Equestrian Living - March/April 2022 by Equestrian Living

EQUESTRIAN LIVING

EQ U E S TR I A N LIV I N G

EQLiving.com

M A RCH /APR I L 2022

ARE YOU RE ADY?

TRAVEL ALSO: BAYLEE McKEEVER , GROWING UP WITH McLAIN WARD

MARCH/APRIL 2022 DISPLAY UNTIL MAY 8, 2022

Your barn is the setting of your horse’s story. We ensure every ride, every bath, every moment is a chapter to remember.

Built Right or Not at All 717.687.0292 | BandDBuilders.com

EQ I N S I D E

FEATURES M A RCH | A P RI L 2 0 2 2

ROOTED IN PENNSYLVANIA HORSE COUNTRY

34 Famed equestrians Michael and Dorothy “D.D.” Matz relish time at their Pennsylvania home and take advantage of the surfeit of horse-sport activities in the pastoral Chester County landscape.

AN IOWA ROUND BARN

PHOTO MARIA ERRICO

Photographer Dave Austin showcases the Plagmann Round Barn, the largest of its kind in Iowa. Exquisitely detailed photographs and architectural schematics emphasize the scale and elaborate construction of the three-story 1912 structure.

GROWING UP WITH McLAIN

48 The McKeever and the Ward families enjoy a highly successful professional connection and friendship that began decades ago and has led to multi-Olympic awards aboard top-performance and perfectly conditioned horses. Baylee McKeever, a rising-star equestrian, has trained with her father and McLain.

TRAVEL: SERENITY OR ADVENTURE, IT’S TIME TO GET AWAY

56 EQLiving’s ninth annual travel feature presents an enticing mix of locations that offer invigorating experiences that include extended rides through Norwegian island landscapes, having a go at polo at an Argentinian estancia, or skiing the Swiss Alps. For a serene escape, a respite at a luxurious countryside cottage in Connecticut may be just the ticket.

THE STORYTELLING SCULPTURES OF TYREL JOHNSON

TRAVEL: SERENITY OR ADVENTURE, IT’S TIME TO GET AWAY

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74 Tyrel Johnson, whose graceful sculptures often incorporate animals, beautifully utilizes unconventional pairings rendered in bronze and wood to elicit a new experience for the viewer.

Legendary Heritage.

Horse Approved.

timberlyne.com

EQ I N S I D E

DEPARTMENTS M A RCH | A P RI L 2 0 2 2

DESIGN

Hermès previews its vibrant Spring-Summer 2022 Objects Collection with imagination and whimsy. FAVORITES

Champion dressage rider Arlene “Tuny” Page shares some of her favorites, from fashion sources, to hotels and competition venues.

Very Peri, Pantone’s color of the year 2022, encourages creativity and carefree confidence.

Read an excerpt from Chad Oldfather’s A Man Walks Into a Barn: Navigating Fatherhood in the Flawed and Fascinating World of Horses.

Equestrian Catherine Brock designed Prospeqs, an app to help riders and trainers easily access their riding videos. FASHION

Modern approaches to classic waxed-cotton apparel.

SCIENCE

Juliana Chapman, the founder of Tech Equestrian, is dedicated to informing modern-day equestrians about the latest digital products, apps, and services for the horse world.

FOOD + DRINK

Chef Rohan Fernando, committed to creating food for body and soul, serves his Vegan Caviar at Ayurveda Pavilions in Sri Lanka. PEOPLE

Sisters Catherine and Lauren Tyree combine their two perspectives for the good of the horse.

ON THE COVER

IN EACH ISSUE Shot on location at NIHI Sumba hotel in Sumba, Indonesia, by photographer Nathan Edwards. For information about the horses at NIHI Sumba, see page 62.

EDITOR’S NOTE 8 Welcome to Equestrian Living. RESOURCES

Look for CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 to find the products and services in this issue. BARN DOGS 98 Meet Jaxx and Goat, two rescue dogs adopted by John Bragg and Troy Christiansen who are living the good life in California.

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Irish show jumper Michael Duffy answers questions about competing and maximizing a horse’s performance. TRAVEL

EQ editors share some of their favorite carry-on travel essentials.

Ten practical tips for traveling with your dog. EQUESTRIAN PROPERTIES

Keep them out! Control unwanted pests in and around your barn.

CU STO M H A N D K NOT T ED R U G S - T HE U LT IM AT E LUXU RY

B A L I , S L AT E

N E W M O O N R UG S .CO M

8 0 0. 8 63 .0 4 4 2

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

PHOTO GEORGE KAMPER

WELCOME

than internationally, and seven percent say it ‘doesn’t matter,’ I’ll go anywhere.’” To our delight, the survey indicated that destinations with a heavy outdoor activity focus have significant appeal. It’s a safe bet that with horses integrated into the itinerary of many of our Travel feature’s locations, equestrian sojourners will be outside and enjoying the best of Mother Nature. For adventurers willing to travel afar, a trip to Indonesia, to ride horses along the beaches of the NIHI Sumba resort, or to traverse the Swiss Alps may offer ’ve been ambivalent about travelan idyllic escape. For those preferring a ing—particularly flying—since stateside getaway with horses at the ready, the beginning of the pandemic. The rampant spread of COVID and Michigan’s car-free Mackinac Island with fear of getting caught in the cross- over 500 horses or a Vermont mountain inn with a modern-luxe vibe may have fire of an onboard skirmish only a greater appeal. If in search of a blissful added to my apprehension. However, my fears have been somewhat indulgence, you’ll want to read editor-atlarge Rebecca Baldridge’s account of her assuaged by the plummeting numbers stay at Connecticut’s Winvian Farm in her of new cases, effective vaccinations, and Personal Travel Diary. early hints of spring. A few unexpected Beyond the travel-destination theme, warm days in February have lured me from hibernation and enticed me with the we visited Lee and Erica McKeever and desire to take flight. Where-to is the ulti- their daughter Baylee, an on-the-rise show jumper, at McLain Ward’s famous Castle mate question. Hill Farm. The McKeever and Ward The convergence of the declining families have a unique and rich history spread of COVID-19 variants and high vaccination rates has significantly boosted together in the equestrian industry, and writer Emily Holowczak has captured this the number of Americans embarking on successful “barn family” in an engaging vacations. “At the same time, Americans light. are still discerning when it comes to Even closer to home, we seized the their vacation destination,” according to opportunity to visit famed equestrians a SkiDriven.com survey. “Seventy-nine percent prefer to travel domestically rather D.D. and Michael Matz at their Chester

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County, Pennsylvania, home. In addition to the family’s equestrian pursuits, D.D.’s penchant for gardening and landscape design was on vivid display throughout the property. (See Equestrian Living magazine’s 2021 visit to the Matzes’ Wellington, Florida, home: eqliving.com/ may-june-2021). To supplement our travel theme, we’ve included helpful travel tips and products in our department’s pages to enhance comfort and safety—for you and your four-legged pets. And in the creative realm, a gallery of Tyrel Johnson’s sculptures and Dave Austin’s photos of an Iowa round barn add striking visual statements to the issue. As I review the final pages, I’m reminded how much I enjoy the experiential and enriching aspects of travel. And, as someone who’s a tad too familiar with stress, I appreciate the benefits of disconnecting and recharging for a bit of time. Convinced that I’m ready to take flight, it’s time to revisit my ultimate question: where-to?

EQ D E S I G N

HERMÈS OBJECTS 2022 1.

previews its Spring-Summer 2022 OBJECTS COLLECTION with imaginative and whimsical wearables, accessories, and home décor items. HERMÈS

8. 6. 1. Necklace in Swift calfskin and palladium-finish metal. 2. Apple Watch Hermès series 7 with double tour band in Barénia calfskin. 3. The imaginary saddle scarf 90 in silk twill. 4. Toupet bag in horsehair and Swift calkskin. 5. Volt’H Mini power bank in Swift calfskin. 6. Atrium Jaguar in the Mexican garden tray in handpainted lacquered wood. 7. Sialk centerpiece in enameled copper. 8. Sabot bag in Butler calfskin and Hunter cowhide. 9. Thalassa beach bag in embroidered cotton canvas. Prices upon request

CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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EQ M A RC H /A PR I L 202 2

EQ U E S TR I A N EQLiving.com

LIVING

VOLUME 11 NUMBER 2 EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters SENIOR EDITOR Jill B. Novotny PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR George Kamper

neeD A LeG UP?

EDITORS AT LARGE Rebecca Baldridge, Carol Cohen-Hodess, Judy Richter DESIGN MANAGER Mary A. Stroup SOCIAL MEDIA & WEB CONTENT Maggie Carty DIGITAL & CLIENT SERVICES Sydney Ellers EDITORIAL MANAGER Theresa Cardamone EQ SPECIAL EVENTS Jennifer Pearman Lammer UK & LONDON EDITOR Bridget Arsenault CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tori Bilas, Juliana Chapman, Abigail Heutz, Emily Holowczak, Phoebe Oliver PUBLISHER C.W. Medinger PUBLISHING CONSULTANT George Fuller PRINT John Spittle PUBLIC RELATIONS Carrie Wirth, EQmedia.agency NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Boyd Mulholland ADVERTISING SALES General: 929-262-0347, info@eqliving.com Joyce Jones, 954-796-1809, jones@eqliving.com Dick Holcomb, 770-331-7788, dickholc@bellsouth.net Blaire Baron, 215-439-8259, baron@eqliving.com Europe: Rosa Zampini, zampini@eqliving.com

Interiors that enhance the lifestyle of the horseman—that’s what Gracie Street brings to you. No matter where you live, our soughtafter West Palm Beach studio and boutique is right in stride with new ideas for your home, office or stable facility. Call us for a complimentary consultation and discover why our custom designs are widely recognized in the equestrian community worldwide.

EQ LIVING ADVISORY BOARD Bob Cacchione, Connecticut Deborah Deutsch, Beverly Hills, Calif. Melissa Ganzi, Wellington, Fla. Carson Kressley, New York, N.Y. Peter Leone, Lionshare Farm, Bedford, N.Y. Colleen and Tim McQuay, Tioga, Texas Mindy Peters, Los Alamos, Calif. David Sloan, Millbrook, N.Y. Renee Spurge, LA Saddlery, Los Angeles, Calif. Chester Weber, Ocala, Fla. EQUESTRIAN QUARTERLY (EQ) 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 $28.95 | Canada $45.95.

Subscribe on page 97 or online at eqliving.com/subscribe Free Digital Subscription and InnerCircle membership: eqliving.com/ic To purchase past issues or find newsstands offering EQLiving, visit eqliving.com/where-to-buy Subscription management and address changes: Web: eqliving.com/manage-subscription Email: info@eqliving.com Tel: 929-262-0347 Editorial inquiries and letters to the editor: info@eqliving.com or mail to Box One, Brownsville, VT 05037

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10 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022 GS LegUpAd_EQvert.half.indd 2

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EquestrianLivingMagazine

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Favorite fragrance: I never wear perfume, but my favorite fragrance is “stable.”

What books are on your bedside table: Any of Lee Child’s books, Erik Larsen, and the latest self-help book thanks to my daughter Charlotte.

N T B RO ARND

KHOR

Another riding discipline you’d love to try: I’d love to be able to ride a hunter really well.

Favorite source for fashion: Equiline for riding.

MY FAVORITES GEORGE KAMPER

Favorite horse: This is like choosing a favorite child; I’d say it’s Wild One. He was challenging as a young horse, but we found our way, and he gave me my first Aachen, World Cup, WEG shortlist, and national championship win. Now, he is giving me the satisfaction of his happy retirement.

Favorite TV show: I love Ted Lasso.

EQUILINE

EQ F A V O R I T E S

Best way to relax: Walking my dogs.

Favorite show/venue: As an American dressage rider, I’d say Gladstone because of its long history. However, there is nothing like competing at Aachen.

ARLENE ‘TUNY’ PAGE Tuny is one of USA’s most successful dressage riders, ranking among the world’s best. She has won numerous grand prix as well as Nation’s Cup medals at Aachen, Rotterdam, Hickstead, and Wellington. Tuny owns and operates Stillpoint Farm in Wellington, Florida.

