The International 2019

Burlington CAPITAL

'!J__N_T_E__ RN _ AT I���

2 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Burlington Capital International Omaha

RELIABLE COVERAGE FOR YOUR EQUINE INVESTMENTS

Board of Directors Chris Adderton Adrian Bento Lori Bucholz Karen Cudmore Robert Daugherty Karen Ensminger Gary Gates Audie Keaton Melissa Laflin Jennifer Maxwell John McQueen Lisa Roskens Anne Sushko Omaha Equestrian Foundation Staff Chief Executive Officer Mike West Director of Sport Jon Garner

American Reliable Insurance Company provides expert agribusiness and mortality underwriting; a 24/7 web-based system; responsive, service oriented claims personnel; and a group rating of “A� (Excellent)

by A.M. Best.

Director of Dressage Thomas Baur Chief Press Officer and Director of Equestrian Marketing Marty Bauman Director of Admin. and Operations Sara Weiss Director of Production and Finance Dustin Bode Director of Education Jackie Vinci Director of Sales Sarah Gensler Director of Construction and Planning Jake Cone Director of Stable Operations Dan Urban Director of Volunteers Carol Copeland Awards Coordinator Patrice Urban Director of Decor and Flowers Shiela Fitzgerald Show Secretaries Patrice Urban Maureen Urban Photographer Lili Weik

americanreliableag.com (800) 365-0398 A AD 9011 0219

Jump Crew Team Lead Mikey Urban Course Designer Bernardo Costa Cabral Announcer Adrian Ward Local Day Jumping Coordinator Sybil Greene Salute to the Military and First Responders Coordinator Michael Debolt Footing Provider JTWG Cover Artwork Burlington Capital Graphic Designer Kelly Murkins

1080 N 204th Ave Elkhorn, NE 68022 402.289.1175 reggandwallys.net

Omaha Equestrian Foundation would like to thank all the volunteers for their time and support.

GOOD LUCK RIDERS

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 3

Omaha Publications Editorial and Creative Executive Editor Doug Meigs Managing Editor and International Omaha Program Editor Daisy Hutzell-Rodman Senior Editor Tara Spencer Editorial Intern Kate Smith Creative Director Matt Wieczorek Senior Graphic Designer Derek Joy Graphic Designer II Mady Besch Contributors Tamsen Butler Sara Locke Howard K. Marcus Kara Schweiss Anne Walsh Contributed Photography Keith Binder Scott Drickey Sarah Lemke Executive Publisher Todd Lemke Vice President Greg Bruns Associate Publisher Bill Sitzmann Advertising and Marketing Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Gil Cohen Senior Branding Specialist Mary Hiatt Senior Sales Executive Gwen Lemke Branding Specialists George Idelman Dawn Dennis Local Stubs Ticketing Representative and Branding Specialist Joshua Peterson Digital Sales Manager Jillian Dunn Assistant to the Publisher Sandy Matson Senior Sales Coordinator Alicia Hollins Account Assistant Megan Fabry Operations and Accounts Chief Operations Officer Tyler Lemke Accounting Assistant Kendra Hill Distribution Manager Mike Brewer

advertising information 402-884-2000 subscribe online omahamagazine.com/subscribe

Table of Contents 5

The 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha Letters of Welcome

6

The Big Events Rule of Three Equals Big Fun

8

Omaha Equestrian Foundation Bigger and Better

11

Horse Health Care Spa Days and Chiropractors

12

Who's Here RFD-TV InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Series Finals

16

Event Schedule Where to Go

18

Hunter Holloway Riding Horses from the Cradle to the Show Ring

21

The Triple Crown Horse Discovery Zone Fun for All

22

George Morris Hosts the Dressage Foundation Showcase and More

23

Para-Equestrian Dressage Special Element Brings Top-Notch Riders

24

Military and First Responders Night An International Omaha Tradition

26

New Horse Courses Expanded Local College Provides Equestrian Certification

29 Donors 31

Vendors and Sponsors

4 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Everything You Need, For Anything You Need To Do. Everything You Need, For Anything You Need To Do. % A.P.R. Kubota’s FINANCING full line of hardworking equipment has a proven reputation * for high-quality reliability.

FOR 84Kubota’s MONTHS full line of engineering, hardworking versatility, equipmentpower has a and proven reputation

ONE TRACTOR, ALL JOBS.

0

for high-quality engineering, versatility, power and reliability.

Save on Kubota’s SSV Series skid steer loaders!

$

0 Down, 0 % Financing for 60 Months

*

A.P.R.

Offer ends 12/31/17.

RTV-X Series

L Series

Grand L Series

SSV Series

RTV-X Series

L Series

Grand L Series

SSV Series

BX Series

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota SL (SSV) Series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed.

Offer for expires See or go to www.KubotaUSA.com for more *20% Down, 0% A.P.R. financing up to12/31/17.

84 months onus purchases of select information. Optional equipment may be shown. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2017. new Kubota BX Series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; KubotaUSA.com subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 84 monthly payments of $11.90 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 3/31/18. See us or go to KubotaUSA.com for more information. Optional equipment may be shown. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018

KubotaUSA.com KubotaUSA.com © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018 © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018

B OA R DI NG • L E S S ONS • T R A I N I NG • T R A I L S

www.silvercreekstablesne.com

Omaha’s Premier Equestrian Facility Silver Creek Stables is a full-service horse boarding and riding facility located just 10 minutes north of the Omaha metro area. Our barn sits on 122 acres of beautiful Nebraska land.

“Whether you are a serious show competitor or simply want to enjoy a peaceful trail ride—Silver Creek Stables is for you!”

—Lisa Hathaway, Resident Trainer

For more information call 402-680-1006

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 5

Welcome to the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Welcome to Omaha

by Jean Stothert, mayor of Omaha

by Lisa Y. Roskens, chair, Omaha Equestrian Foundation We are so glad you have decided to join us for the “Great Equestrian Gathering of the Midwest.” Since our inception in 2012, we have worked to build an exciting, fun, and educational event for all our visitors.

Regardless of your experience with horses, we have something for you. Our educational exposition, the “Horse Discovery Zone,” gives young people of all ages a chance to learn to braid a tail, make a halter for a Breyer horse, or pet a giant horse. The Hose Discovery Zone is a big part of our charitable mission.

Not only is it free to the public, but our generous donors underwrite field trips for over 4,000 students from area schools. Around 70 percent of those students are on free/reduced lunch and many will see their first horse this week.

When you are done teasing your brain, reward yourself with a little shopping and a snack. Our vendor village and concession area give you the chance to shop, have a glass of wine, and enjoy some food all while watching our athletes prepare for competition in our warm-up arena.

This is an experience that is unique to Omaha—you often have to travel to Europe or the Longines Masters series for an environment like this.

And oh, yes, there’s the competition.

On one hand you have the jumpers that will take your breath away with their bravery and speed. On the other end of the spectrum, you have the beauty, grace, and perfection of the dressage athletes. There is something for everyone at the Burlington Capital International Omaha.

Have a great weekend!

Welcome to Omaha! We are proud to be your host city once again. The Burlington Capital International Omaha brings outstanding equestrian competition and world class athletes to Omaha.

We are proud of our growing national reputation as a sports event destination for competitions of all types. We are the home of the College World Series, we are a favorite host city for the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials, and NCAA Men’s Basketball, Women’s Volleyball, and Big 10 Baseball. Omaha fans support these events in huge numbers as you will see this weekend. This is an exciting time to be a sports fan in Omaha.

Whether you are in Omaha as a competitor or spectator, I am sure you will enjoy our city and the competition venue at CHI Health Center Omaha.

I hope you have the opportunity to visit some of my favorite places in Omaha. Enjoy fine dining and history in the Old Market. Visit the African Grasslands, the largest indoor rain forest, and the largest indoor desert

at the world famous Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Learn about the rich history of Boys Town, attend a performance at our live theatre or concert venues, or visit any of our museums displaying collections from the western expansion to fine art and sculpture. The Lauritzen Gardens are exceptionally beautiful during the early spring.

And don’t miss the opportunity to do a little “Bobbing” while you’re here. “Bobbing” is only possible on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the first pedestrian bridge to connect two states.

Enjoy the Burlington Capital International Omaha and we hope to see you again soon.

6 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

The Big Events Rule of Three Equals Big Fun by Anne Walsh

A

s Omaha rises to national prominence as a big-time host of major sporting events, the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha is soaring right along with it.

Now in its eighth year, the International Omaha is increasing its Midwestern fanbase while building a reputation for excellence in the North American equestrian community. The competition offers top prize money in three exciting events: the Grand Prix jumping contest, the InIt2WinIt speed jumping series finale, and the Dressage Team Challenge.

