ely handed out road safety brochures and provided
n Joan Davis
Middlebury Bridle Land Association The MBLA held its annual Membership Dinner Meeting at Jesse Camille’s in Naugatuck on Friday, April 6. Marian Larkin was the club’s honored and special guest that evening. MBLA welcomed new members Barb and Kaci Michaud, Fran Hornick, Caroline Hennessy, Carlyn Winston, and Diane Horton, the MBLA pace photographer. Discussions took place on the state of the trail system and trail clearing dates were proposed to address
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no longer the most convenient transportation but they do keep us connected, whether you appreciate their beauty and grace from afar or in the saddle. So much has happened since a group
busy this spring and early summer clearing its trails after a long and challenging winter. President Dee Davis acknowledged the hard work and tireless dedication of our trail committee — Karen
Amanda Lindberg
conditions caused by the tough winter and challenging early spring. The spring ride was put on hold until there was an opportunity to inspect the conditions of the trails. In addition, ideas were discussed for other events, including possible field trips and an outdoor equine photography class graciously offered by Diane Horton. Among the items brought up during the meeting was a reminder of the pace date, which is Sunday, September 16, and members were asked to please keep that date open. Members were looking forward to the upcoming feature in the May/June issue of Connecticut Horse on Connecticut’s oldest and longest running horse clubs where the MBLA, which started out as the Middlebury Hunt in 1945, was to be spotlighted. On May 15, a horrific storm damaged, and in some cases devastated, many of the MBLA members’ properties. Degrees of destruction ranged from loss of power to entire fence lines leveled, and numerous trees toppled. Some of the properties are still in recovery mode with ongoing cleaning and clearing, and this process will be continuing for many weeks to come. The Middlebury and surrounding towns’ trail systems were greatly impacted. MBLA vice-president Tom Preston, along with other members of the club, have started working to clear up the mess and are continuing to make significant progress on our trails. The rally cry has been, “One tree at a time, one trail at a time!”
Cherokee and his partner Joan Davis showed their trick routine at the Granby Horse Council’s Share the Road Event on June 9.
Middlebury Bridle Land Association members work on clearing the trails after a brutal May 15 storm that caused destruction throughout the area.
n Sally L. Feuerberg A new equestrian bridge put in by the Newtown Bridle Lands Association.
Newtown Bridle Lands Association Wow, 40 years! The horse of yesteryear was a mode of transportation and a way to connect to others. Today it’s 32
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of equestrians and trail enthusiasts came together and worked to create open space for the community of Newtown. The NBLA has been
Adamshack, Stephanie Lennon, and other volunteers — who have worked on clearing overgrown brush and trees that fell during the spring storms.
The NBLA is pleased to announce that some older and previously forgotten trails have been reopened to equestrians and other trail conservationists at Cherry Grove Farm in Newtown. The Newtown Forest Association, with the help of generous donations and support from its members, NBLA members, and others in the community, was able to purchase a portion of Cherry Grove Farm lands as open space. On June 16, a Spring Pleasure Ride gave horses and riders an opportunity to check out the trails in the area. We would like to thank the Newtown Forest Association for making these trails accessible for equestrians to enjoy along with other open space enthusiasts. Newtown is known for its dedication to preserve open space for current and future generations to enjoy. We’ve been offering our membership the opportunity to participate in our Show and Go Trail Rides throughout the Newtown Community. Newtown is a big area and there are many different trail systems all through Newtown and Sandy Hook. The NBLA enjoys the opportunity to share these trails with our members and is always welcoming new members. In addition to Show and Go activities, monthly meetings with guest speakers and demonstrations related to the horse community are offered. NBLA’s annual Frost on the Pumpkin Hunter Pace will be celebrating 40 years on October 28. All are welcome to ride! To learn more, visit nblact.com.
n Deanna Ray
Tanheath Hunt Club The riding season is now in full swing for the Tanheath Hunt Club. We had a dedi-
Spring Hunter Pace. We designed a beautiful sevenmile course for the 65 riders who competed on May 13. Congratulations to all the winners!
start, checkpoint, finish, registration, and scoring. Plus, a big thanks to those who did the food shopping, food preparation, and set up the bountiful lunch table.
