2014 New Bridge Polo & Country Club Magazine

Inside

35 5 7 9 10

Foreword/Contributors

Welcome Letter

Fall Schedule

2013-14 Tournament Winners

Cover: Photo by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions (803) 474-3094 / Ohschmidt.com

56 13 14 17 18 23 29 35 44 47

About New Bridge

A Polo Shirt Tells All

Polo Field Directions

Journey to the Top

Polo Equipment

The Rise of Shine

Game Time

USPA National Youth Tournament Series

Boarding Stable and GGT Arena

98

74 56 74 89 91 94 98 105 109 110

Los Modelos: Ponies of New Bridge

Clothes Horse

The Winter Season at New Bridge

Changing the Whole Person

Prince: From Polo Pony to Best Friend

The Quintessential Cottage

A-Z Polo

Advertisers List/Credits

Ride-Off

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letter from the editor contributors Welcome to the second edition of New Bridge Polo & Country Club’s magazine, an insider’s guide for both players and spectators.

This publication captures not only the thrilling, competitive sport of polo, but it also gives readers a view into New Bridge and Aiken’s unique equestrian lifestyle.

Polo ponies are remarkably strong and beautiful athletes. We pay tribute to them in “Los Modelos” on page 56. If you’ve never been to a polo game, I encourage you to bring your family and friends and enjoy the atmosphere. You will have the opportunity to see some of the best players and ponies in thrilling tournament action. See “A-Z of Polo” page 105 and “Polo Equipment” on page 23 for a primer on how the game is played. And, check out “Game Time” on page 35 for amazing photography that captures the fast paced action.

I invite you to enjoy some of our lifestyle sections including “Clothes Horse,” a fashion feature honoring our relationship with our equine partners and “Rise to Shine,” the story of a new micro distillery in nearby Edgefield. Brush up on your history on page 14 with “A Polo Shirt Tells All,” get tips from a pro on living in small spaces in “The Quintessential Cottage” on page 98 and don’t miss how Eric Brinkley improved his life in “Changing The Whole Person” on page 91.

Thanks to the many people who share our vision to produce a beautiful and informative publication. Our advertisers make it possible and our contributors are the stars of the show. They are experts in their respective fields who give us their insight and experience. Most of all, thanks to our readers who share our passion for everything equestrian.

Jen Easters is the manager of The Stables at New Bridge Polo & Country Club. She recently relocated from Florida and is embracing Aiken’s equestrian lifestyle. Her coordination skills to procure talent (two-legged and four-legged) for “Los Modelos” on page 56 and “Clothes Horse” on page 74 provide an accurate reflection of the people and ponies of New Bridge. Jen enjoys showing in the Hunter/Jumper ring and photography.

Mary Jane Howell loves everything about horses.

She writes about them (and other subjects) while she farm sits. Horses have been an integral part of Mary Jane’s career with many years as the PR Director for Dogwood Stable. Currently completing her first novel, you can enjoy Mary Jane’s eloquent writing in “A Polo Shirt Tells All” on page 14 and “Prince” on page 94.

Karin Jeffcoat is the owner of CÔte Designs, a floral boutique in historic downtown Aiken. Her floral design artistry and event planning expertise have received many accolades and her work has been featured in several national publications.

Her creative touch is highlighted in the “Clothes Horse” feature on page 74.

Chris Powers is the Chairwoman of Women Beyond Cancer, a non-profit corporation that offers retreats for women dealing with cancer.

Chris owns Two Sisters Farm in Aiken and graciously donated her styling expertise to “Clothes Horse” on page 74.

Kenny Ray is the owner of Kenny Ray Personal Fitness, a private personal training facility in Aiken. Kenny and Bill Cunningham have a combined 17 years of experience implementing methods to make Aikenites feel better, move more efficiently and increase strength. Kenny Ray Personal Fitness is a training facility where professional and amateur athletes, seniors, young professionals, and students all achieve their goals under the same roof.

Join me in celebrating polo at New Bridge!

Editor & Publisher, Katie Roth Katie with Assistant Stylist Taiga D

Shelly Marshall Schmidt of Oh Schmidt Productions is a commercial photographer who combines her love of photo illustration with custom printing. Shelly’s expertise is evident on the cover shot and throughout the magazine.

Her studio is located at 311 Hayne Ave S.W. in downtown Aiken and her website is www. ohschmidt.com.

Susan Victor is a co-owner and a lead designer for Nandina Home & Design with locations in Aiken and Atlanta. With years of experience in all aspects of interior design, Susan has worked with clients on projects ranging from simple paint and furniture selection to full-scale renovation and ground up construction. She believes that great interiors are defined as much by emotion as they are by beauty. Susan shares her expertise in “The Quintessential Cottage” on page 98.

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O

n behalf of New Bridge Polo & Country Club, I’d like to welcome you to the 2014-2015 polo season and the second edition of our magazine.

We’ve been working hard to bring you top-notch polo tournaments and the fields are in superb condition. This fall promises thrilling competition for both players and spectators.

I think you will agree that this magazine reflects the character of our community. Our focus is polo, but New Bridge means much more to the residents who live here.

It’s about the scenic countryside, the good friends and neighbors and the ability to live in a special place where we can enjoy our horses, no matter what discipline.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors, advertisers, members and guests for their continued support and loyalty. We look forward to building on what we’ve already accomplished to make New Bridge even better than it is today.

Aiken is a town whose equestrian past was founded more than a century ago on the perennial influx of the wealthy “Winter Colonists” from the Northeast and their pastimes of racing, carriage driving, steeplechasing, hunting, and polo for men and women. Polo has played a special part of the rich history here. More than a dozen members of the national Polo Hall of Fame are from Aiken. Today, competitors and enthusiasts travel from all over the world to play here. Many amateur and professional players have chosen to make Aiken their home.

Join us for polo and bring your friends and family.

Games are open to the public. Updated tournament information and field locations can be found on our website (www.newbridgepolo.com) or call our information line at (803) 644-7706.

See you on the field!

Russ McCall

New Bridge Polo & Country Club 862 New Bridge Road Aiken, SC 29805 Phone: (803) 648-3699 Fax: (803) 648-3830 Stables Manager - Jen Easters thestables@newbridgepolo.com (803) 648-3699 or (803) 634-7505

General Manager - Raza Kazmi info@newbridgepolo.com (803) 648-3699

Polo Manager - Haley Bryan Hbryan2485@aol.com (803) 215-3577

Real Estate - Willie Hartnett williehartnett@msn.com (803) 979-1617

Sponsorship/PR/Magazine Katie Roth katieroth@bellsouth.net (803) 341-8800

Polo Information Line: (803) 644-7706

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2014 POLO SEASON

FALL October 3-19 USPA Knox Cup 12 Goal Presented by

October 8-26 USPA President’s Cup 8 Goal

October 17 - November 2 USPA Continental Cup 12 Goal Presented by

October 24 - November 2 Fall Classic 6-8 Goal © Shelly Marshall Schmidt

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2013 Tourn a m e n t Wi n n er s

FALL

USPA Continental Cup 12-Goal Winners: Cooper Home & Stable John Mangin, JD Cooper, Pelon Escapite, Kris Kampsen MVP Pro: Pelon Escapite MVP Am: John Mangin BPP Pro: “Nemo” Owen Rinehart BPP Am: “Black Cat” Played by JD Cooper, Owned by Crestview Farm

© Katie Roth

Copa de Plata 8-Goal Winners: Wilcox Stan Sandefur, Brien Limehouse, Brad Limehouse, Tiger Kneece MVP: Tiger Kneece BPP: “Mira” Brad Limehouse

© Katie Roth

USPA Northrup Knox Cup 12-Goal Winners: Bottega Frank Stitt, Whistle Uys, Adam Snow, Agustin Arellano MVP Pro: Adam Snow MVP Am: Curtis Pilot BPP Pro: “Kayla” Frankie Bilbao BPP Am: “Panchita” Curtis Pilot © Louisa Davidson

President’s Cup 8-Goal presented by AgSouth

Winners: Blackberg Ranch Marcos Onetto, Gaston Bravo, Pedro Lara, Rob Berg MVP: Marcos Onetto BPP: “Elephant” Marcos Onetto © Katie Roth

Fall Classic 8-Goal Winners: Las Vinas Stacie Rodriguez, Tony Rodriguez, Eddy Martinez, Cesar Rangel, Nick Snow MVP: Cesar Rangel BPP: “Honey” Nick Snow © Katie Roth

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2 0 1 4 To u rn a m e n t Winners

SPRING

USPA Pete Bostwick Memorial 12-Goal Winners: Bottega Frank Stitt, Agustin Arellano, Adam Snow, Whistle Uys MVP: Agustin Arellano BPP: “Elizabeth” Whistle Uys

© Katie Roth

Members Cup 8-Goal Winners: Carrolton/Ride to Shine Martin Estrada, Willie Hartnett, Neku Atawodi, Carlos Lopez MVP: Willie Hartnett BPP: “Camo” Martin Estrada

© Katie Roth

USPA Tommy Hitchcock Memorial 12-Goal Winners: Dahlwood David Wigdahl, Tomas Obregon, Horacio Onetto, Jake Stimmel MVP: Horacio Onetto BPP: “Isinya’s Mad Dog” Owen Rinehart

© Katie Roth

© Shelly Marshall Schmidt

© Shelly Marshall Schmidt

© Shelly Marshall Schmidt

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About New Bridge

Š Shelly Marshall Schmidt

N

ew Bridge Polo & Country Club is a 861-acre private, gated community in a natural, wooded setting only minutes from downtown Aiken, a known haven for horse enthusiasts.