“It’s fun, exciting, and different. Kids are captivated by it, and our goal is for people to go from being curious to becoming fans,” says Lisa Roskens, founder and chair of the Omaha Equestrian Foundation. “We’re building momentum.

Previously, Omaha was not a name mentioned by anyone in the sport. Now, we’re seeing our logo popping up at competitions, and riders are including us in their resumes and talking about getting here.”

OEF’s mission is to expand the sport-horse industry throughout the Midwest, she says, with Omaha anchoring international-caliber equestrian competitions that provide educational and economic development opportunities.

Ensuring International Omaha stands out from other regional and national horse shows is the aim of Mike West, OEF chief executive officer. The strategy includes creating innovative events held in a state-of-the-art venue, attracting top talent through qualifying rounds in major cities, and offering substantial prize money.

Fans can expect pre-event “tailgating” activities such as free educational displays and exhibits, demonstrations, boutique shopping, and a dining/ lounge area with a close-up view of horses in the warm-up ring. From there, it is just a short canter to the main arena, where entrants compete in three big events.

$100,000 Grand Prix Jumping “It’s like playing a game of chess at 35 mph.”

That’s how Jon Garner, director of sport for the International Omaha, describes the Grand Prix jumping contest.

The Grand Prix is International Omaha’s original, and mainstay, event. Expected to draw up to 30 riders, the open event requires “power, skill, bravery, and carefulness,” says Garner, as horses and riders negotiate big, wide fences spread over a challenging course. Those who finish the first round cleanly— without knocking down any fence rails—advance to a jump-off. The horse and rider that complete the jump-off cleanly and with the fastest time wins.

The brightly colored, creative fences are safely designed to fall or break away if struck by a horse.

A course designer selects the types of obstacles and determines their order, height, and distance, all of which affect difficulty. Types can include: Triple Bar—A jump with three rails in graduating height and width.

Oxer—A jump with two rails, where the back rail is equal to or higher than the front rail.

Combination—Generally two or three jumps inline, with either one or two strides between them.

Horses take off and land at different distances from the obstacles depending on the type: usually closer for triple bars, slightly further for oxers and even further for high verticals. Course designers also may shorten or lengthen the distance between fences from the usual 12-foot-stride measure. Riders must have a great understanding of their horse’s stride length so they can determine how much to adjust for each particular combination.

One rider who has mastered these skills is Christian Heineking. “In equestrian events, 80 percent of medals are won by 20 percent of the athletes,” Garner says. “Christian has won the Omaha Grand Prix five out of six times, and he’s a very good ambassador for us.

“What keeps these top-level riders coming back is the atmosphere. There are not many places where you can jump or ride dressage in front of a crowd like Omaha. They’re very engaged and every year becoming more knowledgeable.”

$100,000 RFD-TV InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Series Finale Exclusive to Omaha, InIt2WinIt is creating excitement in the sport-horse industry and raising the profile of Midwestern show jumping.

In its second year, the speed jumping series is the brainchild of Roskens, who was inspired by similar speed competitions in California during the early ‘90s.

InIt2WinIt features challenging turns and slightly lower fences that reward agility and control at speed. Unlike the Grand Prix, a horse and rider can win even if a fence rail is knocked down. Each knock-down, called a “fault,” is converted to speed: 1 fault equals 4 seconds. So there is no need for a jump-off—the horse and rider with fastest overall time prevail.

Qualifying events for the Omaha finale were held from September 2018 through January 2019 at shows in Houston, Denver, Kansas City, and St. Louis. The qualifiers allow International Omaha to expand its footprint, says West, by attracting riders from different areas of the country.

“InIt2WinIt is a great example of trying new concepts and giving them time to grow. If you had asked me several years ago what I thought of show jumping in the Midwest, my response would have been, ‘I don’t think about show jumping in the Midwest,’” says Garner, a veteran of the international show jumping world. “That’s changing, and it’s fun to see.”

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 7

$50,000 Dressage Team Challenge Presented by Rowan O’Riley and Mission Control Also unique to Omaha is the Dressage Team Challenge, introduced by Thomas Baur, director of dressage and a world-renowned horse show organizer. Dressage (rhymes with “massage”) is the ballet of equine competition. Horses and riders move as one through intricate movements and patterns, reflecting years of intense discipline and preparation.

Last year, the format featured eight, 3-member teams pairing top-level Grand Prix riders with those in the Small Tour, Amateur, Junior, and Youth divisions. Each team was judged on technical and freestyle abilities, with the top two of the three team members’ scores from each category counting for the team.

Continuing to innovate and inspire, the 2019 event features six, 4-member teams, each including a para-equestrian rider. Depending on their physical or visual abilities, these riders participate within five classifications, equivalent to the standards set for their classical dressage teammates. Similar to

last year, the top three of the team members’ four scores in the technical and freestyle categories will count toward the team’s overall tally.

Baur says,“To my knowledge, this is the only competition in the world that teams para athletes with dressage riders.”

And that’s just how International Omaha wants it. “No one is doing what we’re doing,” says Roskens. “This is one of the few major sporting events you can attend where you’re not cheering against someone.”

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 9

Omaha Equestrian Foundation Bigger and Better by Tamsen Butler

T

he Omaha Equestrian Foundation was founded in 2010. “It started as an idea,” says Lisa Roskens. “So much has changed. In the beginning, it was only a vision of what we could do.”

As it turns out, daring to envision what the OEF could do has profoundly changed the course of equestrian sports within the Omaha area and sent ripples globally.

In 2013, the OEF submitted their “longshot” bid to host the 2017 World Cup Finals for Jumping and Dressage. The rest of the world “looked on with mild amusement,” Roskens recalls. “People thought it wasn’t possible. Outside of Omaha there was a lot of skepticism, but in Omaha, they knew we could do it.”

The OEF hosted the wildly successful World Cup Finals in 2017, and recently submitted a bid for the 2023 World Cup Finals, partially because the event changed the way the equestrian world viewed Omaha. Roskens says that at first, people viewed Omaha as a venue “with curiosity.

But now, competitors are vying to become qualifiers. It’s a 180-degree shift—the worm has turned.”

“Our vision of growing the sport in the area is coming to fruition. It’s both gratifying and a relief. Our community now gets the attention they deserve,” Roskens says. The organizers will discover if their bid for 2023 was successful in November 2019.

The mission of the OEF isn’t only about growing the sport within the Midwest region—it’s also about philanthropy and setting up opportunities for community members to encounter horses.

“We’re an ag-based sport in an urban area in an ag-based state,” CEO Mike West explains. “One of our goals is to continue to impact the community philanthropically, so we try to bring some country to the city.”

OEF does this, in part, by hosting thousands of school-aged children on field trips to the expo area of the International Omaha event. Not only do the children attend these field trips at no charge, they also receive vouchers for their families to join them at International Omaha. West estimated around 70 percent of the children attending these field trips are on the free- or reduced-cost lunch programs.

“Some of these kids have socioeconomic challenges, so we give tickets to the whole family,” West says.

“Many of these children have never touched a horse before,” Roskens adds.

The OEF does the same for military families.

West explains that giving a free ticket to only the active duty member limits the opportunity for the military family to spend time together. “We provide tickets so families that give up so much can attend together.” West adds that family time is especially important for military families in the process of reintegrating an active duty member who recently returned from a deployment. “These families sacrifice so much,” West says.

The OEF hosts a special night for first responders and military members every year. The OPS ROTC drill team performed in 2016—the same year the ROTC program celebrated its 100-year anniversary.

OEF also supports therapy riding. “It’s a big deal for people with mental health issues and physical disabilities,” West says.

Community College (an introductory course in the care of horses) who first got interested in horses by visiting the expo.”

“It’s a non-traditional career,” Roskens says. “It’s a wide spectrum of careers, from basic literacy level to a Ph.D. in equine science. Roskens further shares the importance of finding employees in the field to help grow the sport in Omaha. The OEF has three employees and more than 300 volunteers.

Another aspect of growing the sport horse industry in the region involves attracting spectators. Since such a large portion of horse enthusiasts are women, West and Roskens say the OEF puts some focus on catering to “horse ladies.” These are women who typically make an entire weekend out of any horse event; West compares it to tailgating at a major sporting event. “We try to be that tailgate party—we just do it inside the convention center.”

Massages, manicures, wine, and shopping are among the activities “horse ladies” can enjoy at OEF events. Local merchants partner with the OEF to create experiences that “really go beyond the ticketed event,” Roskens says.

“So much good can come from encountering horses,” Roskens ­says—and, apparently, so much good can come from a foundation determined to accomplish their mission.

Visit omahaequestrian.com for more information.

