Tom Selleck's Daughter

Home , Double Dan (play), Phillip Dutton, Tom Selleck

September 2012 Tom Selleck’s Daughter – Another Star is Born

Hot Horse Properties - Aiken, South Stunning Carolina Supermodel Photos!

Hannah Selleck

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 1 Incorporating 24 HORSES USA PUBLISHER Samantha Charles [email protected]

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jan Westmark-Allan [email protected] 828-575-3965

STAFF WRITERs Contents Lauren Giannini, Abby Westmark

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS What’s Happenin’ Danika Rice, Johnny Robb, Fred McWane, Sydney Masters-Durieux, Laura Danowski, 18 Ingate Holly Hugo-Vidal 54 Off Centerline PHOTOGRAPHERS 106 Asides David Lominska, Jack Mancini , Flashpoint, Alan Fabricant, Susan Stickle Lauren R. Giannini, Shawn McMillen Features Kim & Allen MacMillan 24 G’Day Mate: Double Dan Horsemanship Emily Allongo, Anne Hoover 26 Sidekick: Sherman Undercover SIDELINES COLUMNISTS Dr. Bev Gordon - Horse in Motion 32 Hannah Selleck: A Star All Her Own Lisa Hollister, Esq - Equine Law 44 Jumping For a Worthy Cause Ann Reilly - Sports Psychology 48 My Story – A Poetic Journey Sarah Ward - My Line 6 66 Supermodels Strut Their Stuff JUNIOR WRITERS 78 Mini Therapy – Mighty Results Lauren Corey INTERNS April Leonard, Lydia Marsh, Rebekah 10 Horse Shows Savage, Courtney Zimmerman 6 Sarah Abdi: JustWorld ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER 10 Laura Linback’s Triumphant Life Melissa Burns [email protected] 30 Kelcie Brophy: Painting the Town 561-951-4225 36 Emily Hartley: Winning Ribbons NATIONAL SALES 42 Gigi Nutter Shares Her Passion Joyce Jones 52 Lauren Steiner Aims High [email protected] 61 My Line: Technology Keeps Me Going 954-796-1809 62 West Side Story: Common Ground LOCAL SALES – Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico 64 Second Chances: Prescription of a Lifetime Kayce Douglass [email protected] 74 Busting the Myths of College Riding 720-277-5554 82 Abigail McArdle: Young Riders LOCAL SALES – The Carolinas 84 Riders Shine At NAJYRC Jyoti Parry [email protected] Dressage 561-635-0253 8 Todd Flettrich Tells All CLASSIFIEDS Sis Hotujec 28 Debbie McDonald: Passing the Torch [email protected] 50 Where Champions Meet 561-798-4828 60 Adrienne Lyle: Living the Dream CIRCULATION Bill Tatgenhorst 76 Never Too Old: Six Times A Charm! [email protected] 104 Japanese Olympic Treasure Still Going Strong SUBSCRIPTIONS 108 Meet the Paralympic Equestrian Team Also for change of address 28 112 The Bottom Line: Dressage Dream Team Gigi Harris Toll Free 1-877-966-2289 Outside US 1-803-685-5247 Eventing [email protected] 12 Eventing Lowdown with Jimmy Wofford PUBLIC RELATIONS/DISTRIBUTION Bill Tatgenhorst 58 Tribute to an Olympic Family [email protected]

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Subscription Rates Departments Directories U.S. and Possessions: $29.95 Canada $39.95 4 Letter from the Editor 92 Stallions Foreign except Canada $49.95 103 Barns, Farms, Trainers, Clubs 45 Dana’s Doodles WebSite: www.sidelinesnews.com 43, 111 Mutts 105 Equestrian Services Education, SIDELINES (ISSN 1071-3859) is published 75 Sidelights Tack and Feed Stores monthly for $29.95 per year by Sidelines, Inc. 12400 A South Shore Blvd., Wellington, FL 63 Sports Psychology 107 Real Estate 33414. Periodical postage paid at West Palm 109 Classifieds Beach, FL 33414 and at additional mailing 98 Equine Law offices

POSTMASTER: Address changes should be Cover Photo: Hannah Selleck at El Campeon Farms in Thousand Oaks, California. sent to 11924 Forest Hill Blvd Suite 22 #376 Wellington, FL 33414. Photo by ES Photo 2012, www.esphoto.com. ©Sidelines, Inc., 2012 All Rights Reserved 2 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 3 tale of traveling to Europe to find eLetter From The Editor a horse for her daughter. I want to hear your story so drop me an When I was younger, one of my favorite email and maybe you will get a television shows was “Magnum P.I.” I loved chance to write “Your Story” for Tom Selleck in his Hawaiian shirt, driving a future issue of Sidelines. This around in his red Ferrari while sporting his issue is jam-packed with wonderful trademark mustache. If you were a fan of articles and profiles as well as a Tom’s then - or maybe you watch his current Hot Horse Area section on Aiken, show “Blue Bloods” - I do believe you will South Carolina. be equally smitten by his lovely daughter, By the time this issue reaches Hannah Selleck, who graces our cover this your mailbox, the 2012 London month. Olympic Games will almost be I thoroughly enjoyed interviewing over and many of the equestrians Hannah, getting to know this talented will have medals hanging around their necks. Over the years I have young horsewoman. She isn’t your typical had a chance to interview most of the United States equestrian Hollywood kid; but she is your typical barn Olympians – from Reed Kessler when she was younger to Rich kid. She loves her horses and, like most young riders, one of her Fellers just a few months ago to McLain Ward, Tina Konyot, favorite things about showing is having her parents siting on the Adrienne Lyle, Boyd Martin and many others. One of my favorite side of the ring watching. While Hannah might have supermodel interviews was with Olympic gold medalist Beezie Madden. She good looks, she has no interest in heading to Hollywood. Her was in Europe showing when I called, so I left a message. The favorite place to go? You guessed it – the barn! next day she called me back from Europe and when I answered Speaking of supermodels – Sidelines held a Supermodel Contest the phone she said, “Hi, it’s Beezie.” I certainly didn’t need any on our Facebook page and we received hundreds and hundreds more of an introduction than that. There is only one Beezie. of fabulous photos. This issue features our four Supermodel I hope you enjoy this issue of Sidelines and my chat with Amy winners as well as three gorgeous pages of Supermodel photos. Ebeling below. Her husband Jan Ebeling is also an Olympian – at In this issue we are also introducing a new feature called “My long last! Stay in touch with us on Facebook, visit our website and Story,” written by someone in the horse community – someone drop me a line at [email protected]. just like you. I know you will be intrigued by Elizabeth Boylan’s -- Jan Westmark-Allan The Ebeling Family’s Olympic Quest Jan Ebeling has been in the spotlight quite a bit lately thanks to the famous people surrounding the United States Olympic Dressage rider (see our The Bottom Line story at the end of this issue). While all of the media attention is exciting - there is so much more to the story. “The real story is that Jan is 53 and this is his first Olympics,” said Amy Ebeling, Jan’s wife. “The road to get to the Olympics has been huge, exciting, frustrating and long – it’s been a really long road.” The road has also been filled with a lot of sacrifice, although sacrifice often leads to valuable life lessons. Amy said that in this case, many of the life lessons have been learned by Jan and Amy’s son Ben, who is 12. I spoke with Amy a few days before Amy and Ben left to travel to London and she said, “Ben can’t wait to see his father in the opening ceremonies. He is so proud of Amy, Jan and Ben Ebeling Photo by Maureen Pethick his father.” Like many people in horse families, We look forward to hearing Amy and Ben’s reaction to Ben has made a lot of sacrifices along the way. Would the attending the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Ben, thank you family attend a birthday party or a horse show? “The horses for making the necessary sacrifices so that our country could have often won out; but through all this Ben has learned that proudly watch your father represent the United States. We are hard work equals success. As a mother, this is a wonderful proud of you, too! thing for your child to learn.” -- Jan Westmark-Allan

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On Course . . . . By Abby Westmark JustWorld VolunteeringSarah Abdi, 19, from Anaheim Hills, California, is more thanis just Just Right with a horsewoman. A business major at California State University, Fullerton, Sarah is also a Southern California ambassador, representative and coordinator for JustWorld International. In May of 2012, she went to Guatemala with JustWorld, to meet, interact with and change the lives of kids there. “It was an amazing experience,” said Sarah, about the Guatemala trip. “There was a language barrier; but it didn’t matter. We just wanted to be a part of what they’re doing.” Guatemala, like many other South American countries, has seen a lot of hardship in the past decade. Drug trafficking and violence affect the lives of many there, especially those in the poorer communities and medical care is often very expensive and difficult to come by. JustWorld is trying to change that. “There is a community center there, with a medical center. It’s a safe place for the local kids to go to, a haven for them,” said Sarah. For those unfamiliar with JustWorld International, it is a nonprofit organization based in the international equestrian community that seeks to make long term changes in impoverished countries like Guatemala (as well as Brazil, Honduras and Cambodia) by providing the children of war torn and poverty stricken communities with nutrition, clean water, health care and - most importantly - education. JustWorld believes that education is Sarah and Forlana Van’t Arkelhof key to helping such communities improve their fortunes, allowing an opportunity to make a better world for themselves and their Orange County, California, said, “It struck a nerve with me. [Going families that children otherwise would not have. to Guatemala was] one of the best experiences I’ve had.” But the impact that JustWorld has is not just on the children they This is not a comment to be taken lightly, as Sarah’s homefront are helping; but on their Ambassadors as well. Sarah, raised in accomplishments in the equestrian world are also quite impressive. In 2010 she was the USEF Zone 10 Reserve Children’s Jumpers Horse of the Year as well as PCHA Reserve Children’s Jumper Champion, with her horse Conquest of Paradiso, affectionately known as the “cookie monster.” “He wouldn’t walk out of the ring unless you gave him a cookie,” laughed Sarah, “He’s my favorite horse, he’s super quirky. We were always that pair in the jumper ring that is so scary to watch.” Sarah also has two other horses, her first junior hunter “Royal Flush,” currently leased out to another rider at her barn and her newest partner, “Atylo Z.” “He’s my low junior jumper right now, he’s 12,” said Sarah, of Atylo. “He’s also quirky, just not as much [as Conquest.]” Sarah, a rising sophomore, is looking ahead when it comes to her show career. “My goal is to move up,” she said, “to accomplish something.” Still, school is a priority for Sarah right now, who also works for her parent’s airline software company. “I’m really close to my mom, who handles the business end of the company,” said Sarah. “It’s really cool, we have a lot of international contacts. I definitely want to go into business; but I’m not sure which specific field I want to go into.” Even if her field of study isn’t entirely certain, Sarah’s love Sarah at the JustWorld International booth on a delegation trip of horses is. The best way to say it comes straight from the to Guatemala, helping to raise awareness during the El Cortijo horse(woman)’s mouth - “Regardless, horses are always going to International Horse Show. Sarah (center) is joined by Madison be a part of my life.” McDougall (left) and Evey Hegewisch Photos: Photo courtesy of Sarah Abdi 6 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 7 e ToddDressage Flettrich Tells All By Sue Weakley

Todd Flettrich, a Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer based in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania and Wellington, Florida, is a veteran competitor and trainer at the FEI levels. Todd and Otto, a 16 year old Danish Warmblood owned by Margaret Duprey, represented the United States at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. In June, the duo placed fifth at the U.S. Olympic Dressage Selection Trials held in Gladstone, New Jersey. They qualified to travel to London for the Olympic Games as alternates; but instead Todd and Margaret chose to retire Otto. But even with Todd’s demanding training schedule to make it to the top, he still found time to . . .

Tell us how it felt to go to the Selection Trials in Gladstone . . . It was such an honor to be at Gladstone - so much history. I am just not nervous at competitions; but for the first time in my life, there was tension in the air. People’s lifetime goals and journeys were possible there.

Tell us what it took to make it that far . . . A wonderful sponsor like Margaret. A talented horse and rider. An amazing team including a trainer, a groom, a vet, a farrier. A properly fitting saddle (Otto has changed saddles three times) and bridle. A strategy, dedication, hard work, time, energy and lots of luck.

Tell us what moments in your career have made you the most proud . . . As a child, winning the North American Young Rider Championship was amazing. Then being a part of the top ranking WEG team and finally, placing as the alternate for the Olympics.

Tell us who inspires you . . . Robert Dover is my hero. Jessica Ransehousen is amazing and helped me in the beginning of my career. My European idol is Hubertus Schmidt. Oded Shimoni, my trainer, is my mentor. My American idol is Steffen Peters. It is always an honor to compete against him.

Tell us who you’d invite for dinner, if you could ask anyone, dead or alive . . . My mother, who died when I was 21. I believe that today my mother and I would be best friends.

Tell us what you would you cook for dinner… I’m a New Orleans boy, so I’d make a mean red beans and rice.

Tell us your plans for the future . . . To get back in the saddle. To continue training, teaching and learning. To do some clinics. And to find another Grand Prix horse -- Margaret and I are making plans to travel to Europe and hope to find another horse as wonderful as Otto.

Tell us what you will look for when you search for your next Todd and Otto horse . . . Photo by SusanJStickle.com I love a beautiful horse, but pretty is as pretty wants to do. 8 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 9 e

On Course By Lisa Engel

aura Linback and her husband Troy work out of the family farm, Woodrun, in Mundelein, Illinois. They are fixtures at horse shows throughoutLauraL the country Linback’s and Laura is one of the most Triumphant Life successful amateur riders in the country. Sidelines caught up with the dynamic family to find out about life in Illinois and what life is like after surviving a horrific car accident.

How did you get involved with riding? My maiden name is Gorman and my family has always been involved with horses. My mother, Nancy Gorman, owns and rides some of the top hunter horses in the country. I started off in the pony hunters, then junior hunters and am fortunate to have a championship string of grand prix horses that I compete year round.

You are a formidable force in the grand prix ring -- what’s your secret? I was raised around horses, so I would say it is a combination of my work ethic and commitment to the sport. In all honesty though, Laura and Sampras at the $200,000 HITS Grand Prix in it takes a team and my husband Troy’s tireless efforts conditioning Thermal, California and caring for the horses really contributes to the overall success Photo by Todd Sutherland and Flying Horse Photography of Woodrun. Troy added, “Laura has a unique ability to ride a wide a couple of weeks, we were back at the horse show; because variety of horses, and often right into the winner’s circle. She has a that’s what horsemen do…we keep working. Troy is still healing great knowledge of riding and a very strong competitive spirit. She but works tirelessly by my side. I am so thankful that we survived is not a ‘one horse wonder.’ Her skill sets and unique ability set that crash. her apart from a lot of other riders. She is a true horsewoman.” What’s next for you? What are some of your proudest riding accomplishments? Besides my life as an equestrian, I am also a dedicated wife There are many, however, riding in the World Cup finals in and mother and I value keeping my family together even while on Milan, Italy, winning the Hall of Fame Series three times and the the road. We enjoy our time together whether we’re at a show or National Horse Show Championship title five times are pretty cool. at home at Woodrun. Our next show will be at Hott Horse Shows I was a Nation’s Cup rider in Europe and South America, and I at Maffitt Lake Equestrian Center in Cumming, Iowa. There’s an had two Amateur-Owner Horse of the Year titles with two different example of a horse show that is family friendly—Troy and I are horses. I’ve had great rides on my horses. And, I know that when at the rings while our son Owen is fishing in the pond. The Hott I won those awards, it was actually my team -- my family -- that family really makes us feel at home and offers great horse shows. won. That gives me my greatest sense of accomplishment. As a matter of fact, Troy and I are sponsoring the huge exhibitor party at Maffitt Lake Equestrian Center on August 12 and will be You were involved in an awful car accident last winter. What serving up a steak cookout. We believe in giving back to shows happened? that give so much to its exhibitors. It was awful. My husband Troy and I were returning to the show grounds and our camper, after celebrating my birthday over dinner with friends. A drunk driver crossed the highway and headed directly at us. The car in front of us dropped into the median and then suddenly, this car was seconds away from impact. Troy cut the car hard to the right and by doing so, took the majority of the hit. Thankfully our son Owen, who is usually with us, happened to have returned to Mundelein for a school project due that week. I suffered two broken ribs caused from the seat belt and Troy suffered a pulverized knee and broken bones in the ankle region. (Both Troy and Laura were wearing their seatbelts and the airbags deployed properly.) We were taken in separate ambulances so it was a couple of hours before we knew of each other’s condition, which was awful. I didn’t leave Troy’s bedside as he underwent surgeries and remained in critical condition that week. But, within The Linback family has a little fun Photo courtesy of the Linback family 10 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 11 e

Eventing By Lauren R. Giannini

Three time Olympian Jim Wofford wears many hats, including dog lover, avid fisherman and doting grandfather; but most of allEventing he is a horseman who specializes Lowdown in Three-Day eventing. In with Jimmy Wofford 2000 he was named “One of the 50 Most Influential Horsemen” by the Chronicle of the Horse and in 2012 he garnered the Jimmy A. Williams Lifetime Achievement Trophy, the highest honor awarded by the USEF.

What about our Three-Day team for London? I think we have a really good chance for a bronze medal. I don’t see anyone pushing the Brits and the Germans out of the gold and silver medals, which just depends on whether Michael Jung (GER) or William Fox-Pitt (GBR) has a slightly better day. Our riders are going to have to earn three really good scores; they’re going to have to ride in the ring the way Linda Zang has them going outside. In the final analysis the medals will be determined by team strength, because you know both William and Michael are going to finish in the low 30s. Individual: Jung and Foxy and I think that Phillip Dutton has as good a chance as anybody for a bronze. Zara Phillips (GBR) has a chance and Andrew Nicholson (NZL) is going to be in there no matter what he rides. Unless this rain continues and the ground at Greenwich Olympic Park deteriorates, then it will be very difficult

Jimmy Wofford Photo by Michelle C. Dunn

to determine the outcome; wet conditions will literally be a game changer.

What was your reaction to Allison Springer and Arthur and their breakthrough finish at Rolex? First of all, mild surprise because Arthur has been historically so difficult at Rolex. Then my overwhelming sensation was of relief and gratitude and admiration for their performance – it was a sterling performance. I think Allison had a fabulous weekend.

Karen O’Connor experienced a stunning makeover, on the horse and off. What do you think about her swansong shot, with husband David taking over as Chef d’Equipe after London? I think Karen, after 30 years of competing at this level, woke up about 10 months ago and said, ‘you know, maybe I’m not immortal’ because she always thought she was and that she would ride at this level forever. I think sometime last fall and over the winter Karen started to feel that her window of opportunity was about to swing shut. I would also point out that the secret reason for [Karen’s improved dressage test] is that the team hired Linda Zang and she knows what she’s doing.

