Equestrian Living - June/July 2016

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EQUESTRIAN LIVING

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JUNE/JULY 2016

AMAZING WEDDINGS PLUS: PARIS SHOW JUMPING FASCINATING COUPLES J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 6

DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 10, 2016

True champions are created through hard work and determination.

A commitment to excellence produces winners and so it is with precast concrete fencing. Driven by quality and results, our concrete rail fences are as strong as they are beautiful.

That’s why equestrienne Adrienne Lyle at the TYL Dressage Center in Wellington, Florida has partnered with Superior Concrete Products. Through determination, both are dedicated champions in their field.

USA Dressage Champions & Olympic Team Members Adrienne Lyle and Debbie McDonald with Superior Concrete Rail Fence

Visit us now: Elegant.ConcreteFence.com Call us (800) 942-9255 Secure your surroundings.

EQ I N S I D E

FEATURES J U NE | J U LY 2 0 1 6

A WEDDING TO REMEMBER

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Top wedding professionals and newlyweds share valuable tips about creating a memorable wedding and showcasing the personalities of the bride and groom.

DAVID AND JUDY SLOAN

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Inspiration, design innovation, and the love of equestrian sport abound at this couple’s New York and Florida homes.

And so does good-hearted humor.

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DAVID AND JUDY SLOAN

72

MAJOR LEAGUE

LE SAUT HERMÈS

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Elite international show jumping and an unparalleled elegant event shine under the glass roof of the Grand Palais in Paris.

THE PERFECT SEAT

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Referred to as the daughter of the Steinkraus saddle, the Hermès Allegro, the brand’s newest jumping saddle, is poised to take flight.

MAJOR LEAGUE

72

Monica and Frank McCourt are all about teamwork.

Both are immersed in equestrian sport, and the launch of the exciting new Longines Global Champions League.

THE FRENCH HORSE

80

A current exhibition of French art from Romanticism to Fauvism is on display at the National Sporting Library and Museum in Middleburg, Virginia.

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Indoor Riding Arenas

Old World Skill & Craftsmanship Quality isn’t a goal; it’s a way of life.

At B&D Builders, we are committed to excellence in everything we do; from expert engineering to the choice of quality building materials. With an eye for building design and a careful attention to detail, our craftsmen seek to bring you an equine facility that functions well and looks great for many years to come. You can depend on B&D Builders for professional planning, scheduling and management of your project.

Request a quote at 717.687.0292 or by visiting our website at

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EQ I N S I D E

DEPARTMENTS J U NE | J U LY 2 0 1 6

10

EQ ESSENTIALS

DÉCOR

10

Entertain with a new line of magical-horse dinnerware.

FASHION

14

14

Designer Marta Morgan is bucking the mass-produced trend.

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24

FAVORITES

16

Nic Roldan’s inaugural Sunset Polo & White Party was a tremendous success for Brooke USA.

20

Engaging essays from Judy Richter’s book, Some Favorite Days.

TRAVEL

24

Tswalu Kalahari is the ultimate destination for a horseback safari.

STYLE

30

30

Unique and sleek gifts for Dad on Father’s Day. FOOD/DINING

97

How to make Wellington, Florida’s, favorite lobster tacos.

PEOPLE

106

PHOTO TRUE PHOTOGRAPHY

ON THE COVER

IN EACH ISSUE Kelly and Graham tied the knot at Bandy Canyon Ranch near San Diego, California.

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EDITOR’S NOTE 8 Welcome to Equestrian Living.

RESOURCES 105 Look for to find the products and services in this issue.

BARN DOGS 106 A story of a horse, a dog, and a friendship that left its mark on the country.

18

A trip to Europe initiated Brian Walker’s journey to success.

GIVING BACK

22

A small charity is committed to saving the ponies of Bodmin Moor.

SCIENCE

28

The origin of horsepower and its significant impact on history.

EQUESTRIAN PROPERTIES

85

Real estate feature section: fabulous farms and ranches.

EQ F R O M T H E E D I T O R

WELCOME

I Photography director George Kamper (left) and editor Stephanie Peters attend Le Saut Hermès in the Grand Palais in Paris.

8 | EQU E S T R I A N L I V I NG | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

typically write my letter at the last minute. There is a clarity that comes once the frenetic flurry of closing an issue winds down. It is in that calm that the full magazine comes into view.

Delaying my musings could be construed as procrastination, but I see it as purposeful waiting.

We rarely plan to have a continuous theme throughout an issue, so when it happens it’s usually by happenstance. In this issue, we thought we had distinctly different features, but as I read through the articles, a common theme emerged— the powerful results of teamwork. These are stories of paired success.

Our beautiful wedding feature showcases the rewarding impact of collaborating with wedding professionals.

A joint effort in creating the theme and managing the details of wedding planning is better than going it alone. You’ll enjoy meeting an interesting mix of couples and discovering what made their weddings fun, meaningful, and—most of all—memorable.

I imagine you will find David and Judy Sloan as engaging as we did. They are each creative innovators in their own right, focused competitors in dressage and polo, and hugely supportive of one another. We had the opportunity to visit with them in their inviting homes in Millbrook, New York, and Wellington, Florida.

Frank and Monica McCourt are another dynamic duo. Monica is an avid equestrian, and Frank has embraced the sport of show jumping in spectacular fashion.

He has partnered with Jan Tops, a Dutch

Olympic show-jumping champion who founded the Longines Global Champions Tour, in the creation of the Longines Global Champions League. It is an exhilarating new team-competition based on the format of Formula 1 auto racing.

Our recent trip to attend Le Saut Hermès in Paris, an international showjumping event held in the Grand Palais, coincided with the brand’s global launch of the Hermès Allegro saddle. A key element in their saddle-design process is the valuable feedback from their partner riders. It is teamwork at its best.

Lastly, we’d like to welcome Carol Cohen to Equestrian Living. She brings years of experience in the publishing and advertising realms and will be joining the team as editor at large. A former hunter jumper rider turned FEI-level dressage competitor, Carol is a founding sponsor of the Global Dressage Festival and the inspiration behind the Global Dressage Visionary Awards.

We are all anxious to hit the ground running. There are loads of new ideas in the pipeline, and I, for one, won’t be procrastinating putting them into motion.

VOTE FOR T H E 2016 GOLD L I ST It’s become a readers’ favorite, and we encourage you to vote for the best in equestrian living. It’s fun to discover the results, especially if you’ve participated. To vote for your favorites: http://tinyurl.com/eqgold16

CAROL COHEN. SHE’S WALKED IN YOUR BOOTS. More than just a dedicated realestate advisor, Carol Cohen is a fellow equestrian who has personally built and sold two of the area’s most distinguished equestrian estates. She knows real estate from both sides of the fence.

Carol is deeply committed to the Wellington equestrian community. A former hunter jumper rider turned FEI-level dressage competitor, Carol is a founding sponsor of the Global Dressage Festival and the inspiration behind the Global Dressage Visionary Awards.

Carol knows horses, houses and Wellington! Whether you are interested in purchasing the property of your dreams or listing your current home to serious inquirers, contact Keller Williams real estate advisor, Carol Cohen.

Carolfcohen@kwrealty.com Direct: 561-756-4844 Office: 561-472-1236

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | D É C O R

SERVING UP SOME EQUESTRIAN STYLE Entertaining just became a lot more fun with ANTHROPOLOGIE’S SAGA DINNERWARE.

Magical horses and mythical birds from the pages of a Scandinavian folktale are brought to life in vibrant indigo.

Dinner plate Saga$18.00 Dinnerware Dinner platediameter – 10.5” 10.5" diameter $18.00.

Saga Side plate$12.00 Side plate 8.25” 8.25" $12.00.

Cereal Bowl $12.00 Cereal3.25 bowl x 6” 3.25" x 6" $12.00.

Mug $12.00 Mug 5.5”H x 4.75” diameter 5.5" high x 4.75" diameter $12.00.

Above Creamer 3.25" x 4.25" $14.00.

Serving bowl 4.5" x 10" diameter $48.00.

All Saga earthenware dishes are dishwasher and microwave safe.

PAGE 105

10 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

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at

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E V E N T

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market lights in the Courtyard as it delivers amazing photos!

The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms has an abundance of indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate your vision for your wedding celebration! Upon arriving the venue welcomes your wedding party to relax in the Bridal Suite as well as the Lost Horse Lounge which delivers a cigar lounge and media room in design.

The Ballroom is the ideal indoor area for dining or the Events Lawn invites guests to enjoy the celebration under the stars! Dancing is usually in the ballroom or in the loft but regardless we always suggest the traditional dances under the

Memorable Ceremony Engagement Surprise

info@CrookedWillowEvents.com

Ceremonies can be set on the Events Lawn, the Courtyard or in Goose Park for a few of our outdoor options. If you choose indoors, most select the candle wall backdrop of Lola’s Loft or the Ballroom as their preferred space. Post ceremony, cocktails are enjoyed in the courtyard amidst the floral beds.

Wedding Reception

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Rehearsal Dinner

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Other amenities on property for your guests to engage in include the Photo Booth, Activity Arena which includes a sand pit for volleyball or badminton, horseshoes and more as well as a kids’ Paige Eden Photography room to mention a few! Non-traditional desserts are the current trend and guests enjoy roasting marshmallows in the courtyard or pairing selections with your favorite spirit in an interactive tasting station.

All of the spaces are yours for 12 hours of access with 6 hours of event time, so you can enjoy them however you choose. For more information on the venue, to check availability or to set up a tour, please contact The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms at 303.951.8888 or info@crookedwillowevents.com.

Tours are by appointment only,

Jessica Christie Photography

the venue is open from mid-April through the end of October, annually.

Jenni Parks Photography

Elegant Images

CrookedWillowEvents.com

EQ J U N E / J U L Y

EQ U E S TR I A N

LIVING

EQLiving.com

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VOLUME 5 NUMBER 3 EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters DEPUTY EDITOR Jill B. Novotny PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR George Kamper EDITOR AT LARGE Carol Cohen DESIGN MANAGER Mary A. Stroup SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER Carly Neilson EDITORIAL MANAGER Rose DeNeve ASSISTANT EDITOR Abigail Googel EQ SPECIAL EVENTS Jennifer Pearman Lammer CONTRIBUTORS Erin Brown, Betsy LaBelle, Lesley Frascogna, Holly Matt, Sheila Motley, Judy Richter, Jennifer Mitchel Ríos, Renee Spurge INTERN Yeting Shen PUBLISHER C.W. Medinger CONSULTANT George Fuller PRINT John Spittle, Lane Press TECHNOLOGY Matt Tarsi NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Richard Trummer, Curtis Circulation Co. GLOBAL PARTNER PUBLICATIONS EQUISTYLE, Germany; HORSEMANSHIP, China ADVERTISING SALES NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Debb Pyle, 434-806-6685, pyle@eqliving.com Joyce Jones, 954-796-1809, jones@eqliving.com Dick Holcomb, 770-331-7788, dickholc@bellsouth.net EQ ADVISORY BOARD Bob Cacchione, Founder IHSA 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, Fashion | LA Saddlery, Los Angeles, Calif.

Chester Weber, Combined Driving, Ocala, Fla. EQUESTRIAN QUARTERLY became EQUESTRIAN LIVING magazine in 2016 and is published six times yearly. It is distributed at selected equestrian locations, newsstands, and is available for home delivery for $19.95 | Canada $36.95.

Subscribe at eqliving.com/subscribe or EQ, Box One, Brownsville, VT 05037.

To purchase past issues or find newsstands offering EQ, visit eqliving.com/where-to-buy Subscription management and address changes: eqliving.com/manage-subscription Editorial inquiries and letters to the editor: info@eqliving.com ©2016. All rights reserved, Wynnwood Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced in print or online without written permission. ® Equestrian Living, Equestrian Quarterly, and EQ are registered trademarks of Wynnwood Media.

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EQUESTRIAN MAGAZINE in its inaugural year by American

Barnes & Noble and newsstand distribution:

Horse Publications.

CURTIS CIRCULATION COMPANY

12 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

AVAILABLE FOR SELECT PHOTOGRAPHY ASSIGNMENTS GEORGEKAMPER.COM | 305 538-2823

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | F A S H I O N

MARTA MORGAN Meet the TALENTED DESIGNER who is bucking the mass-produced trend.

I

BY RENEE SPURGE

have been on the hunt for boutique equestrian fashion brands that cater to a more sophisticated and specialized clientele. Given today’s global economy where products and clothing are mass produced, frequently plagiarized, and often lacking in quality and aesthetic, I happened upon a talented designer bucking the mass-produced trend in a

14 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

Left: Royal Anastasia show coat with tan suede collar.

Right: Detail of black Anastasia show coat with suede collar and Swarovski crystal detail.

little town in Northern Italy. Her name is Marta Morgan, and she designs for the style-conscious rider who prides herself on individuality and attention to detail.

Morgan’s clothes are ultra-feminine and downright pretty.

While her business developed out of beautiful custom horse pads, blankets, and accessories, it was her lovely collection of shirts that caught my attention. They are fitted and lightweight, with crisp cotton panels and breathable

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | F A S H I O N

“I PARTICULARLY LOVE HER USE OF SUEDE COLLARS AND SUBTLE CRYSTAL DETAILS THAT ELEVATE RATHER THAN OVERWHELM.�

stretch fabric that moves in unison with the body. The front of the shirt creates a beautiful curve to the body, but it is in back where her shirts really shine. A delicate, princess-cut sleeve and a little bling button for good measure makes this my new go-to fashion show-shirt.

For her collection of riding coats, Morgan has combined modern technical fabric and fit with the traditional cut and details of our past favorites, creating a cross-over market between the

Left: May short sleeve white show shirt. Shown with Secretariat white breech with Swarovski crystal detail.

Center: Kimp navy blue quilted jacket.

Right: Black Anastasia show coat with suede collar and Swarovski crystal detail.

All prices upon request.

hunter-jumper and dressage arenas. I particularly love her use of suede collars and subtle crystal details that elevate rather than overwhelm.

Morgan has also introduced the most luxurious, timeless, quilted barn-to-street jacket. Even though you can literally carry it around in your purse, this misleading featherweight classic will keep you warm on crisp spring or fall mornings.

For wholesale inquiries in the U.S., email: contact@fabianomitchell.com.

PAGE 105 JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 1 5

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | F A V O R I T E S

PHOTOS: ALEX PACHECO AND PHELPS MEDIA GROUP

SUNSET POLO AND WHITE Polo star NIC ROLDAN’S event raised over $120,000 for the Brooke.

