THE PREMIER MAGAZINE
EQ
E Q U E S T R I A N Q U A R T E R LY
WINTER 2014 | 2015
EQ
OF COUNTRY LIFE
$6.95 | $7.95 CAN
AMERICA’S YOUNG RIDERS
WINTER 2014 | 2015
DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 10, 2015
MEET LILLIE KEENAN AT HOME WITH CHESTER WEBER EQ VISITS SCOTTSDALE
P L US : T HE S P ORT OF DRI VI NG | PEOPLE | STY LE | FASH IO N | DE C O R | A RTS
Andy Scott sculpts from steel and clay. The clay artworks are cast in bronze while his distinctive steelwork is welded and galvanised. The unforgiving steel plate is shaped, chopped and welded by hand to create dynamic living forms which are alive with energy. Clydesdales, Friesians, Cobs, and Arabians are among the breeds to rise from the sparks and flames of his studio, each creating an impressive sense of place at their eventual location. His largest works to date are the colossal 100 ft high “Kelpies” heads, in Scotland, now an internationally recognised icon. Andy’s equine works have received numerous accolades and awards, and his client base includes civic, corporate and private collectors around the world. For enquiries please contact: hanneke@scottsculptures.co.uk
ANDY SCOTT EQUINE SCULPTOR www.scottsculptures.co.uk www.thekelpies.co.uk
EQ I N S I D E
Features WINT E R | 2014 | 2015 IS SUE
46
YO U N G R I D E R S : T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N Parents and young riders alike are discovering that a childhood that includes horses can change a life forever.
48
LILLIE KEENAN Champion show jumper Lillie Keenan shares some wisdom on what it takes to compete at the highest level while maintaining academic excellence.
56
F U T U R E S TA R S Up-and-coming young champions talk about life with horses, and what being an equestrian means to them.
60
T H E E XC I T I N G S P O R T O F C A R R I AG E D R I V I N G Long associated with the refinement of the Gilded Age, different types of driving offer something for everyone.
62
AT H O M E W I T H CHESTER WEBER This four-in-hand-champion driver speaks candidly about his passion for the sport, his vision for the future, and the importance of humility.
70
A V I S I T W I T H M A RY S TO K E S WA L L E R The Waller’s Orleton farm in New England pays homage to the rich history and tradition of carriage driving.
82
THE ENDURING HORSE FORMS O F S T E P H A N I E R E V E N N AU G H Stephanie Revennaugh’s quietly mysterious sculptures bring the spirit of the horse to life.
86
S C OT T S DA L E , A R I ZO N A Known as the West’s Most Western Town, Scottsdale balances an appealing mix of contemporary culture, entertainment, and activities, while preserving its rich heritage of equestrian sport.
Eileen Rockefeller masterfully drives her team along the famous Rockefeller Roads in Seal Harbor, Maine.
GEORGE KAMPER
74
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EQ I N S I D E
Departments WINTE R | 2014 | 2015 ISS U E
12 E D I TO R ’ S N OT E
18
FA S H I O N Apparel designers pony up a plethora of fashion options for young riders.
14
GIFT GUIDE Make someone happy with any (or all) of these unique gift ideas for your horse-loving friends and family.
26
PEOPLE Meimei Zhu, a rising Chinese equestrian show jumper, shares her storybook ending at the China National Games.
28
FAVO R I T E S Discover how Sgt. Reckless, America’s famous war horse, became a national hero.
32
H E A LT H Does your horse prefer to wear a blanket? A new study indicates that he can tell you.
36 G I V I N G B AC K Accomplished show jumper, model, and businesswoman, Hannah Selleck, talks about her experience as a JustWorld ambassador.
38 T H E L I O N ’ S R OA R Peter Leone offers advice for young riders just getting started, and suggests “what questions to ask” as they advance in their sport.
22
40 S C I E N C E
STYLE
42
DÉCOR Decorating options abound to create a perfect horsey haven for pony kids.
Raise the bar this year while serving an abundance of good cheer with equestrianinspired barware.
New research reveals how youth who work with horses experience reduced stress hormone levels.
110
RESOURCES (Look for
to find the products and services in this issue.)
114
BARN DOG ON THE COVER Lillie Keenan shot on location at Heritage Farm in Katonah, N.Y., by EQ Photo Director George Kamper. Lillie is wearing Hermès’ Jump Women’s Breech in sahara, Team Polo, in feu-navy, Etriviere Belt in noir, and Bangles. Boots by Parlanti.
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Journey, the standard poodle service dog, was a welcome life changer for equestrian Sydney Collier.
Welcome EQ F R O M T H E E D I T O R
T Eileen Rockefeller, left, and EQ Editor Stephanie Peters talk about carriage driving while walking along the famed Rockefeller Roads in Seal Harbor, Maine.
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he holidays often create a sense of urgency. We all take to the Internet or local shops in search of the elusive holiday grail— the ultimate gift. We imagine the recipient delighted with our selection and expressing the same uninhibited joy as a child unwrapping his first bicycle. As I read through this issue, I was reminded of the immense scope, history, and transformative power of horses. It became evident that time spent with a horse is truly the ultimate gift. Horses inspire artists and writers, they go to battle for us in war and in the competition ring, and they dole out a litany of lessons about ourselves. In “Young Riders” (page 46), we introduce you to up-and-coming riders who are just discovering the joy and fulfillment that horses and equestrian sports offer. What most young riders experience—and unanimously consider to be the greatest gift of riding—is the camaraderie, respect, and support that is part of a life with horses. You’ll also meet accomplished young riders such as Lillie Keenan who have already earned rising-star status. Lillie sheds some light on how she balances her rigorous training schedule with academics. Children’s relationships with horses typically transition from the “I want a pony” stage to spending countless hours training at the barn and competing at shows. And it doesn’t end with youth. The duration of the respect for horses and the ability to participate in equestrian sport is the gift that continues to give. For example, David Rockefeller, who most likely began his history with horses with a pony (or two), continues to drive his team of Morgans at the vibrant age of 99 (page 76). In “The Exciting Sport of Carriage Driving” (page 60), combined-driving champion Chester Weber dispels the myth that driving is what you do when you can no longer ride. He is committed to mentoring young riders who have embraced the sport. Twenty-one-year-old
Jacob Arnold (page 56), already has a driving career that is on a fast track, while David Rockefeller and countless other driving enthusiasts continue to participate in this steeped-in-tradition sport throughout their lives. We also had the pleasure of spending some relaxing time with Chester, his wife My, and their new son Douglas at their beautiful home at Live Oak Stud in Ocala, Florida. I think you’ll enjoy the visit! ESCAPE TH E C O L D
This is the time of year when those of us living in cold climates and enduring dreary reports of the polar vortex decide to travel to warmer places. Scottsdale, Arizona, is an idyllic choice. The roughnecks and barroom brawls, once synonymous with the old West, have given way to a sophisticated mélange of cultural venues, resorts, shopping, and more. Horses, a mainstay of Scottsdale’s heritage, retain their celebrity status—none more so than the Arabian horse. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the hospitality and generosity of the people we met while attending last year’s Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. Holli Gallún, a long-time resident of Scottsdale, took the EQ team under her wing and helped us navigate through the immense show and introduce us to some of Scottsdale’s top Arabian breeders. It seemed fitting that she should write our introduction to “Scottsdale.” WHAT ’ S A H EA D
Luckily, here at EQ we’ll be finding some respite from the cold while preparing a feature on Southern Pines, North Carolina. We will also be talking to some of the top competitors in eventing, learning landscape design from industry leaders, and much, much more. I wish you good cheer for the holidays and the new year!
EQ G I F T G U I D E
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GIFT SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR HORSE-LOVING FRIENDS
A REAL bed for your dogs, made of powder-coated steel, welded in our Wellington, Fla., shop. Now you can get that dogs’ bed off the floor so you can clean and vacuum under it. Available in three sizes, any color, for your home, patio or barn. The companion dog bowl holder is available in four sizes, any color, and holds two or three bowls. We’ve been using one of these for years and they are very user and dog friendly! Dog bowl holders start at $250 Dog bed holders start at $275 561-753-9737 thevandellcollection.com
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THE TROTTER HOBO
THE GALLOP COLLECTION
Dressage is the highest level of equestrian spor ts and the Bridal Collection defines these traits of elegance and timeless style. Handmade in Florence, Italy, the Bridle collection is inspired by the rich heritage of bridle making. The styles feature hand-beaded, handrubbed handles and the finest European vegetabletanned leather.
The Gallop Collection takes the classic allure of equestrian motif and updates it with the feminine touch so iconic to Gumuchian. The jewelry is crafted in Manhattan and designed by women for women with ideals of comfor t and elegance in mind. Ring details: Style #R821Y, 18kt Gold & Diamond Gallop Ring
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$2,700 Available at Lewis Jewelers, 1141 Uptown Park Blvd, Houston, Texas 281-204-0555 Gumuchian.com
EQ W I N T E R 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5
THE INDUSTRY LEADERS IN HORSE PRODUCTS AND WATERING HAVE TEAMED UP TO BRING YOU...
EQUESTRIAN
®
Q U A R T E R L Y
VOLUME 3 NUMBER 4 EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters DEPUTY EDITOR Jill B. Novotny 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 CONTRIBUTORS Viki Nelson Bodoh, Holli Gallún, Amanda Garner, Steve Holm, Peter Leone, Renee Spurge, Betsy Stein, Rachel Webber INTERN Aubr y Buzek PUBLISHER C . W. Medinger GLOBAL PARTNER PUBLICATION: Horsemanship, Beijing, China
A FRESH IDEA ON WATERING Classic Equine knows horses and horse people. Ritchie invented automatic watering. Together they have designed the watering solutions you’ve been waiting for. Classic Equine by Ritchie makes automatic watering the only way to go for the ease of horse owners and the health of horses.
ADVERTISING SALES NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Linda Andersen, 978-807-7640, andersen@equestrianquar terly.com EAST, Melissa Rettig, 703-210-0122, rettig@equestrianquar terly.com SOUTHEAST, Christian Palmer, 612-618-8216, palmer@equestrianquar terly.com WEST, Dick Holcomb, 770-740-7120, dickholc@bellsouth.net CALIFORNIA, Rodney Brooks, 510-695-5254, brooks@equestrianquar terly.com CONSULTANT George Fuller NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Teri Combs, RCS Magazines, Richard Trummer, Cur tis Circulation Co. EQ ADVISORY BOARD Bob Cacchione, Founder IHSA Katja Eilders, FEI Master German Classical Dressage Deborah Deutsch, Polo, Beverly Hills, Calif. Melissa Ganzi, Polo, Wellington, Fla. Peter Leone, Lionshare Farm, Greenwich, Conn. Colleen and Tim McQuay, Reining, Tioga, Texas Mindy Peters, Arabians, Los Alamos, Calif. Chris Pratt, Hunter Jumper West, Los Angeles, Calif. Renee Spurge, LA Saddler y, Los Angeles, Calif. Chester Weber, Combined Driving, Ocala, Fla. 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 at equestrianquar terly.com/subscribe or EQ, Box One, Brownsville, VT 05037. To purchase past issues or for a list of newsstands offering EQ, visit www.equestrianquar terly.com/where-to-buy Subscription management and address changes: www.equestrianquar terly.com/manage-subscription Editorial inquiries and letters to the editor : info @ equestrianquar terly.com WYNNWOOD MEDIA LLC 41 East 11th Street, 11th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10003 © 2014. All rights reser ved, Wynnwood Media, LLC . No por tion may be reproduced in print or online without written permission. ® Equestrian Quar terly and EQ are registered trademarks of Wynnwood Media.
Classic Equine by Ritchie product line coming soon to a retailer near you. Contact 1-800-654-7864 for more information.
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EQ was chosen OVERALL BEST EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE in its inaugural year by American Horse Publications.
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EQ F A S H I O N
CHIC OPTIONS FOR RISING STARS
ADELINDE CORNELISSEN
Apparel designers pony up STYLE AND PENACHE for young riders.
BY RENEE SPURGE
W
hen I was a young rider (and I am not going to say how long ago that was), zippers and calf-skin leather boots did not exist, helmets were made only of velvet, and tweed was the acceptable color of choice. I was competing at dressage shows all over California, and the clothing options were few and far between. My Pikeur fullseat breeches and show coats had to be special-ordered from
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Both models are wearing ANIMO’S LAGOS Shadbelly jacket; PAK TOPLINE fabric competition shirt; HABY leather belt, and ZICO leather boots.
Europe, and I had to break in new custom Vogel’s almost every six months, which led to a permanent collection of blisters and bruises from my ankles to my knees! Luckily for young riders today, there is a plethora of apparel options across all riding disciplines. In fact, I can account for many occasions when women customers get attached to a youngrider shirt or breech and ask, “Does this come in my size?” For everyday wear Goode Rider has one of the most fashionable collection of girls’ riding apparel. The girls’ Horsebit Jean is downright adorable, and the Iconic Polo, which is
EQ F A S H I O N
Clockwise from top left: ANIMO Livia Jacket; ROMFH Childs’ International Euro Seat Knee-Patch Breech; ANIMO Pony Divison’s Amico Mirtillo Riding Jean breeches; GOODE RIDER Horsebit Jean pocket detail; EQUILINE new junior Young and Forever Collection, Minnie; GOODE RIDER Horsebit Jean and Iconic Polo.
WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 19
EQ F A S H I O N
Model: ANIMO Andawa piquet competition shirt; MONTANA BREECHES, HILLS leather belt.
PIUS SCHWIZER
Young model: ANIMO Asterix piquet competition shirt; MAGNETIC BREECHES; HERMY leather belt.
a best seller for their women’s collection, looks even cuter in little-people size! One of my personal favorite designers for young riders is Claudia Anderson. I love her use of the playful fabrics and color combinations that run throughout her entire collection. The patterned horse tees and matching patches on the breech conjure a clear image in my mind of a young rider getting dressed to ride her favorite pony. The budding jumping stars of the future are always drawn to the glamour of the European brands like Animo, Equiline, and Samshield. The top riders are wearing these brands, so of course the young riders want to emanate the same style and flair as their idols. From the vibrant color options on the short and sporty show coats to the textured fabrics on the helmets, young jumpers have the most options when it comes to show apparel.
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Having been a teacher and college counselor in my former life, I always find it amusing that the pony hunter moms want to buy all the fun and flashy clothing for their young hunt seat and equitation riders, while the kids seem to turn up their noses at anything that isn’t George Morris approved. Grand Prix, Tailored Sportsman, Essex, and Charles Owen are still at the top of the list for go-to hunter brands. The young rider collection from Romfh is also becoming more and more popular as it offers a great classic base at an affordable price. However, even the European brands have considered the demand for a classically fit navy hunt coat and simple tan breeches, and I think you will see more and more options hitting the U.S. market for young PAGE 110 hunters next year.
Owner Renee Spurge LA Saddlery has opened the California equestrian market to companies from all over the world. The store presents new clothing lines with fresh ideas, high-performance fabrics, and fashion-forward details. LA Saddlery’s main store is located in the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, California, and their mobile boutique frequents many of the top California horse shows.
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EQ S T Y L E
Entertain with Flair Raise the bar this year while serving up good cheer with this selection of UNDERSTATED and UNIQUELY DISTINCT pieces.
Decorative Horse Rectangular Tray, by L’Objet. Limoges porcelain with 24k gold plating. 14" x 11". $425.
Set of four Wentworth Leather Coasters, by Ralph Lauren. 4.625" x 4.25". $150.
Henley Centerpiece Bowl, small, by Ralph Lauren. Finely crafted in glass, leather, and nickel. 14" diameter x 8" high. $1,295.
Arlo Mid-Century Extendable Serving Bar Cart, by Kathy Kuo Home. Solid oak with limed driftwood finish. 33.5" high x 43" wide (extends to 60" wide) 22" deep. $2,189. Continued on page 24
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EQ S T Y L E Continued from page 22
Entertain with Flair Banded Bead Cocktail Collection, by Reed and Barton. This Heritage Collection shaker boasts classic form with intervals of beaded bands in spare concentric patterns. Suitable for engraving. 3.875" deep, 10.062" high. $125.
Glass Pitcher with Pewter Horse Bit Handle, by Vagabond House.This weighty glass pitcher sports a tall, slimcylinder design, accessorized with pewter embellishments and a bit-shaped handle. 9.5" tall x 4" wide x 9.75". $192.
Moser Gold and Horses, gold-banded glassware in 13.5 ounce highball, and 12.5 ounce double old fashioned sizes. Available in clear or aquamarine at L. V. Harkness. DOF $150. HB $150. Aquamarine HB $165. Georgian Decanter, by William Yeoward. Modern design with glass rings applied to the neck of this handmade, glass classic. 35-ounce capacity. $180.
Henley Oblong Tray, by Ralph Lauren. Finely crafted in glass, leather, and nickel. Glass can be removed for cleaning. 9" wide x 25.5" long. $595.
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Horse Flask. Sip in style with this hunt-scene original. 3.5" x 4". Available at L.V. Harkness. $75.
Pewter Champagne Bucket with Horse, by Vagabond House. Figural Thoroughbred heads serve as handles. Subtle, brushed finish encircled by gadroon band that recalls a halter rope. 8" wide x 15" long x 9" high. $605. PAGE 110
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Private Polo Fields $2,550,000 Private Polo Fields $2,550,000 5BR home with detached guest house, situated on 1 acre backing to privately owned polo fields, home to many great polo tournaments and private matches. Great for entertaining with new kitchen, gas 5BR home with detached guest house, situated on 1 acre backing to privately owned polo fields, home to many great polo tournaments and private matches. Great for entertaining with new kitchen, gas professional cooking, breakfast nook overlooking the stunning pool & patio with a full summer kitchen, gas lanterns, fire pit and many more upgrades throughout including marble & wood floors. Detached professional cooking, breakfast nook overlooking the stunning pool & patio with a full summer kitchen, gas lanterns, fire pit and many more upgrades throughout including marble & wood floors. Detached guest house with 1 bedroom suite, office and home gym. Private motor court & 3 car garage on gated cul-de-sac. guest house with 1 bedroom suite, office and home gym. Private motor court & 3 car garage on gated cul-de-sac.