Will Coleman has been up and down with Twizzel, who was out of action for a while, but they’re back and better than ever. What about this duo? I’m thrilled and delighted that Will grew up in April at Rolex as a rider and demonstrated the mental qualities it takes to be Twizzel, owned by Jim Wildasin and Will Coleman. Jim Wofford successful at this level. In the past he impressed me as someone said, “In April, Will got down in the scuffle with all the rest of the who is a fabulous technical practitioner of the art; but he lacked a big guys and really got it done.” Photo by Beth Cole Continued on page 14 12 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 13 willingness to ride close to the edge and risk Any major positive lessons to share? not looking picture perfect. In April, Will got Over the last three or four years, it has down in the scuffle with all the rest of the big been learning how good it’s possible for an guys and really got it done. I know him and event rider to be in all three phases. I was his family a little bit, so I was thrilled on both standing at Luhmuhlen with Mark Phillips levels – as a horseman and US supporter, chatting, saying that I had just seen Michael but also on a personal level. I know what a Jung ride by and that he was looking very nice young man he is in the civilian world. well. Lauren Hough had just walked up and was kind of listening and she said, Who What about Phillip Dutton and Mystery did you say? I said “Michael Jung” and I Whisper? was about to explain who he was to a non- We have not seen the best of that horse eventer and Lauren said, Oh yeah, that’s yet. I did not see him go at Red Hills. that eventing kid that comes to all our CSIs When I saw him go later on this spring, and kicks our ass! She was not happy about I thought, ‘Gee, that’s too bad, because it and guess what? He’s now starting to that horse will be fabulous next year show Grand Prix dressage. He’s the poster with Phillip.’ Then I saw him two weeks boy right now for the ultimate specialist; but later and I thought, ‘Well, it’s still too everyone forgets that when Mark Todd won bad, he’s going to be fabulous in another his - ahem - second gold medal, he also six months.’ Then I saw him at Jersey did the show jumping on a horse he bought Fresh (in May) and I thought, ‘Wow, he for nothing because no one else wanted to might come to hand at the end of July.’ ride it. They told him, we don’t have much Because that horse’s learning curve and of a team, and if you can jump a few clean performance curve have been almost rounds at Nations Cup level we’ll put you on vertical. He’s capable of spectacular the show jumping team, too. Toddy said, ‘Oh results. Mystery Whisper is Phillip’s best yeah, that’ll be a bit of a giggle.’ Toddy was chance and possibly last chance at an well placed and the show jumping people individual Olympic medal. Mystery Whisper, owned by Jim and were all shaking their heads. There was Arden Wildasin and Phillip Dutton Toddy doing two out of three in 1988 and Are you surprised that Boyd Martin participate in a jumping clinic in Aiken in in 2016 it’s going to be 1948 all over again will ride Otis Barbotiere, not Neville February, early in their partnership. Jim when the military officers all did at least two Bardos and Tiana Coudray and Wofford said, “We have not seen the best disciplines. What goes round, comes round. Ringwood Magister got the fifth spot? of that horse yet.” Photo by Beth Harpham Otis is a wonderful horse and will get What’s on your to-do list? a wonderful ride from Boyd. Whatever Clinics and rewriting my book is great for Tiana is sad for three or four “Gymnastics.” That will be out within a other people who conceivably could have year and in a totally new format. It’s being gotten the nod from the selectors. With brought into the 21st century. When I say this format of five scores, three to count, rewrite, we’re rewriting the text and it will be that means almost all of the international expanded, illustrated by modern graphics team selectors are going to put in a horse and color photographs. No changes to and rider that will raise your eyebrows. technique; horses are horses and Col. Look at the Brits putting Zara Phillips in Chamberlain told us how to do that. This is from nowhere and making her the fifth just specific exercises that will produce the rider; what do you think they’re telling sort of horse that Chamberlain wanted to her? Kid, go for broke! Because she’s see. Between rewriting the book, doing two going to do a very, very nice dressage to three clinics a month and teaching two or and then they’re just going to turn her three times a week, I’m staying out of trouble. loose. If the conditions are horrible, then For Jimmy Wofford’s biography and roster Zara will feature in my medal predictions. of students who competed in the Olympics, Pan Ams and World Championships, many Just how crushing is it to work so hard earning medals, visit www.jimwofford. and not make the team? blogspot.com You know, I’ve been picked when I shouldn’t have been; I’ve not been About the Writer: Lauren R. Giannini is an picked when I should have been. I’ve award-winning writer specializing in stories been team captain and I’ve been team and photos about the equestrian world. She dog or team drop score. (laughs) I’ve began writing regularly for Sidelines in April been all over the various permutations 2005 with the Focus On Virginia issue. After and combination of team selection. Rolex 2012, Mr. Medicott and Karen covering Rolex Three-Day Event in 2006 When you’re qualified and going pretty O’Connor, who sported a total makeover and producing six pages of photographs, well and you’re left off, you said it in the saddle and out - according to she became Sidelines’ first staff writer. Crazy yourself, it is just crushing. Sometimes it Wofford, “...the secret reason for [Karen’s about horses her entire life, she lives in the is [character building in order to compete improved dressage test] is that the team horse and hunt country of Virginia. Lauren’s at this level], and sometimes athletes hired Linda Zang and she knows what motto is “write, ride - not necessarily in that never get over it. she’s doing.” Photo by Lauren R. Giannini order!” 14 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 15 ePolo USPA Polo Players Celebrate in Style By Kris Bowman

What made this Fourth of July especially patriotic for me was looking out my window at dusk to watch all of the Team USPA players end a long intensive day of coaching and playing in 100 degree heat by helping each other take out their remaining sets and singles. A long time ago, during my first high goal season in Palm Beach, I learned a simple, yet valuable, saying from Charlie Muldoon's head groom, Octavio Pasten,"Uno mano lavan la otra, y los dos lavan la cara" and to me, that day was a prime example of one hand washing the other and with both, you can wash your face. Team USPA Sheridan Leaders (L to Independence Day was the culmination of R) Owen Rinehart, Charles Smith, Kris three intense days of play and instruction. Sever- Bowman and Tommy Wayman al other young players (YPO) were invited to participate in the coached game alongside our Team USPA members and two pros per team, as well as mentors on the sidelines, pushed these players into a new level of play. The amount of information that was directed at these young players was im- mense. During the tape review with Tommy Way- man, Charles Smith and Owen Rinehart, I chuckled to myself when these mentors commented to Lucas Reid of Idaho, about the failed attempt he made on Julio Arellano during the game. The magnitude of the program hit me full force to think that a ranch kid from Idaho who never played six outdoor chukkers in his life was playing against our highest rated American Player and then having Polo legend Tommy Wayman three Polo Hall of Fame award winners give him teaches Todd Thurston how to the low down on what play he should have been hold his reins Julio Arellano and Lucas Reid making was astounding! The next day they were be back on the field, this time instead of on the fields of the famed Flying H Team USPA Polo Club, they were hosted by the Beal family at mentor Hector their polo ranch in Sheridan. The mentors shared Galindo helps their wisdom and the kids exposed their weak- Lucas Reid with nesses and in the end, the result was a greatly his swing improved player who will raise the level of play no matter which club he or she ends up playing for. The overwhelming generosity of the program supporters like the Johnstons, the Beals, Jimmy Newman, Charles, Owen, Hector, Julio and Tom- my Wayman and all others involved, is incalcula- ble and the gratitude that exudes from these young players cannot be mistaken. About the writer: Kris Bowman is the Director of Programs for the USPA and oversees the development, implementation and management of programs related to the growth of polo including the Team USPA program. The mission of the Team USPA program is to enhance and grow the sport of polo in the United States by identifying young, talented American players and providing mentored Team USPA training and playing opportunities leading to a pool Chairman Charles of higher rated amateur and professional players Smith advises Todd and the resultant giveback to the sport of polo. Thurston during a

Photos by Will Travers stick and ball session 16 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 17 eIngate

Talk show host Kelly Ripa, from “Live! With Kelly” told her audience that if they spotted her in a tack store buying riding crops they shouldn’t presume she had read the novel Fifty Shades of Grey. Her daughter, Lola, rides and she promised she would be buying a riding crop for Lola to use in her lessons and in the show ring.

Fox hunting is thriving in Aiken, South Carolina and all of the clubs are totally subscribed and Whiskey Road has a new joint master, Barbara Nelson. With all the hard work and enthusiasm she has put into building the new SPCA animal shelter, we can’t wait to see what plans she has for more fun and sport with WRFH. Of course, not sure how you can improve on Whiskey’s already fantastic fixtures and a hunt week that draws over a hundred riders. Maybe vintage champagne and pate served at the checks? We’ll see.....Hunt Week starts January 30. Join in! Jyoti Parry, Aiken Sidelines Ad rep and Barn Book rep, legacy “rode on” this year at the Rebecca Broussard’s recently lost her loving companion and best friend Mister on in Kalispell, Montana. Becky Rebecca Farm CIC 3 Star Event July 24th. Our dogs are with us on this earth for such a short was the founder of the Rebecca Farm Event and was one of the period, but leave a lasting impression on our lives and will strongest supporters of the eventing world, before her death. remain in our hearts forever! Becky was very courageous in her battle against cancer and at the time of her death the eventing community lost one of their heroes. In remembrance of Becky, Rebecca Farm marked the first year of Halt Cancer at X, an initiative started by her daughter Sarah Broussard, to raise money for cancer research. Halt Cancer at X was enthusiastically supported by all of the competitors and visitors at the Event. During the event, many horses were spotted wearing pink ribbons and numerous riders wore a pink armband. This year the outstanding cross-country course was designed by Ian Stark, the well known and “living legend” Scottish event rider. Riders, horses and visitors always feel at home and welcome in the magnificent state of Montana and it is a privilege to have such a prominent, superior CIC 3 Star Event in the Western part of the United States. Hats off to Sarah Broussard for running such a successful Event this year at Rebecca Farm.

Six weeks of fantastic competition and wonderful events at the Colorado Horse Park were capped off with a weekend to remember. There was truly something Continued on page 20 18 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 19 Abigail McArdle, Shawn Casady and Charlotte Jacobs were on a roll at the 2012 North American Junior & Young Rider Championships in the Junior Show Jumping division this year. Abigail and Cosma 20 were the stars of the event, completing an incredible five clear rounds in just three days to capture the Gold Medal. It came down to a jump off for the remaining medal positions. Shawn and Elm Rock LLC’s Zubantos managed a fault free effort for the Silver Medal, while Charlotte and Deeridge Farm’s Kachina captured the Bronze Medal after adding one unlucky rail to their score in the final speed test.

Charlotte Jacobs, Abigail McArdle and Shawn Casady Photo by Kenneth Kraus/Phelps Media

for everyone, including pony rides and face painting for military families during the second annual Military Appreciation Day, equestrian safety and the distribution of free helmets during the Parker Adventist Hospital Helmet Fitting and the Wildfire Relief Fundraising Auction spearheaded by Liliane Stransky and her Step by Step Foundation. The day concluded with world class competition in the $50,000 Parker Adventist Hospital Grand Prix. Kristen VanderVeen, of St. Charles, Illinois, defended her title as reigning champion of the biggest Grand Prix of the Colorado Summer Circuit. On her horse Bull Run’s Zino Platinum, an 11 year old Holsteiner (Accorodo), Kristen led the victory gallop for the second year in a row.

True champions! Liliane Stransky and a group of riders, including her daughter Daniela (15), Jose F. Bonetti (15), Kelsie Brittan (18) and her brothers Clayton and Spencer (14), jumped into action at the Colorado Horse Park to aid victims of the Waldo Canyon Fire by putting together the Step by Step Foundation’s Wildfire 20 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Relief Auction, raising $6,000! “Everyone at the Horse Park London Paralympics. Both women have traveled with the team is concerned about the families who have lost everything and for a few years and have experienced different sides of the of course their animals. So we decided to do something for our competition. As a Para-Equestrian Dressage rider, Ellie has community and the horses we love so much with this auction,” endured the trials and tribulations of competition while Lindsay explained Liliane. Many vendors and competitors donated to has witnessed and chronicled through her lens the increasing the auction; which included everything from tack from CWD to demand for the Para-Equestrian Dressage discipline. fine jewelry to private riding lessons with top international grand prix show jumping veterans. The Waldo Canyon Fire destroyed The Wheeler Museum, located in the USHJA Headquarters 347 homes, burned more than 18,000 acres, left more than at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, has a 32,000 people homeless and killed two residents. Lives, homes new exhibit called, Ponies through the Decades. This exhibit and valuables have been lost and while countless frightened has the added distinction of being the first exhibit to go virtual. animals, from small mustangs to huge drafts from local stables, USHJA has teamed up with Virtual Celebration to turn the had to be relocated. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted exhibit into a Virtual Interactive Exhibit. by the fires and we offer a big “Thank You” to Step by Step for Registration is free and easy, so step into the Ponies through stepping up to help! the Decades online world by visiting www.virtualcelebration. com/wmponies . Speaking of Colorado – Sidelines Magazine is looking for a blogger that rides and competes on the Colorado circuit – and Ronald Zabala-Goetschel is in the process of making history wants to keep everyone informed about life out “west.” The blog for his home country of Ecuador by being the first equestrian would appear on the Sidelines website – if you like to blog, to participate as an individual in the sport of Eventing at the send an email to [email protected]. Olympics! It’s been an interesting journey for Ronald, who has been based in the United States for the past nine years. Training Looks like the 2018 World Equestrian Games won’t be held in out of Phillip Dutton’s True Prospect Farm, Ronald’s dream the United States. Equestrian Sport Productions, owner and of taking his star horse, Mr. Wiseguy, to the Olympics was operator of the world renowned Winter Equestrian Festival, Continued on page 23 has informed the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) and the United States Equestrian Federation that they are withdrawing their bid for the FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2018 to be held in Wellington, Florida. The USEF has expressed their disappointment at the decision.

Sidelines is pleased to report that two very talented women heading to the Paralympics this summer will provide coverage for Sidelines. Para- Equestrian Ellie Brimmer of Wayzata, Minnesota and Equestrian Photojournalist Lindsay McCall of Canfield, Ohio will be on the grounds at Greenwich Park providing media coverage of the 2012

“Like” us on Facebook Visit our website at www.sidelinesnews.com FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 21 22 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE sidelined due to some minor soundness issues. Ronald persevered, strategically acquiring several other top international horses. During 2011 Ronald purchased ODT Master Rose, a 2000 Irish Sport Horse gelding who had a very successful international career with Oliver Townend in the irons, including several top 4* placings such as Luhmuehlen, where he placed 7 th. This talented gelding, by the top international sire Master Imp, is a half brother to several other international horses headed to the 2012 Olympics, including Tiana Coudray’s Ringwood Magister (Team USA) and Zara Phillip’s High Kingdom (British Team). Clearly the decision to invest in Master Rose was a well thought out one!

Heather Wamsley, D.V.M., Ph.D., an assistant professor of clinical pathology at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, has received the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association’s National Teaching Excellence Award.

The pony world has lost the famous medium pony, Tuscany, who died at 14 of founder. Tuscany was extremely successful with owner Sophie Michaels. He was champion at WEF, HITS, On The Hudson, HITS Thermal, I Love New York, Kentucky Spring, Kentucky Summer, WIHS and Pennsylvania National and Country Heir.

Our condolences to the family and friends of freelance writer and photographer Sarah Greenhalgh, who died Looks like , of Aiken, South Carolina, has a sea in a house fire near Upperville, Virginia. Sarah’s home Tana Glockner horse! At least that’s what her little girls decided their sweet horse burned down on the morning of July 9th and authorities needed to be when they were playing dress up with the horse. “This found her body inside. The authorities have stated they is what little girls do to have fun on a summer day,” Tana said believe the fire was suspicious in nature.

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 23 G’Day Mate Down Under’s Double Dan Horsemanship

Australian horseman Dan James

By Abby Westmark he is based out of Taylor Made Farm, a prominent thoroughbred breeding facility in Lexington. “There are lots of people here, big The lovely country of Australia has undeniably given us many freeways,” said James, when asked how he feels about America. wonderful things - the Sydney Opera House, the boomerang “It’s a very different lifestyle.” and the ever-gorgeous movie star Hugh Jackman. But it has “We love being across here,” continued James, referring to much more to boast than just sand, sun, waves and fabulous Lexington. “Everywhere you go is about the horse.” Dan Steers, accents; the land down under is also the home of Double Dan who is currently still in Australia, will be joining James in the states Horsemanship, the new sensation in natural horsemanship that is for a number of clinics and events and will eventually be making taking the world by storm. the jump to living in America along with his wife, veterinarian Pia I had the pleasure of speaking to Dan James, one of the two Steers. But this doesn’t mean that Dan and Dan will forget their namesakes of Double Dan. He and his business partner Dan roots down under. Steers joined their formidable forces under the Double Dan banner “We have a responsibility to Australia. They’ve made such a in 2008 at the El Caballo Spanish Horse Center in Wooroloo, big impact on helping us get where we’re at,” said James. “We’ve Western Australia, conducting daring bareback demonstrations never had a small dream [about Double Dan.]” Double Dan was to entertain the guests on the ranch, or, as James calls it, “the even invited to perform as part of the opening ceremonies for station.” the World Equestrian Games 2010 and was one of the featured Although they started out as entertainment, taking their clinicians there. performing horses on the road all across Australia (and even to Dan and Dan will be doing a number of clinics and events the TV show Australia’s Got Talent,) Dan and Dan are all about throughout the rest of the year and Sidelines highly encourages the horsemanship. “We want to make the public aware of the their readers to stop by and see Dan and Dan in action (Hugh possibilities with horses,” said James. Jackman’s got nothing on them in the looks department!) You And it’s no wonder, considering his start in the equestrian world. might even get the chance to talk to them and if you’re lucky, the Dan’s first time in the saddle was at the ripe old age of 6 weeks, conversation might even end with a charming “G’day, mate!” on his parents’ small cattle farm in Queensland, Australia. When he was 10, he got his first pony, but he already had many years About the writer: Sidelines staff writer Abby Westmark grew up in of experience under his belt - riding the family’s milk goat! “I’ve Wellington, Florida where she rode and competed everything from ponies always had a belief, a dream, seeing myself having a life that to jumpers. She is a college sophomore still trying to figure out what she revolved around horses,” James said. wants to do with the rest of her life. Due to their success in Australia, Double Dan has decided to expand stateside. James now lives in Lexington, Kentucky, where Photos: All photos by Laura W. Donnell of Laura Whitney Photography 24 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE “We want to make the public Dan and his horse during a photo aware of the possibilities with shoot for Sidelines Magazine at horses,” said James the Kentucky Horse Park

Dan makes up half the team of Double Dan Horsemanship

Dan demonstrates his bond with his horses

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 25 e

Sidelines Sidekick

By Abby Westmark

Sherman has a lot of titles under his belt. He’s Celebrating A Different Kind anof officer Horsepower with his local police force in Willoughby, Ohio, a Lieutenant with the local fire department and he’s won two international mounted police titles, all at the surprisingly young age of 12. Oh, Sherman Undercoverdid we mention that he’s a horse? Sherman’s mom, Officer Taya Workum-Byers, has had the 14 year old Saddlebred/Clydesdale cross since he was just one year old. He was two when she went into the police academy and joined her in civil service 10 ½ years ago. “Sherman is a one of a kind horse,” says Taya. “He is big, beautiful and has a wonderful temperament. I am convinced that he thinks all people were put on earth to pet him, tell him how wonderful he is and give him treats!” Sherman’s view is one that many of us recognize in our horses; but his choice of treats is a little less conventional. “He loves strawberry sour patch kids and all different flavors of Twizzlers!” says Taya. “He also has a weird affinity for mascots, like Brutus Buckeye from Ohio State University and Skipper from the local minor league baseball team. He likes to headbutt their costume heads.” Perhaps he thinks they will magically produce Twizzlers? Of course, life for Sherman is more than just fun and games. In addition to his duties as mounted patrol, Sherman works for the fire department, providing his services as a “mounted medic” for the local annual 10k run, where Sherman and Taya can reach areas that ambulances can’t in case of emergency. As a Lieutenant, Sherman commands a lot of respect around the fire department, even from his mom. “He actually outranks me,” says Taya. Although Sherman is the only horse on the Willoughby police force, he and Taya get plenty of co worker socialization time - Ohio’s mounted units train together as often as possible, and work together at many of the state’s larger events. And when he’s not helping out at fairs, festivals and the occasional riot, we can only assume that Sherman is catching criminals by staying true to his full name - Flying W Farms Undercover.

Do you know of a horse with an interesting career that deserves a place as Sidelines Sidekick? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to Sherman and Officer Taya Workum-Byers have your equine companion featured here.

26 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 27 eDressage Debbie McDonald - Passing the Torch By Lauren R. Giannini may never get another chance – yet again, you might have many more.’ You just really can’t take it for granted and she never would Debbie McDonald became the first American rider to win the anyway! World Cup Finals in Las Vegas (2005) with Brentina when they danced into first place and the hearts of the world, earning R-E-S- How do you rate the US Dressage riders? P-E-C-T. Previously, the duo harvested team and individual gold at Adrienne is riding as an individual. As far as the team situation, the 1999 Pan American Games; which led to Debbie earning 1999 we have a good chance to medal if everybody is on their game USEF Equestrian of the Year and the U.S. Olympic Committee and has their best ride. But remember - we’re riding horses. We Female Equestrian Athlete of the Year. In 2002 and 2006 they won can’t ever determine what’s really going to happen. team silver and team bronze at the World Equestrian Games and in 2004 team bronze and fourth place individually at the Athens What have you shared with Adrienne so she doesn’t Olympics. In 2005, Brentina was honored as the Farnam/Platform fold under all that pressure? USEF Horse of the Year and four years later retired officially at the That’s one thing I have to say for this kid – Adrienne’s such a World Cup Finals in Las Vegas. In 2010, Debbie was named the cool competitor; but that was something I struggled with in my USEF’s Developing Dressage Coach, a role designed to identify career. She was born to do this. She doesn’t get worked up. She and cultivate future U.S. Dressage stars. She had a head start keeps herself in a great mental place all the time. Wizard can be by several years, having taken on Adrienne Lyle as a working a little bit of a difficult horse in the fact that he’s temperamental. student at River Grove Farm in Sun Valley, Idaho. She is the best personality in the world for this horse. So I don’t really worry about her in that light. I feel really comfortable with How does it feel to train the next generation of her there, which is a cool place to be. I’m the one who’s a nervous Olympians? wreck that I have to keep under wraps so she doesn’t pick up on It’s very emotional to be here with Adrienne and Wizard. It’s me. It’s much harder to watch than it is to ride. great to be able to give that to somebody young, let them know what to expect. You can get yourself so worked up about trying for Was it “fate” that Adrienne was your working student that ride, for those six minutes in the ring that you sometimes don’t when Wizard didn’t really suit you? open up and enjoy what’s happening around you. I told Adrienne, Wizard is a big horse and Adrienne’s just shy of six feet, so she’s ‘You take this and you live every single moment of it, because you a very tall girl herself and that has helped to make that combination what it is. He has incredible talent. He’s such a cool horse; but again he’s very temperamental. If something sets him off, I go, ‘oh no, please behave yourself!’ – and it’s not that he’s spooky. He’s usually at his best in an environment where you look at him and think, ‘OMG, he’s ready to explode’ and yet he’s still under control, because he gets amazingly brilliant and expressive. But when you have to work too much to create that [energy], he’ll get a little ‘ya know I don’t think I want to play so hard.’ I’m hoping that the environment will do that for him in London.