The inaugural Nic Roldan’s Sunset Polo and White Party, hosted by Mark and Katherine Bellissimo to benefit Brooke USA, drew over 500 guests to the Wanderers Club in Wellington, Florida. It was the perfect setting for sunset polo and dancing under the stars. The Brooke has worked in some of the most impoverished areas around the world for the last 80 years, helping more than 1.8 million equines and more than 10 million people who rely on these animals each year.

Clockwise from top left: The Wanders Club; Katherine and Mark Bellissimo; Hannah Selleck and Alex Hamer; Christiane Lacroix, Justin Eckbo Daniels, and Naima Gaia Moreira Laliberte; Tim Boulton, Carol Sollak, Eric Lamaze; The winning Brooke Grey Team, Staff of Brooke USA; Brooke USA Polo Team shirts

by Polo Gear; Celine Caset, Augustine Merlos, and Celestino Merlos; Grant Ganzi.

16 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

EQ

PEOPLE

A EUROPEAN ADVENTURE BRIAN WALKER’S

journey to success.

BY ERIN BROWN

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jump some horses that had won grand prix and world championships.

“Jumping a top-level horse over a small jump is still special,” said Walker.

“Being able to experience navigating a course with a top-level horse, even though it wasn’t in the show ring, can be a oncein-a-lifetime experience.”

Riding 10 horses a day, Brian was quick to learn that Europeans are very serious about a horse’s fitness.

Trained to constantly look for the next best thing when it comes to therapies and care, Europeans were able to find alternatives to help the horses Brian cared for stay stronger and sounder. He was able to observe first-hand how these equestrian professionals were able to maintain top-level grand prix horses that were constantly in the show ring.

After spending two years in Europe, Brian returned to the U.S. to work for Eddie Horowitz, whose subsequent retirement led to Brian starting and running his own business, Woodside Farm, with Lauren Ward. More recently, Brian has joined fellow horseman and long-time friend Kent Farrington.

As his career grows, Brian always credits his experiences in Europe as a huge influence on his success.

LIZ CRAWLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

education. With leading horses such as Top Gun, Grand Dame, Roofs, and Pialotta, it’s no surprise Brian’s mentor was onto something.

Jumping some of Jan’s most notable horses taught Brian more than he could ever imagine. He was given the opportunity not only to flat the horses, but to

SOPHIE WALKER

A

n ahlete can remember the pivotal moment that changed his or her career. In 2003, Brian Walker was offered the opportunity to move to Europe and work with Jan Tops, gold medalist for the Netherlands in the team show jumping event at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. (See story on page 72.) At 21 years old, Brian was at the point in his career, where, in order to grow, he had to take every opportunity presented to him. At the time, Tops was still competing, and he brought Brian on to become a rider and to scout horses in Valkenswaard, Netherlands.

Throughout his days in Europe, Brian paid close attention while being immersed in the different world of European show jumping.

Engrossed in Jan’s program, Brian was able to see and work with best horses in the world. Through these experiences, he learned the importance of choosing a horse based on quality and nothing else.

“Jan always told me ‘try to buy the best, and if you can’t afford the best, then you will have to kick and pull a little harder,’” said Walker. Learning from Jan’s ability to identify excellent horses was an invaluable chapter in his European

Brian Walker, a dual Canadian and American citizen, has trained, worked, and ridden alongside the best in the world over the last 25 years. As a junior, Brian won the Maclay Medal Equitation Championship in 2001.

PAGE 105

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EQ E S S E N T I A L S | F A V O R I T E S

SOME FAVORITE DAYS Essays from JUDY RICHTER’S life with horses and horse people.

CHRONICLES OF COKER

EQ

O

OK

CL

U B

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B

T

he first address for Coker Farm, back in the early 1960s, was 518 East 88th Street, a fourthfloor walk-up in New York City. There were no zip codes then and life was much simpler, but there were horses and horse businesses. Tax laws were lenient, and anyone could hang out a shingle (in our case, not literally), deduct virtual hobby expenses and business, and enjoy the hobby without going broke. Horses were expensive, especially for newly marrieds like us earning little pay at our little jobs: my husband Max was a very junior salesman in big paper company, and I was working as a neophyte teacher of bright teenage girls at an upscale private girls’ school in Greenwich, Connecticut.

I had learned well from my father how to “do” the horse business, even if you had a real job in the real world.

It was simple: keep track of expenses (many) and income (little), write off the expenses, and once every five (or was it seven?) years sell a horse and show the IRS a profit. Uncle Sam and the IRS were so benevolent, trusting(?), and gullible(?) then. It could be the fault of us horse traders that they have since become so cagey, tough, and downright suspicious.

In any case, 518 East 88th Street was a good enough address for our literally “one-horse farm,” Coker Farm. Naming the farm was easy.

Traditionally horse people name their

Judy Richter is well-known in the hunter-jumper world as “the consumate horsewoman.” Her mentor, George Morris, gave her her first client, and she has now been in the horse business for more than 40 years, training young riders and horses for show competition. Essays in Some Favorite Days include Richter’s favorite memories, many of which transpired on Coker Farm, her 100-acre training facility in Bedford, New York, where she lives and teaches. Even though it is only 35 miles north of Times Square, Coker Farm is in every other respect worlds away. The essays feature some of her favorite equines; some of her favorite equestrians; and some of her best days off the farm, at horse shows up and down the East coast; at her even more rural farm in East Barnard, Vermont; and in New York City.

TH N S EE ER W V T O BE C

E

farm after their first good horse. There was no doubt in our minds: Coker was definitely my, and now our, first good horse. You could say he was my dowry.

Mr. Coker came into my life when I was 14 years old. My father took me along on a business trip to Canada that summer because he heard there were many big, Canadian-bred horses for sale cheap up there, and such a horse would suit him, because he was a big imposing man. Although I was a farm-raised, socially awkward youngster, I was not afraid to tell him what I thought.

Unlike his many employees, Big Phil’s women never yessed him. My mother hoped I would be able to get him to select a suitable horse.

W

e looked at half a dozen large horses in the Toronto area, but none of them caught our eye until, on our way to the airport, we spotted a tall, dark horse grazing in a field by the road. “George Coker” was the name on the rusty, lopsided mailbox, and we thought why not have a look. The dusty driveway saw little traffic; grass grew between the ruts made by tire tracks. At the end of the lane was a dilapidated old farm and barn. The farmer, Mr. Coker, as it turned out, was just calling to his horses to come in. We introduced ourselves and asked if the big horse was for sale.

“The colt?” he asked. “Well, I guess so.”

“Colt?” My dad echoed. “How old Continued on page 98 is he?”

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Amy Nauiokas trades Wall Street for a horse farm

Winter Warmth: The Five Best Horse Towns to Escape the Snow

John O’Hurley Find out where Seinfeld’s J. Peterman relaxes with his dogs

Candace Bushnell: From Sex and the City to a Farm in the Country

Mindy Peters Combining Hollywood and Arabian Horses

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EQ G I V I N G B A C K

PLIGHT of the PONIES A small charity fights to SAVE THE WILD PONIES of the Bodmin Moor.

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At the beginning of April an intervention removed 22 ponies, but the situation is far from resolved. “There are still many ponies in need of help. Foals are being born to emaciated pregnant mares,” continued Stacey. “After a crisis on this common in 2011, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) promised that it would never be allowed to happen again.”

One difficulty is that the exact reason for the ponies’ problems is still unclear.

The charity has decided to conduct testing to determine exactly what is happening on the moor.

Meanwhile, People4Ponies continues to raise awareness and pressure DEFRA and other organizations to act. Through the all-volunteer organization’s awardwinning campaign, the charity was able to stop ear mutilations on wild ponies, achieve a ban on hot-branding domesticated ponies, create restrictions to the procedure of hot branding wild ponies, and publish an exposé of the illegal live-export trade of wild ponies from Dartmoor abroad.

“To work with traumatized ponies that have lost all faith in humans and prove to them that everything is going to be okay is a very special thing,” said Stacey. “We have had ponies arrive who are over 30 years old, and it was the first time they could finally let the trauma go and trust again. They can finally have the PAGE 105 life they deserve.”

PEOPLE4PONIES

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here is a universal fondness for the wild ponies of the English moors. Visitors come from around the world to see the misty green hills dotted with fuzzy, short ponies.

These ponies have come to represent a past era, when animals and humans shared the world in a more natural way. Ponies kept the vegetation down, and people let them be. Today the moors are generally as they have been for hundreds of years, except for a few places where this balance has been lost.

People4Ponies was founded in 2003

by Paul and Cilla King in an effort to save a herd of 53 ponies. A local farmer had lost his cows to hoof and mouth disease and brought in ponies to keep the grass down. When the farmer restocked his herd, the surplus ponies, which were of no commercial value, had no viable future. The farmer thought the ponies would have a better chance if they were caught, tamed, and trained.

Faye Stacey began volunteering with the People4Ponies one afternoon a week in 2006. By the following year, she had given up her full-time job of covering the stock exchanges of Belgium, France, Portugal, and Holland for the Reuters News Agency to volunteer more time.

“Ponies have this ability to win over your heart and take over your life!” she laughed. When the founders retired in 2012, Faye took over running the charity.

Currently, the charity has garnered global attention for one particular crisis in Bodmin Moor in Cornwall. The moor is made up of small, fully-enclosed commons separated by farmland. On these commons cows, sheep, and ponies are grazed. The ponies are semi-feral and owned by local farmers who have grazing rights on the moor. Unfortunately, there is a long history of welfare issues.

The ponies are supposed to be protected under the U.K. Animal Welfare Act of 2006, and they can be seized by the authorities if they are found to be in poor condition or at risk. The owners of the ponies also have a legal responsibility to microchip and passport them, but this has not been enforced. As a result, no prosecutions were brought by the authorities because owners could not be traced.

“This year the welfare problem has been worse than ever before,” explained Stacey. “On one particular common, only about three square miles in area, 21 ponies have been found dead so far.

Authorities say they are aware of the situation, but many ponies are in need of help, and the bodies have been left to rot out on the moor.”

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AFRICA FROM THE SADDLE Safaris on HORSEBACK offer the best of nature and adventure.

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or many, the ultimate travel destination is one that shows you a new world. It brings you closer to nature, it offers adventure and incredible sights, and it allows you to relax and escape. For some, this might mean skiing in the Alps, for others it could be a beach in the Pacific. The African plain is a destination for many bucket lists, and horse lovers can find the perfect escape at Tswalu Kalahari in Continued on page 26 South Africa.

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GEORGE KAMPER

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Introducing

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SAFARIS ON HORSEBACK Continued from page 24

COMFORT

&STYLE

As the country’s largest private-game reserve, Tswalu protects over 425 square miles of spectacular grasslands and mountains. With conservation as their first priority, no more than 30 guests at a time can discover the vast beauty and serenity of the arid savannah and its diverse wildlife.

A horseback safari is one of the best game-viewing options available to guests. From the back of a horse, you become a part of the wilderness and without the noise and speed of engines, the silence and vastness of the landscape becomes even more striking.

The safaris take place across grassy plains and rolling Kalahari dunes with spectacular views across the desert to the Korannaberg mountains, pink and mauve in the late afternoon sun. rides are led by experienced guides, and 885 The E 149th St Bronx, NY 10455 horses are888-473-3386 available to suit any level from beginners and children to advanced riders. Both trail and mileatruck.com English saddles are available, as well as any other

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equipment you’d need including boots, chaps, gloves, and hard hats, which are mandatory.

Rides are generally 90 minutes in duration and can be extended. The most novice rider sets the pace. However, if more experienced riders wish to canter, groups can be split during the ride to accommodate them. For those who are not yet confident enough for a safari ride, an outdoor arena offers protected riding.

“The horses themselves are wonderful—responsive, lively and well-mannered,” wrote Justin Cartwright for National Geographic. “Our ride took us close to buffalo, hartebeest, kudu, and mountain zebra. I think it may have been the most interesting ride of my life.”

Few moments can rival gently walking through a herd of sable antelope on horseback, sharing the magical stillness that defines the Kalahari. No one who experiences this kind of closeness with wildlife ever forgets it.

PAGE 105

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EQ S C I E N C E

HARNESSED POWER A leader of the Industrial Revolution coined the term HORSEPOWER and brought history into the future.

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hy do we measure engines in horsepower? It seems anachronistic to refer to a farm animal when describing the roaring power of a V-8 engine in a modern car. On the other hand, it’s a reminder of the importance horses held in industrial history, and the close ties humans and horses shared in the not-sodistant past.

Academics point to the invention of the steam engine as a turning point in history and the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. The first person to receive a patent for a steam engine was Spanish inventor Jeronimo de Ayanz y Beaumont in 1606, but the first commercial steam engine using a piston was Thomas Newcomen’s atmospheric engine, which didn’t arrive until 1712.

The Newcomen engine was employed in pumping water from mines. Its use spread throughout England and the rest of Europe without any major design improvements for 75 years. The machine was hugely complicated, and it lost considerable heat while creating steam.

Things drastically changed when James Watt, a Scottish engineer, patented an engine in 1781 that was considerably more efficient and practical than its predecessor. It was this engine that enabled the explosion of progress in industry and technology that followed.

At first, Watt hoped to sell his engine by demonstrating that his machine was much more efficient than previous 28 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

BY JILL NOVOTNY

steam engines. But he discovered that the vast majority of his prospective customers were still relying on horses for their work. With this realization, Watt decided to market his invention to horse owners by comparing the capabilities of his machine with those of horses, and the concept of horsepower was born.

Stories differ as to which specific method Watt used to reach the number that became the standard unit of horsepower—33,000 foot-pounds per minute.

One theory says that Watt calculated that a horse could turn a mill wheel 144

times in an hour, and he estimated that the horse was able to pull with a force of 180 pounds. Based on the size of the wheel and the distance the horse travelled per minute, he concluded that a horse’s power is about 32,400 foot-pounds per minute, which was later rounded up and standardized at 33,000.

Another story goes that Watt’s first customer was a brewer that demanded an engine that could match the power of his horse. When measuring the horse’s power, the brewer tried to cheat by choosing his strongest horse and driving it to the limit, rather than measuring the regular and sustainable rate of work that would normally be required. Watt decided to allow the experiment to continue, and he built an engine to meet the brewer’s unrealistic standards of his horse’s power. This became the standard “one horsepower.” But regardless of whether Watt was trying to err on the side of safety or to impress customers by outperforming expectations, this marketing strategy proved successful.