Equestrian Club $835,000 Equestrian Club Yorktown model with a pool in the gated subdivision of Wellington’s Equestrian Club. Boasting 4,879 Sq. ft. under air, bamboo wood floors, center island kitchen, gas cooking, stainless$835,000 Lovely 5Br/5Bth steel Lovely 5Br/5Bth Yorktown model withand a pool in the gated subdivision of Wellington’s Equestrian Club.with Boasting 4,879 Sq. under air,cover bamboo center island kitchen, storage gas cooking, steel appliances and large walk-in pantry, ground floor master suite. The spacious backyard is fenced brick pavered poolft.deck and patio.wood 4 carfloors, garage with air-conditioned room stainless & full bath. appliances and pantry,for and ground floor master suite. The spacious backyard is fenced with brick pavered pool deck and cover patio. 4 car garage with air-conditioned storage room & full bath. Easy access to large 441 &walk-in the Turnpike commuters & near all the equestrian venues. Easy access to 441 & the Turnpike for commuters & near all the equestrian venues.
Indian Mound Road $1,750,000 5 Indian acres inMound the heart of Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve. Adjacent to polo fields at the corner of$1,750,000 Indian Road Mound Rdin& the 130th. 2Br/2Bth home withEquestrian screened patio overlooking a beautiful The property 5 acres heart of Wellington’s Preserve. Adjacent to polowater fieldsfeature. at the corner of Indian isMound currently as a2Br/2Bth nursery & can be without theainventory. Rdin&use 130th. home withpurchased screened with patiooroverlooking beautiful water feature. The property is currently in use as a nursery & can be purchased with or without the inventory.
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Acme Road $849,000 Equestrian Acme Roadproperty on 8.7 acres with 3 barns with a total of 15 stalls, several wash racks, oversized $849,000 riding arenaproperty and 15 large a 2,040 Sq. several ft. 3Br/2Bth pool home on the Equestrian on 8.7grass acresturnout with 3paddocks. barns withThere a totalis of 15 stalls, wash racks, oversized property. This a great producing property There within is thea Village of Wellington. riding arena andis 15 largeincome grass turnout paddocks. 2,040 Sq. ft. 3Br/2Bth pool home on the property. This is a great income producing property within the Village of Wellington.
Palm Beach Point $3,850,000 Exquisite 3Br/4Bth, for 10+ Palm Beach Point pool home on 5.26 acres, adjacent 5 acre parcel also available, combine $3,850,000 acres. Unmatched quality with impact glass, in home gym, summer kitchen, generator and top of the Exquisite 3Br/4Bth, pool home on 5.26 acres, adjacent 5 acre parcel also available, combine for 10+ line finishes. Center-aisle barn with grooms quarters, covered trailer parking, riding arena and large acres. Unmatched quality with impact glass, in home gym, summer kitchen, generator and top of the grass paddocks on the bridle path. Prime location. line finishes. Center-aisle barn with grooms quarters, covered trailer parking, riding arena and large grass paddocks on the bridle path. Prime location.
Saddle Trail Park $1,395,000 4 Saddle Br /3BthTrail on 2.03 boasts, Park acre cul-de-sac lot. Kitchen opens family rm & breakfast nook, The home $1,395,000 office with built-ins, family & media rooms, 2 fireplaces, summer kitchen, resort style pool & spa & 3boasts, car 4 Br /3Bth on 2.03 acre cul-de-sac lot. Kitchen opens family rm & breakfast nook, The home garage. Situated in the heart of Wellington on 350 ft. of bridle path connecting to WEF show grounds. office with built-ins, family & media rooms, 2 fireplaces, summer kitchen, resort style pool & spa & 3 car Room for 9 stall center-aisle barn, grooms qtrs, arena & paddocks. garage. Situated in the heart of Wellington on 350 ft. of bridle path connecting to WEF show grounds. Room for 9 stall center-aisle barn, grooms qtrs, arena & paddocks. Ad Design by Photo Graphic Press, Inc. (954) 816-3148
EQ P E O P L E
Meimei Zhu A STORYBOOK ENDING FOR THE YOUNG RIDER AT THE CHINA NATIONAL GAMES.
The population of China is equivalent to the population of all of North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe combined. With the equestrian world in China growing exponentially, EQ presents the second in a series sharing interesting features and
T
he road to becoming a professional rider is a difficult one. While the glory of a win can be great, riding requires huge commitments of time, money, and effort. The decision for Meimei Zhu to become an equestrian was made early, and it brought up difficult questions for her mother. Would the time commitment, emotional challenges, and disappointments be too much for Meimei at such a young age? Meimei and her family moved to China while she was still a girl. As the field of China’s equestrian competition grew, riders in Asia began to share the spotlight held by Europeans and Americans. And Meimei Zhu was one of the riders poised to enter that group. The National Games in China are similar to the Olympics and take place only once every four years. The level of competition is very high, and the event is, for most riders, a moment they have been working towards for many years. After the end of the first round at the 2013 national games, Zhu had knocked down a rail
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introducing top riders from our friends at Horsemanship magazine in Beijing.
for four faults. “We thought it would be goodbye to medals because there were five riders without penalties,” said her mother, Jing Li. “We wanted her to just do her best, and the good news was that we were free of pressure.” When the second round started in the afternoon, Zhu entered the ring and walked directly to the left-turn obstacle. Few people noticed this, but those who knew her horse understood. She wanted to show the white horse where the obstacle was because the horse is blind in its left eye. “He wants to win even more than I do,” said Zhu of her horse. “Before he came to China, he attended a lot of competitions. He knows when to try hard, and when it comes down to the final.” Without the pressure of the expectations of a gold medal, Zhu was able to perform at her best. Her ride resulted in a clean round, while one by one, each of her competitors succumbed to the high pressure and made mistakes. “It turned out that I was lucky, my horse did very well, and our teamwork was perfect,” Zhu excitedly said. Jing Li added, “It paid off after so many years of hard work! If she’s happy, I’m happy.”
EQ F A V O R I T E S
Sgt. Reckless
USMC HISTORY DIVISION, QUANTICO, VA
How America’s WAR HORSE became a national hero.
Reckless with a 75 mm recoilless rifle.
Excerpted from the New York Tmes bestseller, Sgt. Reckless, by ROBIN HUTTON, published by Regenery History.
O
n April 10, 1954, Reckless was officially promoted to sergeant—an honor never bestowed, before or since, on an animal. There have been animals, especially dogs, which surpassed their roles as military mascots and were recognized with awards and even medals. No other animal has ever held any legal, officially sanctioned U.S. military rank and been genuinely respected for that rank, except for Reckless. So April 10th was a big day for Reckless and her platoon. Not just because of the promotion, but because Major General Randolph McCall Pate made a special trip to
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R E C K L E S S S TO O D AT AT T E N T I O N A S T H E GENERAL PINNED THE S T R I P E S O N TO H E R B E AU T I F U L , T H O U G H S L I G H T LY- C H E W E D B L A N K E T.
do the honors of presenting Reckless with her sergeant’s stripes. The company paraded and General Pate “trooped the line.” Sergeant Elmer Lively and Technical Sergeant Dave Woods escorted Reckless into position. Master Sergeant John Strange read the citation: “For meritorious achievement in connection with operations against the enemy while serving with a Marine infantry regiment in Korea from October
26, 1952 to July 27, 1953. Corporal Reckless performed the duties of ammunition carrier in a superb manner. Reckless’s attention and devotion to duty make her well qualified for promotion to the rank of sergeant. Her absolute dependability while on missions under fire contributed materially to the success of many battles...” Reckless stood at attention as Pate pinned the stripes onto her beautiful, though slightly chewed blanket. The native Korean, born Ah-Chim-Hai and raised to race at a Seoul Thoroughbred track, was now officially a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. Navy Corpsman Doc Rogers was there that day. “They broke us all out in formation,” Rogers remembered, describing the formal gathering, at attention and by rank, “and they had Reckless Continued on page 30
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EQ F A V O R I T E S
Sgt. Reckless CAMP PENDLETON ARCHIVES AND LEATHERNECK MAGAZINE.
Continued from page 28
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include a memorable salute to America’s most unlikely war heroine. he press went wild when Reckless, clip-clopping onto the club’s historic theater stage, was greeted by at least 50 cheering Marines. When calm returned, she was toasted again and again—with Coca-Cola. Poor Reckless. She was a decorated war heroine and belle of the ball, yet she had to consider her pristine public image. So when a photographer suggested that, in print, the caramel-colored soft drink could be mistaken for alcohol, Reckless obliged and also drank a glass of milk. After a brief respite, Reckless strode into the freight elevator, adjusted her stance to fit more comfortably, then rode confidently to the tenth floor’s banquet dinner in the main dining room. Escorted off the elevator by Lieutenant Eric Pedersen and Sergeant Elmer Lively, the little mare strode into the banquet hall of 400 Marines and their dates to thunderous applause as “flash bulbs popped like mortar shells along the Main Line of Resistance.” Keynote speaker Colonel Andy Geer regaled his audience with “the story of Reckless’s transition from a racing pony to a traditional Marine Corps hero.” While being introduced to the crowd, Reckless “spied a two-foot- high anniversary cake and before Pedersen or Lively could restrain her, she was up to her nostrils in it. She sighed gustily. This was the best food she had since the peanut butter sandwiches in Korea. When the cake was gone, Mrs. Veda Ames, wife of Major General Evans O. Ames, USMC, leaned far over the table and served Reckless ice cream from her hand.” But for the famished filly, these were mere appetizers. During the speeches, Reckless started in on the rose and carnation centerpieces.
T
W H I L E B E I N G I N T RO D U C E D TO T H E C ROW D, R E C K L E S S “ S P I E D A T WO - F O OT- H I G H A N N I V E R S A RY C A K E A N D B E F O R E T H E Y C O U L D R E S T R A I N H E R , S H E WA S U P TO H E R N O S T R I L S I N I T.”
make an unprecedented appearance as the honored guest...and be given due recognition” at her stateside “coming out” party—the annual Marine Corps Birthday Dinner and Dance. Reservations for the event reportedly were “in extremely heavy demand,” as it promised to
JAMES TAGGERT
there. And they had her corporal blanket on—had corporal stripes on the side of it, had all of her ribbons on there—and they promoted her to sergeant. “They took the old blanket off and put the new blanket on her that had the sergeant stripes on there. And, of course, the same ribbons. It was the most beautiful horse blanket I ever saw. “But, you know, I think back on that and I think she just acted like she knew everything that was going on. She just stood still. They read off everything and it was almost like she was just a part of it. She knew what was happening. She was a proud Marine.” The time had come for Reckless to meet the press. The ship was so jammed with reporters and photographers that one veteran newsman observed wryly, “She has more cameras and reporters to meet her than Vice President Nixon had a week ago when he came to town.” The San Francisco Examiner reported, “Not since the days when troopships were coming back from the Korean War had the waterfront seen such a welcome as that given the fighting veteran at Pier 7 yesterday.” Reckless was in her glory. For more than an hour, she “posed with various Marines, she ate carrots, she walked into and out of her stall a dozen times while flash bulbs popped and cameramen shouted for different poses. Then she became bored and let her handlers know it.” It was time to go. From the docks, Reckless and her entourage headed straight to a reception in her honor at the Marines’ Memorial Club arranged by Major General Evans O. Ames. The November 1954 Anniversary Issue of Crossroads of the Corps, the Marines’ Memorial Association magazine, devoted its cover to Technical Sergeant Joe Latham and Reckless. The feature story previewed how Reckless “will
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EQ H E A L T H
he relationship between horse and owner can be close. However, without the use of language, it can be difficult to make decisions on behalf of a horse with regard to their comfort. After all, how can you know whether your horse would prefer a blanket
“blanket on,” one for “blanket off,” and one for “no change.” After about 11 days, horses were tested 14 times in a row under predetermined hot or cold environmental conditions, and most of the horses were deemed to have learned the symbols. The horses then entered what the scientists called the “free choice phase” in which their responses were not influenced or corrected, and the results of on a chilly day? Is it time for a blanket? their response resulted in a blanket For some, finding a blanket that was put on or not. out in a muddy paddock or hangThe tests were done under varying ing from a horse’s neck can be weather conditions, including rain/ the only way to find out that a snow, wind, and sunshine, with temhorse would have preferred to peratures ranging from 5 degrees to be naked. For others, the hints 70 degrees. Horses were left outdoors might be more subtle. Now, there for two hours before being given the is research to prove that horses chance to change into or out of their do, in fact, have preferences blankets. The results showed that the about wearing blankets and can A new study shows that horses can literally horses made decisions influenced by communicate their wishes using W H AT T H E Y WA N T . tell you the weather. Choices were also influsymbols. enced by the horse’s breed; cold-blood The study, conducted by horses chose more often to remain Cecilie Mejdell at the Norwegian blanketless than the warm-bloods. University of Life Sciences The study shows not only that horses can identify their own preferand presented at the International Equitation Science Conference in ences and desires and can be taught to communicate those, but that they Denmark, is said to prove not only that horses can make choices, but are capable of planning ahead and understanding the consequences of a that they can even understand the consequences of their decisions. choice. This may have many implications for future experiments with Professional trainers trained a crosshorses, and it might also change the section of various breeds of horse, way horseowners make daily both cold- and warm-bloods, aged decisions around the barn 3 to 16 years using a 10-step this winter. program. Horses were taught
Ask your horse.
to touch a visual symbol presented to them on a board with their nose. There were three symbols: one for
The International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) is a notfor-profit organization that aims to facilitate research into the training of horses to enhance horse welfare and improve the horse-rider relationship. www. ISES2014.com
32 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
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 first 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. Legend® Multi Dose (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution, Legend (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution, BRIEF SUMMARY: Prior to use please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: CAUTION: Federal Law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: Legend® Injectable Solution and Legend® Multi Dose Injectable Solution are indicated in the treatment of equine joint dysfunction associated with equine osteoarthritis. CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are no known contraindications for the use of Legend® Injectable Solution and Legend® Multi Dose Injectable Solution in horses. RESIDUE WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. HUMAN WARNINGS: Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. ANIMAL SAFETY WARNING: For Legend Injectable Solution 4 mL and Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution Not for Intra-articular use. The Intra-articular safety of hyaluronate sodium with benzyl alcohol has not been evaluated. PRECAUTIONS: Complete lameness evaluation should be conducted by a veterinarian. Sterile procedure during the injection process must be followed. Intra-articular injections should not be made through skin that is inflamed, infected or has had a topical product applied. The safety of Legend Injectable Solution and Legend Multi Dose has not been evaluated in breeding stallions or in breeding, pregnant or lactating mares. ADVERSE REACTIONS: No side effects were observed in Legend Injectable Solution clinical field trials. Side effects reported post-approval: Following intravenous use: Occasional depression, lethargy, and fever. Following intra-articular (Legend Injectable Solution – 2 mL only) use: joint or injection site swelling and joint pain. For medical emergencies or to report adverse reactions, call 1-800-422-9874. ANIMAL SAFETY SUMMARY: Animal safety studies utilizing Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution were not performed. Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution was approved based on the conclusion that the safety of Legend Multi Dose Injectable Solution will not differ from that demonstrated for the original formulation of Legend Injectable Solution. Legend Injectable Solution was administered to normal horses at one, three and five times the recommended intra-articular dosage of 20 mg and the intravenous dose of 40 mg. Treatments were given weekly for nine consecutive weeks. No adverse clinical or clinical pathologic signs were observed. Injection site swelling of the joint capsule was similar to that seen in the saline treated control horses. No gross or histological lesions were observed in areas of the treated joint. For customer service or to obtain product information, including a Material Safety Data Sheet, call 1-800-633-3796. Bayer (reg’d), the Bayer Cross (reg’d), Legend® and the horse logo are trademarks of Bayer. © 2010 Bayer HealthCare LLC Bayer HealthCare LLC, Animal Health Division, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66201 U.S.A., 15802 GHG011414
E14811
The United States Equestrian Team Foundation Gl a d s tone • Ne w Jerse y • Uni t ed S tat e s
Supporting Athletes • Promoting International Excellence Building for the Future
Photos by Rebecca Walton / Phelps Media Group, SusanJStickle.com, Sarah Miller for MacMillan Photography
Please help our Now you can donate online!
United States Equestrian Teams Continue to Achieve Competitive Excellence
(908) 234-1251 www.uset.org
Ride for a cause.
Do you have a passion for helping others? Join fellow riders from around the world and start making a difference today! Currently over 500 Ambassadors from 40 countries help raise funds and awareness for children at JustWorld projects. We invite you to learn more about our partner projects and be a part of our education, nutrition, health, hygiene, and vocational training programs in Guatemala, Honduras, Cambodia, and Colombia.
WWW.JUSTWORLDINTERNATIONAL.ORG JustWorld International is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization in the United States and a registered Association 1901 in France. Tax-deductible donations are accepted in Switzerland and JustWorld’s supporters may send their donations to Fondation Philanthropia, a Swiss public-benefit umbrella foundation. Tax-deductible donations are also accepted in Canada. Canadian donors please visit: http://tidescanada.org/support/justworld-international-fund/. JustWorld International has no political or religious affiliation.
EQ G I V I N G B A C K
Hannah Selleck Hannah Selleck represented JUSTWORLD INTERNATIONAL at the World Equestrian Games. BY JILL NOVOTNY
J
representative for JustWorld. “We were one of just four charities invited to attend,” she said. “It was really interesting to participate in a professional capacity, while many of my friends and colleagues were there to ride or to spectate.” EA RLY S TA RT CARRIE WIRTH
At the American Gold Cup at Old Salem Farm in N.Y. Left to right: Jill Novotny, EQ deputy editor ; Hannah Selleck; ringmaster Pedro Cebulka; and Jessica Newman.
