the plaid horse - jan/feb 2016 - the stallion issue

theplaidhorse.com January/February 2016 1

Americas Premiere Horse Show Magazine

January/February 2016 The Stallion Issue

Inside Ryan Pedigo Breeding for Success in CaliforniaPony Lane Farm Artist Julie Ferris Leslie Steele in Africa Lauren Davis

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Ranch, Farm & EquineContact: Stacey CinquiniDirect/Text: (949) 289-4722Fax: (949) 429-8097Email: [email protected]

Louise Sullivan & Zico.

Web: www.cinquiniins.com Facebook: Cinquini Insurance Services LLCTwitter & Instagram: @CinquiniInsLic #0G96286 / 0I72676

The choice of champions.

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THE OAKS FARMS ~ SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA

JOHN BRAGG 949.338.7095PHOTO MCCOOL PHOTOGRAPHY

1st Year Green USEF NATIONAL CHAMPION HORSE OF THE YEAR USHJA Horse of the Year Zone 10 CHAMPION

PCHA YEAR END CHAMPION USHJA Hunter Owner Recognition Award RESERVE CHAMPION

SOCIAL HOUR

BRIDGEPORT FARMSCongratulates Laura Strasburg


BRIDGEPORT FARMSCongratulates Gabriella Cinquini


JOHN BRAGG 949.338.7095PHOTOS SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Capital Challenge CHAMPION

SMALL JUNIOR HUNTERS 15 & UNDER

USHJA Horse of the Year Zone 10

RESERVE CHAMPION

COFFEE TALK

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JOHN BRAGG 949.338.7095PHOTOS CAPTURED MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

AA Hunters 36-50 PCHA YEAR END CHAMPION USHJA Horse of the Year Zone 10 RESERVE CHAMPION

BRIDGEPORT FARMSCongratulates Pamela Moellenhoff

SERANTINO

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Contact Evan Coluccio at 561-307-2263 or [email protected] to help you make your dream into real life.

Youre not just buying a horse, youre buying an individual.

Proudly standing EMC

Entourage(JET BLUE PENDLEY

MISS PERFECTION)

Our 13.2h homebred Welsh/Westphalian/English Riding pony.

A true sport pony!

THANK YOU TO SPONSOR VOLTAIRE DESIGN

2015 WINNERS PRODUCED BY EMC INTERNATIONAL

HIGH SOCIETY 2015 Young Hunter Classic

winner at Middleburg Classic

LOVE GAME USHJA International Hunter Derby winner at Lexington Spring Encore

RARITY First Year Green & High Performance

winner at WEF


C H R I S T I N E T R I G G E RAccepting New Clients Walk-trot Through Pony Hunters

Peacock Ridge Farm t r iggerchr is t ine@gmai l . com 407-491-3727

PHOTO EMILY ALLONGO PHOTOGRAPHY

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Grand & Large Pony Hunter Champion Washington International Horse Show Pennsylvania National Horse Show

Best Child Rider on a Pony Pennsylvania National Horse Show Washington International Horse Show

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N SFarah Rizvi & Glynhafan Red Kestral

PHOTO SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Glynhafan Red Kestral

Large Pony Champion usef pony finals 2015


C O N G R AT U L AT I O N SZayna Rizvi & Swingtown

Medium Pony Hunter Champion Washington International Horse Show

PHOTO SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Pennsylvania National Horse Show Capital Challenge Horse Show

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theplaidhorse.com January/February 2016 13 theplaidhorse.com January/February 2016 11

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AKA Showstoppers LLC would like to congratulate

SPORTIN AROUND for achieving the National title of USEF Medium Pony Hunter of the Year.

What a great honor. What an awesome pony.

Congratulations to Kierstin

Antoniadis & Amelia Ruth

his talented riders this year.

THANK YOU Little Brook Farm,

Gary Duffy, Donna Duffy, Kelsey Duffy,

Augusta Duffy & to all who have

helped make this year possible.

www.akashowstoppers.com (845)-820-2164 Montgomery, NY


Fairy Tale Farms is excited to present some great new partnerships for 2016!

CONGRATULATIONS TO

BEST OF LUCK to all these new pairs! FAIRY TALE FARMS CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Jaimee Rosenthal 704-453-4963 [email protected] Showing ~ Training ~ Sales

Gracie Gore on the lease of Pret-a-Porter.

Good luck in the Short Stirrup division this year! Many thanks to Tom Brennan of

Winter Hill Farm and Tracy Brennan of

Vineyard Haven Farm.

Nolan Thompson on the purchase of Capicua Z. Good luck in the Junior Hunter

and Equitation rings! Thanks go out to Wendy Peralta, Phillip Long, and Margaret

Overby of Old Homestead Farm.

And Congratulations to the Lloyd family on their purchase of The Lorax.

Cannon Thomas on the purchase of C. Theodore. Look for this incredible young horse

in the Pregreens this year! Special thanks to Jared DePermentier

& Trevor Hawthorne of Timber Hill LLC.

Grace Angelino on the purchase of Confidant. Good luck in both the

Junior Hunter and Equitation rings! Thanks again to Timber Hill LLC.

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Amber Bauman 815-790-2151 [email protected] woodstock, illinois

photos andrew ryback photography

Sebastian Small Green Pony Hunter

Qualified 2016 Pony Finals

Two For The Bunny Medium Regular Pony Hunter

2015 Pony Finals Best Presented Medium Green

Blonde Moment Medium Green Pony Hunter Qualified 2016 Pony Finals

Rumor Has It Zone V Pony Jumpers

Justameres Little Diamond Medium Regular Pony Hunter

Charlie Brown Small Regular Pony Hunter Qualified 2016 Pony Finals

Your go-to source for quality green and regular small, medium, and large ponies.

B e s t o f L u c k i n t h e u p c o m i n g s h o w s e a s o n

ValleyView Acres

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KRISTINA NOVAK Santa Ynez, CA (818) 917-5540 www.kristinanovak.com

Valley Vi e w Farm

A BEAUTIFUL HUNTER STALLION WITH EXCEPTIONAL CONFORMATION, GREAT MOVEMENT, FANTASTIC JUMP, AND AN EVEN BETTER TEMPERAMENT!

Available for the 2016 breeding season:

D O N C a r l O S2010 KWPN STALLION BY INDOCTROALSO AVAILABLE FOR SALE SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY

He is already proving himself in the hunter ring, with many tri-colors and blues at AA rated shows in 2015, his first year of showing. This talented hunter stallion is a true gentleman, sweet and kind with an exceptional disposition. Imported July 2014.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU JENNY KARAZISSIS AND PAUL KEENAN FOR MAKING 2015 SO SUCCESSFUL.


Lance Williamson StablesTRAINERS LANCE WILLIAMSON FRANK HERNANDEZ

FULL SERVICE HUNTER/JUMPER EQUESTRIAN FACILITY SPECIALIZING IN BOARDING, TRAINING, LESSONS, AND SHOWING. ALSO OFFERING THE OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO

TRAVEL INTERNATIONALLY FOR AN EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN EQUINE IMPORTS AND SALES.

North Facility: 35 - 12x12 matted stalls (oversize stalls available)200x70 heated indoor 225x125 outdoor full jump course heated viewing & club room extensive grass turnout fly system indoor wash racks washer & dryer

224.588.6225 [email protected] NORTH: 34830 Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL 60031 SOUTH: 11895 NW 86th Street. Ocala, FL 34482

South Facility: 15 - 12x12 matted stalls350x125 outdoorfull jump course3 large grass turnoutsindoor & outdoor wash rackslocated at the end of a quiet, secluded cul-de-sac 1 mile from HITS Ocala

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A Huge Thank You to Mary Morrison and Everyone at Ivy Gate Farm Cristin, Jamie, and JJ, as well as a special thanks to Jenny Karazissis. We are so lucky to have someone as talented as you riding our horses.

Success is definitely a team effort!

Ivy Gate Farm San Juan Capistrano, California 949.443.1903 www.IvyGateFarm.com

Congratulations Briana Sukert on an incredible year.