Watt’s choice to link the future of energy production to its historical roots was based on practicality. He aimed to help farmers adapt to the changing times. Using the term today to describe Ferraris with 700 times the power of a horse might seem absurd, but it is really a reminder of the role horses have played in the history of our culture.

Watt likely could not have imagined the long-term effecs of his marketing plans.

WI N N I NG doesn’t happen by

A C C I D E N T.

A rub. It’s all that separates a flawless round from “better luck next time.” But you’re not depending on luck.

You’re depending on countless hours in and out of the saddle. And you didn’t come here for just a ribbon.

You came for the championship ribbon. So ask yourself, does your horse have the stomach to win?

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: ULCERGARD can be used in horses that weigh at least 600 pounds. Safety in pregnant mares has not been determined.

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | S T Y L E

NOW IT’S DAD’S TURN This FATHER’S DAY, he is sure to love these unique and thoughtful items.

The Beoplay A2 from B&O PLAY weighs just 2.5 pounds, making it the perfect way for Dad to bring his music anywhere, without sacrificing quality. The Bluetooth speaker is made of sturdy materials in customizable colors and gives loads of volume and rich bass. $399.

Inspired by the French style of Porteur bicycles used by newspaper couriers in Paris, the Runwell from Detroit’s Shinola delivers a classic blend of urban style and practicality. $2,950.

Kalamazoo’s Outdoor Hybrid Fire Grill is the ultimate gift this Father’s Day. It’s the only grill that gives outdoor cooks the freedom to combine wood, charcoal, or gas fires for the ultimate in heat, flavor, and convenience. The grill cooks at a low-and-slow 150° F or cranks up to a searing 1,200° F. Prices range from $11,295 to $25,195, depending on model.

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GTO London’s sleek and distinctive Cambio 60s Shift Gate cufflinks are handmade from sterling silver and black rhodium metal and inspired by the Ferrari 250 GTO, the most celebrated GT car of all time. $395. The handmade leather Coin Pocket Wallet includes the diamond stitching that is a hallmark of the rare Ferrari 250 GTO’s distinctive leather interior.

Expertly hand-stitched and finished with a quilted luxury exterior and nickel-plated steering wheel logo. $315.

David Sloan custom-creates handmade 1920s Field Bars from junkyard castoff trailers for clients to use at polo matches, hunt breakfasts, shooting parties, and other tailgating events. (See feature on page 58.)

Prices on request.

PAGE 105

A WEDDING TO REMEMBER PERSONALIZED DETAILS AND EQUESTRIAN STYLE WILL MAKE YOUR CELEBRATION A DAY TO REMEMBER.

BY JILL NOVOTNY

The choice of venue is one of the most important pieces of a wedding.

Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, epitomizes elegance in the heart of horse country.

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THINK BACK TO THE MOST memorable wedding you’ve attended. What was it about the day, the people, the food, or the decor that helped it seep into

your long-term memory? Was it the details? Were you wowed by the cake? Was the band rocking? Or was it something less tangible: a sense of romance or a feeling of joy?

Many couples look for elements to wow their

guests, but often the grandest pieces are not what turns a wedding into a lifelong memory. After you’ve packed your bags and headed off to your honeymoon (see Honeymoon Packing on page 45), what will your guests still be talking about? Guests are just as likely to remember the smaller, more authentic elements of a wedding. The thoughtful moment the groom toasted his new mother-in-law or the clever way the couple displayed the place cards might stand out for both you and your guests.

For horse lovers, the wedding need not be soaked in equestrian details or literally have a horse.

Equestrian style can permeate the wedding in authentic ways, from venue to place settings. As long as the event is a sincere reflection of your love, a wedding set on an impressive estate, an expansive ranch, or a cozy

FRANCESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

ALESANDRA PHOTOGRAPHY

farmyard can each produce the same effect: a lasting impression.

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IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

ADAM AND ALLI PHOTOGRAPHY

Meet three top WEDDING PROFESSIONALS who create uniquely designed weddings that leave lasting memories.

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any couples find the best way to ensure a smooth and memorable wedding is to enlist the help of talented florists, stylists, planners, and designers. EQ talked with three professionals about the changing trends of weddings and the signature details that make a wedding memorable.

Q: Do most brides want to collaborate with a planner or do they typically have a set agenda?

Jennifer Rios:: I would say it’s a mix. Most of my brides come to me because they want a uniquely designed wedding and trust me to lead the way. But some are definitely more hands-on than others.

Sheila Motley: I think most brides welcome the guidance and knowledge of a planning team.

Depending on the client’s budget, that may be a smaller package or full planning services.

Lesley Frascogna: I think that more and more brides are seeing the value in having a planner and/or stylist, and they are making the investment.

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Q: Do you have a preference for planning traditional or unconventional weddings?

JR: I am all about the unconventional. I like to reflect the couple’s personality in unique design details and really showcase who they are as a couple. The more nontraditional the better, in my opinion.

SM: We love the challenge of an unconventional wedding, be it the location, menu, or any other detail that allows creativity.

LF: I am not one for traditions, so anytime I can style something out of the ordinary, I get very excited.

Q: What essential elements help to give personality to a wedding?

JR: All the items pertaining to design contribute to the personality of a wedding. These include but aren’t limited to rentals and linens, tabletop settings, centerpieces, stationary and paper goods, cake and desserts, specialty food stations or signature bar, and lounge areas. The wedding

should have a common thread that really tells a story throughout these details.

SM It’s all in the details! Any detail that speaks to a client’s tastes or the location makes a wedding memorable for the bride, groom, and their guests.

LF: Personality can really come out in so many ways. It can be a certain motif that is used throughout the invitations or printwork, it can be a beautiful patterned linen, or it can be a color palette and style of flowers. Choice of bridal gown and wedding party attire can also be huge in showcasing a bride’s personality.

Q: Is there an emerging trend in wedding venues?

JR: At least for my brides, ballroom is out. The more industrial, garden, or backyard, the better.

SM: Clients are now having their wedding ceremonies in any location that means something special to them—from a rustic barn on a family farm to the most ornate church.

location is wonderful—but be careful not to overdo it—you still want your photos to be timeless.

LF: Barns can tend to be a little stinky, epecially if they actually house horses. Just keep that in mind when you are thinking about serving food to your guests. You may want to consider hosting the ceremony in the barn and moving guests outside for a tented reception.

Q: What about popular trends at receptions?

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JR: Trends are ever changing, and a lot of time things get overplayed quickly. My couples like to have a lot of fun and provide unique experiences for their guests, like games, fun food-stations, unique desserts, and craft cocktails. They are all about throwing a party!

SM: Departures are still very popular; everything from sparklers, to streamers, to alma mater colors. Departure photos make a great image for your thank-you cards.

LF: Hanging floral installations are very trendy right now. I think they will stick around for a while because they’re just so beautiful.

Jennifer Mitchel Rios Jennifer Mitchel Rios is the creative director and owner of Jen Rios Weddings in Fort Worth, Texas. A Texas Hill County native, Jen moved to Fort Worth in 2003 to attend Texas Christian University. She graduated in 2007 with a degree in interior design and began a design career shortly thereafter. In October 2011, Jen married a Fort Worth boy, Michael, and quickly also fell in love with all things wedding. She started Jen Rios Weddings in December 2011, leaving her interior design career behind. Jen Rios Weddings focuses on unique design tailored to a couple’s personalities and style. Their focus is on anything out of the box, quirky, organic and detailed.

JR: I would say yes, my weddings have a signature look. I try really hard to make all my weddings look different, but, at the same time, they have a high level of taste and design.

SM: The clients that gravitate to our services often are looking for a timeless, sophisticated wedding look with tailored details and magical lighting elements.

LF: They definitely do! They have a very clean, cohesive look that always seems to fit the couple’s personalities perfectly. We love simple but beautiful linens, lush florals, wooden farm chairs, long tables, and intentional custom details. We also make sure the look is inspired by the environment around the reception venue.

JEN FARIELLO

AMANDA WATSON

JR: With any theme, you don’t want to be too cheesy. It’s easy to take a concept and go overboard really quickly. I think subtle touches here and there accentuate your concept without becoming hokey.

SM: Like any decor theme, often less is more.

Bringing in a touch of equestrian style or

FRANCESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Q: Are there pitfalls to avoid when planning an equestrian-themed wedding?

Q: Do your weddings have a signature look?

Lesley Frascogna Lesley Frascogna fell in love with flowers at a young age while working catering jobs with her mother. In her 20s she put that love to the test as she became the proud owner of her first floral boutique in Chicago. Shortly after her own wedding in 2008, she started Tulip, working out of a design studio in Mississippi and happily taking on weddings and events. Most recently, Lesley led Tulip into the retail frontier by moving her business into a new storefront property. When she’s not creating artistic floral experiences, she’s spending time with her other passions: her husband Marty, kids Frank and Birdie, and dog-kids Fran and Lucy.

Sheila Motley Over the past 15 years, Sheila Motley has produced a wide array of first-class events for an impressive range of local clients in southern Florida, as well as regional, and national events. From a lavish Virginia premiere party for the movie Evan Almighty to the annual Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Gala to events for the American Heart Association and more, Sheila has earned an outstanding reputation and compiled a stellar record for success. She regularly puts together events in locations such as the Hamptons, Palm Beach, and Middleburg. Sheila has been responsible for producing a number of large and high-profile weddings featuring some of the most prominent families from the area and beyond.

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KIMBERLY AND TRAVIS

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or their September wedding, Kimberly and Travis imagined a country, Dutch-still life wedding, with equestrian touches. The bride is an avid equestrian who rides and competes on the hunterjumper circuit.

“Howell Family Farms jumped out immediately as the wedding venue for them,” said designer and planner Jennifer Rios. “It had the equestrian theme and a sweet country atmosphere on the property, but was polished rather than overly rustic. The interior had a formal feel for a country setting and fit perfectly with the bride’s vision of their day.”

The cocktail hour was held in the barn, where halters, saddles, and bridles were hung along the walls, the stalls bedded with fresh shavings. Kimberly and Travis’ engagement photos, taken at the stable with her beloved horse, decorated the guest-book table. Show ribbons were strung above the table and used in the aisle flowers for the ceremony. Upstairs, a long banquet table blanketed with flowers awaited the wedding party. Laurel wreaths were used throughout the decor and on the paper goods.

“The best part of the day was the very end of the ceremony,” explained Rios. “Just as Kimberly and Travis were introduced as man and wife, a train on the nearby tracks blew its whistle at the perfect moment. It was a lovely surprise that made all the guests cheer.”

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ALL PHOTOS THIS SPREAD JILLIAN ZAMORA PHOTOGRAPHY

ARLINGTON, TEXAS

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ROXANE AND BOBBY

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oxane and Bobby’s exquisite “happily ever after” was a notable event, filled with famous designers and professional equestrians from New York and Palm Beach and held at the International Polo Club (IPC). The chic, globally renowned polo club served as a stunning backdrop for a beautiful equestrian wedding.

The bride, an interior designer and COO/founder of Pomme New York, incorporated her sense of style into every detail, working hand in hand with the professional on-site event team at the posh polo club. Roxane brought her fashionable design flair and cultural sensibilities to the site decor, incorporating touches that reflected her Persian and French heritage.

Christopher David, former designer and vice president at Missoni, created jeweled Missoni table coverings, which were colorfully reflected in the array of vintage silver vases displayed along green-grass table runners. Table accoutrements were complemented by floral arrangements in shades of violet, deep purple, green, and pure white.

Ever detail driven, Roxane coordinated the tableware with silver chargers beneath translucent ivory porcelain plates, each adorned with semi-precious geodes in rose, amethyst, jade, turquoise, and amber. Each crystal stone was selected by Roxane for their positive energy, promising to channel confidence, good will, and intuition throughout the evening.

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ALL PHOTOS THIS SPREAD JONATHAN CONNOLLY PHOTOGRAPHY

WELLINGTON, FLORIDA

The groom cut a dapper image in his black suit-tux with silver bow tie, pearl-studded white shirt, and silver cuff links. He is a renowned professional rider and trainer with over 35 years of experience in grand prix equestrian competition and show jumping.

Roxane’s dress was custom-designed couture by fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka. The fitand-flare design featured a fitted bodice impeccably beaded with Swarovski crystals and a cascading, ruffled organza skirt with beaded insets. “Just moments before the ceremony, with threaded needle in hand, James had to make a small alteration to the dress,” said Enid Atwater, a representative of the IPC. “The fix was flawless, and the wedding went on. And yes, Mischka himself was sewing the bride’s dress on the day of the wedding.” He and Badgley, friends of the bride, were honored guests at this ultra-society ceremony.

Two hundred guests gathered on the 270-acre polo property for outdoor festivities that went from late afternoon into the night. Tables were positioned around the club’s infinity pool and nestled into the lush landscape accented with stately palms. The lavish menu started with sushi and an ice sculpture filled with jumbo shrimp. Champagne flowed, and there were multiple open bars. Mandolins serenaded the couple, and the high-energy band Wonderama kicked the party into high gear. As a salute to her heritage, Roxane had belly dancers swirl the dance-floor, pulling guests into their circle of exotic.

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CAROLYN AND GRANT WELLINGTON, FLORIDA

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ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE JESSICA LORREN PHOTOGRAPHY

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hen Carolyn and Grant were getting married, they chose a late November date at their own Bayberry Farm in Wellington, Florida. The stylish and intimate event evoked feelings of autumn warmth, Florida style, with a farm-totable menu and lots of candlelight.

The bride shows hunters competitively, while the groom works with horses at Double H Farm, an Olympiclevel jumper stable. The save-the-date cards included Carolyn’s horse, Shoreline, wearing a cooler embroidered with their names and the date of the wedding, custom made by the Clothes Horse.

Eighty guests gathered in a white tent surrounded by palm trees. As the sun set, the party began: colorful lights and great music got the guests dancing right up to the confetti-sprinkled finale.

“It was a great idea to host the wedding at their home and keep it small,” said photographer Jessica Lorren. “I feel that it helped enable a more relaxed atmosphere where the couple and the guests could relax and soak up their special day!”

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ALISON AND BRIAN JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE ADAM AND ALLI PHOTOGRAPHY

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lison and Brian met through a friend in college, and for months they were just friends.

But when Brian left for the season to play for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Alison realized she missed him and wanted something more.

When they finally said their I do’s, they threw a huge southern-style bash at Providence Hill Farm, a beautiful equestrian center in the heart of Mississippi.