Favorite getaway escape: Boston’s North Shore because I grew up there, and it feels like home. My husband, Dave, and I both love the Hotel Le Cep in Beaune, France. We are welcomed by the winemakers there and we get to truly relax and enjoy fabulous and unpretentious food and wine! Favorite music on your playlist: Ed Sheeran Sonos channel.

PALM BEACH CA TCH

If you weren’t an equestrian you might have been: A Teacher.

Favorite restaurants: Palm Beach Catch (I love oysters!) and the most incredible dining experience of Guy Savoy in Paris.

VOY GUY SA

Favorite charity: Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding, The Brooke, and Caridad.

BUDDHA-BA

SHERRY

NETHER

LAND

R HOTEL

Favorite hotels: The Sherry Netherland in New York City and The Buddha-Bar Hotel in Paris.

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1 EQ F A S H I O N

The navy biker-inspired Brady jacket by Belstaff is crafted in waxed cotton with a unique blend of waxes to make it water- and windrepellent. $270.

WAXED TO PERFECTION Greet spring showers in modern WAXED APPAREL. 1. The water-resistant Conway two-inone waxed cotton British Millerain coat by Woolrich (in oxide). $385. 2. Dubarry’s navy, water-repellent, waxed Brittas holdall with roomy compartment and multiple pockets. $329. 3. Barbour’s vintage-style waxed fedora (in olive) with Tartan-trimmed outerband. $85. 4. Barbour’s Luss waxed cotton raincoat for multi-season wear in sage, Bordeaux, and sand combo. $460. 5. Barbour’s Thirlmere waxed-cotton shell with boxy silhouette is perfect for layering. $330. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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SETTING THE STANDARD SINCE 1978 Complete design services and fine craftsmanship Custom barns, arenas, garages, and living quarters

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EQ F A V O R I T E S

The sophisticated Diana Pendant Light in Very Peri by Covet House is designed to be functional and versatile.*

VERY PERI

Pantone’s COLOR OF THE YEAR 2022

Covet House’s Begonia Armchair with charming curves is perfect for a modern interior.*

Covet House’s Diana Wall Light in Pantone’s 2022 hue can fit into a variety of spaces, including a kitchen or bedroom.*

Relax and enjoy your espresso in Pantone’s 2022 Cortado Cup. $20.

Pantone’s limitededition notebook in Very Peri, the 2022 color of the year. $14.

Covet House’s Elk Armchair in the color of the year 2022 is crafted in cotton velvet with a curved back. Price on request.

Excelsa’s generous-sized lilac wine goblet boasts the color tone of 2022. $5.50.

Pantone’s color of the year 2022 places the future ahead in a new light. Very Peri (Pantone 17-3938), which brings a novel perspective to the blue family with added violet-red undertones, presents a carefree confidence, opening us up to new possibilities as we re-imagine our post-isolation time. “Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages creativity and imaginative expressions,” notes Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

The Priority Coast beach cruiser by Priority Bicycles can handle salt, sand, and water, while celebrating Pantone’s color of the year 2022. $599. 14 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

Cariuma joins Pantone in the color of new vision with this Very Peri and ivory-contrast canvas sneaker. $89.

* Price upon request.

Make a color of the year statement with Covet House’s Naj dining chair in velvet with nickeled-nail accents.*

CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

EQ S C I E N C E

TECHNO FASHION What’s trending in HORSE TECH.

echnology and horses are two words that you normally don’t see together. However, that is about to change based on advancements in technology that I’ve been covering for more than three years now called horse tech. Yes, it is a “thing” and it’s not only a trend, but it is the future of how we will manage, compete, buy and sell, and care for horses. As the founder of the Tech Equestrian, a technology and equestrian lifestyle blog, my goal has always been to inform the modern-day rider and horse enthusiast of the latest digital products, apps, services, wearables, and more for the horse world. PA D D O C K PL AYE R S

As in the consumer world, there are many categories of products and services in horse tech. I call them “paddock players” to keep with the horse theme and highlight the fact that horses are herd animals, which plays into the idea of “what’s trending” that drives social media. People flock to what’s new, what’s next. As of this writing, I have interviewed close to 50 horse-tech vendors from all over the world and as far away as Australia. I’ve created more than 14 categories, which are always evolving to help horse people find what they are looking for or may not know is out there. It is a very exciting time to learn more about how horse tech can make your life easier, rewarding and most important, keep your horse(s) happy and healthy.

BY JULIANA CHAPMAN

TOP TRENDS

W HAT IS DRIV ING HORSE T ECH ADOP TION?

Consistency and repetition with large animals is extremely important and change can open the door to scary things (figuratively and literally). In addition, trainers are the primary decision-makers when it comes to trying something new and many aren’t as comfortable with technology as their students are. The global pandemic has been a big driver of engaging equestrians to explore technology. When many people couldn’t get to the barn to see or ride their horses they relied on text messages, videos, and apps to stay informed, plus they started using more of the traditional barn management apps to track nutrition, vet visits, training, and more. In addition, a larger number of students who are becoming trainers are digital natives, a term that describes a person who has grown up using technology (think Millennials, Gen Z and Gen Alpha). This new wave of adopters is tech savvy and expects their day-to-day needs to be fulfilled instantly in our text-message, always-on world.

The Tech Equestrian’s traffic increased 60 percent last year in site visits, which is a key indicator that equestrians are seeking to learn more about ways to leverage technology. Some of the most popular posts centered on training apps and solutions that are available now to provide an alternative to in-person training and open the door to learning from world-famous trainers and competitors like never before. Many of the solution providers also focus on the experience, and given how common it is to have a cell phone in your pocket while you are riding, why not listen to a top trainer you wouldn’t normally have access to. Just tap play, listen, and learn while riding. Another hot category is buying/selling apps that use the power of algorithms to filter and search horses and ponies based on your budget, location, level, and needs. This cuts down on all the time wasted searching online, waiting for email updates, and trying to figure out where a horse is located. The ability to talk, tweet, and text also applies in the equine world in the form of community apps, designed to bring together the wide scope of horse ownership questions and conversation into a single destination url. Lastly, I’m starting to see changes on the horizon for more efficient horse show communication and management of the daily schedule through digital horse show solutions. Not only does it help keep riders, owners, grooms, and trainers informed of classes, it helps keep venues safe in case of emergencies. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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EQ F O O D + D R I N K

FUEL FOR BODY AND MIND F L AVO

LOC

Chef Rohan Fernando’s VEGAN CAVIAR at AYURVEDA PAVILIONS in Sri Lanka combines his signature blend of appetizing and healing foods. Y

VEGAN CAVIAR INGREDIENTS 200 ml fresh carrot juice 2 teaspoons vinegar 2 tablespoons agar agar powder 1-inch long yakinori Salt to taste Bowl of cold olive oil PREPARATION Heat the fresh carrot juice in a pan, add yakinori, vinegar, and salt. Stir well. Strain the mixture and add the agar agar. Allow the mixture to set slightly. Take the bowl of cold olive oil and drop the mixture into the oil using a piping bag to form small drops. When the “caviar” is settled in the olive oil, strain the oil, and remove it. Decorate as you wish.

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Just minutes from Columbo airport, AYURVEDA PAVILIONS offers a perfect start to a Sri Lankan adventure. Designed around an ancient healing science that dates back millennia, the resort is an enchanting combination of tradition and modernity. Amidst lush gardens and rustic courtyards, the atmosphere of serenity provides a sense of comforting luxury, shared with tales and whispers of historic knowledge that inspires the rejuvenation of your mind, body, and soul. The resort’s Immunity Booster package includes a new menu developed by Chef Rohan Fernando, which innovatively combines healthy foods to build the perfect fuel for your body and mind. The package also includes a consultation by an Ayurvedic physician, two hours per day of traditional Ayuverdic treatments, a daily yoga session, as well as three immuneboosting traditional meals, which include ingredients such as garlic, which contains a sulfur compound called allicin, which is said to have immunestimulating properties and pomegranate, with vitamin C and E which are known to help the immune system. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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EQ F A V O R I T E S

NOT THE RIGHT SORT OF HORSE OK

An excerpt from A MAN WALKS INTO A BARN by CHAD OLDFATHER.

TH N S EE ER W V O C

ne of the blessings of equestrian life is that it’s more like distance running than track and field when it comes to knowing whether you’ve reached your peak. I ran my last 800-meter race as a senior in high school, toward the end of a six-month period in which I also played my last football game, wrestled my last match, and played my last baseball game. I walked away from each of those knowing I was done. The closest I’ve come to competing in the same way since is by being a part of several slow-pitch softball teams. Future athletic competition for me, if there was to be any, would have to come in some other way. It’s not the same in the equestrian world. It’s not unusual to have Olympians in their fifties, and I know riders in their sixties who regularly compete successfully against riders less than half their age. A rider’s peak is not so clearly confined to the early part of life, and the fact that the sport depends so much on an accumulated sense of feel rather than simply pure physical ability makes it likely that any given rider’s best years come well into adulthood, at least if she remains dedicated to the sport.

This excerpt from A Man Walks Into a Barn by Chad Oldfather is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books.

Ada’s best rides, then, remain in the future. But for Ada and Cash as a team the best rides may have come at their third show on the “A”-circuit. It was week one of a show called Spring Spectacular, held at the Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne, Illinois. Lamplight is a truly beautiful facility, short on parking but not on trees. Most everything takes place against a nice backdrop, and the layout of the facility makes sense. At least once you get to know it. The show did not start off well. We had not been to Lamplight before and had no feel for the grounds. Due to a miscommunication, we were still at the barn when Ada’s first class was starting. This presented two immediate problems. The first was that the barn, which in reality was a large tent with temporary stabling, was about as far from the ring as it was possible to be while still being on the showgrounds. The second was that we had no idea where the ring was. Our instructions were to follow a path until it ended. That, we were assured, would lead us straight to the ring. I jogged alongside as Ada and Cash trotted. We followed the path. But what nobody had accounted for was that there was a fork in the path. The left fork traveled alongside the Grand Prix ring. The right fork looked, or at least it Continued on page 88

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The Art of Horsemanship

World-class equestrian center Exceptional equestrian studies program National championship team Your future is bright at SCAD.

To learn more about SCAD equestrian or explore other award-winning programs, visit scad.edu or email admission@scad.edu.

PHOTO: OLIVIA AIRHART

EQ P E O P L E

Above: Catherine and Lauren Tyree; Opposite: Catherine and BEC Lorenzo, Lauren and Koultan de Torres. 20 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

EQ P E O P L E PHOTO: EMMA MILLER

very equestrian business benefits from multiple perspectives, but in the case of Catherine and Lauren Tyree of Wellington, Florida, these two perspectives grew up side by side, then forged their own paths, just to come back together again. While their outlook should be similar considering the two grew up attached at the hip, their post-junior riding careers have been quite different, allowing their viewpoint to change due to the outside influences that have surrounded them. Catherine, the older of the two sisters, was a top pony, junior hunter, and equitation rider before she began her career as an accomplished show jumper at an early age. Lauren’s junior career was equally impressive; however, she took a seven-year break from riding to attend college and see what life would offer her outside of the equestrian world before inevitably returning to the sport. With two mindsets—one completely invested in all things equestrian business, training, and riding, and one influenced by the outside world and all it has to teach—the Tyree sisters are back together again, pouring their efforts into developing young horses and advancing their riding careers, both individually and as a team.