How much of a miracle was it to get to London? Never did I ever think that in the seven years we’ve been training this particular horse that all this would happen so quickly! We all know how many people have been working all their lives to have it happen. The fact that it’s in the era of our sponsor, Parry and Peggy Thomas, is great. Parry just celebrated his 91st birthday and has been my sponsor for 34 years and Adrienne’s for seven. Now, with London, he has taken two riders to three consecutive Olympics. To be able to have him give us this opportunity is something that may never happen again. You learn not to take anything for granted and you work day to day. Some days are better than others, as we all know with horses. I think that the whole thing coming together, like I said, in a seven year period with the first horse A magical team: Adrienne Lyle, Debbie McDonald and Wizard in the UK, Adrienne brought up to Grand Prix level is pretty ready to head to the Olympics amazing. 28 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 29 e PaintingSide Item The Town

Kelcie and Sun Man Photo by Diana Hadsall

By Jan Westmark-Allan What are your goals with Eric? Kelcie Brophy loves to paint the town – on a flashy paint I have qualified for three of the Big Eq finals so far, so I am named Sun Man that is! Kelcie, an 18 year old from Wellington, hoping to put in solid rounds at those and also to do some Florida, made the paint world – as well as the equitation world hunter derbies on him. We were 5th in our first $30,000 derby at – proud when she cruised to victory in the ASPCA Maclay at Country Heir in June. Devon aboard Sun Man, known as Eric, a 10 year old Oldenburg owned by Sweet Oak Farm. Sidelines caught up with the What are your riding goals? talented rider to learn more about her life and what it was like to I would love to finish off my junior career by getting some finals win a prestigious Big Eq class on a “horse of a different color.” ribbons. I also have been getting to do some really cool high junior jumpers lately and really enjoy that. How did you paint the town at Devon? By winning the ASPCA Maclay at Devon, section A. I don’t What are your plans now? own any horses, so I just catch ride. Most of the horses I ride are I am going to the University of Florida in the Spring. owned by Sweet Oak Farm, including Eric. I love showing Eric. I feel like he catches people’s eye because he is so flashy. Some Do you have any “lucky” items you wear when you show? judges have penalized him because of his color; but it doesn’t I have one lucky shirt that I love. phase me, I love him! What’s your biggest pet peeve? Did you feel confident riding into the ring for the Maclay? When the clasp on a necklace is twisted in the front instead of I was nervous because it was my last year as a junior to show the back of a person’s neck. I don’t know why; but that makes at Devon. I trust Eric 100 percent. He is never spooky or wild, so me crazy! I had confidence in our partnership. Who has inspired you the most in your life? What did if feel like when you won? My trainers have. I have ridden with Shane and Ali Sweetnam I was shocked! I was called back in 4th after the jumping since I was seven and have been so lucky to be able to train with phase, but Eric is amazing on the flat, so we moved up to 1st. Michael, John and Missy for the past two years. They really have all believed in me so much and inspired me to become the rider Who do you train with? I am today. I train with Shane and Ali Sweetnam at Sweet Oak Farm and with Michael DelFiandra, Missy Clark and John Brennan at North If you weren’t a rider, what would you be? Run. I would be a lion tamer. Just saying! 30 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Find Your New Best Friend!

10948 Acme Road, Wellington, FL 33414

www.BDRR.org

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 31 e ACover Star Story All Her Own

A young Hannah and her dad, Tom Selleck, celebrate her victory at Pebble Beach with her pony First Impression Photo courtesy of Hannah Selleck

By Jan Westmark-Allan jerked her head down and I went flying off rolling over her neck. I got back on and she did it again. I fell off twice in a row in a matter As the daughter of famous Hollywood parents, Hannah Selleck of five minutes,” Hannah recalled. “My dad didn’t interfere and just could have chosen a career path that included the glitzy and let me get back on and try again because that is what I wanted. glamorous trappings of a Hollywood lifestyle. Instead of hanging He has always been very supportive of my riding and so has my out with celebrities, however, Hannah is far more likely to be found mom. My mom is amazing; she comes to nearly every show and hanging out at the barn – thanks to a love of horses that began is always at the ring video taping my rounds. I wouldn’t be where at the tender age of four on the back of a tiny pony. Her early I am today without all their love and support.” experiences with horses had a lasting impact on Hannah - setting Hannah, who lives in Los Angeles, began competing on the the stage for her life’s calling and unearthing a passionate love for A circuit when she was 10 and, as they say in the movies, it horses that has carried on through her teen and college years and was “lights, camera, action” after that. Hannah started riding into her adult life. with California trainer Karen Healy when she was 16 and said, Hannah, 23 and now a professional rider, is the daughter of “I have trained with Karen since then and along the way I have Tom Selleck, of “Magnum P.I.” and “Blue Bloods” fame, and Jillie also gotten help from Leslie Howard and Ian Miller. Karen is the Selleck, a dancer who performed in “Cats” in London. “My parents most dedicated and hard working trainer I know and I admire are private and they wanted me to be normal and live a normal her greatly. She has taught me the importance of preparation for childhood so I haven’t lived the Hollywood lifestyle. Growing up I both horse and rider and that there is no substitute for hard work. had a bunch of different animals: cows, sheep, rabbits, dogs (at Whether it is for the equitation ring or a World Cup qualifier, the one point we had 13), cats and horses,” Hannah said. “I tried lots foundation and basics are the same.” of activities when I was young, including ice skating, ballet, soccer After earning a Communications degree from Loyola and gymnastics. My parents encouraged me to find my own path.” Marymount University last year, Hannah faced an important career crossroad – would she choose a job in the real world or Great Memories pursue life as an equestrian? One thing she knew for sure, she Hannah’s path took her toward the barn, and rightly so, as a had ruled out following in her parent’s footsteps. “I took one acting love for horses runs in Hannah’s genes. Her dad had learned class in college and I was terrified,” Hannah said. With acting out to ride for Western movies and the Selleck family had horses at of the picture, Hannah accepted a summer internship at a public home. Those ranch horses not only fueled Hannah’s equestrian relations firm in Beverly Hills. “I didn’t like being inside from 9 to aspirations but also helped create a lifetime of great memories. 6 – my passion was horses and I knew then that horses was what “My best horse memory probably has to be the first time my dad I wanted to pursue.” ever came to watch me ride. I was four years old and taking lessons on a tiny black Shetland Pony named Sheba who was The Future bratty, as ponies can be. She knew just how to throw me off - she Hannah accepted a job as an assistant with Karen Healy and 32 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Hannah and her first pony Taffy Apple Photo courtesy of Hannah Selleck

Hannah and her boys, Barla (left) and Bauer Photo by www.esphoto.com has discovered her calling. “Karen is a great teacher and she will was on my horse Bauer who I knew much better at this point. We further my career. It’s hard work but I love it, especially working for ended up winning both the team gold medal and individual gold Karen at the shows, helping with the equitation kids and jumpers,” medal and I also won the style of riding award. Winning Young Hannah said. Since turning professional, Hannah said she has Riders was a goal I had for a long time as a junior so it was very determined that she made the right career decision. “I discovered rewarding to accomplish it,” she said. I can do this. I can hang in there and be competitive.” Hannah added that her double gold medal wins aboard Bauer Being competitive isn’t anything new for this talented young in 2008 were made even sweeter because the year before, in professional, as her junior career was jam-packed with highlights. 2007, during her last junior year, she was unexpectedly unable Hannah is also quick to point out that being in the show ring is a to compete on the Prix de States team at Harrisburg. “Bauer had lot more fun then attending Hollywood functions. “I went to the injured himself and needed time off. I had to give up my spot on the Emmy’s with my dad when I was younger. It was a really long team and that was disappointing. Letdowns like that are always awards show and not very fun.” hard but I knew I could not dwell on the disappointment and had to What was fun was earning her own awards and Hannah keep focused on my goals. Winning Young Riders a few months racked up a series of prestigious wins over the years, including: later taught me that there are always ups and downs with this the Silver Team Medal at the Prix de States in 2005; the 16 year sport and if you are going to be a real competitor you have to get old Equitation Championship at Capitol Challenge in 2006; the used to it. That was definitely not my first disappointment in my Junior Jumper Reserve Champion Zone 10 Horse of the Year with riding career and will not be my last.” Bauer in 2007; winning the USEF Talent Search Medal Finals on W.C. Swing in 2008; placing fourth in the $75,000 BP Cup at the A Special Horse Spruce Meadows Masters in 2009; winning the $35,000 Blenheim While Hannah has some new horses in her stable, she said one Summer Classic II Grand Prix in 2010; and winning the $10,000 “oldie but goodie” is still proudly part of her show string. “My horse Blenheim Summer Classic 1.35 Classic in 2011 and placing Bauer has been so great to me, so at the end of 2010 we decided second in the $80,000 1.50m TD Cup at Spruce Meadows. to give him an early retirement. He had sustained a minor injury It was Hannah’s experiences at the North American Junior/ and needed a few months off, not to mention he had done so much Young Rider Championships (NAJYRC) that stand out as for me over the years, taking me into the junior jumpers, winning highlights in her life and taught her valuable learning experiences double gold at Young Riders and into some World Cup qualifiers. as well. “In 2006 I went to Young Riders for my first time, in Well that didn’t suit him and he jumped out of his pasture a few Lexington, Virginia and competed on the junior team on my horse times over the course of 2011, so at the beginning of this year we Bauer who I had purchased earlier that year from Jimmy Torano decided to bring him back to work. Right now he is showing in the as one of my first junior jumpers. That year we finished with a 1.45m and will hopefully be able to do some 1.50m classes here team bronze medal. In 2008 I competed at Young Riders again, and there. He is truly a special horse.” this time in Parker, Colorado on the Young Rider team. Again I Continued on page 33 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 33 Hannah and ES Carando Z show off their determination and skill at Spruce Meadows Photo by Cansport Photo

As Hannah looks toward the future she is excited about Someone set up a riding lesson for me on a school horse there competing at the grand prix level. She is also breeding horses and we were invited to sit in the playpen where the sponsors with the hopes of one day raising her own international caliber sit during classes at the Masters,” Hannah said. “I had no idea horses. Hannah recently competed at Spruce Meadows, where that years later I would be back at Spruce Meadows, working she and Bauer placed 9th in the $32,000 Westjet Cup 1.45m for Karen and competing as a professional rider.” While Hannah class at the Canada One show. Being in Calgary brought back may not have lived the Hollywood lifestyle, returning years later memories of an experience she had when she was 12. “My to Spruce Meadows plays out like a good Hollywood movie – one dad was in Calgary filming and we went to Spruce Meadows. with a happy ending.

Hannah and Bauer competing at Spruce Meadows this year Photo by Cansport Photo

Hannah and Barla in California Photo by www.esphoto.com 34 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 35 e WinningJuniorside Ribbons from State to State By Courtney Zimmerman

Emily Hartley is a 17 year old junior rider who lives in Southern California and rides for two trainers in two different states. She regularly flies to Chesterfield, Missouri to ride for trainer Micaela Kennedy and when she isn’t in Missouri she is training with Kristy Miller in Southern California. She is a working student catch rider who travels to compete in hunters, jumpers and equitation for Michaela at horse shows all over the country. Some of her accomplishments include qualifying for the Maclay, USEF Medal and USEF Talent Search and earning 10th place in the $25,000 International Hunter Derby in Chicago. Emily travels about every other month to Missouri, riding up to six horses in a day and has spent the last three summers working for Micaela. In addition to consistently riding and traveling, Emily still attended public high school and took all honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, graduating with a 4.5 GPA. Emily was offered a scholarship to ride for the Equestrian Team of Oklahoma State University and will start classes in the fall. Saying that she is determined is a bit of an understatement. Here, she takes a moment to tell Sidelines Magazine about herself.

When did you begin riding? Emily competing Cancun in the medium junior I began riding at age three; but didn’t start jumpers Photo by Flying Horse Photography showing until the age of five. I started competing Emily Hartley Photo by Osteen Photography on the A circuit when I was around 10 years old. My mom was my first teacher and she taught me the basics of riding, placing a great deal of emphasis on natural feel. Do you have any superstitions while you are competing at a What is your ideal horse to ride? horse show? My favorite type of horse to ride in regards to their style and I am actually one of the most superstitious people I know. I technique would be a horse with a big, powerful jump and a nice, basically have a lucky outfit (hunt coat, breeches, belt, socks and long and rhythmical canter. I also like riding ponies as well. underwear), although I do not wear all of them at once just in case. My two main items that I consider “lucky” are my watch and What is it like working for trainers in two different states? bracelet. I always wear them when I show and if it happens to Having two trainers in two different states can be difficult, not be a good day I will switch which hand they are worn on and especially when school is added into the equation; however, I somehow the day always seems to turn around. have been able to make it work for the last three years. I travel to shows with my main trainer, Micaela Kennedy, about every other What’s the best advice you have been given? month for three weeks at a time and usually spend most of my The greatest advice I have been given is that it is not always summers with her. When I am home in California I ride with a about the amount of ribbons you have or the placing you get; but local trainer, Kristy Miller, just to keep me ready and prepared for the round you and your horse put in. If you have a good round when I travel back to the Midwest and East Coast. I have learned and you are happy with how you and the horse performed, do not a great deal from both of them. worry so much about the ribbons because what really matters is the quality of your round. What is your favorite thing to do in your free time? When I am not riding or traveling, I usually spend my days About the writer: Courtney Zimmerman, from Cincinnati, Ohio, hanging out with friends and going to the beach. When I was in graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.S. in Equine Science school I competed in cross country running and track, so in my and Management. She is currently working on her M.A. of Communication spare time I like to run a couple miles a day. In addition I have at Northern Kentucky University. She works at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden where she is an Animal Handler in the Education started to write a small book/autobiography about my life and Department. experiences. 36 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 37 38 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 39 40 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 41 eHorse Show Gigi Nutter Shares Her Passion By Dani Moritz “great” for different reasons. If I had to name one, I would choose my second Grand Prix From competing at the grand prix dressage horse Fahrenheit (aka Wendell). dressage level to earning a USDF Gold I purchased him as a jumper prospect and Medal, Gigi Nutter, has what it takes to make decided to make him a dressage horse after it in the equestrian world. Gigi, a hunter, having my daughter. He didn’t have great jumper and dressage rider and trainer, conformation and the movements never has many accomplishments under her belt came easily. Wendell’s strength came from and has successfully helped her students his willing heart and love for me. Together, qualify for prestigious competitions like the we achieved more than anyone thought Medal and Maclay Finals. Gigi owns her possible including winning the Region 3 own equestrian center, Touch n’ Go Farm Championships at 4th through every FEI in Whitesburg, Georgia, that specializes level and several Horse of the Year Awards. in hunters, jumpers and dressage. And if that isn’t enough, she is also a coach for You’ve ridden with George Morris, what RateMyRiding.com—which allows her to was it like? connect with students across the nation. In a word, demanding. George instilled Despite being busy at the barn, Gigi sat discipline and commitment and insisted on down to answer a few questions for us. me riding absolutely straight lines. I can still Here’s what she had to say: hear him saying “STOP on your line!” To this day, I still think of George when I enter How did you get involved with horses? the dressage ring and ride down centerline. I was on a horse before I was born. George is “firm yet fair.” He gets the best My parents had one of the first trail riding out of any rider who is committed to being businesses in the Pocono Mountains. the best they can be. Horses were part of my life from birth as I napped in my pony’s manger. I grew up with What is your greatest equestrian them. achievement? Over 50 years of riding experience What’s the greatest riding advice you’ve makes this difficult to answer. Putting ever been given? flying changes on an event horse As a jumper rider I was told to “throw headed to the Sydney Olympics is Gigi and her favorite horse Wendell your heart over the fence” by Flo Lininger, certainly one. Watching students achieve competing at Devon my first riding instructor. In addition, Karl Photo by PhelpsPhotos.com individual goals as simple as getting Mikolka passed along a quote from his their horse on the outside rein to career mentor that I believe in deeply. “The book for this horse hasn’t accomplishments like earning the USDF Gold Rider Medal. been written yet. It is up to you to write it.” How do you unwind after a long day at the barn? Who is your equestrian idol and why? I love talent shows on television such as “American Idol, “The Karl Mikolka. He rode at the Spanish Riding School for 14 years Voice” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” As with horses, it’s and rose to the position of chief rider. He has taught me so much fun finding the undiscovered “diamond in the rough.” about the timing of the aids and how exercises systematically develop the horse. How did you get involved with Rate My Riding? Susan Starr, the director of Rate My Riding, approached me What’s your favorite quote? and asked if I would like to be one of the coaches. It didn’t take “Your horse is a mirror to your soul, sometimes you might not long for me to become interested in the opportunity. like what you see, sometimes you will.” -- Buck Brannaman What is the best part of Rate My Riding? What’s your favorite genre of music? Riders can get different views from other professionals they My favorite genre is Classic Rock and everyone knows I’m a might not have access to otherwise. Rod Stewart fan. What are you looking forward to as a Rate My Riding coach? What’s your favorite hobby outside of the barn? Teaching is my passion. As always, I’m looking forward to Clinics and lessons take me away from my family; but I love sharing my knowledge and experience with people who love to spending time with my daughter and husband when I’m home. ride. Video critiques are an effective means to highlight a rider’s We enjoy the beach, traveling, swimming, shooting, bowling and strengths and areas for improvement. hanging out with our four-legged menagerie. About the writer: Dani Moritz is a senior at William Woods University Who is the greatest horse you’ve ever ridden and why? and is a writer/producer and creative director for RateMyRiding.com. She During my career, I’ve ridden many special horses that were is also the 2012 American Horse Publications Student Award Winner. 42 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Mutt of the month Damien is a happy and gentle 3 year old male Weimaraner who came into the ranch heartworm positive. This sweet pup will need to undergo treatment and would be more comfortable going through it in his new home, or he will be ready for adoption after he does it with us. Please help give Damien the good life he deserves! Please contact Big Dog Ranch Rescue at (561) 309-3311 or www.BDRR.org to meet Damien or any of our other dogs. http://www.petango.com/Adopt/Dog- Weimaraner-16237123.

