THE PREMIER MAGAZINE
OF EQUESTRIAN LIFE
E Q U E S T R I A N Q U A R T E R LY
E Q U E S TR I A N WINTER 2013 | 2014
$6.95 | $7.95 CAN
Q U A R T E R L Y
EQ GOES WEST:
LYLE LOVETT AND THE WORLD
WI N T E R 2 0 1 3 | 2 01 4
AT H O M E W I T H B ADGLE Y M I SC H K A | T H E G OLD CUP PLUS: P EOPLE | STY LE | FASH I ON | TRAVEL | ARTS
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OF REINING HORSES
1
Ph. Tiziano Scaffai
W W W. F R A NCO TU CCI . CO M
Made in Italy
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE
Inside
WINTER | 2013 | 2014 ISSUE
F E AT U R E S
50
T H E EX C I T I N G WO R L D O F R EI N I N G I N T EX A S Reining has taken western disciplines by storm. Find out why so many equestrians and audiences have embraced the sport. Meet some of the industry’s legends in the thriving business of reining, training, breeding, and competing.
52
LY L E L OV ET T Meet the renaissance cowboy of Texas. When Lyle isn’t singing, song-writing, or on tour, he’s at home with his horses spinning and sliding.
68
T H E G O L D S TA N DA R D Show jumping’s elite shined as they competed on the country’s most challenging grand prix field at this year’s American Gold Cup. EQ had a chance to chat with one rising star, Nick Dello Joio.
72
M A R K B A D G L EY A N D N EW YO R K ’ S C O L D C OA S T C O U N T RY The couture-fashion designer and avid equestrian is enjoying the country life in his Locust Valley, N.Y., carriage house.
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Special Feature: Reining in Texas
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WH EN B O O MER S R ET I R E Learn why Aiken, S.C., offers so much appeal to a population of horse lovers looking at what’s next.
MILES AWAY FROM MAINSTREAM
Introducing
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Inside DEPART MEN T S
WINTER | 2013 | 2014 ISSUE
46
A RTS Wine and the label art of equine yield a palatable and sometimes charitable blend.
60
WE ST E RN FASH I O N Competitor Brianna Sloan provides an introduction to western reining show wear.
39
12 Editor’s Note 20 Science The benefits of compression garments. 26 Give it a Try Bernie Traurig trys the sport of reining.
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STYL E Horses shine and so will you in this bold and brilliant collection of exquisitely crafted equestrian jewelry. See how four ar tisan jewelers are wor th their weight in gold.
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FAS HION It seems the chic appeal of the sporting life is being embraced by the fashion savvy. The classic barn jacket is evolving from a practical wardrobe staple to a fashionable must have.
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ST Y LE Every dog is a “good dog”. Why not indulge your favorite tail-wagging companions with stylish and comfy dog-centric accessories?
34
FAVO RI T E S Meet a Vermont couple that fell headover-heels for enchanting, fluffy apacas because they are intelligent, easy to handle, and utterly irresistible.
40
T R AV EL Discover Dog Mountain. It is the unique vision and mission of the late ar tist Stephen Huneck, who created a place solely dedicated to the celebration and mourning of man’s best friend.
30 Giving Back Fulfilled dreams at Angel Heart Farm. 44 I Do Ashlee Bond and Sage Clarke wed. 86 Conserving the Land Three visionaries, lasting legacies. 96 Resources (Look for to find the products and services in this issue.)
ON T H E C OV E R: Lyle Lovett shot on location in Katy, Texas. Lyle is wearing Texas Traditions boots by Lee and Carrlyn Miller ; Lyle Lovett western shir t by Hamilton; K Bar J Leather chaps by Jack Gully; Tony Matthews cowboy hat. (Photo for EQ by George Kamper.)
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98 Barn Dogs Georgina Bloomberg’s charismatic pig.
CORRECTION: In the previous issue of EQ, we credited a photo of Nic Roldan to Jason Mayers. The photo was actually taken by Juan Lamarca.
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EQ phototography director George Kamper, Lyle Lovett, and Stephanie Peters in Katy, Texas.
12 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
here’s much to be said for looking forward and even greater rewards for living in the moment. But as I write this—on the cusp of the new year—I think it’s worth glancing back at our recent travels that are featured in this issue and revisiting some of the places and people that have graced the pages of EQ in 2013. We are barely back from our trip to Texas and still reveling in the experience. (My personal initiation to Texas was an unpleasant incident involving fire ants, but that’s a story probably best left untold.) We headed west to learn as much as we could about the sport of reining. Basically, we arrived in Texas as novices, and left, still novices, but armed with a new-found appreciation for the sport. We met the McQuays and McCutcheons— two families revered in the world of reining. We sat with them during competitions and barraged them with questions. We talked to trainers, breeders, and competitors. It was the ultimate crash course, and in short order we were rattling off reining terms such as spinning and slidingstops—leaving our less-informed personas in a cloud of dust. The reining community is wildly proud of their horses and their sport and thrilled with the sport’s rapid growth. More and more hunter jumpers are giving it a try. Read about equestrian champion Bernie Traurig’s reining lesson with Tom McCutcheon on page 26. We spent two days with native Texan Lyle Lovett. (See page 52). We knew him as a brilliant musician but discovered he is also a multidimensional cowboy. Texans are generous of heart and spirit. They are cool under pressure and don’t sweat the heat. Although we tried to exude that same lone-star attitude during days of extremely high temperatures, we failed miserably. Lyrics of a Lyle Lovett song came to mind: “You’re not from Texas, but Texas wants you anyway.” We experienced the same gracious Texas hospitality and warm reception outside of the equestrian arena. Read about some of our favorite finds in our Texas Diary on page 66. Earlier in the fall, the EQ team attended the American Gold Cup in North Salem, N.Y. The event is truly America’s gold standard of
grand-prix jumping. Competitors and spectators called it the epitome of champion show jumping and praised its panache and understated glamour. Rising star Nick Dello Joio sat down for a chat with EQ. (See page 71). Also please enjoy our impromptu summer visit with fashion designer Mark Badgley in Locust Valley, N.Y. We met Mark at Hunter’s Moon Farm, his training barn, and completed our conversation with him at the charming and beautifully-designed carriage house he shares with partner James Mischka. A L OOK B AC K A ND A H EA D
Gazing back at four seasons of issues does render a sense of accomplishment. We’ve featured polo, reining, college riding, and international show jumping. We’ve visited Arabian, Quarter Horse, and premier hunter jumper barns, and touched on the history of American Saddlebreds. We’ve presented the work of some of the country’s most innovative architects and toured the homes and barns of champion equestrians, writers, musicians, artists, and so much more. We hope you enjoyed it. There are exciting things planned for the new year. Pack your bags because we will be featuring exciting luxury destinations for equestrians. At this moment I am days away from flying to Qatar with EQ’s new friend Carson Kressley. You’ll read about our trip and the Qatari equestrian community in the next issue of EQ. Also on the agenda are visits to France, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Arizona, California, Kentucky, and Florida. By the way, we’re soon launching EQ’s redesigned website and the EQ Inner Circle, an e-magazine that will come out between our quarterly print issues. They will both be loaded with interesting content. Be sure to visit www. equestrianquarterly.com/contact and send us your email address for a complimentary Inner Circle subscription. Wishing you all the best for the new year.
EQUESTRIAN
Q U A R T E R L Y
®
WINTER 2013 | 2014 VOLUME 2 NUMBER 4 EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters DEPUTY EDITOR Jill B. Medinger EDITORS AT LARGE Georgina Bloomberg and Ann Leary DESIGN MANAGER Mar y A. Stroup PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR George Kamper EDITORIAL MANAGER Rose DeNeve ASSISTANT EDITOR Abigail Googel EQ SPECIAL EVENTS Jennifer Pearman Lammer CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Molly Knott, Katie Murphy, Joan Nor ton VMD, Christopher Rodstrom, Brianna Sloan, Ruth Kennedy Sudduth, Bernie Traurig, Alex Tyr teos, Carrie Wir th INTERNS Kady Hobbins, Robyn Willey EQUESTRIANQUARTERLY.COM TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Matt Tarsi PUBLISHER C. W. Medinger ADVERTISING SALES VICE PRESIDENT, SALES: Linda Andersen, 603-718-1478, C:978-807-7640, andersen@equestrianquar terly.com EASTERN REGION, Melissa Rettig, 703-201-0122, rettig@equestrianquar terly.com SOUTHEASTERN REGION, Christian Palmer, 612-618-8216, palmer@equestrianquar terly.com WESTERN REGION, Dick Holcomb, 770-740-7120, dickholc@bellsouth.net CALIFORNIA, Rodney Brooks, 415-385-5191, brooks@equestrianquar terly.com CONSULTANT George Fuller PRESS INQUIRIES Carrie Wir th, 561-753-3389 NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Teri Combs, RCS Magazines, Richard Trummer, Cur tis Circulation Co. PRINT & DISTRIBUTION Rena Rully, Brown Printing, New York, NY EQ ADVISORY BOARD COLLEGE RIDING Bob Cacchione, Founder IHSA WELLINGTON DRESSAGE Carol Cohen, Wellington, FL THERAPEUTIC RIDING Patty Coyle, PATH, Pegasus, Brewster, NY FUTURE CONCEPTS J. Stanley Edwards DRESSAGE Katja Eilders, FEI Master German Classical Dressage, CT POLO Melissa Ganzi, Wellington, FL, Deborah Deutsch, Beverly Hills, CA OLYMPIC SILVER MEDALIST/SHOW JUMPING Peter Leone, Lionshare Farm, Greenwich, CT HUNTER/JUMPER TRAINER AND REINING LEGENDS Colleen and Tim McQuay, Tioga, TX EQUESTRIAN REAL ESTATE Katie Murphy, Luxequestrian.com ARABIAN HORSES Mindy Peters, Los Alamos, Ca HUNTER/JUMPER WEST Chris Pratt, Los Angeles, CA EQUESTRIAN FASHION Renee Spurge, LA Saddler y, Los Angeles, CA COMBINED DRIVING LEGEND Chester Weber, Ocala, FL EQUESTRIAN QUARTERLY is published four times yearly and is distributed at selected equestrian locations, newsstands and available for home deliver y for $18.95/$27.95 Canada. Subscribe: equestrianquar terly.com/subscribe or mail EQ, Box One, Brownsville, VT 05037. Subscription management and address changes: www.equestrianquar terly.com/subscription Editorial inquiries and letters to the editor: info@equestrianquar terly.com WYNNWOOD MEDIA LLC 41 East 11th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10003 © 2013 All rights reser ved, Wynnwood Media, LLC . No por tion may be reproduced in print or online without written permission.
GET EQ DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR MAILBOX Scan to SUBSCRIBE or visit equestrianquarterly.com/subscribe
14 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
CURTIS CIRCULATION COMPANY
WYNNWOOD MEDIA LLC
Style Dare to dazzle in this exquisitely crafted EQUESTRIAN JEWELRY.
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ince 1977 Venetian jewelry designer, ROBERTO COIN, has devoted his life to a passion for innovative design. Finding inspiration in the most unlikely of places, he is truly an artisan at work. Experimenting with light, texture, color, and pattern, Coin’s style is ever evolving. His diverse collection, designed to fit every woman, is defined by a common thread—the thoughtful balance of elegance and creativity. A tradition since 1996, The signature ruby found in all Roberto Coin jewelry designs has always been a special wish from Roberto to his clients for a life of love, health, and good fortune.
Tiny Treasures Diamond Baby Horseshoe Necklace 18k white gold. Suggested retail $980. Roberto Coin
4
Cattle Drive Bracelet Solid 18k gold, limited edition. $28,000. Lesley Rand Bennett
Jewelry designers for horse lovers.
O
ld world craftsmanship and skill is evident in LESLEY RAND BENNETT’S work. Her trained eye enables her to select only the finest gemstones and materials, assuring each piece to be of the highest quality. Her love of horses and feel for their form and spirit is evident in her highly acclaimed equestrian designs. Each limited edition piece in her 18k gold collection is skillfully handcrafted in her studio in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Two-in-hand slide in 18k gold. Combined weight of 2.45ct full-cut diamonds. (Diamond chain price on request.) Slide $8,900. Lesley Rand Bennett
Cheval Animalier Horse Cuff 18k rose and white gold with diamonds. Suggested retail $29,400. Rober to Coin
16 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
Wild Horses Bracelet Solid 18k gold, limited edition. $20,000. Lesley Rand Bennett
Reiner Buckle 14k gold and sterling silver with black diamonds. $3,800. Lesley Rand Bennett
PAGE 96.
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Western Saddle Pendant 14k yellow gold, hand engraved and set with 1/2 ct total weight of white diamonds. The seat is set with black diamonds. $6,250. Jack Van Dell
J
ACK VAN DELL is a secondgeneration jeweler, designing, and specializing in fine, custom-made pieces crafted from platinum, gold, silver, and other precious metals and gems. Jack, an aspiring horseman, has also produced an exquisite collection of equestrian jewelry. His design philosophy has always been to produce pieces that can be worn daily, not just for special occasions. Based in Palm Beach and Wellington, Fla., Van Dells’ custom designs are worn by clients around the globe.
Western Boot Pendant 14k yellow gold and diamonds, rubies, and sapphires on front. Back is hand engraved with a floral design. $4,750. Jack Van Dell
4 Jewelry designers for horse lovers.
Large Halter Pendant 14k yellow gold set with 1/2 ct total weight of white diamonds. $2,450. Jack Van Dell Phantom Ring 18k Yellow Gold $3,800. Phantom Clique Ring 18k Yellow Gold and Diamonds $10,500. Hoorsenbuhs
Classic Tri Link Bangles in 18k Gold or Sterling Silver and Diamonds Suggested retail starting at $5,000. Hoorsenbuhs
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OORSENBUHS, the jeweler with its signature tri-link mark, has garnered tremendous recognition in a relatively short amount of time. Founded in 2005 by designer Robert Keith and business partner Kether Parker, the brand, known for its emphasis on sophisticated, modern design has become a favorite of celebrities. Their line is available in gold, platinum, silver, and other metals, and their diamonds are all responsibly sourced. Although the name Hoorsenbuhs has a Dutch lineage, the jewelry is designed and produced in Santa Monica, Calif.
Classic Tri-Link Diamond Studs Suggested retail starting at $3,500. Hoorsenbuhs
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PAGE 96.
Science
COMPRESSION GARMENTS
are good for human athletes. And horses too.