HAN N AH’ S
FAVO RI TE S
FAVORITE SHOW/ VENUE: I love the Hampton Classic (right) and Spruce Meadows.
FAVORITE GETAWAY: I love going to London. I have family there, so it’s a nice vacation, but then I also get to see them.
FAVORITE HORSE: Cirka Z, a stallion. He was one of my first horses. He really gave me a passion for the spor t.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT: There’s a sandwich shop called John’s Garden close to where I grew up in Malibu. They have the most amazing sandwiches. I always go there when I’m at home.
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Hannah began riding when she was only 4 years old and started to show in the A circuit at 14. Now, she has risen to recognition as an accomplished show jumper, model, and businesswoman. A popular Ariat ad campaign
ESI PHOTO
ust after the awards were handed out for the last class of the day, the rain began to fall on the American Gold Cup in North Salem, New York. Hannah Selleck joined EQ and JustWorld International’s founder, Jessica Newman, under the tent just in time to watch the shops close up and the spectators disperse. Selleck was fresh from her trip to the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Normandy, France, and eager to talk about her experience there as the ambassador
FAVORITE APP: Waze, a navigation app. It saves me a ton of time because I commute from N.Y.C. to the farm in Nor th Salem. It’s a great app. FAVORITE CITY: New York
EQ G I V I N G B A C K
recently featured stunning photos of her outfitted in sporty riding apparel, looking beautiful, dynamic, and athletic. As her equestrian career grew to extend in many directions, she became interested in JustWorld. “I was aware of them. I had seen the Horseless Horseshow and the Galla, and I just wanted to become involved,” she said.
H
S H A R E T H E L OVE
JustWorld is not specifically an equestrian charity, but it has become a staple of the equestrian world—a way for a generally fortunate
ESPHOTO.COM
er first and very dramatic role as an ambassador for JustWorld International was the Jump 4 JustWorld in March, when she and seven other equestrians jumped from a plane over Wellington, Florida, to raise awareness and funds for the charity’s efforts in education, health, and nutrition programs in Asia and South America. “I wasn’t scared until I got to the door of the plane, but it was amazing. You feel like you can do anything after that,” she laughed. Hannah Selleck and Norman, the mascot of the World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France.
community to give back. Selleck explained, “I think it’s very important in the equestrian world to have an organization like this bringing awareness. The riding community can be small, and it’s important to have kids be made aware of what else is going in the world.” As JustWorld prepares to move into its 12th year, the organization continues to gain support around the world. Projects are expanding, and more new countries are on the horizon. For example, the success in Cambodia has led to a campaign for a second school there, and the founder of the project in Guatamala was recently named a CNN hero. Over the next several years, this model of community involvement is where she sees JustWorld heading. “In Guatamala,” Newman explained, “there is an equestrian community that is supporting the project.” Over the next several years, this model of community involvement is where she sees JustWorld heading. “We hope to make more of these projects sustainable, where people from the local community are also involved,” said Newman. “The common passion for horses mobilizes people everywhere.”
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WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 37
EQ T H E L I O N ’ S R O A R
ADVICE FOR PARENTS
STARTING CHILDREN RIDING “A TACK STORE IS A RESOURCE THAT WILL BE INVALUABLE TO STARTING YOUR CHILD’S HORSE
M
any families throughout the country who want their child to experience horseback riding have no idea where to start. Surprisingly, this wonderful sport is very accessible and affordable. Riding at the entry level can be found in numerous forms: Western, which evolves into several different disciplines such as reining, and English, which also evolves into jumping, dressage, and three-day eventing. Here are a few ideas to help parents get their children started riding. For first-time riders, find a tack store near your home and speak to the owner. Ask what stables with entry-level riding programs in your area might be right for your child. A tack store is a resource that can help you take the correct initial steps to start your child’s horse experience safely. Note that you will find both Western and English tack shops. Certain parts of the country tend to have more of one than the other depending on the equestrian tradition of region, but each discipline has a presence everywhere. As a result, if you want your child to ride Western and you only know of English tack shops, be persistent and you will find a Western program. Then, just like choosing an elementary school for your child, interview the programs available to you. This includes speaking to current and graduate riders. An increasing number of barns have trainers that are certified by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). If you have a choice, ride at a barn that has certified trainers. The internet is also a useful tool. I find that most websites present what they want you to know, but are not necessarily objective. The barn where your child learns to ride has a huge human component to it. The barn
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EXPERIENCE SAFELY.” PETER LEONE
director and its trainers will have a significant impact not only on your child’s introduction to riding, but also the way they think and act towards horses, animals, and other people. We all know the importance of a good school teacher. Your child’s first riding instructor is no different. Be thorough, be picky, and choose the barn environment that aligns with your family values. The barn you choose will often become an extended family for your child, so look for one that is a good influence on your child. Barn programs are generally filled with children that have commitment, compassion for animals, and are establishing a real sense of responsibility. Over the last several decades credible and organized riding programs have been established for middle and secondary school students. One organization doing this is the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA). The mission of the IEA is to introduce students in private and public schools (primarily ages 11 through 19) to equestrian team sports. These teams are geared to those who have never ridden before as well as more experienced riders. The competitions are fun, and the league is focused more on learning than winning. Rules ensure that all students participate in competition regardless of ability or experience. The original organization that established an equestrian-education program for young people at the college level is the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) founded by Robert Cacchione in the 1960s. This equestrian school team experience has produced Olympic gold medalists for the United States such as Beezy Madden, Peter Wylde, and Greg Best.
(Read about the IEA and IHSA and meet Bob in EQ’s Spring 2013 issue equestrianquarterly.com/ spring-2013) Regardless of how far your child goes in equestrian sport, his or her college equestrianteam experience will last a lifetime. Their riding resumé can be an asset when applying to college because many of our schools give scholarships to competitive equestrians. Recently, NCAA colleges have committed to equestrian sport and have a parallel league for their schools. Title IX is fully behind the NCAA league. IHSA and NCAA equestrian teams offer both English and Western riding teams. All the riding opportunities presented here are relatively affordable. At any point in your child’s riding, you may choose to commit to a more competitive program that focuses on national junior competitions. This is actually done in the same way you started your journey. Networking, interviewing, and research will lead you where you want to go. You won’t regret it. Equestrian sport is a great way to increase your child’s self-confidence and well-being, and develop their sense and appreciation for animals. Peter Leone is an Olympic equestrian, trainer, producer of hunter jumper instructional DVDs, and author of Peter Leone’s Jumping Clinic: Success Strategies for Equestrian Athletes. He owns and operates Lionshare Farm in Greenwich, Connecticut. Leone was a member of the 1996 Silver Medal United States Olympic Show-jumping Team and has won numerous national and international grand-prix showjumping competitions.
EQ S C I E N C E
Horsing Around New research shows that working with horses REDUCES STRESS hormones in youth. BY RACHEL WEBBER
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ew research from Washington State University (WSU) reveals that youth who work with horses experience a substantial reduction in stress—and the evidence lies in kids’ saliva. The results are published in the American Psychological Association’s Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin this month. “We were coming at this from a prevention perspective,” said Patricia Pendry, a developmental psychologist at WSU who studies how stress “gets under the skin” and the effects of prevention programs on human development. “We are especially interested in optimizing healthy stress hormone production in young adolescents, because we know from other research that healthy stress hormone patterns may protect against the development of physical and mental health problems.” H A R D S C I E N CE
Pendry’s work is the first evidence-based research within the field of human-equine interaction to measure a change in participants’ levels of the stress hormone cortisol. “The beauty of studying stress hormones is that they can be sampled quite noninvasively and conveniently by sampling saliva in naturalistic settings as individuals go about their regular day,” Pendry said. While human-animal interaction programs with horses, dogs, cats, and other companion animals have been credited with improving social competence, self-esteem, and behavior in children, scientifically valid research to support these claims—as well as an understanding of the underlying mechanism for why people report a positive experience in these programs—has been limited. Three years ago, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) began asking researchers to tackle big questions about the effects of human-animal interaction on child development. With the support of a $100,000 NIH 40 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
grant, Pendry led a research project to engage students in grades five through eight in a 12-week equine facilitated learning program in Pullman, Washington. She approached the coordinator of PATH (Palouse Area Therapeutic Horsemanship) at the WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, which had been offering a therapeutic riding program for over 30 years. Pendry has been riding and working with horses since she was a child and reacquainted herself with therapeutic horsemanship when she began to look for her next research project. ST R ESS HOR MONES AN D R ISK
Pendry hypothesized that stress hormone functioning is a result of how we perceive stress as well as how we cope with it. “Stress is not just what you experience,” she said, “but it’s how you interpret the size of the stressor. A child in front of a large, unfamiliar horse may experience more stress than when he or she encounters a smaller, more familiar animal.” Working with PATH director Sue Jacobson and Phyllis Erdman from the WSU College of Education, Pendry designed and implemented an after-school program serving 130 typically developing children over a two-year period that bused students from school to the barn for 12 weeks.
Children were randomly assigned to participate in the program or be waitlisted. Based on natural horsemanship techniques, the program provided 90 minutes each week to learn about horse behavior, care, grooming, handling, riding, and interaction. Participants provided six samples of saliva over a two-day period both before and after the 12-week program. Pendry compared the levels and patterns of stress hormone functioning by measuring cortisol. The results were exciting. “We found that children who had participated in the 12-week program had significantly lower stress hormone levels throughout the day and in the afternoon, compared to children in the waitlisted group,” she said. “We got excited about that because we know that higher base levels of cortisol—particularly in the afternoon—are considered a potential risk factor for the development of psychopathology.” SU PPO RTI VE EVI DENC E
Pendry said the experimental design underlying the study gives more scientific credit to the claims of therapeutic horsemanship professionals, parents, and children who have reported a positive impact from these types of programs. In addition, she hopes the results will lead to development of alternative after-school programs. While the research focused on prevention, Pendry said she believes it could provide a starting point to look at the impact on children of high levels of stress and physical or mental health issues. “Partly because of NIH’s effort to bring hard science to the field of human-animal interaction, program implementers now have scientific evidence to support what they are doing,” she said. Reprinted courtesy of WSU News. Learn more about the Department of Human Development in the Washington State University College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences at hd.wsu.edu.
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EQ D É C O R
Make Roomfor Horses
Decorate your C H I L D ’ S B E D RO O M to reflect their passion for horses. Hibou Home’s Gymkhana Wallpaper. $122.
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he decor of a child’s bedroom reflects personality and passions. And with kids that ride, there is usually no lack of passion! A child’s room should be comfortable, livable, cozy, and safe, but also inspiring and fun.
Land of Nod Horse Throw Pillow, $29, and Equestrian Sheet Set. $99.
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There are infinite ways to create the bedroom of your child’s dreams no matter what type of equestrian activities they most enjoy. From the rugged cowboy ranch to the sweet pastels of a pony paradise, every equestrian child can find the decor that inspires them.
Cowboy Wallpaper from Hibou Home. $122.
The Giddyup Quilt with Pillow Sham. $169.
Saddle Trail: This one-of-a-kind equestrian estate has a brand new 16-stall center aisle barn situated on almost 5-acres of land and is hacking distance from the WEF show grounds. The 5Br, 4Ba main house boasts a gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops and maple wood cabinets. The open floor plan and beautiful brick patio is great for entertaining. Offered at $4,500,000 Sheri Liantonio 561-827-0506
Southfields: This 2.8 acr e pr oper ty consists of a main house with guest cottage, a 7-stall barn, large paddocks with a sand ring, and a backyard paradise. The main house is 2Br and 3Ba, with a tranquil backyard that has a pool, outdoor fireplace, and plenty of room for entertaining. The 1Br, and 1Ba guest cottage has a living area with kitchenette. Offered at $3,900,000 Amy Carr 561-662-0728
Binks Forest: Delightful, matur e oak tr ees line the str eets in this estate area of Binks Forest with half-acre lots and gated access. The spacious floor plan includes 3Br, plus a double-door den which abuts the master suite. Extensive decking is ideal for entertaining. Offered at $474,500 Debra James 561-762-8214
Palm Beach Polo: This fully renovated 3Br, 3Ba plus office corner unit is a rare find. The fenced courtyard offers a lovely and private space to relax and enjoy the sunshine. The rear of the home has a large screened in patio that is ideal for entertaining, and offers a spectacular lake view. Offered at $640,000 Amy Carr 561-662-0728
The real estate agency with the international network: wellington.evusa.com
©2015 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
EQ D É C O R
Make Room
for Horses
Below: Cowgirl Bedroom Set, by Sweet JoJo Designs.
Below: The Centerline Bed from PonyBeds. $1175.
WaveGraphics’ Wooden Horse Wall Clock. $39.
This Horse Mobile is custom handmade to order and comes in a wide variety of colors. $65.
The Lily Bed, by PonyBeds. $1175.
Hand-carved Happy Farm Horse Chair by Fantasy Fields. $52.
Equestrian Sham from Land of Nod. $29.
Lamp Shade by Sweet JoJo Designs. $36.
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PAGE 110
Barnyard Bedroom from MissDesign. A dimmable Pony Bedside Lamp. $25.
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Logan Orlando, Taylor Cawley, and J.J. Torano compete in the walk-trot division at Lake Placid this summer.Â
TH E
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YO U N G R I D E R S Some children are guided toward horses by their parents. Others fall in love with the large, loving, and patient animals despite their elder’s trepidation.
N E X T G E N E R AT I O N BY JILL NOVOTNY
PHOTO: LIZ SOROKA
A
s with many sports, equestrian disciplines often begin at a young age. Some children might be guided by their parents. Others fall in love with horses despite their elders’ trepidation. The lifestyle and lifelong experience of being an equestrian are surely due to the draws of the sport: the lure of elegant tradition, the high-speed athletisism, and the magical charm of large, loving, and patient animals. Young riders are being encouraged and recognized more than ever before, with a growing variety of options available. There are several national events and programs that recognize young talent of different disciplines, including the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC), the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Pony Medal Finals, the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Young Rider Program, the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Talent Search, Dressage 4 Kids, Pony Club, and 4H. The mission of these programs is to encourage young riders to participate and to make friends, as well as to learn horsemanship and sportsmanship. U.S. Pony Clubs started in 1954 to teach English riding and
the proper care of horses, as an extension of the British Pony Club. Pony Club’s main purpose is to promote sportsmanship, stewardship, and leadership through horsemanship. Recently, the program has grown to include dressage and western disciplines. Alumni of the program include many famous riders, both men and women. In addition to these programs, there has been a huge increase in the number of opportunities students can find to ride as part of a team. The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) and the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) allow young riders to participate in equestrian sports without the expense of horse ownership, widening the pool of potential riders. (see page 54.) Learning horsemanship at a young age encourages children to become more responsible, more courageous, and more adaptable. The benefits of riding as part of a social group, whether formally on a team or just with friends, are even greater. Whether a young rider goes on to become a top show jumper, a professional in a horse-related business, or just a casual rider, there is no doubt that a childhood that includes horses can forever change a person’s life.
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F U T U R E S TA R S Champion show jumper and high-school senior Lillie Keenan shares some wisdom on what it takes to train and compete at the highest level, while maintaining academic excellence.
INTERVIEW: STEPHANIE PETERS AND JILL NOVOTNY PHOTOS FOR EQ BY GEORGE KAMPER AT HERITAGE FARM, KATONAH, N.Y.
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Y
ou have attained three of the
As a full-time student and athlete, how do you
most prestigious junior awards
discipline yourself to excel in academics and the
and now seem focused on the
competition ring?
grand prix arena. How do you
I have found that my equestrian pursuits have motivated me in my academics. I have learned time management. The better I do in school, the more time I can dedicate to show jumping and my horses.
enjoy competing in the bigger classes?
I enjoy the bigger classes because there I face new challenges of competing at a higher level against more experienced competitors. As a young rider competing in the professional divisions, I think of myself as a very small fish in an immense ocean. I have learned to take advantage of not just competing against some of the top riders in the world but also watching them, walking with them, and seeking their advice.
How will your training and competition schedule influence your choice of college?
Education is very important to me and my family, and I believe I can improve my equestrian career by harnessing my education. I have a demanding training and competition schedule, but I don’t want it to dictate my college choice. I’m interested in the most rigorous academic environment that is interested in me. Wherever I end up, I am determined to make it work with my riding.
What have been some of the challenges you’ve experienced transitioning from junior level to professional?
I plan to maintain my amateur status because I am now aging out of my junior status, but I intend to become a professional. Since I will go to college, I need to approach the next four years differently from how I will the years after college. Although I was still eligible to compete in junior divisions over the past year, I chose to begin the transition into the professional ranks. One of the challenges I have faced is maintaining a competitive edge in the higher level of competition. Also, these classes often conflict with school since most professional competitors are not high-school students. Balancing school and riding is a constant challenge.
Tell us about your partnership with Hermès. Have you had an opportunity to test a few of their saddles?
Born and raised in New York City, Lillie Keenan began her equestrian career at the age of 6 and began her formal training at Heritage Farm, located in Katonah, N.Y., with renowned trainer Andre Dignelli. Over the past decade her equestrian skills have evolved under Andre’s tutelage, and she continues to train with him today.
As a young athlete and aspiring professional, my partnership with Hermès has increased my motivation and determination. I am proud to be associated with an exceptional brand that has continued to emphasize the value of handcraftsmanship and centers its ideals on the horse. I actually compete in the Hermès Cavale saddle that I had custom-designed with minimal blocks to allow the closest contact with my
LILLIE KEENAN This summer was your first time competing at the senior Furusiyya FEI Nation’s Cup com-
horses. The superior construction of my equipment, especially my saddles, is essential to peak performance.
petition. How did you enjoy competing in the international arena?