As the OEF continues to invite people to experience horses, the sport grows. “We can’t continue to grow without people growing their skills,” Roskens explains. “Our philanthropic mission ties right in with our mission of growing the sport in the region.” It’s not unheard of for someone to get their first exposure to horses through an OEF program, go on to take advantage of some of the free training opportunities through the OEF, and eventually pursue an equine career. “The expo whets the appetite,” Roskens says. “We’ve had people attend the Horse Course 101 at Metropolitan

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 11

Horse Health Care Spa Days and Chiropractors by Kara Schweiss

L

ike professional athletes receive the best medical care available for injuries, equine athletes receive top-notch veterinary care. And also like their human counterparts, complementary treatment like chiropractic, massage, and acupuncture for horses can support healing and sustain good health.

Veterinarian Dr. Kim Conover of the Nebraska Equine Veterinary Clinic says chiropractic therapy from certified practitioners complements veterinary care.

“Chiropractic care is the mobilization of joints to restore and maintain the normal range of motion, and to reduce muscle tension and pain. It can be used as prevention in healthy and sound horses to identify and address problems early on, before they progress,” she says. “And it can also be used in conjunction with more traditional veterinary diagnostics and therapies for musculoskeletal injuries and lameness conditions as part of a treatment, healing, and rehab plan.”

Because a horse can’t say what hurts or is uncomfortable, a chiropractic exam involves evaluation of the horse’s posture, gait, symmetry, flexibility, and range of motion, along with a myofascial palpation exam.

“This is putting your hands on the horse and feeling for heat, swelling, tension, trigger points in muscles, and any kind of pain responses as you go over the muscle and soft-tissue connective structures in the horse’s body,” Conover says.

Lightweight blocks called bales help veterinarians position themselves to administer therapy. Animal Clinic Suburban veterinarian Dr. Jodie Andersen says intense force isn’t helpful or necessary.

“The anatomy and the use of the body is different, with horses having four legs and humans having two legs—and of course they’re thousand-pound animals—but technique-wise it’s similar to chiropractic therapy in humans,” Andersen says.

“It’s pretty amazing because you use a lot of your body weight and then physics kind of works with you. You use your own body mechanics and different leverage points to adjust them.”

Like in humans, chiropractic therapy is commonly used in conjunction with many other modalities, Conover says. Special extracorporeal shock wave therapy is used to treat tendon and ligament injuries, for instance. Massage and acupuncture can also be useful in treating the musculoskeletal, hormonal, cardiovascular, and autonomic nervous systems.

“I use both chiropractic and acupuncture together, because they both fit different niches when you’re treating a patient,” Andersen says. “I’ll inject vitamin B12 under the skin at the acupuncture point, and it works to activate that point a little bit longer than a simple needle would. Horses are very receptive to it.”

Andersen says owners with obviously injured or aging animals often seek equine complementary therapies in hopes of providing pain relief, but there doesn’t have to be a significant problem to start.

“Where it really flourishes is for those horses that aren’t performing to the best of their abilities or maybe not picking up a lead change as smoothly in one direction as another,” she says. “It’s subtle, or the horse is a bit ‘off.’ They’ve done the traditional Western (medicine) workup and can’t quite get to 100 percent.”

Even horses at their peak can benefit.

“But if they’re still healthy and we’re not seeing problems, let’s maintain that health,” Andersen continues. “That’s really the goal of these therapies, is to help the body heal itself or maintain homeostasis so they can perform optimally.”

12 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Who’s Here

RFD-TV InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Series Finals

Confjrmed Riders Erin Davis Heineking | FIRST PLACE Great Southwest Fall Classic Erin Davis Heineking is a lifelong rider and a big fan of the International Omaha. With her family, she operates October Hill Farm, a 200-acre facility devoted to breeding, training, showing, and sales of top quality warmbloods in Weatherford, Texas. This past year Heineking and the mare Leonie won the 2018 $15,000 VEX Sporthorses 4-Bar Class with a finishing height of 1.90m, and the pair qualified for the InItToWinIt Final by winning the $15,000 Series qualification in Katy, Texas. In addition to riding, Erin, who is married to fellow competitor Christian Heineking, raises their daughter, Ella, and has recently collaborated within the industry to bring back a national-level show jumping series in her hometown of Fort Worth, Texas.

Hunter Holloway | FIRST PLACE American Royal Fans who braved a snowstorm to witness the 2018 International Omaha Grand Prix watched a thrilling victory by Hunter Holloway, who went all out to beat herself. Holloway had the event won when main rival Christian Heineking pulled a rail. But she wanted to know if the second mount she’d qualified in the jump-off, Eastern Jam, could best her previous time. So she went for it and won, earning first and second places. One of the country’s most promising Grand Prix competitors, Holloway came off a stellar junior career that saw her win the prestigious Maclay Medal Finals and Washington International Equitation Championship in 2016. A native of Topeka, Kansas, she grew up riding at Equi-Venture Farm and now operates Hunter Holloway Stables with facilities in both Topeka and Loxahatchie, Florida. Omaha native Caroline Mcleese, who also had a strong junior career as a rider, is now barn manager and rider at Holloway Stables. Holloway brings both Lucky Strike and VDL Bravos to the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha. Lucky Strike and Holloway won the 2014 International Omaha Mutual of Omaha Speed Derby.

Shannon Hicks | FIRST PLACE Lake St.Louis Hunter Jumper Show Shannon Hicks returns to the International Omaha in 2019 with last year’s qualifying mount, Emir D. They earned their slot in this year’s InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals with a successful performance at the St. Louis qualifying event. The pair continued winning ways by repeating as champion of the Gulf Coast Grand Prix Circuit, taking home ribbons in four of the six Grand Prix competitions at those shows.

Hicks has made a name for herself at Great Griffon Farm in Wentzville, Missouri, as a rider, trainer, and coach, developing students who have been successful in some of the nation’s most prestigious horse shows, including the Washington International, Devon, Pennsylvania National, Young Riders, and Pony Finals.

Kasey Ament | FIRST PLACE National Western Stock Show Kasey Ament and Qasama Du Buisson Z got their invitation to compete in the 2019 InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals at the International Omaha with a thrilling win in the Gambler’s Choice qualifying event at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. They scored an impressive 1,280 points, beating out second place finisher (and InIt2WinIt qualifier) Kristin Hardin. Ament is from Hidden Valley, California, where she established KC Jump Inc. at El Campeon Farms in 2010. It offers full service training for horses and riders at all levels, including hunters, jumpers, and equitation. Ament and her team compete throughout California and select U.S. shows as well as in Canada and Europe. Qasama Du Buisson Z is a 7-year-old imported Zangershide mare described by her rider as having “heart and scope, and being brave and careful.”

Doug Boyd

Brooke Cudmore

Abigail Evans

Doug Boyd brings his 12-year-old Dutch Warmblood Berkley III to compete at the International Omaha in 2019, fresh off outstanding performances in the $5,000 Welcome Stake and the $25,000 Grand Prix at the World Equestrian Center in Ohio. Boyd is the owner and manager of Sapphire Riding Academy in Mettawa, Illinois, and is a respected Grand Prix rider and trainer of aspiring riders at all levels. Boyd has been in the tack since he was a child, riding jumpers at the age of 14. More than 45 years later he has ridden horses to national championships throughout the country and regularly travels to compete in Mississippi, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Washington, D.C.

Brooke Cudmore is part of a riding legacy that spans three generations. Her mother, Karen, is a highly respected Grand Prix rider known throughout the United States and Europe. Her grandparents, Glenn and Carole, trained and sold hunters and jumpers out of Glencarry Stables in Crescent, Iowa, for many years. Based out of Heartland Farm near Bennington, Nebraska, Brooke is immersed in the business end of the Cudmores’ breeding, training, showing, and sales operations. The farm has become a go-to place for those seeking quality warmblood jumpers in the United States. Brooke trains with her mother and has inherited Karen’s keen sense of competitiveness. In 2019, she brings Southern Rose to compete at the International Omaha.

Abigail Evans is an amateur Grand Prix rider from Spicewood, Texas, who rode her Donafee at the Great Southwest Fall Classic to qualify for this year’s InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals. She rides with trainer Dan Bedoya, who has been an InIt2WinIt competitor in the past.

Charlie Carrel

Karen Cudmore

Charlie Carrel carries on the training legacy of his father, Jack Carrel, at Colts Unlimited in Sheridan, Wyoming. The Colts Unlimited philosophy, developed over 40 years with thousands of horses, is that regardless of the discipline, establishing a solid foundation on a young horse is imperative for success with a performance prospect. It is a philosophy that has paid off for his family in their successes in both western and English disciplines, including ranch riding, reining, dressage, hunters, Grand Prix jumpers, and high goal polo. It is outlined in Carrel’s book, “Starting the Young Jumper.” The Carrel family has also been involved in trick and stunt training for the film industry, and Charlie once doubled for Antonio Banderas in the film The Thirteenth Warrior. Carrel rode in the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals last year and qualified Fortado for the finals at the Denver Western Stock Show qualifying event.