Connecting the adult amateur

equestrian community. AdultAmmyStrong.com

Sani-Care. For Those Who Care.

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Accepting Consignments

HUNTERS JUMPERS EQUITATION PONIES

9Jamie Terhune 919-215-1551

Team Goddard South OCALA, FLORIDA

www.streamhorsetv.comCalendar of Horse Show Live Streams

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USEF GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPION HORSE OF THE YEAR PONY HUNTER, DREAMLAND, AT THE DEVON HORSE SHOW (PA). DREAMLAND IS OWNED BY LINDA EVANS, WHO BRED HIM AND HAS TRAINED HIM SINCE BIRTH. PHOTO ORION FARM.

ON THE COVER: RYAN PEDIGO WITH A HOMEBRED FOAL AT PEDIGO FARMS, A EUROPEAN STYLE BREEDING FARM OF HANOVERIAN SPORTHORSES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. PHOTO KATE HOULIHAN PHOTOGRAPHY.

THIS MONTHS FEATURES:38 RANSOME ROMBAUER'S MINI MANSION

56 LESLIE STEELE IN AFRICA

68 EQUESTRIAN ARTIST JULIE FERRIS

74 IVY GATE FARM LAYERS THE FUNDAMENTALS

80 COVER STORY: RYAN PEDIGO

90 PONY LANE FARM IS BREEDING THEIR FUTURE

94 THE BEST RIBBONS ARENT ALWAYS BLUE

EDITORS NOTE: I am so proud to introduce to you the first ever all glossy edition of The Plaid Horse Magazine! Beginning with this issue, every Plaid

Horse will be all glossy from here on out. The fourteenth year of The Plaid Horse promises to be the best yet with expanded coverage, distribution, online content, and merchandise. Subscribe today at theplaidhorse.com! PIPER KLEMM, PHD

CONTACT THE PLAID HORSE: WRITE Piper Klemm, Ph.D., 14 Mechanic Street, Canton, New York 13617 CALL: 541-905-0192 EMAIL: [email protected] FACEBOOK facebook.com/theplaidhorsemag TWITTER @PlaidHorseMag twitter.com/PlaidHorseMag INSTAGRAM @theplaidhorsemag instagram.com/theplaidhorsemag PINTEREST: pinterest.com/theplaidhorse GOOGLE + The Plaid Horse Mag TUMBLR: theplaidhorsemag.tumblr.com ISSUU: issuu.com/theplaidhorsemag

PIPER WITH HER ELIGIBLE GREEN LARGE PONY

ICE CREAM PANCAKE AT STONEWALL FARM IN

IXONIA, WISCONSIN. PHOTO ADAM HILL.

LINDA EVANS KIM FERRO413-530-9685 [email protected] Wellington, Florida

USEF National Horse of the Year Overall Grand Pony Champion

USEF Large Pony National ChampionAPH Grand National Champion

Silver Stirrup National Champion

Holiday and Horses Circuit Champion (FL)

WCHR Classic Champion (WEF)ESP Spring Circuit Champion (FL)

Lake Placid Grand Pony Champion (NY)

SFHJA Series Finale Grand Pony Hunter Champion

SFHJA Year End

Grand Pony Hunter ChampionSFHJA Year End

Large Pony ChampionESP Year End

Large Pony Hunter Champion

Orion Farm Congratulates Dreamland!

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Have You Seen Stanley? #TPHStanleySightings

1. EQUUS TACK, WILSONVILLE, OR. 2. HITS HORSE SHOWS, THERMAL, CA. 3. VERMONT PONIES, WATERBURY, VT. 4. THE PLAID HORSE, CANTON, NY. 5. SHOWPLACE PRODUCTIONS WINTER SERIES AT LEDGES, ROSCOE, IL. 6. BRIAR FIELD FARM, MOORESVILLE, NC. 7. SUGARBROOK FARM, FLORAL CITY, FL. 8. PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER, WELLINGTON, FL. 9. OTTERBEIN UNIVERSITY, WESTERVILLE, OH. 10. UNITED STATES EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION, LEXINGTON, KY.

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The Plaid Horse Polls 100 Equestrians:

Would you rather jump a

Swedish Oxer 33% Liverpool 13% Standard Oxer 44% Vertical 10%

Would you rather have a Corgi or a Jack Russell Terrier?

68% 32%

product of the monthTraveling to horse shows, dirt, sun, and stress dont help my already dry skin So I started using the Kiehls Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing mask to draw out oil and dirt twice a week. Besides feeling fresher, my skin is also soothed by the oatmeal and aloe vera in the formula.

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1993 16.1h Rhinelander Stallion He passes on his exceptional attitude, beauty and ability

See our website for breeding specials

Quick Shine Yearling

High Shine 3 year old

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He is still sound at the age of 23. In 2011 & 2012 he was the oldest horse to compete in the USHJA Hunter Derby Finals.

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Flying Diamond Gypsy Prince, Section B Welsh Stallion, RPSI, Weser-Ems and CSHA Approved

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Sire of Devon Best Young Pony winner, Julia, Zone 3 Hunter Pony Breeding 2 year old Champion, Papillion, Multi Champion, Somermist MacCallan to name a few. Monarch get are just starting to enter the performance ring. They are proving themselves to be beautiful, athletic and great thinking invdividuals.

MONARCH WILL STAND THE 2016 SEASON AT VENTURE STABLES. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GIVE US A CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

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Halfway through the 2015 Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Final - West, 17-year-old Ransome Rombauer could have been doing a lot of things to prepare for the final two phases of the competition. But instead of resting or studying handy turns on the evening of September 19th, she was on the phone, deep in the familiar process of rescuing a miniature horse from a kill pen in Texas.

RANSOME ROMBAUERS MINI MANSION:HOW THIS YOUNG RIDER IS SAVING THE LIVES OF TINY HORSES IN A VERY BIG WAY

BY ERIN GILMOREBELOW LEFT: ROMBAUER WINNING THE 2015 PLATINUM

PERFORMANCE/USEF SHOW JUMPING TALENT SEARCH FINALS

WEST. PHOTO MCCOOL PHOTOGRAPHY. BELOW AND TO

THE RIGHT: RANSOME'S RESCUE MINI FAMILY: AMANDA,

CHOW MEIN, AND RANGER. PHOTO ERIN GILMORE.

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Rombauer went on to win the Talent Search Finals-West the next day aboard Alexis Graves Lalonde, scoring a 90.0 in Phase III and outriding the top four competitors in a high-pressure horse swap in Phase IV.

And if she were like most talented riders her age, that would be enough. Riding to ribbons and winning an equitation final takes total dedication, and for Rombauer, who trains with Daniel Ighani with equitation coaching from Karen Healey, capturing the Talent Search Final was a major year end goal.

But the equitation and jumper rings are all but forgotten when Rombauer stands in a pasture in her hometown of Napa, California, surrounded by a small herd of miniature horses sporting fuzzy winter coats. Now that the A-circuit show season is over, Rombauer will have more time to spend with her other eight horses, all who stand under 7 hands tall, at what Rombauer and her mother Laura have named the Mini Mansion.

Ive always had a soft spot for the sick and ugly, Rombauer jokes, although theres nothing ugly or sick about Miu Miu, Ranger, Amanda, Chow Mein or any of Rombauers other minis who crowd around her when she opens the gate to their pasture.

BIG PERSONALITIESRombauers soft spot is for all animals, and

when she discovered the influx of miniature horses that are abandoned or turn up at Texas kill pens, she couldnt turn away.

Miu Miu, a grey pinto filly, was Rombauers first mini. Considered unsuitable for showing due to front legs that turn out and an underbite, she was neglected in a crowded pen, and was mostly feral when Rombauer found her.

You wouldnt know it to look at six-year-

old Miu Miu now; she stands quietly while Rombauer drapes a driving harness over her back and attaches a small driving cart with familiar routine. Even during the height of show season, Rombauer works with all of her minis with Parelli-based horsemanship and groundwork. They come to her with big personalities, so big sometimes that, if they were a big horse and they had these personalities, people wouldnt want them! Rombauer notes.

