MA’CEO

generations. Today, the four brothers who founded Cavallo Equestrian Arts continue the legacy.

Ma’Ceo’s creator and director, Olissio Zoppe, is one of the world’s best equestrian performers. He creates a phenomenal show of evolving performances of unparalleled talent. The majestic Friesians, horses, and ponies demonstrate an obvious connection and devotion between horse and human. Olissio carries on his family’s tradition beautifully, and his 4-year-old daughter is already learning the ropes, traveling and performing with the cast. The show performs across the United States and Canada.

The ASPCA Maclay Final is one of the most cherished and prestigious classes in equestrian sport. Each year, junior riders (under age 18) compete throughout the country in hopes of qualifying for this pinnacle competition. Since its inception in 1933, the event showcases future industry champions. Winners have included top riders such as George Morris, Leslie Burr Howard, Jessica Springsteen, Stacia Madden, and Lillie Keenan.

The timeless designs of the jumps in Maclay courses impress exhibitors and spectators every year. The jump course typically includes classic and historicalstyle jumps with stunningly manicured hedges, brick walls, hogsback peaks, and roll tops. Renowned course designer Bobby Murphy announced in 2021 that he expected to retire many jumps previously used in Maclay Final competitions, and he would work with others to design new fences.

This news opened an exceptional opportunity for Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) students to be a part of the jump-design process.

Ahna Phelps, associate chair and professor of equestrian studies, teaches an upper-level class for seniors called Competition Design. Students learn horse show management and course

Savannah College of Art and Design students design

Maclay Final jumps.

BY SARAH LESSLER