Raymond Hill
cated group of volunteers who met weekly to work with the hounds over a period of months to get them ready for the hound show in Medfield. The New England Hound Show, held May 6 by the Norfolk Hunt Club, was a wonderful success with good weather and eager and fit hounds. We’re very proud of our club’s excellent results. Congratulations to the hounds and humans. Huntsman Sherri Colby and our volunteers have been working with the eight hound puppies — five males and three females — introducing them to voice commands, the hunting horn, and leash walking, all a necessary part of their training. Since their birth in December, they’ve grown like weeds and are quite big now. I can attest that working with the hounds is an educational, rewarding, and fun experience. We had good weather, albeit a little cloudy, for our
The second place team — Donna Smith, Celynna Rightmire, and Karen Anderson — at the June 10 Tanheath Hunt Club Hunter Pace at Tyrone Farm.
A special thank you to club member Deb Cataldo who served as steward for this event. Additionally, many thanks to all the members who worked setting jumps, marking trails, sweeping the parking lot, and running the
Does your organization
The Summer Hunter Pace was held June 10. Although it was cloudy the weather was dry, and we had 86 participants at Tyrone Farm in Promfret on a course that was completely revamped and reconfigured.
Our Master of Foxhounds Bill Wentworth and Tyrone Farm owner Bill MacLaren did an excellent job, providing us with a practically a brand new pace, new trails, and lots of jumps, all in the beautiful scenery that is always Tyrone Farm. There was lots of food and camaraderie and everyone had a good time. A special thanks to club member Celynna Rightmire who was the steward for this event and initiated our PayPal account, which enabled us to book 55 preentries before the day of the event. A big thank-you to all who participated and a special thank-you to our dedicated members who parked trailers, manned the start, checkpoint, and finish locations, signed in participants at the registration table, and provided scoring for the results. Additionally, volunteers worked diligently and continued on page 37 . . .
want to partner with Connecticut Horse? To learn more, visit connhorse.com/ partners.
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Connecticut
July
Events
1 USHJA, CHSA SHOW, Suffield. endofhunt.com.
18 CJHA SHOW, New Canaan. newcanaanmountedtroop.org.
1 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com.
18 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org.
1 SSF SHOW, Stepping Stone Farm, Ridgefield. steppingstonefarmct.com. 1 TSHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. tristatehorsemen.com. 1 CCBA OPEN SHOW, Glastonbury Hunt Club, Glastonbury. connecticutcolorbreed.com. 1 CHJA SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com. 1 ANN GUPTILL DRESSAGE CLINIC, Morris. foxcrossingequestrian.com. 5 – 8, SHORELINE I SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com. 6 – 7 CROSS COUNTRY DERBY, Horse Power Farm, Canterbury. horsepowerfarm.info. 7 POLO MATCH, Simsbury. simsburypolo.com. 7 SUMMER SERIES SHOW, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com. 7 GYMKHANA, Lebanon. stirrupfunstables.com. 7 – 8 BILL LEVETT JUMPING CLINIC, Town Hill Farm, Lakeville. townhillfarm.com. 8 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 8 ABACUS EVENTS DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, R Folly Farm, Morris. rfollyfarm.com. 8 POLO MATCH, greenwichpoloclub.com. 8 SUMMER DRESSAGE AND MODIFIED HORSE TRIALS, Harwinton. oakendalefarmct.com. 8 CJHA SHOW, New Canaan. newcanaanmountedtroop.org. 8 HUNT SEAT SCHOOLING SHOW, Gales Ferry. mysticvalleyhuntclub.com. 8 CDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Carbery Fields, Lebanon. ctdressage.com. 10 – 14, SHORELINE II SHOW, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.