But when 35-inch Ranger offers to rear on command, that big personality shines. The 9-year-old liver chestnut gelding came to Rombauer as a package deal. He was a stallion when she found him and Amanda living in a claustrophobic residential backyard with owners who wanted to unload their expensive pets. Amanda had a 6-month-old filly by her side and was in foal again by Ranger.

Soon after Rombauer brought the family home, Amanda gave birth to tiny Chow Mein, a filly that weighed just 25 pounds at birth. Now seven months old, Chow Mein is halter trained and can lie down on command.

Rombauer placed Amandas filly (Bambi) with trainer Julia Nagler of Kenilworth Stables, where shes now the mascot of her barn. Several other junior riders have adopted their own minis since learning of Rombauers herd, and through that awareness, Rombauer hopes that even more riders will open their barns to minis that need safe homes.

A lot of people with show barns or barns at home have the room to give a mini a home, too, she says. Having minis has made me a lot more patient. I love being hands-on with them, and managing them on my own. The whole process is more hands-on than the show horses.

Shes become a de-facto expert about


the kill pen process and has faced the heartbreaking setting of an auction filled with unwanted horses, a nearly-unbearable scene for most adults, much less a horse-loving teenager. Rombauer notes that kill buyers will often purchase up to 20 horses and then try to sell them back to rescues that will pay more and save them a drive to Mexico. Even some kill buyers would rather not take truckloads of horses to cross-border slaughterhouses.

Its hard, Rombauer admits when asked how she copes with a reality for so many horses that is the polar opposite to the life of her show horses. But each mini she can rescue is a bright spot, and, she hopes, another reason for someone else to follow her lead.

Social media is helping that awareness in spades. Her own social media feeds, and especially the Instagram accounts dedicated to her minis (@the.8.mini.jumps, @tex_the_rescue) are bringing more and more A-circuit riders to rescue. Questions about her minis and the rescue process pop up nearly every day, and Rombauer answers every single question.

NO TIME TO WAITThe mini that caught her eye mid-Talent

Search Finals was a sad and skinny example of neglect when his photo came up on the Kaufman Kill Pens Facebook page. Kaufman Kill Pen is a last stop in Texas for unwanted horses, but it shows mercy by posting photos of the horses approaching their kill buy deadline to give them one last chance at being bailed out by a sympathetic rescuer. Rombauer constantly scans the page for minis that have less of a chance than most.

There were a lot of minis posted that weekend that got bailed out, but Tex was still

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there, she says. He was literally skin and bones and had terrible dental issues. On top of that he was stud and not exactly the best-looking mini and he was tall. I knew he wouldnt make it.

And Rombauer knew, horse show day or not, there was no time to wait. In between the final round and ride off of the USEF Final, she arranged quarantine and shipping for Tex. In order to earn the health papers necessary to cross state lines, virtually all horses rescued from kill pens must spend 30-days in quarantine, and after Tex served his time, he was shipped directly to UC Davis to be treated for his dental issues.

A healthier, fatter, and gelded Tex is now groomed with his forelock neatly braided as he adjusts to his new home with Rombauers other minis in Napa. He surprised Rombauer with his sweet, gentle personality, and as she talks about him, he reaches his nose up to Rombauers hips to search her pockets for treats.

Do they know how lucky they have it, this herd of minis that spend their days next to the leafed rows of a vineyard in the gorgeous Northern California wine country? Rombauer thinks so.

They just become so good here, so gentle and calm, she says. I think they know that theyre ok now.

As they become comfortable with their new, idyllic setting, their fear goes away and they put their trust in their teenage owner.

Next year, Rombauer she plans to compete with Miu Miu in driving, and wants to show off Ranger in conformation classes. Over the summer, she brought her herd to the Pacific Sporthorse Selection auction and gave a demonstration in driving and in hand jumping.

No matter their size, Rombauer believes that all horses deserve a second chance at life. While shes got her eye on more big riding goals in 2016, Rombauers group of minis are living proof of goals that have already been met. The herd at Mini Mansion is an example of what can happen when a young rider becomes a compassionate horsewoman.

RANSOME HAS TRAINED HER MINIS EVERYTHING FROM DRIVING TO TRICKS.

PHOTO ERIN GILMORE.


RANSOME AND HER FIRST MINI

MUI MUI OUT FOR A DRIVE.

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CONGRATULATIONS to Mandy Porter for winning

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48 THE PLAID HORSEPLEASE JOIN US FOR THE SHOWPLACE

SPRING SPECTACULAR SERIES

USEF Premiere Rated 5 Star Hunter & Jumper Competition

JUNE 7 - 26, 2016

at the beautifulLAMPLIGHT EQUESTRIAN CENTER

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theplaidhorse.com January/February 2016 49 PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE SHOWPLACE

SUMMER SPECTACULAR SERIES

USEF Premiere Rated 4 Star Hunter & Jumper Competition

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BRANDI CYRUSSTYLE NATIVE

Happy New Year everyone! Were kicking off 2016 with a lot of great items that can be transitioned right from the barn and into your everyday lifestyle. I know for me, Im always running straight to the grocery store or out to lunch after my morning rides and its nice to wear something that is athletic enough to ride in AND cute enough to wear around our non-horsey friends!

OUTFIT #1: WHAT IM WEARING:

Le Fash shirt, $187-215 (lefashny.com)

Equine Couture breeches, $62-89 (statelinetack.com)

Mango Bay Designs belt, $12-22 (mangobaydesign.com)

PHOTOS BY TAUSHA DICKINSON


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This is a great casual riding shirt that is cute enough to be worn out to wherever you have to go after riding. I love the subtle plaid detail on the cuffs and collar. Layering the gray cashmere sweater over creates a polished look, and without it you get a funkier style that shows off the teal panels on the shirt. I kept the blue tone theme and paired this with navy breeches - I always love the contrast of navy and gray together. The Mango Bay belt I have on is super cute and comes in SO many different fun patterns and colors. I stuck with a quiet and neutral belt for this look to keep this outfit a little more contemporary.

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BRANDI CYRUS

OUTFIT #2: WHAT IM WEARING:

Welsh Wear sweater, $60 (welshwear.com)

C & C Hardware jewelry, prices vary- each piece is custom (facebook.com/candchardware)

For look two weve got another extremely versatile piece with this Welsh Wear sweater. Its soft and comfortable and I love this jewel tone shade of deep turquoise. Its a perfect top to layer over a riding shirt or even to wear on its own like I do here. This can easily be transitioned from barn wear to street wear, and it comes in several different colors. The jewelry Im wearing is from a really cool company that makes one of a kind pieces using vintage pieces and genuine stones and leather. These statement pieces make for some really cool equestrian inspired designs!

55 THE PLAID HORSE Reserve Champion Ransome Rombauer 2015 USHJA Emerging Athlete Program

National Finals

CONGRATULATIONS

Champion & High Point Rider IEA National FinalsReserve Champion CPHA Foundation Medal FinalsChampion USEF Talent Search Medal Finals West

8th Place WIHS Equitation Medal FinalReserve Champion USHJA EAP National Finals

Reserve Champion USEF Zone 10 Equitation 15-17Reserve Champion PCHA Equitation 15-17

Your hard work, dedication & true passion for all things

equine have paid off.

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!Love, Mom & DadPHOTOS TRICIA BOOKER/USHJA ARCHIVES.

56 THE PLAID HORSE

Twenty-five years ago Julie Calder (nee Taylor) won the New England Junior Medal Final on what was one of the most well-known equitation horses of the time, Catch of the Day or Tuna. Winning the New England Medal was the highlight of Calders successful junior career.

This year, Calder came all the way from Wyoming, where she now resides, to the New England Finals to compete in the 40th Anniversary Alumni class. All winners and second place finishers in the New England Junior and Adult Medal Finals since the shows inception were invited to participate in the class, held on October 15 at Eastern States Exposition (Springfield, Mass.). Forty-two riders competed.

While she hadnt done an equitation class in years, Calder does three-day eventing. She trains at

Flying W Stables in Wilson when shes not at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, where she works as Director of Marketing or spending time with her husband and two young daughters. I was practicing trot jumps and roll back turns all summer, she said. My event horse was a very good sport about it.