I not only loved competing in the international arena, but I also truly enjoyed the team experience. In the usual competitions, I compete in an individual sport. In a team competition, my competitors become my teammates and we get to root for each other. The feeling of hearing the national anthem and seeing our flag is indescribable. I was proud to have the opportunity to represent the United States, and I hope I can continue to do so in the coming years.
Is there something particular that makes a horse a good partner?
The most important quality in a horse as a good partner is the connection one can develop. Some horses have the desire to fight for you, as if they can understand the goal of competition. Which rider/trainer has influenced you the most? Is there a rider you aspire to be like either personally or professionally?
I have trained with Andre Dignelli since I was 7 years old and he has influenced me Continued on page 51 WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 49
Now a high school senior, Lillie shows as a Junior in various jumper classes, including grand prix competition, and on occasion,enters into equitation and hunter classes. In June 2015, Lillie will graduate from Manhattan’s Spence School. She plans to attend college while continuing to show as a professional at major horse shows worldwide.
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the most. I have ridden at Heritage Farm from children’s ponies to grand-prix level. There are a few riders I aspire to be like both personally and professionally, including Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, and Kent Farrington. I admire these riders’ careers and work ethic. All of them emulate the American style. I also admire Brazilian showjumper Rodrigo Pessoa for his “keep going, no matter what” approach.
what would it be and why?
If I had to choose a different discipline, it would be reining. I got to try barrel racing at an exhibition at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show this year. I fell in love with my mount, the Palomino AQH, Freedom. I watched some of the reining at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, and both the horses and the riders are truly a breed apart.
learned that you would pass along to young competitors?
Lillie at the American Gold Cup at Old Salem Farm, Nor th Salem, N.Y., in September.
How do you unwind?
I like to jog to unwind. I don’t take much time off from riding since I enjoy working with my horses as much as I can. I’m lucky to participate in a global sport. But jogging is the one thing I can do no matter where I am. It’s a great way to take time for myself and clear my mind, listen to music, and explore a new place.
LI LLI E ’ S
FAVORITE PET: My dog, Milky.
Watch everyone. I learn the most from watching not only the professionals that I admire but also my competitors. Study what others do, what works and what does not, and think about what you might do differently. There are ups and downs, but take the losses and learn from them. I often question if it is all worth it, but moments like these make me realize just how much I want to pursue show jumping. OWEN HOFFMANN
I
f you had to choose a different discipline,
What key lessons have you
FAVO RI TE S
FAVORITE SHOW/ VENUE: Le Saut Hermès at the Grand Palais in Paris.
FAVORITE GETAWAY: A beach. FAVORITE CITY: Paris. FAVORITE CAR: I like both vintage and modern cars, but my favorite is a 1967 Ferrari GTC.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT: Spice Market in New York City.
FAVORITE CHARITY: ASPCA.
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R I D I N G AT S C H O O L
JOIN THE TEAM Participating in horse sports as part of a team can be the best of both worlds for young people looking for an activity. The benefits of a team sport are obvious: friendships, support, encouragement, and accountability. Riding is a traditionally solitary sport and one that requires a large investment to partake in. As such, the number of young people that are able to participate in horse sports has been limited. Until now. Since the establishment of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) in 1967, students have seen a steadily increasing
AMANDA GARNER IHSA COACH AND IEA BOARD MEMBER have loved horses for as long as I can remember. I got my first horse at age 9. I started as a Western rider, competing in Western pleasure, horsemanship, showmanship, and trail. After a few years I became interested in the hunt-seat discipline and began showing hunt seat in local and A-circuit horse shows. When I went off to college, I rode on my school’s IHSA equestrian team, and I continued to show hunt seat on my own horse in local and American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) competitions. I got a job in the corporate world that I enjoyed. I was making enough money to pay for my horse, but I found that I was working so much that I didn’t have time to ride. I decided I would rather pursue a career in the equine industry and spend all of my time around the horses, and worry less about making money. Very shortly after opening Epiphany Farm, in Dahlonega, Georgia, in 2005, I was contacted by a group of students at the nearby University of North Georgia. Their coach was moving away, and they were looking for a replacement. I jumped on that opportunity and have been head coach of their team ever since. I just started my 10th year this fall. In addition to my role as IHSA coach and show steward, I am now an IEA show steward, a member of the IEA national finals staff, and a member of the IEA board of directors. The biggest value of both the IEA and the IHSA is that they make equestrian sport accessible to almost
number of opportunities to take up horseback riding without the financial obligation of horse ownership. More recently, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) has extended these opportunities to high school students with a growing number of teams, both school-organized and otherwise. Both programs have seen huge success and continue to expand, encouraging new riders every year to join a team and to combine the benefits of team sports with horseback riding.
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LIU IHSA
I
The Long Island University-CW Post equestrian team’s new mascot is Hope, a 4-year-old Miniature mare, rescued from auction.
anyone who has a passion for horses, regardless of financial status. Horse ownership is expensive, and owning a show horse and competing regularly is even more so. In the IHSA and IEA, the horses and tack are provided. Students don’t have to own or lease a horse, transport it to shows, or pay for its general training and upkeep. Also, in my opinion, the IEA and IHSA format of riding and competing on a variety of different horses creates better riders. It’s much easier to ride the same horse that you either own or lease every day, than to ride a different horse in every lesson or to get on a horse you’ve never ridden before and compete. Another value is that IEA and IHSA take an individual sport and turn it into a team sport, so students learn the value of teamwork. Traditional horse showing is about one rider
and one horse competing together throughout the year to earn points towards a year-end championship. Yes, equestrian is a team sport in the sense that the horse and rider are a team, but IEA/IHSA competition fosters teamwork between groups of riders from the same school or barn as they work to earn team points towards a team end-of-year championship. Both organizations are growing. The IEA is the younger of the two organizations at about 10 years old, and as such, it is growing more rapidly. IEA executives are working hard to branch out into all areas of the country, especially the West. The IHSA is older, founded in 1967, but it is continuing to grow as well. Working with young riders has been very rewarding. I love their passion and energy. I see myself in many of them, working hard and truly wanting to learn, hoping beyond hope to get the opportunity to spend their lives doing what they love. Amanda Garner is author of A Parent’s Guide to the Interscholastic Equestrian Association. She also writes a weekly equestrian blog focusing on IEA and IHSA topics at Amanda-Garner.blogspot.com. Amanda is a Georgia Hunter Jumper Association steward and schooling show judge and owner and operator of Epiphany Farm, which hosts an IHSA team.
THE COLLEGE PREPARATORY INVITATIONAL (CPI) is a horse show held each year in Florida at which students, grades 9 through 12, who are preparing to apply to college can meet coaches, learn about the different oppor tunities to ride in college, and get a taste of what competing in the IHSA or National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) is like. The format of the show is much like an IHSA or IEA show, and the rules are a hybrid of the two. One of the characteristics of an intercollegiate show is that horses and tack are provided. “We reach out to local horse owners who graciously allow us the use of their horses for the weekend,” explained Lindsay Mar tin, president and owner of the CPI. Riders are asked to adjust to an unfamiliar horse in a shor t amount of time and
to ride a course with other riders, parents, and college coaches looking on. “I created the CPI in 2010 because my daughter dreamed of earning a college scholarship for her equestrian skill, much like any other high school athlete that plays spor ts,” said CPI founder Jeanne Rouco-Conesa. “As we compiled information on the numerous colleges that offered riding programs, we learned that not all collegiate riding competitions follow the same format and that there are various associations that govern collegiate riding.” The CPI grew from Rouco-Conesa’s desire to share what she and her daughter had learned about collegiate riding with other high school riders in an effor t to help them to design the experience that best suited their goals. “We have participants attend who are looking to pursue riding through the NCEA as
ABBY GOOGEL IEA COACH, LOOMIS CHAFFEE SCHOOL s a young rider, I never had the opportunity to be part of a team. My barn was like a big family, but despite our best sportsmanship, we were often competing against one another. Competing as part of a team was not
A
Captain Ally Piccone jumps her horse, Rigby, at a team practice.
something I even considered. It was something for Olympic athletes and international competitors— which I was not. It wasn’t until riding at college that I was able to experience the camaraderie and support than comes with a team environment. In recent years, this notion has changed dramatically for our young riders. With the introduction of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association in 2002, junior riders were finally given the opportunity to be on a team. Although the IEA is modeled after the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA),
well as those who are just looking for a school that has an IHSA riding program where they can continue to ride on a regular basis,” she explained. “Others are looking for a school that has equine studies programs.” In just four years, the CPI has grown to become the largest equestrian college fair in the nation that awards scholarship money to student riders. These scholarships reward equestrian talent as well as academics, horsemanship, and social
it has introduced a new culture among a younger breed. Over the past dozen years, hundreds of barns, schools, geographic regions, and towns have joined this growing league. The best things about it are that anyone can start a team, and members do not have to own their own horses. Last year, I found myself at a new job, working at a boarding school in Windsor, Connecticut, Loomis Chaffee. Arriving at the campus, I could feel the New England prepschool atmosphere and thought to myself, “I bet this place is filled with riders.” After doing some investigation, I was surprised to find that, despite interest among students, there was not a competitive-riding program at Loomis. Last winter, I took it upon myself to change this. What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was going to give them even better opportunities than I had imagined. One year later, I am coaching Loomis Chaffee’s Varsity Equestrian Team and loving every minute of it. We currently have 10 students on the team, and interest within the admissions office grows daily. We show as a team at many IEA shows throughout the year, vying both for team and individual points— with the hopes of qualifying for Regionals, Zones, and Nationals, which will be held in Wellington, Florida, this year. Our program at Loomis is all encompassing. We have riders who compete at the A level throughout the country and opt to bring their
awareness. Martin, who has also been involved with the University of Miami Equestrian Team and the IEA program in Florida, hopes to continue to expand the program. “I would like to take it from just an annual program to include other events and activities throughout the year,” she said. “The college fair is the best in the nation for students to connect faceto-face with college coaches,” Martin shared. While scouting and recruiting are still not as large in the equestrian world as in other college sports, it is becoming clear that there is a demand for prospective college riders to meet coaches and learn about their programs, while having a chance to show off their skills and potentially win some of the scholarship money that athletes in other sports have enjoyed for years.
horses to school with them. But we also have riders who have never set foot in the show ring before. We truly have a broad range of abilities, disciplines, and backgrounds, but they all come together to form a cohesive team. This is one of my favorite things about the IEA. Every one of our riders is just as important as the next. Whether they are competing in walk-trotcanter or the open division over fences, their presence and their placings within their division are vital to the success of the team. I could go on for days analyzing the positive influence of the IEA on our young riders. When I see my students laughing together on the bus or helping one another groom and tack their horses; when I see a senior rider helping a freshman put on her hairnet or a group of riders cheering on a student—that had previously ridden saddleseat—as she jumps her first fence; when I see the team rejoice together when a rider wins her class—this is when I know that the team dynamic is more powerful than words. Abby Googel is a young professional rider who works in the communications office and coaches the equestrian team at the Loomis Chaffee School, a coed boarding school in Windsor, Conn. The Loomis Chaffee Equestrian Team rides at ABF Equine in Coventry, Conn. Visit: loomischaffee.org/equestrian
WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 53
RAISING A RIDER
GEORGE KAMPER
M
ost parents would agree that participating in sports is a healthy way for children to spend time. Exercise, fresh air, friendships, and responsibilities are just a few benefits of many athletic activities. Horseback riding offers unique and significant advantages beyond other sports, as well as some particular challenges. Riding can be a very humbling sport. High speeds and various obstacles can be intimidating, and learning to ride asks a child to be brave and perserverant. Completing the course or winning the match requires execution of a plan, skill, patience, and physical strength and coordination, but it also requires a partnership with your horse. Unlike a bicycle or a pair of skis, a horse has a mind of its own. Horses can be tense, timid, or anxious. They can be clever and defiant, and even mischievous. Sensitivity to the horse is a large part of becoming a successful rider, and the sport teaches empathy in an intrinsic and essential way. Horses are also a huge responsibility. Many sports require equipment and commitment to some extent, but very few require such a large investment of time and money. The purchase of a horse itself, its transportation, the tack, apparel, and other equipment needed can be very costly, and the care and training of a horse is intensely time consuming. Because there is such a huge investment that is made both by the parents and the child, riding requires
Mandy and Tom McCutcheon.
Deborah and Larry Deutsch and their polo team: Jonah, Jacob, Estée, and Xander.
a much higher degree of accountability, time management, respect for the consequences of actions, and pride in ownership. A serious riding career can mean sacrifices and time away from friends and even school. “At an early age, she is learning that to be successful at something she loves, it takes hard work, dedication, and sacrifices,” says Lynn Jayne, mother to Natalie Jayne (page 57). The successes and failures that are experienced both in owning and caring for a horse, as well as in training and competition, lead to
adaptability, resilience, higher self-esteem, and a sense of achievement. “Having the horses and the responsibilities that come along with horses helps keeps kids focused,” said Mandy McCutcheon, champion reiner and mother to Cade (page 56). “You have to work hard to be successful at showing horses, which carries over to every aspect of a person’s life.” The social aspect, as well as the timeconsuming nature of the sport, lead to busy, productive days for children. “A busy teenager, involved daily in a rewarding physical
T E A M R I D I N G FOR EVERYONE IHSA Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (College)
NCEA (NCAA) National Collegiate Equestrian Association (College)
IDA Intercollegiate Dressage Association (College)
ANRC American National Riding Commission (College)
USPA I/I National Intercollegiate Polo (College)
ISSRA Intercollegiate Saddle Seat Riding Association (College)
English Western
English Western
Dressage
Eventing English
Polo
Saddle Seat
424 college teams
22 college teams
57 college teams
74 college teams
60 college teams
10 teams
Coed
Women only
Coed
Coed
Men and women
Coed
54 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
THE NEXT G E N E R AT I O N
Lynn Jayne joins her daghter Natalie in accepting her award at the Pony Medal Finals.
activity is generally not out looking for trouble or doing drugs after school,” said Deborah Deutsch, mom of four teens that make up the Casa Lago Polo Team in Beverly Hills, California. Entry into the sport as a parent can also mean a greater bonding between parent and child. “Natalie and I spend so much quality time together due to her riding,” says Lynn Jayne. “This is a sport that we love and share with each other.”
IEA Interscholastic Equestrian Association (Grades 6-12)
USPA I/I National Interscholastic Polo (High School)
English Western
Polo
Over 1,000 teams
Over 50 teams
Coed
Boys and girls
PHOTOS: LIZ SOROKA
EMILY RIDEN PHELPS MEDIA
At Lake Placid this year, the walk-trot division was a who’s-who of second-generation riders. Famous riders such as Molly Ashe Cawley, Holly Orlando, and Jimmy Torano looked on as their children demonstrated potential talent in their spor t. At right, Logan Orlando. Second row: Taylor Cawley and J.J. Torano. Bottom: Torano, Orlando, and Cawley line up for their awards.
WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 55
T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N Six young champions talk about life with horses and what being an equestrian means to them.
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CADE McCUTCHEON REINING At 14 years old, Cade McCutcheon has already accomplished a great deal as a rider. He is the son of reining industry leaders Mandy and Tom McCutcheon and grandson to champion reiners Colleen and Tim McQuay. Cade has become the third generation in his family to participate in a relatively young sport, and he is poised to become another success story. Like many kids his age, he is interested in a wide variety of sports and activities. He plays basketball, baseball and football. What sets Cade apart from the rest is that he has already found a level of success in one sport, reining, that some do not reach in a lifetime. His obvious passion and natural talent for reining are clear, and he never felt pressured into riding because of his family’s dynastic mastery of the sport. “When I have kids it will be up to them what they want to do. That’s what my parents did for me, and I am so thankful,” said Cade. In the past few years, Cade has collected several awards and honors, including breaking the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) record for youngest rider to make the L4 Non-Professional Futurity Finals at age 12 in 2012. “Horses have given me amazing opportunities to meet many people from other countries and to visit foreign countries,” he said. “I recently traveled to Normandy for the World Equestrian Games.” Cade looks to the future with lofty goals, including someday winning the L4 NonProfessional Futurity Finals before becoming an open rider and winning the NHRA Open Futurity Finals. He eventually hopes to continue on to a career as a reining horse trainer.
Read more about EQ’s visit with Cade’s family in the Winter 2013/14 issue at tinyurl.com/ reiningfamily
“My favorite part was the riding,” she went on. “It was pure and simple and primal. I had a horse, a stretch of endless land, and no trail to speak of except the one I made myself. It was freedom I’d never experienced before. I remember sitting easy in the saddle, reining my grey horse through a patch of prairie with the huge, blue sky above us, singing my derby anthem (“Wagon Wheel,” Bob Dylan), and watching foxes and huge golden eagles all around me. Every so often, we’d come upon a herd of wild
remember thinking that I wanted to do it,” she said, “but it was only when my history professor gave a stirring lecture on the Mongolian Conquest that I got up the nerve to apply.” In 2013, the summer before her last year of college, Devan rode the Mongol Derby. It is a seven-day, 700-mile race across the Mongolian steppe, widely known as one of the most difficult and rugged endurance rides in the world. The horses were Mongol Ponies somewhat owned by local herdsmen, but mostly wild. Every 25 miles, riders pass through an Urtuu, or vet check. The horse is evaluated by a vet, and then the riders can choose a different horse to continue riding. Each leg takes approximately three hours, but some were quite a bit slower. On average, Devan had time for four legs per day. “I could write a whole book about the horses—they’re nothing like domesticated horses. It takes a true partnership to get those guys to do what you want them to do. I was dumped, I got kicked, but eventually I was able to work with them. I learned a lot about horsemanship while I was there,” she said.
horses. To me that will always be paradise.” The fifth day of the derby is what Devan called “Hell Day.” She started the day off getting kicked, then got bucked off and had to hike six miles to catch her horse. “I was passed after leading the entire race,” she said, “and I also got the worst stomach flu I’ve ever had in my life, for which I was hospitalized when I got home. Still, I ended the day with a smile on my face and a large amount of pride, because the steppe had thrown everything it could at me that day and I’d still managed to ride 100 miles.” Devan finished the race first, but because her horse’s pulse rate was too high due to what she believes was a respiratory infection, she was given a two-hour penalty and ended up second. “I’ll never be able to top the Mongol Derby,” she said. “It is an experience that has taught me so much about the world, horses, and myself.” In the future, she hopes to explore more native horse cultures around the world. As to a second go at the derby? “It’s not out of the question,” she said. “I left part of my heart on the steppe.”