Residents and members enjoy five worldclass, championship polo fields, a 30,000 square foot GGT arena, a colonial-style clubhouse with outdoor asado, pool and tennis, an exercise track and miles of groomed, dirt roads perfect for riding and enjoying the countryside.

turnkey equestrian operation, or simply want to share in the ambience by living in a dream house on the edge of the polo fields, New Bridge Polo and Country Club provides the perfect location.

During polo season (spring and fall) member practices are offered three times a week where pros and amateurs play together. In addition, visiting players and teams participate in tournaments hosted by the club.

Cottage-style bungalows and residential homesites (half or full acre in size) are available alongside the wide expanse of a polo field, bordered by shady tracks, woodlands and board-fenced pasture. Larger, horse-friendly lots (from four to forty acres) are offered in a variety of locations throughout the community.

The architectural landscape at New Bridge Polo & Country Club is as diverse as it is unique. Whether you are looking for a N e w B r i d g e Po l o | 2 0 1 4 | 1 3

A Polo Shirt

Tells All

By Mary Jane Howell

o here I am, hanging around in your closet (pun intended), waiting to be worn. Bet you didn’t think that polo shirts could talk, but there’s a lot more to us than a few buttons and a versatile collar. Look at all our colors, our stripes, our iconic logos. Polos are not just another shirt, no sir; we are a wardrobe staple for men and women. We can be worn under a jacket with khaki pants for a formal look, or thrown on with a pair of shorts or jeans when all you want is comfort. We sometimes (wink, wink) even play polo!

My birthright is a bit of a muddle. If there was DNA testing for fashion classics the results might read like this – my paternal line is definitely Indian, but maternally it appears I am a mixture of both French and English, with a smattering of American blood mixed in.

Let’s get to it – put me on and let me tell you about my family tree.

The tour starts over here.

This photo is of my great, great grandfather. Doesn’t he look dashing swinging that mallet? He was a polo player in India at the time the country was ruled by the English Crown (1858 – 1947).

I realize the shirt he’s wearing doesn’t look anything like today’s polo shirt – it actually looks rather hot and uncomfortable. Long sleeves in that weather? The British cavalry who were stationed in India were fascinated by polo, and it was actually Captain John Watson, of the British Cavalry 13th Hussars, who created the first set of written rules for playing the game. Never mind that the first recorded tournament was in 600 B.C. when 1 4 | 2 0 1 4 | N e w B r i d g e Po l o

the Turkomans beat the Persians in a public match! The British needed to put their own stamp on the game, so written rules it was.

My great, great grandfather was Indian, but when the game was exported to England, the players remembered his shirt and made some adjustments to it. Their shirts were more like long sleeved cotton tees, with an added collar for a bit of flair.

To keep the collar from flying into their faces while galloping down the field, buttons were added to stop the annoying (and quite possibly dangerous) flapping.

The second photo I want to show you is my great grandfather on my mother’s side. His name is John E. Brooks. He looks rather dapper, but of course this was in the late 1800s when he was on a business trip to London and men of a certain social standing always looked dapper. Especially if their family were famous clothiers based in New York.

While at a polo match, he spotted the interesting collars on the players’ shirts and he took the idea with him when he returned home. The company’s tailors went to work on the button-down collar idea and when it was perfected, Brooks Brothers added it to their dress shirts and in 1986 launched what they termed “The Original Button-Down Polo Shirt.”

But where, you may ask, is the French influence?

Here, in the shape of one Jean Rene Lacoste.

He does not look particularly like a grandfather in his tennis whites, but he was incredibly

Ming important to the polo shirt family. In 1926 and 1927, he was the top-ranked tennis player in the world.

He found the tennis clothes of his time uncomfortable (long sleeved shirts and flannel trousers) so he designed a tee shirt with short sleeves in special pique cotton that gave the shirt breathability. He also added an unstarched collar and a longer back known as a “tennis tail” that could easily be tucked in. This shirt made its debut in 1926 at the U.S. Open Championship, which he won.

I know you’re probably thinking, but where is Ralph Lauren in all of this family history? Well, I’m proud to say that my pop is the true father of the polo shirt, as we know it today.

Lauren grew up in New York City and one of his first jobs was in sales at Brooks Brothers. Is that kismet or what?! In 1967 he opened up a small necktie store, selling ties of his own design under the name “Polo.” Lauren was very business savvy and he made sure from the very beginning that he had the rights to use the trademark Polo from Brooks Brothers.

Depending on which side of the Atlantic you were on, Lacoste’s nickname was either the Alligator (U.S.) or the Crocodile (Europe).

He was so proud of this sobriquet that he had the reptile embroidered on his blazers. Upon his retirement from tennis in 1933, Lacoste and his friend Andre Gillier (a knitwear manufacturer) formed La Societe Chemise Lacoste, which turned out his tennis shirts – all of which had a small embroidered crocodile logo over the left breast.

Lacoste’s shirts made waves not just in the world of tennis, but in other sporting realms as well.

Polo players quickly adopted them, as did golfers and other sportsmen. In 1951 Lacoste had another brilliant idea – he expanded the tennis “whites” and offered shirts in a variety of colors.

Whenever he is interviewed about why he chose “Polo” as his brand name, Lauren explains that he “was interested in promoting a lifestyle – and the sport of polo embodied a world of elegance and style.”

In 1972 Lauren unveiled Polo’s now-famous short sleeve pique shirt with the iconic polo logo – in 24 colors. It quickly became the brand’s signature look and millions have been sold in the ensuing decades. Although Polo Ralph Lauren manufactures everything from perfume to welltailored dresses to sheets, the polo shirt remains the company’s most beloved product.

“...and the sport of polo embodied a world of elegance and style.”

Well, there you have it, a short family history of the polo shirt. I’m ready to get out of here and be seen for what I truly am – a fashion favorite with a rich history.

Mary Jane Howell (803) 295-8294

Expert Horse Care Farm Sitting Pet Sitting N e w B r i d g e Po l o | 2 0 1 4 | 1 5

POLO FIELD DIRECTIONS Crestview Farm 894 Cooks Bridge Road

Tournament games & practice location: From 118 bypass, (Rudy Mason Parkway) take Wire Road for 2.5 miles. Take right fork onto Cooks Bridge Road. Go 3.9 miles and gated entrance on right.

Isinya Farm 381 Langdon Rd

Tournament games & practice location: Take Hwy 302, go east eight miles from the intersection of Highway 78 and 302. Turn right on Langdon Road, Isinya is the first driveway on the right.

Meadow Hill - Barrington Polo 491 Burkelo Rd

Tournament games & practice location: Take Hwy 302, go east 12 miles to Burkelo Road. Burkelo Road is the first road after the Wexford Mill entrance. Turn left on Burkelo and Meadow Hill Farm is on right with black fencing. Horse trailers & spectators can enter the farm via the

302 entrance... continue on Hwy 302 past Burkelo Road about 1/4 mile to drive entrance marked as 5003 Wagener Rd and turn left to enter farm.

New Bridge Polo Club 862 New Bridge Rd

Tournament games & practice location: Take Hwy 302, go east 5 miles from the intersection of 78 and 302 to New Holland Road. Go left. Go approx 1.5 miles to New Bridge Road. Go left. Go approx 2 miles to New Bridge Polo Club on left. From 118 bypass, take Wire Road, go 1.2 miles to New Bridge Road. Go right 3.6 miles to New Bridge Polo Club.

New Haven Farm 372 Langdon Rd

Tournament games: Take Hwy 302, go east for eight miles from the intersection of Highway 78 and 302. Turn right on Langdon Road. New Haven is the first driveway on the left.

Š Shelly Marshall Schmidt

Š Noel Johnson

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Journey

To The Top Hall of Fame Player Adam Snow Reflects on His Polo Career

By Katie Roth Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions

A

dam Snow never set out to be a

professional polo player. But sometimes, your career finds you instead of the other way around.