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 43 e

Making a Difference In the high flying world of international show jumping, horses and fundraising have proven to be a winning combination. Taking note, Liliane Stransky, the President and founder of the Step by Step Foundation and owner of Stransky’s Mission Farm in Wellington, Florida, enlisted the talents of riders of all ages, levels andJumping backgrounds to help spread For the word and a make Worthy change Cause possible for children in need. Liliane, who emigrated from Venezuela in 2000, has always had a passion for helping people as well as a love of horses. Now living in Miami Beach, Florida, she launched the Step by Step Foundation in 2004 to assist underprivileged children living in poverty. Her goal was simple and yet overwhelming; to raise awareness and secure funds to create and support health, nutrition, water, education and other sustainable programs both in communities in America as well as impoverished countries abroad. It was on a youth mission in Haiti in 2009 that her youngest daughter, Daniela, an avid equestrian moving up the show jumping ranks, came up with the idea of uniting a “team” of youth ambassadors. Over the years Daniela, now 15, has donated her winnings, secured in-kind donations, and encouraged her friends and peers to jump on the bandwagon and do the same. In 2010, Liliane formalized the efforts of the riders who had jumped behind the charity by introducing “Team Step by Step,” a lineup of talented riders, including children, juniors, adults, amateurs and professionals from the U.S. and abroad who champion the charity every time they enter the show ring. “It’s amazing how many kids wanted to help and to be involved,” smiled Liliane. “They take the reins into their own hands and Making a change in the world: Emanuel Andrade, Daniela spread the word to all their friends, from horse show to horse show, Stransky and Jose Fernando Bonetti walk the course in their country to country. I think they are not only the next generation of Step by Step jackets Photo by Liliane Stransky/Step by Step stars in the show ring; but also the philanthropists of the future.” “When I am able to win on any of my horses, it means so much Karolyi at Hollow Creek Farm in Aiken, South Carolina, added, more than just a ribbon and trophy,” explained Daniela, who has “For me, being part of a team like this makes me feel I am actually represented the charity here and also in South America and making a real difference in kids lives who are less fortunate than Europe. “It is great when I win,” added her stable mate, Jose F. myself.” Bonetti, 15, who hails from the Dominican Republic and carries Not all of the riders are juniors and the roster boasts leading the torch for the charity. adults, amateurs and professionals. Supporters of the charity Venezuelan rider Emanuel Andrade, 15, who trains with Angel include many bold faced names from the Grand Prix ranks, including Olympic veteran Margie Engle, Jimmy Torano, Hillary Dobbs, Hector Florentino, Alejandro Karolyi, Kate Levy, Juan Oritz and Diego Muyshondt. “The equestrian community is an international one,” stated Margie, a 10 time AGA Rider of the Year and Step By Step Board Member. “We want to support children from all countries who need our assistance, especially children with disabilities.” The grassroots program is truly youth driven and many of the younger riders have reached out to Liliane to be a part of the “Team” via Facebook. “There isn’t a fee involved and all that we ask is that they have a true desire to make a change in the world. We provide the riders with the Step by Step logo for their jackets and saddle pads.” “Coming from a Haitian background,” explained Krystoff Carvonas, a 21 year old Amateur Owner jumper rider from Haiti who trains with Jimmy Torano at Jet Show Stables, “I was intrigued by the work that Liliane (Stransky) was doing to help the kids in need in my country.” In or out of the saddle, on or off a horse, the members of “Team Liliane Stransky, left, the President and founder of the Step by Step by Step” are working hard to make a difference, one jump, Step Foundation and grand prix rider and Step by Step Board one class, one dollar, one child, at a time! For more information, Member Margie Engle Photo by Step by Step visit www.stepbystepfoundation.com. 44 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Dana’s Doodles

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 45 www.danasdoddles.com 46 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 47 eMy Story A Poetic Journey What are the odds that an amateur rider mom and her junior rider daughter who were looking to purchase their first horse would find a future Junior Hunter USEF Horse of the Year on their first ever horse buying trip to Europe? Pretty darn high. But that is precisely what happened.

By Elizabeth Boylan

In October 2007, Maggie’s father convinced us to take a trip to Europe to try to find her a horse. I give him full credit for that, because I wasn’t sure I was experienced enough buying horses to pick a horse for Maggie on my own, especially in Europe. I didn’t know anybody there and had heard lots of stories of Americans being “had” while shopping there. There is no opportunity, obviously, to take a horse home and try it and you will jump it over perhaps a couple of different types of obstacles but most likely just rails and then have to make up your mind. And there is always the question of whether or not the seller is trying to sell you a horse with some hidden problem that you will discover once you get him home. “Just go,” Maggie’s father said. “Trust yourself. You know a Elizabeth (left) and Maggie with Poetic, fondly referred to as good horse when you see it.” “Three Shoes” Photo by Melanie Garnett Maggie was 15 and had just finished a lease on a children’s/ junior hunter that had introduced her to the 3’6” hunters; but she needed to start doing the equitation to up her game. She had The Search for the Right Horse gotten a late start in her showing career and had a lot of ground Our flight landed in Amsterdam about 5 hours behind schedule to make up. A friend of ours in the horse business recommended due to mechanical problems so the day of horse shopping was someone to us who lived in Belgium and could help us find some already in trouble. We rented a car and drove about an hour and a potential horses to consider. He was said to be a good horseman, half to meet Paul, the professional who was to help us. He told us honest and knowledgeable and spoke perfect English. We booked we were to look at a couple of equitation type horses before going our flights. to the next stop. The horses there were fine. Maggie was clearly a little nervous getting on horses she had never ridden before and jumping them around courses with lots of Europeans watching her; but she managed. I did the video taping and then we got in our car and went to the next stable. By the fourth stop it was past dinner time, almost 7:30 and starting to get dark. We had one more horse to look at and it was just across the Dutch border in Belgium. Paul hadn’t seen the horse before but a friend of his had seen it show a few weeks earlier and said it was a nice horse. He warned us though that the horse was more expensive than what we had told him we wanted to spend and that it was a very tall horse - over 17 hands and he might be too big for Maggie. We had seen a couple of nice horses so far but nothing we had fallen in love with so we decided to look at this last horse, just in case. We arrived at a very old, large barn and were informed the horse we were to look at had lost a hind shoe that day and they had not been able to get it put back on. We were going to have to try him with three shoes or not try him at all. They led him to an indoor which was quite large but had only one small light hanging from the ceiling and one lone oxer in the middle of the ring with a couple of rails on it. This should be interesting, I thought. Poetic shows off his classic hunter low sweeping trot A girl who worked at the stable got on him first. As soon as Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography she picked up the trot, my eyes got big - it was the classic hunter 48 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE low, sweeping trot, but when she picked up the canter - I knew. Normally I don’t like really big horses but this horse was so light on his feet he just skimmed the ground. The canter was beautiful - he covered the ground effortlessly and stayed light in her hand. She jumped the jump a couple of times - and in typical European style they had it at 4 foot after the third jump. His jump was a little quick and flat which was to be expected considering what he had been doing; but if it could be improved he would be something special. Maggie got on him and rode him around. She jumped him over the jump a couple of times. She wasn’t in love with him at this point. He didn’t seem that pretty to her - just a plain bay horse in an ugly bridle. I really liked him but knew she needed to jump him over more than one jump. We asked if we could come back the next morning and try him over a course of jumps in the daylight so we could make up our mind. They agreed.

Still Only Three Shoes When we arrived the next morning, the horse we had nicknamed “Three Shoes” because we didn’t know his name, Poetic and Maggie still only had three shoes on. And the “ring” was literally a Photo by James Parker/The Book LLC slippery mud hole with three rickety jumps in it and a couple of railroad ties to pop over. Normally I wouldn’t even ride a horse Grand Champion Junior Hunter earning more points than any in footing like that but we couldn’t possibly consider going over other junior hunter in all age groups and sizes. It was an amazing budget on a horse after just jumping a single jump, even though final junior year for Maggie, with Poetic taking her to the top of her he had me sold after the canter. Maggie jumped him around the sport. little jumps a couple of times and we called it quits before he hurt In 2011, Maggie and “Three Shoes” competed lightly at WEF himself. The decision would have to be made off of my instinct and in the Amateur Owner hunters as she commuted back and forth what we saw the night before, and Paul’s knowledge of the horse. from college in Texas and then won all 10 classes in the Amateur- We spent two more days looking at horses but we never saw Owners over the two weeks of showing at Old Salem in May. She another one that gave me the same impression “Three Shoes” was Grand Champion both weeks and then went on to Champion did. I told Maggie I thought he was the one - a diamond in the at Fairfield, Lake Placid and HITS. She competed at USHJA rough. Derby Finals and then finished up the year with a Championship A month later, as we waited at the quarantine station in at the Washington International Horse Show. Newburgh, New York for him to be led out to our trailer, it seemed Maggie has turned professional so her future plans for Poetic like it had taken forever to get him vetted, purchased and shipped are to compete mainly in the hunter derbies and then perhaps let over. What came through the door was a horse that was much me, her mom, have a few rounds in the Adult Hunters on him to prettier than we had remembered, and even taller, if that was complete that journey that started almost five years ago in a dark possible. We chose the name “Poetic” for him - partly because barn in Belgium, with three shoes on. One might call that poetic when I had looked at his passport in the dark of his Belgian barn justice. and because I didn’t have my glasses on it looked like his mothers name was “Poem” (when it fact it was “Paem”) and because I About the writer: Elizabeth Boylan grew up in Maryland and thought his movement was poetry in motion. foxhunted for the early part of her horse life. After graduating Maggie and Poetic went on to be Circuit Champion at the Winter from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. she moved to Equestrian Festival in the children’s hunters that first winter she New York City where she worked in pubic relations and sports had him, even though she moved up to the junior hunters by mid- marketing before ending her career to raise two children, Maggie circuit. He won the first junior hunter under saddle class he ever and Michael, and showed in at WEF, so I knew my instincts on his movement were become involved in right but he still needed some improvement in his jump. showing horses and Maggie was competing him more in the equitation division that dogs. summer of 2008 since her trainer at that time felt it was important “My Story” is a first for her to do the equitation and thought his jumping style still person account of wasn’t good enough to be the winner in the hunters. She showed life in the equestrian him in the Medal and Maclay finals in 2008 and 2009; but then world. Would you Maggie started training with Val Renin and she agreed with me like to write your that he could be very successful in the hunters. Val thought that story for Sidelines showing him in the equitation division was not doing his jump any Magazine? To be service and so together Val and Maggie turned him into a top considered, send a winning junior hunter. brief description of your story to editor@ Horse of the Year sidelinesnews.com. At WEF in 2010, he was champion three times, reserve champion three times, won seven under saddle classes and won Poetic and his the Large Junior Hunter 16-17 Circuit Championship. He went on award-winning jump to be champion 10 times that year, including Capital Challenge Photo by James Parker/ and the National Horse Show. He was named the 2010 USEF The Book LLC FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 49 eDressage at Devon Where Champions Meet DVCTA’s Quadrille will perform “Think Pink” with all new choreography, costumes and music at 2012 Dressage at Devon. Shown here, the 2011 Quadrille who paid tribute to the “Heroes of 9/11” Photo Courtesy of DVCTA

By Lauren R. Giannini London Olympian Adrienne Lyle competes This “high school” competition known as Dressage at Devon at the 2011 Dressage at (DAD) owes its inception to a group of enthusiasts who, in 1965, Devon in the rain formed the Delaware Valley Combined Training Association Photo by SusanJStickle.com (DVCTA). In 1975, those early club members organized an annual dressage show that moved to the historic Devon show grounds on performance days. where DAD has grown into a prestigious and unique show with However, on Sunday its three-day spotlight on breeding with classes for more than 30 after the conclusion of breeds and four days of performance under saddle from Thursday competition classes in to Sunday. the Dixon Oval, this Olympic medalist Robert Dover calls Dressage at Devon, “The trainer and his horses standard by which all American horse shows should be judged.” cut loose and strut their This year the forecast calls for more than 700 horses and 35,000 stuff in the big arena. Anne Moss, president of DVCTA spectators. and DAD volunteer, encourages everyone to stop by Sunday It’s boggling how much there is to enjoy at Dressage at Devon. afternoon and enjoy this wildly entertaining show. The Festival Shops offer everything from antiques, art, jewelry On Wednesday, September 26, 7-9 pm, Jo Anne Kricker, and fine apparel to tack and riding kit. Plus, DAD has a reputation Maryland Park Services Ranger and member of the Fair Hill for some of the best food to be savored anywhere in the show Mounted Patrol in Elkton, will present “You Are Responsible For world. In the rings the action is world class as future champions Your Horse’s Safety.” Jo Anne, who is certified in Technical Large are chosen for their conformation and movement from babies Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER), emphasizes that “Most up to mature equines. Riders and horses perform tests on every accidents involving large animal rescue can be prevented by level and the ever popular freestyles illustrate dressage’s dancing educating owners of the hazards and how to prevent them.” Her on horseback, which fires up the passions of participants and informative forum includes the checklist for stocking an emergency spectators. kit that should be kept up to date in every trailer. Dressage With The Experts is a great feature: for a reasonable Back by popular demand: DVCTA’s Quadrille team will fee you can rent a headset and listen to commentary by some of perform their new musical ride from Friday through Sunday. the world’s foremost experts during the tests. Matching comments Choreographed by Anne Miller, riders must be able to ride all to movements is like auditing a clinic, but much better because of Third Level movements. Tryouts are held and you don’t need to the competitive angle. own a horse to participate (in case you’re in that area and want to Special events include Guy McLean, the popular Australian get involved). Last year, several riders used horses provided by horse trainer now based in Texas, who demonstrates various DVCTA members when the Quadrille paid tribute to the Heroes of 9/11. A horse from “This is my passion, I freelance, creating custom freestyles Hilltop Farm for dressage riders,” stated Anne Miller, a mother of three and shows off enthusiastic member of DVCTA who has shown to Fourth Level. their style at “Last year Anne Moss approached me about doing it and we Dressage at had all adult women who had more fun than the kids! We’re very Devon excited about performing again this year at Dressage at Devon. Photo by The theme is “Think Pink” – to raise breast cancer awareness – SusanJStickle. com and the music, choreography and costumes are all new and all exciting!” Remember: that sign over the gate to the Dixon Oval says it all, “Where Champions Meet”! For more information visit www. dressageatdevon.org. 50 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 51 e

Junior

By April Leonard

Lauren Steiner may only be 17 years old; but she’s already making a name for herself in the horse show world. This teen from Germantown, Tennessee, competes in equitation, jumping and hunters across the United States. The long list of shows she has competedLauren in includes Gulf Coast Steiner Classics, Spring Time in Dixie, Aims High Nashville Classic and Devon. This year at both the Nashville Country Horse Show and the Germantown Charity Horse Show, Lauren won the Low Junior A/O Jumper Championship. When Lauren was six years old, her mother took her to a barn down the street to experience riding a horse. Lauren immediately fell in love with riding and began competing at age eight. Two years ago, Lauren added equitation to her showing career. Although all of Lauren’s older siblings were also introduced to riding at a young age, Lauren is the only one who became passionate about the sport and stuck with it. Both her parents enjoy riding as well and occasionally take trail rides with friends. “It’s more of a leisurely sport in my family,” Lauren explains. Not for Lauren, though. While many teens her age are in search of an interest that they can build their futures around, Lauren’s love for horses does not leave much questioning to be done. When asked what her goals are, she replied “Short term or long term?” and had an answer for both. Lauren first plans to find a horse that can help her to do well in the grand prix. After competing in the grand prix, the young rider will work even harder to train for her dream horse show - the Olympics. Despite all the time that Lauren spends at horse shows and her plans to tackle more prestigious shows in the future, the competition aspect of Lauren Steiner

riding is not what she is truly in love with. Her favorite thing about competing is getting the chance to jump a challenging course. Her least favorite part of a show, “Actually having to compete with other people,” she admits. “But jumping the courses is always really fun!” At home, Lauren is surrounded by a wide variety of horses. She leases an equitation horse and her family owns five miniature horses, three ponies, two horses and one donkey. Lauren has shown on all of her ponies and horses at some point and still owns her very first two ponies, who are both for lease. Taking a horse on a ride through a field is one of her favorite non competitive activities. More than any other horse, Lauren loves riding Charlie Brown, her 20 year old Holsteiner. “He’s never boring and is an all around horse who can do anything”, she says. To reward Charlie Brown for a good ride, Lauren likes to bring him his favorite treat - bananas! When riding is done for the day, Lauren might be found doing her favorite barn chore - cleaning tack - or baking homemade treats for her horses. She also spends a lot of time at school; either in classes, running cross-country or playing lacrosse. Next year will be her senior year and Lauren is thinking about becoming a veterinarian so she can continue to work with horses when she isn’t riding. She is also considering attending a college with a riding team. Overall, Lauren knows one thing for certain about her future. “I will always want to ride!” So whether you see Lauren working in a veterinarian’s office or riding at the top of the sport in international show rings, this young rider has much more to bring to the equestrian world.

52 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 53 eOff Centerline Hats off to Super Mom Carol Cohen who amassed a slew of sponsors for the Region 3 Junior Young Riders team. Thanks to Carol’s canvassing, the Region 3 Team headed off to Kentucky for the NAJYRC in style. Thanks goes out to the team rider’s families, Ralph Lauren, International Polo Club, Polo Gear USA, The Tackeria, Stillpoint Farm, Owls Roost Farm, Two Swans Farm, Larsen Farms, Guardian Bedding and the ShowChic Dressage Boutique for their support.

Travel seems to be the key word this summer as everyone is coming and going. Shannon Dueck was out in California hosting clinics at the Western States Horse Expo on behalf of her sponsors Olympic Predictions: (left to right) Michele Hundt from Vita Flex. Word is that Lily Zilo is heading to the Netherlands ShowChic, Olympian Lars Petersen, Crystalann Shingler of with LionShare trainer, Endel Ots for a horse shopping spree. ShowChic and Olympian Bent Jensen Meanwhile Cesar Parra was rumored to have visited Europe earlier this summer and has two exciting new prospects flying back to the Fun in Olympic proportions! A few weeks prior to the Olympics, hosted an Olympic predictions night with US soon. And we also know that Choice of Champion’s, Allyn ShowChic Olympic dressage riders and . Maix is packing her bags and heading to the Dublin Horseshow Bent Jensen Lars Petersen in Ireland. Bent and Lars made predictions on which horse and rider combinations might win individual medals, as well as which countries might take home the team medals and shared their Stateside, we heard that trainer/judge, Lisa Hyslop’s husband, own Olympic experiences. Guests were able to make their Beck (Red Barn) Hyslop took her to a real dive for her birthday in July. Actually the couple went scuba diving to celebrate! own predictions and submitted them for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to ShowChic. Look for an announcement Meanwhile Tuny Page spent her 4th of July birthday with family in Washington state, while her homies watched the sky light up at of the winners on the Sidelines Facebook page. International Polo Club with Marty and Marcy Freedman (Owls Roost Farm), Tim and Kim Williamson (Five Star), Carol and Rebecca Cohen (Two Swans Farm), Michele and Doug Hundt (Show Chic) and Christine and Erol Pinto name just a few!

Speaking of Birthday’s Equine Attorney Barbara Richardson was the victim of a surprise birthday party at Dance Hall Farm - the culprits were her son Justin and friend Sue Sands. Her birthday soirée ended late into the evening with Shannon and Lorne Dueck and Third Level dressage diva Deb Hilton the very last to leave!

Johnny Robb’s new horse Delicioso Interagro (barn name Yummy) meets Peanut after the trip from Brazil to Florida!

Nicolas Torres Rodriguez and Dr. Cesar Parra

Congratulations to Nicolas Torres Rodriguez on getting to see the Columbian flag wave at NAJYRC! Nicolas, of Columbia, who rides with Dr. Cesar Parra, rode Silver Label PR guru Johnny Robb has a new sweetheart! During a to win the FEI Junior Team Test with a 70.027% toping the trip to Brazil to visit Interagro Lusitanos, Johnny fell in love field of 36 riders at the North American Junior Young Riders with a gorgeous Lusitano named Delicioso Interagro. He Championships in Lexington Kentucky. Cesar rode for has arrived at Johnny’s farm in Florida and Johnny is looking Columbia before becoming a U.S. citizen and riding for the forward to riding off into the sunset with her new fellow. U.S. on the Pan Am Gold Team.

54 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 55 56 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 57 Tribute to an Olympic Family

By Lauren R. Giannini

No rider, however great, gets to the international level in any discipline without help. This support comes from sponsors providing goods or finances, owners and anyone willing to contribute funding for your competitive aspirations. The daily routine maintenance of a horse can be expensive. If you are serious about competing, factor in beaucoup bucks for entry fees, ongoing training with specialists in dressage, cross-country and show jumping, travel, lodging, food, equipment, tack, proper attire, veterinary care, special feeds and supplements, etcetera. The higher the aspirations, the greater the cost and professionals with students and/or a barn full of training and sales horses must divert time from income-producing work in order to pursue that Olympic dream. Financial support from an individual or group “angel” can mean a world of difference to an equestrian. In eventing circles, certain names spring to mind: Jacqueline Mars, Annie Jones, Bruce Duchossois, Joan Goswell, the late great Richard and Vita Thompson and the various syndicates, such as Team Rebecca, LLC and several names for actual horses. Their horses have partnered with some of our great riders, including Jimmy Wofford, Phillip Dutton, David and Karen O’Connor – there isn’t room to list all of them. These owners have cheered their horses and riders around the world and savored the nectar of Olympic, Pan American or World Equestrian Games glory.