The Canadian native who makes her home at Heartland Farm near Bennington has been a hometown favorite since the inception of the International Omaha. In 2019 she brings back her veteran partner Southern Pride, one of Heartland’s flagship stallions. Karen Cudmore has represented Canada at a number of international competitions, including the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Spain and the World Cup Finals in Las Vegas in 2003. Known as a fierce and tough competitor, Karen passes on her wealth of riding experience at the top of the sport to her customers and to daughters Brooke and Kiley.

Jaelynn Downing Jaelynn Downing of Flower Mound, Texas, qualified for the 2019 InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals with her performance at the American Royal in Kansas City in October. Downing, who says she loves horses and soccer, will ride her Grand Prix mount Vigo Du Levant.

Lisa Goldman-Smolen The reigning speed queen of the upper Midwest, Lisa Goldman-Smolen brings both Sovereign and Hindsight to the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha. Sovereign, owned by Barbara Disko, won the World Equestrian Center’s $50,000 Grand Prix in October with Goldman-Smolen aboard, topping a 32-horse field. The popular rider leads Gold Run Show Jumpers, an elite riding team based out of Red Coat Farm in Hawthorne Woods, Illinois. Goldman-Smolen grew up riding ponies and Thoroughbreds off the track, and is a graduate of Baylor University, where she majored in management and entrepreneurship. She says Sovereign loves to be petted and scratched, and enjoys posing for pictures. Goldman-Smolen qualified both horses at the Lake St. Louis hunterjumper show.

Susan Deed Griffis Susan Deed Griffis punched her ticket to the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals with a third place finish at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, riding Deaville Van Overis Z. The pair hail from Larkspur, Colorado.

14 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Kristin Hardin

Eric Martin

Trapp O’Neal

Last year, Santa Barbara, California, rider Kristin Hardin had to watch the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals from the ground when she was sidelined by a leg injury. This year she is back in the saddle on two entries that qualified at Denver’s National Western Stock Show. Known for being a bit flambuoyant and unconventional, Hardin has a knack for taking on difficult horses. She first got Bert, one of her qualified horses, almost nine years ago. “He had a reputation for being scared and unrideable. I figured every time I stayed on him it was a good day,” she jokes. Under her careful tutelage, Bert, a 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood, and Hardin have won numerous Grand Prix classes and Bert is the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association national champion in the 1.40 meter division.

Hardin has even written a children’s book about Bert’s progress from a frightened horse to a Grand Prix competitor. “He now trusts me 100 percent,” Hardin says. “When he walks into the ring I figure my job is to stay out of his way and let him do his job. He is very competitive, super careful, and loves his job.” When he’s not jumping, Bert also enjoys meeting his many fans. Hardin’s other mount is Eminent, a Warmblood stallion she affectionately calls Charles.

Eric Martin is another Canadian who has been a consistent competitor at the International Omaha.

The popular Grand Prix rider runs Eastridge Farms in Oakbank, Manitoba, with wife Danae, where both are NCCP Certified Equine Canada Level 2 coaches. The Martins’ breeding operation includes standing the Oldenburg stallion Kumano. Eric earned a spot in this year’s InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals with his placing at the St. Louis qualifying event, and will be riding Cameleon.

Another talented Texan from the Houston area, Trapp O’Neal began riding at the age of six and worked his way up to become a respected Grand Prix competitor. Operating TKO Sporthorses out of Magnolia, Texas, he qualified two horses, Dollar Cash and Tiramisu, for the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals this year at the Great Southwest Fall Classic in Katy, Texas.

Christian Heineking Christian Heineking loves Omaha, and Omaha loves him. He has won the International Omaha Grand Prix on River of Dreams and NKH Selena no less than four times. He rode in the 2017 FEI World Cup Finals here and in 2018 won the inaugural $100,000 InItToWinIt Speed Series Final. Speaking after he won, he said, “I thought that this was a great class and the crowd really was into it. The InIt2WinIt Series has been great for the Midwest and the speed format makes it very exciting for the crowd.” A native of Germany, Heineking developed his riding skills at Redefin Federal Stud of Mecklenburg and came to the United States in 2008. He is the head trainer at October Hill Farm and operates his Heineking Show Stables in Weatherford, Texas, with his family—wife Erin and daughter Ella.

Luis Marques Another Texan who is in to win is Luis Marques, who will be riding Conquistador. They earned a place in the finals by placing third in the Great Southwest Fall Classic qualifying event in Katy, Texas. Marques is a regular competitor at Grand Prix competitions throughout the Southwest area of the country.

Sarah Meier Sarah Meier bases out of her Puncheston Stables in Lexington, Kentucky. Qualifying in St. Louis, she brings the 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse Chanel to compete in the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals.

The striking gray sometimes raises eyebrows in the warm-up ring, as the high-headed Chanel snorts and rushes. But their two-year partnership has been successful, winning 1.30- and 1.35-meter competitions in Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Missouri. Meier grew up in the Milwaukee area in what she describes as a “nonhorsey” family. Her equitation career was shaped by trainer Steve Wall and as she progressed through the jumper divisions she was helped by luminaries Michael Matz, Dennis Mitchell, and Frank Conway.

She has worked her way up by gaining experience in a variety of equine industry roles, including being an exercise rider in racing stables.

Genevieve Munson Labeled a genuine “phenom,” Genevieve Munson, at 14, is the youngest rider to qualify for the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals at the International Omaha.

The youngster from Rogers, Arkansas, has been riding since she could sit on a horse, and followed in her older siblings’ footsteps as a rider. At 7, she began showing hunter ponies, and in 2014 Munson, riding a little blue roan called Bluebell owned by trainer Carlie Beisel, was the youngest rider to take the gold at the USEF Pony Jumper Individual Championships. Known for her “make it happen” mentality, Munson has worked with a number of talented trainers, including Martien van der Hoven, Matt Cyphert, and Michael Burnett, all of whom have shown at the International Omaha. She has also ridden with Olympic icon George Morris, done a lot of catch riding for different owners, and competed a six-horse string. She qualified at the American Royal in Kansas City. This weekend, watch her aboard Stillwater.

Mathis Schwentker Mathis Schwentker is an accomplished veteran of show jumping at his young age, having already won the 2017 Championship for Professional Riders in Bad Oeynhausen. He shares a personal philosophy of “strength through serenity” in his training approach. Representing Germany, he has already made an early impression in North America with numerous highlights, such as a win in the 2019 Back on Track Grand Prix at the Desert Horse Park, a second-place finish in the 2018 Coachella Grand Prix in November, and winning both Grand Prix classes at the 2018 American Royal Horse Show. He qualified three different horses for the 2019 InItToWinIt Series Final—Chaccrobat, NKH Carrido, and NKH Caruso.

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 15

Wild Cards Liz Atkins Liz Atkins rides out of Benchmark Stables in Hampshire, Illinois. In 2014, she was named the Top Young Grand Prix Rider of the Year by the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association. Although sidelined by injuries the following year, she has returned to competition and is a frequent competitor throughout the Midwest. In the past season, she posted wins in Welcome Stakes and Grand Prix events on the Chicago and Gulfport, Mississippi, circuits. Atkins plans to compete in the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals with the Dutch Warmblood gelding Rodeo VDL. Staying focused and motivated while dealing with injuries can be a challenge, Atkins says, “but you should never be afraid to ask for help.” She says she feels fortunate to be able to work with “such incredible animals, and I always want to do my best for them.” Before going into the ring for a big class, Atkins says she tries to take a few minutes to decompress and get focused. Then she whispers secret encouragement to her horse to “leave ‘em up.”

Phillip Flynn

Frankie Owens

Phillip Flynn works with Colts Unlimited, a training operation based in Sheridan, Wyoming, that was established by the Carrel family. A successful competitor at the Grand Prix level, his most recognized partner is the gray Polar Ice, an 8-year-old Canadian Warmblood. This summer, the pair took home the first Triple Crown Excellence Award at the Colorado Horse Park in Parker for their outstanding athleticism and confidence in the ring.

Frankie Owens is another rider who grew up in a horse family. He carries on the equestrian tradition of parents Frank and Candie, who established Oakwell Farms in San Antonio, Texas, after moving from Virginia. Frankie’s sister Whitney immediately took to riding—Frankie not so much, until he turned 14, after which he made up for lost time.

One of his first horses, Peggy Sue, was an unbroken brood mare when he got her. He took her through her first saddling to her first Grand Prix win. Now 34, Frankie is a force to be reckoned with in Grand Prix competitions throughout the Southwest.He continues to train with his father and sister.