Polo is certainly an non-traditional career. There are not many professional polo players in the world – and even less from America. Most hail from Argentina, where the sport is as popular as baseball or football is here.

After graduating from Yale University with a B.A. in American History, Adam’s path seemed to be leading him towards a profession in International Relations or Journalism. But a series of events would turn him into a professional athlete instead.

Adam always enjoyed competitive sports, playing on the hockey and lacrosse teams in school. He was captain of the Yale University hockey team during his senior year. Polo was in his blood, however, and would soon emerge as his destiny. Adam was the third generation to pick up a mallet and his grandfather, Crocker Snow started him stick and balling at age 10. By 12, he was playing in his first tournament at the Myopia Polo Club in Hamilton, Massachusetts, along with his father, Terry and his godfather, Adam Winthrop (from whom Aiken’s Winthrop Field is named). He was not enthralled with polo at the beginning, but began to enjoy the competitiveness of the sport when Myopia started holding summer clinics for young players.

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Adam with Hale Bopp and her new foal.

After college, Adam applied for a two-year fellowship in South Korea. But the fellowship did not come through and Adam decided to spend the summer at Myopia playing 4 goal polo and watching the 7 and 8 goal players. At the invitation of Juan Martin Zavaleta, Adam went to Argentina to improve his skills hoping to play a season or two at Palm Beach professionally. From there, he went to Estancia La Pucara to learn under the 8 goal icon Hector Barantes. Adam was one of six riders there to train and who each had eight horses. “Always have a reason for what you are doing,” Hector told them. Adam says that all six of them stayed in polo one way or another and they still come across each other from time to time. “I was dropped into the best training grounds in the world – and it was all happenstance,” said Adam. After that, his career skyrocketed and he played on various teams all over the world.

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Not only has polo been Adam’s career for 26 years, his talent and abilities allowed him to reach the pinnacle of the sport as a 10 goal player. Adam joined this elite group in 2003 at the age of 38, possibly being the oldest player to be raised to 10. Only 21 American born players have achieved a 10 goal rating in the 124year history of the United States Polo Association.

In February of this year, Adam was inducted in the Museum of Polo Hall of Fame. He was flattered to receive this honor, and felt validated by the recognition from his peers for his successful career. He has been named the United State Polo Association’s Player of the Year twice, competed in two U.S. Opens (named MVP at one) and has had countless tournament wins. His wife, Shelley, three sons (Dylan, Nathan and Aiden), family members and many teammates (even from the early days in Mypoia) attended his induction ceremony, making the event even more special. “It was an emotional event – and a celebration. I am very thankful my family and friends were there to share it with me,” said Adam.

How do you achieve the accolades and honors that Adam has had in his polo career? He will be the first to tell you it was his “circle of support,” which was the

“Always have a reason for what you are doing.”

~ 8 goal icon Hector Barantes. theme of his speech at the induction ceremony. Adam says it would have been impossible to become a 10 goal player without the many factors that came together at the same time to allow him to attain his goal. From 1997-2005, the combination of having good horses, good teammates, Shelley (who is a vet) maintaining the health and performance of the horses and consistent grooms like Bento and Bete Da Silva encouraged Adam to play at his best.

He said he was lucky to have outstanding horses like Hale Bopp, Amy and Chloe in that period of his career.

Whitney Cup in Palm Beach, Florida. He coaches Team USPA in the spring and fall, sharing his experience and teaching skills with the next generation of players. He will continue to train young horses and selectively breed and sell. More time with family is also one of his priorities after traveling the globe for so many years. He also looks forward to recounting his experiences on paper to chronicle his unexpected journey to the top of the sport.

Adam’s journey to the top of the sport did not come without a few bumps along the way. At the age of 33, his handicap decreased from from 8 to 7 goals. Thinking his career was heading downward, he began to re-evaluate his future and wondered if he had peaked and needed to find another profession. After consulting with a sports psychologist, Adam committed himself to polo and becoming a perfect 10. A large piece of the puzzle was working on his mental game. Adam, who has an incredible work ethic, became mentally stronger and smarter about how to find his best performance focus. That, coupled with his already superior playing skills was his roadmap to becoming a 10 goal player.

What would Adam’s teammates and opponents say are his strengths? Most likely their answers would be his quickness, anticipation, equitation and patience to find pockets to turn the game quickly in his team’s favor. He is able to get the best out of his teammates and sees the importance of letting everyone have a role in the game.

All polo players say that their ponies make up a large part of their performance. Adam has played many superstar horses, such as Hale Bopp, Amy, Pumba and Bag Lady that were his partners in his success. Some of his favorite retired mares (including Hale Bopp) are now part of his natural breeding program at his farm.

In 1991, Adam and Shelley bought 24 acres in Aiken, close to Owen Rinehart. They had plans to develop a spring and fall training facility for American players. Aiken now boasts many spring and fall tournaments that are a part of the national polo calendar. Adam feels lucky to be here and enjoys practices with other top players including Owen Rinehart, Julio Arellano and Julian Daniels.

After such a successful rise to the top, Adam was concerned about what he would do next. Turns out he does not have to worry as he is busier than ever. He continues to play tournament polo (in Aiken, Wyoming and Florida) and recently provided commentary for NBC’s coverage of the 110th U.S. Polo Open and the C.V. N e w B r i d g e Po l o | 2 0 1 4 | 2 1

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Polo Equipment Players: Players are rated on a handicap system from -2 to10; 10 being the best in the world. Players are not limited by gender or age.

Polo Pony: Polo ponies are usually Thoroughbreds, selected for their speed, agility, endurance and intelligence. Most players believe their polo pony accounts for up to 75% of their game.

A.

Polo Ball: The ball is 3” in diameter and made of hard, white plastic that dents after continuous hits.

C.

B.

D.

I.

H.

F.

A: Helmet

E: Draw Reins:

B: Mallet

F: Boots/Wraps:

Helmets are required equipment for protection against swinging mallets, flying balls and spills.

Mallet lengths range from 49” to 54” to best fit a player’s swing and size of pony. They are constructed of bamboo cane with a tipa wood head.

C: Roached mane

Manes are clipped to prevent them from getting tangled with the reins and out of the player’s face.

D: Bridle:

Leather bridles are customized to fit each pony. The most common bits used in polo are the gag, snaffle and pelham.

E.

G.

A second set of reins for better control extends from the girth, through the bridle to the rider’s hands.

Used to protect the pony’s legs from the ball and mallet while providing additional support.

G: Boots/Knee Pads:

Leather boots protect the rider and knee pads guard again injury in a “ride-off.”

H: Shoes:

Give the pony better traction.

I: Tied tail:

Tails are tied to eliminate interference with the mallet.

© Shelly Marshall Schmidt

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The

Rise of Shine

By Katie Roth Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions

F

rom ground to jar, David Long and Cal Bowie are preserving an important piece of Edgefield’s history in their Carolina Moon Distillery.

Isn’t moonshine made illegally in the backwoods? Not anymore. Moonshine, a clear corn whiskey, is now becoming cosmopolitan and making a comeback after the whiskey trade went underground in the Prohibition days. Thanks to legislation passed a few years ago, many states now permit micro distilleries to produce moonshine in small quantities. Micro distilleries, also called “boutique,” “artisan” or “craft,” start with raw materials and create distilled liquors with great attention to detail. Every step of the process from the ingredients they use to the distilling process is essential to create a high quality product.

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room, and a gift shop with the distillery in the back. David and Cal welcome tours and the opportunity to share their story.

Since they’ve opened, David and Cal have been working hard to keep their product on the shelves. In six months, they have already met their two-year goal. Both are thankful for the welcoming reception from the community.

Many customers return to the store, eager to share the homemade recipes they have created with moonshine, Carolina Moon is not only popular to locals, people from all over the world have visited, taken a taste of moonshine and toured the distillery.

also bottle and package their products by hand. They are there every step of the way, creating a product that exceeds expectations.

David and Cal encourage enthusiasts to read the fine print on labels. A number of the big distilleries are creating their own “small batch” spirits to compete with the popularity of micro distilleries. Some that say “hand bottled by” may be distilled somewhere else.

That’s why the labels at Carolina Moon say “hand distilled and bottled by” – that way customers know David and Cal have handled the product from creation until it is sealed in the jar.

“ Edgefield Whiskey...

Mean enough to make a rabbit spit in a bull dog’s face”

Edgefield County, South Carolina has a rich history of moonshine and bootleggers and it is evident that Carolina Moon owners, David Long and Cal Bowie have whiskey making in their blood. They are both lifelong residents of Edgefield and their families have been in this area for generations. It comes as no surprise that their hobby of making moonshine is now a thriving business, along with third partner Bill Hatch, who is Cal’s cousin. You can’t help but like David and Cal when you meet them and their enjoyment of being a part of the revitalization of moonshine and their home of Edgefield is contagious.