11 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org. 11 LEVEL 1 RECOGNIZED DRESSAGE SHOW, Bethany. sperryviewfarm.com. 12 POLO MATCH, simsburypolo.com. 12 – 15 ANN HALLER CLINIC, Sperry View Farm, Bethany. sperryviewfarm.com. 13 – 14 NYTS POLO TOURNAMENT, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 14 NEPHA SHOW, Oneco. fallscreekfarm.com.
19 OX RIDGE CHJA SHOW, Darien. oxridge.com. 19 VOLUNTEER TRAINING, Middletown. manes&motions@hfsc.org or (860) 685-0008. 20 – 21 PINK RIBBON POLO CUP, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 20 – 22 TSHA OPEN SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. tristatehorsemen.com. 21 GYMKHANA, Quarter H Farm, Sterling. (860) 779-1699.
14 POLO MATCH, Simsbury Polo Club. simsburypolo.com.
21 UCONN SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, University of Connecticut Storrs Campus. animalscience.uconn.edu/calendar.php.
14 – 15 RRRC BBQ AND OPEN HOUSE, Stafford Springs. reddingtonrockridingclub.org.
22 POLO MATCH, greenwichpoloclub.com.
14 CT RENEGADES SUMMER SIZZLER MEET, Bethany. ctrenegades.com. 14 GYMKHANA SERIES, SaddleView Farm, Bethany. (203) 996-9504. 14 BAROQUE EQUESTRIAN GAMES SHOW, Old Lyme. All breeds welcome. baroquegames.net. 15 POLO MATCH, Greenwich Polo Club. greenwichpoloclub.com. 15 SSF SHOW, Stepping Stone Farm, Ridgefield. steppingstonefarmct.com. 15 CTRA RORABACK WILDLIFE AREA RIDE, Harwinton. cttrailridesassoc.org. 15 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 15 CDCTA SCHOOLING SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. cdctaonline.com. 15 USEA HORSE TRIALS, Riga Meadow, Salisbury. rigameadow.com. 18 TWILIGHT JUMPER SERIES II, Oakendale Farm, Harwinton. oakendalefarmct.com. 18 DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, Fox Ledge Farm, East Haddam. (860) 873-8108.
22 BRV CHJA SHOW, Fair Hill Farm, Easton. bhcmanagement.info. 22 CGA GYMKHANA, Bristol.ctgymkhana.com. 22 CHJA SHOW, Clinton. chja.net. 22 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 22 GHC LONG YELLOW TRAIL RIDE, McLean Game Refuge, Granby. granbyhorsecouncilct.com. 22 CHJA, NEHC, M&S RATED SHOW, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us. 23 CHSA SHOW AND TACK SALE, Fox Crossing Equestrian, Morris.foxcrossingequestrian.com. 25 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org. 25 OX RIDGE CHJA SHOW, Darien. oxridge.com. 28 CTRA MOONLIGHT RIDE, Mowhawk State Forest, Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org. 28 CHJA SHOW AND TACK SALE, Fox Crossing Equestrian, Morris.foxcrossingequestrian.com. 28 CHJA SHOW, Windcrest Farm, Hebron. windcrestfarmct.com.
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28 DRESSAGE/COMBINED TRAINING SCHOOLING SHOW, Salem. treasurehillfarm.com.
5 MYSTIC SUMMER PREMIERE HUNT SEAT SHOW, Gales Ferry. mysticvalleyhuntclub.com.
12 ABACUS EVENTS DRESSAGE SCHOOLING SHOW, R Folly Farm, Morris. rfollyfarm.com.
29 USHJA, CHJA, CHSA SHOW, End of Hunt Equestrian Center, Suffield. endofhunt.com.
5 CTRA SALMON BROOK RIDE, Granby. cttrailridesassoc.org.
12 CTRA ANNUAL AUCTION AND BARBECUE, Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org.
29 OX RIDGE CHJA SHOW, Darien. oxridge.com.
7 POLO MATCH, Simsbury Polo Club. simsburypolo.com.
12 CCBA OPEN SHOW, Glastonbury Hunt Club, Glastonbury. connecticutcolorbreed.com.
29 TSHA DRESSAGE SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. tristatehorsemen.com.
8 CJHA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.
12 SUMMER SERIES SHOW, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers.shallowbrook.com.
29 CT RENEGADES PRACTICE, Bronco Billy’s, Granby. ctrenegades.com.
8 CT RENEGADES SHOWDOWN AT THE AIRPORT MEET, Bethany. ctrenegades.com.
14 CHJA SHOW, Ridgefield. watchillfarmllc.com.
August
8 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org.