Caelinn Leahy Caelinn Leahy, of Highland Park, Illinois, is a firsttime competitor at the International Omaha and is just 17 years old. In 2017, then-15-year-old Leahy won the $50,000 HITS Balmoral Grand Prix on the horse she normally used for foxhunting. Leahy and her horse Dymendy have had a fantastic winter showing in Florida. She recently placed second in the $25,000 National Grand Prix at the Winter Equestrian Festival. Leahy’s stepfather and trainer, Steve Schaefer, qualified for last year’s inaugural Init2Winit Speed Jumping Series.

Michael Burnett

Sydney Luzicka

One of the most promising Grand Prix riders in the Midwest, Michael Burnett focuses on excellence.

The 27-year-old has established Burnett Farms in Lebanon, Indiana, and has worked extensively with legendary trainer George Morris to hone his skills in the Grand Prix ring. Morris has worked with him throughout the Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida, which Burnett says has heightened his attention to detail and refined his riding style. The result has been top ribbons in multiple Grand Prix events. Burnett’s most recognizable mount is Iron, a 16-year-old nearly white horse that pleases crowds with his spitfire personality.

Sydney Luzicka is the daughter of Albuquerque, New Mexico, horse trainer Julie Luzicka. Last year Sydney, then age 17, was the youngest competitor in the InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals at the International Omaha, riding Willow Catkin.

Luzicka competes regularly throughout the Southwest, including California. After last year’s International Omaha, Luzicka was involved in a dirt bike accident that fractured her left ankle. A month after surgery, she was back in the saddle, showing without stirrups, which she said strengthened her legs and brought her closer to her horse. She also began showing her horse in a bitless bridle, and, without stirrups or bit, placed fourth in the Grand Prix in Santa Fe.

Matt Cyphert Matt Cyphert is a talented Texan who led the victory gallop in the 2015 International Omaha Grand Prix aboard Lochinvar. Based out of Woodhill Farm in Argyle, Texas, Cyphert excels as a trainer and rider in multiple Grands Prix and Hunter Derby competitions throughout the country. His students compete successfully at USEF Medal Finals, the Maclay National Finals, and the Talent Search Finals. He has earned two national Horse of the Year titles and is a gold-medal-winning Chef d’Equipe for Pony Finals and Zone 7 North American Young Rider Championships.

Kevin Mealiff Kevin Mealiff is a 29-year-old rider from Ireland and is the head rider for Maarten Huggen Horse Sales in Wellington, Florida. Mealiff has spent the winter riding in Florida on several different horses.

Breezy Sambola Breezy Sambola is a Grand Prix rider from Covington, Louisiana, and the owner of Sambola Show Stables, located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. She is a U.S. Hunter Jumper Association Certified trainer, taking young riders to quality shows throughout the South. She competes successfully in Grand Prix competitions in Mississippi, Kentucky, and Tennessee, most recently on Fons Van T.Geyzeven, owned by the Murphy family.

Danielle “Dannee” Urban Dannee Urban is originally from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and spent her junior years showing at the world-renowned Spruce Meadows show jumping venue. In fall 2005, at age 18, she relocated to Omaha to begin her professional riding and training career. Three years later, she joined the staff at Quail Run Horse Centre in Elkhorn, Nebraska.

Urban is experienced in bringing horses along from green youngsters to Grand Prix jumpers. She is an important part of the Quail Run teaching program and enjoys taking clients to shows throughout the Midwest and Gulf Coast. She and the attractive gray VDL Byacinthe, owned by the Delano family, qualified for last year’s inaugural InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Finals at the International Omaha, but were forced to drop out due to injury. The pair is eager to compete again on the Omaha stage. Urban is married to Quail Run manager Tom Urban, and they are the parents of a 2-year-old daughter.

16 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

Event Schedule BURLINGTON CAPITAL INTERNATIONAL OMAHA April 4-7 | CHI Health Center Omaha

Ticketed Events Friday, April 5 4:30 p.m.

The Dressage Foundation Showcase Join OEF for a clinic from dressage star Katherine Bateson-Chandler and one of the most legendary riders, trainers, and clinicians—George Morris. Prepare to be entertained and learn from two of the best.

7:30 p.m.

The $100,000 RFD-TV Init2Winit Speed Jumping Final After four qualifying events, the fastest horses and riders in the Midwest will compete in the $100,000 final. This jumping event will be fast paced, exciting, and will leave attendees hanging off the edge of their seats. This competition will include a salute to the military, veterans, and first responders.

Saturday, April 6 12:30 p.m.

First Riders Go 3 p.m.

Omaha Steaks Opening Ceremony and Final Riders Go $50,000 International Omaha Team Dressage Challenge Freestyle Final The dramatic final to the Dressage Team Challenge will be beautiful, as the teams tackle the freestyle portion of the challenge. Attendees can watch the horses and riders gracefully maneuver movements to music as OEF crowns the Team Dressage Champions.

7 p.m. $100,000 International Omaha Grand Prix The crown jewel of the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha will be a crowd pleaser.

Spectators will watch some of the best horses and riders jump huge obstacles in the shortest times possible. It is grace and athleticism under pressure—and it is fun to watch.

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 17

Daytime Competitions

—these events are free and open to the public

Thursday, April 4 (main competition arena) 7 a.m.

Dressage: training level

8:15 a.m.

Dressage: first level

10:45 a.m.

Jumping: 1.10m open

1:15 p.m.

Jumping: 1.20m open

3:45 p.m.

Jumping: 1.30m open

6:15 p.m.

Jumping: 1.40m “Wild Card” welcome

Friday, April 5 (main competition arena) 7 a.m.

Individual team event dressage tests

8:50 a.m.

Intermission

9 a.m.

Individual team event dressage tests

Noon

Jumping: 1.10m open

1:45 p.m.

Jumping: 1.20m open

3:15 p.m.

Jumping: 1.30m open

Free Activities Activities area is open to the public from 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday, and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

Triple Crown Horse Discovery Zone This area has over 15,000 square feet of interactive, fun, and educational displays perfect for kids ages 0-100. The popular Gallery of Breeds is where guests can get “face to muzzle” with a variety of different horse breeds.

From one of the tallest horses in Nebraska, to the sweet little minis, guest will enjoy petting the horses and speaking with their owners. The demo arena will also feature demonstrations and shows that will educate and entertain. Demonstrations will include lessons from some of the area’s finest horsemen, including George Morris and Katherine Bateson-Chandler.

Boutique Shopping Village Saturday, April 6 (main competition arena) 7:15 a.m.

Jumping: 1.10m high child adult

8:45 a.m.

Jumping: 1.20m low junior/amateur

10:15 a.m.

Jumping: 1.30m medium junior/amateur

Sunday, April 7 (main competition arena) 7:30 a.m.

Jumping: local day

8:30 a.m.

Jumping: 1.10m open

10:15 a.m.

Jumping: 1.10m child/adult classic

12:00 p.m.

Jumping: 1.20m open

1:30 p.m.

Jumping: 1.20m junior/amateur classic

3:15 p.m.

Jumping: 1.30m open

5:00 p.m.

Jumping: 1.30m junior/amateur classic

A variety of vendors will be selling everything from boots and saddles to gifts, jewelry, and art. It’s perfect for people to spoil themselves or loved ones—and guests will have an incredible number of vendors to choose from.

Breyer Zone Visitors can view a collection of customized model horses as well as take part in workshops to create model horse accessories. Kids of all ages will be able to paint a Stablemates® model of their very own on Saturday and Sunday, while they learn from some of the leading craftsman in the industry. Vendors will be on-hand for guests to purchase a variety of model horses.

Baird Holm LLP Tailgate Lounge Those who love football tailgating, will love this horse version of the tailgate. Guests can eat and drink with friends while watching the horses and riders warm-up before their competitions.

18 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 19

Hunter Holloway Riding Horses from the Cradle Into to the Show Ring by Sara Locke

H

unter Holloway can’t hear what the crowds are saying, but she can feel their high energy. She instead hears the sound of hoofbeats and lets the noise of the crowd push her past the expectations she put on herself, and her horse rises to meet her in their new shared mission: change what’s possible.

It was this push that put her in competition with herself at the 2018 International Omaha. Having already secured her first-place position, she and Eastern Jam delighted the crowd and her fellow riders, leaping beyond the win to beat her own time of 32.585 seconds with a clean run of 29.990.

Hunter instinctively reaches to her partner after each run, giving enthusiastic pats and affection to an animal with whom she has spent years cultivating a trusting relationship.

“Horses aren’t just great big puppy dogs,” Hunter says. “A lot of people see them as pets, but they’re incredibly powerful animals. To become a rider or jumper, or to compete in an equestrian event, you have to have a true love of your horse. You have to respect them, and you have to respect what they can and can’t do.”

Hunter is not a weekend rider and horses are not her hobby, they are her legacy. She is the operator of Hunter Holloway Stables in Topeka, Kansas, and Loxahatchie, Florida. Her first experience with horses came before she was born. Her mother, Brandie Holloway, has been an accomplished professional equestrian since she was a child, and continued riding through her pregnancy with the future prodigy. In fact, she fell off a horse the day before Hunter was born.