PHOTO: GEORGIE HAMMOND

TYREE SISTERS Two perspectives combined for the good of the horse. BY TORI BILAS PHELPS MEDIA GROUP

The two sisters learned to master the sport under the tutelage of Missy Clark and John Brennan at North Run, who still help advise them in their own businesses. Now that Catherine has advanced her career and begun to take on students in addition to training horses, she looks back at what Missy and John taught her over the years, in combination with her own experiences, to inform how she instructs the next generation. Her first student, in a way, was her sister. While Lauren’s strong foundation and emphasis on basics also come from her time at North Run, Vasco Flores,

trainer and owner of Highport Stables in Wellington, has played an integral role in her return to the sport after seven years without consistent riding. With Flores, her mentor Catherine, and other significant influences, Lauren now stresses the importance of absorbing all the knowledge she can and building upon the foundation she created as a junior. The two sisters share an admiration for bringing up young horses and helping them develop to their full potential. Lauren and Catherine both feel a sense of pride when they can succeed with a young horse and watch it flourish rather than acquire mounts that have been polished by other riders. They enjoy growing with the horses they ride, adapting their skills and learning new things while also teaching and producing the next top horses for their string. Perspective can be everything when it comes to differentiating one equestrian venture from another. Everyone in the industry has the same common goal: to master the sport and achieve strong results while demonstrating ultimate horsemanship above all, but the way the Tyree sisters have evolved through their lives—both together and separately— and approach this goal using their two different perspectives truly sets them apart. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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MARTHA W. JOLICOEUR, PA BROKER ASSOCIATE 561 797 8040 www.marthasproperties.com

ER D N U O C TR N T AC

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U T

AERO CLUB · $3,195,000 Expansive Tuscan-inspired Aero Club Home · 4 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms · Private Hangar with Direct Runway Access · Wine Cellar · Pool & Jacuzzi · Billiard Room · Home Theatre · Impact Glass · 3-Car Garage HOME IS WHERE YOUR HORSE IS

THE NEXT MOVE IS YOURS 1111 LINCOLN RD, PH-805, MIAMI BEACH, FL 33139. 305.695.6300 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REAL ESTATE BROKER, PLEASE DISREGARD THIS OFFER. IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO SOLICIT THE OFFERINGS OF OTHER REAL ESTATE BROKERS. WE COOPERATE WITH THEM FULLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. .

EQ T R A V E L

CARRY-ON MUST-HAVES Our editors share a few ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES to enhance comfort and ease of travel. 3 2

1. Bose Quiet Comfort Headphones. $329. 2. Scout Tan Weekender Bag by Paravel. $295. 3. Athleta Daily Knit Scarf in shasta purple. $58. 4. Weleda Skin Food Moisturizer. $18.99. 5. REI Hydro Flask Water Bottle in pacific. $49.95. 6. Paravel Cabana Passport Case in shandy. $75. 7. Paperage Dotted Bullet Journal. $9.95. 8. Jo Malone Vitamin E Lip Conditioner. $36. 9. High-speed Portable Charger by Anker. $39.99. 10. Infinity Travel Pillow in navy by BCXSY. $39.

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Stepping Out for America’s Horses February 15-April 3, 2022

All horses, even champions of the racetrack and the show ring, are only one unlucky step away from abuse, neglect and slaughter.

PRESENTED BY

Here are just two of the over 100 inspirational horses you can select to help!

Kachina

Thomas

It’s Easy & Fun to Participate >>

You can help ensure Happy Endings for America’s horses by “Stepping Out” as a horse lover and horse protector! Select your favorite from among the over 100 horses representing EQUUS Foundation Guardian charities nationwide to participate this year!

equusfoundation.org/steppingout

EQ T R A V E L

TRAVELING WITH YOUR DOG 1. Visit the vet before you go Before you think about heading out together, take your pup to the vet to ensure he’s up to date with vaccines and healthy enough to travel. Ask your vet for anything your dog might need in order to have a safe and healthy trip.

JOSH RAKOWER

AUGUSTINA GABES

Here are TEN TIPS for bringing your best friend along.

2. Pack up

3. Choose a crate A crate is an excellent choice for many kinds of travel with your dog and is required for air travel. Make sure the crate you choose has plenty of room for your dog to stand up, turn around, and get cozy. It should be sturdy, leak-proof, and ventilated. If your dog will be in the cargo hold, be sure the crate is labeled clearly.

KARSTEN WINEGEART

EGOR GORDEEV

When you’ve finished packing up your suitcase, don’t forget to pack Fido’s as well. Make sure you have plenty of his regular food, any medications, and bottled water for the trip. Bring your dog’s license and health papers along.

5. Plenty of potty breaks Whenever possible, make sure to stop often, to give your pup a chance to pee and a run-around. Stretching their legs and lapping up some water can be all it takes to keep them quiet and comfortable.

PATRICK HENDRY

GABE MILLER

4. Do your research Traveling safely with your dog is not a given and requires preparation and research. Data is available for the safety and incident records for each airline, and many have different safety regulations that you must adhere to. Read up on their website, or call customer service to ensure your pet and your carrier will meet their standards and that you are comfortable with their protocols. Make sure to book your pet with the airline properly and pay any fees ahead of time, if possible.

7. Keep the barking to a minimum

BETSY STEIN

IGNACIO AMENBAR

6. Find a pet-friendly lodging (and book early!) Search for hotels and vacation spots that don’t just allow but welcome them! Many hotel chains pride themselves on their dog-friendliness, such as Hilton’s Homewood Suites, which just announced that 100% of its hotels in the U.S. and Canada are now dog friendly. They are even offering free access to Mars Petcare, an online service offering hotel guests the opportunity to chat with an expert about pet-related concerns. Some hotels have a mascot dog, in-room dog accessories, or you could find an Airbnb with a backyard and dog house.

Be respectful of your fellow travelers by keeping your pup contained and quiet as much as possible. Many people won’t expect to see a dog at an airport or a hotel, and presenting dogs on their best behavior will ensure their ability to travel this way in the future.

EGOR GORDEEV

JF BROU

8. Head out on the highway Car rides are often a dog’s favorite thing, but give them a chance to get used to the car before taking a long trip. Make sure the vehicle and/or crate is well-ventilated, and avoid carsickness by having your dog travel on an empty stomach when possible. Consider a dog seat belt or dog car seat, and don’t let him stick his head out the window at high speeds, as it can lead to eye injuries. Finally, don’t leave your dog alone in a closed car, especially in the summertime.

9. Dog-friendly destinations When traveling with your dog, it’s important to plan ahead beyond just the travel and lodging. What will you do during the day? Where will you eat? Research parks and trails for your dog to run and activities you can do together. Find a pet-friendly patio at a nearby restaurant, or order in and snuggle up with your pooch instead.

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WILSON M.

JIMMY CONOVER

10. Boats, trains, and buses Before you depart, consider the dog policies for every part of your travel. For example, most Amtrak lines only allow dogs less than 25 pounds. Some cruise ships allow dogs, but policies differ. Regardless of your destination, verify that your dog will be welcome and safe wherever you go before you leave home. If not, consider leaving your dog with someone they know and trust that can give them the care they need while you’re gone.

EQ F A V O R I T E S

GET ORGANIZED The app PROSPEQS, designed by equestrian CATHERINE BROCK, helps riders and trainers easily access their riding videos. BY ABIGAIL HEUTZ

AARON BROCK

volving from her personal passion for equestrian performance improvement and goal setting, ambitious Catherine Brock pulled these two ideas together, developing a unique way to share her knowledge of the equestrian world. To push other riders to elevate their performance, she launched Prospeqs on the app store in 2019. Ms. Brock rode as a junior in California from age 8 to 17 but did not continue with lessons again until well into her adulthood at age 44. The hardships she experienced while getting back to riding at a competitive level after a long break and her love of horses inspired her development of Prospeqs. “Returning to riding after a long time off, I was pretty frustrated with my inconsistent progress as a rider. I read a lot about performance improvement and goal setting. Goal setting is the easy part; the hard part is moving closer to that goal every day. I felt like I needed a system to hold myself accountable for that,” says Brock. That system is now Prospeqs. Her application helps riders and their trainers utilize videos for educational purposes at a moment’s notice. Instead of scrolling through your phone to find rounds or look through WhatsApp, they are all now efficiently and conveniently housed in Prospeqs. The app fosters greater personal productivity as the rider can classify each video, write notes, share notes, and more.

Catherine Brock is all smiles aboard her horse Bullitt after winning the 1.20 Classic and the Low Amateur Owner division at Pine Oak Charity Show in 2021.

Ms. Brock’s app reflects her motivation to push herself to her full potential, finding a way for her and others to easily manage their rides’ photos and videos, removing all the mind-numbing scrolling through camera rolls.

“What was meaningful to me was re-watching my own ride videos. We all have those days when we’re in the zone and can’t miss. Watching those rides later, I could almost relive the high and remind myself of the great things my horse and I can do together. But finding those videos in my camera roll was almost as tedious as taking notes on paper.” Ms. Brock knows that allowing other riders to watch their highlights and proudest moments easily will encourage her and other riders to continue to be passionate about riding through their competitions and lessons. Not only does Prospeqs allow her to re-watch her best moments, but also her worst so she can progress from her mistake by watching her riding videos with or without her trainer. “If I want to find my first 1.2m round at Great Lakes Equestrian Festival (GLEF), for example, I can get to that video in seconds. If I want to re-watch that one time I laid it down in the hunter ring, I can,” Brock said. Prospeqs expresses Brock’s love for her horse with lively videos of their cute pictures. She includes this because it is all a part of her equestrian experience that inspired the app’s development. Wishing she had documented her junior years riding, Catherine is more than excited about launching her app worldwide so other riders can keep track of their experiences and share them with the equestrian community. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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MATT SELL S.COM New Listing

GR AND PRIX FIELD & COVERED ARENA

WELLINGTON, FLORIDA Elegantly appointed home & stable, perfectly situated on 8.85 beautifully manicured acres & just minutes to the WEF, Global & IPC competition venues. Ideal for any discipline with Grand Prix field, covered arena with underground ebb & flow watering system, viewing platform, plus a workout room and additional garage storage. The property also boasts an outdoor arena, 6 horse euro-walker & round pen. The private 28 stall stable offers 2 mirror image wings, 8 wash stalls, 2 tack rooms, 2 feed rooms, 2 laundry rooms, 2 kitchens, 2 bathrooms & 2 storage rooms. The 4-bedroom residence with office offers an open concept great-room with center-island kitchen, professional gas range, quartz counters, stunning glass enclosed wine cellar & beautiful wood floors throughout. Offered at $15,500,000

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MATT SELL S.COM New Listing

EUROPEAN FLAIR IN WELLINGTON

WELLINGTON, FLORIDA This tranquil 10 acre estate has a precious ambiance not seen in Wellington before. If you’ve been searching for a canvas to create that extra-ordinary equestrian compound like no other; the character, charm and European flair of this home will tickle your fancy! The main house is an entertainer’s dream and boasts everyday & catering kitchens, family & formal entertaining rooms, stunning pool and courtyard gardens. The attached 2Br/2Bth apartment with elevator is perfect for guests. The active family members will enjoy the home gym, tennis court, 7.5 car garage and 4 stall barn. If your dream is to design your own equestrian facilities, here is your chance. Offered at $7,300,000

EQ P E O P L E

SP RINGTIME

PHOTOS: MEGAN MASKELL

With Michael Duffy

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EQ P E O P L E

THE IRISH SHOW JUMPER CHATS WITH EQ LIVING

ichael Paul Duffy is a 27-year-old Irish show jumper. Amongst his many achievements is the title for the youngest Irish Senior National Show Jumping Champion, winner of puissance at Horse of The Year Show 2021, and last year he was chosen for the Irish Olympic team. And of course, he has also jumped alongside Jessica Springsteen and Jennifer Gates in the Global Champions Tour. He started his career in Galway, Ireland, under the training and guidance of his father Paul Duffy, international course builder and former international show jumper and then went on to ride horses for Olympic Bronze Medalist Cian O’Connor while on UAE Tour before moving to West Sussex to ride alongside Irish rider Shane Breen. How do you bring your horses back into work after winter?

My horses don’t really have off for the winter, aside from some time off over Christmas. They are always doing something. Like any athlete they need to be kept in work, but during the UK winter months we mix it up with hacking and pole work. For show prep I tend to do loads of grid work – raised poles and variation.

What are your main tips for riders gearing up for the 2022 show jumping season? Do you start with local shows and build up?

Basically, it depends on your horse; Jeff and Zilton will go straight to international competition, whereas my younger horses will start local. I like to have 12-, 6- and 3-month plans, starting with the 12-month goal and working back. This year it is the World Games with Zilton. In terms of younger horses, some come a lot sooner and then don’t last so long and others are slow burners. You have to listen to the horse and they will tell you when they are ready. It’s the feeling you get off them. The smaller horses tend to develop more quickly and mature in their growth and come a bit faster. Do your horses have turn out?

They each go out daily from April to October, and they will be out for an hour minimum, as it’s good for their heads. I don’t tend to use big paddocks with lots of horses, as you risk injury, but it’s important for them mentally to get out. Which is your best ride at the present and why?