1 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org. 4 CHJA, CHSA, NEHC, M&S RATED SHOW, Folly Farm, Simsbury. follyfarm.us.
36
8 VOLUNTEER TRAINING, Middletown. manes&motions@hfsc.org or (860) 685-0008. 10 – 11 CROSS COUNTRY DERBY, Horse Power Farm, Canterbury. horsepowerfarm.info.
15 TWILIGHT JUMPER SERIES III, Oakendale Farm, Harwinton. oakendalefarmct.com. 16 – 19 CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org. 17 – 19 TSHA OPEN SHOW, Falls Creek Farm, Oneco. tristatehorsemen.com. 18 POLO MATCH, simsburypolo.com.
4 POLO MATCH, Simsbury Polo Club. simsburypolo.com.
11 POLO MATCH, simsburypolo.com.
7 GYMKHANA, Lebanon. stirrupfunstables.com.
11 NEPHA SHOW, Oneco. fallscreekfarm.com.
18 GYMKHANA, Quarter H Farm, Sterling. (860) 779-1699
4 CDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Weatogue Stables, Salisbury. ctdressage.com.
11 VERSATILITY FOR HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, Hampton. whatworkshorsemanship.com
19 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com.
4 – 5 FWPHA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.
12 CHJA SHOW, Oak Meadow Farm, East Windsor. rideoakmeadow.com.
19 DRESSAGE SHOW AND TWO-PHASE, Somers. shallowbrook.com.
July/August 2018
20 PATRICK KING HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC, KB Equine, Meriden. kbequine.com. 22 FCHC SUMMER SCHOOLING SHOW, Westport. huntclubonline.org. 22 CHJA SHOW, Watch Hill Farm, Ridgefield. watchillfarmllc.com. 23 – 26 CHSA FINALS, Westbrook Hunt Club, Westbrook. chsaonline.com. 24 USEA AREA 1 CHAMPIONSHIPS, Town Hill Farm, Lakeville. townhillfarm.com. 24 – 26 AREA 1 USEA CHAMPIONSHIPS, Town HIll Farm, Lakeville. townhillfarm.com. 24 – 26 POLO TOURNAMENT, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 25 POLO MATCH, Simsbury Polo Club. simsburypolo.com. 25 GYMKHANA SERIES, SaddleView Farm, Bethany. (203) 996-9504. 25 RANDY MAY MEMORIAL SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, Mansfield Center. donnadunbar498@gmail.com. 26 POLO MATCH, Greenwich Polo Club. greenwichpoloclub.com. 26 CGA GYMKHANA, Moonracer Farms, Bristol. ctgymkhana.com. 26 CEC DRESSAGE SHOW, Coventry. connecticutequestriancenter.com. 26 CTRA STEEP ROCK RIDE, Washington Depot. cttrailridesassoc.org. 31 – September 3 CTRA LABOR DAY CAMPOUT WEEKEND, Goshen. cttrailridesassoc.org.
September
1 MYSTIC SUMMER FESTIVAL SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mysticvalleyhuntclub.com. 2 POLO MATCH, Greenwich Polo Club. greenwichpoloclub.com. 2 CDA SCHOOLING DRESSAGE SHOW, R Folly Farm, Morris. ctdressage.com. 2 POLO MATCH, Farmington Polo Club. farmingtonpologrounds.com. 6 CQHA SHOW, Oneco. fallscreekfarm.com. 8 GYMKHANA SERIES, SaddleView Farm, Bethany. (203) 996-9504. 8 CHJA SHOW, Avon Valley Show Stables, Avon. avonvalleyshowstables.com.