Lesley Frascogna, the couple’s planner, designer, and florist, found the couple the perfect look. “She truly turned my vision into a reality,” Alison told Southern Weddings. Monogrammed ribbons by Oatmeal Lace Design and paper products by Thimble Press gave the wedding a southern charm that set a relaxed yet romantic tone. “Our wedding flowers were so perfect!” Alison continued. “They were soft and romantic, and they had a garden feel to them.”

Adam, of Adam and Alli Photography, observed, “It was a dream to shoot because they included so many details that showed who they are as a couple. It was amazing to see a working stable transformed into a picture-perfect venue!”

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JESSICA AND MATTHEW

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essica knew Crooked Willow Farm was where she wanted to get married from the moment she saw it, even though she wasn’t engaged yet. Her husband-to-be was from Colorado, so it was a destination wedding for her side of the party, mostly New Yorkers. “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed everything the state has to offer, from mountain climbing to city sights in Denver,” said Jessica.

Tory, her horse of over 20 years, was draped in greenery and white flowers and stood by proudly as she walked down the aisle. Jessica and Tory competed on the East Coast. “I’ve owned him since I was a little girl, and he has been such a big part of my life and the person I am today,” she explained. “It was so special for me.” The classic red barn behind them set an equestrian tone, as did some accent pieces such as horseshoes in the centerpieces and rustic burlap details.

Jessica admits it was an emotional day. “I kept telling myself, ‘be strong and don’t cry!,’ but when we toasted to my dad, whom we lost to cancer a few years ago, I had to cut it short,” she said.

“But our signature cocktail was a Long Island iced tea, since it was invented at my dad’s bar, the Oak Beach Inn, back in the ‘70s. That was a fun little tribute.”

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ALL PHOTOS THIS SPREAD FRANCESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

LARKSPUR, COLORADO

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LILY AND LUKE

MACKINAC ISLAND, MICHIGAN

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ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE MAGGIE CHAMBERS AND KATE DUPRE

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ackinac Island draws visitors from across the country for its charm, history, and natural beauty. But Lily and Luke had an even better reason for choosing the island for their wedding. Lily had spent summers in Mackinac with her family while growing up, and it’s where she met Luke. Then, it was where he proposed to her. It also happened to be where her parents and grandparents had met and been married. Each of her siblings have followed in the family tradition and married there as well.

Lily and Luke were married in St. Ann’s Catholic church, the same church as her family members. “The ceremony was a very blessed moment, and it was just filled with the spirit, you would say,” Lily remembered.

A horse and carriage brought the bridal party to the ceremony, and afterwards carriages brought the nearly 200 guests to the reception at Mission Point, a spectacular resort with manicured gardens, gorgeous shoreline, and views of Lake Huron.

While planning, Lily envisioned a vintage look imbued with elegant details. “I’d call it laid-back elegance,” she said. The use of the carriages for transportation was a natural choice, given the island’s equestrian feeling.

“My grandparents lived on the island,” Lily said. “And they had a stable behind their house, where we all rode growing up. There are wonderful trails all throughout the island that are just beautiful.”

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DAVID JUDY SLOAN

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This engaging couple sucessfully balances form, function, and multiple careers.

BY BETSY LaBELLE WITH STEPHANIE PETERS MAJOR PHOTOGRAPHY

BY GEORGE KAMPER

raditions are held in high regard in the Sloan household. Some are of the loftier sort and encompass fox hunts, black-tie-is-optional dinner parties, and hunt balls. But fun, tongue-in-cheek traditions—grounded in mutual support—are savored every bit as much.

“Don’t come home if you don’t get a blue ribbon,” David tells Judy as she heads out to a horse show.” “It’s his famous line to me, and I almost feel it’s bad luck if he doesn’t say it,” Judy laughs. “It started as a joke, and he certainly doesn’t mean it. But you know what? It gives me that extra boost as I walk out the door to compete.”

Judy and David Sloan are one of those fascinating couples you want to spend time with. Individually they are both hugely successful in their careers and fully devoted to their equestrian pursuits. He plays polo, and she is a dressage rider. They enjoy splitting their time between their two farms, Roseview Dressage in Millbrook, New York—where they both have strong family ties—and Roseview Farms in Wellington, Florida.

Although both sets of parents and grandparents knew one another, and were involved in the Millbrook hunt, Judy and David had never met prior to exchanging Continued on page 52

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Charlotte and her mount, Vitalis, share a laugh.

Her shirt, from Kastel’s Charlotte collection, has mesh inner sleeves for comfort and offers protection from the sun.

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The Sloans’ living room in Wellington.

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S

Some items that were obviously not of David’s design were the suitcases lined up on the stair landing.

Continued from page 49

business cards in the lobby of their office building in Stamford, Connecticut. The initial prompting to meet came from a friend of Judy.

“We each immediately called our mothers to say, ‘Do you know these people?’” Judy recalls. “It was a year later that we started dating. We realized that we went to the same club; he went in the morning, and I would go in the afternoon.

He went to a party and sat over there, and I went to the same party and sat over here. So we always just missed each other. It was crazy. Fate has a funny way of bringing you together.”

I N T E RI O R V I SI ON

We visited the Sloans at their inviting homes in Millbrook and Wellington. I suspect we overstayed our welcome on both occasions. It must be a common pitfall of stepping into one of David’s imaginative and stunning interiors. A visit generates loads of inquisitiveness, because most of the architectural elements and details he has incorporated have a colorful past.

David’s creative career is built upon repurposing the unwanted into the showcased. A former Marine and international uranium trader who focused on the recycling of Cold War stockpiles of nuclear materials, David is now a resourceful creator of design and image. He accomplishes this by identifying innovative uses for industrial and architectural remnants, repurposing the forgotten and cast-off in a variety of equestrian and lifestyle settings.

In the financial world this would be called arbitrage, but in the world of design it is nothing short of art. In the equestrian community, where David has deep roots, he transforms faceless spaces and items into rich, detailed, and visually stimulating environments designed to tell a story and reflect a multi-layered, modern lifestyle. He masterfully transforms generic barn work-areas and facades into authentic and highly functional spaces that meet the demands of a working show farm.

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As we first navigated the Sloans’ Millbrook home’s interior and exterior spaces and the vivid landscapes accented with allées of trees and ferns, David’s enthusiastic narration included stories of repurposing, “This was a converted ticket booth that’s now an office. I added salvage to the Amish modular barn to break up modern lines. We removed the fret work from this buffet.”

Items that were clearly not of David’s design were the suitcases neatly lined up on the stair landing. David explains, “Judy always has her bags packed and ready, one for her job in Paris, one for Asia, and another to go to a horse show.”

Judy has her own witty tradition that surfaces whenever David initiates an ambitious new remodeling project. She now refers to each new design idea as “project defiance.” “It started with one particular project that turned out great,” Judy laughs. “I was obviously unhappy with the idea, but he just kept plowing through, and I thought, ‘this is defiance in its purest form.’

But then it turned out so well, that any time he wants to do something and I’m not sure about it, we nickname it ‘project defiance.’”

DAVID’ S DESIGN PROC ESS

Above: The reimagined garage; inside the old ticket booth that is now an office; details from Millbrook home.

Opposite: Clockwise from top, Wellington’s living room and dining room; Millbrook’s living room.

David says, “The design question I ask at the start of any project is ‘how can a transformation best impact the space and perception that surround it?’ At the heart of any barn are tack rooms, feed rooms, aisles, and wash stalls.” David explains, “We make these spaces inviting to clients, staff, and owners by creating a sense of place and uniqueness.”

The tone of each of David’s projects is usually set by a key piece of historical salvage. When asked what catches his eye, he laughs and says, “Ironically, I’m guided by the mantra of modernist architecture of ‘form follows function.’ I look for large, well-designed functional items. In barns, we use period institutional display cabinets and storage units. We remove the shelves, install lights behind the trim, and repurpose the Continued on page 55

ROBERT HANSEN

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I

I was injured, but I couldn’t stop riding.

It’s in my blood.

Continued from page 52

inside to be workable for the needs of today’s equestrian.”

The elements from architectural salvage become ideal pieces to hold bridles, saddles, girths, tail extensions, and all the other items of today’s high-end show world. Restored to highlight their amazing craftsmanship and accented with artful lighting, the pieces bring out the natural beauty of tack, coolers, halters, supplements, and storage for blankets and sheets.

Sourcing one-of-a-kind items for projects is a demanding task. Although David carries some inventory on hand, he regularly looks to pickers, antique dealers, metal yards, and architectural salvage operations to meet his needs. Items rescued from now-demolished libraries, factories, schools, warehouses, and large estates built with American quality between 1860 and 1940 are the sources of inspiration for many of David’s projects. He explains, “The historic and burnished pieces add depth and character to any project. Each piece has a story to tell.”

Recently, Sloan created a series of tack rooms, wash stalls, and other work areas for the top hunter rider, Kelley Farmer. Each area is carefully designed to evoke an ambience, while still being highly functional for her large horse operation.

Nothing is shiny, new, or fussy; each element has the character, depth, and patina of time.

Upon entering one of the tack rooms, you might fancy yourself in a discerning London club.

You find saddle racks with dramatic lighting, trophy cases fashioned from 100-year-old ornate

door surrounds, and large-scale apothecary cabinets repurposed as back-lit bridle cases bearing European competition names such as Aachen, Saumur, and Verden. The effect is everyday tack, showcased as art. The focal point of one room is a circa-1920, illuminated movie-poster case repurposed to display a most impressive collection of antique bits, curated by David and his team.

In his work David leaves no detail behind.

The architectural ambiance is enhanced by tastefully designed signage, statuary, and landscapes, making each stable’s environment unique and unpredictable. When asked how he knows if a client is satisfied with a project, David responds with a twinkle, “When a client says they just want to sit in the room, have a cocktail, and take in all the details, I know we nailed it.”

CAREERS IN BALANC E

Above: Judy and David and their respective disciplines.

Opposite: A porch in Millbrook, before and after photographs of the home; Judy’s dressage arena in Millbrook.

Judy is a principal and chief corporate-development officer at Deloitte, an international consulting firm, as well as their country-relationship leader in France. She currently spends one to two weeks each month working in Paris.

She is also an accomplished dressage rider who competes as an adult amateur. Judy grew up showing hunter jumpers, but, after two significant injuries, she decided to make the switch to dressage in 1998. “I was injured but I couldn’t stop riding. It’s in my blood,” explains Judy.

She just had a rewarding winter of competition in Wellington with her sights on competing at Dressage at Devon in the fall. “It’s the most Continued on page 59 JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 5 5

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A LIFE S T YLE C RE ATED BY DESIGN When not refurbishing buildings, David and his team repurpose forgotten military and industrial trailers. Under David’s watchful eye, junk-yard castoffs become 1920s field bars with modern sensibilities for corporate and individual clients, who use them at polo matches, hunt breakfasts, shooting parties, and other varied tailgating events.

He has won many awards for these mobile field vehicles that cleverly house period tents, Persian rugs, and antique campaign furniture— essentially all that is needed to recreate a less formal version of Downton Abbey in the most unlikely locations. Casting a rare, rich, and authentic ambiance, these wagons have proven to be popular backdrops for television programs, various field competitions, and alfresco dinner parties. According to David, “There’s a lot of interest in history that’s not stuffy and formal and can actually be enjoyed by today’s enthusiasts. With our custom field vehicles as a backdrop, clients can host an event that masterfully offers a lifestyle experience that few, if any, can duplicate.”

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We don’t compete...We both decided to stick with our day jobs and disciplines.

Continued from page 55

elite dressage show in the country and you have to qualify,” she adds. “I am showing a couple of horses, Dustin and Lex Lennard. On Dustin, I am already qualified for regionals, and then hopefully Devon. I’ll start showing Lex in the summer and hopefully get him to Devon as well.

“Dustin is a step up for me. He is a very light and electric horse.” Judy tells us. “At the beginning of the season we weren’t really in sync. It’s been a process, and he’s taught me that I need to chill out and be a little bit of the adult. We have gone from scores of 60 percent to my last shows, where we were consistently 66 percent, 67 percent, and this last show 68 percent. It’s really been a build to get Dustin where he trusts me and I trust him. Now we are a really fluid team.

It has been incredible and very rewarding.”

Deloitte is a silver sponsor at Devon this year and has a very active Olympic athlete sponsorship program. Judy explains, “Up until a year and a half ago, they had never sponsored an equestrian athlete. I had been talking to them for three years to look at equestrians for a couple of different reasons. Equestrian is the only Olympic sport where men and women compete on a level playing field. That is huge for Deloitte. We’re all about men and women competing, teaming, and being successful together.

“Laura Graves’ sponsorship is an initial step, and we are thrilled about that,” Judy smiles.

“Since we’ve done that, she is the top rider in the U.S., not because of us, but it’s been a great trajectory. I’ve watched her advance from being a third-level rider to the top spot.”

Judy would like dressage to be more accessible, better understood, and garner more corporate involvement. “Deloitte with Laura, and now the sponsorship of the U.S. ParaDressage Team is a first,” she says.

Judy has found a way to balance the requirements of training and competing with the

demands of her career, and also the ability to draw on the experience of one for the benefit of the other. “Every time I do a major client presentation, I liken it to riding down the centerline. I try for that level of focus, purposefulness, calm, and determination,” Judy says. “If I’ve gone in the ring and ridden the test, and it didn’t go that well, I come out and say, OK, you have to fix this, this, and this, and then you go back in and nail it.

You don’t get flapped.”

DOWNTIM E AT THE SLOA NS

Given the amount of travel and work demands for both David and Judy, “staycations” at one of their two farms has huge appeal. A great source of relaxation is spending time with family, friends, and their three dogs. Judy says, “The homes are havens for me. In Millbrook, dinner parties are de rigueur, and in Wellington, dining out is considered a more relaxed way to socialize.”

David and Judy claim they aren’t competitive in their equestrian accomplishments. “We share all the time,” Judy says. “We talk through the challenges we are having in the saddle and help each other. We don’t compete at who is better at their respective disciplines, but we really do push each other to be better.”

The couple has tried each other’s disciplines out of curiosity, and they’ve both decided to stick to their day jobs and disciplines. “I tried polo and it wasn’t pretty. I found it too rough and tumble,“ Judy laughs. “David tried dressage and thought it was as exciting as watching paint dry. So we are both happy with what we’ve chosen.”

We know the Sloans will continue to move forward at full tilt. Judy will be grabbing one of her packed bags in pursuit of her next blue ribbon, while David will be busily planning his next project defiance.

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LE SAUT HERMÈS The ELITE world of SHOW JUMPING comes to life under the glass roof of the Grand Palais in Paris.