What horse do you have most hopes for in the future?

Two of my young horses are really exciting. Pablo val het genisteinee and Golden Lynx, 6- and 7-year-olds. Father and Martin Flesk own Pablo and I own Golden Lynx. Congratulations on joining the Global Champions League Tour again!

It’s great to be back. We have a really strong team this year, and we all know each other very well so there’s a dynamic to look forward to. The venues are always amazing and there’s no doubt with the Global Champions League and Tour you can always expect a five-star experience topped with some of the best competition that the sport has to offer. Lastly do you train much in the U.S. and can we expect to see you here training with any owners this year?

I ride a few horses for Monica McCourt’s Rushymarsh Farm. I have always had a strong tie and competed there quite a bit and love competing in the U.S. My favorite is probably the Florida circuit last season and I can’t wait to get back out there. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

Zilton, who is owned by HMF Equestrian, because he’s an 11-year-old superstar and ready to become famous. M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 3 3

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Equestrians D.D. AND MICHAEL MATZ relish time at their 1870s house surrounded by the Chester County landscape.

he home of

Dorothy “D.D.” and Michael Matz lies at the end of an allée. Rather than discovering an imposing formal home at the end of the tree-lined driveway, a 150-year-old stone house with a leafygreen courtyard beckons visitors into the intimate entrance. Situated in the heart of Chester County, Pennsylvania, horse country, roughly one hour from Philadelphia, the location couldn’t be more idyllic for the equestrian-centric lives of D.D., Michael, and their five children. Michael’s accomplishments in the show-jumping and Thoroughbred arenas are legendary. He is a three-time Olympian, a multi-gold medalist at BY STEPHANIE PETERS

the Pan American Games, has earned individual

MAJOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA ERRICO

gold at the 1981 FEI World Cup Finals, and rode to countless other show-jumping awards. As a Thoroughbred trainer, he teamed with the famed Continued on page 39

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PHOTOS THIS PAGE STEPHANIE PETERS

This page, above: Michael and D.D. in the paddock with Cashew CR; the rear view of the circa 1870s house. Opposite, clockwise from upper left: One of many gardens on the manicured property; the pool with wideopen vistas; detailed beds set off the tranquil pool area; an imaginative treehouse is the setting for summer gatherings.

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ROBERT HANSEN

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This page, clockwise from upper left: Meditation room: Herds of Santa Gertrudis cattle graze The peaceful space in the pastures; a bronze issculpture two fighting Murray’sofsanctuary. At right, peacocks by Rikki Morley Saunders; vast Sarah’s landscape the in progress. landscape; colorful gardens frame the 13-stall barn. Opposite, top to bottom: Vibrant plantings add a welcoming tone to the yellow barn just steps away from the house; flower beds next to the tack room with guest cottage in the background; countless ribbons frame a tack room window.

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Continued from page 35

Barbaro to win the 132nd Kentucky Derby, and a few years later, won the Belmont Stakes with Union Rags. A long-time show jumper of great success, D.D. comes from a family who produced Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Triple Crown winners. All their children have ridden competitively or for pleasure at some point in their lives. Education and work experiences outside of the horse world are encouraged, but it’s OK if they want to return to horse sport at the end of those experiences. With thousands of surrounding Brandywine Conservancy acres to traverse on horseback and the century-old Cheshire Hunt within a short hack from their home, it allows a variety of planned or spontaneous equestrian pursuits. “I hunted a lot with [son] Alex and [daughter] Lucy when they were younger,” D.D. says, “Then I was busy keeping their horses fit when they were off Masterful Matz in school. Last year I finally got myself a horse, and I’m hunting again and having a lot of fun. “This property was originally part of King Ranch of Texas, and when King Ranch sold it, the Brandywine See Equestrian Living magazine’s 2021 visit Conservancy put together to the Matz’s Wellington, Florida, home. eqliving.com/may-june-2021 a partnership that bought it all and immediately put easements on all the property,” explains D.D. “Some people in the partnership wanted particular sections, and others had land that they wanted to expand. The Brandywine Conservancy’s main preserve, the Laurels Preserve (in Chester County), is one of the most extraordinarily beautiful preserves anywhere,” she adds. “I really love being in this countryside. When the pandemic hit, and we were in Florida, I was anxious to get back up here just because you could get out. I could go walking or riding with people, and you didn’t feel so closed off, “notes D.D. “You could get on your horse, meet somebody, and you didn’t have to go into their barn.” BY EMILY HOLOWCZAK PHOTO: ALDEN CORRIGAN

At home with D.D. and MICHAEL MATZ

S THE ONLY show-jumping medalist to train a Kentucky Derby winner, Michael Matz’s talent with horses has reached far and wide.

After competing at three Olympic games in 1976, 1992, and a silver-medal-winning performance in 1996, where he carried the flag for the U.S. team, Michael shifted gears to lend

BACKGROUND ART: Many of the walls of the Matz’s home are painted with murals of Florida wildlife created by a local artist.

his training skills to a whole new genre: horseracing. Michael discovered horses at the age of 16 when he worked cutting grass for his neighbors, an older couple. The man had a horse and was going away for a weekend, so he asked Michael if he could exercise his horse. “As a 16-year-old boy, he said, ‘of course I can!’ He had no idea what he was doing. As you can imagine, the horse ends up flat out galloping back to the barn,” Michael’s wife D.D., whom he met through the horse industry, chuckles, “practically Continued on page 74

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DESIGNING THE LANDSCAPE

The entrance of the Matzes’ home has an intimate, tucked-intothe-environment feel, despite being surrounded by wide-open vistas that direct the eye across an expanse of paddocks, grass pastures dotted with hay bales, and an undulating terrain that gently crests to meet a thicket of trees. D.D. has always been interested in art, and her creative skills are in clear view throughout the 250-acre property. “These gardens have had a lot of iterations because I used to do a lot of the gardening myself,” D.D. says. “When I was traveling, I would Continued on page 42

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STEPHANIE PETERS

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This spread from upper left: Two generous sitting areas subtly mirror one another; the dining room with a soothing palette of greens and blues. D.D. with Ivy, one of the family’s two Labrador retrievers. The lightflooded kitchen area that D.D. added to the house.

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This page: The home’s colorful entrance foyer. Opposite: A mix of mementos, awards, objets d’art, and a child-sized chair.

Continued from page 39

get so frustrated because you had to be here to take care of it.” A HOUSE WITH HISTORY Fortunately, she was introduced to Laurie Hollis, who owns Cotswold Gardens in West Grove, Pennsylvania, and underD.D. has a long history with this home and the surrounding stood D.D.’s aesthetic. “Laurie has a great eye, and she listened community. When she was a child, the house belonged to her to what I said about the look and feel of what I wanted. One of parents, and she lived there until 1967. In 1984, King Ranch the things about this property is the extraordinary expanse and divested the property they held in the area, and, in that year, topography.” Other people had worked on D.D. purchased the 250-acres. the gardens, but some were too structured “I didn‘t live here immediately,” or stiff in style to match D.D.’s vision. explains D.D. “I was still in college, and “I’ve always been very As demands on her time expanded, she the house was rented, so I lived in the cotenlisted Dick Pratt from R-P Nurseries interested in art. It’s a little bit tage at the end of the drive for a while. in nearby Kennett Square to take over the I lived here off and on after college, but of a compulsion for me.” design of the containers, which provide I was riding, and I lived with Michael vibrant bursts of color and texture around in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, before we the house, barn, and guest cottage. married. In 2000, he started training the Several bronze sculptures by accomplished equestrian artist racehorses with more vengeance, and I had just had my third Rikki Morley Saunders are thoughtfully positioned within the child, so we moved here to be closer to the racetrack and to landscape. After purchasing the first two—a buck and a doe— have more room.” Conveniently, Michaels’ Thoroughbred trainD.D. went to the artist’s studio to see what else she was working ing barn is roughly 25 miles away. (A fire destroyed the barn on and ended up buying “Tipping Point,” a life-size bronze of on Christmas eve 2021, but fortunately, the horses had already fighting peacocks. “There’s something so classic about the form, been shipped to Florida, and no humans or horses were harmed.) and it’s so powerful,” D.D. notes Continued on page 86

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The Sloans’ living room in Wellington. M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 4 3

AN IOWA ROUND BARN The 85-foot diameter THREE STORY BARN was built in 1912.

PHOTOS BY DAVID AUSTIN

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Dave Austin is a hobby photographer from central Iowa. He grew up on a family dairy farm in southwestern Wisconsin, and he moved to Iowa to pursue his graduate studies at Iowa State University. Dave has remained in Iowa ever since, working at Corteva Agriscience for the past 25 years. In his spare time, he enjoys driving the back roads to photograph beautiful barns and farmscapes. He currently is the volunteer photographer for the Iowa Barn Foundation (iowabarnfoundation.org), which is committed to preserving the state’s agriculture heritage through barn preservation grants.

The Plagmann Round Barn in Marengo, Iowa, is a 60-foot tall three story barn that is 85-foot in diameter. It was built in 1912 out of clay tile and is considered the largest round barn in Iowa. The first story was for cattle, the second story had 30 horse stalls, and the 110,000-cubic-foot third-story loft held 200 tons of hay. The central silo is 20 feet in diameter and 45 feet tall.

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GROWING UP FAMILY LEGACIES COMBINED Lee and Erica McKeever live on and manage equestrian show-jumping legend McLain Ward’s famous Castle Hill Farm. The McKeever’s daughter, Baylee, has grown up at Castle Hill, riding under the tutelage of McLain.

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WITH McLAIN BY EMILY HOLOWCZAK PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER

Lee, Baylee, and Erica McKeever at the memorial to Ward’s famous horse, Sapphire.

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GEORGE KAMPER

ERICA MCKEEVER

GEORGE KAMPER

ERICA MCKEEVER

JAMES PARKER

ERICA MCKEEVER

1 2

he McKeever and Ward families go way back. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find two equestrian families closer to one another. While many recognize McLain Ward as one of show jumping’s greatest athletes, it’s his support system behind the scenes that really elevates him to the highest level and, in turn, provides the foundation for new talent to emerge. The McKeever/Ward story began several decades ago when Lee McKeever traveled from Ireland to work for McLain’s father, Barney, who was also a show jumper. McLain and Lee were both just teenagers at the time, but it didn’t take long for the two boys to become best friends. As McLain started to make a splash as a show jumper in his own right, Lee remained by his side. Speaking to Reuters in July 2021, McLain shares, “I was 13 turning 14 when Lee came to

1. On a trip with Bradlee and Baylee December 2021. 2. One of Baylee’s first times doing the jumpers at Crosswinds Equestrian, McLain giving her some great advice. 3. Baylee celebrating a good ride. 4. Mclain and Baylee at the Old Salem Farm, Spring Show. McLain had just won the grand prix and leading rider, Baylee, won grand champion children’s pony and best child rider on a pony. 5. McLain and one of his top grooms, Virginie Casterman, helping out with Kalinka. 6. Baylee and Salvatore at Castle Hill. 7. Baylee and her beloved pig Cashmere that her dad bought her after losing a bet.

work for my dad, and we kind of hit it off. He took my ponies to the ring originally, and I said to people, ‘You want to see what marriage looks like after 30 years, look at us.’” And his words held true—Lee has indeed groomed for McLain for over 30 years now and still rides his horses on the flat daily. McLain and Lee have traveled all over the world together, including attendance at numerous Olympic Games. Five-time Olympian McLain has garnered several Olympic honors, including as a member of the gold-medal-winning U.S. teams in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 with his longtime mount, Sapphire. At the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro with HH Azur, he was part of the U.S. team that took home silver. Most recently, McLain competed at the Tokyo 2020 Games, winning another team silver aboard Contagious. All the while, throughout every jet-setting adventure, every jump-off round, every Continued on page 54

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54-acre Castle Hill Farm in Brewster, New York, is home to between 20 and 36 horses.