The process of opening Carolina Moon Distillery has been a lengthy one, taking about two and a half years of paperwork and licensing before the first mason jar could be filled. They are the only micro distillery in Edgefield County and the first one in the CSRA. Once they were approved, David and Cal acquired a custom made pot still and started bubbling the mash. The combination store/distillery is located in Edgefield’s town square and has been wildly successful since the doors opened at the beginning of 2014. They’ve made great use of the space, with a street side storefront comprised of a tasting 3 0 | 2 0 1 4 | N e w B r i d g e Po l o

Carolina Moon products carry the Certified South Carolina Grown seal. This program is a cooperative effort with the South Carolina Department of Agriculture to brand and promote products made in South Carolina. David and Cal pride themselves on using local products and ensuring that each batch meets their high standard of quality. They use locally grown corn from Edgefield County to make the alcohol and distill each batch in the traditional method. David and Cal

The flagship of Carolina Moon is their 80 proof moonshine. This very smooth spirit is a favorite because of its flexibility.

You can add fruit, such as peaches, apples or cherries, or use it in Bloody Mary’s or Margaritas. Despite its clear resemblance to vodka, moonshine is distinctly different, with the subtle taste of corn, which aficionados can’t substitute. David and Cal say this is important to their loyal customers.... “if we wanted vodka, we would just keep distilling all the flavor right out - we like the taste of corn.”

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“ Why did we decide to open a micro distillery? Because someone told us we couldn’t , that’s why!”

If you are looking for a little more, their newest product, 116 proof moonshine is especially for those who love high octane.

Moonshine will always be a staple at the distillery, but Cal and David are also venturing into other whiskeys to expand their product line. Black Betty Whiskey was introduced this spring and is an 80 proof, corn whiskey that is lightly aged onsite with oak wood. Plans are also underway for a slow aged whiskey to be called Ole’ Tom, perfect to sip over ice for special occasions.

David and Cal’s success is a tribute to their determination, creativity and love for their home of Edgefield and all things local. You can taste it when you take a sip of their moonshine.

For more information on Carolina Moon Distillery, go to carolinamoondistillery. com or visit them at 116 Court House Square in Edgefield. They are open on Friday’s from noon until 6:00 and Saturdays from 11:00-5:00.

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GAME TIME

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USPA National Youth Tournament Series Hope Arellano, Malia Bryan, Jack McLean, Nick Galvan, Tristan Hurley, Mason Sease, Tess Pimsner, Eliza Limehouse

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Boarding Stable and GGT Arena Added to New Bridge Amenities

By Katie Roth

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iders of all disciplines can now enjoy the beautiful surroundings and amenities of New Bridge Polo and

Country Club. This unique property began as a polo community in 2000, but the recent additions of a competition size riding arena and boarding stable make this a haven for all horse enthusiasts. New Bridge offers something for everyone including

five championship polo fields, an Argentinian-style clubhouse, pool, tennis courts and miles of trails within the gated community.

Many three-day eventers (including international riders Jan Byyny and Doug Payne) winter at New Bridge, using the many riding areas to condition their horses for the upcoming show season. It

Š Shelly Marshall Schmidt

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is also a good place to give youngsters the opportunity to prep for their show careers in a calm, safe, environment.

The original 24-stall stable that once housed polo ponies has now been renovated into a boarding facility that offers luxurious accommodations for both horses and riders. The health of the horses is top priority here, with full care that includes feeding, blanketing and turnout. Custom mats, new stall doors and windows, fans and hot/cold water wash stalls have been added for the equine athletes. Boarders will enjoy a climate controlled tack room, a comfortable, techfriendly lounge, laundry room, full kitchen and a full bath.

The Stables are open for boarding to everyone - not just New Bridge residents.

It is a multi-discipline training facility.

Boarders have use of all the riding areas and there is no extra charge to bring in trainers for lessons. Even those who enjoy trail riding will love New Bridge, which has countless unpaved roads perfect for hacking through the quiet countryside of the community.

Proper turnout for horses can be hard to find, but not at New Bridge. There are many pastures ranging in size from a quarter acre to 20 acres – all secured with four-board fence and an abundance of lush grass.

Last winter, Longwood Arenas from Ocala, Florida, installed a 30,000 square foot, German Geo Textile Footing (GGT) arena near The Stables and field #2. GGT is a specific blend of materials that mimics the root structure of natural grass footing. The

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result is an all weather arena that drains well but also holds moisture. Arena building expert Joe Watkins oversaw the construction of the state-ofthe-art arena, which is receiving rave reviews. Hunter derby style fences and a perimeter of Š Katie Roth hedges complete the look and usability of the arena. It is currently open for schooling at $30/horse/ day (for non-boarders).

New Bridge prides itself on offering the best facilities for all horse disciplines. The new amenities are just the beginning of a community that caters to horse people and their four-legged partners.

For more information on The Stables, please contact Jen Easters to schedule a tour.

(803) 648-3699 / (803) 634-7575 (cell) / thestables@newbridge.com For more information on Longwood Arenas, contact Joe Watkins at (352-8048932) or visit longwoodarenas.com.

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CE-A

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Ruano

2000 A Horse from Uruguay, a Polo Breed, owned by Russ McCall King of the Pasture

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Eddie

2007 Thoroughbred, owned by Scott Silver The “best of the best”

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Farm Boy 2002 Thoroughbred, owned by Rick Hartnett Fastest horse in Rick’s string

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Misty 2006 Quarter Horse, owned by Willie Hartnett Misty appeared in Willie and Katy’s Save the Date Wedding Announcement

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Emilia

2007 Argentine Thoroughbred, owned by Marvin Slosman On the field, she’s a superstar, but off the field, she is a handful (a.k.a “bitch of the barn”)

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Billete

2006 Argentine Thoroughbred, owned by Stan Sandefur Loves peppermints

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Mini

2004 Argentine Thoroughbred, owned by Dardo Iglesias A polo machine

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Exclusive Clothing, Gifts & Sporting Art

Custom Riding Boots Starting at $750

• • • • • •

Polo Hunter/Jumper Eventing Fox Hunting Cowboy Fashion

www.equinedivineonline.com 126 Laurens St. SW • Aiken, SC 29801 • 803.642.9772

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Clot hes Horse clothes • horse [klohz-hawrs] noun

Someone who likes to wear stylish clothing and accessories.

They are passionate about the latest fashions and usually dress their horses and dogs in the same manner.

Photography by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions

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“I don’t design clothes, I design dreams.”

~ Ralph Lauren

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“I don’t do fashion, I am fashion.” ~ Coco Chanel

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“Over the years, I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.� ~ Yves Saint Laurent

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“When in doubt, wear red.” ~ Bill Blass

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The Winter Season at New Bridge International three-day competitor Doug Payne shares why he comes to New Bridge to train for the upcoming show season.

By: Katie Roth

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lthough Aiken is home to many polo players, it is also home to many three-day eventers who spend their winters taking advantage of warmer weather and training on the sandy soil. Doug Payne, one of the most well known competitors in the eventing world, spends his winters at New Bridge Polo & Country Club.

Doug - an accomplished rider, trainer, judge and author - has spent the last three winters at New Bridge and enjoys the abundant space and privacy. While staying here, he rides 12-15 horses per day and takes advantage of the many riding areas in the community. The roads are perfect for hacks and the gallop from phase 1 to phase 2 gives him good elevation changes to prepare his horses for the

season ahead. “The footing is great and holds up well in all kinds of weather,” Doug said. “I love this location because it is not only close to the eventing venues, it is near town and just a few minutes from Highfields, where we take the horses for show jumping.”

Aiken is the seasonal home for many eventers who bring their horses to train and compete in numerous competitions from January through March. Doug has been coming here for the past six years and likes the low-key atmosphere of the community, the people and the fact that everything is close. He likes that there is a lot of variety for the horses here, especially the young ones who are preparing for a show career.

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Doug has extensive competition experience through the CCI**** level of Eventing, Grand Prix Show Jumping as well as Intermediare Dressage. Best known in eventing, he has won countless national and international competitions from Beginner Novice through Advanced. Since 2010, Doug has been named to the USEF High Performance list with multiple horses. He also holds both USEF Judges and TD’s licenses for Eventing, and is a USEA certified level III instructor.

Known as the rider to turn to when you have difficulties, Doug has made a name for himself by turning “problem” horses into successful partners. He is a master at solving training problems and behavioral issues. This may be due not only to his vast experience of riding all different kinds of horses, but also to his Mechanical Engineering degree which gives him a black and white, analytical approach to problem solving. His calm, confident demeanor and expert riding ability have allowed him to “fix” many horses that others may have given up on.