I

T’S IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO BE visually seduced by the staggering beauty of the Saut Hermès event held in the Grand Palais in Paris. The structure—an architectural jewel of classicism and art

nouveau—renders one breathless. To see it transformed into one of the premier international show-jumping events by the house of Hermès leaves one awestruck—even on a return visit.

The core of the Grand Palais is dedicated to equestrian competition during the threeday Le Saut Hermès event, but a stroll around the perimeter reinforces the grandeur and style of Hermès and its long-standing equestrian heritage. Skilled artisans are at work in the saddlery workshop, authors are signing continued on page 65 60 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS BY GEORGE KAMPER

Early morning warm-up in the Grand Palais.

© FRÉDÉRIC CHÉHU / HERMÈS

© FRÉDÉRIC CHÉHU / HERMÈS

Abdelkebir Ouddar, winner of the Hermès Grand Prix.

© FRÉDÉRIC CHÉHU / HERMÈS

Laetitia du Couëdic

Millie Allen, left, and Emma O'Dwyer Michel Robert

continued from page 60

books in the equine-centric bookshop, and chefs, donned in requisite toques, are serving delectables to competitors in the fashionable rider’s lounge. Between competitions, well-heeled shoppers and diners enjoy the tastefully decorated boutiques and cafes with the rhythm of hoofbeats offering melodic background music.

Saut Hermès is considered an unmissable event on the equestrian calendar. Sylvie Hubac, president of the Réunion des Musées Nationaux, an organization committed to culture in the widest sense, explains, “The Saut Hermès fits perfectly with this vision, and every year it promises sport, elegance, and excellence in the historic tradition of the Grand Palais.”

I

T HE C O MP E T I T I ON

n reality, it is the fierce, highstakes competition that has drawn avid fans here for the last seven years to watch horses and their elite riders partner in the quest to achieve greatness under the glass roof the Grand Palais.

This year, stylish crowds gathered to watch world-class champions such as Simon Delestre, Ludger Beerbaum, Scott Brash, and Pénélope Leprévost navigate the technical and highly challenging course designed by internationally renowned parcours designer Frank Rothenberger.

Le Saut also recognizes the impressive competitive field of promising young riders under 25 who are adding to their track records or are well on their way to becoming future show-jumping phenoms. The young riders receive expert coaching from CSI5* riders as

they compete throughout the weekend in individual and paired show-jumping events.

An even younger clutch of aspiring riders get a taste for competing before applauding crowds as they mount their ponies for the Shetland pony races that take place in the center arena. There is no eloquent way of describing this as anything other than an event where the adorable factor is through the glass roof.

As if scripted, this year’s three-day event culminated with an exhilarating, down-to-the-second win in the Grand Prix CSI5* competition. Breaking with the typically reserved decorum, the audience leapt to its feet with resounding applause as Moroccan rider Abdelkebir Ouddar completed a clear round in the jump-off in fewer than 37 seconds.

Ouddar is the first Moroccan rider to win a class at Le Saut Hermès. The animated Ouddar said, “My horse had already given me a wonderful gift by helping me qualify for the Olympic Games. Today, he gave me so much again by winning the Grand Prix Hermès, in front of this great public that gave me all their support!”

A M OV ING M OM ENT

In sharp contrast to the requisite tack and controlled restraint necessary in competition, the Nature at Full Gallop artistic presentation by Bartabas, the director of horses of the National Equestrian Academy of Versailles, celebrated the beauty and freedom of horses in their natural state. The horses cavorted and moved freely in an imaginative interpretation of music that was both mystical and evocative.

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Here and below: The captivating performance of Nature at Full Gallop by Bartabas.

PHOTO APPAWOOSA PHOTO APPAWOOSA

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Hermès CEO Axel Dumas

Riders and organizers at the launch of Le Saut Hermès.

THE PERFECT SEAT The Hermès Allegro was designed for PERFECT BALANCE and PEAK PERFORMANCE, one stitch at a time.

BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS BY GEORGE KAMPER

Laurent Goblet, master saddler

O

ne wonders how learning about the art and collaborative effort of designing an Hermès saddle can become genuinely mesmerizing, but it does, particularly when discovering techniques—some dating back to the late 1800s—from some of the finest saddle makers and riders in the world.

The process involves a melding of directors, saddle designers, engineers, and partner riders steeped in a culture of balancing form and function and unrelenting attention to detail both practical and aesthetic. Yes, this is a saddle, but it’s also a functioning-atthe-highest-level work of art. It’s about providing balance, contact, and comfort, and serving horse and rider in the most minimal way while delivering maximum performance.

Hermès’ long-standing equestrian heritage is at the core—right down to the signature saddle stitch, the finest materials, and the skillful hand construction using tools of years past. The design of new saddles continues to link to the house’s solid foundation of time-honored saddle-making techniques.

Nothing is by chance at Hermès, and the company takes great pride in sharing the comprehensive and innovative details involved in the development of their newest saddle, the Hermès Allegro.

To learn firsthand about the process of developing a new saddle, we sat down with several people integral to the success of the Hermès Allegro, including Marion Larochette; Director of Hermès Equestrian Métier, master saddler Laurent Goblet; and partner rider Daniel Bluman (see page 70).

How do you determine when a new saddle is ready to be released?

Laurent Goblet: You know the saddle is

ready when the rider says “I feel good in the saddle.” If there is a but, then there is something not quite right.

It has been three years since the launch of the Hermès Cavale saddle. Is there a set amount of time you take to pace out saddle designs, or is it strictly based on need?

Marion Larochette: It’s strictly the need.

We don’t have a rule for launching a saddle every year; it just happens. We needed to develop a second saddle very complimentary to Hermès Cavale. The Hermès Allegro offers a very central balance and is adapted to riders who like to sit in the saddle between the jumps.

The Hermès Allegro seems very geared to the style of U.S. riders. Can you elaborate?

LG: We realized the changes they made

on the Allegro were to narrow the tree and make it simpler and finer so the riders are always sitting in sort of a balance. Much like the Steinkraus saddle, it’s less wide.

ML: Some of the riders, mainly in the

U.S., prefer to stay forward between the jumps, and that’s why we developed Hermès Allegro with this very forward balance. It helps the rider stay forward between the jumps and that facilitates the two-point position. Allegro is the daughter of the Steinkraus saddle.

LG: Horse riding such as the hunter in

the U.S. is very elegant and referred to as two-point riding. You’re sitting and also standing, and always moving between the two.

With the exception of the tree, Hermès saddles are made by hand. Do you use any digital tools or software in the initial development of a new saddle?

LG: We use very little. The computer

can closely capture the replica reality of the horses, but when you hold the tree, you can see things more accurately.

When you put this (the tree) on the back of the horse, you actually see how it sits.

It is not really the same.

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ML: Our master saddle designer draws

everything by hand, but now we have someone transform his drawings in 3-D on the computer. There are so many options on the saddle that it really helps us to quickly adapt a saddle for a specific rider. It’s more efficient on the computer.

The drawing and creation part takes time, but then we can use technology to provide faster service for our customer.

We can also keep everything in memory for a specific rider and horse. The shape of the horse can change, and we can easily compare those differences on the computer.

One of your recent saddles used a carbon-fiber tree. The new Hermès Allegro is made with a wood tree. What determines the ideal material?

LG: We realized we wanted to integrate

technology—and there were some good things—but it blocked us in one direction. Carbon technology uses a molded process. The technology didn’t allow us to pursue the idea of making this saddle fit for one horse or several horses. You have to remake the molds to change a saddle. The wood can be corrected and be put into shape more easily. We reworked the Cavale wood tree to make it into the Allegro. The molded technology wasn’t appropriate.

What about the Hermès Allegro facilitates a two-point position for the rider?

LG: It’s a flatter, narrower saddle. You

don’t really need the seat as much for riders who are up and balancing. When you are balancing, you want a narrower seat so the legs are closer, fall straighter, and create more contact with the horse.

How different were the modifications to the partner rider’s Hermès Allegro?

LG: They all have the same seat. The dif-

ferences are minor. Some riders such as Lillie Keenan want blocks, while Pilar Cordon wants none. There are also subtle 70 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

differences in the shape of the flap that are adjusted for leg length.

Everyone who has tried the Allegro feels that it is just right and perfect. It addresses issues that might have been difficult for particular riders.

ML: The two saddles, Hermès Allegro

and Hermès Cavale, are very complementary. We first worked on Cavale, and some of the research on that saddle has helped us with the Allegro.

LG: Our riders are all happy with the

Allegro. All the answers have been taken care of with our partner riders. We don’t need to customize. With Equiscan, a device that provides 90 specific measurements of a horse’s back, we can find the right size and ideal padding for the horse.

This saddle lets you ride with more balance and sensation.

Laurent Goblet and the Hermès Allegro saddle

A CONV ERSATION WITH DA NIEL BLUM AN

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ermès partner rider Daniel Bluman is Colombia’s rising star in international show jumping. He chatted with EQ at Le Saut Hermès about competing; training young riders; his aspirations for competing in his second Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and collaborating with Hermès in the design of the Hermès Allegro, their newest jumping saddle.

Marion Larochette

Can you describe the experience of competing in, and winning, the Rolex Grand Prix in Central Park last year?

Daniel Bluman: It was a very memorable

week for me. To begin with, it’s an amazing venue. You’re jumping in the middle of New York City. I had a very good feeling going into that show, and that it was a good show for my mare to win. The first day she jumped excellently, and we ended up fourth. To jump a clear round at the grand prix on the second Daniel Bluman

day, and then to eventually win that and the U.S. Open Championship and get a bonus—well, that was just spectacular.

What are some of your favorite competition venues?

DB: Of course, the show here at the

Grand Palais is something I think every rider would dream about doing. When I came here three years ago, I was really intimidated—not only by the place, but by the competition and the level of the riders. Now, three years later, I feel much more comfortable being here and confident about the level of my riding and my ability to compete against these big guys.

I understand you’re off to the Olympics?

DB: That’s the plan. We are working

toward that, yes. There is a big possibility that I’m the one going, but it’s a few months away and things can happen. We already have the flight tickets purchased for the family, so you can see some anticipation. I am counting on being one of the riders going, but like I said, we will only know at the end.

How long have you been an Hermès partner rider?

DB: I’ve been a partner a little over three

years. I’ve ridden every saddle with them, and it’s been a fun experience for me.

Did you enjoy being involved in the design of the Hermès Allegro?

DB: For sure. Now that we know the

end result is such a fantastic saddle, yes, I can say I enjoyed it. If you had asked me during the process, I probably would have told you I wasn’t quite enjoying it as much, because I didn’t have a saddle that fit me perfectly before the Hermès Allegro. It’s an amazing saddle. The ride is very complementary to the Hermès Cavale saddle, because not every rider can ride in the Cavale and not every rider can ride in the Allegro. I think between the two saddle options you just covered the whole equestrian world. At the end of

the day, the Allegro is not so far from the old Steinkraus, the most famous saddle that Hermès ever made. It was a bestseller. Everybody had a Steinkraus back in the day.

feel my horse underneath me, and I really like to wrap my legs around my horse.

Were you riding in the Hermès Cavale saddle?

DB: I tried riding in the Cavale and

been riding in it, and from the moment I got it, I started competing in it. I make little changes for each horse to make it perfect, but the Allegro has been working very well for me. I think it’s definitely going to be the best-seller for Hermès now.

tweaked it a little bit. It was still a Cavale, but I started making some changes here and there to make it work.

It was fine, but when you have a saddle and the balance that was made precisely for you, it changes everything. The Allegro is just perfect for me.

How old are you?

DB: I turned 26 this week.

The Hermès Allegro seems geared toward the style of American riders. What are the distinct style differences?

DB: If you look at the American style

through the years, it has always been a much lighter seat. I think it has changed now, and a lot of the Americans have started sitting more and the Europeans are getting out of the seat a lot. The sport is entering a stage where there isn’t such a marked difference between one style and the other. The Cavale, which was developed by Simon Delestre, who is number one in the world, is designed for his riding style, which is more seated.

Simon is a rider who rarely gets out of the saddle. For me, it was very difficult to ride in it because I ride sitting down, but I use a lot of my two-point position when I get to some turns, and I like to get away from the back of the horse.

I

needed a saddle that accommodated my type of riding. A little bit of longer stirrup or shorter stirrup depending on the horse, but really on a light, light seat. I don’t use blocks. I don’t use anything. For me, it’s close contact. I like to

How long have you been riding in the Hermès Allegro?

DB: It must be very close to a year. I’ve

Do you enjoy training other riders?

DB: Yes, definitely. When it’s the right

type of student and person to train, then I do enjoy it. If it’s someone who shows a lot of passion and love for the sport and wants to become a better rider and a better horseman, then I am very encouraged to help them or show them the way to those goals.

What is the most gratifying part of training young riders?

DB:: When you’re training somebody,

it is gratifying to see them get better and improve, to see their horse improve, and of course winning is fantastic. We compete to try to win. That’s what it’s all about. That’s the bigger test. It’s definitely gratifying when a student or a client of yours wins.

As a trainer, what is the best wisdom you can pass on to a student?

DB: The will to learn. I’m a student of

the sport. I believe I’m a person that never stops getting better. I always try to learn more and more, and I never stop questioning anything. I think the sport is in constant evolution, and I believe that the people who ride with me, or surround me, can notice my passion toward learning and improving. I think that’s something I pass along to people that not only ride with me, but also interact with me.

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The rescue story of a FILM ABOUT A RESCUED HORSE that’s really swell and we love it.

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MONICA AND FRANK McCOURT AND THE LONGINES GLOB AL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

MAJOR LEAGUE

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MAJOR PHOTOS: GEORGE KAMPER

rank McCourt, the billionaire owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, had sold the team for a reported $2 billion and was looking for a new sport to use his expertise in the field of sports business. (He also owns the Los Angeles Marathon race.)

Frank had met and married Monica Algarra, who quickly intro-

duced him to the world of horses. Monica said, “I didn’t ride as a child except for the occasional pony ride at a birthday party or trail rides at a dude ranch. I started riding very late in life. In my early 30s, I bought Archie, a $5,000 trail horse, who turned out to be a great first horse. He was nothing fancy, but he taught me the

most important tool for every rider: confidence.

“Frank knew nothing about horses. Back when we were dating I put him on Archie, and we went for a simple trail ride with a friend of mine. Frank had never really ridden prior to that day, but I figured that he was athletic enough to go for a trail ride on

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SPORTFOT

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BREATHTAKING VENUES ADD TO THE LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR’S EXCITEMENT.