y father taught me that even if you’re cantering a pole on your own, you need to make sure you’re making the effort to do it well,” said Julia. “You shouldn’t say, ‘Oh, I was a little bit long, but that’s okay.’ You need to fix it. He’s taught me that you have to give equal effort and attention to everything you do. You want to make sure that all elements of your training, and your life, are like that. It’s hard to hold yourself to that level of discipline every time in everything you do, but that’s what it takes to really succeed.” And with her parents’ tutelage and her own drive, dedication, and discipline, Julia truly is succeeding. THE F U N DA ME N TA L S

Julia, 20, was born in Switzerland to Jan and fellow international grand-prix rider Tani Zeidler, a former Canadian Show Jumping Team member. Julia grew up with her mother in Calgary, Canada, just down the road from the show-jumping epicenter

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KIND MEDIA

Continued from page 51

KIND MEDIA

loss, and every victory, Lee has been by McLain’s side. Over the decades, McLain’s admiration of his right-hand groom has remained steadfast. “I think from a purely professional point of view there’s nobody better at what it is that Lee does with the horses than him in the world,” shares McLain in an interview with Horse Network in December 2019. “He’s obviously been recognized on the world stage as being the very best in the care and management of these top sport horses.” Lee even holds a significant title of his own, winning the FEI Best Groom Award in 2018.

hile Lee trains horses with McLain on the road, Lee’s wife Erica manages the Ward’s New York farm, Castle Hill, on the administrative side. Erica, originally from England, began working for McLain’s father around the same time as Lee. Erica shares, “When we first started, I went on the road all the time with McLain’s father, and Lee stayed at home. He kept the young horses going, and he rode all of them. He mainly stayed at home until McLain moved into his dad’s farm here with us, and then Lee started going on the road with him.” It wasn’t long until Lee and Erica found eyes for one another. When the pair first started dating, they 54 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

Baylee McKeever rode McLain Ward’s Salvatore to top honors in the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search presented by The Atlantic Southampton at the 2021 Hampton Classic.

kept their relationship a secret from McLain, operating under the guise of “best friends.” However, Lee and Erica’s relationship soon became known, and the couple eventually married and welcomed their children, Bradlee and Baylee. Meanwhile, McLain married his wife Lauren, and they have two daughters, Lilly and Madison. Through it all, the McKeevers and the Wards have remained as close as ever. Erica shares, “We don’t have a large family anymore, and we don’t have any in the States, so we really made our families here, with the Wards and the people that work for us.” Both families live on-property at Castle Hill, where the kids have grown up riding.

ver the years, McLain’s riding talent has even rubbed off on Lee and Erica’s 17-year-old daughter, Baylee. The McKeever’s youngest began riding at 4 or 5 years old when her older brother Bradlee got tired of riding one of the ponies at Castle Hill. Baylee hopped on every pony she could get her hands on, from jumpers and hunters to equitation mounts. Early on, she competed in Florida in walk/trot and eventually cross-rail classes but originally didn’t want any help from McLain. “One day, he made a cross rail too big, and the pony jumped her off,”

shares Erica, “We all laughed about it. She spent about 10 minutes chasing the pony around the ring and telling McLain that she didn’t want him to help her anymore.” As time went on, Baylee began working on the farm and eventually gave in to McLain’s wisdom. Growing up at Castle Hill has given Baylee a meaningful perspective on how hard one must work to be the best of the best. Baylee now views McLain as one of her biggest inspirations and mainly trains with him in the jumpers. She shares, “He’s always been an inspiration of mine. Overall, everything he does is very inspiring. And training with him—he’s definitely a bit hard on me. But I think he just wants me to be better overall. He’ll call me on the night before a show and after I show to check in on my round with me. But he’s always told me—if I’m ever nervous, just try and focus on what you need to do. Not the result. The result will come.” Baylee has a lucky marble horse passed down to her from McLain. Erica and Lee gave the figurine to McLain before his first Olympics, and McLain gave it to Baylee before her first semi-finals.

Baylee also rides with Samantha Schaefer to focus on equitation and hunters when McLain is traveling. Additionally, she takes lessons from her dad, who helps her simplify McLain’s teachings. Baylee has seen recent success at numerous shows and notably claimed top honors in the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search at the 2021 Hampton Classic aboard McLain’s superstar horse Salvatore. Come fall 2022, Baylee’s riding career will take her to Auburn University in Alabama. “I went to visit Auburn, and I felt like it’s special, like the barn is special and the college is special, and they made a big deal about it.” She says, “They have a really strong team, and the riders on it are very welcoming, and they’re all strong.” Baylee shares many behind-the-scenes snapshots of her life through her Instagram account, @bayleemckeever. Between the McKeevers and the Wards, there is much talent flowing through the doors of Castle Hill Farm. These two families share a rich history of success in the equestrian industry, which can only grow as they continue to support each other side by side—a “barn family” at its finest. INFO | PAGE 94

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NINTH ANNUAL EQ TRAVEL GUIDE

ESCAPES FOR HORSE LOVERS

ARGENTINA See Page 66

COURTESY OF ESTANCIA LOS PROTREROS

S E R E N I T Y O R A DV E N T U R E , SUMBA See Page 62

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COURTESY OF NIHI HOTELS

SOUTH AFRICA See Page 70

COURTESY OF HORIZON HORSEBACK

IT ’ S T I M E TO G E T AWAY MICHIGAN See Page 65

COURTESY OF GRAND HOTEL

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A PERSONAL

TRAVEL DIARY

CONNECTICUT

Westchester and a Relais & Châteaux wo hours north BY REBECCA BALDRIDGE property to boot. If that couldn’t of New York City, in put me to rights, I don’t know what the northwest corner could. of Connecticut, you’ll An impressively gated entrance find some of the most announced that I had reached my scenic countryside in destination. A long, tree-lined allée, New England. Arguably, autumn is undoubtedly much more dramatic in the best time of the year to find yourthe greener seasons, led to a charmself in Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills. ing 1775 colonial manor that houses There’s something about the brilliant the main reception area as well as an russet, red, and yellow foliage that acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant sets the stage for the quintessential and cozy tavern. While the house is New England weekend. Regrettably, a stunning example of colonial archiI tend toward the “day late and dollar tecture, it’s the unique style of guest short” end of the spectrum, so it was accommodation that distinguishes not until a frigid and overcast afterCONNECTICUT’S Winvian from the average luxury resort. Eighteen noon in late November that I found myself headed individually themed cottages dot the 113-acre proptoward Morris, Connecticut, for a stay at the storied WINVIAN erty, spaced among the wooded grounds to ensure Winvian Farm. FARM privacy. I’d decided that nothing less than a short break OFFERS Now, Winvian would have had me at “cottages,” in luxurious environs could restore my will to live, 18 LUXURY but the reality is so much more. Each cottage is and Winvian Farm sounded like just the ticket: COTTAGES. the epitome of wit and whimsy. For the aviation a mere hour’s drive from my Hobbit Hole in 58 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

enthusiast, a 1968 Sikorsky Sea King helicopter stands in the center of a cottage, the rotor blades embedded in the ceiling. While the cockpit remains intact, the passenger/cargo compartment has been transformed into a living area where you can enjoy a cocktail from the wet bar while watching a movie on the flat-screen TV. The largest and most luxurious cottage is the Charter Oak, which is, you guessed it, built around a massive white oak tree. Mullioned windows add charm to the living area, with comfortable armchairs and a leather sofa arranged in front of a cozy fireplace. Steps lead up to a king-sized bed and another fireplace, while the silo boasts a capacious bathroom complete with a jetted soaking tub. There’s a themed cottage to satisfy every taste: the Artist, Inviting courtyards and gardens Beaver Lodge, the Log Cabin, the Library, the Treehouse, the connect the different areas of Secret Society, and the Stable are just a few of the choices the inn.

available. Always ready to take a walk on the wild side, I’d decided to let Reservations surprise me. They must be telepathic because the Connecticut Yankee couldn’t have been more suited to my taste. The décor was decidedly Arthurian with a gray stone floor, a massive four-poster bed, and carved furniture suggestive of a Medieval castle. A pair of overstuffed armchairs were arranged in front of a stone fireplace while a small wood-paneled snug off the main room held a wet bar and a carefully curated library.” The bathroom was a wonder: a massive double sink was sufficiently commodious to contain my vast array of toiletries. A separate room held a large soaking tub as well as a rainforest shower larger than many Manhattan studio apartments. While the cottage begged us to stay, my pal and I were feeling peckish, and the restaurant beckoned. We made ourselves presentable and headed up to the main house for what M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 5 9

A PERSONAL

we expected would be an unforgettable meal. After an aperitif in the glass-enclosed solarium off the bar, we headed upstairs to a table set before a roaring fire. Executive Chef Chris Eddy’s prix-fixe menu offered three brilliantly conceived choices per course. While the entire meal was a marvel, the highlight for me was an appetizer of hand-rolled cavatelli with lamb ragu and parmesan. It literally brought tears to my eyes, and to this day, I find myself recalling it with longing. My pal, Lavell, a gourmand with exceptional knowledge of food and wine, waxed poetic about her grilled octopus, so tender and succulent that it dispelled any lingering guilt about consuming such an intelligent and sentient creature. Braised short ribs swam in a rich red wine sauce. A cheese course offered up Humboldt Fog goat cheese 60 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

TRAVEL DIARY

with jalapeño jam for an inspired combination. Any dining experience, no matter how sublime the food, can be torpedoed by lackluster service. It was our good fortune to enjoy a waiter who was not only attentive and efficient but possessed of considerable personal charm as well. His wine recommendation was the perfect complement to the meal, and he took the time to discuss the subtleties of each dish. Stuffed to the gills, we returned to the cottage to find that a helpful elf had built a fire and turned down the bed. There’s nothing like a good book in front of the fire to relax before bed. After a sound night’s sleep in the four-poster, we returned to the scene of the previous night’s dinner. Breakfast was served in front of yet another fireplace, and fluffy pancakes, fresh orange

juice, and piping hot coffee set the tone for the day. With work calling, the unfortunate Lavell was forced to depart. I, being of a less industrious nature, availed myself of the spa. Housed in a separate building boasting a glassed-in solarium, the environment begs the guest to take a lounge chair and bask peacefully in the sun sipping herbal tea. The list of services is lengthy, offering every manner of massage and facial service imaginable. Shamefully vain and ever hopeful, I opted for the Ultimate Facial, an 80-minute, $465 extravaganza. Snuggled under a heated blanket, I sighed with pleasure as one cream after another was applied. As a masque dried on my face, I was treated to a hand and arm massage. Eighty minutes later, surely having exhausted the supply of creams, ointments, and

unguents, I was pleased to see that my skin was glowing. I looked as fresh and pink as an infant. While relaxing, dining, and enjoying sybaritic spa treatments should be sufficient to keep even the most demanding guest content, Winvian Farm also offers a range of activities to entertain the more energetic. Depending on the season, you can take a ride on one of the bikes that come with each cottage, go for a hike, or try your hand at fly fishing. Painting classes, spirit and wine tastings, axe-throwing, boating, horseback riding, and tubing on the Farmington River are also options. Whatever the season, Winvian Farm offers a luxurious respite from the travails of life. When the daily grind has gotten you down, escape to the Litchfield Hills for an experience that’s sure to restore body and soul. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 6 1

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Guards Polo Academy.