D
NATALIE JAYNE GRAND PONY HUNTER CHAMPION, PONY MEDALS FINAL 2104 atalie came into the spotlight this year as the Small Pony Hunter Champion at Pony Medal Finals. At 10 years old, she is a young rider that has already logged a lot of time in the saddle.“When I was a year old, my mom, who is a trainer, put me on a horse with her, and I’ve been hooked ever since!” she said. “Riding a lot can be hard sometimes, because I missed my cousin’s college graduation, birthday parties, and the entire second trimester at school and even Homecoming,” said Natalie. “My life is different from my friends that don’t ride, because sometimes I miss school and have to make up tests and do work when I am on the road.” But Natalie has plenty of friends that do ride, and they have a lot of fun together. “I have great friends at the barn,” she said.
N
EMILY RIDEN
DEVAN HORN ENDURANCE evan was born in Houston, Texas, but lived the first years of her life in New Jersey. She moved back to Houston at 7, and began riding. “I did my first 100-mile ride at 12 and never looked back,” she remembered. “I’ve always been the kind of rider who lives for the trail and hates arena work. That’s why endurance was so appealing for me.” When a friend ran the Mongol Derby in 2010, Devan’s interest was piqued by hearing his stories and tracking his winning ride. “I
“When we’re not riding, we like to climb trees, go to the water park, and play ‘horse’ by jumping kid jumps in the yard.” Despite the challenges of committing so much time to riding, Natalie shows no sign of slowing down. “Someday I would like to move into the grand prix circuit,” she said. Like many young riders, Natalie sees herself pursuing a career in the horse industry someday. “When I grow up, I’d like to be a rider and a trainer.” WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 57
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With any dream there are always sacrifices that have to be made. “I was fortunate enough to have been offered the opportunity to play volleyball or basketball in college,” said Anna. “Just as I had to make the decision about college, my trainer and I found my horse Sundayboy in Holland. I made the decision to become a full-time rider and study college online at night.” Her choice seems to have already paid off, as this year she was named the USEF Young Rider Dressage National Champion at the U.S. Dressage Festival of Champions. “Riding has definitely helped shape the person I am today,” she declared. “Not just riding, but also the entire aspect of horsemanship. There’s so much responsibility and hard work involved in taking care of another life. You have to be completely committed to both your horse and your dream in order to reach your goals. I can’t imagine a life without horses.” Anna’s goals for 2015 are to compete in the U25 division in hopes of qualifying for the U25 US National Championships or to qualify and compete in Europe next year. Her ultimate goal is to be an international-level rider, competing and medaling in the Olympics, at WEG, and at World Cups. “I definitely see myself in the sport long-term,” stated Anna. “I would love to be a trainer at my own barn one day.” DR. GEORGE KUNG
ANNA BUFFINI DRESSAGE nna was a competitive gymnast from the age of 3. By the time she was 9, she had won two California state titles, but injuries were starting to take a toll on her body, so she and her family agreed that she needed to find a new pastime. “My goals when I first started riding were to just stay on,” she said. “But I am extremely competitive, and a perfectionist by nature, so of course I wanted to work hard and become the best that I could be as a dressage rider and horsewoman. I love this sport in that there’s always more to learn and ways to improve, so I will continue training to be the best that I can be.” Anna has always had strong encouragment and support from her parents and siblings. “My dad is an Irish immigrant who came to America at 19. He embodies the characteristics of hard work, being relentless, and never giving up,” she explained. “My mother was on the Women’s National Volleyball Team from 1985 to 1998 and is in the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame as an All-American. She’s one of the most dedicated people I know. It’s so special that she’s lived the Olympic dream and can encourage me and give me advice on how to reach mine. My five brothers and sisters have all been home schooled like myself, and they’re extremely competitive, so they keep me on my toes. But they’re my best friends and biggest fans.”
JACOB ARNOLD COMBINED DRIVING rowing up near Southern Pines, North Carolina, Jacob first began in pleasure driving shows when he was 8 years old and had moved on to combined driving by the time he was 14. In February 2011, two weeks after turning 18, he won his first Single Horse International Carriage Driving Competition at the CAI-B Little Everglades International CDE at the Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City, Florida. Now, at 21, his career has already taken off, and he travels around the world as a top young driver. In 2011, Arnold received the Ruth O’Keefe Meredith Memorial Trophy as the USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year. He also won the American Driving Society’s (ADS) Combined Driving Event Youth Championship in 2011 and 2012. Recently, he won the marathon at the 2014 FEI World Driving Championships for Singles in Izsak, Hungary. Humble and hardworking, Arnold has a rising career that has caught the attention of many throughout the sport, including driving great Chester Weber. (See page 62)
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ALYSSA DANIELS POLO s with many young girls, Alyssa fell in love with horses before she could talk. She took her first riding lesson at 3 years old, and after a few years of hunter and equitation riding she decided to try polo. Before long, she became competitive, helping her team to win the Women’s Interscholastic National Championship during her junior year of high school. Since entering college, she has helped to develop an intercollegiate team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and she recently played for the winning college team at the Women’s Championship Tournament Arena Finals Tournament in Los Angeles.
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Alyssa Daniels’ team won the Women’s Championship Tournament Arena Finals this year.
Daniels considers her biggest accomplishment to be the result of her biggest setback. While riding on her high-school team, she began to have trouble with her shoulder. Eventually, a specialist told her that she needed to take four weeks of rest to heal what was becoming a recurring problem. After that month, she was told to wait another four weeks. The challenge of waiting on the sidelines for eight long weeks of watching her team play without her taught her patience and perserverence. “When I was able to start practicing again and gradually ramping up to full practices, I hit the ground running,” she said. “When we took home the Women’s Interscholastic National Champions trophy a
Weber saw the sport of driving as one with a need for younger people’s involvement. Because it is a sport that many adopt after they stop riding, the average age of top drivers is generally much higher than that of riders. “It’s hard,” said Weber. “The combined driving sport is very complicated, and top drivers need lots of support behind them. The federation put together a developing-driver program to take newer talented people, and I thought there was a place in our organization for someone to help us and also to compete on his own.” Thus, Arnold joined Weber early in 2014 at Grand Oaks in Ocala, Florida to work, learn, and drive. This year with Chester has been a very successful one for Jacob. He placed seventh in the world championships and was the best-placed American. He won the marathon and was the first American to ever win singles. “He’s twice as knowledgeable as he was this time last year, and he had a lot of experience then,” said Weber. “His learning curve is very exciting.”
couple months later, it made it all worth it.” Daniels is certain that riding has changed her life. “Polo has given me the chance to grow into the person I am today. My childhood was different from my friends’ who did not ride, because once I was on the varsity polo team, there were a lot of weekends and nights when I couldn’t just hang out with friends like they were doing,” she said. “While this was tough sometimes, it was absolutely worth it. The thrill I got from playing for the national championship in eighth grade was beyond anything I had ever experienced. I would not have traded my childhood with horses, and the responsibility of having horses, for anything.”
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IT’S NOT JUST TOP HATS AND LAP ROBES.
THE EXCITING SPORT OF CARRIAGE DRIVING BY VICKI NELSON BODOH
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he sport of carriage driving developed when the leisure class no longer used carriages exclusively for transportation. Rather than have a coachman do the driving, gentlemen and, to some extent, ladies mounted the “box seat” (driver’s seat), took the “ribbons” (lines or reins) and headed for the park (Central or Hyde or Bois de Boulogne) to see and be seen. High-stepping horses were turned out with beautiful harnesses and put to lovely carriages. These equipages showed off the driver’s skill and the passengers’ latest fashions. In the Gilded Age, gentlemen such as Alfred Vanderbilt drove private road coaches put to a team of four horses on pleasure expeditions lasting several days. Following World War I, as the automobile became the preferred form of transportation, carriages were pushed to the back of the carriage house, which quickly became a garage. By the 1950s few carriages remained, and almost none were being driven. However, a group of horse lovers in the Pennsylvania area kept carriage driving alive at the Devon Horse Show. The sport of gentlemen started to regain popularity. At a time when speed is of the essence in both communication and travel, why does this sport steeped in tradition continue to grow? There are several factors that promote carriage driving as another way in which to use and enjoy horses. For the horse owner who has members of the family who do not ride, a carriage drive, complete with a picnic lunch, may be a way to involve them. Men not involved with horses might enjoy the mechanics of the carriage—the predecessor of the automobile. Women not involved with horses might love the opportunity to wear a beautiful hat and may find that carriages are as interesting as many other types of antiques. For the baby boomer beginning to find riding uncomfortable, carriage driving may offer a welcome change. Even after a drive of many miles,
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descending from a carriage is about the same as getting out of an automobile. Driving is possible well into advanced age for both the horse and the driver. For the horse retired from the show ring or other forms of competition, there is something better than being put out to pasture with no further duties. This is the perfect time to give an older mount a new lease on life. Carriage driving, with no rider on an old horse’s back, is comfortable for the horse. Traveling down the road gives the horse a new focus and the enjoyment of being out and about. For the sadly outgrown pony too small for a growing child, carriage driving may be a second chance to stay with its owner. For the favorite
Chester Weber at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France.
horse whose rider has left for college, carriage driving might provide a new career for the horse and an activity to fill the parents’ empty nest. For equine enthusiasts who enjoy beautiful surroundings, most carriage drives and competitions take place in lovely venues—parks, private estates, quiet country roads. Driving at a trot allows everyone in the carriage to thoroughly enjoy this beauty. Carriage drivers rely heavily on tradition from the late 1800s and pride themselves on presenting a pleasant and safe picture. They take great pains to maintain their polished antique and reproduction carriages put to sleek, shiny horses whose harness hardware catches the sunlight as they trot. Attention to details is the essence of a correct turnout (horse,
harness, carriage, driver, passengers and grooms). Choosing a carriage that is proper for the type of driving to be done, choosing a horse that is the type required for that carriage, choosing a harness that is correct for the carriage and horse, and choosing the clothing and hats for driver, groom, and passengers are all part of these details.
Vicki Nelson Bodoh drives fifth generation large ponies from her parents’ breeding program. She is an honorary life director and former president of the Carriage Association of America. Vicki lives in Wisconsin and writes for several equine and driving publications. Correct carriage driving turnout is one of her passions. WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 61
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DRIVING AMBITION:
AT HOME WITH CHESTER WEBER BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS FOR EQ BY GEORGE KAMPER
Chester Weber’s name is synonymous with four-in-hand driving throughout the world. He had an incredible season in 2014, with consecutive wins at the Kingdom of the Sun CDE, Live Oak International CHI, Royal Windsor Horse Show CHI, and Saumur CAIO. His summer European tour in 2014 was capped by making history as the first American to win the four-in-hand division at the prestigious CHIO Aachen and taking the individual silver medal at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France.
but a green cow pasture, and after the show it’s back to a field again, he said. “We try to avoid concrete and permanent structures.” He and his wife, My, recently built a beautiful home on the property—just in time to welcome their new son, Douglas, born in the middle of August. The spacious home is appointed with sophisticated artwork and furnishings, and the many inviting terraces evoke images of hours spent enjoying evening breezes and pitchers of sweet tea.
ass through the entrance gate of Live Oak Stud in Ocala, Florida, and accept the fact that you’ve entered into a place of wonder. Continue driving along acres of shaded lanes that twist and turn past manicured lawns, reflection ponds, majestic oak trees laden with Spanish moss, and you’ll understand why the combined-driving champion has chosen this mesmerizing setting as his base of operation. Chester’s family has been at the 4,700-acre farm just over 45 years. “We’re a real horse family,” Chester said. “My sister and I host the Live Oak International Show together, and she also was chairman of the board of the Washington International Horse Show. My niece rode on a few tours for the U.S. team this summer, and my wife shows jumpers up to the grand prix level.” Chester’s mother, Charlotte Colket Weber, a devoted equestrian, also maintains a home on the property. There are 300 horses at Live Oak Farm, many of which are Charlotte’s Thoroughbreds. She was headed to the Breeders Cup in Santa Anita, California, shortly after our visit, and has run some of her horses in the Kentucky Derby. An added dimension to this equestrian-lover’s paradise is a commercial cattle operation. The cow fields offer something else as well. For more than 20 years, they have been the site of the annual March Live Oak International, a horse show featuring combined driving and show jumping. Chester calls the show “green-to-green.” “Before the show there is nothing
CHEST ER’S WIN NI NG A P P ROAC H
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We visited with Chester at his barn to learn more about the sport of combined driving and how he has developed such an accomplished career. He had recently returned from his European competitions in England, Germany, and the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Normandy, France. He was relaxed and eager to share a bit about his career and vision for what’s next. “We had a great summer of competition,” Weber said. “We finished up number one in the world-cup rankings, but we never actually won a world championship,” he added. “I have a collection of silver medals—the bridesmaid prizes.” Chester started riding in high school. His father had a love of Clydesdales and had one as a riding horse. Chester said, “It wasn’t a very good riding horse, so we decided to get a carriage. We drove around the farm together, and eventually I started driving too.” He drove singles and pairs until his good friend Tucker Johnson, a four-in-hand combined-driving legend, talked him into switching to four-in-hand. Weber explained, “Tucker retired in 2010, but he is still chairman of the driving committee. We’ve had a lot of fun and success together.” T HE EQU INE T EAM
Chester’s horses—essential to the success of his program— enjoy a peaceful life at Live Oak. “Traveling, especially by air, is stressful for the horses and often filled with loud and strange sounds,” Chester said. “They seem to enjoy coming back to the familiar environment of their quiet barn.” The 14-stall barn, built in phases starting in the 1960s, is
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Live Oak Stud is a Spanish-mossdraped, 4,700-acre paradise, This page: the new home that Chester and his wife, My, recently completed on the property. Opposite, upper right: Chester’s small, cozy, and amazingly neat barn. Young driver, Jacob Arnold, works for Chester and competes on his own. (see page 58)
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charming and modest. Chester wryly commented, “Architecturally it seems to make do.” “We try to offer the horses, whoever they are, what they need to reach their fullest potential, whether it’s the best care, veterinarians, or blacksmiths,” Chester added. “Our records on the horses are well kept and looked after carefully.” We were curious about the duration of a driving horse’s career, and Chester offered an example. “WEG takes place every four years. One of my horses was in Aachen, Germany, in 2006 and is better today than he was then. We use Dutch horses bred for years with a pedigree for driving. We aren’t looking for good horses, we are looking for great horses,” Chester smiled. How a driver guides a four-in-hand in dressage, without actually touching the horse, was a mystery to us. Chester explained he has to control the horses with only his voice and the reins. He said, “A lot comes from fundamental work. I start by training horses individually. I begin with longeing, then double longeing, then I try single driving, then pair, and finally a team.” He added, “These horses’ fundamentals are very strong.” He takes five horses 66 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
Above: Chester at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France. Left: The “green-to- green” Live Oak driving and jumper show. Opposite, above: With Jamaica. Weber says, “I went to see the horse with Michael Freund in 2001. Jamaica was in a feedlot going to slaughter, but he had ringworm, so they needed to get him out.The owner heard that he could drive, so they looked for someone to take him. The man who took him saw the horse’s ability and called me. Jamaica was all-discipline Horse of the Year in 2008, and has four national championships. He was with me at my first WEG in 2002, and the world championships in 2004, and 2006 Aachen. Now he lives a well-earned, relaxed life in the field. He is a Breyer Horse, and he has his own Facebook page.” Opposite, right: As we drove to the field to visit Jamaica, Chester stopped to rescue a turtle crossing the road.
to a competition and can switch them for dressage, marathon, or the obstacles course. “I try not to have one-hit wonders that are only great at one phase,” he said. DR IV IN G A H EA D
Most people who are really successful in medal winning and on the international stage have serious support behind them. For Chester, that’s his sponsor Jane Forbes Clark, his team at home, and Michael Freund, the U.S. team coach. “We’re always working together and planning what the next step for our program is, and evaluating if we’re on the right track,” Chester said. “The burning desire to be successful is in everyone who works here.” Four-in-hand is a physically demanding sport. “Age and wisdom are invaluable. On the other side you have youth and athleticism, and at some place those have to cross. Champion show jumper Kent Farrington is in the gym every day, and I am too,” Chester said. “It’s just part of my job. But it’s very mental, too, so we have mental trainers in our program. It’s a way of life and a mindset. Talent is all for nothing without the mental ability, confidence, patience, and humility.”
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This page: The Weber’s newly completed home. My introduces Douglas, only 7 weeks old when we visited. Opposite page: Chester’s office/den with trophy-lined walls. Chester, My, son Douglas, and Steffi the dog. 68 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
Chester used the Chicago Bulls as an example of the benefits of mental discipline. “Michael Jordan was mentally calm, but he was also able to be on a team with Dennis Rodman. If you put most great athletes in any sport around greatness, they develop,” Chester added. “That’s what we hope for with our apprentice program.” One of the challenges Chester and his team have in the driving sport is encouraging young people. “They think driving is what you do after you are too old for riding,” Weber said. “There’s a lack of development of young people.” He is working with the team coach on developing a program of younger drivers to build the skills and support necessary to compete in the complicated sport. One promising young driver currently working with Chester’s four-in-hand program is Jacob Arnold. (See Young Riders, page 58) “I’d like to help mentor Jacob through his own driving program,” Chester said. Ultimately, Chester’s first priority for the driving program is the success of the sport. “I never said no when someone has asked for help,” he said. “If someone is passionate about the sport, I’m always happy to help.”