Calder rode with Fran and Joe Dotoli as a junior; this time it was their daughter Annie Dotoli training her. Calder and Annie Dotoli showed together as juniors and have remained best friends throughout the years, which made coming to do the class extra special for both of them.

After flying to Boston, Calder had a lesson with Dotoli (who also competed) the day before the class, and then competed on a horse loaned to her by Dotoli and her husband, Aster Pieters. Calder was thrilled to finish sixth in the class. When I heard my scores I was in total disbelief, she said.

25 Years Later, No Time Had Passed


The horse Annie Dotoli mounted Calder on was Van Zandt, who coincidentally looked very much like Tuna just a few years older without the dapples. Van Zandt was such a great horse to ride and I cant thank Annie and Aster enough for putting me on him, Calder said.

When she stood at the in-gate ready to go in for her first round, Calder looked down and nearly felt like she was on Tuna again. Other people also found themselves doing a double-take. I had so many people coming up to me, trainers and people I used to show with, saying, it looked exactly like you and Tuna.

Participating in the class ended up being very emotional for Calder. Riding as a junior were some of the best years of my life. Those years in New England made me who I am today, she said. I got to see so many old friends these were the people I grew up with. Then I was on this horse that looked like my eq horse. It felt like no time had passed at all.

58 THE PLAID HORSE

Leslie Steele Learns Firsthand What it Means to Step In and Step Up to Do More for Others with Uryadis Village

BY ERIN GILMORE After countless early mornings, demanding rides, and a nearly never ending show season, its easy to hang boots up at the end of the year and declare oneself exhausted beyond reason. By late fall, no one feels the need for a vacation more than the dedicated professionals who work so hard week in and week out for a wall of ribbons hanging at the end of a barn.

But there is always more to do. And as California-based hunter/jumper trainer Leslie Steele learned this fall, theres a lot of good that the horse show world can do by looking outside the confines of its own small world, and stepping up.

Steele is one of many equestrians who have thrown their support behind the self-sustaining 501c3 organization called Uryadis Village in Ethiopia, Africa. International grand prix rider and trainer Jennifer Crooks of Sandpoint, Idaho, founded Uryadis Village out of a need to reconcile the highly privileged world of equestrian sport she was a part of, with the impoverished, desperate conditions that so many orphans face in underdeveloped countries.

Crooks extraordinary family of 14 children (ten of them adopted) includes three children adopted from Ethiopia, and in the process of those adoptions, her eyes were opened to the reality of life there. Knowing that she couldnt adopt every orphaned Ethiopian child, Crooks looked for a way to make a lasting impact, and Uryadis Village was born. At its center is an orphanage that was created to help the surrounding community grow and become self-sustainable through education, sustainable agriculture, and commerce programs.


Uryadis Village has another distinction it is 100% supported by funders within the hunter/jumper community.

Steele had already been involved with Uryadis Village for

about a year by serving on the Board of Directors and assisting with fundraising, but to dedicate herself even further, she knew that she needed to visit Ethiopia herself.

Its a big trip, and Lord knows Ive been traveling all year long already, and the last thing you want to do at the end of the year is get on a plane and get shots and take malaria pills, Steele said. But in order to be a representative of this organization I needed to know for myself how the Village worked, see the children, and really get involved.

Getting to Uryadis Village, which lies in Soddo, Ethiopia, is a seven-hour drive from the closest airport at Addis. The distance is not actually so long, but with rough roads and stopping to navigate around grazing livestock, the drive becomes a journey. Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, and for Steele, passing past mud huts and small children walking their animals for miles just to graze was the first of many eye-openers during the week.

Once she arrived at Uryadis Village, Steele saw firsthand the kind of work that Crooks has dedicated herself to and jumped right in.

We talked about sustainable agriculture, about layering food so that as one plant is cut another one develops. We walked the property at Soddo surveying the land, figuring out where new buildings would go. We met new babies who had come from another orphanage that was shut down, Steele described about the week. It was a working vacation and it was nice to get to know really what I was involved in firsthand. This orphanage is giving people the ability to go to school, have food, clean water and sanitation, the things we just take for granted.

As Uryadis Village grows and becomes a community that can sustain itself (fundraising is part of the plan, but sustainability is the end goal), Steele hopes that more equestrians will step up, and step in to help make the community even stronger.

Countless Ethiopian children deal with the kind of life or death concerns that put ribbon chasing into sharp perspective, and for Steele, a dose of that perspective gave her new energy to carry on.

Sometimes Im overwhelmed in my own world, but I came home feeling like, just wow. I dont have to worry about flushing the toilet and drinking water. It was eye opening, she said. This can be something that people can be as little or as much involved in as they want. But all of the support is coming from the hunter/jumper community. If you want to be involved, get involved.

60 THE PLAID HORSE

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TimelineWhere did your

FOUR-HORNED FIRST CENTURY BCE ROMAN SADDLE. PHOTO MATTHIAS KABEL, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

~4000 BCE: Horse riding is first documented throughout the world

700 BCE: To increase efficiency in battle, cavalry in the Assyrian army are portrayed with pads held on by a girth and breast straps.

100 BCE: The Roman Army rides into battle on saddles with solid trees. These raise riders up off of the horses back, distributing weight and reducing pressure for long rides during and in between wars.

200 CE: The stirrup-like leather straps to place a riders toe in are documented in India.

302 CE: Paired, traditional stirrups are found in representations from the Jin Dynasty in China.

477 CE: The stirrup is widespread in China and starts to spread to Europe.

Middle Ages: Saddles become stronger and seats deeper to accommodate knights in battle.

THE GREEN KNIGHT PREPARING FOR BATTLE, ILLUSTRATION BY N. C. WYETH FOR THE BOY'S KING ARTHUR, ILLUSTRATION COURTESY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

CARNELIAN SEAL DEPICTING EARLY STIRRUP, CIRCA AD 150, BRITISH MUSEUM. PHOTO COURTESY DAVE PAPE, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.


saddle come from? 1700s: As fox hunting increases in popularity, saddles needed to allow for more movement. Franois Robinchon de la Gurinire, a French riding master, lowers both the pommel and cantle for more range of motion. This marked the first division from saddle to English and Western separate saddles.

Early 1900s: Captain Federico Caprilli meets a need for a forward seat position to jump higher fences and gallop faster by placing the flap at an angle

1955: Beval Established and embarks work on the original Gladstone saddle

1975: Dover Saddlery founded by Jim and David Powers

1978: Ricks Saddle Shop opens in Englishtown, NJ

1998: CWD starts retailing saddles

2015: The Plaid Horse teams up with Wilkers to make the most fashionable saddle accessory- The Plaid Horse Baby Pad

PORTRAIT OF FRANOIS ROBICHON DE LA GURINIRE. IMAGE COURTESY CONVERSANO ISABELLA, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

64 THE PLAID HORSE

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Its Time To Reform The Way Hunters Are JudgedBy Jay Duke Times change, sport changes, and if you are going to stay relevant in todays fast-paced world of social media, you better make sure that your industry is not just current, but ahead of the curve. It is extremely difficult for even hunter fan extremists to make the argument that their sport is current, has made the necessary changes to build the industry, and engages fans and media. In a previous text* regarding the hunter derbies, I noted there have been some positives. I acknowledged the efforts, and pointed out the shortcomings. Just as the FEI is looking at adjusting the Nations Cup format in order to stay relevant, I believe that it is long overdue that we reform the way hunters are judged.

At this point, 50% of you are agreeing with me, and the other 50% do not. For the latter group, keep reading and let me illustrate my position. Under the current format, a $500,000 Thoroughbred who jumps a 9 out of 10 and has a

66 THE PLAID HORSE

near flawless round but lightly taps a jump that comes down will finish behind a $5,000 Morgan/Quarter Horse cross that chips in to four fences and adds a step down every line. Before you mention the rail, try this example; a million dollar warmblood ridden by Kelley Farmer who jumps a 10 but has a minor slip that a judge mistakenly classifies as a trot step through a turn in wet conditions will lose to a 14.3-hand Anglo-Arab who jumps a 5, rubs every jump, and leaves out a stride in a line. Yes, these are extreme examples; that is the point, but they are also the way hunters are currently judged. I could mention many more examples, but my point is made; the current parameters for judging hunter rounds are unacceptable.