With Brandie’s support and guidance, Hunter learned respect and handling of equines while other children her age were learning how to share crayons. By age 2, she was riding solo, competing in an event for those under 10 called walk-trot mini stirrup. At age 12, Hunter set the record for being the youngest rider to win a national grand prix when she won first place in the $25,000 Dallas Harvest Grand Prix.

Horses became so integral to her own livelihood that she began spending more time on the road, especially in the southern states of Florida, North Carolina, and Kentucky. Attending school in Kansas became more difficult, but she began to attend classes remotely, making it possible for her to earn an education without sacrificing her passion.

Hunter completed her studies while becoming a prodigious equestrian. Today, she has graduated to training horses and teaching competitors at her own facilities, but she knows that her education will never be complete.

“Riding is very technical, and there is so much to learn, but learning the technical aspects are very secondary,” Hunter says. “The love is first. You have to love riding and learning, but you have to love your horse first. You have to stay open to what your horse is trying to communicate, and you will always be learning. Even today, I feel so grateful to have the opportunity both to teach and to learn.”

Living in a state of constant competition, Holloway is always prepared for the next hurdle, but one event finds itself given priority each year.

“I put International Omaha on my calendar early every year, and I make sure there is time for it,” Hunter remarks. “They put on a top-class event, a great Grand Prix and Speed Class, and all in an excellent facility. But the environment is amazing.

Everything is positive and exciting, and the crowds are always so enthusiastic.”

But to get here she must qualify and that she does well. Hunter came in first place riding Lucky Strike to win the $25,000 InIt2WinIt Speed Jumping Series Qualifier American Royal in Kansas City in October 2018, earning her a secured spot at this weekend’s event.

While she looks forward to the competition, she appreciates Omaha’s hometown friendliness.

“The staff at the event always go out of their way to accommodate us and make sure everything goes smoothly,” Hunter says. “They are considerate of our horses and their needs. It’s a really special event, and I always look forward to it.”

She is consistently the youngest in her competitions, and her victories are never easily won, but come with the respect and admiration of her competition.

The riders she has defeated praise Hunter for her instincts, form, and grace. Each one notices a strength and power in the young rider they find inspiring and aspirational.

Hunter herself demurs at the accolades, piling the praise onto her horses for their cooperation and energy. The remaining credit she deflects to her mother.

Most parents hope they feed their children’s passions, and those with a love of horses need a large investment of time, space, and financial support. The child has to have the instincts, and the parent has to know the child, and put faith in the child’s decisions. Brandie has stood beside her daughter for the fear, the falls, and the far more frequent wins.

20 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

YOUR HOMETOWN BOOTMAKER 3614 Martha St. Omaha, NE 68105 402-342-7788 FAX 402-342-5444 dehner.com info@dehner.com

Food Features • Restaurant Reviews Chef Profiles • Dining Guides • In Every Issue

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 21

The Triple Crown Horse Discovery Zone Fun for All by Daisy Hutzell-Rodman

A

s part of the Burlington Capital International Omaha, the Horse Discovery Zone is a place where kids (and adults) of all ages can have fun while they learn about horses. Free and open to the public, it is a wonderful place to introduce people to the magical world of horses.

Those who want to help the Horse Discovery Zone grow can donate to the Omaha Equestrian Foundation. Visit omahaequestrian.com, call the OEF at 402-930-3079, or email them at contactoef@omahaequestrian.com to donate. Donations are always welcomed.

• Gallery of Breeds: The gallery is people’s best chance to get face-to-muzzle with a variety of horse breeds. From the towering fan favorite Luke (a Percheron) to the 29” tall Mini jumper Precious, guests will be able to learn about each breed, their history, and how they are used. The gallery is a wonderful chance for photo opportunities with a favorite breed.

• Horse of Course: This is where learning meets fun. It is a hands-on learning exhibit where youngsters can explore horse equipment and learn more about horse health and biology— including feeding, grooming, and caring for the horse. They will learn the anatomy of the horse as well as the skills of leg wrapping, tail braiding, and how to halter a horse.

• Mini Jumps: Let the kids burn off some energy while jumping around a course of jumps just like their favorite equestrian athletes.

The jumps are true scale models of the big jumps in the main competition arena.

• History of Horses in Nebraska: Learn more about the impact of horses in Nebraska. See artifacts from area museums and learn about their role in the lives of Native Americans and in agriculture, transportation, the military, and recreation throughout the years.

• Demonstration Arena: The arena has a variety of interesting demonstrations each day of the event. Legendary trainer George Morris and dressage star Katherine Bateson-Chandler will be giving mini-clinics along with area and regional trainers and experts. The demo arena also features a daily Parade of Breeds and demonstrations of different types of riding styles from driving to reining.

• Encampment Display: Learn what life was like for a cavalry officer in post-Civil War America. See replicas of an officer’s tent and household items.

22 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

George Morris

Hosts the Dressage Foundation Showcase and More

by Tamsen Butler

L

egendary horseman George H. Morris was fond of Omaha long before the equestrian world fell in love with the city. “In the 1970s I did lots of clinics in Omaha and knew a bunch of people out there,” he says. “I have a long, long history with Omaha that people don’t know I have because they are too young.”

Attendees can expect to learn classic methods of riding and training horses. “I teach what I was taught,” Morris reveals. “You teach people to be riders and horse trainers; competition is at the end.” His focus is not on the competition aspect of the sport, but rather, “I stress how the horse is cared for.”

Omaha Equestrian Foundation CEO Mike West is happy to have a trainer of Morris’ caliber at this event. “George Morris has been training for more years than anybody. He’s probably worked with more Olympians and World Cup winners than anyone else in the United States. He’s the highest level from a success point of view.”

He remembers when Omaha first made the bid to host the Jumping and Dressage World Cup for 2017. “People said, ‘Omaha?’ But then they hit a home run and the World Cup got a standing ovation. Now Europeans can’t wait to get back to Omaha.”

Morris adds that he has been successful and his students have been successful, something to which rider Henry Moberly can attest.

“He made the United States relevant in equestrian coaching,” West adds. “He’s the Vince Lombardi of horse coaching.”

“It was a tremendous learning experience—based on feedback from Mr. Morris I have been continuing to improve my riding position,” Moberly says. “He is inspirational and challenging, and makes you want to work harder to become a better rider.”

Morris will be joined by dressage star Katherine Bateson-Chandler for the Dressage Foundation Showcase. Bateson-Chandler will give a dressage perspective to the showcase.

He returns to Omaha on Saturday to host the Dressage Foundation Showcase. His showcase is an opportunity for people to learn something from a man who is considered by most in the sport to be the founding father of Hunt-Seat Equitation.

Morris says it is important to seek out new educational opportunities. Or, as his grandmother used to say, it is “more grist to the mill,” an old saying that refers to learning something new that will be advantageous. “You want more tools in your toolbox,” Morris says.

Moberly worked with Morris at the 2018 International Omaha by winning the Omaha Equestrian Foundation’s 2018 essay contest. The prize was a free lesson with Morris at the 2018 event. This year, Moberly has moved his horse Symbolic up to Juniors. He is also competing in High Children’s Jumpers.

It’s not often that riders get the opportunity to enjoy a unique educational experience like the one offered

by Morris and Bateson-Chandler this weekend.

It’s an opportunity to learn from living legends in the sport.

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 23

Para-Equestrian Dressage Special Element Brings Top-Notch Riders by Daisy Hutzell-Rodman

O

maha is becoming known for its awardwinning Burlington Capital International Omaha. The event has brought in dressage riders from Florida to California, and last year started a unique competition for this festival of horses— the team dressage challenge. This competition combines four riders as a team who work together to earn the most points. This year’s competition requires each team to have a youth rider and a para-equestrian rider.

Thomas Baur, director of dressage for the International Omaha, says, “After the success of the [2017] World Cup, we decided to create a new competition. The idea was already there to include para-riders with the teams. And this year we are getting the top para-riders in this competition.”

The term “para” in this case refers to parallel. These riders all require some form of dispensation, from the use of prosthetic limbs to special saddles and reins. A grading system of 1 (needing to practically walk a horse) to 5 (often amputees requiring only the use of a prosthetic) is used to make sure riders of the same ability are judged similarly.

Kate Shoemaker rides as a Grade IV para-equestrian due to lesions causing motor control dysfunction, muscle weakness, and spasms on the right side of her body. Shoemaker compensates for the loss of three planes of motion control in her ankle with an ankle foot brace and uses special rein stops for added control. She is ranked fourth in the world in her category, and last year won the bronze medal at the World Equestrian Games in Tryon, North Carolina.