C
ompression garments have been popular with elite human athletes for years, and like many other sports technologies that have come before, it did not take too long before these ideas were applied to the equine athlete. Hidez, an Australian company, has developed a full-body compression suit for horses. In human research trials, compression garments have been shown to enhance recovery between sets of intense sprinting, reduce overall perceived muscle soreness after exercise, and improve muscle swelling and fatigue after heavy resistance training. Compressive garments have also long been used to improve circulation and prevent deep vein thrombosis in people during long distance air travel. The Hidez Travel & Recovery Suits are made of a Spandex/Polyester blend of moisturewicking fabric with SPF 50 UV protection and anti-bacterial and stain resistant properties. Graduated compressive forces, tighter on the lower limbs with moderate pressure towards the body, is intended to increase blood return to the heart and improve the removal of lactic acid when worn for one to four hours after exercise. When used for long distance travel the Hidez suit decreases muscle vibrations that can lead to micro-tears in the musculature that may be associated with muscle soreness. The company also claims that travel-associated weight loss is also tempered by the use of the suit. Though there have not yet been any organized clinical trials of the suits showing improved recovery or response to travel,
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testimonials from trainers, riders, and veterinarians around the world—from disciplines as varied as show jumping, endurance riding, and polo—are singing its praises. The suits’ most famous equine advocate, Black Caviar, the Australian Thoroughbred mare who won an unprecedented 25 of 25 races, demonstrated the suit’s travel claims. In a journey from Melbourne to London that involved three separate flights, the mare had minimal changes in the muscle enzymes creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) that are normally elevated after travel, indicating muscle damage. Additionally, the weight loss recorded during this excursion was less than 25 percent of what is normally seen in this type of travel. While the suits have several uses, they are not intended for use during exercise, turnout, or overnights. You can, however, have them customized to your barn colors and even place words or logos in various places over the suit. So, in addition to improving recovery after competition and lessening the stress of travel, your horse can make a fashion statement as he steps off the trailer at your next show!
EQ SCIENCE IS SPONSORED BY
PAGE 96
Dr. Joan Norton VMD DACVIM founded Norton Veterinary Consulting and Education Resources to promote equine veterinary education to horse owners, trainers, and veterinarians. She is the author of Equine First Aid Handbook, a pocket-sized guide containing must-have information on how to recognize and handle common equine emergencies. One of the country’s most popular and engaging speakers on veterinary topics, Dr. Nor ton also offers a series of online education courses through her website: nortonveterinaryconsulting.com.
Riding Surfaces for Equestrian Athletes
www.equestriansurfaces.com | 888.461.7788 Follow our story on Facebook.
Photog Pho togrpa rpahy hy by AK DRA DRAGOO GOO
“Great footing arises from great passion.”
Fashion Fashionable denizens of the stable have a special challenge in winter: to stay clean, warm, and dry in style. A beautiful BARN JACKET is worth its weight in gold, and that is when we turn to functional fabrics— quilted nylon, corduroy, and waxed cotton—in styles suitable for the saddle and beyond. BY MOLLY KNOTT
T
o the uninitiated, quilted nylon, corduroy, and waxed cotton may not sound like luxury fabrics, but as equestrians we know these traditional workhorse staples of winter outerwear have an allure all their own. Recently, it seems, our secret is getting out. In recent years, the chic appeal of the sporting life has become a favorite look amongst fashion trendsetters. A certain stylish princess is often photographed strolling in her Barbour jacket, and Kate Moss, ever the iconoclast, never does the Glastonbury rock festival without her Hunter boots. A beautiful barn jacket has two key components: functional textiles and a flattering fit that is appropriate for the stable. Quilted nylon provides highly wearable insulation with its
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The Moredalecheck Quilted Jacket, from British favorite Joules, is a classic quilted hacking jacket in a dashing country plaid.
smooth face and lightweight loft, while waxed cotton, originally developed for the Scottish sailing industry, is a traditional choice when warmth and waterproofing are required. Touches of corduroy and leather add softness and durability to the collar or maybe an elbow patch. In terms of fit, silhouettes have become more tapered, creating both a fashionable appearance to the barn jacket as well as better range of motion while working or riding. Belted looks are in abundance this year, and I also favor back venting, which flatters and accommodates the hips in (and out of) the saddle. A most traditional choice is the iconic Barbour Liddesdale jacket, made modern with a feminine floral-print lining—a perfect choice for trail or town. The Dunburry, from the Barbour Gold Label collection, steps Continued on page 24
Continued from page 22
The Belstaff Trialmaster in the olive-toned military color is an elegant edition of Belstaff’s original 1948 garment.
The iconic Barbour Liddesdale jacket, made modern with a feminine floral-print lining.
up the fashion factor with a stand-up collar, loads of leather trim, and an even slimmer fit. My “it jacket” choice of the season is the Belstaff Trialmaster in the olive-toned military color. This elegant edition of Belstaff’s original 1948 garment is constructed of six-ounce hand-waxed cotton with a plush quilted check lining and washed velvet neck and cuffs. It’s a hard working piece, paired with of-themoment styling in the form of triple-snap cuffs and a smartly belted waist. Last spring, I worked with the boutique equestrian label O’Shaughnessey Apparel on a two-piece capsule collection, including our collaborative take on the modern equestrian’s barn jacket. Constructed of Italian quilted nylon, the Flynn jacket features a fitted sil-
The Dunburry, from the Barbour Gold Label collection, steps up the fashion factor with a stand-up collar and loads of leather trim.
Molly Knott is the founder and editor of the lifestyle blog, Dappled Grey, a curated guide to equestrian style and culture. When not working on the blog, she can be found doting on her warmblood, Fitch, and maintaining her small farm in the Pacific Nor thwest.
houette with vented back, off-center antique brass 2-way zip, and button closure collar. It’s available in Champagne and a striking Persimmon for the equestrian who, like me, can’t get enough of the color orange. Another favorite is the Moredalecheck Quilted Jacket from British favorite Joules, a classic quilted hacking jacket in a dashing country plaid with corduroy pocket flaps and elbow patches. Among these choices, it’s easy to see that the classic barn jacket is rapidly evolving from practical wardrobe staple to a stylish musthave. So pull out that vintage Barbour or pick up a new barn jacket in a fresh color—and remember that, as equestrians, we are always the champions of function plus fashion. PAGE 96
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Give it aTry After you meet TOM McCUTCHEON and learn about reining in this issue of EQ, watch him give BERNIE TRAURIG a lesson. WITH JILL MEDINGER
Bernie Traurig is perhaps the only athlete to have represented the United States Equestrian Team and reached the top of the sport in three of the international equestrian olympic disciplines: show jumping, dressage, and eventing. He was inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame and received the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) President’s Distinguished Service Award. He competed in eight world cup finals and is the winner of over 60 show jumping grand prix events and 15 grand prix and grand prix special classes in dressage. Currently, Traurig travels as a trainer and is the founder of equestriancoach.com, the leading online equestrian training resource (See EQ, Summer 2013).
I
had ridden in a western saddle before on trail rides, but I had never ridden a reining horse. We were filming a reining lesson for equestriancoach.com with champion reiners Tim McQuay and Tom McCutcheon, and I decided to take advantage of the moment and try it myself. Tom put me on a really, really good horse, and that makes all the difference in the world. I didn’t have a difficult time because I was on a machine that was so well trained that he made me look good. Probably as in all disciplines, training the horse is the real story. Training requires skill and expertise—maybe more than riding. Sitting on that horse reminded me of what originally got me interested in dressage. I was visiting dressage legend, Johann Hinnemann, 26 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
Equestriancoach.com has graciously offered this 18-minute video for free to EQ readers. Watch Tom McCutcheon giving Bernie a reining lesson here: http://tinyurl.com/BernieEQ
in Germany, and he asked me if I’d like to ride one of his best horses. Of course I said yes, and he put me on a wonderful horse, one of the best in the world. The next thing I know, I’m experiencing dressage and doing all sorts of things that I had never done in my life. The fact that I was sitting on such a quality animal that knew exactly what to do was just what happened with Tom. That day, I tried the circles, gallops, transitions, spins, stops, and backing. Reining horses are trained so that when you put your legs forward, they back up. I’ve never done that on a hunter! The same with the stops: you put
your lower leg forward, and they stop without pressure on their mouths. A little more similar to our sport was the spin and the reaction to rein aids. These horses are ultra-sensitive to a touch of the neck rein in one direction or the other. It seems like you just think about moving your hands and the horse responds. Maybe not quite to that level of sensitivity, but I’d love hunters to be more sensitive to aids. The sport of reining generates an amazing amount of enthusiasm from the spectators and riders. They cheer and whistle, and get excited about a flying change! Could you see that in hunters? It’s a sport a lot of people can do. And it’s more affordable than hunter jumpers. The entry level to get into reining with a good horse is more affordable than an entry horse required for jumpers. There is a lot we can learn from reining. Sliding stops don’t pertain to hunter jumpers, but we sure do want them to slow down quickly and make fast turns. There’s a top Canadian Olympian jumper named Hugh Graham. Hugh began riding at age 12 when, with no previous experience, he broke and trained his family’s pony, Thunder. He was a champion calf-roper throughout high school before he switched to jumpers. Hugh can do lightning fast turns on a jumper course. Because of his western background, he can spin the horse on the haunch and change direction probably faster than anyone I’ve ever seen. (You can watch him here: equestriancoach.com/content/ lightening-fast-jump-turns). I had great fun reining. You should try it.
Reining.
Straining.
Competition can take a toll on a horse’s joints.
Ask your equine veterinarian about the benefits of Legend® (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution—the only FDA-approved I.V. joint therapy for equine non-infectious synovitis. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this product to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. WARNINGS: For use in horses only. Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
E121243
Style Tails will wag when your furry friends settle into these stylish CANINE ACCESSORIES. F I L LMORE DOG COLLAR A N D LEAD No dog should be without this chic black and white key design collar and lead from Blueblood. With polished, rust-resistant nickel hardware and sturdy nylon construction, it is guaranteed to put your dog’s safety first. Includes a removable snap for dog tags. Lead is 5’ long.
6 CA N VA S D O G CARRIER For the little dog or cat on the go, Mungo & Maud’s canvas dog carrier has it all: lightweight, chic, and made from a luxe canvas fabric. Chocolate brown with navy accents, the canvas carrier comes outfitted with a single zip closure, one side open pocket, and a short secure leash with clip attached to the interior.
Ways to indulge your four-legged friends.
TH E B A MB Ú DAY B ED This daybed is a transitional and luxurious design, fit for the little kings and queens of the world! It is a true piece of furniture and will add warmth to the finest home interiors. By Pet Lounge Studios.
B L EECKER L EATH ER COL L AR I N FAW N Year after year, this classic Coach design continues to be top dog. Its glove-tanned leather is field-tested for strength and durability—and wears handsomely over time. This season, it comes with an unexpected dash of color and antiqued brass hardware.
TH E S T R AY DOG DINER This handsome feeder is designed and made by Doca Pet in Chicago, Ill., and available in a variety of colors and sizes. Keep any dog comfortable and clean without unsightly dishes on the floor.
BAMBÚ PET HAMMOCK II Inspiration for the Bambú Pet Hammock II was drawn directly from the same philosophy used by some of the most recognized Scandinavian furniture designers, which was to showcase the natural beauty of the materials used with simplicity. By Pet Lounge Studios.
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PAGE 96
Buena Vista Farms... where stars are born
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Giving Back
S
Tracy Kujawa, founder and director of ANGEL HEART is no stranger to dreaming.
ince 2001, the non-profit equine-assisted therapy program, Angel Heart Farm (AHF), has helped children and families that are facing chronic or life-threatening illnesses. Thirteen years ago, Tracy Kujawa was battling cancer for the second time. “The words ‘sick and tired’ came to be how I felt most of the time,” she explains. She was working as a freelance wardrobe stylist in Nashville, Tenn., at the time, and volunteering at a therapeutic riding program. The only time she felt safe and comfortable was when she was riding her Arabian mare, Khuryia.
FARM
in Lexington, Ky.,
drive of Lexington, AHF continues to serve children from Vanderbilt and Saint Jude’s in Tennessee. Angel Heart’s goal is to improve the lives of children with equine assisted therapy to complement their medical treatment. Dr. Richard Ho, MD, MSCI Professor of Pediatrics Hematology/Oncology at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and medical advisor for AHF states, “Angel Heart Farm has created a safe, caring environment where children can experience the warmth and peace of bonding with horses, which promotes a positive effect in the healing process.” GOAL S A ND DREA MS
B E G A N W I T H A DREAM
One night, after a late ride, Kujawa came home, fell onto her bed with her boots on, and had a dream about teaching bald-headed children to ride horses. “My dream was so vivid and real, it literally got me out of bed and onto the computer to see if there were any programs for children facing the same illness I was battling,” she said. “Much to my surprise, nothing! With hundreds of programs for children with special needs, at-risk children, and a host of other amazing equine therapy programs –why not kids with cancer? So, I created one!” With no idea of how to start a non-profit, she started by asking Vanderbilt Children’s and Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital if there would be any interest. When they reacted with enthusiasm, she began working on building the organization from the ground up. Kujawa was able to begin by using her own horse in the program. “My mare, Khuryia was a dream come true for me from the day she was born. Everyone told me there was something very special about her; little did I know she would catapult this dream called Angel Heart Farm,” she says. To date, Angel Heart Farm has served over 175 families from Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio, Kentucky, and Georgia. In 2010, AHF moved from Tennessee to Lexington, Ky., to serve a greater population of children. With three major children’s hospitals within an hour’s
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The stories are both inspiring and heartbreaking. Amber, a brain cancer patient, had always dreamed of riding a white horse. She came to the farm wearing her overalls and a jacket with butterflies on it, and rode Rolo Basko, a multinational champion white Arabian. Though she was only able to visit the farm a handful of times before she ultimately succumbed to her cancer, she was able to fulfill her dream. To Kujawa, the children are not numbers or patients but individuals with goals and dreams that she and her program helps to accomplish. Today, Angel Heart Farm is working on a capital campaign to purchase a farm as a permanent home for the program, and for the “Angel Crew” of horses and ponies that make the program possible, says Kujawa, “This will enable us to grow the foundation, serve more families in need, and create a place of solace and serenity for families facing the toughest battle of their lives.” PAGE 96
1. Top to bottom: Gavin from Nashville, Tenn., gives his best cowboy stare. He is beating his Leukemia, thanks to the help of his pony, Rocky. 2. Landon from Lexington, Ky., hangs out with his buddy, Cisco Pete in his favorite hat and boots. 3. Six year old Ainsley from Clarksville, Tenn., proudly shows off her first blue ribbon. 4. Kainen from Tennessee lost his battle to cancer but spent many happy hours in the saddle.
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Sir Alfred James Munnings Irish Grey Mare
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Favorites They are gentle, neat, fluffy, and friendly–and provide great sweaters too. What could be better than ALPACAS?
AS TOLD TO BETSY STEIN
After years of living and working in New York, followed by years of owning a successful inn in Vermont, Bill and Linda Ley were looking for a new, fulfilling, and fun next step. They chose Alpacas. W H Y A L PAC AS?