Arden Wildasin and Il Vici, one of her Intermediate rides Right now, two of the horses on the United States Three-Day Eventing team for London are first time Olympians. Both are owned by the Wildasins of Virginia. The father-daughter team of Jim and Arden Wildasin own Mystery Whisper, ridden by the veteran Olympic medalist Phillip Dutton. Jim owns Twizzel, partnered with first time Olympic contender Will Coleman. Jim and Arden, aided and abetted by Sarah Wildasin, wife and mother in the family dynamic, can be considered the dark horse in the quest for Olympic glory. “Horses have to love what they’re doing and have the physical skills to accomplish it,” stated Jim, who rode once as a youngster in Australia and didn’t get back in the saddle for about 30 years. “Twizzel belongs at that level – he knows when it’s cross-country day and becomes a completely different horse.” Jim has owned Twizzel for four years, which adds great familiarity to their connection. Whisper, bought last November from Heath Ryan in Australia, may be a new entity, but proved himself by winning three three-stars in the first five months of 2012, thereby advancing rapidly to the upper levels and catching the interest of the United States Three-Day Olympic team selectors. Jim Wildasin and his very own Benjamin Button The Wildasins “get” the equestrian triathlon. While Jim rides 58 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE for fun (he finally has his own horse, Benjamin Button), Sarah is an enthusiastic foxhunter and pleasure rider who hunts with several different packs in Virginia and in Aiken, South Carolina. Because Arden, 18, trains with Phillip Dutton who winters in Aiken, the Wildasins snowbird there with all their horses who, they emphasize, are members of their family. This leads to a dynamic that provides an ideal situation for a rider/trainer intent on competing on the international stage. “I feel the horses should only be run if they’re ready, that the rider should be ready and being “qualified” doesn’t necessarily mean ready,” stated Jim. “One reason why Arden has multiple horses is a safety thing. If she has two or three rides, she’s that much more experienced each time she leaves the start to go around that particular cross-country. We’re very fortunate that Arden has the opportunity to ride several horses.”

Sarah Wildasin cracks up as Clio, the character-building pony that started it all, tries to break out

Mystery Whisper and Phillip Dutton, shown here at Pine Top (GA) in February, before the partnership took off like a rocket Photo by Beth Harpham/Equidigital.com Ask a member of the Wildasin family or anyone who knows Arden and they will tell you that she works really hard, respects the horses, and she’s home schooled, which allows her to spend more time doing what she has loved for the past five years. She also reaps the benefits of topnotch training. “It isn’t an accident that the two people who have our horses are Will and Phillip,” said Jim. “What we respect about both Will and Phillip is their exceptional horsemanship. Right now, with both of them making the team, there’s a lot of excitement in the family.” According to Arden, Phillip as a coach doesn’t say much; but what he says really means something. “I don’t think I’d be where I am now without him,” she said. “I see him as a second father. I go cross-country and he says do this; I trust him. Every competition is about learning. I’m just really lucky that my parents are so supportive. My goal is to ride in as many four-stars around the world as possible. Right now I can’t wait to go over to the Olympics and be behind the scenes. We’re all thinking so positively. We’re hoping for the best. We want the horses to do really well and come home safely and we want to feel proud that we tried our hardest.” Rarely put into words, but as obvious as the elephant in the room, is that the Wildasin family’s positive thinking and hopes Twizzel and Will Coleman at Rolex Kentucky CCI**** 2012 - include a trip to the podium. en route to two double clear rounds, cross-country and show “It’s a great team,” said Arden. “We’re very excited.” jumping, writing their ticket to London Photos: All photos by Lauren R. Giannini, unless noted FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 59 eDressage Adrienne Lyle First Time Olympian Living the Dream

By Lauren R. Giannini

Seven years ago, Adrienne Lyle, 27, cut short her college education to sign on as a working student with Debbie McDonald which led to a partnership with a horse named Wizard. In 2011, at Dressage at Devon, Adrienne and Wizard won both the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Freestyle. Now she’s living her dream, having made the US dressage team as an individual for the London Olympics.

Why do you get along so well with Wizard? A key to Wizard is understanding his emotions. He can get very strong and aggressive when he’s feeling a little overwhelmed or intimidated. He kind of lashes out and you can’t come back at him with strength or get upset about it or else the problem escalates. You have to take him back to something that gets his attention on you, something that restores his confidence and gets him feeling relaxed and happy so that he’s back working for you again. Another thing: you can’t take it personally. He’s a temperamental horse, and you know that. You don’t get mad, you say, ‘Oh well, I gotta figure out a way to make it better.’ On their way to London: Adrienne and Wizard winning the West Did you lose your cool when you realized you had a Palm Beach 5* in Wellington during the winter circuit chance to make the team? Photo by SusanJStickle.com Absolutely! We came to Florida this year and had the most successful season we’ve ever had. I was really excited and What did Debbie give you as your mentor and trainer? thought maybe we had a shot, coming into the trials, but of The biggest thing is that Debbie believed in me and was course with horses you never know. You just take the training generous enough to give me a chance. Her sponsor, Parry one day at a time and never plan anything too far ahead. Going and Peggy Thomas, had really nice horses and even schooling to Florida definitely gave me a bit of a confidence boost by the them at home at first was huge for me. I had never sat on horses quality of the shows there and the competitors, the number of of that quality before. Debbie totally puts her heart and soul competitors, the international judges and the venue. I felt I was into everything. She doesn’t just show up, teach you a lesson more prepared going into Gladstone this year for the selections and leave. She taught me the whole package: what it takes to trials than in past years. manage the horses and a barn, veterinary knowledge and skill, the way you start training young horses all the way up to grand When you rode Western at home as a child, did you prix, how to handle PR, working with sponsors, all that stuff, think about riding internationally? because it takes all of that to get to the top level. Just having From the first time I saw top level dressage horses; I was a nice horse isn’t going to cut it. Debbie was instrumental in absolutely fascinated and fell in love with it. That was always helping me learn the ropes and find that support system. The my dream; but it seemed like such a pipe dream. These horses Thomas family gave me this amazing opportunity and believed were so out of this world to me and it seemed like a horse like enough in me to let me ride Wizard. I am eternally grateful to that would never materialize for me. I was around nine when everyone at River Grove Farm for the amazing support they I started eventing and doing my first real dressage shows at have given me. age 13. That’s when I knew for a fact that I wanted to be a dressage trainer and that’s what I wanted to do with my life. Are you okay – win, lose or draw? My parents, Ann and Greg Lyle, are amazing. They never have Of course, but you want the process to end by doing well. been pushy horse show parents. If anything, I had to push for When I first started competing, winning wasn’t the biggest goal it a little. It always had to be my thing. They were happy to let for me. It was about the training. I’m here to compete and do me have horses; but it was me taking care of them, me paying the best I can; but it’s the whole process that I am enjoying. for them. They’re just so happy to see me achieve what I have Obviously, I’m training as hard as I can and we want to put in been working for. our personal best test for sure – that’s the goal. 60 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE eMy Line

s By Sarah Ward records so you never can forget a thing (unless of course, you forget to put it in your phone!). There are countless other apps It’s almost time for school to start back up, meaning summer and websites to keep me updated and busy enough until the day shows are wrapping up and most of the kids are rushing to I’m back in the saddle. Think about the wonders of technology; finish their summer reading. It’s so strange to me that I no you can make your entries via your phone, find out the order longerTechnology have to worry about that; but instead KeepsI am dreading my of go,Me learn about Going everyone from the judges to the competition, 21 hour course load for the fall semester! get directions to the horse shows or even directions to your This is about the time that I listen to Boys of Summer on favorite food tent on the grounds if you want! Photos and videos repeat while I pack up my bags and head back for classes. This can be sent to loved ones with a click of the button…about the year is different from all the rest for me, as I will not be able only thing that technology can’t get in the way of is the actual to ride until at least December (if I listen to my doctor, which I thrill of being on your horse as you stride round the ring at a have learned over time, is probably for the best), meaning that nice pace and meet every fence correctly. There is no software I will be missing Derby Finals and Indoors. However, I will be program or app that watching from the sidelines as my sweet boy Onassis shows can compete with that! with Liza Towell. Hopefully I will be able to miss class so I can Some of my favorite be in Kentucky; but regrettably my course load will probably websites are the force me to stay home. While that is frustrating, technology will obvious -- Sidelines, keep me from missing any of the action. Chronicle of the Nowadays, most of the big classes are broadcast online Horse, Phelps Sports, somewhere – so while I won’t be sitting in the stands, I’ll still USEF and Practical be able to be there in some way or another. I suppose this is Horseman. I also like to the way that I will make it through until I can be on the back of get on ShowNet, Horse a horse again! Shows Online and any How anyone lived without the Internet or smart phones is of the photography completely beyond me, because I, for one, would be totally lost. websites to keep up One thing that I have found really comes in handy, especially to date on everything! for trainers, is the USHJA iPhone application that gives you What are some of your anything and everything you need to know at a horse show. favorite websites and There are also applications to keep track of your horses’ apps?

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 61 e

West Side Story

Common Ground

The Stuart Girls Photo by Jose Lopez

By Holly Hugo-Vidal truly had a passion for. She successfully shows her young horse Marzocco in the older, small junior hunter division and has been Savanah, Mikayla and Jillian Stuart are three sisters who not very successful in the Southern California double A shows. Her only ride but are also extremely passionate, focused, dedicated, sights are on indoors! talented as well as supportive of each other. I wanted to write Mikayla, who had been a natural and very competent gymnast, about them, because this family really is a team! became enthralled with horses as she watched her older sister When the girls win prize money (which happens often) it gets ride and immediately made the transition to riding. She really liked divided among all three girls and goes into their savings accounts, the relationship with the horse and preferred being outdoors rath- which the girls manage. That is only a small ingredient that makes er than in the gym. Mikayla, now 14, recently got a new horse, up the “team” attitude. The girls all root for each other, whether Verdana, and competes in the children’s hunter division. it’s a big win, a new horse or a huge accomplishment of a sought And last, but not least, the youngest member of the team is after goal. I think that the fact that they are all on common ground Jillian. At only 10, she has the same dedication and focus as her helps, as opposed to being in different sports or simply having two older sisters. Jillian has been riding for about five years and different interests. is a very accomplished pony rider. Her small pony, Prima Balle- The Stuart family lives in Rancho Santa Fe, California and the rina, has been champion many times as well as circuit champion horses live at home. The girls’ mother, Candace, likes having at Thermal in 2011. Jillian would like to be in the top 15 at Pony them at home for many reasons. “I feel like a mother hen, not only Finals as well as in the top 20 nationally. Jillian also catch rides can I watch them but I feel that we can do whatever it takes to ponies for Mokoto Farm. keep them safe and sound. Not that a good boarding barn couldn’t In talking with Candace it’s apparent that a positive attitude is do the same, it just gives me a good feeling to have them here. not only evident, but also required. “We make a point to surround At night the girls and my husband and I go down to the barn and the girls with good people as much as possible and my husband check on the horses as well as give treats. We never miss a night and I are very polite to each other and stress the importance of and the girls love this part of their relationship with the horses,” treating others as we would like to be treated.” This is very evident Candace said. in all three girls. The girls have ridden with Alicia Saxton, of Oceancrest Farms, After talking with the girls about people they most admire in the for three years. “Alicia’s barn is right down the road and she horse world, I was most impressed when Savanah said she ad- comes over to teach the girls several times a week. I also really mired her trainer, Alicia, because of her dedication, honesty and enjoy watching the girls practice what they have worked on in pre- hard work as well as the fact that she always puts the best inter- vious lessons, which I wouldn’t be able to do if we didn’t have the ests of her riders first. High praises indeed from a student! horses at home,” Candace added. Savanah, 16, the oldest of the three sisters became interested About the writer: Holly Hugo-Vidal is Sidelines’ California corre- in horses when she was 10. It was after a brief gymnastics ef- spondent and writes the “West Side Story” column. Holly is based fort, followed by another effort at dance, that she tried riding. Her at Alicia Saxton’s Oceancrest Farms in Rancho Santa Fe, Califor- slim, long legs graced the back of a horse more than the mats nia. Holly specializes in hunters and equitation as well as adults. of the gym and its trappings and the relationship with the horses She is an “R” USEF judge, clinician and an author. Her most re- exceeded dancing. Her calm, methodical temperament suited the cent book is Build Confidence Over Fences. horses and Savanah immediately knew this was something she 62 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE eSports Psychology A Key Mental Characteristic of Superior Athletes By Ann S. Reilly, Ph.D.

This column is dedicated to Sarah Greenhalgh, who was senselessly murdered Monday, July 9, 2012 in her home in Upperville, Virginia. Sarah was a vivacious spirit, who always was herself. The following quote by Steve Jobs, personifies the way Sarah lived her life. Unlike Jobs, Sarah did not know her life would be limited. Sarah loved life and lived the way she wanted to. Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary. The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. --The late Steve Jobs, Co-Founder and CEO of Apple

Becoming the person whom you want to be is not an easy endeavor. Superior athletes have learned how to ignore the pressure from others’ expectations and follow their inner destiny. Often, pressure from others prevents us from developing the ability to listen to our own inner voice. You may hear others telling you what you should or should not do and not have a clue to what your own inner voice is guiding you to become. From an early age, parents can encourage their children to listen to their inner voice by asking them what that voice is saying about them. Usually, it is the parent, teacher, other family members, or friends who are the false inner voices of children. It is especially important, starting at the age of 8 or 9 years, to teach your children how to listen to their inner voice. By doing so, your child will develop independent thought, confidence, trust in him/herself and the ability to follow their heart and intuitions. When children are allowed to do these things, they become happy, healthy, creative human beings. It does not matter how old you are: today is the first day of the rest of your life. You can make the choice to listen to your inner voice and live the rest of your life following your heart, soul and intuition. Take 20 minutes out of your day, sit quietly in a place where you feel connected with nature - by a tree, stream, pond, or with water in a bath or shower. Clear your mind and focus on connecting with your true, authentic self. Don’t force it. Just be quiet and listen. At first you may hear nothing at all; but as you do this daily you will become connected to your inner self, this quiet time will guide you to the connection with your heart, soul and intuitions - ultimately to the person you truly are. Muster up the courage to experiment while following your intuition and inner voice. You make the choices that you believe are right for you. Through this process you will learn a lot about Continued on page 65 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 63 e

Second Chances

By Courtney Zimmerman

Laurie Blakelock-Rodriguez rescued New Fandan, known as Danny around the barn, in January of 2011 from Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue - a short time after she was diagnosed with breast Thecancer. What she Prescription didn’t realize was that Danny was actually the of a Lifetime one rescuing her. Laurie was desperate for a project to work on to divert her attention away from her breast cancer and ventured to Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue, located in Loxahatchee, Florida. She trolled through the barns, with a horse already in mind, when she spotted Danny nickering to her as she opened the gate. Her biggest draw to him was that he was calm, had great ground manners and she could easily control him. As a former hunter jumper rider who faded out of the riding scene when she began college, Laurie needed a riding prospect that was tolerant and respectful for her segue back into casual riding and Danny was the perfect fit. Danny is a racehorse that traveled quite a bit during his career; bred in Brazil, he raced there as a 3 and 4 year old until he went to Gulfstream as a 5 year old to train under David Fawkes. He raced at Belmont and Santa Anita and in 2009 won the John Henry Stakes as a 20-1 long shot; he rallied from last place to first, catapulting himself into prominence as a 6 year old gelding. Danny was living the high life at that point - until he was injured. Laurie, a blue ribbon and Danny – a winning prescription! He retired from racing in February 2010 after 31 starts and was Photo by Jennifer Swanson rehabilitated at Celia Fawkes’ barn, wife of Danny’s previous Although an ex-racehorse, Danny has blossomed into a trainer, until December 2010. Danny was sent to Pure Thoughts wonderful and willing jumper. He began as a young, green jumper; Horse Rescue where he would then meet Laurie and begin but it is evident that Danny loves what he does. On trail rides, his second career as her hunter jumper prospect and personal he jumps ravines instead of walking down them and in the ring therapy horse and rehabilitator – her savior. he jumps fences with 12 inches to spare. One day while riding Danny, Laurie fell off and fractured her pelvis in 3 places. While she recovered, she decided to pass Danny along to somebody who could really unleash his potential and that is when Laurie connected with trainer Heather Callahan of Atlantic Crossing Stables. Heather and Danny have made a phenomenal team and Laurie loves to watch them sail over a jump course; she proclaims it is as enjoyable to observe Heather and Danny as it is to ride Danny herself, almost like watching her own child. Laurie rides Danny about three to four times a week; but the week before a show she will let Heather and Danny “jell together” to help them prepare. Heather and Laurie took Danny to the Wellington Schooling Shows in May and June and Danny won Champion, winning all of the intermediate jumping classes. He has adapted very well to his new job! Laurie’s husband is a cardiologist and says that he couldn’t have prescribed any better medication for her pathway to recovery. Danny is Laurie’s biggest salvation and has brought a lot of happiness in her life. “Horses are just wonderful gifts,” Laurie asserts. “After having cancer, people often think about life as in, ‘before I had cancer or after I was diagnosed.’ I prefer to think of my life as ‘before Danny or after I found him.’ I NEVER would have had Danny if I hadn’t had breast cancer, so you never know what is in store for you when you go through challenges in life. I truly think God brought him into my life, and like my husband says, he has been better than any medicine he could ever have prescribed!” I guess we will never truly know who rescued whom; A smiling Laurie with her rescue horse Danny it seems like Laurie and Danny have both rescued each other and Photo by John Eisinger neither could be happier. 64 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE yourself. You may also make mistakes through this process. In life there really are no mistakes, there are only learnings. Ignore the criticism you may receive from others when you make mistakes, listen to your intuition and inner voice and continue on your path. And remember, we learn more from our mistakes than doing things perfectly. At this point you may be saying to yourself, “How does this apply to successful performance?” Well, the most successful athletes have learned that trainers and advice from others is important in the training process; but the truly great athletes know that in order to perform well, they must listen to their inner voice when competing, trusting in their instincts to make the right decisions which leads them to greatness. There are plenty of superstar athletes who have never had much formal training. These athletes are very good performers because through trial and error, without the mental confusion and criticism of coaches, trainers, parents, friends, etc., they have learned how to perfect their performance on their own. They may spend time watching other great performers and trying the techniques they have watched. Without the restrictions of constantly looking to others for instruction or correction, these superior athletes have become innovators in their techniques. I was fortunate to find what I love to do at an early age - be an equestrian and help other people and animals in need. I have had to develop enormous amounts of strength, courage and determination to stay on this path, while others have tried to push me in other directions. There will always be obstacles in your path. These obstacles test your commitment to listen to your inner voice, intuition and connect with your heart and soul. The obstacles and struggles also build your strength to achieve your dreams. It would have been easy to quit doing sport psychology because it is not a lucrative job. It would have been easy to quit riding because it is expensive and I have an 80 percent legally disabled right leg. Through the good times and bad times, my commitment has always been to follow my intuition, my inner voice and my heart and soul. If you do this, you will have an interesting life, one that you love living. The path least taken is not always the easiest; but it is the most rewarding and meaningful. Beautiful Sarah Greenhalgh and Steve Jobs knew this and lived meaningful, creative, successful lives, just like many superior athletes have done.