UNIQUE

PHOTOS: NATHAN EDWARDS FOR NIHI HOTELS

TRAVEL

SUMB A , INDONESIA

EQLIVING: Your initial assignment uilt to share the breathtakINTERVIEW BY PHOEBE OLIVER from NIHI was to source horses for ing beauty of an Indonesian beach rides. What made you consider island an hour from Bali, ex-racehorses? NIHI Sumba has been rated SHARPE: It basically came down to size. the best hotel in the world by Most of the horses on Sumba are not suitTravel+Leisure. Sweeping able to carry an average-size Westerner; views of the Indian Ocean surround the villas; their origins are from Mongolian and handmade chocolates top the crisp white linens Arabian ponies traded for Sandalwood on on the pillows and a wave-side, feet-in-thethe islands. When I learned of the popusand restaurant serves up a relaxed, private larity of racing on Sumba and that the dining experience. local ponies were being crossbred with NIHI’s Sandalwood Stables offers rides to the Australian Thoroughbred to produce the beach at sunset or sunrise, as well as outa bigger, faster racehorse, this provided ings through the local villages and other day an avenue to source horses locally. With trips to the surrounding area. But most notably, the pickings quite limited, my criteria the horses can be fitted with bareback pads and really narrowed to horses at least 140 cm in size, MEET THE HORSE led down to the water, where you can sit on them as they as young as possible with the least amount of racWHISPERER wade, splash, and play in the water. Nothing compares ing experience, and generally in good health. OF NIHI SUMBA, to the amazing feeling as the horse beneath you leaves the RATED BEST ground to float briefly before stepping back onto the sand. How long did it take you to train them for beach HOTEL IN THE We spoke with Carol Sharpe, known as the horse rides, and how did you go about doing this? WORLD whisperer of NIHI as a result of her work retraining the Most of the horses responded well to gain trust island’s racehorses for the hotel’s beach and trail rides. M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 6 3

and communication through groundwork. Some would respond in a matter of hours, while for others, it could take days or even longer. It was up to me to work out their language of cooperation. It really helped to attend some Sumba horse races to see how they are handled, where their fear triggers were, and how they might perceive me. The horses are mostly trained to race from the fear-flight response, and I did observe this at the Sumba horse races where, at the start line, the horses are often given some raps over the rump with a plastic bottle to build their adrenalin before the jockey is thrown aboard (bareback) to race. With the jockey clinging to their back in an elevated, competitive state it effectively evokes their prey-animal flight from a predator response. As with most horses (and particularly Sumba racehorses), their greatest reward was to feel relief from fear. I learned to always give them a choice. In training, if I could feel them under fear response pressure, I’d give them a way out so they could find a safer space before momentum built and resistance would disengage the part of their brain that is curious and cooperative.

ntroducing a saddle was a good object for them to feel on their back without a competitive vibe, training them to take a rider that had a different agenda than racing was a little more challenging, especially when asking for upward transitions. Lots of small circle work and direction changes to keep them thinking. I also had to resist pulling back on their mouths as they were accustomed to harsh bits for control; their mouths are very desensitized as a result, and they pulled back strongly. These horses have taught me that the greatest key is awareness of your own energy and focus. If you can’t hold a state of presence and calmness, get off and try again later! We began taking guests for beach rides within a couple of months of opening, though most of our early guests were novices and being led at a walk, which was a great advantage for the horses to learn their new role. Today, we still advise beginners to be guided under lead; however, we now have an incredible herd that can cater to an intermediate-level rider wanting to enjoy a relaxed canter down the beach. I am very proud of every single one of them and, of course, our incredible staff that is from the local villages. The horses are used for beach rides and also for other excursions. Can you tell us a bit about these?

I believe NIHI has some of the most beautiful riding trails in the world. You’ll venture through virgin rainforest-covered mountains, cross valley streams and rivers, and pass through 64 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

coconut groves and fields of rice that resemble a great patchwork quilt. Winding through the traditional villages, you’re greeted along the way with friendly smiles, and the only traffic jams you’ll encounter here is a herd or two of buffalo or goats being guided home by an attentive herdsman. The horses are also popular stars in wedding ceremonies. Wedding photos are made uniquely Sumba memorable, with bride and groom being ushered to the alter by a horse and horseman donned in colorful traditional Sumba dress. We are also working on having the horses play a major role in NIHI’s expanding wellness program. The classes I currently offer under my Equine Connection Experiences teach energy and self-awareness through learning equine communication. Guests have the opportunity to try yoga with, and on, a horse, as well as meditation practice with horses. Once a year, these horses also become polo ponies. How do they react to this, and how do you manage the training?

It’s definitely interesting. Especially when I was asked to host the first British Polo Day (BPD) just 18 months from the start. I still hadn’t acquired enough larger crossbreds. It was a relief to learn that the BPD team was not expecting serious polo ponies and that they are always up to play polo on the out-of-the-ordinary—camels, elephants, pushbikes, and now rough and slightly wild Sumba race ponies. Our training focus remained on calming for guest rides, but we introduced mallets and balls into the desensitizing training. We could only supply six horses for the game, so three aside, on about a quarter-size beach field using a larger arena ball. The game is not fast, as it’s being played in the sand. It can be hot, and hard going for the horses, so we play with shortened chukkers, and one final. The breaks between are gauged on the recovery of the horses, and this is usually taken with a dip in the ocean, saddle and all. It’s a whole lot of fun trying to get control of the ball in the sand and watch pro polo players try to manage unruly Sumba ponies against my local horsemen that do it so much better. We still have spectators’ participation between chukkers to rake the pitch rather than stomping the divots. Lastly, how easy is it to retrain a horse for a different job in life?

I heard a quote, I think from a dog trainer: “There are no untrainable dogs, just ignorant owners,” and I think this is true for just about everything in life, including training or retraining horses. If you ground yourself to your beliefs, you will more than likely get what you focus upon. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

PHOTOS: COURTESY GRAND HOTEL

ith fewer than 200 Hackney horses living in America today, the Grand Hotel Stables provide a rare opportunity to see these elegant, high-stepping horses up close. The 8,700 squarefoot working stable includes a vintage sleigh and carriage collection, and the concierge can also arrange horseback riding and carriage tours. At the Grand Hotel on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, no two rooms are alike. Each room and suite features its own design and ambiance. The hotel opened its doors in 1887 as a summer retreat for vacationers who traveled to the area by train and came to the island via steamer and boat. Throughout its tenure as “America’s Summer Place,” one family guided the resort’s growth to the stately getaway it is today.

MACKINAC ISLAND, WHICH BANS CARS, IS HOME TO THE GRAND HOTEL.

Mackinac Island became one of the nation’s favored summer resort destinations during the Victorian era. Vacationers seeking the cooler weather on Mackinac Island arrived in large lake-excursion boats from Buffalo, Cleveland, Chicago, and Detroit. They danced to Strauss’ waltzes, listened to Sousa’s stirring marches, dined on whitefish, and strolled along the broad decks. To accommodate overnight guests, boat and railroad companies financed the building of the Grand Hotel. One of the most noticeable differences on Mackinac Island (which is accessible only by boat and plane) is the absence of automobiles. Visitors and residents travel by foot, bicycle, or horsedrawn carriage. There are only 600 year-round residents. And during the summer, there are more CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 than 500 horses.

MACKINAC LOS CABOS , MICHIGAN

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CORDOB A , ARGENTINA

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PHOTOS: ESTANCIA LOS POOTREROS

ocated on the day’s end, guests can enjoy the beautiful but litbest of Argentine food and wine tle-known Sierras with home-reared beef washed Chicas, Estancia down with Malbec. Los Potreros is The estancia practices sustainnestled between able farming and responsible the Pampas and the Andes. tourism. Most of the energy used Argentina is the land of the gauis generated by wind, water, and cho, wide-open spaces, and some solar power, and all farming on of the world’s finest beef and the estancia is undertaken with wine. Hosts Kevin and Louisa organic principles. The ranch Begg welcome visitors to a taste operates with a “farm-to-table” of authentic estancia life. With ethos, with home-reared beef, only 12 guests at any given time, free-range eggs, and fruit and ESTANCIA LOS everyone eats, drinks, laughs, vegetables raised on the estancia. POTREROS and rides together, and often strangers leave as The estancia also runs a tree-planting program friends, just as it has always been at the estancia. IS NESTLED and a zero food waste policy. Even the wine Guests can canter along grassy hilltops, take a bottles are transported back to the winery, where BETWEEN THE dip in natural rock pools, visit local churches on they are filled again with Los Potrero’s own label PAMPAS AND horseback, help round up the young horses, learn wine. The estancia was one of the first places in THE ANDES. to lasso, or have a go at polo. The trails can also be South America to be awarded the TripAdvisor used for walking, exploring the viewpoints and hidden waterGreenLeader Platinum status. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 falls, and admiring the wildflowers and abundant birdlife. At M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 6 7

CHIT TENDEN, VERMONT

even hundred acres atop a quiet mountain road are home to the Mountain Top Inn and Resort. A luxury four-season escape in the Green Mountains of Vermont, it provides sweeping views, a lake with a private beach, and a wide range of activities for the whole family. The resort’s 36 lodge rooms and suites, plus private cabins and guest houses, offer a “mountain modern” take on luxe accommodations. The restaurant and tavern offer summer outdoor seating, the resort’s spa offers a full range of treatments, and the surrounding environment is a playground for outdoor-lovers, with pontoon boat rides, tennis courts, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, biking trails, ice skating, and much more. As an acclaimed wedding venue, the

THE MOUNTAIN TOP INN IS A DOG-FRIENDLY FOUR SEASONS RESORT.

resort hosts gorgeous ceremonies and receptions year-round. Horse boarding is available at the resort’s equestrian center, open each summer from Memorial Day through October. As the only Vermont resort to offer a full equestrian program, you will not be able to resist the trails, whether you decide to have a full-on horseback vacation or simply add a trail ride to your trip. The Mountain Top Inn and Resort is also a favorite of dog lovers, with pet-friendly accommodations. In addition, the resort has 10 dogfriendly groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If you don’t have your own, equipment is available to rent at the activity center. The only thing more special than exploring the peaceful countryside, sweeping views, and brisk Vermont air is sharing it with your pooch. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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rosa is one of “Never take your skis off,” the most beaupromises the resort of a winter tiful places in stay. It takes just five minutes to Switzerland. The reach the slopes, whether it’s via Arosa Kulm Hotel the Weisshorn, the Hörnli, or the and Alpin Spa, in Arosa-Lenzerheide train station. The the heart of Grisons, is a perfect Arosa-Lenzerheide ski area, the larggetaway for families and guests of est in Grisons, offers 140 miles of all ages. Many guests return year trails at altitudes of between 4,032 after year, seduced by the quality of and 9,400 feet. The 43 lifts allow the six restaurants, the marvelous you to explore the whole area and THE AROSA interiors, and majestic scenery. the endless trails that wind between pristine white KULM HOTEL The spa’s stainless-steel pool evokes a mountain forests and frozen lakes. In Arosa, visitors can hike, lake or a hot spring in the frosty mountains that IS A PERFECT sled, walk, and play. From Tschuggenhütte, a beausurround it. Bask in a state of well-being as you GETAWAY FOR tiful sled run leads to Innerarosa, where you can take in the panoramic views of the Swiss mountains FAMILIES AND enjoy a sublime view of the surrounding peaks. outside. GUESTS OF ALL Visitors can, of course, also take in the area from The Relais & Châteaux property is a charming AGES. a horse-drawn sleigh. Wrap up warmly and let old hotel situated over 6,000 feet above sea level your coach driver and his horses take you over the that opened in 1882. The stunning Swiss mountains nearby can snow-covered paths. A sleigh is the perfect vehicle from which be enjoyed on sun terraces or through the expansive window to take in the magnificent surrounding landscape, with an vistas. The resort’s location inside the quiet village is ideal CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 atmosphere of wintery romance. for a romantic weekend or family holiday.