Here are some ideas on how to fix the issue. The mystery and secrecy of scoring hunters is the problem, so I want see all of that disappear. As I mentioned in the derby blog, announcing the score is essential. There is NO viable argument for not doing so, and something the derbies have gotten right. Transparency is the most important key to making the sport watchable and understandable to viewers.

Right now the quality of the horse, expertise of the ride, and the mistakes are all blended into one score. There needs to be an artistic score and a technical score. In the spirit of simplicity

and understanding, making each of these scores out of 50 is logical. Im sure there are a hundred different opinions on if one of these should be more heavily weighted than the other. I will stick to the 50/50, as I have always advocated that show jumping is a team sport and both horse and rider are equally important. I know that judges have different opinions on which is more important, lets take that objectivity away and create more consistent scoring. This is beneficial all-around; it also would reduce the criticism of the judging.

Judges have different values for errors, such as a late lead change, a rub, a short distance. Under the technical score, lets put numbers to the errors.

Light rub -1Hard rub -2Rail -4Mildly short or long distance -1Short or long distance -2Very short or long distance -4Dangerous distance -8Leg hang -8Late lead change -2Missed lead change -5Lead swap on approach -2

These are my suggestions for technical scoring, once again I know everyone will have their own opinion and potentially there could be more categories, but I feel these are reasonable numbers and would be happy to see a system close to the one above.

For the artistic score, this should be based on the quality of the horse and the ride, and with a maximum score of 50. Ideally the best horse with the least errors will be the winner of the class. I admittedly am not a hunter judge, but I have been involved with the sport at all levels of competition as a competitor and coach. I believe that this type of reform will dramatically change the hunter world for the better. It will create better riders, make it simpler and less controversial for the judges, and it will make the sport much easier to understand for all and more entertaining to watch.

Jay Duke's accomplishments training in the hunter ring include training Mindful (Grappa), currently the top High Performance Hunter and Derby Horse in North America, as well as USEF Horse of the Year winners King David and Caymus. As a rider, he is a Canadian Equestrian Team member and has won 12 International Grand Prix classes, including a Leading Rider title at the Spruce Meadows North American Championships. As a coach, he has brought two riders to medal winning performances at NAYRC.

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68 THE PLAID HORSE

Twenty years ago, Julie Ferris was just a little girl doodling horses.

I just never grew out of that phase, Ferris, 26, laughed.

But these days, she does a little more than doodle. She now runs her own equestrian art business, where she specializes in oil painting. Her business is built on an equal ratio of commission pieces, and her own private collection. In September 2015, she participated in her first solo exhibit which included a body of ten works titled EQ: The Aesthetic Response.

Ferris, who grew up in Atlanta, Ga., but now resides in Savannah, is a graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where she majored in painting and minored in equine studies. In college, she spent a lot of time studying the horse in art, and came to the conclusion that while horses have been portrayed artistically for thousands of years, they havent always appeared in a position that is flattering to them.

I strive to portray the horse in art in a way that is accurate to the beauty and essence of who they are, said Ferris. She says that her style naturally tends to gravitate towards a modern and contemporary feel, which she combines with classicism.

Her SCAD professors were influential in helping Ferris develop a specialty for her career.

SCAD allowed me to pursue painting horses. They liked that I had a passion, said Ferris,

who added that teachers in high school discouraged her from equestrian art, telling her that art schools dont want to see horses.

In her time there, she also was a member of their Intercollegiate Horse Show Association team. Many of the horses she rode while on the team now appear in her paintings.

And while shes happy to paint your pony, its not Ferris goal to be a pet portraitist. she wants the work she creates to appeal to art critics, and those educated about fine art.

Horses are so unique and such multi-faceted animalsmy fellow equestrians already understand that, Ferris said. But I also would also like to engage the non-equestrian with my work; in hopes

they might come to a higher respect and appreciation of the horse through my work, and see the horse as art, in art.

It is important to Ferris to portray each horse in their own unique light; revealing their personalities. Whether they are elegant, sophisticated, funny or quirky, Ferris said, I never tire of painting them. Meghan Blackburn

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Whoever said change is hard isnt riding at Lance Williamson Stables. Because a new assistant trainer started at the farm in December of 2015, and he has the kids and parents raving.

He is really a top level trainer, said Lillian Schaff, whose daughter Emma has ridden at Lance Williamson Stables for three years. The riders and the parents are really happy with him.

Fellow horse show mom, JoAnne Kelly agrees. The dynamic at the barn changed immediately for the better. Frank has a natural ability with children. During lessons, theyre having fun and smiling, but theyre still learning. He has that IT factor. Theyre striving to do well for him.

Hernandez, 58, has more than 30 years experience training hunter, jumper, and equitation athletesboth human and equine. He has spent the last seven years in TennesseeRossville, then Memphis, before relocating to LWS in Gurnee, Ill., just north of Chicago. Before Tennessee, where he was the trainer at Heritage Park Equestrian and his own Frank Hernandez Show Stables, Hernandez spent nearly 20 years in New Jersey.

But before New Jersey, Hernandez was riding in Miami, Fla., and that is where he met Lance Williamson, and began to work for him. Even though he eventually went off on his own after five or six years, Hernandez has worked and ridden with Williamson on and off throughout his career.

I followed his career from when he went to New Jersey, and then ran into him regionally when he went down to Tennessee. Those seven or eight years, I consistently tried to get him to come here. Hes good with kids, an excellent rider, and a great all around manager, said Williamson. I knew hed be a perfect fit for my group of students. And everyone likes himthe parents do, the kids do. And Ive got some young horses I need help bringing along.

Hernandez has a reputation for having what it takes to produce quality young riders, and horses. In the nineties, he worked with Louise Serio and Nona Garson to buy and sell hunters. Serio ended up purchasing Later That Night from Hernandez, and in 1994, rode him to

Frank Hernandez Brings

a Positive Dynamic to

Lance Williamson StablesBY MEGHAN BLACKBURN


JoAnne said that just in the short time that Hernandez has been teaching Emma, their whole family decided theyd like to attend more shows than they had the year before. Theyre also looking to buy or lease a pony.

We let Frank guide us now. Frank has goals and timelines for us, she said. Were putting our confidence into Frank and Lance to find us the right pony.

Lucky for the Kellys, Williamson and Hernandez have a successful track record of finding talented ponies. Take Chatterbox, for example. Hernandez bought him from Williamson, and under Hernandezs training in Memphis,

Chatterbox was the USEF small green pony hunter horse of the year in 2011.

The ponies have sort of been like finding a diamond in the rough, confessed Hernandez, who also trained Wish Upon A Star, the 2005 USEF medium green pony hunter reserve champion horse of the year. I would have never thought I could be that great with the ponies, but theyve proved me wrong!

This winter, while Williamson and his wife Lisa relocate with a group of students to Ocala, Hernandez will remain in Illinois with the rest of their clients. Theyll attend local schooling and A shows.

I had seven great years in Tennessee, Hernandez reflected. I met very nice people there; beautiful people. But I was missing something. I realized what I was missing was that East Coast feel. All the activity its a thrill. Twelve hour days; its like nothing. Its a marvelous feeling. It was emotional to leave Tennessee, but I know I made the right decision. Im excited to be here.

First Year Green Working Hunter champion at Capital Challenge (Md.), Pennsylvania National, and Washington International. On the flipside, Hernandez bought two horses from GarsonLoyalis and Royal Tea, and under his training, they both went on to be Zone 2 champions in the First Year Greens in 2002 and 2005, respectively.

It seems to be a forte of mine to make green horses into nice horses for their owners, Hernandez admitted.

Alongside Frank and Stacia Madden at Beacon

Hill, Hernandez helped train young riders for national equitation finals. In Memphis, he helped several students and their mounts advance from pre-childrens all the way through junior hunters in just one season.