Arbitrage Tack 1886 Watertown Ave., Oakville, CT . (860) 417-2608
Saddle Fitting & Saddles Deb Fabiani, a member of the Society of Master Saddlers and an Independent Saddle Fitter, is available for on-site Evaluations and Dynamic Assessment of Horse and Rider. Whether searching for a new saddle or assessing your current saddle, call us to set up your personalized sitting appointment. New saddles: Amerigo, Bates, Kent & Masters, Lovatt & Ricketts, M. Toulouse, Pessoa, Phillipe Fontaine, Stübben, Thorowgood. Used saddles: Ainsley, Albion, Black Country, Barbier, Collegiate, County, Devoucoux, and many more!
By appointment: arbitragetack@optimum.net
arbitragetack.com
. . . Partners News continued from page 33
thoughtfully to prepare and set up the bountiful lunch. A successful event season, especially hunter paces, enables us to provide the utmost in care and comfort for our hounds. As with most hunt clubs, the bulk of our budget goes to the care and maintenance of our hounds and upkeep of the kennel. We’re very grateful to all who support our events and the volunteers who support that effort. Our next event is our annual Intro to Foxhunting Clinic on September 8 at Tyrone Farm. This is a great opportunity for individuals and horses to learn about foxhunting and then participate in a mock hunt. The day begins with a history of foxhunting and a discussion of the rules, etiquette, and attire. The afternoon will entail a mock hunt with an opportunity to acquaint you and your horse to the sights and sounds of a foxhunt. Hunt club members will be mounted and on the ground to assist participants and answer questions. Over the years many people have joined the club and hunted with us after attending this clinic. Mark your calendars and plan to attend! The third and final hunter pace
will be held September 9 at Natchaug State Forest, bordering the towns of Chaplin, Hampton, and Eastford. This will be another wonderful ride through a beautiful state park and will mark our second year there. To learn more, visit tanheathhunt.com and follow us on Facebook: Tanheath Events.
n Raymond Hill
Connecticut Horse
37
Plainville
This Olde Horse
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How about a nice massage? For your horse! Ridgefield, CT (203) 297-3008 kathy.curran@snet.net
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Alice V. Ennis, DVM : B-C Large Animal Clinic, LLC
132 Westminster Road Canterbury, CT
860.546.6998 . BCLargeAnimal.com 38
July/August 2018
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PORTRAITS BY SHAWNALEE Middlebury, CT, (203) 598-0065 shawnalee.com Charcoals, oils painted by hand.
BABCOCK HILL FARM DAWN BONIN HORSEMANSHIP Coventry, CT, (860) 985-7611 babcockhill.com Natural horsemanship, lessons, training, boarding, sales/leases, clinics, versatility competitions, group lessons, and seminars.
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TEAM MOBILE FELINE UNIT (888) FOR-TEAM everyanimalmatters.org Mobile spay, neuter, and vaccination clinic for cats. BARN CONSTRUCTION
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THE CARRIAGE SHED (800) 441-6057, carriageshed.com Custom-built barns, shed rows, arenas, run-in sheds, Amish crafted.
562 S Main St., Middletown, CT (860) 347-2531 www.midstatetractor.com
KING BARNS (888) 354-4740, kingbarns.com Custom barns, arenas, outbuildings, living quarters, complete design services, fine Amish craftmanship.
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FOXFIRE STABLES Mansfield Center, CT, (860) 543-1399 foxfirestables.net Dressage specialty, board, lessons, training, all breeds welcome. FOX LEDGE FARM, ANN GUPTILL East Haddam, CT, (860) 873-8108 eqarts@snet.net Quality dressage instruction and training; beginner to Grand Prix. SHALLOW BROOK FARM Bridgewater, CT, (203) 788-2122 shallow-brook.com Event, hunting, and pleasure horses; boarding, lessons, sales; 4,000 acres of trails, cross-country fences.