W
e both decided it was time to leave the rat race and take on a new challenge in a more rural setting. Both of us came from a hospitality and marketing background, so the decision to go inn-hunting in upper New England seemed like a natural move. After a full year of looking for the perfect inn in the perfect country village, in 1987 we found just the right place and moved to
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At Parris Hill, their Vermont farm, BILL AND LINDA LEY breed show alpacas and sell the fiber, which is as soft as cashmere and warmer and stronger than wool.
the idyllic town of Dorset, Vt. However, after running the inn for 13 years 24/7/365, we decided that we wanted to radically change our lifestyle and do something that would allow us to work on our own schedule and at our own pace. When we had our inn, we were fortunate to meet a number of incredible people from very diverse fields and parts of the country. One couple introduced us to alpacas. After a few visits to their farm and falling head-over-heels in love with these enchanting creatures, we made the decision to invest in the purchase of our first alpaca. As soon as our Alpaca was old enough, we had her bred, Continued on page 36
and 11-plus months later, we had our first cria (baby) and our herd doubled in size. Very soon after that, a couple from California made an offer on our inn, and we took that as a sign that it was time to leave innkeeping and buy a farm. W H O R A I S E S ALPACAS?
Alpaca breeders come from many walks of life. For some, alpacas are a source of income, for others a source of pleasure. Young couples with children might own three or four alpacas and enjoy caring for them. Retired couples are often owners. The family whose members include a hand-spinner might own two or three animals for fiber production. Alpacas are fiber-producing members of the camel family, raised exclusively for their soft and luxurious wool. Their fleeces are sheared once a year, or sometimes every two years in cooler climates. Each shearing produces roughly five to ten pounds of cashmere-like fiber per animal, per year. W H AT M A K E S ALPACAS SUCH WO N D E R F U L ANIMALS TO RAISE?
Alpacas are safe; they don’t bite or butt. Even if they did, without incisors, horns, hoofs or claws, little harm can be done. They are small and easy to handle. They’re intelligent, which makes them pleasant to be around and easy to train. The alpaca’s feet are padded, which keeps even the most delicate terrain undamaged. A herd of alpacas consolidates its feces in one or two spots in the pasture, thereby controlling the spread of parasites and making it easy to
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collect and compost for fertilizer. And best of all, an alpaca produces enough fleece each year to create several soft, warm sweaters for its owner’s comfort. A RE TH ERE C O MP ETI TI VE SH OW S?
Regional shows are usually two to three days in length and will have anywhere from 100 to 800 entries. There is also a three-to-four-day national show with 800 to 1,200 entries. There are many different competitive classes, distinguished by the age, color, and sex of the entry. There are “full fleece” classes, which judge the entry on conformation and the quality of the fleece; there are “shorn” classes, which judge the alpaca solely on its conformation; there are “fleece” classes which judge fleece off the animal; and there are “composite” classes, which judge the “shorn” animal and its already shorn fleece with a composite score. WHAT DO A L PAC A S C O S T?
Quality breeding-age females range between $5,000 and $20,000. Champions are selling for closer to $30-40,000. Young, unproven, highquality stud prospects routinely sell for prices ranging from $2,500 to $15,000. Learn much more about Alpacas at EQmag.us/alpacas. PAGE 96.
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Amy Carr 561.662.0728
Carol Sollak 561.818.9476
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Heather Dengler 561.772.6702
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Jordan Hayman 561.315.3889
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Michelle Gracida 561.722.9001
Monika Sundstrom 561.309.9271
Renee Hasak 561.308.5107
Roxanne Henry 561.818.0897
Sally Colbert 203.984.2441
Visse Wedell 203.856.7882
Wellington • Phone +1-561-791-2220 • Fax +1-561-791-2221 www.wellington.evusa.com • Real Estate Agency wellington@evusa.com
The finest show facility for sale in Wellington.
Diamante Farms • Indian Mound: Proper ty features a gated entr ance, gr and dr iveway with circular dr ive and fountain. The barn has 21 stalls, 1 covered ring and 1 exposed ring, both with mirrors and pavilions. Multiple tack, laundry, feed rooms and wash stalls. Plenty of room for trailer and RV parking on the west side of the property. 10 acres located minutes from the horse show grounds. Offered at $6,500,000 Firm
Jordan Hayman • Phone +1-561-315-3889 • Fax +1-561-791-2221 www.jordanhayman.evusa.com • Wellington, Florida Jordan.Hayman@evusa.com
Travel
An uphill climb for DOG
MOU NTAIN .
I
f in fact love conquers all, then the weight of sadness currently looming over Dog Mountain has an excellent chance of lifting, in spite of the challenges of heartbreak and loss. Dog Mountain, occupying 150 acres of hilly terrain just three miles from the town of St. Johnsbury, Vt., is a magical and spiritual place dedicated to honoring and mourning man’s best friend. Central to this mission is the Dog Chapel that resembles a 19th-century New England church— until you notice the steeple is topped with a winged Labrador. The chapel, completed in 2000, is the only one of its kind in the world and was conceived and built by the late artist and dog lover, Stephen Huneck. The walls of the chapel are adorned with layers upon layers of notes, photographs, and other mementos of departed 40 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
Top: The chapel and several of Huneck’s sculptures. Huneck’s playful images are a popular theme on cards, lithographs, and carpets.
pets. “We never take anything down,” said general manager Jill Brown. “Every single note is filled with life. People are in awe of it.” “Some people can’t make it actually into the chapel,” explained Brown. “It’s just so emotional.” But even with the notes and the sadness the chapel can be an elevating experience. “Stephen created this place to come and grieve, but also to remember the joy that a dog or cat or a horse can bring,” said Brown. “The chapel is open to all animals.” A sign, just outside the chapel proclaims: “Welcome: all creeds, all breeds, no dogmas allowed.” But joy on Dog Mountain is harder to find these days, especially for Jill Brown and creative director Amanda Continued on page 42
Grand Prix Village: The most extr aor dinar y price for new construction in Grand Prix Village on 5.62 acres. Beautiful 20 stall barn with 4 wash/groom stalls and owner's lounge, grooms and managers quarters. Extra large ring, derby field and 4 paddocks. Offered at $12,950,000
Grand Prix Village: The most pr estigious horse farm. 20 stall barn, manager’s apartment and groom’s apartment. Owner’s apartment has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Offered at $26,900,000
Grand Prix Village: Second phase of Gr and Pr ix Village, the most prestigious and desirable subdivision of world class barns in Wellington. City water, sewer and electric is complete and has been brought to each property line. Offered at $850,000 per acre
Palm Beach Polo • Exclusive Bridle Path: The best value of new construction home with stunning main level master suite. Dramatic limestone staircase, elevator, custom designed beam ceilings and old world flooring throughout the home. Located in the gates within the gates. Offered at $5,950,000
Mallet Hill: Gr eat value 4.15 acr es in exclusive manned gated community touching the horse show. 4 Br 4.5 Ba home with room for a 16 stall barn, ring, guest house and grooms quarters. Offered at $8,000,000
Palm Beach Polo • Exclusive Bridle Path: Fr ench inspired chateau features sculptured gardens, an antique fireplace and a 14th century fountain. 6 Br, 8.5 Ba home has a courtyard overlooking gardens and pool. This one of a kind home is located in the gates within the gates. Offered at $11,000,000
Palm Beach Polo • Mizner Estates: This home is ready to move in. Exquisite 4 bedroom 4 bathroom home on cul de sac has been updated above and beyond. Covered patio with heated pool and spa on the water. Offered at $2,150,000
Palm Beach Polo • Cypress Island: Best value in Cypress Island. One of the last large estate lots backing up to water and golf course. Offered at $725,000
Palm Beach Polo • Islebrook: Incr edibly priced courtyard home on 0.5 acre lot. 4 bedroom 4.5 bathroom including guest house. Marble floors in all living areas. Very spacious. Offered at $1,300,000
Carol Sollak • Phone +1-561-818-9476 • Fax +1-561-791-2221 www.carolsollak.evusa.com • Wellington, Florida Carol.Sollak@evusa.com
McDermott. In early 2010, Stephen Huneck, the compassionate, dogloving man with extraordinary talents, took his own life. His wife, Gwen Huneck, was determined to continue with Stephen’s mission of Dog Mountain. She worked tirelessly to maintain the property and to promote gallery sales of Stephen’s prints, sculpture, and furniture that heavily supported operational costs. After three years of struggle, Gwen Huneck also committed suicide. Brown conveyed how hard it was for Gwen. “She was grieving the loss of her husband and the man who was Dog Mountain, while trying to move forward with the business. There were so many people expressing sympathies along with people’s loss of animals that it just got to be too much. Gwen absorbed a lot and found it hard to release the sadness,” commented Brown. “I get verbal condolences, especially since Gwen passed away,” said Jill. “It’s been the toughest time in my life. I’ve lost my mentors. Amanda and I considered Stephen and Gwen our Dog Mountain parents. We weren’t related, just privileged to have known both of them.” Now the responsibility is with Jill and Amanda to keep Dog Mountain in business. The motivation is not only for Stephen and Gwen, but also for the Dog Mountain commu-
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Above: The Dog Chapel and Stephen Huneck Gallery at Dog Mountain; inside the chapel, the walls are papered with messages of love for departed pets; some of Huneck’s original carvings are still available for purchase.
nity—the people who rely on this place to be here. Besides visitors, the property gets used regularly by the residents of St Johnsbury. Apartment dogs essentially use it as their backyard. “The people who come here add a positive impact on the mountain. It changes the energy, and it’s great to see the joy and love going on between the dogs and their owners,” said Brown. Gwen’s brother, John Ide, is overseeing the estate and has every intention of honoring Stephen and Gwen’s vision and keeping Dog Mountain fully operational. In a recent article in the Burlington, Vt. weekly newspaper, Seven Days, Ide was quoted as saying, “I would like Dog Mountain to survive and continue to be sustainable. What form that takes has yet to be determined.” “Having John’s support means everything to us,“ Jill commented. “We are monitoring the business and foot traffic patterns through the gallery. We are revamping the web site that will launch on “Black Lab Friday” and will hopefully gain momentum with our e-commerce, helping to offset the slower winter months.” More fund-raising events are also being planned. Brown said, “Amanda and I want everyone to know how much we appreciate people’s support, even if just visiting the website. Come and see us and call anytime!” PAGE 96.
Palm Beach Polo • Kensington: Magnificent 11,000 squar e foot estate home in Palm Beach Polo. This home has every upgrade and has been completely renovated. Great master suite on ground floor, 5 guest bedrooms, 4 located on the second floor and 7 full bathrooms. The property has a gorgeous golf course view and pool area great for entertaining. Available for seasonal rent. Offered at $4,750,000
Palm Beach Polo • Bridle Path: Gr eat oppor tunity to own the nicest home on the nicest lot left in Palm Beach Polo. The impressive 14,000 square foot structure was custom designed specifically to take advantage of the breathtaking water vistas that surround this 0.7 acre property. The architecture is classic Palm Beach style, and it is approached via a walk-through gatehouse and a lush interior garden courtyard with flanking limestone fountains. The home will have 5 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms and 4 half bathrooms. Offered at $10,000,000
Palm Beach Polo • Bent Cypress: Unbelievable home with plenty of privacy. The recently renovated home is located on the largest lot in Bent Cypress. The property has gorgeous golf and lake views. Large sliding glass doors open the homes living space to the marble pool area and outdoor gas fireplace. Offered at $2,500,000
Palm Beach Polo • Bent Cypress: Fully fur nished cour tyar d home overlooks a lake and golf course. 4 bedrooms 4.5 bathrooms in main house and 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom in guest house. The home has been recently decorated and features and marvelous heated pool and spa. Available for seasonal rent. Offer ed at $1,595,000
Jordan Hayman • Phone +1-561-315-3889 • Fax +1-561-791-2221 www.jordanhayman.evusa.com • Wellington, Florida Jordan.Hayman@evusa.com
I Do. Last issue, we met grand-prix rider, ASHLEE BOND, and her fiance, SAGE CLARKE, as they relaxed in the pool before she competed in the HITS Thermal $1 Million Grand Prix. Now they are MARRIED. Ashlee and Sage’s beautiful wedding took place on October 13 at Saddlerock Ranch in Malibu, Calif., a 1,000-acre winery with horses, donkeys, a camel, llamas, and about 100 guests.
PHOTOS FOR EQ BY GEORGE KAMPER IN INDIO CALIF.
WEDDING PHOTOS BY LOVE & LEMONADE PHOTOGRAPHY
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Palm Beach Point East: Exquisite far m on 10 manicur ed acr es with a 22 stall barn. Tr uly a quick hack to Palm Beach Inter national Equestr ian Center, but quiet enough for horses and riders to relax away from the show. Includes a spacious owners lounge with living area, full bathroom and tack room, as well as two, 2 BR/1 BA grooms quarters each with a full kitchen and living room. A large Riso 2000 ring, 3 acre grass jumping field, 7 large grass paddocks, 6 horse walker and plenty of storage in the feed room and garage to complete this impeccable farm, whether for seasonal use or a year round home base. There is ample space for trailer parking, jump storage and a 10 stall temporary horse tent during season. No detail was overlooked in the design or finish of this exceptional property. Being sold with all farm equipment and jumps. Offered turnkey at $7,800,000
Palm Beach Polo • Bent Cypress: Beautifully appointed and upgraded home with amazing water and golf course views. Perfect for entertaining inside and out with a patio on each level. With a unique split floor plan, there are two bedrooms upstairs where guests and/or children have their own living area/media room. One of a kind furnished home with careful attention to detail around every corner. Offered at $1,395,000
Palm Beach Polo • Muir Circle: Fully r enovated fr om top to bottom and endless opportunities to entertain. The back yard is fully fenced with mature landscaping and the privacy garden off of the master bedroom is the perfect sunny place to start your day. Don't miss this opportunity to move right in to one of the most unique homes in the polo club. Offered turnkey at $895,000
Visse Wedell • Phone +1-203-856-7882 • Fax +1-561-791-2221 www.vissewedell.evusa.com • Wellington, Florida Visse.Wedell@evusa.com
GALLOPS BY THE GLASSFUL:
THE
ART WINES EQUINES OF
AND BY L.A. POMEROY
A
toast attributed to that most prolific of authors, Anonymous, wishes four blessings upon those you love: “Older wine. Younger lovers. Faster horses. More money.”
• Love and money we’ll leave up to
you, but as for wines and equines, American vine-
yards don’t shy away from labels heralding horses of very different red, white, and rosé colors.
• Behind each label is its own horse story.
Some honor wild spirits that once galloped free. Others recognize those saved from slaughter and contribute sales to benefit equine rescue.
• Whichever the bottle, what pours into each glass is a shared
celebration of the horse. When planning your next soiree for appreciators of all things vine and equine, consider horse-themed labels for added panache. Like the steeds they celebrate, there’s one for every discipline and palate. Whichever your choice of appellation, artful presentation lies not only in the label, but in the hospitality with which it is poured.