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eanwhile with his new exposure to the horse world, Frank was thinking about a new business venture.“Shortly after selling the Dodgers,” he explained, “I began looking at opportunities to build something exciting, sports-related, and of global significance. I had Blackstone researching potential options for me, and they included the Global Champions Tour (GCT). They set up a meeting in

SPORTFOT

bomb-proof Archie. My friend and I cantered off, leaving Frank in the dust.

When I looked back, Frank was cantering towards us, trying to slow the horse.

My girlfriend whispered to me, ‘Wow, Frank is doing so well on his first ride!’

I replied, ‘Yes he is, but even a monkey could ride Archie.’ Well, Frank heard us, and suffice it to say, he was not pleased.”

Monica’s riding expertise has continued to grow, but now usually without Frank along for the ride. “I tried the hunters, and then jumpers, which I found to be a better fit for me,” she said.

“For my 37th birthday, Frank bought me my first jumper in Cape Cod. I started taking lessons on a weekly basis, and I soon dove in head-first. I was hooked.

I guess I have an ‘all or nothing’ kind of personality. When I do something, I go at it full tilt! We decided we should move to Wellington for the winter. I did the training jumpers for a while before moving up to the low adults, then eventually I went on to Europe to compete in the globals.”

GILMORE

Right: Monica competing at WEF, and below, with husband Frank.

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Opposite: Clockwise from upper left, GCT venues include Paris, Miami Beach, and Qatar, as well as Mexico City, Antwerp, Belgium, Shanghai, Hamburg, Madrid, Chantilly, France, Cannes, Monaco, Cascais, Estoril, Rome and Vienna.

Paris with Jan Tops, a Dutch Olympic show-jumping champion, who started the GCT in 2006. The two of us hit it off immediately, and it quickly became evident that partnering with Jan was exactly the sort of building opportunity I was looking for.”

Frank saw that the public viewed equestrian sports as elitist and overly complicated. There was much money involved, but professional riders often had a difficult time making ends meet.

As the Financial Times noted, “For all its drama, show jumping has limited television revenues and a complicated schedule of overlapping competitions. Its superstars earn only a fraction of those in tennis, golf, or Formula 1, and the majority of riders earn nothing—they have to pay to take part.” As for his partnership with McCourt, Tops added, “We can complement each other. I have known this sport by heart for 30 years. I know all the stakeholders. But we needed a more commercial side, with sponsorships and television.”

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ogether, they created a new Longines Global Champions League (GCL) with a format similar to Formula 1. Each team consists of four main riders and pays to enter the league. Two of the riders can be from the top 30 in the world rankings, and two have to be up-and-coming competitors. The teams score points throughout the season toward $12 million in prize money and include the Miami Glory, Paris Jets, Rome Gladiators, and Shanghai Swans.

Breathtaking venues add to the tour’s excitement. Said Frank, “From the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, to the glamour of Cannes and Monte Carlo, to the modern luxuries of Doha, every venue is unique, and the competition is top-notch at all of them.

“I’m confident that the GCT and the GCL will spark a groundswell of new show-jumping fans around the world,” JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 7 5

Frank added. “It’s still early days, but so far it looks like we’ve hit a home run. We’ve received extremely positive feedback from the teams, from individual riders, and from sponsors. In my mind, that’s what it’s all about—introducing new people to show jumping through an exciting and engaging format. The more we can do to expose new markets to the excitement of the sport, the faster show jumping will reach a tipping point and receive the mainstream media attention and commercial growth opportunities that Formula 1 and other sports currently enjoy.”

Monica and Georgina Bloomberg recently purchased the Miami Glory, the team that hosted the exciting GCL jumping competition directly on the sands of Miami Beach. The team includes Scott Brash, Kent Farrington, Georgina Bloomberg, Kimberly Prince, and Jessica Mendoza.

During the winter, Monica’s horses live at her 10-acre Rushy Marsh Farm in Wellington’s Grand Prix Village. The barn is a few steps from the competition rings at 76 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

THE OLYMPICS ARE NOT IN MY TRAJECTORY...

HOWEVER, PERHAPS MY DAUGHTER LUCIANA’S STORY WILL BE DIFFERENT. WEF. This summer, she and her trainer,

Kimberly Prince, are taking 10 horses to her base in Holland for the European competitions. ushy Marsh, named after the McCourt’s farm on Cape Cod, was originally a sterile and generic barn, but Monica worked with interior designer Edwina Alexis to turn it into the beautiful facility seen here. “Edwina is a Texas girl, as am I, so we hit it off from the get-go,” said Monica. “She and I work well together because she invests in understanding my vision and always executes beautifully at an elevated level. She has since done my

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daughter Luciana’s nurseries at our homes in Montana, Cape Cod, and Wellington, and she has just started a new and exciting project for our new home in Wellington. The landscape architect was Morgan Wheelock. (See EQ Spring 2015.) We brought them in to design our 112-acre antique farm in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, two years ago. When it came time to choose a landscape architect for Rushy Meadow, we knew exactly who to call.”

Monica introduced us to Snapchat, the horse she was leading. “Snappy is a very athletic and smart mare who loves to compete,” Monica explained. “She has a wonderfully loving and affectionate disposition. Like me, she’s a go-getter, and I believe her to be very Type A. The very first week I owned her, I competed with her at the GCT show in Valkenswaard and won blue ribbons two days in a row.”

Opposite: Monica and her new daughter, Luciana, who was named after Monica’s mother.

Above: The entrance gate to Rushy Marsh Farm in Wellington’s Grand Prix Village.

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How far does Monica think she can go in competion? “As to the future, the Olympics are not in my trajectory,” she laughed. “However, perhaps my daughter Luciana’s story will be different. My personal short-term riding goal is to get my core and abs back so that I can successfully compete in the 1.15/1.20meter jumpers. Having recently given childbirth, I am working on rebuilding my strength. My long-term goalis to successfully compete in the 1.25-meter low amateur jumpers.”

Monica paused by an old, framed photograph of a woman with a can of coffee and explained, “That’s my mother when she was 16. She appeared on billboards and in commercials across Colombia for Nescafé (without my grandparents’ consent!). I cherish that photograph very much. To me it symbolizes her independent spirit that she eventually passed down to me. My love of animals came from her. She grew up on a farm in Colombia and had every type of animal you could imagine, including a pet 78 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

MY FARM IS LIKE NOAH’S ARK. I LIKE MY ANIMALS IN PAIRS. chicken, which my grandfather ended up slaughtering for dinner. Perhaps that was her punishment for her secret modeling career!” o it’s apparent why Rushy Marsh is home to a full, OldMcDonald-style array of farm animals housed in a paddock in front of a smaller barn where Jessica Springsteen’s horses live and train. Monica made the animal introductions, “The pigs are named Chico and Cha Cha. The minidonkeys are Chiquita and Chula. The mini-horses are Hippopotamus and Thumbelina. They were all rescued from

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a hoarding situation. I wanted to give them a happier and healthier life.

“In the beginning, they were absolutely terrified of humans, very antisocial overall, and over a period of just a few months I was able to earn their trust.

It’s very rewarding to see that they have learned to love and trust people. My farm is like Noah’s Ark—I like my animals in pairs!” In addition, there are pairs of chickens, pigs, and fluffy rescued rabbits, as well as Aflac, a duck.

The McCourt’s baby, Luciana, is named after Monica’s mom. “I’m hoping she is going to like horses. I’m heavily invested,” Monica smiled. “We will be relying on her godfather Jan [Tops] to find us her own little Snappy when she is old enough to ride.” All in all, Rushy Marsh should be a fun place for her to grow up.

Above: The tack room and aisle at Rushy Marsh.

Opposite: Top, a smaller barn where Jessica Springsteen’s horses live and train. Middle row right, Monica’s mother appeared on billboards and in commercials across Colombia in ads for Nescafé.

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EUGÈNE DELACROIX (French, 1798-1863) Cheval vetu pour la promenade, 1832 Watercolor on paper 4 5/8”H x 7 3/16”W Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs.Paul Mellon Photo by Troy Wilkinson© Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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THE FRENCH HORSE Géricault to Picasso: Works from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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he National Sporting Library and Museum, located in the historic equestrian town of Middleburg, Virginia, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the culture of equestrian, angling, and field sports.

The current exhibition, organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is on view until July 31. The works include more than 40 major paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by artists as varied as Pablo Picasso, Antoine-Louis Barye, Edgar Degas, and Théodore Géricault. The pieces represent every major movement in French art from Romanticism to Fauvism.

The National Sporting Museum was founded in 1954 and has expanded to become a library, research facility, and art museum with over 26,000 books and works of art in its collections.

The museum exhibits American and European fine animal and sporting art. Temporary exhibitions, as well as lectures, seminars, and special events are held continuously, open to researches as well as to the public.

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CARLE (ANTOINE CHARLES HORACE) VERNET (French, 1758-1836) Mameluke on Horseback, with Bow and Arrow, ca. 1800 Watercolor on wove paper 12 5/8”H x 15 7/8”W Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon Photo by David Stover© Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

HILAIRE GERMAIN EDGAR DEGAS (French, 1834-1917) Thoroughbred Horse Walking, cast 1919-21 Bronze 5 3/8”H x 4 1/8”W x 8 3/8”D Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon Photo by Katherine Wetzel© Virginia Museum of Fine Arts 82 | E Q UE S T R I A N L I V I N G | J U N E/ J U LY | 2016

ALFRED DE DREUX (French, 1810-1860) A Trumpeter of the Life Guards, ca. 1851 Oil on canvas 36”H x 28”W Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon Photo by Travis Fullerton© Virginia Museum of Fine Arts JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 8 3

HILAIRE GERMAIN EDGAR DEGAS (French, 1834-1917) Jockey Facing Left, ca. 1870-80 Blue pastel on laid paper 12 ½”H x 9 ½”W Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon Photo by Troy Wilkinson© Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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A M E R I C A’ S F I N E S T H O M E S , FA R M S , A N D

RANCHES FROM EQUESTR IAN LIVING

EQU E STR I A N P R O P E RT I E S EQLiving.com

June/July 2016

AN IMPECC AB LE C ALIFORNIA EQUESTRIAN ESTATE

RANCHO SANTA FE

SEE PAGE 86

ALSO: DESIGNING FOR HORSES AND PEOPLE

ER EEQ Q UU E SETSRTIRAINA N P RPORPOE PRT I ETSI E S

THE BELMONT Old world charm and understated GRANDEUR define this eight-acre equestrian estate.

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oth inside and out, no detail was overlooked, and no expense was spared to make “The Belmont� a luxurious, yet comfortable, estate in coastal-close Del Rayo Estates of Rancho Santa Fe, California.

The main residence of approximately 16,000 sq ft is a blend of formal and intimate gathering spaces. The great room centers around a grand imported stone fireplace and opens to the kitchen and billiard rooms. There are two secluded

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offices. The lavish master suite beckons with a foyer, fireplace, private garden, fountain, and sunny morning room.

Seven en-suite bedrooms offer plenty of privacy. Immaculately manicured grounds showcase a world-class equestrian facility with a dressage arena, pastures, and a four-stall barn. The rich, mature landscaping and authentic rock quarry beach entry pool, waterfall, and pavilion create an intensely private personal resort. Other thoughtful additions

include a detached two bedroom guest casita, tennis and sports court, six bay service building, fitness center and arcade building, and separate staff and vendor entrance. Price upon request.

Gloria Shepard & Kathy Lysaught (858) 759-6700 gloria@gshepardhomes.com

E Q U E S T R I A N P R O P E RT I E S

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ER EEQ Q UU E SETSRTIRAINA N P RPORPOE PRT I ETSI E S

SCALE IN BARN DESIGN Balancing the needs of HORSES and HUMANS.

BY HOLLY MATT

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think one of the reasons we humans like to be in barns with our horses is the scale of the space in which they live.

We like the big spaces that feel open. Horses are very aware of their environment at all times. Even though most are far more domesticated than their ancestors, they are still ever attentive to what is happening around them. I think if you spend enough time with them, it rubs off on you, too. You become more aware of what they are doing and what you are doing near them.

You notice what they are looking at, what intrigues them, and what makes them comfortable or uncomfortable, all without words.

What horses need is related to their scale or size. They need room to move safely. They need fresh air to breathe indoors all the time, and as much natural light as possible. They are a social herd animal, and they need company in sight. These are things that we must honor to keep them healthy and sound of mind and body.

These basic needs can be expressed in a barn in numerous ways, but they have to be understood by the horse as well as the human. The horse understands the scale of things.

Therein lies the challenge. Providing a perfectly scaled environment that a horse understands.

BA L A N C I N G H OR SE A N D H U M A N N E E DS

We build stables or barns primarily for the same reason we did a century

Holly Matt is the principal of her architectural firm, Pegasus Design Group. The Southern Pines, N.C, firm often works as a consultant with other architects and contractors as part of the design team, contributing equine expertise to the design and construction process. In addition to being an accomplished architectural designer with two decades of experience, Holly is a lifelong horse enthusiast and equine professional. Raised on a farm in Virginia where horses were bred for race and show, she has competed and officiated in regional, national, and international-level horse events in hunter, jumper, dressage and eventing disciplines for the past 40 years, including competing at USEF National and FEI International levels of eventing.

ago: to protect our horses from the elements and predators. Still, much has changed. In our increasingly nonagrarian environment, the reasons and ways we relate to our horses are different from they once were. Although there are more horses in our country today than at any other time in our history, their populations are more concentrated, and there are fewer available spaces to house them. This has impacted the way barns,

stables, and other equine facilities are designed today.

Whether you’re adding to an existing stable or starting a complete facility from scratch, construction is always a significant investment. The costs of doing it wrong, re-doing it, or living with a less-than-ideal solution far outweigh those of doing it right the first time. But for most of us, the design process is a daunting one, fraught with mysterious zoning restrictions and building codes, two-dimensional line drawings we don’t understand, and too many choices. As a result, far too often we settle for a onesize-fits-all facility, and spend the next many years bemoaning its shortcomings.

How can a horse owner, trainer, or stable owner ensure their animals’ built environment meets their needs?

I believe the answer lies in balancing the needs of horses and the humans who care for them. It is not only possible but essential to create spaces in which the horses’ physical and emotional well-being are paramount. When we allow human needs to override those of our horses, we risk compromising our animals’ safety, health, and happiness. It also risks becoming unsustainable from a natural-resource perspective.