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SPERRY VIEW FARM Bethany, CT, (203) 915-8293 sperryviewfarm.com Dressage, eventing, boarding, professional training, shows, clinics. SPRING VALLEY FARM Westbrook, CT, (860) 399-5000 Hunter, jumper, boarding, lessons. WHIMSY BROOK FARM Redding, CT, (203) 938-3760 whimsybrookfarm.com Boarding, lessons, training, equine therapies, Pony Club. WHITE BIRCH FARM Portland, CT, (860) 581-0307 wbfllcct@gmail.com Boarding, training, trails, lessons, leasing, clinics, indoor arena. BRAIDING
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BRAIDEEZ BRAIDING WIRE braideez.com Makes braiding so easy! See videos and lessons at braideez.com. EQUINE-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES
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MANES & MOTIONS Middletown, CT, (860) 223-2761 manesandmotions.com Therapeutic riding for body, mind, soul. EQUINE MASSAGE
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EQUINE MASSAGE BY KATHLEEN Ridgefield, CT, (203) 297-3008 kathy.curran@snet.net A nice massage, for your horse! EQUISSAGE NE/NY CT, MA, RI, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Integrated body work for performance horses: reiki, Masterson Method, sports and therapeutic massage, myofascial release, cranio sacral therapy.
LITCHFIELD BLUE SEAL STORE Litchfield, (860) 482-7116 LOCK, STOCK & BARREL (203) 393-0002 lsbfarmsupply.com Large-animal feed and pet food. Tack, farm supplies, and power equipment. Blue Seal and Purina. NORWICH AGWAY Norwich, (860) 889-2344 norwichagway.com SHAGBARK LUMBER & FARM SUPPLY East Haddam, (860) 873-1946 shagbarklumber.com VALLEY HOME & GARDEN CENTER Simsbury, (860) 651-5646 valleyhomeandgarden.com HAY AND SHAVINGS
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MANURE REMOVAL,
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ASSOCIATED REFUSE HAULERS Newtown, CT, (203) 426-8870 associatedrefuse.com Containerized manure removal in southwestern Connecticut.
PAUL CONGELOSEI TRAILER SALES Montgomery, NY, (888) 310-2246 congelositrailersales.com Finding just the right trailer? At Congelosi Trailer Sales, it’s easy!
LE MAY, INC. Newtown, CT, (203) 347-2531 We buy manure.
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PENDERGAST HAULING AND BARN SERVICES New Fairfield, CT, (203) 948-9493 Manure removal, arena-footing restoration, excavation service. PHOTOGRAPHY
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JEANNE LEWIS IMAGES Wallingford, CT, jeannelewisimages.com Western events, barn shoots, portraits. Serving New England.
IMPERIAL HAY TRANSPORT Royalton, VT, (802) 234-2141 imperialhaytransport.com Quality New York and Canadian hay; shavings.Maine to Florida.
SARAH GROTE PHOTOGRAPHY Cromwell, CT, (860) 301-6647
PLEASANT VIEW FARMS Somers, CT, (860) 803-2777 pleasantviewfarmsinc.com Quality hay, straw, and non-GMO grain.
REAL ESTATE
HORSES FOR SALE
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HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Open to buy, sell, or trade horses seven days a week, by appointment.
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WILLIAM RAVEIS EQUESTRIAN raveis.com Specializing in equestrian lifestyle real estate. RETIREMENT SANCTUARIES
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MITCHELL FARM Salem, CT, (860) 303-8705 mitchellfarm.org Permanent sanctuary for senior horses.
STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable celebrating 50 years.
TAYLOR FARM New Hartford, CT, (860) 482-8725 taylorfarmct.com Horse retirement is all we do!
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INSURANCE
TACK
HORSE LOGIC horse-logic.com What is your horse trying to tell you? Tuning in to your companion. Understanding undesired behaviors from the horse’s point of view.
DON RAY INSURANCE (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Competitive rates, great service, farm packages, event insurance, liability, mortality and major medical.