• In olden China, the arrival of a guest by horseback called
for the highest level of etiquette. Known traditionally as “proposing a toast on horseback,” one was expected to offer good wine to a new guest before they had dismounted to the ground, with the appropriate salutation to their good health of “Wen lie.”
14 HANDS/CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE WINERY Woodinville, Wash. 14 Hands was inspired by a time when mustangs roamed Washington State. The horses, a scant 14 hands, came down from the hills to drink from the Columbia River and graze along its banks. The loamy sand and gravel landscape that gave these herds their spirited tenacity feed vines whose grapes are handcrafted into fruit-forward reds and whites laced with unbridled spirit
46 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
• We’ll drink to that.
and legend. The artwork on the 14 Hands label is Colorado artist Cynthia Sampson’s pastel painting, Wild Horses, and appears on its varietals and Hot to Trot red and white blends. First released in 2002, Ste. Michelle’s exclusive rights to the original work made prints unavailable until 2012. “The availability now has been well received by people who love the art on the label,” says Sampson, whose limited edition prints are available at zebrajazzstudio.com.
MURRIETA’S WELL Livermore Valley, Calif.
FARRIER WINE COMPANY Santa Rosa, Calif. In the late 1900s, a general store known as Jimtown opened on Highway 128 in Sonoma County, joined across the street by a farrier/blacksmith locally regarded as the best horseshoer in the valley. Farrier Vineyards are planted on the site of that former farrier’s shop and inspired by its area history. “Our philosophy is straightforward,” says winemaker Lisa Valtenbergs. “Focus on the vineyard and let the fruit shine through.” Hammering that point with the surety of forge and anvil, Farrier Presshouse red blends and Andiron (Semillon) white blends are named for an era when the horse and horseshoer were still king.
Named for the Gold Rush-era bandit Joaquin Murietta, who frequented the ar tesian well at the front of the winery, its labels (par t of the Wente Family Estates por tfolio) are inspired by historic symbols of the role Mexican horsemanship played in West Coast history. The winery was cofounded in 1990 by Philip Wente and Sergio Traverso, who was attracted to the lore surrounding the old winery site in a play written by Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda about Murrieta. The Whip blends aromatic white grapes suggesting white peach, baked apple, honey, and butterscotch into a superb aperitif. The Spur (whose 2010 vintage earned a Gold Medal at the 2013 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo) is a red blend crafted with hints of blackberry and blueberry flavors and notes of chocolate, anise, and toasted oak.
BLACK STALLION ESTATE WINERY Napa, Calif. Located on the grounds of a former equestrian center, the Indelicato family’s Black Stallion Winery is based in Napa Valley’s Oak Knoll District and pays homage to the 32-acre estate’s former incarnation as the Silverado Horseman’s Center, whose heyday boasted an indoor arena and 3,000-spectator outdoor stadium. Remains of the original stalls are still visible as is—from the estate’s entrance—a 10-foot bronze sculpture of a rearing black stallion much like the one on its labels. Commissioned in 2007 (the same year Black Stallion began winemaking production in the former indoor arena), the sculpted stallion is by David L. Spellerberg, founder of the National Heritage Collectors Society and prestigious National Heritage Gallery of Fine Art on Rodeo Drive. Black Stallion labels also gallop unfettered throughout the winery’s Bucephalus Experience, an in-depth vertical tasting of vintages offered on weekends and by reservation.
WINTER 2 0 1 3 | 2 0 1 4 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 47
THE SARATOGA WINERY Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Horses are synonymous with Saratoga, so it’s no surprise that among its 20 varietals are nine with equestrian themes, including Thunder Rumble Red, created by artist Frankie Flores to honor the former Travers Stakes winner. For each bottle of Thunder Rumble sold, the winery contributes $8 to nearby retired Thoroughbred race horse facility, Old Friends-NY at Cabin Creek Farm/The Bobby Frankel Division. Proprietor Tara Savage Nimmo personally selects the art and design for each label, based on a wine’s flavor profile. “We have two bold reds which carry a label showcasing a bold painting of strong horses by Frankie Flores,” She says. “Our Cabernet blend depicts a steeplechase.” In 2013, labels for two specialty wines, created by Amy Greth to commemorate Saratoga Race Track’s 150th anniversary, featured Man o’ War and Old Rose Bud.
SWEDISH HILL WINERY Saratoga, N.Y. It’s hard to say which has become more famous among Central New York’s Finger Lakes: the Peterson family’s winery or its Miniature Donkey mascot, Doobie. Named ‘Top Winery’ at the 2013 New York State Fair Commercial Winery Competition, Swedish Hill crushed its first grapes in 1985, just two years before its four-legged sommelier was foaled. Now 26 years young, Doobie’s “sweet and spunky” personality has inspired Doobie Blues, and Jack Ass and Smart Ass Reds. Shorter of ear but just as long on taste are the popular and artfully equine Svenska White, Blush, and Red labels, named for the Swedish dialect of the family heritage.
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BAITING HOLLOW FARM VINEYARD AND HORSE RESCUE Calverton, N.Y.
WOMEN, WINE & EQUINE (Central Valley, Calif.)
“I didn’t star t out a horse person who wanted to rescue horses. I was a dog person who became horrified by horse slaughter,” says Sharon Rubin Levine of Baiting Hollow Farm. Too moved to ignore the plight of unwanted horses, she and Richard Rubin opened the only rescue of its kind at the North Fork, Long Island, winery in October 2007. The grand opening of BHF’s Tasting House coincided with the arrival of three horses: Prince, Mirage, and Angel. Today, nearly 30 second-chance equine ambassadors help spread a public message about the need for legislation to protect horses. Some grace the labels of BHF Horse Rescue Wines, where 100% of sales are contributed by BHF to the Baiting Hollow Horse Rescue (BHHR) cause. Angel, an 18-month-old Thoroughbred filly saved from the kill pen, is namesake to its slightly bold, par tially oak-aged Chardonnay. Her ‘label mates’ include Mirage (a Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon blend named for their “adored Arabian princess”) and Savannah Rose (a dry Rosé with berry, vanilla, and rhubarb aromas inspired by a yearling Thoroughbred filly). “Horses helped build this country,” says Levine. “We owe this to them.” Baiting Hollow Farm wines are available online, at its Tasting House, and in select restaurants and stores.
T
hree cheers for Rebecca Heinrich and Tonia Snyder, who transformed three of their favorite things—horses, wine and friends— into an engine of support for cancer research. Rebecca Heinrich explains how it happened. “Sitting around the ranch...we decided to form a ‘club,’” she says. “Women, Wine & Equine was born that day. We promised each other we would make T-shirts and wear them proudly. Unfortunately, life got in the way and we didn’t get around to making good on our promise. “Our friend Karen passed away from cancer in 2009, three days after her last ride. After our broken hearts mended, we reflected on the life lessons Karen graciously and at times firmly taught us young fillies, which brought us to the conclusion that life is short and we are never guaranteed more than the present, so embrace each day. Above all, be happy and thankful for your friends, wine and horses. Cheers to Karen and ‘besties’ everywhere who enjoy life.” A percentage of all sales from the WWE boutique catalog—from etched wine glasses and ‘redneck’ goblets to the ‘Perfect: It’s not a state of being, it’s a state of mind’ T-shirt campaign—benefits cancer charities and research. The WWE boutique line is also carried by one of their favorite after-ride labels: Black Stallion Estate Winery of Napa Valley.
WILD HORSE WINERY AND VINEYARDS Templeton, Calif. “We named the winery Wild Horse as tribute to the mustangs that once roamed the hills above the vineyards,” says visitor center manager Leslie Churchill. “And quite possibly we had the Cal Poly mascot – a galloping horse – in mind.” After all, this is the luxury wine that began three decades ago as a California Polytechnic Institute senior project, in a plastic tub, stirred with a baseball bat. Its unconventional story of “unbridled passion, great wine grapes, and not much else” has produced such bold offerings as Unbridled Whites (Chardonnay) and Reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Zinfandel) and its 2009 Reserve ‘tete du cuvee,’ or finest wine, Cheval Sauvage (French for wild horse) Pinot Noir.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE WINES, SEE
ON PAGE 96
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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E B Y S T E P H A N I E P E T E R S
This page, clockwise: An impressive display of awards at Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses; award belt buckles are signature accessories in western wear; accent belts add color and shine; a western still life staged at Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses Farm; reining competitor Shawn Stratman provides pointers on the sport; colorful handmade horse blankets add polish in the show pen. Opposite page top: An array of spurs on display in Katy, Texas; reiner Robert Webb poses with his horse Spin; a jacket with color and flair is accepted attire in the reining show pens.
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OF
GEORGE KAMPER
T H E E X C I T I N G WO R L D O F
Reining Texas IN
DISCOVER WHY SPINN IN G, SL IDING, L OPING, A N D R IDING HAVE PROPELLED T HE POPU L ARIT Y OF R EINING TO UNDENI AB L E HEIGHT S.
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Lyle Lovett THE RENAISSANCE COWBOY OF TEXAS BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
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Lyle Lovett, known globally for his crooning, bluesy voice and his eclectic mix of jazz, bluegrass, big-band swing, and country music, has been writing and performing music since the early ’80s. He has recorded 14 albums and has been awarded four Grammy Awards and scores of other music accolades. He’s enjoyed an equally impressive acting career, appearing in 13 feature films and numerous television shows. He is currently a cast member on the chilling drama series, The Bridge. He is also an accomplished reiner, an ultimate horseman, and a sentimental Texas cowboy.
BY SUE WEAKLEY
I
t was one of those classic summer days of south
Southwest Equestrian Center, a vast 70-acre, multi-
Texas when the temperature and humidity lev-
arena venue. He was in town for the week to compete
els are evenly matched at 90 and any hope of a
in the non-professional events at the Heritage Futu-
breeze seemed to hinge on the whim of nature. We met Lyle Lovett in Katy, Texas—an emerging suburb just west of Houston and home to the Great
rity, a reining competition for 3-year-olds sponsored by Tim and Colleen McQuay of McQuay Stables (see The Reining First Family on page 62.)
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J O H N B R A S S E AU X
This page, clockwise: Lyle executing a sliding-stop in competition; relaxed after competition; watching the Heritage Futurity with Mandy McCutcheon; Lyle’s ornate custom belt buckle; his prized stallion, Smart and Shiney. Opposite page: Lyle takes some time to tell us about his horses and the sport of reining.
“W HE N I WATCH THE HU NTE R JU M PE RS , IT JU S T LOOKS S O DIF F E RE NT TO M E . W E RIDE ON A LOOS E RE IN, AND M U CH OF IT IS THE W ILLINGNE S S OF THE HORS E . IT’S INTE RE S TING TO OB S E RVE THE DIF F E RE NCE .”
In spite of the conditions, Lyle showed up unceremoniously, looking crisp, relaxed, and unfettered by the heat. He embodied the look of a cowboy–the dust-covered boots, the custom belt buckle, the requisite spurs. But if you have listened to his music, read his incisive lyrics, or observed him on the silver screen, you already know that Lyle is a multi-dimensional cowboy.
horse-show kid. I grew up going to the racetrack. My family was in the business of running Quarter Horses all my life.” His family also had a small running-Quarter-Horse breeding operation as he was growing up, and they still have a Quarter Horse on the track now. “We were always trying to make riding horses out of our retired racehorses,” Lovett exA N AT I V E T EXAN plained. But in the late 1990s he wanted to get Lovett is a born and bred Texan. He grew up his dad a really nice riding horse for Christmas surrounded by family farmland in Klein, Texas, and started looking around. That’s when he located 30 miles north of Houston. He seems discovered reining horses. anchored there and still lives in the house his “The first reining show I saw was right here grandparents built in 1911. Horses were always at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center,” said part of his life, but Lovett said, “I was not a Lyle. “I came to the Breeders Classic in 2001,
a show that Tim and Colleen McQuay were instrumental in starting.” Since then Lyle has partnered with the McQuays in the purchasing, training, and breeding of several reining show horses. “Their group, along with the McCutcheons, another revered family of reining champions, have built this entire enrollment program for foals that is just amazing,” said Lovett. “Colleen’s experience with her hunter jumper world has done wonders for extending the life of our show horses.” Lyle added, “In the hunter jumper world you don’t even start until they are 4, and you see horses showing on the Olympic level well into their teens.” The biggest earning potential year for Quarter Horses is the futurity year, which,
Continued on page 77
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in the case of reiners, is 3 years old. Every year beyond that point yields diminishing returns. The McQuays have done a lot to build value into the derby years that include the 4-, 5-, and 6-year-olds. Some can compete at amateur level into their early 20s. The derby years enable people to keep their horses in training for a longer time. Lovett told us his horses weren’t quite ready for the futurity. “We started a little bit late. My goal is to have good, sound, derby horses rather than putting all my eggs in one basket,” he said. “I decided to take a slower approach with these horses.” S M A RT A N D S HINEY
One of his pride and joys is his beautiful, dappled palomino stallion, Smart and Shiney (See page 54). Lyle has shown him in exhibition and non-professional classes, while world-champion trainer and breeder Tim McQuay has ridden him to top-10 finishes and finalist-placings in open competition. In 2010, Smart and Shiney was loaned to team Italy—ridden by McQuay’s assistant trainer Marco Ricotta—at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., and earned a team bronze. Lyle describes Smart and Shiney as the nicest horse he’s ever ridden. His horse has enjoyed a successful and lucrative career and now has the role of standing stud at McQuay Stables in Tioga, Texas. It turns out Lyle has a soft spot for dogs too. He will be traveling to Wellington, Fla., this winter to partner with Danny and Ron’s Dog Rescue at their country-western fundraising event. Lyle will be a guest judge for a children’s team vocal competition. I asked how often Lyle gets to ride, given his demanding concert tours and charitable work that have him performing and traveling more than 100 days a year. He said, “not enough, but I spend all the time that I can riding. I go to three or four shows a year.” That’s the most intensive riding he gets to do. Lyle added, “The McQuays have the horses so well
trained and in such good condition. It’s the only way I can do it. Even with horses at home I don’t get to ride enough.” With more and more hunter jumper riders giving reining a try, it seemed plausible to ask if Lyle had done the reverse and given any English disciplines a try. “I’ve never been in an English saddle, but I would like to give it a try,” said Lovett. “I’ve never been aboard any of our racing horses on the track either. When I watch the hunter jumpers, it just looks so different to me,” he commented. “Here we ride on a loose rein and much of it is the willingness of the horse. It’s interesting to observe the difference.” Lyle walked away with numerous firstplace awards in the non-pro events during his days at the Heritage Futurity. “It’s always a challenge and there are always things you can do better,” said Lyle. “It’s such a test to feel your horse on a given day and be able to react on him. You can’t go into the show pen and think this is what I’m going to do.” He is a quiet, graceful rider demonstrating perfect control even at faster speeds. Even his dizzying spins produced the desired appearance of spinning in place.