Baur says Burlington Capital International Omaha organizers are “honored to have her here,” and look forward to seeing this world-class equestrian rider in the ring.

“The riding helps loosen up my hip, which is good because I can’t stand anymore,” Oakleaf, who used to be a runner, says. “It’s neat when I’m riding because it’s kind of my running now.”

Laurietta Oakleaf rides as a Grade II para-equestrian rider. She has chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and uses a wheelchair when not riding. She uses rubber bands around stirrups, and two whips do the work of her legs. She also has velcro in her gloves and reins due to reduced grip in her hands and uses conversion reins. Straps hold her thighs in place, and a different strap holds the girth in place.

Just as it is important for the the para-equestrian riders to train in a similar manner to non-para riders, the organizers of the Burlington Capital International Omaha think it is important to have all types of riders competing in the event.

It takes 10-15 minutes for Oakleaf to get onto a horse, but once on, there is no stopping her. She started para-equestrian dressage in 2006, and in 2007, placed in the top 10 at nationals.

Oakleaf appreciates that sentiment.

Neither rider started as a para-equestrian rider.

Oakleaf started riding horses in 1992 at age 12, and Shoemaker started riding at age 14. They are both committed to the sport of dressage.

“We’re not therapeutic riding,” Oakleaf says. “There’s a big difference. We are professional athletes. I try very hard to get people to see me as an athlete and as a rider. My goals are Olympics or Worlds.”

As with any other serious dressage competitor, Oakleaf trains daily on her two horses, City Girl, a Rhinelander; and Windsome, an Rheineland-Pfalz mare. She works out at the gym and swims to help keep her ready to ride.

“I think it is important that we show that the dressage and para-riders can compete together and not need to go to separate competitions,” says Baur.

“The organizers have been extremely nice, and I can tell that they really want para,” she says. “That’s the neat thing is that para is becoming big enough now that someone like Omaha wants it to be a part of their show. Five or six years ago people didn’t really know what it was.”

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 25

Military and First Responders Night An International Omaha Tradition by Howard K. Marcus

E

ach year since 2016, the International Omaha has honored a different entity during Military and First Responders Night.

The 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha’s spotlight will fall on the Omaha Police Mounted Patrol Unit, which is familiar to nearly anyone who has come to a large-attendance event in this area. Officers in the unit assist with crowd control at those events, but also do other police work including patrolling downtown Omaha, directing traffic, making traffic stops, and writing citations.

A highlight of the tribute will be a video about the patrol, with special emphasis on its newest equine member, a horse called Orozco.

Named after fallen Omaha Police Officer Kerrie Orozco, the horse was donated by Kerrie’s husband, Hector Orozco.

The video was put together by Doug Walker of Omaha Public Schools in consultation with Omaha Public Schools Director of Army Instruction Michael DeBolt and will feature remarks from Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer, video of the new horse’s training at the police horse barn, comments from the sergeant assigned to the horse, and more, says DeBolt, who coordinates the evening’s program.

The video will be shown following a portion of the equestrian competition, a performance of “Amazing Grace” by the Omaha Police Pipes & Drums, and a showing of the names of fallen military members and first responders, DeBolt says.

Mike West, CEO of the Omaha Equestrian Foundation, says inclusion of a Military and First Responders Night during the equestrian competition makes sense, as does honoring the Mounted Patrol Unit.

“Both the first responders and the military have horse history,” West says. “So there’s a natural fit there, but mostly we feel that both first responders

and military, they make so many sacrifices for our safety, and their families make sacrifices. When we have an event where we have an opportunity to provide the whole family with a recreational option in a good, healthy family activity, we feel like it’s our obligation to extend those courtesies to the people who make so many sacrifices for us.”

Beyond tributes to the Mounted Patrol Unit, fallen military members, fallen first responders, and their families, the evening will include a Junior ROTC drill team performance and participation

by Junior ROTC members from other Omaha-area high schools.

“All of these activities are basically there to enhance and educate around the competition, and to pay tribute to the philanthropic mission that we’re committed to as an organization,” West says.

DeBolt arranged for Junior ROTC participation by students in Omaha, Papillion, Boys Town, and Council Bluffs.

“Though I represent Omaha Public Schools, I try to get the other school districts engaged,” says DeBolt, a retired Army lieutenant colonel.

Students from each of the participating schools will handle a particular activity, from the drill team performance to presenting flowers to Gold Star Families to rappelling from the ceiling of CHI Health Center with the American flag.

The tribute to the Mounted Patrol Unit is the latest in what has been a series of tributes since 2016, when the evening saluted the centennial of ROTC in the Omaha Public Schools. That was followed by a tribute to the Greatest Generation in 2017 and one to therapeutic riding last year.

The themes for the annual tribute come about almost by happenstance.

“Every year it just seems like there’s something that pops up at us,” says West, who says the event’s planning committee discusses the options.

For example, when area organizations that provide therapeutic riding opportunities to military and first responders were honored last year, the reasoning was clear.

“A lot of times when both military and first responders are coping with stress-related conditions, those groups really help with that. Someone made that suggestion, and we thought it was great,” he says. “This particular year, someone just said, ‘Hey, you know what? We’ve had the Mounted Patrol every year, and we’ve really never featured them in this capacity. What do you guys think?’ And I think everybody said ‘Absolutely, we should.’”

West says the planning committee includes DeBolt, staff from the Omaha Equestrian Foundation, military members and veterans, a representative from the First Responders Foundation, and area first responders.

“It changes every year, but so far that’s been kind of the makeup of the committee,” he says.

Allen Batschelet, CEO and president of the First Responders Foundation, serves on the committee as lead planner and coordinator from the First Responders Foundation to the Omaha Equestrian Foundation event-planning team.

In addition to helping plan Military and First Responders Night, the First Responders Foundation identifies and coordinates resources that participate in the event, such as the Mounted Patrol Unit’s horses and officers.

“We’ve arranged promotional videos and testimonials and for hands-on demonstrations of the Mounted Patrol’s capabilities,” Batschelet says.

The First Responders Foundation is the primary nonprofit supporter of the Mounted Patrol. “We provide new horses when necessary,” Batschelet says.

“We help find homes for the horses when they are no longer able to serve.”

26 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 27

New Horse Courses Expanded Local College Provides Equestrian Certification by Kate Smith

T

he Horse Course 101 and 102 found their audience at Metropolitan Community College last year. This year, students can come back for more—the Equestrian Certificate.

Offering the courses on a course-by-course basis gives people the opportunity to explore a discipline that may otherwise only be offered at a 4-year university or trade school.

Since their educational partnership began in 2017, Omaha Equestrian Foundation and Metro have tried to bring equine training to the Omaha community. In fall 2018, they expanded their class list to include advanced grooming, stable management, competition management, and an equestrian internship. The completion of three of these courses, and the horse course pre-requisites, add up to a noncredit certificate.

“I didn’t want this to be an education process that’s unattainable; it’s a great career for the nontraditional student,” Roskens says.

“The original thought was to see if we could build an educational program to help train a workforce in equestrian sports and horse care,” says Lisa Roskens, OEF’s Chairman of the Board.

OEF brought their idea to Metro, who used Horse Course 101 and 102 to gauge the interest in the community. When courses hit their cap and attendance stayed high, motions were made to expand the program.

Roskens, who has been riding since she was 5 years old, sees the value that an educated workforce can bring to the equestrian community.

“What we want to do is expand the understanding of the job and increase the interest, and also then increase the number of qualified applicants for those positions.”

“The job is very different from the perception,” Roskens says, describing the long hours and sometimes dirty jobs that come with caring for horses.

The courses are made up of students with an average age around 35, though some have been as young as 8 years old. Some are looking for new hobbies and others are exploring a long-held passion.

“It’s a cross section of the community, truly,” Roskens says.

Though the program is run by Metro, OEF supports the program by providing information and education, including the instructors.

Dan Urban is the newest instructor and specializes in competition management. Shana Winkel has been with the program since its conception and teaches the horse courses and stable management.

She is currently working towards a Ph.D. in animal science.

“It’s kind of a humbling experience, you know,” Winkel says. “My background is just in English and show jumping so it’s been hard to incorporate the other disciplines in riding that make it a wellrounded class.”

In addition to the technical side of learning horse care and grooming, students are also exposed to history and traditions of the western world.

“I just try to keep everyone engaged and learning about what they want,” Winkel says.

Throughout the program, students get hands-on experience through field trips and volunteering opportunities with OEF. “Teaching the community about the sport is why we made this program,” Winkel says.

And while the certificate is meant to enhance the equestrian scene in Omaha, Roskens also recognized the benefit that this unique program could have nationally.

“It cuts both ways,” Roskens says. “Yes it’s for Omaha, but it’s for the bigger area, too.”

Roskens hopes their program will draw businesses and prospective students to the area and grow the Omaha equestrian community while also providing quality employees for other parts of the country.