ARBITRAGE TACK Oakville, CT, (860) 417-2608 arbitragetack.com Equipment you need at prices you can afford. We keep you riding.
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FARRIER
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MATT LEWIS Colchester, CT, (860) 575-2455 foxglovefarm.com Professional horseshoeing for the performance horse.
SEAN T. HOGAN, ESQ. Westport, CT, (203) 221-3250 seanhoganlaw.com Assisting owners, riders, and trainers with equine litigation, equine taxation, land use, ownerships, sales, leases, and USEF and FEI hearings.
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BENEDICT’S HOME & GARDEN Monroe, CT, (203) 268-2537 benedictsgarden.com G.M. THOMPSON & SONS Mansfield Depot, (860) 429-9377 gmthompson.net H. H. STONE & SONS Southbury, (203) 264-6501 hhstoneandsons.benmoorepaints.com
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July/August 2018
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MOHAWK DISTRIBUTION Ellington, CT, (860) 490-7509 mohawkdistributionct.com Repping Designs by Loriece, Garroutte Products, and La Victoria Performance. SMITH-WORTHINGTON SADDLERY Hartford, CT, (860) 527-9117 smithworthington.com Fine English saddlery and tack. TRACTORS/EQUIPMENT
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MIDSTATE TRACTOR AND EQUIPMENT COMPANY Middletown, CT, (860) 347-2531 midstatetractor.com Kubota, John Deere, Scag Power Equipment, Stihl, Honda.
VACATION
MOUNTAIN TOP INN AND RESORT Chittenden, VT, (802) 483-2311 mountaintopinn.com Vermont’s premier equestrian resort with miles of trails through woods and meadows, cross-country course, outdoor arenas, luxurious accommodations, creative cuisine, spa, salon, private beach. A short drive from home but a world away! VETERINARY
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BROOKLYN-CANTERBURY LARGE ANIMAL CLINIC Canterbury, CT, (860) 546-6998 bclargeanimal.com Serving eastern CT and RI. Equines, farm animals,and camelids. GRAND PRIX EQUINE Hawleyville, CT, (203) 733-0789 grandprixequine.com Focused care for the performance horse. Johanna Kremberg, DVM, Mark R. Baus, DVM. CARA KNESER, DVM Bozrah, CT, (860) 823-8951 kneserveterinary.com Mobile 24/7 equine veterinary service. TWIN PINES EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES Griswold, CT, (860) 376-4373 twinpinesequine.com Quality, compassionate care.
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Benedict’s Home & Garden 480 Purdy Hill Rd., Monroe (203) 268-2537 . benedictsgarden.com
Litchfield Blue Seal Store 99 Thomaston Rd., Litchfield (860) 482-7116 . blueseal.com
Shagbark Lumber & Farm Supply 21 Mt. Parnassus Rd., E. Haddam (860) 873-1946 . shagbarklumber.com
G. M. Thompson & Sons 54 Middle Turnpike Mansfield Depot (860) 429-9377 . gmthompson.net
Lock, Stock & Barrel 770 Amity Rd., Bethany (203) 393-0002 . lsbfarmsupply.com
Valley Home & Garden Centre 16 Railroad St., Simsbury (860) 651-5646 . valleyhomeandgarden.com
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Connecticut Horse
41
Farmington
Is This Your Horse?
Connecticut’s own Smith-Worthington Saddlery is the proud sponsor of Is This Your Horse? Crafting fine English saddlery and tack since 1794. Available at fine tack shops throughout the U.S. 275 Homestead Ave. Hartford, Connecticut 860 . 527 . 9117 smithworthington.com
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July/August 2018
Is this your horse? This photo was taken at the Horses and Horsepower Happening Polo Game on June 10 at the Farmington Polo Club. If this is your horse, contact us at win@connhorse.com for a Smith-Worthington Saddlery leather halter and a two-year subscription to Connecticut Horse!
Connecticut Horse
43
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BRIDGEPORT, CT PERMIT
#140