It comes as no surprise that Doug has been so successful in the horse world. He was raised in a prominent horsey family where he and his sister Holly were immersed in horses from the start. They came up through the ranks in pony club and Doug was exposed to all disciplines – even the lesser known tetrathlon (which combines marksmanship and riding) and vaulting.

His mother, Marilyn, maintains a busy training and judging business, which gave Doug and Holly exposure at a young age to all types of horses. Marilyn is a USEF “S” dressage judge and FEI Eventing judge. She was a member of the Ground Jury for the Three-Day Event at the Hong Kong Olympics in 2008 and President of the Ground Jury at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky in 2010.

Today, Holly is also an accomplished rider, competing through the CCI**** level of eventing.

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presence. Tali, owned along with Larry and Amelia Ross, is an exceptional horse and Doug feels very fortunate to have him. He recently received a Land Rover Competition Grant to compete at the Saumur CCI3* in France in May. The pair earned a sixthplace finish - their second top 10 CCI3* placing after finish fourth at the 2013 The Dutta Corp Fair Hill International. Doug and Tali are tentatively slated to return to France this fall for Les Etoiles de Pau CCI4*.

Since Doug’s stay at New Bridge last winter, he has been very busy. He married Jessica Hampf in March and they have made New Hill, North Carolina, the new home base of Payne Equestrian Sport Services and Sales. The primary focus of the business is training and competing horses not only for eventing (which makes up 70%) but also show jumping and dressage. At any given time, there are 15-20 horses there for training in different stages of development.

This year has also been busy for Doug competitively. His career has already been filled with top-notch competitive horses and his current partner, Crown Talisman, or “Tali” is certainly no exception.

The 11-year-old dark bay Holsteiner/ Thoroughbred gelding stands at 17.1 hands and is full of talent, athleticism and

Writing has been another area of Doug’s success and he can add author to his list of accomplishments. He began by contributing to magazines such as Practical Horseman, The Chronicle of the Horse, U.S. Eventing, Eventing Nation and other regional and national publications. In 2009, Doug designed and produced The Rider’s Eye instructional DVD along with legendary rider and trainer Jim Wofford.

His new book, The Riding Horse Repair Manual gives solid advice and strategies for riders of all disciplines. This is the first book Doug has authored himself and he wanted to write it to help everyone who interacts with horses. He did not want it to be discipline specific because he believes “good riding is good riding, no matter what you do.” The book is a quick reference guide of tips and techniques to find sensible solutions to common training and behavior problems. It is getting rave reviews and accolades from readers.

What are Doug’s goals for the future? He would like to be able to compete in any discipline and be competitive. When asked if he would like to give polo a try, he said “yes!” Maybe his stay at New Bridge next winter will involve a little stick and ball practice?

For more information on Doug Payne and Payne Equestrian, please visit www. dougandjessicapayne.com. To order “The Riding Horse Repair Manual” visit www. horseandriderbooks.com.

Changing the Whole Person By: Kenny Ray, owner & Bill Cunningham, trainer at kenny ray Personal fitness photos: dave canestrari

Kenny Ray Personal Fitness (KRPF): Since you’ve been training at KRPF, how has your idea of fitness changed?

Eric Brinkley (EB): I used to think that fitness was just weightlifting and running. Now I realize that fitness is multidimensional. It’s not only being strong and having good cardiovascular endurance, but also being mobile and able to recover from certain tasks quickly.

KRPF: Did you envision this much progress when you first started training?

EB: Oh no! At first I trained because it made me feel so good. My initial long-term goal was to get to 225 pounds. When I was 313 pounds, I wanted to be 225, because I think at the time 225 pounds was the “line” for me not falling into the “obese” category. So I just wanted to be 225. That was really my only goal – to be 225.

KRPF: Throughout this process, it seems like you’ve been great about going with the flow. You’ve been very “one-step-at-a-time.”

During the brainstorming process for this article, we discussed many different approaches.

After much thought, we decided to present the remarkable story of our client Eric Brinkley in his own words. Taking control of personal health can transform every aspect of life. Eric needed change not only to improve his physical and psychological health, but also to improve his ability to perform a physically demanding job as Operations Manager for Aiken Laundromats. This story emphasizes how being patient and taking the time to truly understand the various aspects of fitness can drastically affect outcome. A true lifestyle change even carries over to other members of the family.

We interviewed Eric and his mother Melinda Brinkley (also a client at Kenny Ray Personal Fitness) to show how Eric’s journey has impacted the entire Brinkley family.

EB: I think you have to be that way. I think that’s why a lot of people set themselves up to fail. Say you want to lose weight. You need to work on nutrition one-step, physical training second-step – you can’t start off trying to make all of your healthy changes at once. If you try to do everything at once, you’re probably setting yourself up to fail. But if you focus on one thing at a time, you can eventually reach your goals. It’s a lot to all-at-once try to work out and change your nutrition. “I’m starting tomorrow, I’m going to eat right and work out!” I personally think that’s just too big of a change to take on all at one time. So that’s why you have to do it step-by step. You can’t get in a hurry. Then when that bad week comes along and you gain a pound, you’re prepared. If you’re in a hurry, a bad week can knock the wind out of your sails. Sometimes you can maintain weight for almost a month, and then lose four pounds in a week. Weight can be deceiving. There was a time when I was 225, and a buddy of mine who was the same height was 225, and let me tell you: there was a huge difference.

KRPF: At what point did the shift from, “I can lose 75 pounds” to “I can perform, I can be an athlete” happen?

EB: It was a gradual realization, but I first started noticing because I began to recover from exercise faster and perform activities longer than other people my age could.

KRPF: When did you realize that losing weight and keeping it off meant that you had to get strong and strength-train?

EB: When you explained to me that fat doesn’t burn calories at rest, but muscle does.

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KRPF: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

yourself as “the fat kid.” What do you mean by that?

EB: That weight loss is 80 percent about what’s on your plate and only 20 percent about what you do in the gym.

EB: I had always been the fat kid growing up. I was always heavier than the other kids. Then as you get older, you’re always asked to play Santa Claus because “the suit fits you well.” That’s kind of funny and fun, but it also sucks. You can’t wear stylish clothes because they don’t fit. I would find a shirt I liked at say, Abercrombie and Fitch, and I was told, “we don’t make your size.” It just gets old. You continue to make excuses and tell yourself, “I could be worse,” but eventually the excuses run out, and you have to face the truth.

KRPF: What effect does your new fitness level have on people close to you?

EB: I think it makes them more aware of the decisions they make about food and exercise. They often ask my opinion about food options or exercise in general. Initially, my family started making healthier choices to support me, but by doing so, they learned that healthy food not only tastes good, but makes them feel good too. It made them realize that sitting around and just putting off making changes in their lives was a complete waste of time. There were no longer excuses.

KRPF (to Melinda Brinkley, Eric’s mother): How does Eric’s transformation make you feel?

Melinda Brinkley (MB): I’m a very proud mother. He’s more confident and stronger. His ego is better. He used to not have an ego at all, and I think people should have a little bit of that. It’s made me very proud to know that he can accomplish something this great, because that is no small feat whatsoever. And he didn’t have a lot of encouragement from us when he started to become healthier because he was away at college. He did a lot of the early work on his own.

KRPF: Has Eric’s success affected your life?

MB: Yes, because it made me realize I could do the same thing. I could be strong, I could train…I know I’m older, but it made those things seem attainable. It was such an accomplishment, I thought, “I want to do that, too. I want to be in that same place. I want to be stronger.”

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regressed. Why? EB: I made it a point to be…it was not a “diet.” I wanted a lifestyle change. I wanted a new lifestyle based on eating better and exercising. I told myself, “I don’t want to make these changes and then eventually switch back.” I had already done that. I had done all of the fad diets. When I finally stuck with a sound game plan for an extended period of time, I began to see that it was working. Then you see that it continues to work. Then you get used to doing it. Then, finally, you do it without even thinking about it anymore. When you change your lifestyle, the way you process and think about things changes and you really don’t backslide, because you don’t have the same cravings. If I wanted to have something sweet, I would have one bite. Or, if I wanted something sweet, I would just eat it, I wouldn’t hold myself back. Sometimes I think when you constantly say, “I can’t do that, I can’t do that, I can’t do that,” it can end up all tumbling down like dominoes. Then that’s when you have that week when you eat everything in sight.

KRPF: Do you have more willpower than most people?

EB: No. I think my willpower is very low compared to most people. I’ve been asked that before. People say, “Well, you can do it because you have strong willpower.” No. I did it because I needed to, not because I was determined to do something.