HORSES’ NEEDS

First and foremost, horses need a sense of home—a place of comfort, safety, and routine. Like people, horses are happier and more productive when their living and working environment is clean, well organized, and pleasant. A healthy equine environment is naturally light Continued on page 92

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ER EEQ Q UU E SETSRTIRAINA N P RPORPOE PRT I ETSI E S

Grand Prix Village - There’s a 16-stall barn that includes a half-bathroom, two tack rooms, two feed rooms, and wash stations. A one-bedroom grooms’ apartment is on the second floor of the building, and includes a full bathroom and kitchen. Connected to the barn is a full owners’ home with vaulted ceilings and a gourmet kitchen. Offered at $13,950,000

Grand Prix Village - With six-acres of land, an 18-stall center aisle barn, gorgeous lake views, and hacking distance to the Winter Equestrian Festival, this property has everything a discerning equestrian could desire.

There’s a spacious owners’ lounge with vaulted ceilings and skylights. Grass Grand Prix field and all weather ring in place. Offered at $12,750,000

Across from Horse Show - 4.5 acre farm boasts solar tunnel lighting, solar panel power, gorgeous bamboo wood Rower & Rub Stalls, Nelson automatic waters, and a luxurious detached owners lounge overlooking the ring. The home has a pool with outdoor kitchen and balcony that overlooks the farm.

Offered at $12,750,000

Grand Prix Village: Newly constr ucted 20-stall equestrian facility with spacious 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom owner’s quarters upstairs and amazing kitchen with topof-the-line appliances. Downstairs viewing room opens to the riding arena. Full bathroom and office with plenty of storage, 4 wash stalls, laundry, tack and feed rooms.

Offered at $12,000,000

Grand Prix Village - Situated on 4-acres of lush land, is an amazing 20-stall barn with 4 wash stalls, 2 tack rooms, a laundry room, and a feed room. The owners’ lounge has a beautiful fireplace as the focal point, as well as a kitchen with great room for entertaining and a wonderful view of the 220’ x 120’ competition ring with superior custom footing. Offered at $11,900,000

Palm Beach Point - 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom masterpiece with state-of-the-art amenities, soaring ceilings, and spectacular architecture. The 11-acre compound boasts a first class equestrian facility designed by a renowned equestrian. Magnificent 14stall barn with grooms’ quarters, professional ring with all-weather footing, and 10-oversized paddocks. Offered at $11,500,000

Saddle Trail - Customizable 30 stall farm with 3bedroom, 3 bathroom pool home on 6.25 acres in Saddle Trail. This superbly designed professional farm is complete with a huge sub-irrigated (Riso System) Ring with Martin Collins CLOPF Footing, grand prix jump field, lounging ring and a 6 horse covered walker.

Short hack to WEF showgrounds. Offered at $8,000,000

Las Palmas Ranch - 24+ acres in gated Las Palmas.

Close to the WEF and Global Dressage. This custombuilt home includes 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths and gourmet kitchen. Brilliantly appointed with Stone, Granite and Hardwood throughout. The property has a total of 20 stalls between two barns, grooms quarters, Bermuda grass field and bridle path. Offered at $7,950,000

Saddle Trail - 30 stall equestrian facility with 5bedroom, 3.5 bath pool home on 6.2 acres in Saddle Trail. Farm is complete with a new Olympic all weather sub-irrigated ring, grass jump field, 6 horse Kraft covered walker and a detached storage garage. Offered at $7,250,000

Carol A. Sollak, P.A. • Phone +1 561-818-9476 • Fax +1 561-791-2221 www.carolsollak.evusa.com • Wellington, Florida • Carol.Sollak@evusa.com

©2016 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Carr Sollak Realty, LLC licensee of Engel & Voelkers Florida Residential, LLC. 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.

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E Q U E S T R I A N P R O P E RT I E S

Palm Beach Little Ranches - 10 acre horse farm just minutes to the equestrian venues & showgrounds. The center-aisle barn is fully air-conditioned. The property features a tack room & office, powder & laundry room, outdoor arena, round pen and grass paddocks.

Offered at $1,295,000 Matt Johnson +1 561-313-4367

Saddle Trail - This private 5-acre property has a residence that includes four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a large kitchen with gorgeous views overlooking the pool area. The property currently has a 5-stall barn, large grass paddocks and riding arena with the ability to have up to 20-stalls. Offered at $5,999,000 Matt Johnson +1 561-313-4367

Palm Beach Polo ∙ Kensington - Volume ceilings throughout the home and tons of windows allow natural light to flow through the open floor plan. Coral gas fireplace, Clive Christian kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and a 6-burner Viking gas range with grill top. Offered at $3,450,000 Amy Carr +1 561-662-0728

Palm Beach Polo ∙ Winding Oaks - This lovely 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom Winding Oaks home is perfect for entertaining. The house includes an open kitchen with a breakfast bar, a 6 burner gas cooktop, as well as an informal dining space that has sliding glass doors that open up to the outdoor space. Offered at $1,800,000 Amy Carr +1 561-662-0728

Aspen Glen - Private 15 acre custom designed home with top equestrian facilities, unmatched in quality, design & finishes. Every detail was meticulously considered. Stunning stable with exposed wood beams, grooming bays, wash & storage areas. Riding arena with underground watering system, hot walker and round pen. Beautifully landscaped with private hacking paths throughout which compliment the subdivision’s trail system. Three grooms apartments and separate ancillary buildings with veterinary / farrier rooms, feed storage and multiple equipment bays. The main residence features cathedral ceilings, fireplace with floor to ceiling stone chimney, wood & marble floors, elevator, screened balconies and infinity pool with private water vistas.

Offered at $11,000,000 Matt Johnson +1 561-313-4367

Palm Beach Polo ∙ Muirfield - Beautiful concrete floors flow throughout the 3 bed, 3 bath home with vaulted ceilings and tons of natural light. The modern and sleek kitchen is masterfully equipped with all of the bells and whistles. Offered at $695,000 Amy Carr +1 561-662-0728

Wellington Equestrian Oasis - Stunning 15 acre equestrian estate in a private gated enclave. Designed with an eye for detail and tranquility, the property offers a 4Br/4Ba main residence, 2Br/2Ba manger’s home with two additional staff apartments, totaling 4 bedrooms. The equine amenities offered are a 12 stall stable, jumping arena, grass grand prix or hunter field and wonderful turnout paddocks. The infinity edge pool, yoga & Pilates studio and the flow of this home offer a Zen quality never been seen before in the area. A true masterpiece.

Offered at $9,800,000 on 10 acres or $11,000,000 on 15 acres Matt Johnson +1 561-313-4367

The real estate agency with the international network: wellington.evusa.com

©2016 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Carr Sollak Realty, LLC licensee of Engel & Voelkers Florida Residential, LLC. 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.

JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 9 1

ER EEQ Q UU E SETSRTIRAINA N P RPORPOE PRT I ETSI E S

Exquisite Southern California Equestrian Living

Rare equestrian estate that has 10 acres of usable land and breathtaking panoramic views.

The infinity edge pool over looks amenities such as a 4 stall barn, 2 extra stalls, arena, 5 pastures, ranch manager's office, access to community horse trails, and 2 story guest house.

The vineyard of cabernet grapes and mature oak trees add to the home's serenity. Fully fenced, gated, 2 entrances, RV parking, and agricultural well make this a working ranch to call home. This equestrian area is just an hour from San Diego and the beaches of Orange County. More online at www.40075avenidalacresta.greatluxuryestate.com

Constance Burke Equestrian Specialist (951) 219-7108 Connieburkeproperties.com Calbre# 01894022

Continued from page 88

SCALE IN BARN DESIGN BALANCING THE NEEDS OF HORSES AND HUMANS

and airy, and has good ventilation but isn’t drafty. Ventilation needs to be addressed at the building level (windows, doors, eaves) as well as at the stall level (low-level ammonia and fresh air). This is one of the most important aspects, and it is often overlooked.

This healthy environment provides opportunities for horses to relate to their stablemates. It facilitates the daily tasks of caretaking and is free of clutter and noise. In short, it supports a horse’s daily routine of work, rest, and play. Motivations and priorities have to be horse-centered, their comfort over yours—in regard to space, ventilation, light, temperature, and safe egress (aisleways and access). Providing such a space not only ensures a horse’s physical and emotional welfare, it fosters trust between horse and trainer, ultimately enhancing productivity and performance.

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H U M AN NEEDS

Of course, a stable is also a work area for people. Not surprisingly, humans and horses share basic needs for comfort, safety, and routine. Horse owners also have practical needs over and beyond those of their horses, and these needs affect productivity, efficiency, and enjoyment of their work. For example, we need a safe and convenient place to store food, bedding, and hay. We need separate tack and equipment rooms, and possibly other rooms depending on the facility. We are all familiar with the basic components of a stable. Still, one size does not fit all. There are important differences in facility layouts, building types, and equipment that can affect the overall health and attitude of both horse and human. Good architectural design ensures that these components relate to your discipline, the way you work and train, any surrounding structures or

outdoor arenas, geography, and, of course, capital costs.

THE BENEFITS OF A H OR SECENTERED APPROAC H

A design approach that puts a horse’s physical and emotional needs first need not be more costly than the alternative, nor does it require undue compromise from the humans involved in their training and care. It does, however, mean changing the way we think about equine facility design. Rather than buying an out-of-the-box package for construction expedience, aesthetic appeal, or perceived cost reasons, build your horse a home that assures comfort, safety, and optimal functionality. You’ll not only be pleased with the way your horses respond in training and competition, you’ll enjoy authentic partnership, greater productivity, efficiency, and return on your investment as well.

E Q U E S T R I A N P R O P E RT I E S

KiamaLise Herres

WRE/Bellevue Commons, Inc 206.679.5322 kiama@windermere.com EnchantingHomesandFarms.com

Aimee Mills

WRE/Southeast, Inc 206.909.9655 aimee@windermere.com aimee-mills.com

Lynette Thomas

WRE/Mill Creek, Inc 425.953.4090 lynette@windermere.com lynettethomas.com

Sara Vowels

WRE/Bellevue Commons, Inc 206.276.8990 saravowels@windermere.com saravowels.withwre.com

Elise Miller

WRE/Southeast, Inc. 425.442.3090 elisem@windermere.com elisem.withwre.com

Ashley Farrington

WRE/Woodinville, HLC 425.890.0025 afarrington@windermere.com ashleyfarrington.com

JUNE /JULY | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 9 3

ER EEQ Q UU E SETSRTIRAINA N P RPORPOE PRT I ETSI E S

THE BEST OF MINNESOTA

WHITEFISH CHAIN OF L AKES , CENTRAL MN. Magnificent 569-acre private equestrian estate has 300 feet of perfect sand beach on the north shore of Lower Hay Lake of the Whitefish Chain of 14 Lakes. The fine equestrian facility has 6 box stalls, wash stall, tack room, bathroom, covered hot walker and fenced in turn out.

The Lower Hay Lake main home boasts four bedrooms, five bathrooms and has 7968 finished square feet. There are two separate docks for your watercraft toys along with guest dockage. Two separate boathouses that are complete with track systems and a bathroom. Each boathouse accommodates two boats. For guests there is a three bedroom guest house and a self-sufficient Mother-in-law cottage. For storage there is a two car attached garage, a detached three bay garage and two bay machine garage that overlooks the tennis court. There is a tree house for the kids and a fenced dog run providing something for everyone in

the family. Fly into your own private airport on a 3500 foot asphalt runway, two hangars and two additional storage buildings. There are also underground Avgas and jet fuel tanks. The acreage that encompasses the entirety of Deer Lake features side by side duplexes for on-site staff, a separate caretaker cottage right on the lake that provides views of deer, beaver, migrating swans, turkey and other waterfowl. Enjoy the great outdoors as there is an extensive trail system that winds throughout 400 acres of the property. It is truly a hunter’s paradise. Rely on your own on-site gas pump as well as lakeside gas and diesel pumps for boats. Enjoy boating, fishing, hunting and all that the famous Whitefish Chain has to offer. Your search has ended as you have found the best piece of Minnesota equestrian property to retreat to.

LARSON GROUP REAL ESTATE/SHORES & MORE

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BRUCE K. LARSON, CRS/GRI Broker/Owner Located in Crosslake Town Square 35770 Allen Avenue, Suite II PO Box 929, Crosslake, MN 56442 Office: 218-692-6920 Fax: 218-692-6921 Cell: 218-831-7653 Bruce@LarsonGroupRealEstate.com 2016

E Q U E S T R I A N P R O P E RT I E S

Appleton Manor

This Federal Colonial with a Mansard Roof was built in the early 1800's.

This home sits on 13 +/- acres, with beautiful outbuildings including a heated four car garage, carriage house and 12 stall antique barn.

NEW IPSWICH, NH | $995,000 | MLS#4464712 STEVEN MCDONOUGH | 603.582.8747

Hillside Equestrian Farm

Designed by experienced equestrians, this facility was built with attention to the most minor detail, exceptional not only for its physical beauty, but for its function.

SHARON, VT | $850,000 | MLS#4481127 MELISSA ROBINSON | 603.667.7761

Beauty and Solitude

A rare opportunity to own this extraordinary equestrian property on 38 pristine acres with complete privacy, surrounded by large parcels and close to lake for boating and swimming. Special features include Double B barn, regulation dressage ring, outbuildings and custom log home.

WHITINGHAM, VT | $489,000 | MLS#4439427 ARLENE PALMITER | 802.380.3077

Charming and Unique Equestrian Estate

Gorgeous lodge with views of the Mahoosuc Range, enhanced by 9 stall, three story horse barn with dressage ring, 16 acres of fenced pasture, 7 km of groomed eventing trails on 77 acres.

MILAN, NH | $760,000 SARA MAFFEI | 802.291.3850

Artfully uniting extraordinary homes with extraordinary lives.

BEDFORD MEREDITH MT. SNOW WEST LEBANON MANCHESTER VT

603.413.7600 603.677.7012 802.464.4608 603.298.5155 802.362.4551

Authentical Restored Farmhouse and Barn

Featuring 6.9 acres on Dorset's West Road offering custom country kitchen, family room, formal living and dining rooms, five bedrooms and three baths.

Beautiful restored barn with heated work-shop, exercise room, two horse stalls, hay loft, run-in shed, fenced pastures.

DORSET, VT | $1,485,000 | MLS#4424771 TERRI HATHAWAY | 802.233.9077

EQProperties_June_cover.indd 95

FourSeasonsSIR.com Each Office is| Independently Owned and Operated.