AROSA , SWIT ZERLAND

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TRAVEL DIARY

HORIZON HORSEB ACK , SOUTH AFRICA

aúl and Susannah flew to Africa safari rides, there are opportunities to take English STRANDED on March 13, 2020, for their planned riding lessons, cross-country jumping, and more. ON SAFARI week-long vacation with Horizon While Susannah had been riding for a number Horseback. “It was precisely the week of years prior to their trip, including endurance ridAs the 2020 where many lockdowns were impleing in the Gulf region and a bit of polo for fun, Saúl COVID-19 lockmented across many countries,” said was a beginning rider. “The time at Horizon allowed downs began, this Saúl. “The world was entering a pandemic crisis, a me to explore show jumping. It was a pleasant surprise couple ended up time of uncertainty.” that has evolved to presently taking lessons, training, getting much more “We were unable to return to the country where and envisioning the possibility to compete,” said Saúl. than they expected we were residents, as the airspace had been closed,” “After my return, there has also been the opportunity continued Susannah. “We decided to stay at Horizon out of their African to reconnect with the equestrian side of Venezuela, the horseback safari. because we could explore the large property on horsecountry I was born in, where horses and the equestrian back. There were staff members who stayed on and context have deep ties to the country’s culture.” became our good friends over our four-month stay. At a time Over their time at Horizon, Susannah and Saúl managed to when communities seemed to be closed off, it felt good to be ride about 75 percent of the herd of over 90 horses. “Both Saúl surrounded by good people and magnificent nature.” and I had our favorites. My top two were a little mare named Horizon Horseback offers horseback safaris and varied horseGG with a big heart and a go-get-’em attitude and a nice, forriding experiences for all levels and ages. The South African ward Arab named McVitie. Saúl’s favorite was Tequila, an older business focuses on high-quality equestrian experiences, mangelding who was GG’s pair bond.” aging their horses as a free-roaming herd within large tracts For their unexpectedly extended stay, the couple was able of natural pasture. Selected for their endurance, courage, and to keep a daily routine that involved a lot of riding. Susannah responsiveness, the horses are at ease within their environment, explained, “I would get up early in the morning to go and work allowing riders to take in the terrain and wildlife. In addition to in the office, then a short mid-morning ride, followed by lunch, 70 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

and then back to the office. When my workday was complete, we would both go out to ride again.” Saúl has published several feature articles in the past and developed a few interesting ideas for his writing while at Horizon. “At the same time, I was alternating between mornings and afternoons for my show-jumping lessons as well as some trail riding,” said Saúl. “It all worked smoothly.” As for many, the pandemic and the unexpected circumstances it caused were also a source of learning and life-changing experiences. Susannah explained, “I learned that the world is not purely financial/economic. There was a strong sense of community, supporting each other, sharing, and much caring. It was a time for our brains to rest from the relentlessness of city life, to be able to stop, to enjoy watching birds fly, and a flock moving as one.” Saúl drew similar conclusions. “I felt rather soon that we were entering a historical stage, for which neither countries nor organizations were fully prepared, even if there have been other

pandemic situations in contemporary history. This was a new circumstance, framed in the digital era, where it was clear to me that the flow and speed of information could either unite us or separate us as humankind. At any rate, I wondered about the concept of globalization in the sense that it should be seen not merely as a connection for easy trade but rather as an opportunity for a reappraisal of human fraternity. Fortunately, in the lodge, a sense of caring and fraternity was a living thing.” Since they have been home, Saúl has continued riding, taking show jumping-lessons, and competing in a few training shows, including one in Abu Dhabi and another in Dubai. “I am aiming for a few more this year, and perhaps the path to formal competition, in one way or another, will be paved!” said Saúl. “Horses have been a passion for me from a young age; life would not be the same without them,” said Susannah. “We are planning to return to Africa when we can. Once Africa is in your blood, you need to surrender her call to return.” CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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LOFOTEN ISLANDS , NORWAY

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PHOTOS: LOFOTEN LINKS LODGE

Vikings and their sagas. The n equestrian horses have four comfortable stay in Norway paces; most of them can tölt, a in the heart fast but comfortable step. Guides of the Lofoten Frode and Lisa are fluent in both Islands lets you Norwegian and English and are uncover the enthusiastic riders with extensive wild and isolated nature of the knowledge of the horses and local island of Gimsøy and follow old terrain. Viking routes to discover magTo join the excursion, riders nificent Norwegian landscapes. must be fit and prepared for long Depending on the season, you days in the saddle and varying will experience the spectacle of climates. the midnight sun or the colorThe trip includes five nights ful northern lights, all from the NORWEGIAN in beautiful farm lodges situated comfort of your lodge located a in ideal locations to view the Northern lights in ISLAND OF stone’s throw from the beach. This riding holiday the winter. The lodges are within walking distance on Gimsøy is an unforgettable experience that will GIMSØY of the beach and are equipped with wood stoves, have you immersed in the culture of the Vikings WITH EQUUS kitchens, living rooms, WiFi and TV, and outdoor who shaped the history of this unique country. JOURNEYS terraces. This six-day group ride, run by Equus Journeys, Meals are included and consist of buffet breakincludes a visit to the Viking museum, local fasts, picnic or restaurant lunches, and two-course dinners at the farms, white-sand beaches, and plenty of time on horseback. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94 nearby Laven Restaurant. The mounts are Icelandic horses, bred with the history of the . M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 7 3

INTERVIEW BY JILL NOVOTNY

THE

STORYTELLING SCULPTURES OF

TYREL JOHNSON

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The Huntress Opposite page: Continuance of Action Below: Continuance of Action detail

M A RCH/A PRIL | 20 2 2 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 7 5

Left: Sculptor Tyrel Johnson at work in his studio.

Can you tell us a bit about your career as an artist? When did you know it was what you wanted to pursue?

Can you speak a bit about your family, your father’s work, and being one of 16 kids?

I grew up playing and creating in my father’s bronze foundry. Being the youngest, I had many great teachers. I always said I was going to grow up to be an artist, and in my twenties, I really dug into acquiring skill through seven years of intense anatomical studies. I then had to loosen up for about two years by doing quick sculpts to let go of the meticulous and embrace my inner expressions. I did not want to market or sell my work until I could stand back and know that I had become the skilled artist that my childhood self had dreamt of. I remember the day that occurred: I had completed a sculpture of my 5-year-old daughter about to kiss a toad and said out loud, “I’m good enough.” I studied design for quite some time after. I knew I hadn’t found the right path to express my gifts yet. Woodworking was my hobby and art, my goal. One day I had had a rough day at work—I was running my own construction company. I came home, drilled a big hole in a piece of wood, sculpted an owl inside, and sold it that night. It was obvious that I had found a way to express myself—and that limitless potential will keep me busy until I die. The short few years following my first completed bronze and wood pairing have been surreal, to say the least. I knew it was beautiful and that no one else was creating the way I do, but I did not expect the magnitude of recognition that I have received. It makes me tear up writing about it. My inner child is giddy with excitement, and I am grateful to a depth that only a difficult journey can render.

In my family, there are ten boys, two girls, and four adopted brothers. I always joke and say that mom and dad were determined to get it right. Hence me, the youngest. It was tough in a lot of ways. My parents, who are my personal role models, took in lots of people in need. When I was six, there were 26 people living in our home. We all often went without as a result, but I would betray the most admirable parts of my character, wishing it away or resenting it. We are a very skilled group of people. My dad started a foundry to cast his own sculptures—we all worked there. We sculpted and cast many monuments, most of which were my father’s artworks. We also cast work for many artists over the years. I worked all phases, as did most of us, and ended up settling in metalwork. You should see our family’s yearly white elephant gift exchange. It is epic, with beautiful handmade gifts in nearly every package. I am grateful to have had such an upbringing.

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Animals play a large part in your work; what do you feel animals bring to your art?

I have always loved animals. If I wasn’t outside finding them, I was inside learning about them. Animals help tell the story I want to impart in a way that would be impossible otherwise. I also think that animals help us relate to parts of ourselves in a way that can never be seen as negative on a personal level. I want unconventional pairings that elicit something new in the viewer. continued on page 80

Undivided Love

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Caution to the Wind Opposite page: Horse of Another Color

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Gratitude

continued from page 76

Do you have experience with horses or riding? What is it about horses that inspires you to sculpt them?

We had 30 Arabians when I was really young. I have profound memories of seeing them run so gracefully with their tails unfurled. I was never much for riding them, but I loved being around them and watching them. Though a horse’s beauty is enough to inspire sculpture, I think their human-like qualities help tip the scales from my perspective as a storyteller. There are so many possibilities for me to explore and many beautiful breeds to convey them.

the feeling she must have had despite the barbed barrier between them. When I sought out models to create the current larger version, I picked a horse who turned out to have a young owner who had just barely won a battle with leukemia. She hadn’t seen her horse for seven months. Naturally, I asked her if she would pose for the sculpture with her horse. It is a beautifully conceived sculpture that anyone can relate to with two distinctly heartwarming stories to tell. Being able to share those stories and emotions through art is one of the many reasons I love what I do.

“Undivided Love” is a sculpture that expresses the connection between a horse and a girl. Can you tell us about that piece and what inspired it?

What are your goals when you create your work? Do you begin with a complete story in mind, or does the idea evolve as you create the piece? What informs your choice of materials?

The idea came when I was troubling over what to make for a friend’s charity auction. I had heard her beautiful story of how she acquired the horse she started her equine charity program with. She was going through a very difficult patch in her life and would visit this horse on a dirt road every day heading to her home. After two years of this daily therapy, the horse’s owner heard about this woman visiting her horse. The owner decided to give her the horse on the spot. I wanted to capture

My goal is always to bring something that transcends beauty to the viewer. I want my work to give its owners a positive feeling every time they walk through the room where they’ve placed it. I want it to be beautiful and elegant yet simple. Their hearts are complex enough to fill it with countless meanings or moments that I couldn’t dream up if I tried. If something beautiful wells up within them because of my art, then I have succeeded.

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CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

T H E F I N E S T H O M E S , FA R M S , A N D

RANCHES FROM E Q U E ST R I A N L I V I N G

EQ U E STR IAN EQLiving.com

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

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a Victoria Farm a 7.3acre equestrian property is being offered for the first time. Located only a short hack to the show grounds this 28-stall farm with main residence is designed for the ultimate equestrian lifestyle.

Custom built with no expense spared, using only the finest materials. Access the barn and 3,600-squarefoot main residence through three separate gated entrances. The main residence has 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. There are two separate one bedroom staff quarters in the

barn and a separate manager’s house on property. The 28-stall barn has two 16-foot-wide aisles each with 14 stalls complemented with separate tack rooms, laundry, feed, bathrooms, wash racks, and grooming stalls. The back-up generators provide complete service for the entire property. There

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

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS: – 28 stalls, center aisle – 185 x 200 ft. all-weather arena – 4 bedroom, 3,600 sq. ft. main house – 3 gated entrances –Manager’s and staff housing –Hack or golf cart to horse show

is a separate storage building for the tractor, drag, jumps, and other farm equipment. There is full property security and fire monitoring systems for peace of mind when you’re here or away. This is truly one of Wellington’s finest and most complete equestrian estates. Offered at: $22,500,000

DAVID WELLES, P.A. Founding Associate 561.313.9123 dwelles@equestriansir.com 1218 South Shore Blvd. Suite 102, Wellington, FL

OC TOB E R/NOVE MB E R | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 8 3

EEQQUUEESSTTRRI A I ANN PPRROOPPEERT RTI EI ESS

David Welles, P.A.

wellesproperties.com | Wellington, Florida

Mallet Hill | $21,000,000

New Listing

David Welles, P.A. Global Real Estate Advisor 561.313.9123 dwelles@equestriansir.com

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New Listing

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

David Welles, P.A.

wellesproperties.com | Wellington, Florida

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20th Century Equestrian Estate | 125 Acres | 12 Stall Barn 1 Hour Outside of NYC | Indoor Arena | 4 Carriage Houses *In Cooperation with Kienlen Lattmann Sotheby’s International Realty

Consistently Listing and Successfully Selling Wellington. With over $100 Million in sales in 2021, David Welles is a leader in OC TOB E R/NOVE MB E R | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M Wellington’s equestrian property sales represeting both sellers and buyers alike.

| 85

ROOT E D I N PE N N SYLVA N I A H ORS E C O U NT RY Continued from page 42

The family room where the Matzes like to gather.

The original part of the house was built around 1870, and D.D.’s mother added a significant addition in 1960. D.D. has only made minor but enhancing structural revisions that included expanding a back patio, adding an upstairs porch, and building out a kitchen seating area surrounded by windows that flood the space with light.

he welcoming living spaces have a soothing palette and furnishings that reflect D.D.’s classic aesthetic and taste. She notes that designer Dolly Fisher, a friend of Bunny Mellon, the revered gardening and design idol, helped with some of the initial design, much of which is still in place. “I did a couple of little tweaks that Dougie Mutch of Gracie Street Interior Design in West Palm Beach, Florida, helped me with after we’d done the house in Wellington, Florida. Matt Carter of Lexington, Kentucky, helped with decorating modifications in the living and dining rooms,” D.D. comments. A marvelous juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary 86 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

artwork, family photos, and a trove of riding and training awards accrued by Michael, D.D., and their children give the home an authentic appeal. Knowing that each piece has a backstory and that D.D. has sought out particular artists because she appreciates their talent and understands their process adds to the overall allure. “I’ve always been very interested in art. It’s a little bit of a compulsion for me,” laughs D.D. The Matzes are fully engaged in this beautiful hamlet in Chester County, whether enjoying the variety of equestrian activities, gathering with friends and family, or dedicating time to preserving the lush countryside and cultural venues that surround them. D.D. serves both sides of the Brandywine River Museum and Conservancy in various leadership roles in an effort to enusre that the beauty of the area remains for future generations. When asked why D.D. chose to live here, she laughed. “I was born in this area. The hospital where I was born is now an old-folks home, so I tell my kids when it’s time they could take me right back. It would be full circle.”