Lyle describes his style in the competition ring as basic, conservative, and understated. “The general rule is to coordinate your shirt and blanket. I just end up wearing dark colors,” said Lovett. “Even though you don’t get points for your style or have points taken away, it all goes to that overall picture.” A MAN W I TH STY L E
Lovett is a man who finds beauty in the details; he is studied and precise. He can tell you his boots were made by Lee and Carrlyn Miller in Austin, Texas, and that Lee was the last apprentice to the great old bootmaker, Charlie Dunn. He knows that his custom belt buckle— a gift from his fiancée—was made by Clint Orms, and that making subtle adjustments to the scallops and cuffs on a shirt design would produce a more desirable look. So much so that he now has a signature line of custom western shirts in collaboration with custom shirtmaker, Hamilton Shirts. While speaking with Lyle about his perfectly shaped cowboy hat, he took it off to show me the inside and talked about Tony Matthews, the man who gave his hat the perfect contour. Shortly after that I read a piece about cowboy hat protocol. A cowboy claimed you can drop a hat, have it sit in the dirt and dust, and be trampled by cows and horses. But just don’t let a man touch it. There must be some credence to the tale, because Lyle wrote and titled a song “Don’t Touch My Hat.” Horses also make their way into Lyle’s lyrics—literally, figuratively, and sometimes metaphorically. Lyle explained in an interview that in the song “Natural Forces,” the line “Home is where my horse is” conveys the message that home is where our responsibilities lie. Home is a place where we become who we are. Lyle is completely at home in Texas–reining, riding, spinning, and sliding. So thank you ma’am, I must decline For it’s on my 3-year-old I ride An’ I’ve spin an’ run an’ stopped an’ slide I’m subject to the natural forces Home is where my horse is.
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PAGE 96
A PERSONAL GALLERY
During our two days together, we learned of Lyle’s love of photography. Please enjoy this gallery of HIS FAVORITE IMAGES.
Lyle shoots with a CannonEOS-1D X DSLR.
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See more of Lyle’s personal photography at www.EQmag.us/Lyle 58 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
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The Right Look FUNDAMENTAL FASHION GUIDELINES REIGN SUPREME IN WESTERN REINING SHOW PENS. WITH BRIANNA SLOAN
Fashion has long been considered subjective, but in the horse-show world, tradition rules. Much like in the hunter and dressage rings, there are also expected turnouts in the western reining-show pens. They’re just a lot more colorful. Brianna Sloan, reining competitor and owner of Lucky Paint Custom Shirts, provided an introduction to western reining show wear.
B
egin with the saddle blanket. Choose one that will complement the horse’s color and, if you can, try to have them custom made. The best blankets are hand made and more expensive, but they look better and last longer. There are extensive libraries of colors and designs to consider before selecting the perfect pattern. The standard rule is to match your show shirt with the saddle blanket. Keep things on the simpler side. The objective is to complement the blanket, not compete with it. A neutral, well-tailored shirt is preferable and long sleeves are mandatory. If the shirt is clean, crisp, and fits well, it gets the job done–with or without embellishments. Decorative jackets and vests are also acceptable but should
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still reflect a classic approach to western wear. The western hat conveys to the judges that you are a serious competitor. It’s essential that the hat is clean, nicely shaped, and fits well enough to stay on during competition. A flat hat will detract from the overall objective of looking sharp and professional as you enter the show pen. Too much bling can be a detriment and a distraction to the judges. The horse should always be the main statement–not a pair of rhinestonestudded chaps. Our job is to make the horse look as good as it can, not ourselves. The silver saddle is ubiquitous among western reining riders. Even if you don’t have the newest style and only have subtle silver enhancements, it has to be clean when you enter Clockwise from upper left: the show pen. Reiners typically have a weathered and worn Brianna Sloan demonstrates work saddle and a silver show saddle that is stored in a bag coordinating a shirt with a and only used for competition. blanket; a beautiful, handAs in any other equestrian discipline, it’s a matter of stepdecorated leather jacket; the ping back and looking at the whole picture. It takes time gleam of silver on a saddle. PAGE 96 Center: handmade blankets. and thought to put together a polished look.
A Reining Primer MANY EQUEST RIANS MIGHT BE SU RPR ISED TO L EARN T H AT REINING IS OFT EN DESCR IBED AS WEST ERN DR ESSAGE .
O
riginally, reining grew from the highly specialized movements that horses needed to learn to herd cattle. Now an FEI discipline since 2000, the first FEI World Reining Championship took place in 2002 during the FEI World Equestrian Games at Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, when USA’s Shawn W. Flarida became the first world champion. Tim McQuay won gold and silver medals in Aachen, Germany in 2006. Tom McCutcheon won both individual and team gold medals on Gunners Special Nite at the 2010 event in Lexington, Ky. (See page 94.) Often described as Western dressage, reining is designed to show the athletic ability of ranch-type horses in the confines of a show arena. Contestants are required to run one of 10 approved patterns, divided into seven or eight maneuvers, including small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, 360-degree spins, and what is generally considered the signature move of the reining horse, the sliding stop. Despite the seemingly relaxed attitude of both horse and rider and the loose reins typically used, reining demands high levels of concentration and riding skills, with smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness, and authority all being closely watched. RE Q U I RED MAN E UV E R S A N D HOW REI NI NG IS JUD G E D : CIRCLES Patterns call for a combination of
three circles ridden in each direction, including two fast circles and one small slow circle. The large fast circles are performed at a near gallop and the smaller circles more slowly. All circles should be the same size. There should be an easily seen change of speed as the rider transitions from the large, fast to the small, slow circles. Most circles incorporate changes of direction that require a flying change of lead. LEAD CHANGES While completing a change
at speed can improve one’s score, precision is the most important factor in judging. A horse taking more than one stride to complete the
change, or a horse that changes early, late, or that changes only the front feet and not the hind feet will be penalized. SPINS While reining patterns vary, most
require four spins in each direction. Beginning from a standstill, the horse spins 360 degrees or more (up to 4 1/4 full turns) in place around its stationary inside hind leg. The hind pivot foot remains in essentially the same location throughout the spin, though the horse will pick it up and put it down as it turns. Spins are judged on correctness, smoothness, and cadence. Speed adds to the difficulty and will improve the score of a correctly done spin. RUN DOWN The horse gallops or runs along REINING PATTERNS The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) defines 10 reining patterns that can be used in sanctioned competition, as well as an 11th pattern for 10-and-under youth (“shor t stirrup”) events. Each pattern is a variation on a set number of required maneuvers, including large fast circles, small slow circles, spins in both directions, flying lead changes, roll backs, sliding stops, and back up. All of these patterns are to be completed one-handed in an approved NRHA bit. (This is Pattern 4.) 1. Beginning on the right lead, complete three circles to the right: the first two large and fast; the third circle small and slow. Stop at the center of the arena. Hesitate. 2. Complete four spins to the right. Hesitate. 3. Beginning on the left lead, complete three circles to the left: the first two circles large and fast; the third circle small and slow. Stop at the center of the arena. Hesitate. 4. Complete four spins to the left. Hesitate. 5. Beginning on the right lead, run a large fast circle to the right, change leads at the center of the arena, run a large fast circle to the left, and change leads at the center of the arena (a figure eight). 6. Continue around previous circle to the right. At the top of the circle, run down the middle to the far end of the arena past the end marker and do a right rollback—no hesitation. 7. Run up the middle to the opposite end of the arena past the end marker and do a left rollback—no hesition. 8. Run past the center marker and do a sliding stop. Back up to the center of the arena, or at least 10 feet. Hesitate to demonstrate completion of the pattern.
the length of the arena and builds up speed preparing for the stopping maneuver. STOP The horse accelerates to a gallop and
then suddenly, upon command, immediately commits his hind legs to the ground while continuing to let its front feet walk forward, creating the sliding stop. The back should become round or rounded up as the hind quarters come well underneath. A particularly powerful stop may, depending on arena conditions, produce flying dirt and an exciting cloud of dust. The movement should finish in a straight line, and the horse’s position should not change. Like spins, this movement is a crowd favorite. ROLL BACK After halting from a sliding stop, the horse immediately and without hesitation performs a 180-degree turn, and immediately goes forward again into a lope. The horse must turn on its hindquarters, bringing its hocks well under, and the motion should be continuous with no hesitation. HESITATE OR PAUSE The horse is asked to
stand still for a few seconds to “settle” between certain movements in the reining pattern, particularly after spins. A horse that shows displeasure when asked to wait will receive a maneuver score reduction.
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IF T HE SPORT OF R EINING HAD A ROYAL FAMILY, THEN T HE McQUAYS AND McCU T CHEON S WOU L D R ISE TO T HE T HRONE.
BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
I
The Reining First Family
t’s challenging to see where one family ends and the other begins. They are intertwined and immensely supportive of each other yet they stand separately—each family with their impressive accomplishments and unique visions
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for their prospering businesses. Their combined lists of awards are so extensive that we’ve listed them in a separate sidebar on page 94. The family connection is fairly simple. Mandy McQuay, Tim and Colleen McQuays’ daughter, is married to Tom McCutcheon. The
McCutcheon’s two children, Cade and Carlee, both ride and have added a “third generation” to these esteemed families of western reiners and hunter jumpers. Tom’s father rode both cutting and reining horses and is the first inductee into the Minnesota Cutting Horse Hall
“T HESE FAMIL IES HAV E DONE WON DERS FO R EXT ENDIN G T HE L IFE OF R EINING SHOW H O RS ES ” —LYL E L OV ET T
Tim and Colleen McQuay at at the Heritage Futurity, October 2013.
Champion Hall of Famer Tim McQuay competing at the Heritage Futurity in Katy, Texas.
Tom and Mandy McCutcheon at their farm outside Dallas.
of Fame. Two of Tom’s brothers have also joined the horse business. We approached these legends as novices— hoping to glean as much as we could from their combined wealth of knowledge. We were reining neophytes, if you will.
Tim McQuay while we observed the riders as they attempted to execute the compulsory patterns and standard maneuvers. Tim pointed out why some riders succeeded and others fell short in the eyes of the judges. A slight over-rotation of a spin or an extra stride on a lead change would be penalized. In many cases the nuances between a good ride and a bad are extremely subtle, particularly to an untrained eye. All competitors are required to ride the same basic patterns, but they vary in degree of difficulty. There are youth classes for kids,
TH E M c Q UAYS
We met Tim and Colleen McQuay of McQuay Stables at the Heritage Futurity, a reining horse show they host for 3-year-olds in Katy, Texas. Who better to sit with than champion reiner
non-professional classes, novice levels that are based on the horse’s earnings, and after that it’s open classes. Tim watches a lot of reiners in competition. “It can get boring,” said Tim. “The first goarounds of qualifying rounds for the futurities and derbies can take four days. That’s a lot of reining to watch. You sit and watch and watch, and then one comes in and you know it’s fabulous and you think, ‘don’t mess up.’” He added, “It’s awesome to see a horse be so good no matter who is riding.”
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We asked about a style—why the horses hold their head quite low—that seemed unique to reining. Tim said, “It’s style but many horses are just that way from their breeding, and it is more natural for them. Everyone is trying to breed or build that style. Someone had a superstar horse, and it was decided that it was a cool look and it simply caught on.” Tim offers infinite wisdom and credibility. His awards and earnings are legendary, and he has been described as one of the greatest in the history of reining. These accolades are substantiated with over $3 million-dollars in winnings and countless awards. (See Reining Royals sidebar on page 94 for a comprehensive list of awards.) Tim’s contribution to the recognition and growth of the sport of reining is as impressive as his accomplishments in competition. Its popularity is on the rise, and some high-profile shows such as the Ariat Tulsa Reining Classic are experiencing as much as a 25 percent growth. Tim is a horseman first and approaches his training in a healthy and intelligent way. He always puts the health and safety of his horses first. Contrary to what you might assume, it was East Coast cowboys that started the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA). Tim explained, “The East Coast is the core of where this whole reining discipline started. We used to haul our horses to New York. They reined on Long Island, in Pennsylvania, and eventually formed the NRHA in Ohio.” Tim added, “It was really just a group of guys that wanted to make up some patterns and put some money in a pot to run.” But informal reining really started with western cowboys, ranchers, and the American Quarter Horse Association. The ranchers had contests to see whose horse could turn the fastest, or handle a cow, or change leads quickly. Colleen McQuay is every bit the horsewoman, and her list of accomplishments both in the saddle and as a trainer is astonishing. What is truly unique and rarely seen is her profound level of expertise in both Western and English arenas. Colleen has earned numerous awards in the United States Equestrian Federation hunter divisions while also earning championships at the American Quarter Horse Association events. Her dedication and commitment to the growth and success of the reining horse industry and hunter jumper division is renowned. (See sidebar on page 94 for a comprehensive list of awards and organization affiliations.)
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Colleen is a driving force in the equine world, and her sincere love of horses guides everything she does. She has been described as a great horsewoman with an uncanny eye for spotting talent and an unerring knack for keeping horses sound and performing at peak performance. A V ISIT WIT H T HE McCU T CHEONS
Tom and Mandy McCutcheon were incredibly hospitable to EQ even while in the midst of sending trailers of horses, crews, and necessary equestrian gear to the Heritage Futurity horse show slated to begin that week. They were as gracious as they come and experts on all things reining. We met them at their 150-acre ranch in the lush horse country of Aubrey, Texas, where they own and operate Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses. It is a full training, breeding, and rehabilitation facility with a worldwide clientele. They have 250 horses on the property, four of which are champion standing stallions. They recently launched Tom McCutcheon’s: Virtual Horse Help, an online service offering horse-training videos, tips, video biographies, behind-the-scenes with world-class riders, and more. Tom is one of reining industry’s leading riders with numerous awards and championships to his credit and earnings exceeding $1 million. He is a co-founder and chairman of the board of directors of the National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC)—the largest addedmoney reining event and stallion incentive program in history. His wife, Mandy is also one of the industry’s leading riders and the only woman and non-pro to surpass $1 million in earnings; she was inducted into the NRHA Hall of Fame in 2011. Growing up riding hunters and jumpers, she has accrued many championships in that world as well, including the USEF Talent Derby. Continued on page 94
AT HO ME W IT H T HE Mc C U T C HEO N S This page, top to bottom: Carlee McCutcheon proudly displays her show ribbons; Cade McCutcheon, already winning in non-pro events, exhibits classic reining form; Tom McCutcheon’s custom reining-inspired briefcase; Mandy McCutcheon stops to talk about the family business. Opposite, clockwise from top: Mandy and Tom in front of an impressive display of championship trophies; 250 horses enjoy a comfor table life at the McCutcheon farm; Tom’s ornately tooled leather poker table; entrance to Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses in Aubrey, Texas.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, SEE
ON PAGE 96
Texas Diary WHEN THE EQ TEAM RETURNS FROM OUR EXCURSIONS, WE OFTEN HEAR, “WOW, WHAT A FUN TRIP! WHERE DID YOU STAY/EAT/ETC?” HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE “FINDS” IN DALLAS AND HOUSTON.