For more information about the equestrian certificate, visit mccneb.edu.

28 \\ the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha

WHERE GREAT PARTNERSHIPS BEGIN.

Few facilities can match the partnership-building opportunities you and your horse can enjoy at Ponca Hills Farm. From beginner lessons for children to advanced training for Hunters, Jumpers and Eventers, you’ll find it here. Join the tradition of great horses and riders who have proudly called Ponca Hills Farm home.

Call at 402-453-4000 or visit us at poncahillsfarm.com

SHAN LAWTON DRESSAGE LLC Helping horses and riders achieve their potential from training level to Grand Prix!

A LWA Y S

OMAHA & LINCOLN

L O C A L,

shan.lawton@gmail.com shanlawtondressage.com

617.877.0785

A LWA Y S B E A U T I F U L.

Free with an Omaha Magazine Subscription.

OmahaMagazine.com/Subscribe

Organically grown Alfalfa Hay

Independent Saddle Fitter, serving the Midwest!

hansenorganic.com 402.680.7263

612.799.3811 thesaddlefits.com

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 29

Donors Individuals Michael and Laura Alley Chris and Kim Abbott Hap Abraham Chris and Cathryn Adderton Craig and Vicki Allen Michaela Ancona Niles Andersen Leslie Andersen Emily Anderson Mickey and Krista Anderson Heidi Basler Robert and Judith Bates Tom Becka John and Kris Bergmeyer Suzanne Border Lori and Rick Bucholz Buckshot Farms Judy Buscher Michelle Capponi William and Carol Carter Rick and Carol Copeland Kelly Cormaci Marla Corman Joanna Gale and Craig Cormier Patrick and Mary Corrigan James and Pamela Crowe Tere Culter Bill Cutler Mike and Mary Jo Dahir Stephanie Daubert Tim and Linda Daugherty Robert J Daugherty III Herbert and Risikat Davies Chip Davis Deb Denbeck Toba Cohen Dunning Catherine Duryea Robyn Eden Dan and Emily Elsasser Karen Ensminger Christina Falewich Michele Ferguson Pamela Finn Tim and Sue Flynn Gary and Kathy Gates Kurt Geschwender Matt and Melissa Graves Andrew Grier Caitlin Gustafson Deryl F. Hamann Don Hamilton Nancy and Randy Hanson Burke Harr Susan Harsin David P Hawk Paul and Rebecka Heaberlin Donna Heiser Loredana Hess Janie and Harry Hoch John Lee Hoich Diana Hopkins Ann and Dick Hudson Racheal Hull Gale Hunter Liv Hustvedt Sean and Jennifer Jacobs Mike and Stephanie Johanns Carter and Esther Jones Patrick Jung David Keffeler

Craig Kelley Patricia Kerns Carol Ketcham Dave and Vicki Krecek Tyler and Melissa Laflin Patricia Langer Sandra Lassley Laura Laughlin Bruce and Gerry Lauritzen William and Quinn Lawton Faith Lewis James Linder Lou Ann Linehan Emma Link Joan Lukas Ann Maloley Steve Martin Luke and Cheryl Matranga Andrew Mattox Jennifer Maxwell Debbie Maynor Nancy and Fred McBath Megan McGowan Kimberly McMillan Terry McMullen Paul Meyers Bryan and Kelly Mick Caroline Miller Michael and Brandi Miller Cynthia Milligan J. Michael and Jan Moriarty David and Susan Morris Pam Mortenson Mary Beth Muskin Ben and Diane Nelson Michael Nemer Laurie Nielsen Carol Olson Sean and Missy Peters Gary and Kim Petersen Robert and Sally Peyton Richard and Robin Putnam Christine Reed Lionel Reilly Don Rice David Rismiller Michele Roberts Bill and Lisa Roskens Paul Rutherford Troia Schonlau Joan Schulz Peggy Seymore Tom and Jennifer Simmons Jessica Simsek William and Lynette Singer Mary Sommer James Spitzenberger Mary Stultz Ann Benson and Dean Suing Lissa Sutton Michele Tetreault-Mertes Sarah Thayer Delmer Toebben Diana Ulmer Mary Anne Vaccaaro Dominic and Cindy Vaccaro Jeanette Vandeveer Katie Vap Judy Varner Dee Walter Patricia Waters Linda Watson

Mary Watson Stephen and Candyce Webb Nizar Wehbi Kevin and Sara Weiss Michael West Tom and Barb White Bob Whitehouse Carlie Wiley Margaret Williams Sharlene and Robert Wilson Suzanne Wright Mark and Katrina Wulf Michael and Gail Yanney Shirley Young

Foundations and Corporations Abbott Cattle Company America First Foundation Carl and Caroline Swanson Foundation Charles E. Lakin Foundation Creative Hair Design Debby Durham Family Foundation Dixon Family Foundation Douglas County Treasurer Dr. C.C. and Mabel Criss Memorial Foundation Forney Properties LLC James Skinner Baking Company Lozier Foundation Mammel Foundation McGowan Family Foundation, Inc. Nebraska Department of Tourism Omaha Car Care Omaha Community Foundation Omaha Public Schools Foundation Pape Family Foundation Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc. State of Nebraska Sunny Durham Family Foundation Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation The Fred and Sally Bekins Foundation Webster Family Foundation

In Kind Brody Robertson Show Jumps Jenny Buckley Club 17 Demo Arena Presenters Robyn Eden Kristyna Engdahl Far Hills Farm Farnam Pet Hospital Gallery of Breeds; Owners, Associations, & Horses George Haberman Lynn Kampschneider Anne Maguire Claudia Martin Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture Nebraska Dressage Association Omaha Magazine Omaha Mounted Patrol Ponca Hills Farm Quail Run Horse Centre Sheila Fitzgerald, A New Leaf Sybil Greene Washington County Historical Society

*This list reflects those vendors and sponsors known as of late March.

the 2019 Burlington Capital International Omaha // 31

Vendors

Sponsors Club 17

AAH Light Ariat Arista Barbour by Equine Impressions BioZyme Inc. Click Heat Coda Cavallo Riding Academy CWD Dechra Veterinary Products Der-Dau Diaz Candles Dietrich Equine Insurance Gunderson’s Jewelers Hansen Organics Haygain HETRA HORSE GYM USA® Kathy Kamei Designs KVK Jewelry Designs Lanie Frick Paintings Lawlor’s Custom Sportwear Lugano Nebraska Dressage Association Nelson Manufacturing Omaha Steaks Omaha Storm Chasers Outlaw Feed Prestige Italia Quail Run Horse Centre Ronald Ravan Sergeant Reckless Take Flight Farms The Dehner Company The Dressage Foundation The Impeccable Equerry The Paddock Therasage EMC Total Toys/Breyer Tracewear TransAgra University of Nebraska at Omaha Voltaire Design Wynmore Farms

Adequan AIM Media Ariat Baird Holm Bizzie O’Leary, Dietrich Equine Insurance Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska Bobcat of Omaha Breyer Burlington Capital Capitol District Classic Communications Colorado State University Commerce Bank Cox Communications Creighton University Heider College of Business DA Davidson Dodd Technology Dutta Corporation Equine Network Fairfield Inn Downtown Flood Communications Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Gunderson’s Jewelers HDR, Inc. Hilton Omaha J. Skinner Baking Co. JTWG KETV Kiewit Kubota of Omaha Lockton Lowe’s Lugano Lutz Marriot Omaha Downtown Capitol District Metropolitan Community College Mission Control Mutual of Omaha Bank National Equestrian Center Nebraska Medicine News Channel Nebraska Omaha Car Care Omaha Steaks Paul Lucht Feed Quail Run Horse Centre RFD-TV Rio Equestrian Center Rowan O’Reily S&W Fence SilverStone Group The Dressage Foundation The Paddock TransAgra International Triple Crown Nutrition Union Pacific University of Nebraska Medical Center University of Nebraska Omaha Visit Nebraska WoodmenLife World Equestrian Center

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

Lori Bucholz Karman DeLuca Breanne Demers Karen Ensminger Pamela Finn Sheila Fitzgerald Donna Heiser Wood Hull Susan Sucha Hull Melissa Laflin Jennifer Maxwell LeAnn Mercer Kelly Mick Christine Reed Michele Roberts Troia Schonlau Diana Ulmer Patrice Urban Pat Waters

Flag Horse Club AIM Media Dustin Bode Kay Brown Edith Conyers Rick and Carol Copeland Karen Ensminger Lori Falter Michele Ferguson David Fucinaro Sarah Gensler George Haberman Marilyn Houdek Barbara Ihle Holly Kaye Vicki Krecek Patricia Langer Barbara Milburn Lori Mingus Lisa Roskens Shari Stevenson Angi Ulrich Stephan and Candy Webb Sara Weiss Mike West