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Lisa and Rollie; the sun-filled upstairs
AT HOME WITH HARVEY AND MARY WALLER. studio (Far right).
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Above: 1. Mary Stokes Waller and her Corgi, Fiona. Opposite page: 2. The main barn at Orleton Farm. 3. The pet parrot enjoys the view from the porch. 4. Harvey and Mary heading to Stockbridge during coaching days. 5. Some of the barns and buildings housing the carriage collection. 6. Living room windows look out on one of the driving arenas, with a backdrop of the Berkshire Mountains.
BY BETSY STEIN
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s soon as you turn into the drive between the stone walls and flower pots, you have a feeling of going back in time. The Massachusetts Berkshires were the place to come and be seen driving your horse and carriage during the Gilded Age of the late 19th century, and large estates and elegant carriage houses provided the perfect setting. Summer residents would be met at the Stockbridge train station and be transported by the family horse and carriage to their “cottages.” Orleton Farm has been a part of that tradition for over 100 years, but there is nothing gilded or ornate about the farm. New England simplicity and beauty surround you. Majestic old trees, manicured fields, and the Berkshire Mountains are a perfect background. Owners Harvey and Mary Waller came out
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from working in the stable to greet us. Harvey is welcoming, then off to work. Mary and Harvey met while riding with Norfield Farm’s trainers for the Florida Hunter Jumper Circuit in the mid ‘80s. Harvey built their house and uses his building talents and construction company to recondition the farm for their driving needs. After a proper introduction to the personalities of each of the 11 horses and 5 ponies, all of whom are groomed impeccably, Mary can’t wait to begin the tour of the antique coach, carriage, harness, and appointments collection. The coaches and carriages are magnificently displayed in the multiple barns that have been specially restored to house them. Among the many vehicles is a Bugatti coach originally made for Ettore Bugatti. A unique harness adorned with Bugatti’s initials and brow bands in black and yellow, which were his racing
colors, hangs in a custom-built cabinet. The hardware, hames, and turrets are all silver clad, and the bits and bridoons are stamped Hermès, Paris. Nearby is the well-known Old Times Coach that is famous for having set a record in 1888 for making the round trip between London and Brighton in under eight hours. The 52-mile trip generally required about 14 hours. Although the many beautifully restored and maintained carriages are displayed in museum fashion, they are driven by Mary and Harvey Waller. The stable of carefully chosen and trained horses proudly pull the vehicles around the farm’s 200 acres of carriage roads and fields or work in one of the two oversized arenas to prepare for events and competitions. Orleton Farm in Stockbridge is also the home of the Colonial Carriage and Driving Society, which sponsors annual pleasure driv-
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ing shows, sleigh rallies, coaching days, and the “Horse Power meets Horsepower Days” gathering of vintage automobiles. Mary and Harvey are principals in the Colonial Carriage endeavor, passionate about preserving the area’s history and promoting the traditions and fine art of driving horse drawn carriages. Perhaps the reason Mary is so passionate about the history and traditions of the area is because she grew up as part of it. The carriage collection is particularly special because it contains many carriages that have been in Mary’s
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1. An antique smoker that was filled with cigarettes and cigars and passed around after dinner for the gentlemen to enjoy with their brandy in the library, while the women sat in the salon to chat, stitch, or read poetry. 2. The famous Old Times coach. 3. One of the many wonderful family por traits adorning the walls is Mary’s great grandmother, Helen Phelps Stokes. 4. An Opera Coach that was originally owned by Mrs. Alfred Corning Clark, of the founding family of Singer sewing machines. 5. A figure of Ettore Bugatti stands by the carriage made for him. 6. The stag used for the harness medallions is from the Stokes coat-of-arms, and is a symbol of “policy, peace, and harmony.”
family for generations, from both the Stokes and the Proctor sides of her family. Mary’s great-grandfather, Harley T. Proctor (of Proctor & Gamble) bought the farm in 1901. In 1893, Anson Phelps Stokes, Mary’s grandfather, a banker with interests in mining and railroads, built one of the largest estates in America. Sadly, it burned to the ground in 1956. The walls of the Waller home are covered with antique oil portraits of ancestors. Like the farm itself, they are a blend of historic elegance and New England simplicity.
THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.
A DRIVING SAMPLER
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CARRIAGE PLEASURE-DRIVING COMPETITIONS have a variety
of classes and divisions for antique and reproduction carriages. Arena classes include reinsmanship (similar to equitation with the main focus on the driver),working (the main focus on the horse) and turnout (the focus on the overall correctness—horses, harness, carriage, driver, passengers, and grooms). Obstacle classes are driven both in and out of the arena and are judged on speed and accuracy. Divisions within the show are based on the configuration of horses (single, pair, tandem, team); size (horse, pony, VSE); experience of horse or driver (maiden, novice); age of driver (junior, open or “old guard”); and/or type of carriage (gig, runabout, coach, road cart). Within a division there may be specialty classes. For instance, the coaching division (open to park drags, private coaches, and road coaches, and requiring a team of four horses) may have an appointments class (all of the required equipment including built-in boxes containing china and crystal, champagne on ice, and a picnic lunch) or a coach horn-sounding class.
1. Sporting Day of Traditional Driving with Vicki Nelson Bodoh at the Kentucky Horse Park. Photo by Tony D’antonio. 2. Joe Jennings driving at Shelburne Farms, Vt. Photo by Bob Mischka. 3. Mar tha Stover driving a village cart. Photo by Bob Mischka. 4. Carson Kressley driving in a Saddlebred breed show. 5. Vicki Nelson Bodoh driving at Villa Louis Carriage Classic. Photo by Bob Mischka. 6. Combined driving (marathon). Photo Bob Mischka.
Another type of competition is a SPORTING DAY OF TRADITIONAL DRIVING where
each driver competes against an ideal score in a turnout inspection, a country drive, and road-cone obstacles. It preserves and celebrates the carriage-driving style of bygone days and encompasses horsemanship, driving acumen, care and preservation of carriage and harness, and the intangible qualities of good sportsmanship.
A more modern approach to competition is a COMBINED DRIVING EVENT. Based on a three-day riding event, the rules were formulated in the 1970s under the leadership of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. The three phases of the event include dressage, a cross-country marathon of 8 to18 km (with gated obstacles rather than jumps), and pairs of roadcone obstacles driven for speed and accuracy (rather than stadium jumping). The scores are combined to give a final result. In all three phases, scores and times are converted into penalty points, which are then added together. This means that the competitor with the lowest penalty score is the winner. These events have training, preliminary, intermediate, and advanced levels for singles, pairs, and teams of both horses and ponies. The FEI has advanced competitions internationally and at the World Equestrian Games. Modern vehicles with state-of-the-art suspension, steering, and hydraulic brakes are used for the marathon, and modernpresentation vehicles are used for dressage and cones.
BREED HORSE SHOWS also have classes for carriage-driving competition. Most light-horse breeds and most pony breeds have a few carriage classes within their shows. Draft horse shows and mule shows also have carriage-driving classes. JUST FOR FUN, there are lots of recreational drives that those who do not want to participate in competition can enjoy. Most states have several driving clubs that get together for monthly meetings and drives. Sometimes the drives have a theme such as a scavenger hunt, but often they are just a fun way to enjoy a scenic area. Usually they end with a potluck picnic. One of the largest and best attended recreational drives is the six-day National Drive at the Kentucky Horse Park each October.
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THE FAMOUS CARRIAGE ROADS OF ACADIA, MAINE.
MR. ROCKEFELLER’S ROADS
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questrian Quarterly readers may recall our visit to Eileen Rockefeller’s home in northern Vermont in the Summer 2014 issue, where she took us driving with her Morgan pair. Eileen and her father, David Rockefeller, Sr., are lovers of the sport of driving. This is a love that has been passed down through the generations from John D. Rockefeller Sr., Eileen’s greatgrandfather and the founder of Standard Oil. Many equestrians are familiar with the beautiful 57-mile carriage-road network that John Jr., financed and engineered throughout Maine’s Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. During our visit with Eileen in EQ’s summer issue, she invited us to Maine for a
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carriage drive on “Mr. Rockefeller’s Roads,” as they are known locally. We instantly accepted. The early Rockefellers had a love of conservation and donated land for many U.S. National Parks, including Grand Teton, Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, Shenandoah, and Acadia. The family’s appreciation of the area began when John Jr. bought a summer home in Seal Harbor in 1910. He dreamed of building wide carriage roads through the most scenic areas of the island, with perfect footing, granite bridges, and no motor vehicles, much as his father had created on his private estates in Ohio and New York. After visiting Eileen’s understated and cozy home (next page) and barn on the Seal
Opposite page and above: Eileen Rockefeller takes EQ for a tour of the carriage roads with her Morgan pair. Below left: Eileen’s relaxed and simple carriage barn.
Harbor coast, we climbed aboard her carriage and toured some of the roads. As we passed forests, lakes, and meadows, we learned that the Acadia carriage roads are approximately 16-feet wide, and their construction required much hand labor. Because of the wet climate, the roads have three layers of stone, stone culverts, and a six-to-eight-inch crown for good drainage. They were carefully planned to be neither too steep nor too sharply curved for horse-drawn carriages. Large, hand-cut blocks of granite line the roads as guardrails, and 16 stone-faced bridges cross streams, waterfalls, and roads. Eileen’s father, David, recalled in 2009, “In my early days as an 8- or 10-year old, I re-
member [my father] going out walking with an engineer and laying out the roads. Once they were built, he took me horseback riding with him to enjoy the opening they gave people to the beautiful countryside.” After years of riding horses, David, now 99 years old said, “Now I have come to enjoy carriage driving. First my wife, Peggy, took up driving, and then, when she died, I continued to drive horses myself. So I, too, have brought horses and carriages up to Maine and drive here for the summer at least two to four times per week, just the same as my father did.” Horse riders and drivers alike come from around America to enjoy Mr. Rockefeller’s Roads. In 1994 members of the American Driving Society came to Acadia from 24 states with their horses and carriages to properly celebrate the Park’s carriage-road renaissance. David Rockefeller added, “I think Father would be very pleased [the roads] have been restored and are now being well maintained and used in very much the same way they were when he was alive.” PAGE 110 WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 75
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Opposite page: Eileen’s carefully groomed moss and evergreen forests have a zen tranquility. This page: Inside, the simple cottage on the Maine coast is warm and welcoming. VISIT EILEEN AT HER VERMONT HOME equestrianquarterly.com/rockefeller
10 Editor’s note: Two weeks after we interviewed Misdee, she won the 2014 USEF National Pairs Championship.
How did your love of horses begin?
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Who have been your mentors in the sport?
QUESTIONS WITH
MISDEE WRIGLEY MILLER
grew up on a cattle ranch in Arizona, always with horses around. My interest in the horses actually kept me out of trouble when I was growing up—I was so busy training and going to horse shows.
WITH BETSY STEIN
Oh, I loved Arabian horses. Did you ever consider doing anything else besides work with horses?
How did you end up in Kentucky?
I came for a visit in the early ‘80s, and I first saw all the bluegrass fields. I knew some day I’d want to live there. The Kentucky Horse Park played a huge role making the decision to move here. It just made sense, if I wanted to be in the horse business, to live in “horse heaven.” Tell us about Hillcroft.
In 2000, I bought land in Paris, Kentucky, near Lexington. It has always been my dream to help preserve land. When I met my husband, land conservation was a priority to him as well, and we were able to buy some adjoining fields and expand. We have miles and miles of trails for riding and driving. In addition to my 78 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
Chester Weber and Misdee Wrigley Miller at the Live Oak competition. Photo: Driving Digest.
Dutch harness horses, we have a polo program, my husband raises American Saddlebred horses, and we also farm the land, growing hay and soybeans. My dream is that long after we are gone, people will be able to visit Hillcroft Farm and learn to love the land as much as we do. I gave it the name of my grandparents’ farm in Wisconsin to honor them for having taught me about tradition and stewardship. How did the transition from riding to driving happen?
I inherited two beautiful antique carriages from my great-grandfather in 1998, so I decided to learn about driving, and loved it.
Let’s talk WEG in France! Was it amazing? You were one of only three women competing to finish and helped the American team finish in fourth overall.
Definitely the best thing I have ever done—absolutely unreal from start to finish. I would do it again in a heartbeat! It was kind of a pefect storm. Everything just fell into place. I actually hadn’t driven a four-in-hand before last December. The world championships in Caen 2014 was our debut! It all started in Aachen when I went to watch Chester (Weber). If you’d asked me then if I would have been driving a four-in-hand in Normandy, I would have said “no!” I couldn’t have done it without my incredible husband’s support and blessing. He was great! I had to live in Germany from April to September and only came home for 10 days in between. We moved to Europe lock, stock, and barrel—horses, carriages, staff, equipment— everything you could possibly think of was stuffed onto those planes. It was quite an under-
What kind of showing were you doing?
I actually went to journalism school and worked as a production assistant at a local PBS station. After a few years at that job, I was offered a great job in New York. But I realized I couldn’t leave my horses, so I left the news business and started working for the family farm, training and managing. I also began producing marketing videos for other farms.
Michael Freund and Chester Weber.
taking. What kind of carriage did you drive in the WEG Dressage?
It is a carriage that was previously owned by Tucker Johnson, fashioned after an antique coach carriage. Do you have a favorite phase in combined driving?
I love the dressage phase; it is definitely my favorite. I love the elegance and the preciseness of it. In every test I aspire to get everything as perfect as I can. I guess my horse-show background taught me about attention to detail, and I took those lessons to heart.
STEVE HOLM is a carriage pleasure-driving judge and coachman to famous whips SALLY BUSCH WHEELER of Cismont Manor, DAVID AND MARGARET ROCKEFELLER of Hudson Pines, and KAREN WALDRON of Bent Tree Farm.
TANDEM DRIVING PHOTO: TONY D’ANTONIO.
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A JUDGE’S EYE Harness HARDWARE (brass or white our necessities metal) should match the bright metal are part of the on the carriage. turnout for the driver: apron, The carriage determines the TYPE OF WHAT I LOOK FOR. whip, hat, and HORSE to be put to it. A formal park gloves. These carriage requires a horse with style, four items have presence, elegance, and an elevated trot. Likewise, an American runabout their origins in history and safety. They must be or buggy needs a well-mannered horse with a ground-covering walk and present to be judged during competition. trot. • The DRIVING APRON serves to keep the driver’s clothing clean. APPOINTMENTS on the carriage include wet-weather string gloves; Because the apron is not part of the driver’s clothing but belongs to the lamps (pre-1915, candle; post-1915, oil); a tool kit (spares) with wheel carriage, it should match or harmonize with the carriage upholstery. wrench, harness repair items, and horseshoe with nails; and a stick basket (on large sporting vehicles) to hold umbrellas and walking sticks for pas• The WHIP is an extension of the driver’s arm and is used to guide the sengers. horse as a heel would do when riding. The thong should be long enough to touch the shoulder of the horse, well balanced, and always “in hand.” Pairs of horses require a GROOM or a competent passenger to assist if needed, and a team (four) requires two grooms. • The HAT keeps sun off the head and out of the eyes in fair weather and keeps the head warm in cold weather. It keeps hair neat and tidy while Driver, passengers, and grooms should be DRESSED in a style that driving. complements the carriage. Men wear business suits with ties; women wear long-sleeved dresses or suits. • The DRIVER’S GLOVES are brown leather. They prevent blisters and provide a better hold on the lines and feel of the horse’s mouth. When formal park carriages are shown in the evening, CARRIAGE LAMPS are lighted and men are in black or white tie, women in evening gowns Painted carriages should have black HARNESS and varnished carriages and without hats. may have either black or brown harness depending on the type of leather trimming the carriage.
IN MY OPINION
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ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST CARRIAGE COLLECTIONS.
GRAND OAKS CARRIAGE MUSEUM
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One of the various colorful Gypsy wagons.
Circa-1700 Chinese road cart. Left: The 1785 Sediola takes its name from the Italian word for chair. It had room for one and was seen mainly around the streets of Vienna. This is one of eight remaining in the world.
COME VISIT AND BRING YOUR HORSES Opposite page: 1. Laureen Oliver, Grand Oaks chief financial officer, and Tom Warriner, vice president and general manager, try out some of the more than 160 vehicles in the museum. 2, 4 A dress chariot by coach-builder Armbruster in the early 1840s for Emperor Joseph of Austria, where it traveled the streets of Vienna to greet subjects. 3. Buttons defined the pecking order of coachmen and grooms. A Coachman had six buttons in front and four in back, while a footman had five in front and six in back. 5. A circa-1900 oil wagon, typical of early commercial and work vehicles. 6. The 1880s park drag was a Sunday family coach when picnics in the park were the thing to do and be seen. 7. The 1885 Rockaway from Pennsylvania was a distinctly American carriage and is representative of a democratic feeling because of the protection given to the driver and the fact that it actually could be ownerdriven or driven by a servant.
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n Florida, between fun-filled Orlando and the horse world of Ocala, is a must-see destination for equestrians. The Grand Oaks Resort in Weirsdale offers drivers, polo players, riders of many discplines, and their horses accommodations (many with attached private barns) for both short- and long-term visits. It’s also the site of the Florida Carriage Museum, which since 1995 has been home to one of the world’s largest private collections of carriages and equine artifacts that is open to the public. Visitors to the museum step back in time and enjoy the elegance and pageantry of over 160 European and American carriages, including an elaborate 1840s Armbruster Dress Chariot once owned by Emperor of Austria, Franz Joseph, and his wife, Elisabeth. Guests have a rare opportunity to see an English Omnibus, horse-drawn fire-fighting apparatus, a World War I supply wagon, the colorful and ornate Sicilian Caretta, and a Dutch Tikker. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful grounds for a day with a $35 museum pass, a carriage ride, and brunch.