KRPF: Could you have made this type of a turnaround at another place?

KRPF: Are you the same person now that you were before?

EB: No, I’m not I am more comfortable in my own skin. I don’t feel that I have to compensate for anything now to make up for my weight. It also has made me realize that true success comes with hard work and time, not overnight.

KRPF: One of the most impressive things we’ve noticed during our journey with you is that we can’t recall one period when you

EB: No. KRPF: Why? EB: It’s because of the personal attention I get here. The fact that you understand that I’m occasionally going to have bad weeks, but that excuses run out at a certain point.

I get constructive criticism. I guess you just don’t ever make us feel bad. And you are passionate about this, and that spreads

through everything. You show us all that this can be done, because we see you doing it yourselves. You don’t ask us to do anything that you can’t do. And there’s not 10,000 other people walking around paying attention to someone when they come here to train. Then there are the people that train at the same time of day that I do; they become a support system as well.

KRPF: What is it about training here that you like so much? What makes you comfortable here?

EB: You are passionate about this, and it shows. You always find new things to improve upon. You always take the time to explain why we do things, especially repetitive exercises. It’s fun to improve. I remember when I couldn’t do one push-up. I couldn’t do one pushup on my knees! A lot of it is just that y’all care. You care about us… about everybody. You probably want us to succeed more than we want to succeed ourselves.

KRPF: Everyone wants to look better, there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s natural. And it is nice to see all the different things you can begin to accomplish strength-wise; how those things can translate to what you do every day.

EB: I mean, yesterday I unloaded 100 five-gallon buckets of car wash chemicals. And I did it by myself. I didn’t realize it until I was done. That kind of hits you deep down, because it’s something that before you just couldn’t do. Then you realize that you just did it and you didn’t have to think about it. That’s almost better than getting a compliment.

KRPF: Because it’s tangible?

EB: Yes. And you know you could do it again. It wasn’t just a onetime thing.

For more information on Kenny Ray Personal Fitness, please call (803) 622-5254 or (706) 294-5152 for a free consultation.

KRPF: So what happens now? You’ve lost well over 100 pounds, you’re wearing completely different sized clothes. You literally look like a different person. Why are you still motivated? You still work hard every time you come here, and you’re still very consistent. You must be doing it for some reason?

EB: I’d like to have more muscle. There are daily examples on the job as to why this is still beneficial, like when it was so easy for me to tote shingles up to the roof a few weeks ago. It’s amazing how much longer I can do things. We had to load a bunch of wood onto the truck after the ice storm, and I made it into a competition. I was throwing the stumps onto the truck like kettle bell swings. It’s FUN to be physically fit. So I want to get stronger to see what other things will become easy to do. I don’t want to say, “I want to be more cut,” but there’s always aspects of my body that I’d like to look better.

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Prince

From Polo Pony to Best Friend

By Mary Jane Howell Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions

He came from the pampas of Argentina, this magnificent Thoroughbred with a copper coat and white socks. Larger than what you would expect a polo pony to be, Prince (not his first name – but that has been wisped away on the breeze of history) did not let his stature impede his game. He was an accomplished player in his early days, and as he aged his athleticism gave him ample opportunities to excel at a variety of pursuits. These days Prince lives like royalty on Two Sisters Farm with his owner Chris Powers, only working when he wants, and keeping everyone else in line.

So Prince, who had moved from one continent to another as a youngster, became a Southern gentleman. The gelding wasn’t at Jill’s farm for very long before Chris came along, having spread the word that she was looking for a hunt horse.

Originally owned by Marcos Bignoli, noted polo player and manager of the Capitol Polo Club in Poolesville, Maryland, Prince played in tournaments up and down the East Coast for several years. In the off-season he was boarded, along with the rest of Bignoli’s polo ponies, at Jill Diaz’s Estancia La Victoria in Wagener.

Chris hunted Prince for several years and the big, gutsy Thoroughbred pretty much out jumped and outlasted everyone else in the field.

“Prince was in his mid-to-late teens when Marcos retired him,” explained Jill. “He was still sound and in good health, but he was beginning to lose a step and Marcos wanted him to have a chance at another career.”

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“It was just meant to be,” laughed Jill. “She had heard through a mutual acquaintance that I had this new horse and when she came over to see him they hit it off right away. He wasn’t ‘retired’ for long!”

“Other riders always commented on what a nice horse he was,” which of course made me feel good,” she laughed.

But perhaps more than any of his other jobs, Prince found his calling as a “retreat horse” at Two Sisters Farm.

Chris lost her sister Jean Powers to breast and brain cancer in 2002, before they could realize their joint dream of owning a horse farm together. And although the farm has brought peace and healing to Chris, she has also found a way to honor her sister and bring joy to women fighting their own battles with cancer.

“We are now in our sixth year of holding Women Beyond Cancer retreats,” explained Chris. “We do about five retreats a year, and each one lasts four days. There are no set schedules or agendas for the women – instead they have the freedom of living in the moment.”

When the retreats first started, Chris offered slow, meandering trail rides for the women who wanted to experience horseback riding.

Now, however, insurance issues come into play, and riding is no longer an option.

These days Julie Robbins of the Aiken Horsemanship Academy is on hand to bring the healing energy of horses to the women through simple groundwork.

drawn to him,” Chris said. “I remember one woman who was so frightened of horses. She stood far away from Prince and little by little she got closer. Then she was on the mounting block, and then she was leaning over his back, just sobbing.

Prince never moved – not one step. He understands that this is his job now and he takes it very seriously.”

And where does Prince come into the picture? During the retreat Shelly Schmidt will hold photo shoots, and the women are “styled” by Chris, who was a former model.

In one photo, seven women surround Prince, and he is wearing a straw sun hat.

His eyes are closed. You can’t get further away from a life as a fast-playing polo pony than that scene.

“Prince just emits this peace and understanding – and the women are just

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Although Prince’s arthritis keeps him from being ridden, he loves to be ponied when Chris exercises one of her other horses. He adores his daily baths when it’s hot. He has a lush pasture where he grazes to his heart’s content at night, and then he’s brought into a huge stall with fans during the day (the routine changes in the winter, of course). His best friend is a mini named Slicky.

He’ll put up with Chris’s dressage horses, Olive and Munnings, because he knows deep in his huge heart that they could never fly down a polo field with mallets being swung, balls hit, and where stopping on a dime in de rigueur for the day.

No sir. There’s only one true Prince on Two Sisters Farm.

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The

Quintessential Cottage

By Susan Victor Photography by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions

I had rather be shut up in a very modest cottage with my books, my family and a few old friends, dining on simple bacon and letting the world roll on as it liked, than to occupy the most splendid post, which any human power can give.�

- Thomas Jefferson

W

hat is it about the humble cottage that brings out the romantic in so many of us? Is it the yearning for a simpler, smaller existence in this big crazy world? Or do we associate it with carefree getaways to the beach or the mountains? Does it appeal to the desire to live large in a small space, or to have less to maintain, clean and care for? Whatever the siren song - the cottage remains a staple for many native Southerners and transplants alike.

Today’s definition of a cottage is usually applied to a small frame, one-family house of 1,200 square feet or less. In the Middle Ages, cottages housed agricultural workers and their friends and families. The term cottage denoted the dwelling of a cotter. Thus, cottages were smaller peasant units. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term cottage is used in North America to represent “a summer residence (often on a large and sumptuous scale) at a watering-place or a health or pleasure resort” with its first recognized use dating to 1882, in reference to Bar Harbor in Maine.

Today, the term cottage is used in a more general and romantic context and usually means a modest, often cozy dwelling, typically in a rural or semi-rural location.

The Aiken cottage has a long history dating from the early 1900’s when the seasonal society led by Thomas Hitchcock, Sr., William C. Whitney and their friends decamped with their families and horses from the frigid northern winters to enjoy our mild warmer climate.

Although palatial in size, many of the Winter Colony homes were called “cottages” by their owners in reference to a second holiday home.

Today, many of the small cottages that sprung up during that golden era line the historic avenues of Aiken and have been lovingly restored by a new generation of seasonal residents and full-timers alike.

When asked why they chose cottage living, many of these small dwelling homeowners share the following common themes for their rationale.

Previous Page: Outdoor entertaining on the porch is a common theme among cottage homeowners.

Left: This antique claw footed tub is a showstopper in the black and white bathroom.

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The high ceilings in this small cottage can easily handle an elegantly draped four-poster bed.