MOM’S ON MAIN, AUBREY (DALLAS) We joined Tom and Mandy McCutcheon for lunch at an authentic, nearby “home-cookin’ ” cafe, and lots of friends dropped by to join us. This is what you hope small-town America would be, but rarely is. If it’s your first visit to Mom’s, they’ll welcome you with a piece of what might be the best chocolate cake you’ve ever tasted. Below, clockwise from left: Tom McCutcheon, Mandy McCutcheon, Shawn Stratman, Mirjam Stillo, Daniel Williams, Andrea Stillo, Allen Stratman, and EQ Editor Stephanie Peters; bottom, Mom’s owners Steve and Krys Murray.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION, SEE
ON PAGE 96
THE JOULE HOTEL, DALLAS A wonderful surprise in Dallas, the Joule is adjacent to the flagship Neiman Marcus store. The hotel was recently redesigned by Adam Tihany (named one of the greatest interior architects by The New York Times) and features a collection of amazing art, a wonderful lobby, and outstanding service and hospitality. It’s a refreshing change from cookie-cutter chain accommodations and would be at home in New York’s SoHo.
THE GREAT SOUTHWEST EQUESTRIAN CENTER, KATY (HOUSTON) The leading venue in the Southwest hosts events of numerous disciplines, including the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show and the National Reining Breeders Classic. There are four covered arenas, with a huge main arena that seats 4,000 spectators, five outdoor arenas, and stalls for up to 1,000 horses. But what we especially enjoyed was the relaxed atmosphere and warm, friendly welcome from everyone we met. Above, Sean Brown, general manager, and Amy Uniss, equestrian manager.
RAINBOW LODGE, HOUSTON If we lived in Houston, we’d be regulars. Amazing reviews on OpenTable drew the weary EQ crew to this historic, 100-year-old log cabin, right in the middle of Houston. Rainbow Lodge specializes in wild game and freshly-grown vegetables.
AIRPORT MOUNTED RANGERS, HOUSTON The only mounted airport security group in America, the Airpor t Rangers are made up of volunteers, including off-duty law enforcement officers that ride their horses along the perimeter of the 13,000-acre George Bush Intercontinental Airpor t. In return for keeping an eye out for and reporting any suspicious activity in the area, the equestrians have a pristine location, including wooded trails to ride. Meanwhile the airport has extra eyes and ears in areas that most security patrols cannot easily access. Left, Airport Rangers Melissa Haberman, Leif Hakansson, Darolyn Butler, Lindsay Norris, and Juan Ar thur. WINTER 2 0 1 3 | 2 0 1 4 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 67
THE GOLD STANDARD With European influence and quality of presentation, the AMERICAN GOLD CUP is raising the show-jumping standard.
THE BOOK, LLC
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ounded in 1970, the American Gold Cup has always been considered one of the most prestigious equestrian sporting events in North America. Originally held in Cleveland, Ohio, the show moved to Tampa, Fla., and was held for more than twenty years at the Devon Horse Show grounds. But in its new home at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, N.Y., the show has accomplished its slogan and then some. The American Gold Cup is truly “where excellence meets tradition” and has become an EQ favorite. Riders like world champion and Olympic Gold Medalist Beezie Madden, fellow Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward, and this year’s American Gold Cup winner Brianne Goutal agree: the 2013 American Gold Cup was
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BY CARRIE WIRTH
reminiscent of Europe’s finest show-jumping events. The organizers welcomed the world’s show-jumping elite to enjoy competition on what is considered the country’s finest and most challenging grand prix field. In Europe, spectators come in droves to watch show jumping. In this country, it takes a concerted effort to accomplish a full house. The Gold Cup achieved a full house of 4,000 spectators with the help of their marketing partner, Westchester County, N.Y. Spectators new to the sport were greeted and welcomed, and they expressed their enjoyment as they cheered clear rounds and sighed for downed rails. The organizers, Stadium Jumping and Old Salem Farm, provided a high level of excellence for competitors, sponsors and spectators. The unique and exquisite two-story VIP tent, sponsored by Hermès, was a feast for the senses. The space provided optimal views of competition on the grand prix field and was arranged for guests to meander and enjoy an exhibition of
Robert Dutesco’s The Wild Horses of Sable Island. The food served went well beyond the typical fare, and guests were greeted by gold-painted live mannequins. An orange Hermès ribbon, in place of the usual wristband as the pass to the VIP area, added to the elegant touches that set the event apart from the rest. Shopping at the Gold Cup offered a range of high-style fashion, including Hermès, jewelry by Roberto Coin, antiques, art, and equestrian tack and equipment. Competitors showed their appreciation of the invitational format, absence of entry fees, large stalls, great footing, and quality-focused infrastructure by mingling with the spectators and offering autographs and conversation. The feature event, the American Gold Cup CSI4*-W Jumper Classic, presented by Suncast, was broadcast on the NBC Sports Network the following Sunday to a national audience.
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1. Beezie Madden signing autographs for fans; 2. McClain Ward and Cadence; EQ Editor Stephanie Peters and Sara Alvarez of Hermès; 4. One of the gold-painted live mannequins; 5. The unique twostory Hermès VIP tent; 6. Heralding the start. 7. Stadium Jumping’s president, Michael Morrissey; 8,9. 2013 American Gold Cup winner Brianne Goutal.
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1, 3, 5. The Hermès VIP area featured complimentary fragrance samples, signature pillows, and of course, EQ magazines; 2. Just World’s Horseless Horseshow; 4. Sunday’s event was broadcast on NBC Sports Network; 6. Westchester County Executive, Robert Astorina, winner Brianne Goutal, and Hunter Harrison; 7. EQ’s Jill Medinger and Abby Google with last year’s Gold Cup winner and EQ advisor, Peter Leone; 8. Double H Farm’s table; 9. Mei Mei Newsome and Maverick; 10, 11. Shopping offered a range of high-style fashion, including Hermès, Roberto Coin, antiques and art, and equestrian tack and equipment.
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hile riders twisted and galloped their way through the grandprix course below, I sat down with Nick Dello Joio on the second floor of the Hermès VIP viewing tent at the American Gold Cup. I was immediately struck by his relaxed yet impressive demeanor. At 23, his youthful enthusiasm made the interview comfortable and spontaneous, yet he spoke eloquently, with the poise and wisdom of a seasoned professional. He and his father, Norman Dello Joio, the famed show-jumping Olympian, run an equestrian business in Bedford, N.Y., where Nick says they don’t get to spend much time. “We are kind of globe-trotters during the summer,” says Nick, “but when we come back, Bedford is our home.” Despite his father’s impressive career, Nick was never pressured to ride. “My parents really wanted us to find our own goals,” says Nick, “and I grew up playing football, soccer, lacrosse, and surfing. I never found riding all that interesting.” It was only while traveling in Europe when Nick was about 14 that he tried riding and found that he actually enjoyed it. “I told my parents to be honest and tell me if they didn’t think I had a strong future ahead,” he explains. “I said that I would like to ride, and with enough hard work and time become a top-level rider, but if that was not possible, I’d rather not waste the time and money. They haven’t told me to stop yet.” Last year in Florida, Hermès approached Nick to have him try some saddles, and asked if he would be interested in collaborating. “They had me try the Jill Medinger has a conversation with NICK DELLO JOIO Talaris saddle and asked me what I thought. They wanted to make sure I liked the product and not just the brand.” After testing saddles and agreeing to become a brand ambassador, Nick was invited to Le Saut in Paris, where EQ first met him. He has ridden in Hermès saddles at the Hamptons, Spruce Meadows, and the Gold Cup. “Hermès is not like any other company that’s a sponsor. It’s a whole different level of quality.” In 2010, Nick received the Maxine Beard award, which recognizes young talent and potential. He feels that his youth played a role in his growing relationship with Hermès. “It seems like they’re trying to find young riders and grow with them,” he notes, which he sees as unusual for a company with such a long and Photo by George Kamper for EQ at the Hermès Le Saut in Paris, 2013. established history within the sport. “To look to the future that way, I think, is really great.”
A RISING STAR
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Mark Badgley and New York’s Gold Coast country S T E E P E D I N H I S T O R Y, T H I S I DY L L I C L O C AT I O N OFFERS EQUESTRIANS A TO P - C L A S S T R A I N I N G B A R N , M I L E S O F T R A I L S , A N D A S H O RT R I D E T O M A N H AT TA N .
BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
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T H E L U R E O F LOCUST VAL L E Y, N . Y.
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t would seem quite fitting that Mark Badgley, partner in the fashion-design house of Badgley Mischka, would gradually find his way to the charming village of Locust Valley, N.Y. The north shore of Long Island, also known as the Gold Coast, is steeped in a rich history that embodies the bygone Gatsby era. Locust Valley is a hamlet of gracious mansions, secluded estates, and exclusive country clubs. Horses graze on verdant hillsides, and the thunder of polo can be heard in the distance. Some of the area’s original estates from the early 1920s have been broken up and subdivided, but many still stand, preserving the valley’s heritage of understated grandeur. Badgley Mischka is primarily known for their red carpet and evening wear and it is easily possible to envision one of Badgley Mischka’s timeless gowns sweeping across the ballroom dance floors of yesteryear. Mark Badgley and his partner James Mischka are in the company of prestigious families that once resided here. These families were not necessarily the attraction of Locust Valley, but impressive nonetheless. Familiar tycoons and political families such as Roosevelt, Vanderbilt, Morgan, Phipps, and Post had homes here as did artists and socialites, including C.Z.Guest, John Lennon, and Rudyard Kipling. Mark and James’ decision to move to Locust Valley full time was a gradual process. They owned a farm in Lexington, Ky., for five years, and a home in New York City for 30 years, and rented in the Hamptons. They even chose to rent in Locust Valley before buying to see if full-time country living was right for them. It was a culmination of circumstances that helped tip the scales. The quiet home they purchased was just minutes from Mark’s horses, trainer, favorite training barn (see Hunter’s Moon Farm, page 77), and a short, 30-mile commute to Badgley Mischka’s midtown Manhattan office. Mark grew up in Oregon and started riding horses at a very young age. The demands of college, followed by building a world-class fashion business, left him little time for horses. He eventually found his way back to his beloved passion 15 years ago and has been riding and training in the hunter ring ever since. Mark was a little apprehensive about riding again after such a long hiatus. “I missed it and I was stressed at the studio,” reflected Badgley.
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1 4 1. A black-and-white painting by EEK adds drama to the dining room. 2. Inset: Mark (right) and James. 3. The spacious, light-flooded living room. 4. Mark and Rommel in the newly built walkway. 5. An inviting wall of warmly lit blackand-white photographs.
“It took one lesson and I was immediately hooked.” He currently has two hunters: Quantos, whom he rides and shows now, and Riviera whom he leases out. He also has a couple of retired horses that live in Lexington. He finds solace at the barn. For him, it is therapeutic, calming, and a total escape. “I love the people and riding with close friends, but of course it’s always about the animal,” explained Mark. During the winter months Mark and James travel to Wellington, Fla., most weekends to participate in the plethora of winter equestrian events that take place there throughout the season. L IFE IN T HE COU N T RY
At the end of a winding, narrow, tree-lined lane edged by homes discreetly tucked into the landscape sits the carriage house of Mark and James. If one could sketch the perfect country
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Above: Exterior shot of the charming 1910 carriage house. Below: The recently restored 1940s swimming pool and gazebo.
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residence for this remarkably talented design team, it might look something like this. Originally a working carriage house built in 1910, it now feels fashionably chic without forfeiting its ties to the past. The house had been vacant for years and in need of a complete overhaul. Pairing their talents, Mark and James were able to conceptualize and execute the remodeling—doing most of the work themselves. The house sits on six acres and is positioned against the backdrop of a thicket of trees. The pool, built in the 1940s and neglected for 40 years, was also part of the restoration. The home’s interior is bright and airy, with charming architectural details. The master bedroom was once part of the hay-receiving area. The spacious room now features a cozy fireplace, a generous sitting area lined with bookshelves, and a sizeable loft office. Contemporary and traditional furnishings mix harmoniously throughout—much like the rich blend of art and black-and-white photographs displayed on the walls. Tables are ornamented with an eclectic mix of books, candles, and intriguing objets d’art. Also fitting are the visual tributes to their horses and dachshunds, who are so much a part of their lives.
MY FAVORITE HORSES are Rox Dene, the now retired Grand Hunter Champion (not mine) and my horse Brando. MY FAVORITE CAR is my white, vintage Rolls Royce Corniche.
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hortly after completing the renovation, Hurricane Sandy vented its wrath on the East Coast and caused major damage to the carriage house. Mark and James basically had to start over. They rode out the storm, realizing too late that the country lane leading to the access road was blocked by more than 50 trees. Trees, ceilings, and walls crashed in on them. They had to literally climb over 3-foot-thick tree trunks to get to the living room, and two massive fir trees caused the bedroom walls to cave in. But from the destruction came more enhancements, including replacing a long, low-ceilinged hallway with a bright, atrium-lit walkway.
EQU EST RIAN FASHION
It seemed appropriate to solicit Mark’s input on the topic of equestrian fashion—both in the ring and as everyday wear. “Equestrian apparel snakes its way into fashion and it’s coming again now,” explained Badgley. “Calvin Klein and Michael Kors practically showed authentic
equestrian wear down the runway, and I understand it. It’s incredibly flattering. Most women who like a classic style can relate to it.” When it comes to the hunter competition ring, “I’m a traditionalist. I don’t like too much experimentation and I prefer to be respectful to the sport,” Mark commented. “Everything else is so industrial and moves so fast. I think it’s charming that the horse world has this kind of heritage and is steeped in tradition.” Mark has no desire to design an equestrian clothing line. On occasion he has designed his own competition jackets, but keeping up with the 20-plus product categories at Badgley Mischka keeps his focus elsewhere. Instead, he seems loyal to wearing custom-made Hadfield jackets and Vogel and Der Dau boots. A V ISIT TO H U NTER’ S MOON B A RN
Mark’s training barn is just minutes from his house. It affords him the opportunity to spend a comfortable amount of time with his horses while managing a flourishing business in Manhattan.
Favorites
MY FAVORITE HOTELS are Villa d’Este on Lake Como (1,2), and The Point Resort in the Adirondacks (3).
MARK BADGLEY
MY FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOOD is Locust Valley, N.Y.
MY FAVORITE RESTAURANT is Raoul’s, a classic SoHo bistro in New York City.
MY FAVORITE CHARITY is the ASPCA. 1
MY FAVORITE PET is Rommel, our rescue Dachshund.
MY FAVORITE iPHONE APP is Uber, an on-demand car transportation service.
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MY FAVORITE GETAWAY is Palm Beach, Fla.