Ann S. Reilly, Ph.D. is a sport psychologist and author of “A Sport Psychology Workbook for Riders,” available from amazon. com. Questions for Ms. Reilly’s column can be addressed to [email protected]. FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 65 Supermodels Strut Their Stuff When we called for models in our Sidelines Magazine to share in this issue and if your favorite photo isn’t here it’s Supermodel contest we received hundreds and hundreds of because we simply ran out of room. We were thrilled with all of amazing photos! Our judges had a very difficult decision picking the entries and once again want to thank our sponsors, Kerrits the top four photos but we want to congratulate Eliza Limehouse, Performance Equestrian Apparel, Dyer Equestrian, Dav Rain Jordan Wilcox, Rachel Stroh and Mary Alice Wainscott on riding Boots and Der-Dau Custom Boots, for supplying great prizes. away with the prizes. We picked many of our other favorite photos

Eliza Limehouse of Charleston, South Carolina Rachel Stroh of Thomasville, Georgia – Winner of an outfit from Dyer Equestrian – Winner of the $400 gift certificate toward a pair of Der-Dau In this picture my boyfriend, Kegan Walsh, who is 1.5 goals (I Dream Boots am -1) did a spoof of the Ralph Lauren romance add with Nacho Just hanging out with Foxwater Late Edition at her first frosty morning show. Figueras and his wife! We play lots of polo together in Aiken, She was checking out the sights and sounds of the show while sporting her hip South Carolina and the horse we are on is my baby. His name is plaid scarf. One must always look the part! Rolo and he is an amazing polo pony and foxhunter. Mary Alice Wainscott of Richmond, Virginia – Winner of the child’s outfit from Kerrits Performance Equestrian Apparel My name is Mary Alice Wainscott and I just competed in my first Leadline Class at the Upperville Horse Show on June 9th! I was the youngest in the class and was a little too small to sit in the saddle on my own, so we had to use a basket (I am waiting patiently for my class to begin in the basket in this picture), which is a family antique! So cool! Jordan Wilcox of Lexington, Kentucky My mother competed – Winner of a pair of Dav Rain Boots at this horse show as Spending time with my horse is the highlight of my day, everyday. And a junior and it was very when I have a chance to get dolled up and take some fun, memorable special for this to be my pictures with him, it doesn’t get much better than that! As you can tell, he very first horse show. can really ham it up! 66 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Torie Bishop of Boca Raton, Florida Lauren Sitler of Douglassville, Pennsylvania

Mandee Widrick of Adams, New York Lauren McGuire of Rochester, New York

Amanda Hauser of Wayzata, Sarah Gasner of Minnesota Whitefish, Montana Cassie Phelps of Peculiar, Missouri Donnelly Gillen of Sophie Warstler Madera, California of Wellington, Florida

Continued on page 68 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 67 More Supermodels! Holly Breaux of Loganville, Georgia Franki and Lexi Cooper of Powell, Ohio

Marketa Matthews of St. Louis, Missouri

Lindsey Scanlon of Palm City, Florida

Leah Perkins of Aiken, South Carolina

Priscilla Godsoe of Nottingham, Pennsylvania Clare Bornstein of Stonington, Connecticut

Jenna Begbie of Martlon, Wanja Gerlach of Ashburn, Virginia New Jersey Continued on page 70 68 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 69 Tristan of Boston, More Supermodels! Virginia

Linsay Edinger of Truxton, New York

Kelly Gage of Lexington, Kentucky

Emily Lance Morgan Millner of Sebastopol, Moore of California Carol Woodruff from Missoula, Montana Leonard, Texas

Amy Savell from Warrenton, Virginia

Maggie Johnston of Middleburg, Virginia

70 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 71 STALLION DIRECTORY

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72 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Sidelines is now available at Chapters/Indigo Bookstores in Canada

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FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 73 e

FactEducation or Fiction Busting the Myths of College Riding

By Sloan Milstein also can work towards certificate programs. Unlike With over 400 college the IHSA, and NCEA and universities offering programs where riders competitive riding randomly draw horses opportunities there will be on which to compete, the one that is right for you. ANRC riders train and But before you make those ride horses from their own campus visits, tour the school. The competition is stables and meet the teams, equitation based and the it is best to understand the format resembles a three- governing organizations of day event with flat testing, college riding. an arena jumping and field jumping phases as well as College riding Today’s History a written test. Currently students are all Lesson: While all college there are 50 plus schools smiles equestrian associations that participate in the ANRC have competitive teams and competitions opportunities to learn, each association was founded on a different set of principles and provides different types of experiences. Fact or Fiction: The NCAA is More Competitive then the Understanding the mission of each association should help you IHSA and the ANRC -- Isn’t It? Fiction! As a former coach of determine if your goals are in sync with theirs. both NCAA IHSA and NCEA athletes, I would attest to that if you take an open level hunt seat rider in any of the organizations, not The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) was only can they hold their own, but they will also be competitive. founded on the principle of access and inclusion. The IHSA, Comparatively, small teams can be as competitive as much larger which offers eight levels of English and six levels of western, teams. riding, encourages individuals with no prior riding experience to participate in equestrian sports, while giving more seasoned riders Fact or Fiction: All NCAA Programs have Scholarships -- affordable options to be competitive at college. The university’s Don’t They? Fiction! Some NCAA schools offer scholarships and Club or Student Affairs Department, similar to the French, Swim other’s do not. Teams that are housed in the athletic department or Debate Club, etc., houses most teams. of Division I programs “may” offer up to 15 full scholarships a year, Lesson barns are secured for training and an instructor is may split them among riders or not offer any scholarships at all. hired to coach the team either through the university or through Division II programs also have the option to offer scholarships but lesson fees paid by team members. The key concept here is very few do so. “participation.” While the majority of IHSA teams work towards qualifying for post-season championships, many riders like the Fact or Fiction: College Coaches are Rude -- Aren’t They? sense of family created from being on the team where upper Myth! NCAA coaches must follow specific recruiting rules of how level riders help the lower level riders both at the barn and at and when they may communicate with riders. Until prospects fully competitions. understand the rules it is always a safe rule of thumb to send an email. While coaches may not be “allowed” to call you back they The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) was “can” respond to your email requests. founded over 100 years ago to “protect” football players, and now An entirely different problem exists with IHSA and ANRC presides over 400,000 student-athletes, in 23 sports. When it coaches. Most IHSA coaches are instructors at a local barn and comes to prospective high school student-athletes, the NCAA is coaching an equestrian team is one of their many responsibilities. responsible for the rules of recruiting and academic qualifications Unlike NCAA coaches most do not receive a year-round salary. as prospects navigate the process. When it comes to competition ANRC coaches can also be an academic professor and due to formats, championships and qualifications, those rules are left to their schedules they often don’t get messages from prospects the National Equestrian College Association (NCEA, formerly during the off-season. If you find yourself seeking information Varsity Equestrian.) The NCAA, which contains both IHSA during the summer use your social media to connect with current and NECA teams, are founded on the premise of creating more team members or alumni to get you started and find out the best opportunities for women as part of a gender equity initiative at the way to reach the coach. university level. Sloan Milstein founded College Riding 101 after four seasons as a Less well known is the American National Riding NCAA Division I and ISHA coach. Her book, The High School Equestrian’s Commission (ANRC) an education-based program emphasizing Guide to College Riding is available at www.collegeriding101.com balance between horse and rider. Riders not only compete, but 74 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Sidelights SmartPak Launches New Mobile Website Now Everyone Can Have a Tack Store Right in Their Pocket!

You’re at a horse show and your horse rips his blanket. What do you do? Simple - reach for the SmartPak tack shop in your pocket! SmartPak, the country’s largest equestrian retailer, has launched a new, improved mobile website that allows quick, easy access to all SmartPak products including saddles, helmets and, of course, supplements. Everyone now has instant access to all SmartPak products anywhere, anytime. “Our customers asked and we answered,” said Kent Phillips, SmartPak’s Senior Director of E-Commerce. “Using new information architecture, we tore down our original website and optimized it from the ground up. We invite everyone to give it a try and you don’t even need to download an app!” Benchmark testing has shown SmartPak’s mobile site to be significantly faster than those of other equine retailers. It is very easy to use and customer feedback has been extremely positive. There are over 73,000 product reviews available and it is instantly accessible from any Smartphone through SmartPak’s main website at www. SmartPak.com. “This improved mobile site is the latest in a line of features that has helped make SmartPak the industry’s number one choice,” Phillips said. “Features like free shipping, free returns, our 100% happiness guarantee, one day embroidery, our around-the-clock expert help, and, needless to say, our SmartPaks, have established SmartPak as the industry leader. Now everyone has instant access to any of our products - whether you need to reorder fly spray, replace a broken halter or order new tall boots, you can get them instantly from the barn aisle, show grounds, or even from the back of your horse!”

About SmartPak Founded in 1999, SmartPak is the country’s largest online and catalog retailer serving the needs of the active and engaged horse owner. The patented SmartPak™ supplement feeding system has simplified the process of feeding horse supplements and medications, making it easier for thousands of riders to keep their horses healthier by ensuring their supplements are being fed correctly. SmartPak’s diverse and expansive product offering includes its own line of supplements, tack and horse blankets as well as an extensive selection of leading brands of equine health, apparel, tack and equipment. For more information on the SmartPak mobile website, and all SmartPak products, visit www.SmartPak.com.

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 75 eNever Too Old Chick and Zeus join Six Times A Charm! the Century Club By Jenny Johnson

Riding for Century Club membership is a very admirable endeavor, but qualifying six times is just remarkable! Charles "Chick" Chapin, of Chatham, Illinois, holds this record for most Century Club rides with The Dressage Foundation. Born in 1921, Chick began riding at the age of 12 when he purchased his first horse, Roany, for $25, which included a saddle and bridle. He rode throughout his teenage years and continued to do so during the war when he played polo at Quantico and rode Mongolian ponies while stationed in China. Chick married Nancy in 1958 and they purchased two horses from a local sale barn. Three children came along and Chick and Nancy started the Sangamon Valley Pony Club when their two daughters began riding. In the years that followed, Chick organized many Pony Club and Horse Trial events and served as a Combined Training Technical Delegate. When the Century Club was first announced in 1996, Chick's daughters did the math and pointed out that he already had two horses ready to qualify. Additionally, they had other horses coming along in age that he could ride when the time came. So it began! In 1997, Chick's first ride was on Chicaro Cocoa, who had previously been a match race horse. Chick's daughters had tried to retrain "Bob" for eventing and dressage; unfortunately, the sight of the other horses reminded him of his race days and he was mounting block to get on. Thank goodness that wasn't in the test!" ready to challenge each of them. Therefore, Bob's showing career Ask Mikey was Chick's final Century Club ride; they became Team wasn't very successful. As he aged, Bob became a well mannered #26 in 2003. pleasure horse for Chick. They became Century Club Team #4 Chick has fond memories of his Century Club rides and all the and Bob didn't try to race the other horses that day. special horses he rode. The horses received loving care in their The same day, Chick and Piroshka also qualified and became senior years, with five of the six now in horse heaven. Ask Mikey Team #5. Piroshka was a steady mount for Chick's daughter, had is 28 and is enjoying retirement at the Chapin Farm. At 91 years won many ribbons and qualified to go to the Pony Club National old Chick no longer rides, although his record number of Century Rally. Piroshka had also raised two foals and came through a Club rides still stands and will be hard to beat! tendon operation to perform the Century ride. Piroshka was proud of herself for getting a higher score than Bob! The Dressage Foundation’s Century Club is a program designed to In 1999, Chick's horse, Touche', turned 22 and was ready to honor senior dressage riders and their senior horses and to encourage join the Club. "Fred" was a homebred horse that the Chapins them to remain active in the sport. To become a member of the Century Club, the ages of horse and rider must add up to at least 100 years and competed in the 1980s. Fred's only significant placing was 8th the pair must ride any level dressage test before a judge or dressage in Training Level. Over the years that brown ribbon faded to a professional. purplish color and Fred was not about to tell anyone that it was not For more information on The Dressage Foundation, please visit www. a championship ribbon. After years of the "easy life" Chick said dressagefoundation.org. that Fred "was a little annoyed to be asked to help enlarge the Photos: Photos courtesy of the Chapin Family Century Club." However, Fred enjoyed the day that they became Team #9. Meanwhile, Chick had started planning a Century ride on his daughter's horse, Zeus. He asked Lowell Boomer of The Dressage Foundation if he could ride a borrowed horse. Lowell replied, "You could qualify on a stolen horse, if necessary!" Chick said that Zeus, who had competed through Prix St. Georges, was probably bored with the lower-level training, but he never let on. Chick and Zeus became Team #11 in 2000. Chick's fifth ride came on Piroshka's daughter, Beezie, in 2002 as Team #18. Beezie had a wonderful disposition and smooth Chick gaits; however, Chick's daughters didn't compete her much bought his because she was distinctly pigeon-toed. Their loss was their first horse father's gain, as she was a delightful addition to his farm herd. Roany After qualifying for the Century Club five times, Chick said for $25, that he was through. However, his daughter had purchased a and that retired event horse that she brought to him saying, "Here's your included a next Century ride!" Chick said, "I didn't have much choice. My bridle and only problem was that he was 16.3 hands and I had to have a saddle 76 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 77 Mini Therapy – Mighty Results

Jennifer and Aladdin show off their holiday spirit and holiday costumes made by Jennifer’s mom, Sally Anfinsen, at the Ronald McDonald House. Sally makes and donates all of the costumes for the American Miniature Horses at Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses

By April Leonard

or twenty one year old Jennifer Anfinsen, American Miniature Horses are much more than Fjust cute pets - they are a way of bringing joy, love and comfort into the lives of people in need. Jennifer volunteers her time to use miniature horses as a means of therapy for special needs children, hospice patients, residents of retirement homes and many others. In 2008, Jennifer and her mother met Debbie Garcia- Bengochea, who was tutoring Jennifer’s sister. Debbie runs a volunteer based charity called Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, in Gainesville, Florida, near Jennifer’s home. Gentle Carousel brings miniature horses to a variety of places including schools and hospitals with the goal of brightening the day of the people there. The program began in 2002 and now works with an astounding 18,000 children and adults each year. As Debbie spoke about the program, the idea of using horses for therapy immediately sparked Jennifer’s interest. Jennifer had grown up riding horses and had competed in hunter shows and also enjoyed trail riding. “For me, it is therapy to go down to the barn,” Jennifer said. It made perfect sense to her to bring horses to people who could not go to a barn themselves so they could also experience the therapeutic power of horses. Jennifer’s volunteer position at Gentle Carousel includes helping with the training of the miniature horses and handling them during therapeutic visits. Training the minis for visits involves getting them used to lots of people being around and desensitizing them so they will not easily spook. Her favorite mini to work with is a mare called Wakonda, a naturally shy mini who took quite a while to develop the “therapy horse A mini in a poodle skirt! Jennifer and personality” that Gentle Carousel strives for. Jennifer says that Peanut attend a sock hop event for the the sweet, trusting horse has really come a long way since they Children’s Miracle Network. All of the first began working with her. Wakonda now excels at bringing costumes are designed and fitted to smiles to the faces of the people they visit. Aside from training the minis, Jennifer and her mother also individual mini’s for special events house and care for seven of Gentle Carousel’s 26 miniature therapy horses. Her mother is in charge of making the costumes Continued on page 80 78 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 79 that the minis wear on therapeutic visits to nursing homes, schools or libraries, so the seven living with them stand in as models for frequent costume fittings. Jennifer and Aladdin At libraries, the minis - and even take part in the MDA Jennifer - dress in costume to act out Lock Up for the stories to encourage children to read. Muscular Dystrophy Dressing in costume has been a challenge for Jennifer; but it has really helped her Association to overcome her shyness and open up. “Costumes are a new thing for me; but I’m getting used to it,” she said. When dressed in a sock hop outfit at a retirement home, many residents excitedly told her, “I used to have a skirt just like that!” Other costumes that this willing volunteer has worn include a princess outfit and a cowgirl outfit. “Just last week, I was Thing One!” she admits. “I put on a blue wig and everything.” What would motivate a busy college student who doesn’t like calling attention to herself to put on crazy costumes and devote so much time to miniature horse therapy? “I enjoy it. It’s unusual and it’s fun. It makes me happy to see someone else happy,” Jennifer explained. There is a more personal reason for her work, Cloudburst shows off his as well. “I have a special needs sister and she really enjoys it.” Jennifer’s Halloween costume for hospital sister accompanies Gentle Carousel on visits and trick or treating. their therapy outings and the two sisters Cloudburst won Martha love spending time together bonding Stewart’s annual costume over something that they both enjoy -- contest last year with this miniature horses. Jennifer has had many highlights outfit made by Sally Anfinsen, during her work with Gentle Carousel; and was featured on Martha but one special highlight was visiting the Stewart’s show. Sidney Lanier School, the school her sister attended before she graduated. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen people happier to see miniature horses,” she said. Another experience that stands out in her mind is a visit to a young boy named Joseph who suffered from Pompe, a rare form of muscular dystrophy. During the visit, Jennifer couldn’t tell if the boy was enjoying himself or not because his expression wasn’t easy to read. About a week later, Gentle Carousel received a letter from Joseph stating that their visit had been one of the best moments of his entire life. “I’ve got goose bumps right Jennifer and Aladdin now thinking about it,” Jennifer said. It’s moments like these that show her how in their Thing One much her volunteer work is really making and Thing Two a difference in the lives of people in need. outfits at the Literacy program for Gentle About the writer: April Leonard is spending the summer as an intern for Sidelines Carousel’s Reading Magazine before beginning her senior year Is Magic of college. She is working toward a degree in Equine Business Management at Cazenovia College in Cazenovia, New York.

All photos by Debbie Garcia-Bengochea

80 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Let Us Handle All Your Insurance Claims

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FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 81 e

Young Riders In last month’s issue, Sidelines featured a profile Young Rider Championships in Lexington, Kentucky on the talented 18 year old rider Abigail McArdle. and once again showed off their amazing abilities, Following that interview, Abigail competed at Spruce riding five clear rounds to win the Individual Gold Meadows with her equally talented mare Cosma 20 Medal. We asked Abigail to tell us about the thrill Fiveand the duo provedClear to be unstoppable Rounds – winning six andof her three adays Gold of competition Medal! at Young Riders in classes. Following Spruce Meadows, Abigail and her own words – an experience she will remember Cosma headed to the FEI North American Junior & forever.

By Abigail McArdle

Winning the Individual Junior Show Jumping Gold Medal at the 2012 FEI North American Junior & Young Rider Championships was by no means chance or luck of the draw. Having said that, of course, it seemed the stars aligned for Cosma and me that particular week of competition. I was very confident going into Young Riders since I had just had an extremely successful Spruce Meadows circuit, where my mare truly showed me her abilities. In my opinion, the best preparation for going into a difficult event like the Young Riders competition is your own experience with your particular horse. This means knowing all the quirks and tricks to your horse, along with practice over a wide variety of courses, which of course includes the open water. I feel my trainer Katie Prudent has really given me some great experience and guidance with my talented mare. The first day of Young Riders was the speed class and I focused on having a confident and solid round. Cosma is naturally a very hot, fast-going horse; which seems to consistently give me an advantage. My plan was to lay down a medium fast round, making up time in specific places without going “insane.” Luckily for me, that helped me win the first day in Kentucky. After the win in the first round, I felt there was a lot more pressure on me. The Nations Cup team day presented a less technical course, as it does in most team or Nations Cup events. I tried to do the very best for my team, while still remaining focused on my individual results. Cosma never ceases to amaze me and she helped me put down two more clean rounds, leading the Zone 5 team to a Silver Medal. As I entered the final day of the competition, my goal was to remain calm and focused. I knew if I had a rail in either of the two Abigail and Cosma after their gold medal win Photo by Parker/Russell The Book LLC 2012

Abigail McArdle Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography rounds I would have to jump off against all the 4-fault competitors, which ended up being Shawn Casady and Charlotte Jacobs. Cosma rose to the occasion and we rode two more faultless rounds, making us the automatic winners of the Gold Medal. Young Riders was such a great experience and I hope to keep it a cherished memory forever. I was so happy with the results. This proved an incredible partnership and relationship with my mare – as well as a confident winning attitude throughout the competition which were all I needed to take home the gold. Cosma 20 is a very special horse and I am extremely blessed to be able to work with Abigail and Cosma put in another clear round her. I have great expectations for my mare in the future and I know Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography she has the exceptional talent to fill them. 82 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 83 By Kim MacMillan eventing challenge in 1974 held in Jokers Hill, Ontario, Canada. Riders Shine at the InNorth 1981 dressage was Americanadded and the FEI recognized the event In July, hundreds of riders descended on the Kentucky Horse for the first time. In 1982 show jumping joined the NAJYRC roster Park in Lexington, Kentucky to take part in the 2012 Adequan FEI with reining and endurance coming on board in 2008 and 2011 North American Junior & Young Rider Championship (NAJYRC), respectively. Over the history of the event it has moved to several presentedJunior by Gotham North.& TheYoung championships began Rider as an locations Championships around the U.S. and Canada.