Cottages are easier to take care of and maintain Seasonal and full-time residents alike find that the smaller footprint of a cottage is much easier to care for and maintain than a larger home and property. In addition, the smaller footprint of a cottage requires less investment on big ticket items like the roof, exterior painting and siding - allowing owners more money to splurge on the interiors and yard. Local restaurant owner Randy Stamm chose cottage living for the ease of maintenance, but didn’t scrimp on style or comfort for the inside or outside of his little Shangri-La. The fenced back yard was transformed into an oasis of lush plantings, a custom pool and an outdoor shower. The inside reflects Stamm’s love of rustic industrial design with a dash of color. “I had a vision of how I wanted to live in this small space and Michele Merritt, my designer, worked with me to make it a reality. The cottage is a perfect reflection of my taste,” states Stamm.

The decreased costs associated with maintaining a small cottage can allow for spending on bigger ticket items like this lush outdoor pool and living area.

Architecturally, cottages are more unique and less cookie cutter In this day and age of the perfectly groomed gated community, the cottage screams character. Small floor plans with quirky footprints along with unusual moldings and aged plank floors remind us more of an independent feisty old maid aunt than a stylish female executive.

Although historic by nature, the cottage does not necessarily dictate the personal style of its occupants.

Like Stamm, the owner often feels the freedom to interpret their personal style in their cottage.

From traditional to transitional to contemporary, the unique character of the cottage lends itself to creative interpretation of the interiors and exterior.

Above: This cottage mixes the homeowners antique treasures and new finds comfortably together Right: This handsome dining room with rustic elements like cowhide cushions, iron chandelier and live edge dining table is enhanced by the simple architecture of this cottage.

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Cottages harken back to a simpler time and lifestyle The diminutive size of the cottage encourages togetherness and the standard issue wide front porch welcomes the outside world in. Sitting on a porch harkens to a simpler time and lifestyle and nourishes a Southerner’s soul. A cottage is all about hospitality, with no massive foyer and no formal living room. It welcomes guests from the minute the door is opened.

Creative use of space is a must when planning the interiors of the typical cottage. Hanging bikes as art on the walls is an example of creative use of space incorporated in the cottage featured here. The small space can sometimes be challenging, but on the other hand it encourages togetherness and a simplification of busy lives.

Beyond the financial, social and ecological benefits of cottage living, there is also a great sense of history. Many cottages retain a wealth of original features, such as oak beams and brick floors. Owners feel pride in knowing they are preserving a piece of history, while they still enjoy the flexibility to customize their living space to their needs. Since they are usually located in neighborhoods, the allure of cottage living appeals to many who want a sense of community. Many owners will agree that there’s nothing like a quaint, cozy cottage.

Top: The wide front porch of this quaint cottage welcomes guests.

Middle Right: Man’s best friend greets guests inside.

Bottom Right: The limited square footage in a cottage often calls for creative use of space. In this cottage the owner’s bike hangs on the wall of the living room as art.

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A Dutch door and custom bench makes a humble mud room into a feature space of this cottage.

Interior design: Michele Merritt, ASID allied Designer, Nandina Home & Design Susan Victor, Designer Nandina Home & Design Special Thanks: Three Monkeys Fine Gifts for Tableware

A

A-Z

of

C D E F G P O LO

A I D : Any signal given to a horse to prompt it to turn, change gaits, or perform some other maneuver.

A N N O U N C E R S : Sometimes employed by the club to announce games for the crowd, sometimes volunteers, these individuals possess varying amounts of talent, knowledge and wit.

B

A P PE A L : Claim by player for a foul, usually expressed by the

raising of mallet above their head. Overly demonstrative appealing is considered very bad form.

A RG I E : Player from Argentina, a country noted for producing top polo players and ponies.

B AC K :

The number 4 in a polo team is usually referred to as the “Back” rather than by a number lie the other members of the team.

B AC K S H OT: Hitting the ball in a direction opposite to that which the player is travelling.

B A L L : (1) The entire point of a polo match is to wallop the ball up the field and through the goal posts. Polo balls are about three and a half inches in diameter, weigh four and a half ounces and are made of hard wood or plastic. (2) A Black Tie or Fancy Dress event, usually consisting of dinner and dancing, sometimes benefitting a charity.

B I G S T I C K : The highest rated player on a team, a term usually reserved for players of considerable talent and showmanship.

B I T: The mouthpiece to which the reins are attached.

B OA R D S : Made of wood or plastic, up to eleven inches in

height, they run continuously along the sidelines of the field to help keep the ball in play and the game flowing. Players may ride outside the boards as long as the ball remains within them.

B U M P : A defensive maneuver on the field, which is one of the few contact moves allowed. A player attempts to ruin an opponent’s run with the ball by bumping his horse against the other player’s. This action is regulated by the angle at which the aggressor attempts it. It may never be executed at more than 45 degrees., and the faster the horses are running, the smaller the angle allowed.

Article reprinted courtesy of Calgary Polo Club.

C H U K K E R / C H U K K A : The origins of this term, meaning the “basic period of play,” are obscure, although it is thought to have come from India. There are between 4 and 6 chukkas of play (dependant on the level of polo being played) - each lasting 7 minutes. With 30 seconds left in play a bell is sounded to warn the players.

D I VOT S : Chunks of grass and earth that the horses have torn out of the field. The holes can cause bad bounces of the ball and other problems during play, so traditionally at half time the fans venture out to stomp divots, thus repairing the playing surface.

E N D S : The back lines of a polo field, teams witch ends (switch the goals they defend) each time a goal is scored to equalize weather and turf conditions.

F I E L D : Regulation polo fields are 300 yards by 160 yard, a space big enough to fit nine football fields into. The goalposts are set eight yards apart.

F O U L : An infraction of the rules set forth by the United States Polo Association (USPA), Fouls govern safe riding and the concept of the line of the ball.

G A I T: The manner in which a horse goes, based on the sequence and rhythm of its foot movements, walk, trot, canter, or gallop.

G OA L : A goal is scored every time the ball passes between the goal posts, whether hit by an offensive player, defensive player, or pony.

G R E E N H O R S E : A term used to refer to a young or

inexperienced horse.

G R E E N H O R S E P O LO : Special non-competitive games structured for the development of skills and confidence in young ponies.

G RO O M : (a) Polo grooms are responsible for the care of a player’s ponies and their equipment. They feed, muck out, ‘tack up’, check horses for signs of injury, school and practice horses and liaise with vets and farriers. Grooms usually travel with a particular player and set of horses. The groom will therefore have particular knowledge of the needs of both the ponies and the player. Good grooms are highly respected and can contribute hugely to the success of a player. (b) The act of transferring the dirt from a horse to the individual grooming it.

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H

H A N D I C A P : The comparative rating of polo players awarded by the USPA. Handicaps are expressed in goals (to describe a player’s value to the team, not the number of goals he is expected to score,) and range from the beginner’s minus 2 to the best possible 10 goals. Player’s handicaps are added together to calculate a team handicap that is used to equalize competition.

The difference in goals between two teams is awarded to the lower rated team before play begins.

H A N D S : The unit of measurement for the height of a horse, one hand equals about four inches.

H I G H G OA L : Teams with total handicaps from 18 to 26

goals.

H I T - I N : A hit-in takes place when the ball goes over the back line, wide of the goal mouth. The defending team hits the ball back into play from the back line. This gives the defending team a free hit and can often change the momentum of play.

M

LOW G OA L : Teams with a total handicap of less than 8

goals.

M A D E P O N Y: A pony that is well trained for polo and has been playing for some time.

M A L L E T: The instrument used to move the ball. Although fiberglass has been used in construction, the shaft is most often made of bamboo. The ball is hit with the side of the hardwood head. Mallets range from 48” to 54” and are selected depending on the size of the pony.

M E D I U M G OA L :

Teams with a total handicap of 8-14

goals.

M Y L I N E : Words often shouted by a player to an opponent to indicate that (in his opinion) he has right of way to the ball.

NEAR SIDE:

I J K N L O H O O K : One of the two defensive maneuvers allowed in the

rules- the other is the ride-off. The mallet is used to block or interfere with another player’s swing at the ball although it must be used in an approved manner. Unsafe hooking or hitting into a pony is a foul.

I N T E RVA L S : Three minute long rest periods between

chukkas. Half time is ten minutes.

I RO N S / S T I R RU P S : Steel loops to support the rider’s feet, often with a wide flat base to provide more stability while standing to make a shot.

J U D G E S / F L AG G E R S : Goal judges are positioned behind each set of goal posts to observe and signal when a goal has been scored. A red flag waved in the air signals a goal; waved below the waist it indicates no goal.

K N O C K - I N : Should a team, in an offensive drive, hit the ball across the opponent’s back line, the defending team resumes the game with a free hit from their back line.

The left side of a horse.

NEAR SIDE S H OT: A ball hit

on the left side of the horse, players must hold the mallet in their right hand regardless of which side of the horse they hit from.