He has a gift that he can get the message across with the right tone. Emma has seen results and progress since day one, said Lillian. In her daughters case, the message has helped her to better both her own riding, and her horses performance.

Ive had many compliments saying how my position has improved just since Frank has come to the farm, said Emma, 13. He helps me with my horse; hes given me a different perspective of how to shape him.

Emma Kelly, JoAnnes daughter, has only been with Lance Williamson Stables since June of 2015, and hopes to start showing in small pony hunters more frequently under Hernandezs tutelage.

I think hes a phenomenal trainer, and I really like him, Emma Kelly, 10, said. He will teach your lesson until you succeed with what youre doingwhether its flatting or jumping.

FRANK HERNANDEZ TRAINED WISH UPON A STAR TO THE USEF

MEDIUM GREEN PONY HUNTER HORSE OF THE YEAR IN 2005.

EMMA KELLY AND COWBOY CELEBRATE TOP RIBBONS IN SMALL

PONY HUNTERS AT LAMPLIGHT (ILL.). PHOTO COURTESY OF THE

KELLY FAMILY.

72 THE PLAID HORSE

Large Green Pony Hunter: Park Avenue Jordan Cobb and Park Avenue started on top of the Large Green Pony division and held it throughout the year with numerous championships throughout the year including all 4

weeks of GSWEC Winter Series, both weeks of Pin Oak Charity, Tyler 4, Brownland Spring, Germantown Charity, Brownland Summer, Texas Rose Classic, Southwest Fall, Britannia Farm Fall, Zone 7 Finals, and Final Chase. The pair also earned the Reserve Grand Green honors. Cobb recalled, When I first got Parker he was shortly off the boat from Germany, and we were trying to decide whether to show him as a 2014 green or wait a year. If he was special we would hold him back a year, and every time he walks into the ring he gives me no doubt that he is the special pony we were after. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this once in a lifetime pony and could not be more proud of what he has done so far. Photo: Intern Abby Albrecht

Small Junior Hunter, 16-17: Broadway Morgan Ward and Broadway claim Horse of The Year for the Small Older Junior hunters with an almost unbeatable year. After only knowing one another for a short time, they rose to the top of

the standings with numerous accolades such as: circuit champion HITS Ocala, top placings at Devon, winner of the WCHR 36 junior challenge, as well as reserve at Harrisburg. When I first got him he was always champion and reserve every time out. I started him the third or fourth week of Ocala and still ended up circuit champion. We have a bond. We both trust each other so much it's impressiveGetting horse of the year means a lot to me. For my last junior year with my own horse, it's a big accomplishment. Photo: Intern Dominique Gonzalez

Amateur Owner 3'3" 36 & Over: MTM Do Right Didi Mackenzie and MTM Do Right earned the A/O 33 36 & Over honors. The pair started off the year with championships at HITS Thermal and a circuit championship at the Texas High

Performance Series. They went on to earn championships at Country Heir and Kentucky Spring. The pair also rode to ribbons at Kentucky Summer, Bluegrass, Kentucky National, and Capital Challenge. They finished the year with double championship at Zone 7 Finals and Final Chase. Photo: Intern Jordan Cobb

High Amateur-Owner Jumpers: Qurint Hayley Waters kept it consistent with Qurint to claim the High Amateur-Owner Champion. Since the start of the 2015 year Hayley has put her best foot forward at HITS Ocala taking several first

places. At the Tryon Spring Horse Show she claimed first place in the U25 Grand Prix. One of her more recent successes was taking home the win in the Vetera XP Vaccines $250,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Prix at HITS-on-the-Hudson. She had an amazing year and she's a really special horse. I think we have a great partnership, and I am so fortunate to ride her. My biggest win this year was the $250,000 class at HITS in Saugerties, New York. It meant a lot to me because it was the class we had been preparing for all year and everything fell into place for Qurint and I that week. Photo: Intern Dominique Gonzalez

High Performance Working Hunter By Money Won & By Increment Chart: Mindful As rider Kelley Farmer will put it, Hes a winner, and he proves it every time we walk in the ring. Another Horse of the Year honor in the High Performance

(money won and increment) section is one of many accolades for the Kensel LLC's Mindful. Last year he earned the national High Performance and Derby Horse of the Year. Mindful started off the year with numerous championships at WEF before moving on to be champion at Kentucky Spring. The pair then headed to Devon where they earned the championship, and Kelley remarked, He is a very deserving horse. Being champion at Devon for two years in a row was very significant. The pair also earned the championship at Pennsylvania National for the second year in a row after claiming the reserve championship at Capital Challenge. The pair also picked up the reserve championship at Washington International and The National Horse Show. Mindful jumped to over $140,000 dollars this year with the help of an unmatched USHJA International Hunter Derby record. Mindful earned the top honors in nine out of 17 derbies this year and placed in six others, among them being the finals. Farmer said, We were second at derby finals, it was a nice class and good that we were second. He is a great horse and I'm very grateful for everything. Photo: Intern Olivia Schrager

By Interns Jordan Cobb, Mackenzie Shuman, Irene Elise Powlick, Dominique Gonzalez, Emma Dubinsky and Olivia Schrager

The Plaid Horse Congratulates All USEF Horses of the Year!

74 THE PLAID HORSE

Layering The Fundamentals Helps Ivy Gate Farm Produce Consistent Riders by Meghan Blackburn

Mary Morrisons Ivy Gate Farm enjoyed a successful 2015 season, with students winning in the local and USEF-rated divisions. Morrison, who has been training students for 35 years, keeps her program relatively small currently about 25 students; as such, she refers to Ivy Gate as a boutique farm.

Its very important to me to be able to specialize for each client and their goals. You want to try to meet everyone on their own playing field, said Morrison, of San Juan Capistrano, California.

The basis of Morrisons program is built on a process she calls layering. To her, that means teaching through a certain lesson or level until the student has mastered it; then moving on to new exercises or up to a new division.

I work on a lot of fundamentals and try to teach things in a sequential manner. I really try to put my riders in situations that are appropriate for their skill levels and will build their confidence, she said.

A highlight for the Ivy Gate Farm team this year was Briana Sukerts success in the 3'3" junior hunters. Although this was her first season showing at the height, Sukert ended it first and second in

both United States Hunter Jumper Association Zone 10 and the Pacific Coast Horse Show Association (17 and under) standings with horses Zapateada and Nonchalant, respectively. She also sits number 4 in the nation in her division with Zapateada and 14th with Louie.

Morrison has taught Briana, 14, since she started riding. With Marys guidance and positive

training, Briana was able to master the short stirrup division within the first year of her riding and has continued to move up a level or two every year from then on. Mary comes up with new lessons every week to make sure that all the riders are capable of performing skills that they will need in the future, said Stephanie Sukert, Brianas mother.

While Briana has been working with her mare Zapa for two years, she just got Nonchalant this June. The two quickly meshed, and racked up tricolor honors at many of the shows they attended, including a championship in junior hunter 3'3", 13 & under at Capital Challenge (MD). Jenny Karazissis has also showed the gelding, and helped coached Briana the last few years, which Morrison says has given Briana important added perspective.

Briana has been working a lot with the differences between the

horses, said Morrison. And they go completely differently. Its been really exciting to be successful with two different types of horses. It helps them to become strong all around riders.

The true test of any program or rider is the consistency. Thats what you strive for at different venues and in different environments, she continued. Shes consistent on both horses, and I believe that goes back to layering the fundamentals.

Briana, who both Morrison and Stephanie say is very focused, both in riding and scholastic life, is thrilled with how her riding has developed.

The success Ive had feels surreal. It has definitely been a team effort. Zapa, Louie, and I try our best, and Mary and the whole Ivy Gate Team do their best for training and keeping the horses in tip-top shape. I cant wait to see what the next year brings, Briana said.

Although Morrison believes wholeheartedly in the efficacy of her teams program, she noted that it always helps to have riders with supportive families, such as the Sukerts.

Ive been blessed to work with them, she said. I dont have the chance to do my job if I dont have someone who is interested in doing their job. The whole family understands the importance of work ethic, which breeds success.