JUNE/JULY 2 0 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 95

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E Q U E S T R I A N P R O P E RT I E S

We offer specialized property acquisition and consulting services through designated representation. As uniquely qualified real estate professionals, rely on us when you need to be there, but can’t. When the cost of your time away is too great. When confidentiality is necessary. When you need a trusted, independent opinion. Or when you need to identify, vet and select a buyer’s agent that’s just right | EQ | J U N E/you | 2016 UE S T R I Learn A N L I more V I N G before J U LYbuy. for96your situation.

It could be the soundest decision you make. woodruffgroup.net | 573.823.5680

EQ E S S E N T I A L S | D I N I N G

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Wellington’s OLI’S FASHION CUISINE is a favorite of the horse community.

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LOBSTER TACOS Ingredients

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BY C.W.MEDINGER

ou can be assured that whenever the Equestrian Living magazine team is in Wellington, Florida, and after we’ve wrapped up our photoshoots, there will be a visit to Oli’s on our agenda. And we aren’t alone. According to the Palm Beach Post, Oli’s has hosted Bill Clinton, Robert Duvall, Michael Jordan, Bill Gates, Jimmy Buffett, and even Vanilla Ice. But more important than the names and buzz is the fact that Juan Gando and his business partner, chef Dustin Parfitt have created beloved neighborhood hangouts, where locals can count on inspired, well-prepared dishes and warm hospitality.

Wonton wrappers deep-fried into taco shells 8 ounces poached lobster, chopped into ½-inch pieces 2 tablespoons minced red onion 2 tablespoons minced cucumber ¼ cup aji amarillo sauce 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lime juice ½ cup quinoa cooked 1 avocado sauce ½ cup shredded cabbage 1 diced roma tomato 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro Extra virgin olive oil 1 grated carrot

Preparation AJI AMARILLO MAYO

Mix the mayo, lime juice, aji amarillo chili sauce, and honey together using a whisk. This will be used as the sauce for the slaw and on the side for dipping the tacos.

CILANTRO LIME SLAW

Mix ½-cup shredded cabbage, cilantro, diced roma tomato, shredded carrot, and 3 tablespoons of aji amarillo mayo.

CITRUS QUINOA

Mix together in a bowl the quinoa, cucumber, onion, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.

ASSEMBLY

Chef/Owner Dustin Parfitt and Owner Juan Gando.

Now that we have all the prep done, it is time to build the tacos.

1. Take each taco shell and layer the citrus quinoa on the bottom.

2. Lay a slice of fresh avocado in the middle.

3. Next put 3 or 4 pieces of the poached lobster on top of the avocado.

4. Top with the cilantro lime slaw.

5. Serve extra aji amarillo mayo on the side.

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“Daddy, you’ll never be able to ride him,” I blurted out, not yet understanding that a successful businessman, any man for that matter, doesn’t want to hear what he can’t do.

Continued from page 20

awkwardly out of the box where he’d been held prisoner for 10 or 12 hours.

Glad to see the blue-skied world again, he thoughtfully nibbled the grass by the roadside while we exchanged pleasantries with his ex-owner and sent him rattling back to Canada. “Mr. Coker is not a bad name,” said my dad. “Maybe we should call him that.”

My mother, younger sister, and I agreed. They hopped in the car, and I led the colt up the long winding road home.

Little did I guess then that he would not only be my best friend through my rough and rocky teen years, but would find me the man who became my husband.

“Coming three. Not broke yet. Jumps good though. Let me show you.”

He picked up a coil of rope by the tractor, tied it to the horse’s halter and let him out behind the barn, where a couple of oil drums served as jump standards and some four-by-fours their rails. He sent the colt out circling around him at a brisk trot and soon had him jumping handily over the makeshift obstacle. He was a horseman’s horse; not pretty, not cute, but handsome in his own way; dark brown—not a white hair anywhere to be seen—and big and scopey. He might be a good jumper someday. His head was shaped like an ironing board, with a prominent Roman nose; definitely not elegant, but OK.

TWO HORSE PEOPLE IN THE CITY

WORKMAN PUBLISHING

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is dark eyes looked a bit roguish to me, not surprising, for at 3 years he was still not saddle broken. Most colts get broken at 2, before they are too strong or opinionated. He was still barefoot, so apparently no blacksmith had shod him yet. Also not a good sign. He did jump well…but an unbroken 3-year-old? Not a good choice for a middle-aged weekend rider who thought he rode better than, in fact, he did.

“Daddy, you’ll never be able to ride him,” I blurted out, not yet understanding that a successful businessman, any man for that matter, doesn’t want to hear what he can’t do. So he bought him on the spot. No vet, no nothing. Uh-oh, I thought to myself as we drove away. I had let my mother down; this was not

the right horse for him.

Mr. Coker delivered the colt himself all the way from Guelph, Ontario, to East Barnard, Vermont, where my family spent the summers on an old farm almost as dilapidated as the one where we found the colt. We had to lead him up the mile-long road to the farm because it was too rutted and rough and steep for any horse trailer, let alone that rattletrap.

The trailer was so narrow that the skin had rubbed off the colt’s broad hip bones.

He had to duck his head as he backed

W

e horse people do occasionally climb off our horses and venture into the City. In fact, my husband and I actually lived there for a couple of years on East 88th Street in the 1960s. Several decades before that, George Morris, chef d’equipe of our show-jumping team, was born in the former Doctor’s Hospital, just around the corner, so I guess that qualifies him as a bona fide New Yorker.

George and I, friends since our teen years, met again in the ‘60s on 88th Street because he was dating the sister of our friend who lived downstairs.

Continued on page 102

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Menlo Charity Horse Show Benefiting...

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Artist, Rick Timmons

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Featuring $40,000 BENTLEY GRAND PRIX • $25,000 USHJA INTERNATIONAL HUNTER DERBY FRIDAY NIGHT GALA GRACIOUSLY UNDERWRITTEN BY STEPHEN SILVER FINE JEWELRY

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George [Morris], who had been hiding in the bathroom, charged into the room and leapt onto the coffee table, shouting, “I am Orestes” and quoted several lines from the Greek tragedy they were rehearsing that week.

Continued from page 98

Having won the show-jumping team silver and placing fourth as an individual in the 1960 Olympics in Rome, George put aside his riding career in favor of the theater; he was studying at the Neighborhood Playhouse, a prominent acting school in New York.

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ne evening our friends downstairs called to invite us for a beer as they had a surprise for us. After we settled in our seats, beer in hand, and exchanged pleasantries, George, who had been hiding in the bathroom, charged into the room and leapt onto the coffee table, shouting, “I am Orestes” and quoted several lines from the Greek tragedy they were rehearsing that week.

He was full of enthusiasm about the theater and about his sponsor, whom he had known for years as they both rode at the Ox Ridge Hunt Club in Darien, Connecticut. She had always been interested in his riding career, and she was an icon in the New York theater. How handy for him!

“When she walks into Sardis, heads turn and everyone genuflects,” George told us breathlessly that night.

Not one to mince words, I said to him at the end of the evening, “George, you are no Orestes. You will always be George. You ride so well. Go back to the horses.” Which he did shortly thereafter, and the rest is history. More than anyone else, he has influenced the development

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Judy and son Philip at the Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Horse Show.

Coker Farm hosted the annual event for many years.

of show jumping in this country. Always theatrical, George never abandoned the stage; he simply expanded it to include his own training center and horse-show venues, including Olympic stadiums.

Decades later George and I met again in the old neighborhood when Mayor Bloomberg invited everyone who had anything to do with our show-jumping gold medal team at the Athens Olympics in 2004—even people on the fringes like ourselves—to a reception at Gracie Mansion. With my husband Max, I drove down the FDR Drive, turned off at the familiar 96th Street exit, then continued down York Avenue to East 88th Street, and found a parking place right in front of our old apartment building. A short

walk brought us to the door of the venerable Gracie Mansion.

How strange it was to see so many horsey types in such august surroundings! Everyone “cleaned up well,” as the saying goes. The owners, riders, trainers, and grooms of the mighty four horses were all there along with dozens of fringe folks like ourselves. Only the horses were missing. After the Mayor’s cordial welcome and several other speeches, instead of chatting with friends and colleagues that I see often anyway, I joined a tour of the mansion. The imposing grand rooms with their high ceilings and tall windows, many looking out on the East River, were tastefully furnished with traditional colonial antiques. The formal ambiance was exactly right for the occasion, and just what I expected.

For George the evening represented another milestone in his life. He was as fit and trim as ever; the only difference really was the buzz haircut instead of the tousled curls of his youth. Having trained many Olympic riders over the years and served often as coach when they competed internationally, he finally gave up his own flourishing training business to serve full time as chef d’equipe of our international Olympic show-jumping team. I assured him that the crowds at Sardis might not recognize him, but the genuflecting for him at horse show in-gates worldwide has increased to awesome proportions.

Art by Stephanie Revennaugh

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.

DÉCOR Page 10 Dishes Anthropologie anthropologie.com FASHION Page 14 Marta Morgan martamorgan.it LA Saddlery lasaddlery.com PEOPLE Page 18 Brian Walker Woodside Farm woodsidefarminc.com FAVORITES Page 20 Chronicles of Coker: Some Favorite Days

by Judy Richter amazon.com

GIVING BACK Page 22 People4Ponies people4ponies.uk TRAVEL Page 24 Horseback Safari Tswalu Kandahar tswalu.com STYLE Father’s Day Gifts Page 30 GTO London gtolondon.com B&O Play beoplay.com Kalamazoo Grills kalamazoogourmet.com Shinola shinola.com David Sloan roseviewdressage.com

WEDDINGS Page 1/Cover Bandy Canyon Escondido, CA bandycanyon.com Morven Park Leesburg, VA MorvenPark.org Page 32 Jennifer Rios Weddings jenriosweddings.com Tulip Floral and Goods ilovetulip.com Sheila Camp Motley Event Design sheilacampmotley.com Kimberly+Travis Venue: Howell Family Farms, Arlington, TX howellfamilyfarms.com Photography: Jillian Zamora Photography jillianzamora.com Planning/Design: Jen Rios Weddings jenriosweddings.com Floral Design: The Southern Table

southerntabledesign.com Desserts: Layered Bakeshop layeredbakeshop.co Paper: Chips+Salsa Design Studio chipsandsalsadesigns.com Roxane+Bobby Venue: International Polo Club, Wellington, FL internationalpoloclub.com Dress: Badgley Mischka Carolyn+Grant Sheila Camp Motley Event Design sheilacampmotley.com Jessica Lorren Photography jessicalorren.zenfolio.com Florida Alison+Brian Venue: Providence Hill Farm, Jackson, MS providencehillfarm.com Photography: Adam+Alli Photography adamplusalli.com Flowers/Styling: Tulip Floral ilovetulip.com

Wedding Coordinator: Cambi Burnham Cakes: The Cake Diva facebook.com/thecakediva Caterer: Pretty Presentations Catering and Event Rentals, prettypresentationscatering. com Stationary: Thimble Press thimblepress.com Lily+Matthew Venue: Mission Point, Mackinac Island, MI missionpoint.com Photography: Maggie Chambers and Kate Dupre TRAVEL Page 46 Luggage Eddie Harrop eddieharrop.com Ralph Lauren ralphlauren.com Rimowa rimowa.com Saddleback saddlebackleather.com

This is Ground thisisground.com TUMI tumi.com LE SAUT HERMÈS Page 60 Hermès hermes.com GALLERY Page 80 The French Horse National Sporting Museum and Library nationalsporting.org DESIGN Page 88 Holly Matt Pegasus Design Group pegasusdesigngroup.com

DINING Page 97 Oli’s Fashion Cuisine Wellington, FL olisfashioncuisine.com

®

AMERICA’S FINEST EQUESTRIAN REAL ESTATE LUXEQUESTRIAN.COM ® JUNE /JULY | 2 0 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 1 0 5

EQ B A R N D O G S

A BEAUTIFUL FRIENDSHIP The WORLD’S SMARTEST HORSE and his canine pal, Monk.

COURTESY OF TENNESSEE STATE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES

BY JILL NOVOTNY

Top, center, Dr. William Key with Jim; bottom, center, Monk.

A

few miles down the Old Tullahoma Highway from the center of Shelbyville, Tennessee, stands a memorial. A large white sign atop a stone grave shows a horse with a piece of chalk in his mouth, standing in front of a blackboad that reads “Jim” in cursive. Below, three photos labeled “Jim’s Dear Friends” depict his trainer, William; his promoter, Albert; and a small dog named Monk.

This funky road-trip stop is not the most popular—many locals are not even aware of it. It’s a memorial for a famous performing horse named Jim that traveled the country in the late 1800s with his owner and trainer, a former slave named William Key. A self-trained veterinarian and patent medicine salesman, Key bred an Arabian with a Thoroughbred in the hopes of creating a faster racehorse.

But when the Beautiful Jim Key (his full name) was born in 1889, he was a disappointing, wobbly colt with spindly legs.

Nonetheless, Jim impressed his owner with clever skills and inventive tricks.

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According to Key, Jim began by stealing apples and closing the drawers afterwards to avoid being caught. Next, he let himself out of his paddock and made his way into the house with the Key family.

Key saw Jim’s potential and began to teach him tricks such as counting, reading, writing, and telling time. Of course, with only second-hand accounts of his intelligence, it’s impossible to say just how smart Jim really was, how he performed each trick, and which of them were embellished or exaggerated by dazzled audiences. His success, on the other hand, is incontestable.

A promoter, Albert R. Rogers, saw Jim perform and offered Key a large sum of money for the horse. Key declined, but the two collaborated to produce a nationwide tour, the Jim Key Medicine Show, that lasted nine years and became

one of the most popular shows of the time. Thousands of people came to see the Beautiful Jim Key and Dr. William Key showcase their extraordinary talents in the country’s best venues, including Madison Square Garden. At the time, President McKinley proclaimed, “It is the most astonishing and entertaining exhibition I have ever witnessed.”

Along their tour, the team was joined by a stray dog, whom they named Monk.

He and Jim became inseparable, the small dog standing guard over his equine friend.

Reporters and photographers shared anecdotes of the small dog growling to keep them away until he could hop up next to Jim to be photographed with him. Monk joined in on many of the tricks and many more photographs, staying with Jim until the horse’s death in 1912.

Key’s gentle training methods promoted a growing humane movement in the country, especially for children, who lined up to sign Key’s pledge of kindness to animals.

Though Monk and Jim may not be as famous as they once were, their message of inter-species friendship and compassion left its mark on the country for the century to follow.

Hermès Allegro jumping saddle flat seat

SUPER SOX, LILLIE KEENAN AND THEIR HERMÈS ALLEGRO SADDLE, THREE MAKE A PAIR