Junior eventing Junior gold medalist was Victoria New riding Fleeceworks Mystere Zone 10’s Kilian McGrath and Salerno du Val. They led their Region 5 Junior took the Young Rider gold in show Last year’s NAJYRC Junior gold medal team to gold as well . jumping. team member Brandi Roenick returned Photo by Dee Kochensparger/MacMillan Photography Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography as a Young Rider this year paired with 2011 Pan Am gold medal winner Weltino’s Colombia’s Nicolas Torres Magic who she is leasing from Jen and Rodriguez and Silver Label Bruce Hlavacek. Roenick and Magic led turned in stellar performances the Region 5 Young Rider team to gold in Junior dressage all week this year and earned individual gold and at the 2012 NAJYRC. They freestyle gold as well. Magic’s regular were the highest scoring pair rider, Steffen Peters is Roenick’s trainer at in individual dressage and home, although Roenick’s mother was her in the freestyle, in either age coach during NAJYRC as Peters was in group; but the NAJYRC is London preparing for the Olympics. the championships for North Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography American countries only and Rodriguez is from South America. Colombian native turned American rider Cesar Parra is Rodriguez’ coach. The Ground Jury awarded Rodriguez a special prize for his efforts. For 2013, expanding the NAJYRC to include riders from all of the Americas is under consideration. Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography

Young Rider eventer Connor Husain was first out on cross-country holding their dressage score through that phase and stadium to take the gold Photo by Kim MacMillan/MacMillan Photography 84 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Canada won team gold in Junior dressage, (L-R): Frederique Bourgault, Naima Moriera Laliberte, Laurence Blais Treteault and Nicole Babich Morin. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Young Rider Reining individual gold went to Texas’ Reed Kyle and A Ruf Gal. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

Region 5, led by Brandi Roenick and Weltino’s Magic, took the Young Rider dressage gold, (L-R): Devon Wycoff, Madeline Birch, Brandi Roenick and Victoria Fernalld. Photo by Allen MacMillan/MacMillan Photography

A combined team from USEA Areas VI, VII and IX took Young Rider Eventing team gold. (L-R): Kendyl Tracy, Lizzie Snow, Sarah Braun and Teresa Harcourt. Photo by Allen MacMillan/ MacMillan Photography

The Canadian Endurance Team celebrates as they cross the line together to take the team gold, (L-R): Lee Hutten riding Parker AES, Jessica Yavis riding Jahlad and Emma Webb riding Serloki. Photo by Allen MacMillan/ MacMillan Photography Sisters Cassidy and Kimberly Palmer performed a Pas de Duex on Cheval’s experienced back . Photo by Sarah Miller/MacMillan Photography FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 85 86 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 87 88 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE Hot Horse Areas - Aiken, South Carolina

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 89 e

Hot Horse Areas

It is often said that “you can’t have it all,” but whoever Aiken’s proximity to Interstate 20 and major cities like first uttered those words obviously had never been to Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte, and Savannah makes it Aiken, South Carolina. Come and see an area where ideally situated for business. In fact, some of the most you can have it all . . . and perhaps even more than you advanced businesses and industries call the Aiken area expected,WelcomeSouth especially if youCarolina’s are a horse fanatic. home.to Horse Aiken’s intellectualAiken, property Mecca is world class, and the area attracts some of America’s best and brightest From riding in the famed Hitchcock Woods, to a vast scientists and engineers who work side by side with a array of hunter/jumpers shows to world-class polo highly productive work force. matches and horse racing – Aiken brings out the best in the horse world. Trainers and owners of all disciplines With lush, idyllic mountains and beautiful, sandy have flocked to Aiken to make it a horse mecca of the beaches less than three hours away, Aiken is the south, and the horse boom in still growing. perfect home for almost anyone. The old and the new blend perfectly to provide a lifestyle that suits the most With equestrian sports, year-round recreational discriminating of tastes – from growing families to young sports, history, the arts, shopping, hiking, fishing and a singles and retirees. host of other ventures available, there is never a lack of extracurricular activities. Given Aiken’s fascinating One visit and you will discover what people who live history, one could literally spend days visiting the many here already know: If you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken historical sites and Winter Colony estates that give the . . . you’re lucky enough. city and surrounding area its rich heritage and charm.

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Where else can you find unique Hot Horse Areas, Aiken combinations that mesh so incredibly well?

An exceptional business environment located in a small, but globally cosmopolitan, town

Cozy cottages and single-family homes nestled among grand, historic estates

An active, modern lifestyle entrenched in Southern charm and a history that has been meticulously preserved

A contemporary, progressive college and university with a small town appeal

A beautiful, thriving downtown complemented by a busy retail mall

Technically advanced health care services delivered with a friendly hometown feel

Modern vehicles sharing unpaved streets with riders on horseback

92 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 93 e EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR

Construction...... 8% Hot Horse Areas, Aiken Manufacturing...... 5% Transportation and Warehousing...... 2% Wholesale and Retail...... 13% Financial Activities...... 4% Professional and Business Services...... 27% Education and Health Services...... 8% Leisure and Hospitality...... 8% Government ...... 13% Other...... 2%

Schools Numbers 20 Elementary 10 Middle 7 High 1 Career and Technology Center 3 Colleges/Universities

% Population by Age Group 0-18 years old ...... 26.4% 18-24 years old ...... 5.2% 25-44 years old ...... 25.1% 45-64 years old ...... 27.6% 65 and over ...... 15.7%

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Hot Horse Areas, Aiken Distance to Other Cities Atlanta, GA ...... Augusta, GA ...... 163 miles Charleston, SC 16 miles Charlotte, NC ...... 126 miles Columbia, SC 150 miles Greenville, SC ...... 56 miles Hilton Head, SC...... 126 miles Myrtle Beach, SC ...... 131 miles Savannah, GA ...... 192 miles 127 miles

96 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 97 eEquine Law To Post or Not to Post: South Carolina is Equine Friendly to Trail Riding Communities By Lisa Hollister, Esq. causes a dilemma for those landowners, as well as trail riding friendly communities such as Aiken, that not only allow but Presently, with the exception of four states, all of the states also encourage trail riding and would like to take advantage in the U.S. have Equine Activity Liability Acts protecting horse of their States Equine Activity Acts but are located in a state owners, equine professionals and sponsors from liability. Of which requires a posted warning. those states that have enacted such Acts, they have been The equine friendly state of South Carolina realized that divided as to whether or not to require a specific posting the posting requirement posed a problem for trail riders and warning individuals of the inherent risks of equine activities. in order to give landowners added incentive to allow riders to Every state that requires a posting or postings of a warning cross their property they made it easier for the landowner to also requires that specific language be in the posting warning take advantage of the Equine Activity Act. Realizing the need participants of the dangers of participating in equine activities. to insure that South Caroline was one of the most equine If a state mandates that the Equine Activity Act be posted and friendly states, State Representative Tom Young, R-Aiken, the party or parties seeking protection under the Act fails to do introduced Bill H. 4475 which added horseback trail riding so then the protections under the law will not apply to them. For to the list of activities whose sponsors are shielded by the this reason it is important that equine owners, professionals South Carolina Equine Activity Act. In the amended Bill, which and sponsors understand any posting requirement their state was eventually passed and signed into law by the State’s has under their respective Acts and be in full compliance with Governor, each property owner along a trail no longer has to them. post multiple signs on the riding trails that run through their Of those that do require posting of a warning sign, most property. Instead, according to Tom Young, the amended law of them require that the sign or signs be placed in a “clearly allows landowners to be protected under the Act as long as a visible location in the proximity of the equine activity” or “in sign warning equine participants of the dangers is placed at clearly visible locations on or near stables, corrals or arenas the main entrance of the trail. However, it is still imperative that where the equine professional conducts equine activities if those equine sponsors and professionals who have additional such stables, corrals or arenas that are owned, managed or equine activities being conducted on the property also display controlled by the equine professional.” Unfortunately, this clearly visible warning signs on or near stables, corrals, or arenas in order to take full advantage of the law’s protection. One Final Posting Consideration under the various State Acts is that in almost every State’s Equine Activity Act, the party in lawful possession and control of the land or facilities must conspicuously post a warning sign on the land warning a participant of any dangerous latent condition (a dangerous condition which is not obvious) which was known or should have been known to the equine activity sponsor or professional. In essence, if the participant is injured as a result of the dangerous latent condition of the land or facilities and such a warning was not posted then this will allow the participant to make a claim that under the exception granted in the Act the injured participant can still prevail against the equine sponsor or professional.

Lisa Hollister is an attorney practicing in Cincinnati, Ohio. Questions for Ms. Hollister’s column can be addressed to [email protected]. 98 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 99 e

Dressage, Aiken By Diana Hunt

Francisco Jose Garcia Ibañez is passionate about Classical Dressage. So passionate that he has taken an extended sabbatical from the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain to come to the United States to teach riders and trainThe horses. With Royal the title “Instructor/Professor/Clinician,” Life of he is Francisco Garcia considered by his peers to be one of the very best elite dressage professionals in the world. We sat down with him in one of his rare moments off a horse at Half Moon Stables in Aiken, South Carolina.

You have taught riders and trained horses at the Royal Andalusian School for over 25 years. What is the challenge of teaching in the United States? I want to spread the classic riding theory from the Royal School to a broader audience. I wanted to bring it to this country because it is further away from the European Baroque style and I see more of a disconnect from the artistic way of riding. The ancient traditions of classical riding emphasize harmony between horse and rider. Here I see the sport of dressage as a series of goals often with Francisco Garcia Photos by Diana Hunt incorrect training that makes the horse appear to be correct but later can do damage. But if you follow the classical equitation train to Grand Prix. It turns out he was one of the horses on the principles of riding, it is more harmonious, more expressive, yet it team that won the Silver Medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics. My can still be competitive. I just want to show the Spanish horse at good friend Ignacio Rambla rode him. It was good for all of us. its best and use the classical methods whereby any horse can be trained. I have found there is a lot of interest in this. What is your training philosophy? Let the horse figure out what is the right way. If he is good and Do you accept lower level riders for lessons? gets it right he works a short time. If not, we work until he does get Of course! I was taught to respect anyone who steps in a stirrup. it right but always staying light and sensitive. Then he is praised That way I can help many people. Everyone is entitled to achieve and put away. They figure out how to do it right. There are no their dreams, no? short cuts and there is no hurry.

What are you proudest of achieving at the Royal School? What is the most important aspect you look for in a horse/ Oleaje was a stallion that was assigned to me for four years to rider combination? Feeling and respect between the two. Abilities of a rider or a horse are not so important. The rider can teach the horse and the horse can teach the rider. It works both ways.

Who are your Masters? I learn from Nuno Oliveiro of Portugal and from Alvaro Domecq, the founder of the Royal Andalusian School and my mentor from the time I joined as a student when I was 14 years old. Nuno said, “Equestrian art is the perfect understanding and harmony between horse and rider.” That reflects my philosophy.

What is the dumbest thing you’ve ever done involving horses? Be a horseman rather than a lawyer or doctor! It is an addiction. I do remember being in England with dressage teams from four countries. We went on a foxhunt and I was so excited having jumped my first time over a little log that I next jumped the gate instead of stopping and opening it. The horse made it, but I didn’t.

Francisco Garcia can be reached at www.half-moon-dressage. com for lessons, training and clinics.

Francisco is training and teaching in Aiken, South Carolina, About the writer: Diana Hunt is a life-long horsewoman and has been taking an extended sabbatical from the Royal Andalusian School photographing and writing about all things horse for a long time. She of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain recently relocated from Colorado to Aiken – because of a horse.

100 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE e

Whiskey Road Foxhunters enjoy a gallop through Aiken Hot HorsePhoto by Erik Areas,Olsen Aiken

FoxhuntingAs a “horsey” town, Aiken has it all – Funincluding in an abundanceAiken of foxhunting. Four hunts keep riders busy: Whiskey Road Foxhounds; Why Worry; Aiken Hounds; and Edisto. Many Aiken riders also travel a short distance to Thomson, Georgia and hunt with Belle Meade Hunt.

Riders enjoy a potluck while riding with Whiskey Road Foxhounds Photo courtesy of Whiskey Road

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 101 For well over a century, Aiken, South Carolina has been a center together to explore the questions raised, and the conclusions for the recreational horse culture. The “Winter Colonists” who drawn, by USCA’s School of Business and the TDI studies. What came to Aiken in the late 1880s to enjoy outdoor pastimes during resulted was the formation of the Aiken Chamber Equine Support the cold season up North brought their love of equine with them. Council in 2009, and all those with an equine interest were invited Fox hunting, horse showing, polo, the training of racehorses (both to join. The Chamber provided access to its professional staff, flat and steeplechasers), were all pursued at the highest levels. offices and resources. Kentucky Derby winners, 10-goal polo players, show jumpers and It wasn’t long before four ESC committees were formed: hunters have all perfected their talents on the tracks, and in the conservation, open space and integrated trails; marketing; Aiken’sfields and woods, of this relatively Equine small but extremely gracious Support governmental affairs; and horse Council park. In January 2010, the southern town. Today, to all of these equine activities, we add Chamber hired a manager of Equine Development to support the driving, three-day eventing, dressage, trail riding on over 600 work of the ESC and these committees; their progress has been miles of trails, and a virtual explosion of interest in such “western” impressive as shown below. disciplines as cutting, reigning, barrel racing and roping. It is safe Conservation, Open Space and Integrated Trails Committee to say that the equestrian life in almost all forms is woven into the – has identified and catalogued over 600 miles of existing trails warp and weft of our community’s fabric. and began to explore various rights-of-way to begin connecting What the equine world has not had until recently is an them. This accomplishment led to collaboration with the Aiken organized voice to represent and advocate for the many faces Land Conservancy (ALC), whose mission is to protect open space of our equestrian life. That voice, known as the Equine Support in Aiken, which in turn led to collaboration with the Aiken County Council (ESC) of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce, did Parks Recreation and Tourism Department. Together, these three not “spring full-blown from the head of Zeus” but rather evolved, entities formed the Greater Aiken Integrated Trails Foundation organically, as the perception of the need for it developed. Today, (GAIT), spearheaded by Aiken County PRT in collaboration with we hope and expect the ESC to be one that provides lasting value the Aiken Chamber, last year. The purpose of GAIT is to raise to the community. funds for, as well as to facilitate, countywide projects, such as The equine industry in Aiken County had been on the Chamber’s the Horse Creek Water Trail. The initial trail will open Horse radar for a few years, however, when Sidelines Magazine Creek to kayakers and canoeists and eventually feature trails Publisher Samantha Charles was elected to the organization’s for equestrian, pedestrian and hiking along its banks. The trail is Board of Directors, interest in the industry picked up. Samantha slated to open late fall of this year. provided the Chamber’s leadership with a viable overview of what Marketing Committee – presented the 2010-2011 Equine they already believed to be an economic force of undetermined Performing Arts Series that featured the beauty and grace of size and scope. With Samantha’s help, the Chamber leadership horses and riders in foxhunting, polo, and jumpers and hunters in commissioned a study in 2008 to determine the economic impact the show ring. The purpose of the four-performance event was to of Aiken County’s equine industry. encourage the community at large to seek out and enjoy the horse The Chamber of Commerce provided the funding, and the sports that occur in Aiken all year long. University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) School of Business Governmental Affairs Committee – briefed elected officials provided the expertise. Those in the equine community provided on the importance of the equine industry, and worked with the information, and a survey showed various findings. Most salient Aiken County Delegation to expand the Horseman’s liability law’s was that horses and horse people represented over $70 million of protection to include landowners who allow horsemen to traverse direct economic impact, employed more than 1,800 people in full- their property as part of a trail system. time jobs, and was most likely the second or third largest industry Horse Park Committee – sponsored a white paper, completed in the area. It was suggested by some that the survey understated in mid-2011, to explore the TDI’s recommendation. The release the case because participation was far from universal, but the of the white paper by the Chamber was followed by town hall results were impressive nonetheless. meetings with equine and other interested community folks Almost coincident with the release of USCA’s School of Business to broaden the discussion. In late 2011, the ESC arranged for findings, the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation private funding for a feasibility study to be conducted by the and Tourism held a public forum in Aiken to present the results Center of Economic Excellence in Tourism and Development at of a major study of the state’s potential for the development of the University of South Carolina in Columbia. The results are due “destination,” as opposed to “transient,” tourism and of perhaps in early August. even greater international trade opportunities. All of the above mentioned accomplishments have been A few years ago, Tourism Development International (TDI), a very effective in raising the profile of Aiken’s horse world in the leading consultant in the field, completed a study of Carolina’s extended community and in inviting non-horsemen to join us in the tourism industry and its future potential. The consulting group enjoyment of our horses. What is even more amazing to me is that spent about a year studying Aiken County and surrounding almost all of ESC’s achievements have been accomplished with counties for what they called the “Scenic Savannah River Region” volunteers and with the support of the Greater Aiken Chamber of (SSRR). From the study’s results, we learned a lot about our state Commerce. and its capacity for growth in tourism and trade, and specifically The next step, one that is now underway, is to create the about what potential the SSRR had to offer. One of the most ESC as a not-for-profit corporation in order to provide structure, significant recommendations was to create an “international horse management and financial capabilities. There is much work yet to park” to leverage the existing horse culture in Aiken County. be done in the ESC committees – and in the ongoing mission of Given that the two studies seemed to focus on Aiken’s equine representing and advocating for horses, and for horse people, in culture as a vehicle for growth and prosperity for the community at Aiken and Aiken County. large, the Aiken Chamber encouraged local equestrians to come 102 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE BARNS / FARMS / TRAINERS / CLUBS DIRECTORY Go to www.sidelinesnews.com for active links to Barns, Farms, Trainers and Clubs websites as shown below. ALABAMA DELRAY EQUESTRIAN TENNESSEE CENTER Hunter/Jumpers/Ponies/Equitation/ FOX LAKE FARM Dressage/Western Pleasure/ HUNTERS COURT STABLE Training, Sales and Showing Allison Majerik Black Training/Showing/Sales/Camps “Teaching horses and riders to be and Mark Tompkins Delray Beach, FL their best…” Hunters/Jumpers/Equitation/Ponies Matt & Courtney Dunmire David Q. Wright – Cell (615) 973-2713 Birmingham, AL (205) 991-0624 (561) 495-4701 www.hunterscourt.com www.foxlakefarm.com www.delrayequestriancenter.com

JIMENEZ JUMPERS POLO CLUBS FLORIDA Hunters - Jumpers - Ponies Training - Showing - Sales ACORN CREEK FARMS, LLC John Paul Jimenez-(239) 207-9408 Hunter-Jumpers-Equitation www.jimenezjumpersnaples.com CALIFORNIA Training-Sales-Showing-Board Wellington, FL OC POLO CLUB Erica A. Kahn (561) 797-1614 LADY JEAN RANCH 23401 Via Pajaro Fifty Rideable Acres Farm (561) 584-8426 Coto de Caza, CA 92679 Covered Arena with Mirrors www.acorncreekfarmsllc.com Boarding Annual & Seasonal Phone: (714) 791-8369 10333 Randolph Siding Road [email protected] ASHLAND FARMS Jupiter, FL 33478 www.ocpolo.com Ken & Emily Smith (561) 745-1300 www.ljrelite.com Training/Showing/Sales SAN DIEGO POLO CLUB 14710 Palm Beach Point Blvd. (858) 481-9217 Fax (858) 481-2247 Wellington, FL 33414 M&M SHOW STABLES Hunter - Jumper - Dressage Email: [email protected] Ken (561) 818-8495 Boarding - Training - Sales www.sandiegopolo.com Emily (561) 371-1510 Boynton Beach, FL www.ashlandfarmsfl.com Marie Studd (561) 644-3383 SANTA BARBARA www.mm-showstables.com BILL SCHAUB POLO CLUB Over The Hill Farm 8, 12, 20 Goal Seasons Hunter/Jumper/Equitation PENNINGTON FARMS, INC. Club League Polo - Apr-Oct Training and Sales Ann Pennington, USEF “R” Judge Call Ariana, GM (805) 684-6683 B (407) 322-1912 or C (407) 474-2348 Hunters/Jumpers/Ponies www.sbpolo.com [email protected] Fort Myers, FL 33966 www.othfarm.com (239) 275-3276 Cell (239) 850-2085 [email protected] WILL ROGERS POLO CLUB www.penningtonfarms.com Felice Densa – General Manager CARRIAGE HILL FARM April - September Hunters/Jumpers/Ponies/Equitation SUNLIGHT EQUESTRIAN (310) 573-5000 Delray Beach, FL www.willrogerspolo.org Jane Fennessy – (561) 451-7900 CENTER Vinissa Blann – (561) 715-4435 Stuart, Florida – Helen Varble Tricia Loftus – (954) 650-8945 Hunter/Jumper/Dressage/Western www.carriagehillfarms.com Boarding/Training/Showing/ CANADA Lessons/Sales CINDY REDDISH QUARTER (772)-781-5429 CALGARY POLO CLUB www.sunlightranch.com Cam Clark – President HORSES/SAVANNAH PINES P.O. Box 17, Site 9, RR 2 EQUESTRIAN CENTER SUNSHINE MEADOWS Okotoks, Alberta, T1S 1A2 Sales - Lessons May – Sept. 6984 S.W. Busch St., Palm City, FL EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE 0-20 Goal & Green Horse Polo Training Cindy - (772) 283-6189 Hunter/Jumper/Dressage & Pleasure 7 full size fields. Outdoor arena. 6 rings w/ jumps, 2 Dressage rings, Boarding Lisa - (772) 260-5540 Club Office – (403) 938-0182 1 mirrored. Boarding & Training Email: [email protected] 170 acres in Delray Beach, FL Website: wwwcalgarypoloclub.com (561) 441-2596 www.sunshinemeadows441.com

To advertise in the Barns, Farms, Trainers and Clubs Directory call Joyce Jones (954) 796-1809or emai [email protected]

Sidelines is now available at Chapters/ Indigo Bookstores in Canada FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 103 eDressage

JapaneseBy April Leonard Olympic Treasure Still Going Strong

Seventy one seems like a good age for enjoying retirement, spending time with children or grandchildren, taking time to engage in hobbies…or maybe competing in the 2012 Olympics! Hiroshi Hoketsu has chosen the latter. At 71 years old (he was born in 1941), the Japanese dressage rider is the oldest equestrian competitor in the 2012 Olympic Games – in fact he is the oldest competitor across the board at the London Games. He misses being the oldest Olympian in history by only one year - that medal goes to the Swedish shooter Oscar Swahn who was 72 when he competed in the 1920 Olympic Games.