N E C K S H OT:

A ball is hit under the horse’s neck from either side.

O F F S I D E : The right side of the horse.

The rules state that you must play right handed.

OUT OF B O U N D S : When the ball is hit over the sidelines, it is out

L E AV E I T:

A player who feels he or she is in a better position to strike the ball will tell the teammate who is about to hit to “leave it” indicating that he should not touch the ball, but instead continue up the field for a pass.

of bounds. The clock continues to run. Teams line up at that spot and the ball is thrown in by the umpires. Deliberately hitting the ball out in the closing seconds of a match can be an excellent strategic play.

L I N E O F T H E B A L L : The imaginary line created by the ball in its sometimes capricious travels. The line of the ball may not be crossed or infringed except in special circumstances.

This is the pivotal concept on which many fouls and infractions are based - the interpretation of the line of the ball is usually what the umpires are discussing after they have blown a foul whistle.

PAT RO N : The individual who pays to put a team together, usually hiring professional players. Often the team will be named after the Patron’s company.

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P

R

PE N A LT I E S : Fouls result in penalties being awarded to the offended team. The degree of the penalty is determined by the seriousness of the infraction committed. Designated from 1 through 6, penalties usually involve a shot on goal from a predetermined spot with the clock stopped.

1: An automatic goal.

2. A free hit from 30 yards to an undefended goal.

3: A free hit from 40 yards to an undefended goal.

4: A free hit from 60 yards to a defended goal.

5: A free hit from the point of the infraction or midfield.

6: Safety. (see below)

P O N I E S : Although termed ‘ponies’ they are in fact horses ie, above the 14.2 hands height of a normally defined pony. Most are of the Argentinean Criollo breed or pure or cross thoroughbreds. Their main qualities are speed and stamina; the ability to accelerate, stop and turn quickly; and temperaments that are amenable to the rigors of the game. There is no height limit for the ponies, although most are between 15 and 15.3 hands. Players admit that the pony can account for as much as 80 percent of their overall performance.

POSITIONS: No. 1: The most offensive player. This is similar to the forward position in hockey or soccer. This player should be an accurate hitter, but need not necessarily hit a long ball.

R E F E R E E O R T H I R D M A N : The referee positioned off the field, and has the final word if the two umpires disagree.

R I D E O F F : Similar in concept to a body-check in hockey, a ride-off is used to interfere with an opposing player by moving him off the line of the ball or spoiling his shot. While dramatic, ride-offs do not endanger the horses because they must be made at similar speeds and safe angles.

S

RINGER:

An under-rated player, usually hired because he plays above his rating.

S A F E T Y: Penalty 6. When a defending player hits the ball across his own back line, the other team is awarded a free hit 60 yards from the back line with the ball placed at the same distance from the sideline as where it went out.

SENT OFF:

When an umpire sends a player off (signified by waving a red flag) the offending player may not return to the field, nor may he be replaced. His team must play the duration of the game short handed.

S PA R E : A fully tacked up pony held on the sidelines so that a player can make a fast change from his tired mount to a fresh one.

S P O N S O R : An individual or corporation of whom acts as a Tournament Sponsor. In consideration of a monetary contribution, the sponsor receives in return enormous recognition and exposure through the advertising of their corporation’s goods and services S T I C K C H I C K S : Decorative girls on the sidelines,

No. 2: Primarily an offensive player but also responsible for defence, interchanging with the number 3 player. The number 2 player is often the second-highest rated player on the team.

Q

No. 3: The quarterback and play maker. The “3” is usually the highest rated and most experienced player. This player must be able to hit a long ball accurately but be capable of close-in stick work and ball control.

No 4: The back. This is a defensive position. However, a good back must be able to not only hit a good backshot, but to turn the play from defensive to offensive in a flash The number 4 player is the last line of defense.

QU E A S Y:

The feeling a player has just before a big game or

a bad fall.

QU I RT:

A short, thin whip.

holding replacement mallets for players on the field.

STRING:

A term for a player’s stable of ponies in work.

S U D D E N D E AT H :

In the event of a tie score at the end of the last chukker, there will be a five minute intermission to allow the players to catch their breath and get a fresh mount before beginning a “sudden death” chukker in which the first team to score wins the match.

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T TAC K :

The equipment used on a pony.

TA I L S H OT:

A ball hit behind, or under the horse’s

rump.

TA K E H I M O U T:

An order (not an invitation) from a teammate to ride off an opponent and drive him away from the play.

U V W XY Z

T H ROW I N : The game begins with a throw-in where the umpire tosses the ball in between the lined up teams.

T I M E - O U T: An umpire calls time-out when a foul is committed, an accident occurs, or at his own discretion. A player may only call time-out if he has broken tack or is injured.

No time-out is allowed for changing horses or replacing a broken mallet, although a player may do so at any time.

UMPIRES:

These are the on-field officials. Mounted on ponies so that they may follow the play, the umpires are identified by their black and white vertically striped shirts. Most polo umpires are active players, and while officiating they are responsible for enforcing the rules and keeping proper control of players and teams.

U S PA : United States Polo Association. Visit the U.S. governing body of polo at http://www.uspolo.org.

V E T:

A veterinarian, or horse doctor.

V I C TO RY:

The result coveted by every player on the

field.

WRAPS:

The protective bandages the ponies wear on their

legs.

W H I T E S : Regulation white breeches or jeans are traditional for tournament play.

X - R AY:

A frequent procedure undergone by players and grooms alike. Also available to ponies.

YOUR LINE:

Words shouted by players to a teammate indicating that he, rather than an opponent, has the right of way to the ball.

Z E N : A relaxed, focused and centered state of being much sought after but rarely achieved by players.

ZO N E : The area around the field that is out of bounds for the spectators during play.

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Index of Advertisers: AgSouth Farm Credit..................................26 Aiken County Farm Supply.........................48 Aiken Horse Blanket...................................53 Aiken Regional Medical Centers...................6 Aiken Saddlery............................................73 Aiken Veterinary Clinic...............................48 Apizza di Napoli..........................................73 Banks Mill Feeds.........................................16 Carolina Moon Distillery............................53 Carriage House Inn.....................................27 Cooper Home & Stable...............................34 Cote Designs...............................................50 DI Polo Tour...............................................27 Donnie Shaffer Homes.............................. BC Elite Constructions, Inc..............................52 Elite Trailers................................................22 Equestrian Calendar Aiken..........................55 Enviroscape.................................................51 Equestrian Art Ltd......................................32 Equestrian Calendar Aiken.Com...............108 Equine Divine.......................................25, 73 Fencing Solutions........................................53 Hiler Hay..................................................108 Credits:

The Inn at Houndslake................................24 Mary Jane Howell....................................15w Innovative Solutions....................................54 Kenny Ray Personal Fitness.........................93 Land Rover....................................................4 Mark Lexton...............................................34 Masai..........................................................49 Meybohm Fine Properties...........................33 Morgan Stanley...........................................12 Nandina................................................... IBC New Bridge Farmettes.................................24 New Bridge Polo School..............................17 New Bridge Seasonal Housing.....................22 Alex Pacheco, 7 Chukker Polo.....................51 Prime Steakhouse........................................88 Jack Roth, Carolina Real Estate Co.... IFC, 46 Shelly Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions...42, 72 Southern Equine Service.............................43 3 Monkeys..................................................24 Warner Grading Company..........................54 The Willcox...................................................8 Wolf Construction......................................55 Women Beyond Cancer..............................97

Photography:

Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions Alex Pacheco, Alex Photography Katie Roth Jen Easters

Proofreading:

Mary Jane Howell, Marie McFadden

Design and Layout:

Innovative Solutions, Aiken, SC

“Los Modelos” Photography: Styling: Models:

Location:

Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions Jen Easters, Katie Roth Ruano, owned by Russ McCall Misty, owned by Willie Hartnett Farm Boy, owned by Rick Hartnett Eddie, owned by Scott Silver Emilia, owned by Marvin Slosman Billete, owned by Stan Sandefur Mini, owned by Dardo Iglesias New Bridge Polo & Country Club

“Clothes Horse” Photography: Styling: Models:

Jewelry: Clothing/Accessories:

Location:

Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions Chris Powers, Karin Jeffcoat, Cote Designs Katy Hartnett Megan Donahey Dr. Giannina Lamaletto-Ferrari Mark Lexton (www.marklexton.com) Aiken Dry Goods (www.aikendrygoods.com) Equine Divine (www.equinedivineonline.com) Folly (www.follyfinds.com) New Bridge Polo & Country Club

“The Quintessential Cottage” Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions Styling: Susan Victor and Michele Merritt, Nandina Home & Design

© Shelly Marshall Schmidt

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Ride-Off

“ Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.”

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~ Marilyn Monroe