Laureen Oliver, a 30-year veteran of financial management as well as Golisano’s running mate in his New York state gubernatorial campaign, is leading the project. She is joined by Tom Warriner, an accomplished carriage driver and polo player and an expert in the worlds of both horses and luxury real estate. Tom has added new facilities and arenas for hunter jumper shows, dressage, combined driving, and polo. A new 54,000 square-foot covered arena, bar, restaurant, spa, Orvis shop, and over $3 million in footing, fencing, and irrigation has just been completed.
WE’L L F I L L YO U I N. Warriner introduced EQ editor Stephanie Peters to combined driving.
BU IL DING A DEST INAT ION RESORT AT T HE MU SEU M
In 2011, a major upgrade of the resort was launched with Tom Golisano’s purchase of the 400-acre property. Golisano, a billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, is the founder and chairman of Paychex, Inc., the nation’s second largest payroll processor. His close associate,
The EQ team was amazed by our visit to Grand Oaks. Laureen and Tom invited us to stay a few days in one of the 29 guest cottages, many with a private barn and paddock attached. We gladly accepted. So look forward to an upcoming EQ feature on this unique escape for you and your horses.
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THE ENDURING HORSE FORMS OF
STEPHANIE REVENNAUGH
“From riding the neighbor’s horses as a child, to showing jumpers in South America, to working with hunter jumper and dressage barns in Colorado, my world has often revolved around horses. The years spent soaking in their presence make artistic expression through the equine form my native language.” Stephanie Revennaugh
BY RENEE SPURGE PHOTOS AUDREY HALL PHOTOGRAPHY
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Elegant Repose, bronze, 9” x 7.5” x 2.5”
orn of an ongoing love affair with horses and their complex and sensitive nature, Stephanie Revennaugh’s collection of multi-media sculptures and paintings are as quietly mysterious and beautiful as she is herself. As an avid equestrian and lover of anything horse related, I was immediately drawn to the exquisite detail and mysticism of her artwork. I had the pleasure of meeting Stephanie at the Flintridge Riding Club in Los Angeles, California, earlier this year, where her enchanting bronzed sculptures were displayed throughout the horse-show grounds. Each sculpture demanded my attention as I noticed they captured the same essence of these beloved creatures we have spent most of our lives attending to. While primarily working out of her studio in Livingston, Montana, and showing her collection in several galleries throughout the
United States, Stephanie has popped up at various California horse shows, including the Sacramento International Horse Show at the Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center. As horse shows become more and more sophisticated here in the U.S., it follows suit that the vendors attending these events will include accomplished artisans. Stephanie admits that “presenting work at horse shows to an audience who thoroughly understands the subject is a vulnerable place.” However, the overwhelming positive reaction she has received from the equestrian community is validation that her pieces evoke the same emotional connection we have to our horses. She adds, “Bringing my work to an equestrian audience feels like coming home to me.” I love that Stephanie brings some of her works-in-progress to the shows, permitting a unique behind-the-scenes view of her creative process. Her sculptures, which begin with a constructed metal armature, are modeled with an oil-based clay that does not harden or dry out—allowing the opportunity for horse and WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 83
Precarious, bronze, 56” x 36” x 6”
Beautiful Together, bronze, 9” x 24” x 4”
Olympia, bronze, 12” x 9” x 4”
art enthusiasts to see the intricacies of her sculpting before the pieces become immortalized in bronze. These raw-formed sculptures emanate so much life and movement that onlookers cannot help but touch them, as if they can feel the spirit of the horse coming to life under their fingertips. There is also an expressive symmetry in her collections. Stephanie explains, “Each piece begins with either a gesture that inspires me or a feeling I'd like to express. One sculpture may be about solitude and introspection, and I'll balance that work with a piece about companionship and caring for one another.” One of my personal favorites is Stephanie’s piece, Beautiful Together. It was inspired by a herd of horses she observed on a hilltop, with a Montana road as their backdrop. One can almost see through the artist’s eyes and fully appreciate her vision of “sky shining through countless legs, contrasted by dark figures
connected as a single mass. The negative spaces create a rhythm while the characters sing the lyrics.” Her paintings also have a complexity and depth, in part due to her use of an encaustic technique that essentially “burns in” the essence of each subject with a blend of beeswax, damar resin, and pigment on cradled-birch panels. Stephanie fuses layer after layer of the wax medium with a torch, allowing a range of effects, from a smooth, glass-like appearance to a multi-textured finish. Stephanie’s expression thrives on the versatility of materials at her disposal, and we can expect to see more mixed-media sculpture and work on a larger scale in the coming years. Her art is also crossing continents, and next spring her pieces will be featured at the U.K. gallery, Sculpture by the Lakes as part of an equinethemed group show. PAGE 110
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S C OT T S DA L E Known as
THE WEST’S MOST WESTERN TOWN ,
this modern city has managed to preserve its cowboy roots while kickin’ up some uptown style.
BY HOLLI GALLÚN AND STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
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o experience Scottsdale, Arizona, in February leaves little room to wonder why the city’s founder, Winfield Scott, was so taken with the valley during his first
visit in February 1888. By July of that year, Scott would purchase 640 acres of land, known today as downtown Scottsdale, to start a farming operation and invite his family, friends, and neighbors to head west and join him. The steady growth of farming and ranching operations established the heart and soul of the West’s Most Western Town. And while that slogan may invoke visions of roughnecks, gunfights, and barroom brawls, the beauty of the Sonoran Desert immediately began to attract artists, writers, architects, and developers from around the world, quickly shaping Scottsdale into a buzzing and sophisticated hub of arts and culture.
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1. The recently renovated 386-acre WestWorld Equestrian Center. 2, 3. Spectators enjoy equestrian competition at the Arabian Horse Show. 4,5. Impressive sculptures greet visitors at WestWorld’s building and complex entrances. 6. Show entrants create vivid displays at their temporary barns. 7. There are plenty of shopping options along the rows of WestWorld vendors.
WESTWORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER
WESTWORLD HAS BECO ME T HE HEART OF T HE SCOTTSDALE HORSE COMMU N IT Y.
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rank Lloyd Wright, one of the greatest architects of the 20th century, was captivated by the desert landscape when he visited Scottsdale in 1928 to consult on the design of the Arizona Biltmore. He was so enchanted by the allure of the desert that in 1937, at the age of 70, he returned to build Taliesin West. Originally his residence and school, the property at the base of the McDowell Mountains now serves as the winter campus of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture. But Wright was not the first to be inspired. The area’s earliest artists date back to the ancient Hohokam in 300 B.C. The tribe’s original rock art is displayed on the boulders and cliff walls of the city’s McDowell Mountain Preserve and is enjoyed by hikers, trail riders, and visitors from both the U.S. and abroad. Today’s flourishing arts district in downtown Scottsdale boasts more than 125 galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way showcasing local, regional, national, and international artists. A broad spectrum of styles ranges from Western to contemporary and from realism to impressionism.
H O R S E S A N D SCOTTSDALE
Of course, what would a Western town be without horses? Horses have played a key role in the history, development, and culture of Scottsdale since the city’s early farming and ranching days and remain integral to a large population of equestrian enthusiasts today. Neighborhoods in some of the most sought-after residential areas in Scottsdale still maintain horse privileges. It’s not unusual to see single-family homes with horses in their backyards and neighborhood parks with riding arenas. Polo player Natalie Grancharov enjoys living in one of these equestrian enclaves. “We can ride within a community and into a park 88 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
with lit arenas, grass basins, and interweaving trails,” Grancharov says. “It’s horsey heaven!” Riders enjoy countless trails in and around Scottsdale. There are 120 miles of multi-use pathways in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve alone. The area also offers a number of horse stables that cater to all levels of riding abilities and can provide guided tours. Celebrating 62 years in March, Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol is one of the oldest officially sanctioned rodeos in the nation. The Parada del Sol parade, which marches down Scottsdale Road, is claimed by its organizers to be the world’s largest western-themed parade. This Scottsdale tradition, along with numerous high-profile equestrian events, equine-inspired public art installations, and open-land preservation, all serve as perfect examples of the city’s ongoing commitment to preserving its equinerich heritage. T HE ARABIAN INFL U ENCE
When talking about equine influences in Scottsdale, one cannot overlook what is perhaps the most notable—Arabian horses. The first Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show was held in February 1955 on the grounds of the Arizona Biltmore. Ed and Ruth Tweed, owner of Brusally Ranch where Scottsdale Country Club now stands, Philip and Helen Wrigley, and Fowler and Anne McCormick were the founders of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, which sponsored the two-day event that attracted 50 entries. Today, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, known in the horse community as simply Scottsdale, is considered one of the largest and most competitive Arabian horse shows in the world. Now an 11-day event, the show celebrates 60 years in 2015 and will welcome over 2,200 purebred and Half-Arabian horses from as far away as Europe and the Middle East. Its economic impact, according to 2014 data from
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SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN HORSE SHOW
the City of Scottsdale, is from $52 million to $58 million. In 2014, it attracted 300,000 attendees and had over 2,100 entries. The event is held at WestWorld, the recently renovated, sprawling 386-acre equestrian center that has become the heart of the Scottsdale horse community. The facility hosts hundreds of equine events annually, including the prestigious Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships and the Cactus Reining Classic. Amanda Brumley, owner of Brumley Management Group LLC, which produces Scottsdale’s Cactus Reining Classic comments, “I think Scottsdale was wise to make the recent improvements to WestWorld. This was a major expansion for them to take on and it’s really helped. Scottsdale needs to stay competitive with other state-of-the-art facilities being built around the country.” Chris Collman of Collman Equestrian Productions (CEP), which produces a number of United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) national A-rated hunter jumper shows at WestWorld, added, “With the recent renovations to WestWorld, along with the resort feel of Scottsdale and the unparalleled weather, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what can be done here in Arizona in the future.” It is not only the magnificent Arabian breed but also the owners whose contributions have made Scottsdale what it is today. Names such as McCormick, Wrigley, Tweed, Gainey, LaCroix, Chauncey, and Adams played critical roles in the development of Arabian horses in Scottsdale. Some of the most prestigious residential areas bear the names of the industry’s earliest Arabian horse breeders. Today, Scottsdale has one of the highest concentrations of Arabian horse owners, breeders, and trainers in the country and is home to dozens of Arabian horse ranches—unarguably some of the most beautiful horse farms in the United States. (Visit two Scottsdale Arabian breeding farms on pages 92-97.) A plethora of equestrian disciplines are enjoyed in the valley of the sun. Riders enjoy long seasons with idyllic training weather. During the summer months of extreme heat, riders head north to the higher elevations or train early in the morning or in lighted arenas at night. Continued on page 98 90 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
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1, 2, 8. Western pleasure classes with ornate turnout are crowd favorites at the Arabian Horse Show. 3, 9. Par ticipants in a popular hunter pleasure class. 4. A rider heads off to a country english pleasure competition. 5. Western flair is par t of the Scottsdale culture. 6. Bar t van Buggenhout, farm manager of Aljassimya Farm in Santa Ynez, Calif., enjoys the caliber of the show. 7. Halter classes are the preferred method of presenting the beauty and agility of the Arabian breed.
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SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN FARM VISIT
R A E- DAW N A RA B I A NS “If Saskatoon, Canada, is where the Popplewell Arabians are raised, then Scottsdale is where they blossom.”
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ention the names Murray and Shirley Popplewell in Arabian circles, and you’ll hear nothing but utter respect and the utmost regard for who they are and what they are accomplishing in the world of Arabian horses. Murray and Shirley love what they do, revere the breed, and relish the opportunity to be involved in every aspect of their breeding program. “We are hands-on people,” Murray explained. “If you are just in the Arabian horse business for the ribbons and the party, you’ll get tired of it. But if you come because of the Arabian horse, it will go on for years.” Their business, Rae-Dawn Arabians, started very small. “I grew up on a farm with lots of horses,” Shirley told us. “I bugged Murray for 10 years to get a horse, and we got two—one Arabian Quarter Horse mare cross and an Arabian purebred gelding. We got a mare that was ready to foal, and we got the bug,” she laughed. “We built a four-stall barn, we were going to fill it up and that would be the end of it. Before you knew it, we had 4 horses then 14, 24, 75, and more from there!” Their Arabian business started in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. They decided to expand to an area closer to the large, U.S. spring shows and design a second facility as a winter oasis. “We looked at Santa Ynez, California; Ocala, Florida; and Scottsdale, Arizona,” Murray explained. “Scottsdale really is the Mecca for Arabian horses. This is the desert and where they should be.” The 10-acre Scottsdale farm is stunning, well planned, and considered one of the top equine facilities in the world. The farm is a major attraction at Scottsdale’s Annual ArabHorse Farm Tour. “People have visited from Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Spain, Belgium, and all around the world,” Murray said. “We needed to be in Scottsdale.”
Opposite page, top; The elegant European-style and beautifully landscaped barn. Below: The open and airy barn interior with spacious stalls outfitted with windows, misters, and custom woodwork. This page, clockwise: The spectacular viewing area for prospective horse buyers. Murray and Shirley Popplewell, Equine details ornament stall beams. Welcoming entrance to Rae-Dawn’s presentation building. WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 93
SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN FARM VISIT
S TO N EWALL FARM
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cott Bailey and David Cains of Stonewall Farm, a world-class Arabian breeding farm, have chosen the North Scottsdale, Arizona, desert setting as the perfect location to pursue their combined passion— Arabian horses. A visit to Stonewall Farm includes an introduction to the stark beauty and unique personality of the Sonoran desert. Situated 1,000 feet above the valley floor, the landscape is an untamed mix of Saguaro cactus, gnarled Mesquite and Palo Verde trees, and other hardy vegetation. The sunsets—spectacular at this elevation—are vast open skies with fiery colors and majestic mountains filling the view. This region of the American desert has become the modern source of some of the finest Arabian horses in the world. “One of our very first colts from a mare that we bred went to Saudi Arabia,” David said. “The fact that this gentleman came from Saudi to the American deser t and bought one of our horses was quite a compliment.” TH E A L L U R E OF ARABIANS Both David and his brother developed an affinity for horses at a very young age. An early encounter with Arabians occurred when his brother took a summer job at an Arabian horse farm and fell in love with the breed. Instead of getting paid, his brother’s employer applied his earnings toward the purchase of a horse. “My parents didn’t know about it until we showed up with a gelding,” David laughed. “We would go to horse shows in Michigan, and my brother won everything with this beautiful chestnut gelding.” David eventually decided he wanted to start showing Arabians. “My parents and I went to an Arabian horse farm and found a white, Polishbred mare, he said. “She started my love affair with breeding, studying about pedigree, and looking into what was showing and winning.” Clockwise from top: A warm welcome to Stonewall Farm. The spacious kitchen is outfitted with chef-worthy appliances. A dramatic dining area with scenic view of outside living spaces. The generous living room with high-pitched ceilings and bank of windows is ideal for entertaining. David Cains, left, and Scott Bailey. A hallway to the Stonewall offices is lined with framed photos of horses, family, and friends.
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SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN FARM VISIT
S TO N E WALL FARM co nt i nue d While David was dedicating himself to the Arabian breeding business, Scott was designing websites and deciding what to do for a graduate program. “I decided to research Arabian horse websites and only found two online with very dated styles,” Scott said. “I told David I had an idea to design and market websites showcasing Arabian horses, and he jokingly said ‘that will never work.’ ”
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hey have now designed over 500 websites and currently maintain 350 clients. Scott added, “We have lots of clients in the Middle East and design and manage sites for royal families of various countries—it’s just snowballed.” Scott also developed iEquine, a comprehensive equine directory offering live streaming of equestrian events worldwide. iEquine can simultaneously stream multiple events and multiple disciplines at different locations. “We are helping to bridge the gap between breeds and disciplines,” explained Scott. “As an industry, it’s been fragmented. Live streaming helps to merge the divide.” Joining forces on the purchasing and breeding of Arabians seemed a natural progression for Scott and David. “Scott and I bought a couple of mares and star ted breeding and were successful from the get-go,” said David. “We now have 38 horses.” The breeding program at Stonewall Farm is purposely kept small, producing about 10 foals a year. Every breeding is carefully planned, and the results are critical to the farm’s success. Travel is also an essential part of Scott and David’s successful business. They love attending the international shows that celebrate the natural beauty of Arabians, and visiting the breeding programs of other Arabian enthusiasts around the world. “We love to meet people who share our passion,” says David, “and we especially enjoy welcoming them for a visit to Stonewall Farm.” This page, above: Stonewall’s prized Arabians in motion; Scott heading to the paddock. Opposite, clockwise: An exterior spiral staircase adds architectural detail. A rustic garden-side retreat; Oliver, the Portuguese water dog; subtle landscaping sets off the seamless flow of indoor and outdoor spaces; Tilly the Whippet knows how to relax; Pixie the irresistible family goat.