And the most important thing to me is to have long term success with my riders.


PHOTOS: TOP CENTER JOHN ZAMBRANO,

TOP RIGHT & BELOW MCCOOL PHOTOGRAPHY.

76 THE PLAID HORSE

MANDY PORTER

JOIE GATLIN

TRISTAR

JH SPORTHORSES

SPORT HORSE LIFESTYLE

BLACK STAR EQUESTRIAN

CUSTOM SOLEA SCRIMS, PADS, CROPS...ETC.

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78 THE PLAID HORSE

Showplace Productions Ledges Winter SeriesLedges Sporting Horses & Show Grounds, Roscoe, IL, December 2015. 1. Laura and Savannah Reist. 2. Riley Malina. 3. Britta Stoeckel.

4. Emma Gahagan. 5. Olivia Galley. 6. Colby Hassfurther. PHOTOS ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.

1. 2.

3. 4.

5.

6.

6.


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80 THE PLAID HORSE

Ryan Pedigo is Breeding European Quality Hunters in California

Article by Meghan Blackburn Photography by Kate Houlihan

Ryan Pedigo cant wait to get in the ring in 2016. Hes put in a lot of hard work this past yearrelocating to Riverside, Calif., and setting a foundation for his threefold business, which is comprised of training and showing hunters, Pedigo Farms Riding School, and his breeding division, Ryan Pedigo Hanoverians.


I have buckled down and launched this program this past year. In 2016, Ill be on the road more. I want to show everybody this is what Ive been working on. Its happening. Its exciting, said Pedigo, who will debut four of his homebreds in the show ring this season.

But Ryan Pedigo Hanoverians really started as the result of an accomplished showing and training career which led Pedigo to a gelding named Wolfe WF (WellesleyMathilda). After extensive searching in the U.S. and Europe for a horse for his client Cindy Busby in 2008, Pedigo stumbled across a video of a horse in a field in Canada that gave him a great feeling.

He was super-duper green; not doing lead changes. But I called Cindy and said, Lets book a ticket; I found our horse, recalled Pedigo. From the beginning, the horse was a superstar.

Wolfe WF cleaned up in the 3'3" Performance Working Hunter and amateur divisions in Zone 10 and PCHA, and was ranked nationally in the top 10. Pedigo knew he was on to something. So he and Busby went back and bought Wolfes full sister, Waltzing Mathilda WF.

When I had the privilege of finding Wolfe WF, it was really clear to me want I wanted.

Since that fateful day more than seven years ago, Pedigo has been scrupulous about building a breeding business that offers a barn full of well-bred horses that are consistent. He believes his program is what many people would equate to the quality found when going horse shopping in Europe; except you dont have to go from barn to barn to barn looking at one or two horses.

I can pull 10 horses out, and they are all consistent. Theyre perfectly put together like little supermodels, he laughed. These horses are fabulous. I know I feel like Im biased because I bred them, but they really are!

His breeding division now includes four approved Hanoverian stallionsWellesley PF (World Cup IVEsplanade/Eichendorff), Sam Steele PF (Sherlock HolmesSPS Eskalade by Eklatant), Merlin PF (Matcho XSPS Eskalade by Eklatant), and Federalist (For PleasureSPS Eskalade by Eklatant) and a broodmare band of 14.

Hes able to consistently produce quality, he says, because hes in control. I have the old Hanoverian blood; the classic blood. Ive been able to control it. I literally have bought everything from that breeding; Wolfe and MathildaI own all of their siblings, their mother (the Elite mare Mathilda), and bought her three sisters. They are in my broodmare band.

The mares boast bloodlines from the likes of Barsoi, Woermann, Akzent I, Weltmeyer, Feiner Stern, Trapper, Matcho X, and World Cup IV. Starting with well-bred mares was critical in building Pedigos breeding program.

For the last 18 months, while juggling training and teaching, Pedigo has focused on building this breeding empire, and he is proud of it. Through the years, he has created four generations, and the hours of research hes done have given him the wisdom to carefully put together combinations in which the stallions complement each mare differently.

Its all about the mares, Pedigo said. I live by this rule in breeding. My broodmare band is the key component in producing

WOLFE WF WAS NOT ONLY A WILDLY SUCCESSFUL HUNTER THAT RYAN PEDIGO

TRAINED TO MANY PERFORMANCE HUNTER WINS ACROSS THE WESTERN US, BUT

HE WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR RYAN PEDIGO HANOVERIANS. PHOTO CAPTURED

MOMENT PHOTOGRAPHY.

82 THE PLAID HORSE

the ultimate performance horsewith consistency, movement, conformation, and ridability.

However, he will evaluate an outside mare for breeding to his stallions. He likes to work with potential breeding clients to establish their goal, during which they discuss the mares strengths and weaknesses. If he feels that their goal cannot be met by their own mare, Pedigo offers surrogate mares to do custom breeding using one of his mares embryos; in addition to outside in vitro sales by one of his stallions.

But I am selective, he said. These horses are a piece of me. I am careful where they go, and who they are with. This is my brand. Every horse, foal and or embryo sold is a reflection of my program, and breeding responsibly, and for excellence is a must.

As Pedigo will tell you, horses are in his DNA. Growing up on a farm, he was involved in the day-to-day activities, and showed curiosity early on for breeding. As an astute 10-year-old boy, he foaled his first mare. His professional careerduring which he has trained and showed many successful hunters to notable wins, spanned 18 years with Ron Kennedy in Chino Hills, Calif., before Kennedy decided to retire and sell the farm.

This led Pedigo to where he is now in Riverside, based on a large farm that he gratefully leases from Allison Reynolds. Even though its

a bit out of Orange County, Pedigo says he chose this property for his horses wellbeing. All of his clients happily followed him.

This is the only place that has open area and pastures for turnouts, and I see how happy they are, he said. The young horses enjoy a lot of time outside, but so do the show horses. In addition to the ample paddock space, the farm boasts three custom barns, a pond, and a derby field.

Last October he hosted an American Hanoverian Society inspection at his farm. He presented seven mares, as well as foals. I had the Top Scoring Hanoverian mare Winona PF, Pedigo noted proudly. The Champion Filly Wisteria PF, Yearling Futurity Champion Filly Wendeleen PF, all by Wellesley PF.

Pedigo has had a vision since day one. My goal is to produce superstar, beautiful moving, jumping, amateur-friendly horses. These are horses that make your job easier. And they are easy on themselves.

So while hes really enthusiastic about 2016, he feels the long term future is also bright.

My love is seeing these horses succeed, Pedigo said. I know there will come a day, and I will be at a horse show, and I will see my horses in the ring. I will see other people riding them and winning on them. That day will not be that far away.


CAPTURED MOMENT PHOTOGRAPHY.

84 THE PLAID HORSE

[email protected] www.andrewryback.com (224) 318-5445

Zebra stallion - Savanna Private Reserve, South Africa.


Stallions of the Las Vegas National Horse Show, Nevada, November 18-22, 2015. 1. Everado Hegewisch Diaz Infante rides the 11 year old stallion Caspar at the Las Vegas National Horse Show. 2. Top American stallion, Flexible, still jumps at the spry age of 19. 3. Peter Lutz rode Robin de Ponthual to the win in the $100,000 Grand Prix of Las Vegas. 4. Margie Engle and her top ride and stallion, Royce, jump in the $30,000 Welcome Speed Classic. 5. Zanzibar jumps in the $30,000 Speed class to qualify for the feature event. PHOTOS IRENE POWLICK.

1. 2.

3.

4. 5.

86 THE PLAID HORSE

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88 THE PLAID HORSE

THE PLAID HORSE: Piper Klemm PhD LLC (Publisher

of The Plaid Horse) is not responsible for obtaining per-

mission to use any photographs for either advertising or

non-advertising use. All responsibility and liability regard-

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Piper Klemm PhD LLC will not be responsible for any typographical, production, or ad copy errors,

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Plaid Horse) 2015 Piper Klemm PhD LLC.


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PhotoPlay: Andrew Ryback PhotographySpot the differences between Anika Pirkle's winning rounds at Showplace Productions Spring Spectacular at the Lamplight Equestrian Center (Wayne, IL). Can you find at least ten differences?