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

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5.5 Acres | 4 BD Main Home | State of the Art Barn | 13 Stalls

2.5 Acres | 4 BD Main Home | 14 Stall Center Aisle Barn | 2 Groom’s Quarters

Offe re d at $10,9 9 5 ,0 0 0

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O ffe re d a t $ 2,70 0,0 0 0

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WO R L D CU P L A N E | EQU ESTR I A N CLUB 7 BD 5 BA + Office | 4 Car Garage | Heated Pool | .39 Acre

O ffe re d a t $ 2,49 5 ,0 0 0

561-771-2626 | equestriansir.com | Shore 12180 South Shore Blvd, Suite 102 | Wellington, FL 33414 12180 South Blvd, Suite 102 | Wellington, FL 33414 Sotheby’s International Realty Sotheby’s International Realty logoare areregistered registeredservice servicemarks marksused usedwith with permission. permission. Each Each office office is Sotheby’s International Realty andand thethe Sotheby’s International Realty logo is independently independently owned ownedand andoperated. operated.Equal EqualHousing HousingOpportunity. Opportunity. OC TOB E R/NOVE MB E R | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 8 7

EQ F A V O R I T E S

A MAN WALKS INTO A BARN OK

Continued from page 18

TH N S EE ER W V T O E C B

did in the moment, more path-like, and since our instructions were to follow the path to the end, that was the fork we took. And for perhaps fifty yards or more that route had the feel of a nice horse show path, lined with trees on both sides and edged by a block wall. But then the vibe started to change and there was an abrupt transition. We found ourselves making our way through an area filled with equipment, clusters of jump standards, and piles of poles. We kept going, though, even as our surroundings seemed less and less like where we were supposed to be. We traveled through a parking lot on the backside of what we didn’t yet know was the show office, along a short path next to a house, and suddenly—to the great surprise of all the people who were looking for us to come from a completely different direction—emerged exactly where we were supposed to be. (I’ve since walked the route again, and can only conclude that it was pure luck that brought us to the right place. But that was where the luck ended.) It was a flat class, and all the other riders were already in the ring. There was no time for a warm-up, no time for Ada to collect her thoughts, no time to wipe off the dirt that was surely on her boots. She went in, the gate closed, and the announcer informed the riders that they were now being judged. Not surprisingly, that class didn’t go so well. But things came together quickly after that. The highlight came when Ada and Cash won two of their three medal classes and placed second in the third. But it’s not the ribbons that stand out in my memory. Instead, it was their confidence. I recall standing near the in-gate, which just a day before we had rushed to find, listening to Ada conferring with Serah before her

rides. So often those conversations between a trainer and rider involve reviewing the course, together with a healthy portion of “remember the basics,” “stay calm,” “breathe,” and the like. It’s an exercise in calming nerves. That’s often valuable, but here it was unnecessary. The basics would happen. That was understood. They were beyond that. There are times when you’re “in the zone,” where you know, with as much certainty as one can know anything, that it’s going to be good, and the only question is how good. It’s happened to me enough—sometimes in athletic competition, but mostly in professional contexts—to be able to recognize it. And that’s where they were. Any nervous energy was the productive kind. The conversation was not just about how to do it, but how to do it with the most style. An attentive bystander who knew nothing about the horse or rider beyond having heard these conversations would know to watch for a strong ride. They knew they would do well, and they did.

t was like that in lessons, too. Raise the jumps, make the turns tighter, it didn’t much matter. They would do whatever they were asked, and they would do it well. The partnership had advanced and solidified. It was a joy to watch. But for as good a team as they were, the situation created a problem. It’s natural to want to pull for the underdog. And it’s easy to imagine that the storybook ending can be your ending, that maybe, just maybe, there’s room for a horse plucked from obscurity—for your horse plucked from obscurity—to shine on the big stage. I’m sure Ada and Cash Continued on page 90

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

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Within 15 min of charming Haleiwa Town with no traffic concerns. The property’s master plan has been centered around a sustainable farming plantation of noni and coconut trees but is flexible enough to allow for a variety of agricultural endeavors. Property allows up to a 10,000sqft dream home with enough space for pool, tennis court, and accessory ag building. Private point setting offers 500 linear feet of beach frontage with unobstructed views of coastlines and sunsets. Beach walks, shelling, monk seals, surf, diving, mountain hikes & biking await.

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION AND VIDEO

Joel Cavasso 808.216.9988 joelcavasso@me.com RB-13463 OC TOB E R/NOVE MB E R | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 8 9

Joel Cavasso is a real estate licensee affiliated with compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

EQ E S S EEQ N TFI A VL O S R| IFTAEVSO R I T E S U

A MAN WALKS INTO A BARN

TH N S EE ER W V T O E C B

Continued from page 88

never left the ring after any class thinking they’d just been as good as they were ever going to be together. But it nonetheless seemed clear that they were nearing their limits. In important ways the dreams were all starting to seem possible. Riding in a show at the Kentucky Horse Park had become a reality, which made it seem that adding just a few words, so that the phrase was “riding at the Kentucky Horse Park in the Maclay Finals,” might be possible as well. If one could happen, why not the other? The problem, of course, was that Cash simply didn’t fit the bill. One could say, and I would guess that the words probably crossed my lips on one or more occasions, that he wasn’t a nice enough horse. But that, I now think, is to bring an unwarranted

snobbishness into the picture. He wasn’t the right sort of horse, where what counts as the right sort is, to a degree, a product of fashion. A rider might once have been competitive at a national level on a Thoroughbred or even an Appendix Quarter Horse. But hunter/jumper shows are the domain of Warmbloods now. Cash didn’t fit the picture. A gatecrasher might get into the dance, but only in movies will he win any prizes. The dreams would require a different horse. Our budget, comparatively speaking, was not large. But you do what you can do as a parent, and we would support this next step. We gave the okay for Serah to start a search for a new horse. INFO | PAGE 94

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OC TOB E R/NOVE MB E R | 20 1 6 | EQ L I V I NG .CO M | 9 1

KEEP THEM OUT! Suggestions for controlling unwanted visitors IN AND AROUND YOUR BARN.

nwanted squatters often choose horse barns as homes because they offer food, water, and protection from adverse weather and predators. These tenants can include rats, squirrels, woodchucks, chipmunks, mice, birds, snakes, and even bears. They can transmit West Nile Virus, rabies, Potomac Horse Fever, or salmonella, a bacterial infection contracted by horses orally through tainted feed or water. They also cause damage by chewing through wood and metal and digging tunnels under stall mats. It is far easier to prevent pests from moving into the barn in the first place than to handle the infestation later. While there are many wildlife control methods, never use poisons in a horse barn. Poisoned pests who may die hidden under a floor or in a wall are health hazards to horses, people, and other animals that may eat them. And, when they decay in hidden spaces, the resulting horrible smells can be difficult to eliminate, and they can endure for a long time.

92 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

Mouse or rat traps are dangers to dogs, cats, and even children. What to do?

The first step is to do everything possible to eliminate food sources. Spilled grain and feed are a smorgasbord for vermin, so always store grain in heavy-weight containers. Food sources extend to more than grain; rodents feasting on grain provide a favorite meal for snakes. Also, garbage cans invite hungry critters. Keep food waste in sealable trash cans.

isiting wildlife is also drawn to sources of water. Water buckets on the floor are an open invitation. Mice and snakes are encouraged to drink, and they often fall in and drown. The best way to water horses without sharing with unwanted visitors is to install automatic waterers. Also, try to clean up spills because even the smallest puddle offers wildlife a drink. Doors should not have gaps that allow small animals entrance. Burying chicken wire or netting around the exterior can block

animals from digging under a wall. Avoid easy access to soffits by keeping bushes and trees from overhanging the barn. Chipmunks, squirrels, and raccoons are all adept at leaping from a branch onto a roof. High, flat surfaces are welcoming nesting sites for birds. For example, flat-topped posts invite swallow nests. Pyramid-shaped wood or metal in these spots will deter nest building. Lastly, barn cats and dogs can be on duty guarding against mice, rats, and other unwanted visitors, including snakes. Again, preventing pests in the first place is more efficient than resolving the problem later. But if an infestation happens, it is easier to manage invaders if you take action immediately, rather than give the new tenants time to settle in.

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

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MEET JAXX AND GOAT Two rescue dogs with OPPOSITE PERSONALITIES enjoy the good life in California.

JOHN BRAGG is a well-

known West Coast hunter-jumper trainer and the owner of Bridgeport Farms in San Juan Capistrano, California. TROY CHRISTIANSEN is an attorney in Beverly Hills and an amateur rider. We asked them to tell us about Jaxx and Goat, their latest rescues from Thrive Animal Rescue, founded by CeCe Durante Bloum and Georgia Spogli. Thrive comes to the aid of abandoned and discarded dogs of all breeds, ages, and situations by providing medical aid, love, and support.

ohn Bragg’s life has been filled with dogs. “My first dog that I considered as my own was a Jack Russell when I was 17 that lived to be one month shy of 20,” John says. “Many other dogs followed, including a yellow lab. CeCe Bloum (of Thrive Animal Rescue) called me and said she had a senior rescue, a 10- or 11-year-old yellow lab. I had him for a couple of years, and he was probably one of the best dogs I’ve ever had in my life to date. And when he passed on, we waited a little while, and then CeCe found Jaxx.” He had terrible mange, and they weren’t sure what he would look like, but, John says, “He turned out to be beautiful. Everyone comments on what a cool-looking dog he is.” When CeCe picked him up, he was in very bad shape and stayed at the vet clinic for two weeks. “If I sent you a picture from the day they picked him up, and a month later, and now, you wouldn’t believe the difference in the way he looks,” John 98 | EQ UE S T R I A N L I V IN G | MARCH/ APRI L | 2022

John Bragg and Jaxx; Troy Christiansen and Goat.

laughs. “He’s definitely a handful, but he’s almost three now, and he’s turned out to be such a great dog. At horse shows, he’s either back at the barn, or he’s on my golf cart up at the ring. He goes everywhere with me.” “Goat has a bit of a different life,” says Troy. “He’s definitely a horse show dog. He’s grown up at the horse shows with us for the last four or five years, but during the week, he comes to my office in Beverly Hills—just kind of curled up under the desk, and he sits there and watches me work.” When they adopted Goat, his original name at the shelter was Bolt because, as Troy explains, “He would run away all the time. When we got him, we’d take him to a horse show, and he’d run away from us and go back to CeCe because he considered her his mom. It took a while for him to stop

running away.” “Goat doesn’t like many people. He’s a nice little dog, but he gravitates towards just a few people in his little inner circle. And that’s about it. He’s not one of those dogs that go running up to everybody to say hello. Jaxx is the opposite. I feel like he might have some Labrador or something in him because he runs up to everybody and wants to say hello.” John interjects, “Well, not everybody, but all kids—he loves kids and wants to play with them.” John and Troy can’t say enough about Thrive Animal Rescue. “There are so many people at the horse shows that have Thrive dogs. CeCe has fully dedicated herself to this. It’s been incredible to watch her expand the organization. Thrive brings dogs to the shows, sets up fundraisers, and travels all over Southern California and other states to rescue dogs.” Troy says, “I remember early on, I helped them set up the formation of the company. It was just so tiny, but things have grown and grown. I’m guessing their success rate is 99 to 100 percent. They always seem to be able to place the dogs in great homes. It’s amazing to watch how they do it. Their website explains their process of placing dogs and working as a personal shopper for adopters, ‘If you’re commited to rescuing a dog, Thrive will keep your preferences in mind as we visit the shelters, then contact you when we think we have a suitable match that fits your application.’” “Yes,” John agrees. “They take their time to make sure that the forever home is actually forever.” CONTACT INFO | PAGE 94

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Equestrian Living - March/April 2022

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