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Reining. Amanda Brumley, event manager and
owner of Brumley Management Group LLC, is on the pulse of the sport of reining. Her company produces several premier reining events in the west, including Scottsdale’s Cactus Reining Classic—considered the first of the west’s Triple Crown of Reining competitions. “The economic downturn impacted every equestrian discipline,” Brumley said. “We had a real kick to the gut, but the shows have come alive again. Last year was unreal, and the growth in attendance and participation in all of my events has increased from 37 to 50 percent. I have not seen another industry grow in size, popularity, and finances as fast as the reininghorse industry.” Reining horse trainer Tyson Randle relocated to Scottsdale for several reasons. “The weather allows for uninterrupted, year-round training, and several national-caliber events are right here in town,” Randle said. “The valley of the sun is also home to many of the finest reining horses and trainers in the world.” Polo. The Arizona Polo Club has been playing
on the lush polo fields of Horseman Park at Westworld since 1982. Three-on-three arena polo is also played at the Polo Aztec Club and the Scottsdale Arena. The season runs from November through April but was kicked off in late October with one of the largest adrenalin-pumping polo events in the country, the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships. Over 12,000 fans came out to enjoy the matches and mingle with champions and celebrities. Arizona Polo Club player Natalie Grancharov loves that players like Chip McKinney, Sunny Hale, Nic Roldan, and other high-profile players come out to compete in Scottsdale. Hunter jumper. Arizona boasts 13 USEF-
rated shows per year, split between Tucson and Scottsdale. In addition, there are approximately 25 non-USEF-rated shows that are recognized as Category II shows by the Arizona Hunter Jumper Association (AHJA). The show season is broken into halves: a winter/spring show season from January through May, and a fall season that resumes in September. 98 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
1. Reining horse Not Ruf At All performs a sliding stop. 2. Young hunter Mackenzie Jones kisses her winning par tner. 3. From left: Riders Jessica Noonan, Mackenzie Jones, and Kaitlin Collman. 4. Mackenzie Jones bonds with her pony. 5. Off and running at Turf Paradise race track. 6. Polo player Andres Camacho is fully focused.
JTS PHOTOGRAPHY
H O R S E SPORTS ARE F L O U R I S H I NG IN SCOTTSDALE
WALTENBERRY PHOTOGRAPHY
SCOTTSDALE EQUESTRIAN DISCIPLINES
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The president of AHJA, Wendy Dean Johnson said, “The horse industry as a whole experienced a decline during the recession and Arizona was no exception. The most noticeable decline was in the decrease in newcomers to the sport. The good news is that it seems to be turning around again, and we are seeing an increase in the number of riders getting into the sport.” Chris Collman, producer of the major hunter jumper shows in the area, said, “Exhibitors are looking for the best overall experience they can get from a horse show. Not only the show itself, but the quality of the surrounding area. Scottsdale is such a resort destination that there are all kinds of possibilities to attract exhibitors.”
COADY PHOTOGRAPHY
Thoroughbred racing. Turf Paradise is a
Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse race track located just west of Scottsdale. Horses race five days a week on the main track or on a shorter turf course. October 18, 2014, launched the start of its 59th season of racing. It is the third largest sports attraction in the state and has one of the longest seasons of Thoroughbred racing in the country. Continued on page 100 WINTER 2 0 1 4 | 2 0 1 5 | EQ U ES TRIA N Q UA RTERLY | 99
T HINGS TO DO When not immersed in equestrian activities or boundless options of upscale shopping, be sure to take in Scottsdale’s spectacular array of entertaining things to do.
The Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is nestled in central Scottsdale. Here you will find an endless display of Sonoran Desert flora and fauna. During the Christmas holidays, the garden comes to life at night as hundreds of luminaria light the pathways and strolling guests are treated to variety of musical ensembles ushering in the holiday season. If visiting in the spring, don’t miss the opportunity to see the butterfly exhibit at the Marshall Butterfly Pavilion. Located in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, Taliesin West was initially created by Frank Lloyd Wright to provide a personal winter home, studio, and architectural campus. A broad range of tours are offered daily, providing visitors with unique insights into his efforts to create harmony between indoor and outdoor
Taliesin West
Royal Palms Resort
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Continued on page 104
The Heard Museum
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU. PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU. COURTESY OF ROYAL PALMS RESORT AND SPA
VISIT SCOTTSDALE
Mary Sue Jacobs Destiny International Properties of the Palm Beaches, Inc. TOP 1% OF THE NATION IN SALES
24 hours a day - 7 days a week 561.791.2501 • 561.758.5212 • Fax: 561.791.0949
Stunning 6-Acre Equestrian Estate - Wellington, FL
By far one of the most beautiful farms in Wellington, Florida located on the south side of Saddle Trail. The 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath private residence is simple amazing and gives you the feeling of resort living with breathtaking views and an enormous outdoor living area entirely screened, with a huge pool and spa. No luxury was spared in the gourmet kitchen and living quarters. 26+ years experience in Equestrian & Luxury Estates, Land, Investments, Rentals
Mary Sue Jacobs Destiny International Properties of the Palm Beaches, Inc. TOP 1% OF THE NATION IN SALES
24 hours a day - 7 days a week 561.791.2501 • 561.758.5212 • Fax: 561.791.0949
Only a 5-Minute Hack to WEF
The 12-stall CBS center aisle barn has ten large 12’x14’ stalls and an additional two 14’x14’ stalls, two fly systems, laundry, tack and feed rooms, bathroom, lounge and a groom’s apartment with nothing spared for the full comfort of all the horses. The property has room and is zoned for 24 stalls. Absolutely the best buy in Wellington this season. Private showings only. Must have 24-hour notice. Please call 561.791.2501 24 hours a day – 7 days a week 26+ years experience in Equestrian & Luxury Estates, Land, Investments, Rentals
The Boulders golf course
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
El Chorro
Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction
THINGS TO DO continued from page 100 spaces as it blends in with the surrounding Sonoran Deser t. The Heard Museum, located in Central Phoenix, provides an in-depth view of the art and culture of native peoples who originally inhabited the Southwest. The museum includes 12 exhibition galleries, free guided tours, and a contemporary art gallery. Its collections, education programs, and festivals are internationally recognized. The Heard hosts the annual World Championship Hoop Dance contest usually held in early February. What better way to relax than to spend a day at a luxurious resort and spa? The caliber of top-tier resor ts that include world-class dining are too numerous to list. Experience an ultimate escape at Royal Palms Resort (T Cook’s), and Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (Elements), and countless others. The choices of restaurants in Scottsdale are as numerous as there are days in a year. Options abound. You can enjoy fine dining with scenic views of Camelback Mountain at El Chorro in
10 4 | EQ U E S T R I A N Q UART E RLY | WI N T ER 2014 | 2015
The McDowell Mountain Preserve
Sanctuary
the heart of Paradise Valley, or sit on a log and watch a beautiful sunset from the base of the McDowell Mountains while enjoying a cookout at the rustic Greasewood Flat. The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts provides myriad opportunities to celebrate artistic excellence and cultural awareness. Whether your preference is dance, music, theater, or film, you can find it here. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMOCA) is a multigallery museum featuring contemporary works of art, architecture, and design. With over 200 options, Scottsdale has no shortage of world-class golf courses. Whether you are just getting started or are a scratch golfer, you will find a course that is right for you. The Waste Management Phoenix Open (January 29 through February 1) held at the Tournament of Players Club (TPC) in North Scottsdale is one of the premier events on the PGA tour. The McDowell Mountain Preserve, boasting over 30,000 acres and 100 miles of
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
VISIT SCOTTSDALE
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
COURTESY OF BARRETT-JACKSON
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTTSDALE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
.
trails, makes it one of the largest urban preserves in the country. Trail riding offers a close view of the diversity of wildlife and landscape in the Sonoran Deser t. Consider a late afternoon ride to witness the explosion of colors as the sun sets over the preserve. If you have a few extra dollars and are looking for extra horsepower for yourself or that special someone, the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction may be the place for you. The event typically draws over 300,000 spectatators and features more than 1,000 collector and special-interest automobiles. Mingle with celebrities and highrollers this year as they auction off a 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake CSX 3015 (above). Visit an Arabian horse farm over New Year’s weekend. The ArabHorse Farm Tour extends a special five-day invitation to the public to visit some of the valley’s most prestigious Arabian farms and training facilities. Admire the horses, enjoy the par ties, and feel good about doing it. While there is no admission, raffles, auctions, and events take place as fundraising effor ts for Healing Hear ts Animal Rescue and Refuge and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. PAGE 110
Spe cializing in e queS tri a n p rop erti eS…a nd So much more. Let me h elp you open th e door.
Jen Drahan J e n dra h a n . c om 281- 851- 7248 W e l l i n gt on , Fl
Just imagine how the rest of the estate looks. American Institute of Architects, State of Florida
2014 Builder of the Year HedrickBrothers.com | 561-689-8880 West Palm Beach, FL | CGC013137
Unique Equestrian Properties offered by
Palm beacH Polo club condo – 3BR/3BA, newly renovated with high end finishes throughout, large rooms, beautiful decor, marble floors, detached garage, close to all equestrian activities. 2,000 living sq. ft. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 380,000
luxurious lakefront Home – Located in secure and private Versailles community, 6BR/4.5BA, beautiful pool area with pergola, 3-car garage, near turnpike, equestrian facilities, shopping. . . . . . . . . . $1.125 million
Wellington , 5 acres – Home access from 53rd Street, barn access from 52nd Street. Privately gated, 2BR/2.5BA, 4 paddocks with shelter, 6-stall L-shaped barn with feed & tack rooms, half bath & laundry, entire property dog fenced . .$2 million
Wellington, 9.55 acres off 130th aVenue – Excellent location with grassy 5 acres, plus exercise field & paddocks, 3BR/2BA with converted garage apartment, new roof & new fencing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2.750 million
call carlos arellano at 561.644.2474 or carlos@southfieldsre.com for more details.
call diego arellano at 561.389.4699 or diego@southfieldsre.com for more details.
Whether your interest is Polo, Dressage or Hunter/Jumper, Southfields Real Estate has the resources to find the perfect property for your lifestyle! 13304 indian mound road • Wellington, fl 33414 • 561.795.9777 • southfieldsre.com
palatial equestrian estate
Wellingon Preserve’s own private resort with custom details throughout. Available Turnkey for this season. 6BR/8.5BA, 3-car garage, plus additional building for immediate barn with office & bathroom or 12-car garage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7.999 million call kristina Gustafson at 561.346.6917 for details on these and other listings.
other properties oFFered by kristina • Kristina@southfieldsre.com
botanical oasis – Large screened patio/pool entertaining area, lushly landscaped 1-acre estate lot, 3BR/2BA, hurricane impact windows. No HOA fee!. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $699,000
saddle trail park – 10-18 min. hack to WEF! Purchase both lots for amazing 8.2 acres. and ability to have 33 stalls. Mature trees, fenced & irrigated. City water accessible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.999 million
13304 indian Mound road • Wellington, Fl 33414 • 561.795.9777 • southfieldsre.com
unique equestrian Properties offered by
ExclusivE opportunity
Zacara Farm
Newly completed, largest and most unique world-class equestrian opportunity. Fully equipped compound on 102.8 acres located within prestigious Wellington Preserve. Perfectly sited for easy access to Winter Equestrian Festival and International Polo club. • Staff QuarterS: 6 self-contained living staff quarters. Each of 1,917 sq. ft. quarters has fully equipped kitchen, laundry and 4 en-suite bedrooms, all climate controlled. • GueSt HouSe: 3BR/2BA, 2 fireplaces, full kitchen and laundry, with courtyard overlooking fields. • BarnS: 120 stalls within 5 self-contained barns. 24' wide paved aisles, 5 climate controlled tack rooms, vet room, full laundry and storage. • fieldS: 2 regulation polo fields, 1 - 10.7 acre Stick and Ball field encircled with Andrew Bowen Safe Exercise Track. All fields sodded with Celebration Bermuda and state-of-the-art underground irrigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $32 million
undeveloped adjacent 41.14 acres are also available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $300,000/acre
13304 Indian mound road • Wellington, FL 33414 • 561.795.9777 • southfieldsre.com
EQ R E S O U R C E S
Where to Find It Look for the symbol throughout the magazine to find out about featured products and services.
LYLE LOVETT
Hibou Home Wallpapers hibouhome.com wallpaperdirect.com Land of Nod landofnod.com Miss Design Custom Design miss-design.ca Giddyup Quilted Pillow rosenberryrooms.com Fantasy Fields fantasyfields.eu Wooden Horse Clock etsy.com/shop/ joannakrzepkowska PonyBeds ponybeds.com 855-298-1908 Pony Lamp shopperplanets.com YOUNG RIDERS p. 46 Intercollegiate Horse Show Association ihsainc.com
GALLERY p. 82 Stephanie Revennaugh srevennaugh.com SCOTTSDALE p. 86 Westworld westworldaz.com Rae-Dawn Arabians rdarabians.com Stonewall Farm stonewallfarm.com Desert Botanical Garden dbg.org Taliesin West franklloydwright.org The Heard Museum heard.org El Chorro elchorro.com Greasewood Flat greasewoodflat.net Sanctuary on Camelback sanctuaryoncamelback.com
Royal Palms Resort and Spa royalpalmshotel.com Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction barrett-jackson.co The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts scottsdaleperformingarts. org ArabHorse Farm Tour arabhorsefarmtour.com Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts smoca.org Holli Gallún Management 180, LLC 23233 N. Pima Rd, 113-235, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 BARN DOGS p.114 Syd’s Paraquest sydsparaquest.com
CANDACE BUSHNELL
DENIS LEARY
ANN LEARY
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GEORGE KAMPER
Intercollegiate Dressage Association teamdressage.com College Preparatory Invitational collegeprepinvitational.com USPA Intercollegiate/ Interscholastic uspolo.org/compete/ii NCEA collegiateequestrian.com Intercollegiate Saddle Seat Riding Association intercollegiatesaddleseat. com Interscholastic Equestrian Association rideiea.org DRIVING p. 60 Mr. Rockefeller’s Roads: The Story Behind Acadia’s Carriage Roads by Ann Rockefeller Roberts Published by Down East Books amazon.com
RICH POMERANTZ
Ralph Lauren Home ralphlaurenhome.com William Yeoward Crystal williamyeowardcrystal.com L’Objet l-objet.com Vagabond House vagabondhouse.com FAVORITES p. 28 Sgt. Reckless: America’s Warhorse by Robin Hutton Published by Regnery History 2014 sgtreckless.com DECOR Kid’s Bedrooms p.42 Whimsical Accents luulla.com/store/ whimsicalaccents Sweet Jojo Designs sweetjojodesigns.com
ANDREW SULLIVAN
FASHION p. 18 Kid’s Fashion LA Saddlery lasaddlery.com Animo usanimo.com Equiline equiline.it Romfh Equestrian Clothing romfh.com Goode Rider gooderider.com STYLE Barware p. 22 Reed & Barton 144 W. Britannia St. Taunton, MA 02780 reedandbarton.com Kathy Kuo Home kathykuohome.com L.V. Harkness 531 West Short Street Lexington, KY 40507 lvharkness.com
JOE PERRY IN VERMONT
JOHN O’HURLEY
EQUESTRIAN
Q U A R T E R LY
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EILEEN MARTHA ROCKEFELLER STEWART’S WITH STABLE, HER N.Y. MORGANS MARTHA STEWART IN MAINE
MARTHA STEWART’S STABLE, N.Y.
GEORGE KAMPER
GEORGE KAMPER
GEORGE KAMPER
MICHAEL WESCHLER
MINDY PETERS GEORGE MORRIS AT HOME
GEORGE KAMPER
CARSON KRESSLEY
pinoak.org
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2014 LEGIS Rider Bonus Awards
This IS the year with LEGIS!
$70,000 of LEGIS Rider Bonus Money Available in 2014 . . . more in 2015. 2014 WINNERS SO FAR:
2013 WINNERS:
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EQ B A R N D O G S
Journey’s Journey
PHOTOS LINDSAY McC ALL
Journey, a standard poodle service dog, helped SYDNEY COLLIER go to the World Equestrian Games.
M
y name is Sydney Collier, and I am a Grade 1b rider for the U.S. Para-Equestrian Association. I began riding at the age of 7 and at the same time got diagnosed with a rare life-threatening medical condition called Wyburn-Mason Syndrome. This basically means I have two, large, vascular-like tumors in my brain and behind my eye that caused me to lose my vision totally in one eye and partially in the other. I also have problems with coordination. When I was 11, I had a massive stroke during brain surgery and I was left in a wheelchair, paralyzed on my left side. I needed to relearn how to walk and use my body that had forever changed. Despite all these challenges, riding was a part of my heart, and I was determined not to give up my dreams. I began riding para-dressage in 2010 and set my goal of riding for the U.S. para-dressage Team, in top competitions like the Paralympics. To achieve these goals I
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The first time I met Journey, my life literally changed forever, and not just because I got my own dog. needed a little help from the canine world, and my Mom and I started applying for a service dog with a twist—he or she needed to be able to work comfortably at a horse barn. Sounds easy, right? Dogs love barns, but this dog needed to stay focused and on task while we were at the barn—not play. The first time I met Journey in the spring of 2012, my life literally changed forever, and not just because I got my own dog. Journey, a standard poodle that I had never met before, had been in intense training for over a year specifically for me as a balance and mobility dog. He had to relearn many tasks he had been taught in basic training, such as how to heel and work
on the right side because I have no use of my left arm. Together after a summer of intense team training, we embarked on a life journey: to pursue my equestrian dreams while living a safe and independent life together. Journey wears a balance harness when we work and has a list of tasks a mile long, like carrying objects, retrieving dropped objects, opening and closing doors, turning on and off lights, finding my mom if I fall—it really goes on and on. But what he likes to do most is kiss my horse and clean his face after I ride. Journey recently earned the honor of becoming the first ever credentialed dog when I competed at the 2014 World Equestrian Games. Journey is a shining example of how dogs can change lives, and I am so lucky he chose me for our journey together to help spread my message that through drive, determination, and adaptability, dreams can become reality! Here’s to our next Journey together towards PAGE 110 the 2016 Paralympics in Rio.
HERMÈS CAVALE, JUMPING WITH FREEDOM Both technical and athletic, the new Hermès Cavale saddle was designed for top-level show jumping with the help of our partner rider, Simon Delestre. With its wide gullet, angled foam-injected panels, and its seamless medium-deep seat, Hermès Cavale combines balance, comfort for horse and rider, and close contact riding. It offers an innovative answer to the search for the perfect feel over fences. 1-800-441-4488 - Hermes.com
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