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At Hunter’s Moon Farm:1,2,3,8 Colorful landscaping accents the farm. 4. A spacious, organized tack room. 5. Jennifer Griffin, the farm’s business manager. 6. The farm includes 80 brightly lit stalls. 7. Mark Badgley with his horse Quantos. 9. A student enjoys a lesson in the outdoor arena. 10. Mark’s storage trunk at the farm.
Much like other properties in Locust Valley, Hunter’s Moon Farm has a colorful past and a promising future. The farm dates back to the 1920s and has passed ownership several times. The current owners have held the property since 1952, but it had fallen into a state of disrepair. Six years ago the owners hired Jennifer Griffin as Hunter’s Moon business manager. Her job was to transform the run-down farm into a successful training barn. From all accounts it appears that she has met with remarkable success in a short span of time. Jennifer grew up riding and loved spending time with the horses, never outgrowing them. She spent years traveling to the big horse shows, working for such equestrian champions as Ian Millar, Eric Lamaze, and Tim Grubb. Her travels took her throughout the U.S., Europe as well as to the Sydney Olympics in Australia, but after living out of a suitcase for 300 days a year, she took the plunge and accepted the business-manager offer. “It’s a challenge to take a project like this and turn it into something,” said Jennifer. “It’s been a huge learning curve, and I’ve learned so much about the business. I enjoy that I don’t have to be on the road as much.” The facilities, which now include 80 stalls, are new and impeccable. The barn’s layout mimics the original footprint of a horse-racing barn, with stalls back-to-back and a landscaped center courtyard. Unique to this barn is its setting. It is an amazingly short distance to Manhattan or the Hamptons, allowing busy commuters to fit in a ride before work or on their way to a weekend at the beach. There is a serenity at the barn that doesn’t seem possible given its proximity to the nearby hustle and bustle. The ultimate feature of this barn is its access to the adjoining Muttontown Preserve (see opposite page.) Miles of horse trails meander through 600 acres of land rich with intriguing history and romantic estate ruins—all nostalgic evidence of a bygone era. It seems country life agrees with Mark. He has an idyllic balance in his life—spending time with his horses, training and riding with friends at the barn, enjoying the social scenes of New York City and Locust Valley, and keeping up with the growing demand for the beautiful clothing and accessories of Badgley Mischka. 78 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
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MU T TO NTOW N P RESERVE The Muttontown Preserve, originally known as Knollwood, was purchased by Charles I. Hudson in 1900 for the purpose of raising his prized cattle. To house his extensive collection of art and furnishings Hudson constructed an elaborate estate ornamented with terraces, sunken gardens, and imaginative paths that wound their way through the enchanting property. The estate passed hands several times before King Zog of Albania purchased Knollwood in 1951. When U.S. immigation policies and property tax laws prevented him from setting up a planned feudal kingdom there, he abandoned the idea. Zog never visited the property and ended up selling it in 1955. For years the estate was left to deteriorate and fall victim to vandals. The final owner was Lansdell Christie, a West Point graduate and founder of the Liberia Mining Company. By then the house was derelict and had to be demolished. Most of the other structures on the estate were also torn down. Christie made vast improvements to the property, planting trees, wheat, corn, and feed grains and clearing bridle paths. Shortly after his death, Christie’s widow, determined not to sell to developers, sold or donated 550 acres to Nassau County. The area is now known as Muttontown
COURTESY OF NASSAU COUNTY MUSEUM
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Top: Knollwood entrance gates in the early 1900s. Below: The current entrance columns and gate. WINTER 2 0 1 3 | 2 0 1 4 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 79
BY ALEX TYRTEOS AND KATIE MURPHY
When Boomers Retire PHOTO KATIE MURPHY
78 MILLION BOOMERS ARE LOOKING AT WHAT’S NEXT.
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THE FIRST IN AN EQ SERIES ON PLACES TO CONSIDER.
s 78 million people born between 1946 and 1964 are scheduled to retire over the next five years, many of them are looking to move across state lines. Where will baby boomers choose to retire? Given the vastness of this demographic, a mere three-tenths of one percent of relocating boomers has the potential to add $1 billion per year in new income to a host community’s economy. Increasingly, the target relocation destination has been the southeast United States, specifically the Carolinas and Florida. The first survey in 10 years commissioned by the Consumer Federation of the Southeast
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The Willcox Inn embodies southern hospitality at its finest, and hosts a restaurant and spa frequented by guests and Aiken residents.
(CFS) confirms that a number of factors favor South Carolina. The 2011 survey of over a 1,000 adults between the ages of 47 and 65 living in the eastern half of the country confirmed that the vast majority were considering moving to another state when they retire, that the majority would make the move regardless of the state of the economy, and that they would purchase a retirement property. The survey concluded that people choose their destination based on a specific list of factors: warm climate, cost of housing, taxes, access to quality healthcare, opportunity for recreation, culture and learning, and a mid-size community.
Aiken is a Southeast community that appears to match all these criteria. The climate is warm and frost-free but seasonally varied. It is affordable, with typical home prices around $250,000 and annual property taxes averaging only $1,500. Good healthcare facilities are offered by several University of South Carolina hospitals and the Medical College of Georgia. Culturally, the colleges and the Aiken Center for the Arts offer classes, exhibits, and events. For recreation, there are amenities for every equestrian discipline, as well as multiple world-class golf courses. To top it all, Aiken is a mid-size town with a professional mix of
The hunting community is vibrant in Aiken and offers great sport and comradery among equestrian and hunt enthusiasts.
educated residents from industry and academia. The multidisciplinary horse culture has generated a plethora of tack stores, veterinarians, trainers, and breeders. These equine resources have made Aiken increasingly a location of choice for boomers who want horses as part of their retirement lives. Aiken’s historic downtown common is reminiscent of an earlier time, when neighbors greeted one another and strangers offered warm smiles and friends relaxed with sweet tea and cobbler in the shade of a magnolia tree. Today, Aiken is a dynamic community, steeped in history, yet poised for a future of growth. WINTER 2 0 1 3 | 2 0 1 4 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 81
Founded in 1835 by William Aiken, a railroad president and a leading cotton merchant, the town served as a pass-through for railroad travel. It quickly became a destination for wealthy Northerners attracted to the area for the milder winters and abundant sport opportunities. Today, Aiken remains a tourist destination, seasonal getaway, and year-round home to a large population of equestrians of all disciplines and ages. John Abbott of Bridlewood Farm enjoyed Aiken seasonally for many years before calling it home. He says, “The town is sophisticated, yet still small. You see people you know almost every day.” Quiet dirt roads, polo fields, show rings, and racetracks nestle into the pines between tasteful mansions. Foxhunters, eventers, drivers, dressage riders, polo players, and hunter-jumper riders enjoy Aiken for the consistent footing, climate, and endless possibilities for showing, schooling, and learning from some of the nation’s most talented equestrians. The Aiken Triple Crown is an example of the unique variety of horse sports in the area. It is a long-standing series of events that includes racing, steeplechase, and polo. Ushering in the season every spring, it’s a highlight of the Aiken social calendar, offering tailgating, reserved seating, and catered luncheons with crowds of well-dressed spectators looking classic and chic. For each event, a different assembly of trainers, owners, and viewers gather to appreciate horsemanship, tradition, and the weather. Two recent transplants to Aiken spoke with EQ. Their experiences may help guide boomers examining their own relocation options. KATHIE ROBERTS (56) was a federal agent
for 31 years, stationed in Los Angeles and Denver, and active as a triathlete and club polo player. Tiring of large cities and commuting, she retired at 50 and started her relocation search. Her criteria were a warm climate, good horse footing, affordable prices, and polo nearby. She shortlisted Aiken, Vero Beach, Fla., and
AIKEN, SC
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AV E R AG E J A N UA RY DAY1
AV E R AG E J U LY DAY1
MONTHS OF COMFORTABLE RIDING1
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HORSINESS INDEX 4
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Sarasota, Fla. On two separate visits to Aiken, she saw 40 farms and decided to purchase a farm on 13 acres for $350,000. Having sold her Boulder, Co., home and converted her pension into a 401k, she moved herself and her horses to Aiken to develop her parcel, which included clearing, fencing, and adding a barn, investing an additional $450,000. Kathie met her partner, Chuck Wright, a former Vietnam helicopter pilot and banker, in Aiken. They found their calling in operating a seasonal rental business that provides accommodation to visiting riders and their mounts, including both three-day eventers and polo players coming to Aiken for several months a year to condition and compete. Far from being retired, Kathie has stayed active with the polo, the rentals, and taking classes. During the hottest months, they take trips to the ocean for shrimping and crabbing, or go hiking in the mountains (both only two hours away). She has no regrets about her move and feels that Aiken exceeded her expectations. Kathie enjoys the sociability of the horse community, loves the informality and pet-friendliness of the town, and thrives on volunteerism and fund raising for the local SPCA. KIM SNIDER (50) ran a successful fund-
management business based in Dallas while also hosting a financial talk show, writing a book (How to be Your Family CFO), and advising
clients on personal investment for retirement. Her investment savvy allowed her to take early retirement in 2000 and start planning her relocation. Her major considerations were to find a medium-sized community resembling her East Texas childhood home, one that would be horse-friendly and where she could resume her polo playing, which was interrupted while she built her business. She was also seeking a more temperate climate than Texas, good digital connectivity that would allow her to continue to work remotely, and, importantly, property values that fit her budget. Her plan was to purchase significant land (50+plus acres) and build a compound including a plantation home, barn, office building, clubhouse, and polo field. On a scouting tour to Aiken in 2004, she instantly decided it was the right place, and within two years she found her ideal 50-acre property, paying $8,000 per acre. She subsequently expanded this to 170 acres, but, due to the economic downturn, she scaled back her investment to $3 million. Kim and her husband, Jim, have an active lifestyle on their Aiken compound—a blur of pleasurable activities, as she puts it. Having started three other lifestyle businesses centered on instructional how-to videos, Kim works remotely from her barn office with colleagues around the world. In addition to resuming polo at the next-door Broken Arrow Polo Club, she is dabbling in dressage and fox hunting. Just like Kathie, Kim says that Aiken has exceeded her expectations in terms of sociability and amenities, and she gets pleasure from finding real artisans that can still repair things. Both of these two successful boomer transplants have the same words of advice to those who follow: “Have a plan, compare alternatives that meet your criteria, and test the lifestyle first by visiting and renting before buying.” All in all, for a vacation, a winter getaway, or as a new hometown, Aiken definitely deserves a look.
E Q V I S I T S A I KEN WHERE TO STAY True to Southern tradition, there are several charming hotels and inns within Aiken. Conveniently located near the center of town, here are a few establishments that stand out above the rest: • Voted one of the best hotels in the world, the Willcox Inn embodies Southern hospitality at its finest and hosts a restaurant and spa frequented by both guests and Aiken residents. • Renowned as a legendary historic winter-colony estate, Rose Hill
embodies timeless elegance. The expansive gardens, outdoor spaces, and hotel encompass an entire block. • In the heart of the common, the Hotel Aiken is well known for its convenient location to many shops, restaurants, and activities. WHERE TO EAT • Winner of many specialty awards, Davor’s Cafe offers fare of exceptional quality, ranging from cer tified angus beef to select seafood. Their
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wine menu has 100-plus selections, and a diverse array of mar tinis, hot spirited drinks, and single malts. • Malia’s refined elegance is welcoming to all palates. An array of dishes made from organic and all-natural ingredients encompasses a hint of Southern style. • Sited within the historic common, Prime Steakhouse specializes in the finest aged steaks, lobster, and fresh seafood. Black Angus or primegraded, meats are dry-aged in house.
WHERE TO SHOP • Equine Divine is a chic boutique with beautiful clothing and accessories with an equestrian theme. • Oak Manor Saddlery offers everything riders might need. • Plum Pudding is a delightful culinary boutique with an array of styles and designs for the aspiring gourmand. • Lionel Smith Ltd offers the finest in men’s fashion for all ages and interests.
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1. Winner of many specialty awards, Davor’s offers fare of exceptional quality ranging from certified Angus beef to select seafood. Their wine menu has 100-plus selections, and they also serve a diverse array of martinis, hot spirited drinks, and premium single malts; 2. John Abbott; 3. Kathie Roberts; 4. Kim Snider; 5. The South Boundry, Aiken’s lush avenue of oaks; 6. Horse Show in the Woods—an historic show that is unique to Aiken, sited within the Hitchcock Woods Foundation.
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Mary Sue Jacobs Destiny International Properties
TOP 1% OF THE NATION IN SALES
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561.791.2501 • 561.758.5212 • Fax: 561.791.0949 Wellington
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Stunning 10 ac farm with 22 stalls, 2 huge living quarters with 4 bedrooms each, Granite kitchens fully updated, 4-car garage, gated, fenced, Grand Prix size grass jump field. One-of-a-kind, beautifully built, with under ground drainage system, generator and much, much more. Room for indoor arena. By appointment ONLY
Like-new, beautiful 4BR, 4BA home with brand new 7-stall CBS center-aisle barn, brand new oversized dressage/jump ring. Plenty of paddock space, on the bridle trail, close to the showgrounds. House has all the upgrades, fantastic kitchen, granite, marble and wood floors, summer kitchen. Call Marysue 561.791.2501
$2.5 Million
$1.6 million
Palm Beach Polo
Paddock Park II
Amazing Rentals, Farms, Barns, Houses & Condos. Seasonal or Year-round. Call for pricing and availability
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4 bedroom 4 bath gorgeous home on large lot, fenced yard, golf course view, designer decorated, pool, gourmet kitchen. Call Norma Valentine: 561.635.9296
Magnificent farm near horse show, totally remodeled, 4/3 with brand new 8-stall center aisle barn, new dressage ring, grass jump ring, guest house pool, 2 acres.
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Wellington
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Palm Beach Point
Location, Location, Location PRIME 15 acres close to horse show and POLO with two houses. $6 million
Palm Beach Polo
Like new model home, fully furnished, in the Equestrian Club of Wellington. Pool, amazing kitchen, 5bd, gym, 4-car garage, lake view. All the extras!
One of the largest pieces of land left in Wellington, Hack to show grounds, 21.25 acres. Build your very own Equestrian Dream Estate. 3 separate lots. Call Norma Valentine 561.635.9296 or Marysue Jacobs 561.791.2501
Charming 3/3 Palm Beach Polo rare double lot with lovely pool, spa and lake view. A fenced-in back yard of heaven and privacy. House has been totally updated and will not disappoint. Marble floors, granite countertops.