90 THE PLAID HORSE

Any seasoned show competitor will be familiar with the name Pony Lane Farm. From Madeline and Kelsey Thatcher rising through the junior divisions to the success of Charlie Jayne with Chill RZ and Athena, the name is synonymous with success in the show ring. It began with matriarch Maura Thatcher, who has been involved in the horse industry for decades. While riding in the amateur-owner hunters, she raised her two daughters to be as horse loving and involved as she, and as time passed, Pony Lane Farm has expanded from a show barn to become a training and breeding farm for top sport horses.

Originally founded in South Jordan, Utah, Pony Lane Farm now calls Bluffdale, Utah home. Maura has patiently built up the string of horses for her daughters, updated facilities, and partnered with top professionals to produce a program she is proud of.

The breeding division has really picked up within the last five years. With more than a dozen horses five or under, theres a lot of young blood in the herd. The growing facility houses a vet tech and farrier, in addition to Mauras home, and Dr. Wade Simper, the veterinarian used, always has access, especially during foaling season. At the farm, Michael Knight trains and supervises the upbringing of the young horses. He has been working for the Thatchers for five years, and his duties continue to grow with each year. The babies all grow up together, but they each have their own training program, evident in the varying training programs within horses of the same age.

Pony Lane Farm Is Breeding Their Future Story & Photos by Irene Elise Powlick

EARLY APPLAUSE AND

MADELINE THATCHER

SHARE A QUIET MOMENT

WHILE WAITING FOR

THEIR BLUE RIBBON IN

THE AMATEUR-OWNER

HUNTERS 3'3".

BELOW: MICHAEL KNIGHT

SETS UP TO DO WORK

ON THE LONG LINE WITH

JULIETTE (DULF VAN DEM

BISSCHOP--NICOLETTE),

AN IMPORTANT PART OF

TRAINING FOR PONY LANE

FARM HORSES.


When horses are bought for Pony Lane, Maura always looks for a good pedigree, especially in a mare. Mares are usually able to have a second job. When a mare is performing well, Maura will often give her a couple of years off to breed, and in return, she gets a high quality foal. It is great to breed these high quality mares. I look forward to seeing where they can go in this sport, and hopefully with my girls.

Pony Lane Farm owns horses with the Jaynes and the Towells for both of the Thatcher girls, and they also have stallions in the performance ring with each. Maura breeds her mares mostly to her own stallions. Right now the farm stands Klotaire du Moulin (VoltaireQualite de Lisle), Dulf Van Dem Bisschop (HeartbreakerSecret Love Wonderland), and 2012 U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Team alternate Chill RZ (Chellano ZNina R). However, she has also bred to stallions such as Emerald, Flexible, and Chaqui Z.

And while the breeding is important, the horses health and wellbeing comes before everything else. Mares are turned out every day, and, depending on their weight, are also exercised by using equine treadmill. During foaling season, they are all equipped with a foal monitor, which alerts everyone when a mares water breaks and contractions start, and the mares stalls are also equipped with cameras to monitor regularly during foaling time.

As her experience with different mares has grown, Maura is often able to predict when a mare will drop her foal. Additionally, all of the mares bred are approved to their respective breed registrations, and all foals are registered to either the North American Studbook for Selle Francais or the North American Belgian Warmblood Studbook.

Along with the breeding, the Utah location also houses the Pony Lane Farm rehabilitation program. When a Pony Lane horse is injured, it is shipped back to Utah, and enjoys a relaxing rehab program under the watchful eyes of Maura, Dr. Simper, and Knight. To restore the health of the competition horses, Theraplate technology, an equine treadmill, and a cold water spa are all essential to the recovery. Maura offers rehabilitation programs to outside horses, and also opens her facility and equipment to those who would prefer to trailer in, by appointment. With the use of a good training program and the right technology, performance horses can be back on top, and can go back to showing on the circuit.

With success in many different equine ventures, Pony Lane Farm looks forward to the development of their foals coming from their program to continue it. My goal has been to produce the highest quality performance horse, and to, eventually, see my daughters ride and be successful with them, Maura said. And when asked, she couldnt come up with, really, any competition highlights, instead, insisting the journey and the horses she gets to work with have always been the highlight. It has been amazing to watch these horses. To be able to retire [Grand Prix mare] Athena at the top of her game, instead of the bottom, that has been so fun and important.

Pony Lane Farm offers sales of all ages and experience, limited boarding at their Utah location, rehabilitation services, and breeding to their stallions. For more information on Pony Lane Farm visit their website at ponylanefarm.com or call (801) 597-6936.

LEFT: JASPER (EMERALD--A MILLION REASONS) ENJOYS A DAY OFF IN HIS RUN ON A

SNOWY UTAH DAY IN DECEMBER; JULIETTE WORKS ON THE LONG LINE, OVERSEEN BY

MAURA THATCHER; AFTER A SUCCESSFUL SHOW CAREER WITH BOTH THATCHER GIRLS,

FRANKLY MY DEAR, TOP PONY HUNTER, ENJOYS RETIREMENT AT PONY LANE FARM.

92 THE PLAID HORSE

STONEWALL FARM Congratulates

Emily Elek 920-889-0028 [email protected] IXONIA, WISCONSIN

PHOTOS JILL HECHTMAN & ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.

Emy Lucibello on the lease of Stonewall Eleanor

Olivia Galley on the lease of Captain Underpants

Ava Lucibello on the lease of Stonewall Nimbus

Emma Hechtman on the lease of Sir Dragon


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94 THE PLAID HORSE

By Lauren Davis I finished seventh in my adult medal (aka "Cougar Medal") this year in our Greater San Diego Hunter Jumper Association Championship Show. Of course Id wanted to win or at least come home with a tri-color. I spent a great deal of time visualizing my perfect round and putting any negative thoughts out of my mind leading up to my class. I put myself through some serious medal prep boot camp prior to the show and for once, I finally felt competitive for my final.

The second I had a stop in the first round of my medal final, I was crushed. I saw my dream of a tri-color ribbon disappear. No matter how much you prepare, and despite your positive mindset, the ride does not always play out like you envision.

Despite my career in the heart of the industry, as a sales manager for EquiFit, Inc., I cannot afford my own packing slave of a horse nor do I always have the time put in all the hours of riding Id like, since I travel roughly nine months out of the year. I am blessed to work beside the best of the best in this crazy sport that so many of us are infected with. If I cant ride every day (or week), at least I can watch and learn from industry professionals while I am in the field. As

an adult amateur working to support my riding habit, I have found it is inevitable to succumb to the pressure I put on myself at times. How much am I spending on horse shows? Can I afford this? Will my industry peers take me seriously on a professional level if Im not winning? (I mean its 26 for goodness sake!)

Regrouping after my refusal, I heard words passed on to my trainer from a professional before her. We are not curing cancer. We are jumping horses over colored poles and fake flowers. My perspective changed and I for once was able to focus and just RIDE. I made it to the second round and I rode my horse knowing I wasn't going to place in the top, but knowing I needed to prove to myself and my horse that we could interpret the test set before us.

Yes, we had rail, but for the first time in my life I was most proud of myself for moving past disappointment and my own ego. I rode for my horse and that was worth more than any ribbon I could have taken home. To be honest, all the ribbons I display at home represent a special moment in my riding career despite their color. I love this sport for the humility, courage, and work ethic it teaches.

Thank you to my dear friend and trainer Alixe Del Valle Garcia-Falso for helping me overcome the voice in my head, and enabling me to finally ride the horse beneath me. Most of all thank you Atticus for being such a great teacher, partner, therapist, and treat vacuum. Theres always 2016!

Lauren Davis, struggling adult amateur and incurable horse addict, Carlsbad, Calif.

The Best Ribbons Arent Always Blue

LEFT: ATTICUS AND I AT DVG SHOW STABLES IN SAN DIEGO. ABOVE: GREATER SAN

DIEGO HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATION ADULT MEDA

the plaid horse - jan/feb 2016 - the stallion issue

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