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25 years experience in Equestrian & Luxury Estates, Land, Investments, Rentals
Conserving the Land Three farms, three visions: Living and loving CONSERVED HORSE PROPERTIES
T
he open meadows, barns, and stone walls of equestrian properties are archetypes of the New England countryside. When these properties are protected by conservation easements, they are safe from development forever. However, it takes more than landscape, buildings, and conservation guarantees to create a truly special legacy. It requires the passion of owners who can imagine the potential of a property and work to make their dreams an enduring reality. Of course, another benefit is that donated easements currently can qualify for significant federal income tax deductions and, in some states, additional income-tax credits or property-tax reductions. Three conserved equestrian properties show how their owners’ vision, and love of horses and landscape combine to create inspiring legacies: BU I L D I N G O N A C O N S E RVAT I ON LEGACY
Stephen and Lynn Browne have long been leaders of the Norfolk Hunt Club of Massachusetts, one of the oldest registered drag 86 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
KATHIE DAVENPORT (KMDPHOTOS.COM)
BY CHRISTOPHER RODSTROM AND RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH
The Norfolk Hunt Club in Medfield, Mass.
hunts in the United States. In the Norfolk Hunt, “two-legged foxes” lay down a scent trail for hounds to follow through pastures and woodlands, over country open to the hunt, because of the kindness of local landowners. As development encroached, Stephen and Lynn Browne committed themselves to conserving land for the hunt and the public. The Brownes led by example when, in 1994, they donated a conservation easement on their Pinecroft Farm in Medfield. Fittingly for stewards of a longstanding tradition, they donated the easement to the oldest conservation group of its kind, The Trustees of Reservations, founded four years before the Hunt in 1891. The Browne’s beautiful horse farm is close to the center of the town, yet is exceptionally private and quiet, thanks to the protected land that surround the house, barn, and riding areas. Twenty years after their original gift, they donated two additional conservation easements on adjoining land, creating a remarkable protected landscape in the historic center of Medfield. “We were thrilled to be able to add on to the original conservation easement when we acquired the abutting properties,” said Stephen, “and our experience with the first easement made us comfortable going ahead with additional protection.”
ST EWARDSH I P O F A G EM
When Brian Knez pulled up to Uphill Farm’s big red barns and clapboard farmhouse under ancient maple trees, over a dozen years ago, he didn’t have to think very hard about whether the farm was right for him. “It took less than a second, ” he laughs, “and we’ve loved it here. There are so few places that have such a complete sense of place. This is Vermont. It couldn’t be anywhere else, and it’s perfect.” Uphill Farm has always been a jewel in the iconic community of Woodstock, Vt., and stewardship has been high on the priorities of its owners. The previous owner, Eric Stahl, worked with Vermont Land Trust to conserve the high meadows above the farm, while retaining flexibility for the property and everyday uses around the main farm complex. “It is key to a potential buyer that the easement makes sense for the use of the property. The easement on this property was well-designed. It protects what needs protecting, but doesn’t overreach.” The Knezs upgraded the equestrian facilities to include heated, copper-lined stalls in the main barn, and an outdoor arena that, in a nod to Vermont vernacular, repurposed the sugar house as a viewing room. Continued on page 88
JOHN BELLENIS
way that is now almost impossible with the loss of open land. There were definitely glitches—the easement was really designed for raising cattle, not horses, but we’ve worked through it, and are delighted to see so many folks enjoying the place.” Meredith and her team have created a vast cross-country course, using the varied terrain to create challenges for new and experienced eventers alike, with long gallops, up to 360-degree views to Boston to the east, and Mount Monadnock to the west. Whether protecting acres of trails for a hunt, restoring a Vermont farm, or building a new equestrian center from a former cattle farm, these visionaries have demonstrated how to combine their love of horses with conservation to create a legacy of beautiful places.
On a rare open 134 acres in Groton, Mass., Scarlet Hill Farm was a prominent Black Angus cattle farm that nearly became a residential subdivision. If not for the concerted effort of the town, neighbors, and conservation organizations to buy and protect the land, the beautiful open drumlins would have been developed. With the property permanently conserved and listed for sale, Meredith Scarlet walked the land and was smitten. The varied terrain perfectly fit her vision for a major combined-training facility, offering schooling, competitions, lessons, training, and boarding. (see scarlethillfarm.com). Conservation of the property has created a rare opportunity, and the town’s investment in the property has led to great local affection for the farm and its new owner. “Without the easement we would have been competing with developers,” said Meredith, “so I’m glad the investment in conserving the land was made just in time. My dream was always to create a community and regional resource for riders to come and experience open country in a
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JOHN BELLENIS
A L A N D M A R K FARM AS A C O M M U N I T Y RESOURCE
Top: Uphill Farm has always been a jewel in the iconic community of Woodstock, Vt., and stewardship has been high on the priorities of its owners. Above: Meredith Sacrlet and a student at Scarlet Hill Farm in Groton, Mass.
Ruth Kennedy Sudduth is a principal of LandVest, and directs the firm’s Residential Brokerage Division. She specializes in complex properties, often with conservation, historic or architectural importance. Chris Rodstrom works with LandVest buyers and sellers and also specializes in properties with historic qualities and working with buyers or sellers of real estate protected with conservation easements.
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Continued from page 64
The Reining First Family Mandy runs on boundless energy and seems integral to every aspect of the family’s reining horse business. She was able to rattle off every horse’s name and notable information about them during our tour of the stalls, rehabilitation facilities, and training arena. W H Y R E I N I N G?
Tom gave us a little McCutcheon family background before answering some of our questions. He grew up with horses. His dad was in the horse business when there was no money. “He just loved horses, so we did everything,” Tom said. “We did cutting, showed pleasure horses, rode barrel, and roped horses. Basically, it was everything you could do in a western saddle.” Tom went out on his own when he was 18 and knew he didn’t want anything to do with cattle. It seemed to him that reining was going to have the greatest growth. “For once I guessed right,” Tom explained. “Reining has been the fastest growing of all the western disciplines by far and away, and it’s really prospering. I feel really fortunate to be in the business right now.” “The Futurity in Oklahoma, held in December, is like our Super Bowl,” added Tom. “Young horses and people come from all over the world. It will be a sell-out crowd at the Oklahoma City fairgrounds. It is the one time where it seems like our whole industry comes together.” Given some of the hefty prices recently paid for hunter jumper horses, we asked how the value of reining horses compared. “I can tell you a horse recently sold for $800,000 and that there have been private deals higher than that. We are gaining, but we aren’t in the hunter jumper stratosphere,” said Tom. The McCutcheon clientele used to be from small farms that did reining as a hobby. It was a rural clientele. “Now it’s more of an urban set that want to do something different and can afford to play at a higher level,” explained Tom. “There are a few prominent A-listers getting
94 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
Tom McCutcheon at work in his office overlooking the riding arena.
into the business.” Their celebrity names remain unmentioned. For someone transitioning into reining, it’s important to find trainers who are reputable. See who is close to you, ask a lot of questions, and find out who takes excellent care of their horses. Tom assured us there are good trainers all over the country and reining horses are found on both coasts, but, he added, “If you are looking for reining breeders, you should probably come to Texas.” Reining is flourishing in the U.S. and in the international arena. Some of that growth in popularity must be credited to NRHA Hall of Famers: the McCutcheons, the McQuays, and their horses. Their combined accomplishments and commitment to the sport have broadened the interest and expanded participation in the sport of reining by leaps and bounds. PAGE 96.
T H E R EIN IN G ROYALS T IM AND COL L EEN M cQUAY
TOM AN D MA NDY Mc C U TC H EO N
Tim has won every major National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) sanctioned event and is a NRHA Hall of Famer. He became the first ever $2-million rider in the NRHA history and was the NRHA alltime leading money earner for an incredible 11 years. He has earned gold medals as a team rider for the U.S. reining team in Aachen, Germany, in 2006 and in Lexington, Ky., in 2010, among a bevy of other awards. Colleen serves on the board of several equestrian associations. She is a founding board member of the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA), serving with the team who created the International Hunter Derby and the Pre-Green Incentive Program. She also served on the board and executive committee of the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), creating the show rating system, show stewards program and the foal nomination program modeled after the National Reining Breeders Classic, (NRBC). She continues to be par t of the team that developed the NRBC, a breeder’s classic program and show that produces the second highest added-money reining event in the industry, paying over $1 million. In addition, she serves on the United States Equestrian Foundation (USEF) board and is a founding board member of USA Reining.
Tom serves on the USEF high performance reining committee, and currently is on the executive committee of the NRHA. His victories include the National Reining Breeder’s Classic Open Championship, two National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Derby Reserve Championships, the Tradition Open Futurity and the Southwest Reining Horse Association Open Futurity. He is a many-time finalist at every major NRHA event. He was a member of the 2003 USA Reining Team that won the team gold medal at the World Equestrian Games, won two gold medals at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, and was also part of gold-medal winning Team USA. Tom was also USEF Rider of the Year and his gold-medal horse, Gunners Special Nite, bred and raised by the McQuays, was USEF horse of the year. In addition to Mandy’s reining awards, she was amateur/owner hunter champion seven out of nine times throughout the country, winner of the High Jumper Classic in Culpepper, Va., and earned high amateur classic wins in the Indio, Calif., circuit and the Kentucky Spring Horse Show series.
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Resources
Look for the EQ+ symbol throughout the magazine to find out about featured places, products, and services. STYLE/ Jewelry Page 16 Bennett Fine Jewelry 480-585-3080 bennettfinejewelry.com Hoorsensbuhs 888-692-2997 hoorsenbuhs.com Roberto Coin robertocoin.com Van Dell 561-753-7937 vandell@msn.com vandell.com SCIENCE Page 20 Hidez Travel and Recovery Suits Windsor, Australia +61 2 4577 8550 sales@hidez.com.au hidez.com.au/ FASHION / Barn Coats Page 22 Dappled Grey dappledgrey.com molly@dappledgrey.com Barbour 603-673-1313 info.na@Barbour.com barbour.com Belstaff 866-925-3563 belstaff.com Joules joules.com STYLE / Dog Accessories Page 28 Mungo & Maud London, England mungoandmaud.com Pet Lounge Studios 561-228-5168 petloungestudios.com Coach www.coach.com Doca Pet 312-493-7707 info@docapet.com docapet.com/ GIVING BACK / Angel Heart Farm Page 30 Angel Heart Farm 615-566-4976 angelheartfarm.net FAVORITES / Alpacas Page 34 www.EQmag.us/alpacas Parris Hill 802-484-3200 leys@parrishillfarm.com parrishillfarm.com
FAVORITES / Dog Mountain Page 40 143 Parks Rd. Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819 dogmt.gallery@gmail.com dogmt.com THE ART OF WINES AND EQUINES Page 46 14 Hands Winery Paterson, WA 800-301-0773 info@14hands.com 14hands.com Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery Woodinville, WA 425-488-1133 info@ste-michelle.com ste-michelle.com Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard and Horse Rescue Baiting Hollow, NY 631 369 0100 baitinghollowfarmvineyard. com Black Stallion Estate Winery Napa, CA 707-227-3250 info@blackstallionwinery.com blackstallionwinery.com Farrier Wine Company Healdsburg, CA info@farrierwines.com farrierwines.com Murrieta’s Well Livermore, CA 925-456-2395 murrietaswell.com The Saratoga Winery Saratoga Springs, NY 518-584-WINE thesaratogawinery.com Swedish Hill Winery Romulus, NY 607-403-0029 info@swedishhill.com swedishhill.com Wild Horse Winery and Vineyards Templeton, CA 805-788-6310 wildhorsewinery.com Women, Wine & Equine womenwineandequine.com REINING IN TEXAS Page 50 K Bar J Leather Company Chaps by Jack Gully 605-456-1332 kjleather@sdplains.com kbarjleather.com
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Texas Traditions in Austin Boots by Lee and Carrlyn Miller 512-443-4447 Hamilton Shirts 713-264-8800 info@hamiltonshirts.com hamiltonshirts.com Danny and Ron’s Rescue 803-900-9800 saverstrays@aol.com dannyandronrescue.com Lucky Paint Custom Shirts Brianna Sloan 432-290-3000 National Reining Horse Association 405-946-7400 nrha1.com American Quarter Horse Association 806-376-4811 aqha.com McQuay Stables 940-437-2470 mcquaystables@hdunit.com mcquaystables.com Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses, Inc. 940-566-3686 tcutch1@gte.net tmccutcheon.com TEXAS DIARY Page 66 Mom’s on Main 940-202-4940 momsonmain.com Joule Hotel 214-748-1300 info@thejouledallas.com thejouledallas.com The Great Southwest Equestrian Center 281-578-7669 gswec.com Rainbow Lodge 713-861-8666 rainbow-lodge.com Airport Rangers fly2houston.com/ airportrangers BARN DOGS / Pig Rescue Page 98 Farm Sanctuary Watkins Glen, NY 607-583-2225 farmsanctuary.org Janice Skura’s Pig Rescue Huntington, NY 516-524-2253 pigs4me.weebly.com
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Barn Dogs For this issue, we’ve expanded the definition of a Barn Dog. Meet Wilbur, GEORGINA BLOOMBERG’S rescued pet pig.
BRIAN SMITH
AS TOLD TO C. W. MEDINGER
I
rescued Wilbur from a Bergen County, N.J., animal shelter. After hurricane Sandy, I volunteered there because of the overwhelming number of homeless animals left by the storm. They introduced me to Wilbur the pig, and explained that they were uncertain of where he came from or his background. I learned that there are many pigs that need to be rescued. It seems that people often buy cute little piglets as pets, and then drop them off at rescues or send them to slaughter because—surprise—they grow up into full-sized pigs. The woman who ran the pound was paying from her own pocket to keep Wilbur alive while she waited for the right home. Although she had offers from upstate farms to take him, she realized that he was more of a pet than a farm animal. She could tell that he wanted love, and shouldn’t be sent off to a farm. 98 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2013 | 2014
It’s nap time for Wilbur in his cozy pig bedroom. Wilbur and his friend Hugo head out to the barn.
I knew absolutely nothing about pigs; I never wanted a pig. But after I met Wilbur, I thought, OK, I can give this a shot. I have space. If he wants to live in a barn he can live with the horses, and if he wants to be a pet he can live inside with the dogs and me. Now Wilbur has his bed in his own little “pig room” at my home. He comes to the barn in the morning, and then goes back to the house and takes his nap before dinner.
He’s completely housebroken and has never had an accident in the house—something I can’t say for my dogs! He never digs in the garden like you’d expect. He’s cleaner, better-behaved, and lower maintenance than any of my dogs. Wilbur is incredibly smart, very charismatic, and makes us laugh every day. He even wags his tail when he’s happy. We held an ASPCA Adoption Day at the Hampton Classic to get the word out about rescuing pigs. If you’d like to know more, there are many pig rescue organizations around the country. Two of my favorites are are farmsanctuary.org and Janice Skura’s Pig Rescue. Anyone looking for a fun pet should consider a pig. They’re an especially good option for people who have allergies to cats or dogs. For me, having a pig was a great surprise! Wilbur’s been a great addition to my family. P.96 FOR GEORGINA’S FAVORITE PIG RESCUES
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