Thin, energetic and with a head full of dark hair, Hiroshi is ready to ride for gold. The 2012 Olympics will be Hiroshi’s third time

Hiroshi Hoketsu, 71 and still going strong

to compete in the Olympics. He kicked off his Olympic career by competing on the Japanese Olympic Show Jumping Team in 1964 at the Tokyo Olympics, where he came in 40th. During his first Olympic experience he was just a baby – only 23 years old. Although Hiroshi qualified for the Olympics again in 1988, he was unable to compete when his horse became ill. In 2008, he competed as a dressage rider in the Beijing Olympics; coming in ninth in team dressage and 35th in individual dressage.

Even four years ago in Beijing, Hiroshi was the oldest athlete competing in any Olympic event. He will compete on his beloved horse Whisper in the 2012 London Olympics, the same mare he competed on in Beijing. The 15 year old Hanoverian spooked in the 2008 Olympics and then suffered from lameness two years later. The mare is trying to keep up with her energetic rider and has rebounded which has thrilled Hiroshi who is excited to share the Olympic experience with Whisper once again.

Hiroshi, who was a top pharmaceutical CEO during his career and has degrees from Keio University and Duke University, currently lives in Aachen, Germany, where he has devoted much of his time to training for the Olympics. His dedication is apparent as he works on strengthening his muscles and preparing for the “ride of a lifetime.”

Without a doubt the world will be watching as Hiroshi and Whisper ride into the Olympic ring. In Japan, they call Hiroshi the “hope of old men” and while that may be a fitting title, equestrians everywhere will surely give him a new name – “hope of all riders.”

Hiroshi and Whisper compete at the 2008 Beijing Olympics Photos: All photos by Tokyo 2020/Photo Kishimoto 104 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE EQUESTRIAN SERVICES Go to www.sidelinesnews.com for active links to Equestrian Services websites as shown below. BARN BUILDERS THE DUTTA CORPORATION FLORIST International Horse Air Transport Scheduled weekly flights to & from WOODYS BARNS WELLINGTON FLORIST, INC. Europe. 509 Route 22 Serving all of Florida Please visit us at North Salem, NY 10560 1-866-71-WOODY 13889 Wellington Trace (914) 276-3880 Fax (914) 276-3883 www.woodysbarns.com Wellington (WPB), FL 33414 (800) 226-9299 or (561) 795-9299 CUSTOM BARN www.wellingtonflorist.com HYPNOSIS/NLP LIFE COACH DOORS AND GRILLS FLY & MOSQUITO BARNWARE® CONTROL LAURA BOYNTON KING, Custom Entrance/Stall Doors & Grills C.H.T., N.L.P, Performance Coach (910) 944-8110 Certified Sports Hypnotherapist DIPTERA (561) 841-7603 www.lauraking.net www.barnware.com Botanical Insecticide Barn & Backyard Bliss I D L E W I L D ® Fly & Mosquito Control Systems INSURANCE Custom woodworking, tack rooms, (561) 329-8227 (561) 798-6801 stalls, doors and gates Southshore and Pierson PIONEER ENVIRONMENTAL HUTSON-ETHERREDGE (561) 793-1970 COMPANIES [email protected] SERVICES Aiken’s Equine Property GET MORE FOR LESS Specialists, Est.1876 Full Service Pest Control (803) 649-5141 Automatic Misting Systems DANCE STUDIOS www.heros.com Licensed and Insured (800) 675-4518 Ext. 34 (561) 723-8089 DANCE ALL NIGHT SOUTHWEST RANCHES Ballroom & Latin Dance Studio (561) 753-7836 INSURANCE AGENCY www.danceallnightballroom.com HORSE Florida Premier Equine Insurance Agency TRANSPORTATION All major Equine Insurance Carriers DESIGN/FURNITURE Personal Service, Great Rates BROOK LEDGE (954) 331-8133 southwestranchesinsurance.com EQUINE DIVINE HORSE TRANSPORT Exclusive Clothes, Gifts and Trips 3-4xs up and down East Sporting Art - Aiken, SC Coast weekly, 3-4x weekly to KY and back, Trips to CA, 48 states JUMPS (803) 642-9772 & all CND Provinces. Insured, www.equinedivineonline.com Licensed, DOT. Custom built vans, air ride, video monitoring. 2 drivers JUMPS WEST IDLEWILD DESIGNS Ea trip. Specializing in horse shows, Top Quality & Largest Selection Custom furnishings and decorative gifts, Barn moves, airport, racetrack, of Horse Jumps in N. America handmade Turkish kilim and tribal rugs, Privates, Entire vans or LTL. (866) 389-0018 mirrors and framing. (800) 523-8143 [email protected] Southshore and Pierson www.brookledge.com www.jumpswest.com (561) 793-1970 [email protected] CEDAR CREEK HORSE TACK & FEED TRANSPORT – AIKEN, SC Ship National & Local/30 years STORES EDUCATION Experience/Personal Attention (803) 640-9953 Carolyn Nelson AMERICAN HERITAGE C. M. HADFIELD’S SADDLERY Specializing in English Bridlework SCHOOL and Clothing - Mon - Fri 9 - 5 College Preparatory with HORSE 300 Business Park Way, Suite B-100 Equestrian Program for Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 PK3 - Grade 12 TRANSPORTATION (800) 854-RIDE (561) 793-2947 6200 Linton Blvd. INTERNATIONAL [email protected] Delray Beach, FL www.hadfieldssaddlery.com (561) 495-7272 www.ahschool.com LAZCAR INTERNATIONAL, INC. RUNNING FOX EQUESTRIAN International Horse Air Transportation PRODUCTS, INC. EQUINE THERAPY First Class Worldwide & Domestic 19815 Airport Road Transport. Scheduled weekly flights Caledon, Ontario, L7K A01 EQUINE HYPERBARIC to and from Europe, South America Luc Childeric Saddles - Hunter/Jumper CENTER OF and all other destinations worldwide. & Dressage, Dy’on bridlework - finest When Quality and Service Counts. Sedgewick leather, Wildkart stirrup irons SOUTH FLORIDA TOLL FREE 1 (866) 4-LAZCAR Toll Free: 1 (888) 387-8225 Hyperbaric Oxygen is an Ph (305) 223-2162 Fax (305) 227-2141 www.runningfox.com Adjunctive Treatment to your www.lazcar.com Medical and Surgical Treatments 1630 F Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470 (561) 319-2557 equinehyperbariccenter.com FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 105 e Debbie and Alan Nash hosted a polo fundraiser on July 8 for Wounded Warriors Family Support at their farm outside Warrenton,Asides Virginia. The fundraiser attracted a good crowd for the polo match, postponed by high winds and heavy rain; but the party relocated to the barns for the pig roast and spirited socializing. Grammy Award winning jazz saxophonist, Ski Johnson performed.

American Polo player Nic Roldan’s stunning good looks are being noticed. Sidelines did a story on Nic and his polo accomplishments in the August issue (page 8) and now the New York Times has followed suit. Nic is truly an ambassador for the sport of polo!

Catherine Connor (daughter of longtime Gulfstream Polo Club manager Marla Connor) married John Zacharidis. Catherine recently wrote an article for Sidelines about the Gracida family. (August issue, page 52)

Rumor mill says Zacara polo manager Matthew Gonzales also tied the knot in a small ceremony in California. Posing with the flashy 2012 Shelby Mustang GT-500 “Super Snake” are three “drivers” with vested interested in the Wounded Warriors Family Support “High Five Tour” that The United States Polo Association’s Team USPA program is making waves all over the country! From clinics in Sheridan, is crisscrossing the country to raise funds for Wounded Wyoming with Hall of Fame inductees to members playing (and Warriors Family Support: (l-r) Maj. Gen. Arnold Fields (ret), winning) tournaments in California, Texas and New York, seems Col. John Folsom (ret), president and founder of Wounded like the future of polo is in good hands! They are even entering a Warriors Family Support (2003), and Lt. Gen. John Sylvester (ret) Photo by Lauren R Giannini

Team USPA team in the fall 8 goal series in Houston. For updates, “like” the Team USPA page on Facebook

The only current 10 goal arena player, Tommy Biddle, captained his team to a win in the National Arena Open Championship held at Country Farms Polo Club on Long Island. Tommy faced off against Nacho Figueras. Tommy’s horse Mufasa (previously featured in Sidelines) took best playing pony honors at 20 years old!

Tommy Biddle’s daughter, Lauren, was selected as part of the USA 18 and under team which will travel to China to compete against other nations.

New fields are under construction in Houston at both Cristi Payan and Chris Nevins’ farms in Texas, adding two more fields to the Houston Polo Club; the nation’s largest recognized club membership!

2012 is seeing the comeback of the Pacific Coast Arena League in California, a cooperative effort to boost summer polo at arena clubs all over Southern California. One weekend hosted two 12 hour days of polo!

San Diego Polo Club hosted its first ever Chukkers For Charity event. For photos and results, visit www.sandiegopolo.com.

The summer 20 goal series is underway in Santa Barbara and awaiting the arrival of superstars Gonzalito Pieres and Adolfo Cambiaso, as well as American Nic Roldan, who are all finishing playing engagements in England. Grammy Award winning jazz saxophonist, Ski Johnson climbed aboard a parked tractor for a little improv at the polo Also, Shane Winkler, former field’s manager and announcer fundraiser for Wounded Warriors Family Support Photo by Lauren R Giannini for IPC, is taking over as the 2013 Chairman for the Sheridan Wyoming Rodeo. 106 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY Go to www.sidelinesnews.com for active links to realtor websites as shown below. FLORIDA PALM BEACH POLO REALTY Residences, Farms, Rentals SOUTH CAROLINA Phone: (561) 798-7110 BROWNING REALTY, INT’L. Email: [email protected] DEIRDRE STOKER Eike & Randy Browning www.palmbeachpolorealty.com VAILLENCOURT Call (561) 791-2151, 358-2266 “This Is My Neighborhood” Email: [email protected] World Class & Luxury Properties www.palmbeachpolo-properties.com ROBERT ROSS, P.A. Equestrian Real Estate (803) 640-4591 Keller Williams Realty-Wellington www.Aikenscproperties.com CAROL O’BRIEN, P.A. Phone: (561) 758-6185 Keller Williams Realty, Wellington Email: [email protected] (561) 758-8593 VIRGINIA [email protected] www.carolobrien.com THE WELLINGTON TEAM Boca Executive Realty, LLC ROBIN SHORT, REALTOR Lisc. Broker in Northern Virginia Merle Ann Phillips (561) 329-7295 DAVID A. WELLES, REALTOR Sandra J Kahn (561) 797-1600 (703) 728-2172 Coldwell Banker Wellington [email protected] www.robinshort.com Equestrian Homes, Farms & Land [email protected] (561) 313-9123 SUSAN BAILEY-GRI,ABR,SFR [email protected] MKB Realtors KENTUCKY (540) 525-1844 DIANA TAHSMAN, L.L.C. www.susanbaileyrealtor.com Wellington Specialist ARNOLD KIRKPATRICK Keller Williams Realty–Palm Beach To advertise your Firm (561) 346-7955 & COMPANY Central Kentucky’s Most Respected in the Real Estate [email protected] Farm Broker Directory call (859) 231-8444 Melissa Burns THE ELEBASH COMPANY www.kirkfarms.com (561) 951-4225 or email Pamela Surtees [email protected] Serving Wellington and BIEDERMAN REAL ESTATE Palm Beach for 26 years KY Equestrian Properties (561) 371-7176 (859) 277-2030 [email protected] www.biedermanbrokerage.com EQUESTRIAN SERVICES EQUESTRIAN PROPERTIES CHRIS & LINDA WILLSON Karen Connelly Bringing YOU!! DIRECTORY (continued) Let the experts handle your The Best of the Bluegrass real estate needs. RE/MAX Creative Realty (561) 227-1535 (859) 338-7925 TACK & FEED homesandhorsefarmsky.com equestrianpropertiesinc.com STORES (continued) HOLLY ANN CHANEY OFFUTT REALTY, INC. SILVER SPUR Specializing in Equestrian Sales Located 5 minutes from The Kentucky Horse Park EQUESTRIAN, INC. Boca Executive Realty, LLC New & Used Equestrian Supplies, (859) 421-5222 (561) 719-0828 Tack, Clothing, Bits, & Repair. www.offuttrealty.com [email protected] “Your One Stop Discount Shop” 160 Business Park Way, Suite 2 LISA MENARD, REALTOR NEW YORK Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 Illustrated Properties, Wellington,FL (561) 798-6651 (561) 329-1593 [email protected] SALLY SLATER - NY & CT Prud. Douglas Elliman RE THE TACKERIA 13501 South Shore Blvd., Bedford thru N. Salem & Vic. Suite 107 Equestrian Properties MARTHA W. JOLICOEUR, P.A. Wellington, FL 33414 Illustrated Properties, Wellington, FL (914) 584 0137 (561) 793-2012 Phone: (561) 797-8040 [email protected] (800) 882-7656 Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.marthasproperties.com TERI POWERS, CRS, GRI www.tackeria.com Keller Williams Realty MARY ELLEN SENCER Equestrian Property Specialist Broker/Owner Saddle Trail Realty Serving Orange County, NY To Advertise your Luxury & Equestrian Property (845) 258-8312 [email protected] Service in the (561) 512-4340 - Wellington, FL www.farmsrus.net www.saddletrailrealty.com Equestrian Services Directory call MATT JOHNSON, REALTOR NORTH CAROLINA Equestrian Specialist Joyce Jones Illustrated Properties, Wellington CAROLINA HORSE FARMS (954) 796-1809 (561) 795-3013 [email protected] Sheelah Clarkson (828) 694-1558 or email www.mattsells.com www.sheelahclarkson.com [email protected]

FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 107 eParalympics Meet the London Bound 2012 Paralympic Equestrian Team By Lindsay Yosay McCall On June, 23 Para-Equestrians headed to Gladstone, New Jersey where four athletes were selected to represent the Para-Equestrian The 2012 calendar year for the United States Para-Equestrian Dressage Team in London. One past Paralympian, a top ten Para- Dressage Team has been intense, demanding and exciting. Of Equestrian in the world, a past National wheelchair tennis champion course, so has able-bodied Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. and an Orthopedic Surgeon will head to London in August for a chance However, the Para-Equestrian Dressage Team has had to meet to earn the Gold for the red, white and blue. Equestrian Paralympic extraordinary physical demands in addition to intense schedules, competition is scheduled August 29-September 4, 2012 at Greenwich travel logistics and tough competition. Park London, England.

Rebecca Hart from Unionville, Pennsylvania - Under the tutelage of Rolex Eventer Missy Ransehousen and Olympian Jessica Ransehousen. Rebecca has spent half of her life at Blue Hill Farm perfecting Classical Dressage. Born with Familial Spastic Paraplegia, a genetic disease that causes muscle wasting and lack of control from the waist down, Rebecca excelled through her academics and became an international star in Para- Dressage. Her energetic personality and full time job at Starbucks Corporate keeps her smiling no matter the weather. Since 2008 she has earned five USEF National Championships, earned a 4th place finish at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, represented the United States at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and was champion in 2011 at a CPEDI3* in Australia. Rebecca has been preparing two mounts for the Paralympics and Jessica Ransehousen’s Lord Ludger will be her partner for the Games. With her 28th birthday approaching in October she was asked what she was hoping for, Rebecca chuckled, “Is there anything after September 4, the final day of the Paralympic Equestrian events?”

Jonathan Wentz from Richardson, Texas - At 6’3” and a Texan boy build, finding a dressage horse for Wentz was the goal of Kai Handt from the North Texas Equestrian Center when they met years ago. Now with many years under his belt learning from a “no-complaints” traditional German trainer, Jonathan, who has Cerebral Palsy, topped the world Para-Equestrian list in 2012. In 2010 Wentz represented the United States with his trusty gelding NTEC Richter Scale at the FEI World Equestrian Games. In 2011 they earned the USEF National Championship and in 2012 earned the Reserve National Championship. Although it looked like NTEC Richter Scale would retire at the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Jonathan smiled, “Richter is a fine wine that keeps getting better with age.” Let’s hope there is celebratory champagne for this 21 year old after their successful end to the year in London.

Donna Ponessa from New Windsor, New York - Donna’s competitive nature made her one of the world’s top wheelchair tennis players and a celebrated equestrian. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in college and then a new diagnoses a few years later as a rare form of multiple sclerosis, called Devic Disease, Donna’s competitive desire remained fixed on the future. In 2011 she aimed for the Paralympics and her dreams will come true this August. Armed with trainer Wesley Dunham, of Woodstock Stables in Millbrook, New York, Donna has been accumulating the accolades throughout 2011 and 2012. In 2011 she was the Para-Equestrian Dressage National Champion in Grade IA. When she headed to Mexico she was part of the Gold Medal U.S. Team and was then selected to fly halfway around the world to Australia, once again capturing the Gold as part of U.S. Team. In 2012 she earned the third overall placing at the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships and was Champion of the Grade IA division. Donna will be competing at the Paralympics with Western Rose, owned by Wesley Dunham. Donna noted, “This is a chance of a lifetime. I won’t believe this is really happening until I am walking down centerline in London.”

Dale Dedrick from Ann Arbor, Michigan - With a U.S. National Swimming world record holder for a mom, a father that was an elite golfer and a grandmother who rode in the Calgary Stampede, it seemed only natural for Dale to become an athlete and equestrian. After a few intense years, earning her M.D. from the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Dale stepped back into riding and her Dressage training evolved. During her orthopedic residency at the University of Michigan, Dale was diagnosed with Lupus. As an orthopedic surgeon, symptoms of joint deformities, inflammation, heart disease and muscle weakness were affecting Dale’s ability to work. Dale retired in 1992 as an Assistant Professor of Surgery and Internal Medicine. In her teens she was a successful hunter/jumper rider, was a supreme National Dressage rider and in 1986 she was a U.S. Olympic Festival competitor. As a Para-Equestrian she flew onto the scene training with her mount Bonifatius “Erik” and trainer Rosalind Kinstler of Ann Arbor, Michigan. In 2011 she earned the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage Reserve National Champion, was Champion Grade II Para-Equestrian and in 2012 was the Reserve National Champion Grade II Para-Equestrian. Dale commented, “I cannot believe this is happening to my horse Erik, myself, and my fellow U.S. teammates, it’s awesome!

About the writer: Lindsay Yosay McCall is photojournalist for the equestrian industry. She has covered many international horse shows for hunters, show jumpers, dressage and para-equestrian dressage. Lindsay has traveled with the para-equestrians since 2009 and will be covering the 2012 Paralympics in London. All photos by Lindsay Yosay McCall

108 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES’ CLASSIFIEDS

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Trainers welcome. Full 561-762-5741 [email protected] A/C AND POOL HEATING SERVICE, board (mucking 2x, grain 2x, hay 4x, turn out up JUL211 MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT. 28 to 4 hours) $2k/horse. Minimum 3 months. 561- 951-4225 or [email protected]. years experience. N.A.T.E. certified Journeyman. OLD FIELD FARM, GOSHEN, NY: A full scale Highly skilled, reliable and professional service. SE4 Hunter/Jumper boarding facility. 104 acres, BEST RATES. Locally serving Wellington and indoor board with clean, safe comfortable surrounding area Call Marc today to schedule a 10 STALLS W/APT: All the show barn amenities. surroundings for horse and owner. 14”x14”stalls, FREE consultation! 561-801-0168 MA2 Arena, washer/dryer, AC tack room ect. 200’x300’ outdoor riding arena, 100’x200’ 561-202-4025 [email protected] AUG1 indoor riding arena, Acres of turn out. 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WELLINGTON TOWNCAR & CAB 561-719-0828 [email protected] MA4 SE4 561-333-0181 Airport Transportation Service 8 STALLS FOR RENT IN AIKEN SC: 2 large www.wellingtontowncar.com paddocks, 12x12 matted with water to each BOOKKEEPING SERVICES ON TIME –EVERY TIME!! JL01 stall, washer, dryer, wash rack, perimeter track, some jumps, security gate, owner on premises, ASSURED BOOKKEEPING SERVICES night check available. 7 miles from Hitchock - Offering full charge bookkeeping and BARN RENTAL Woods off 302. Call 803-678-9806 JUL2 accounting. We can come to you, no matter how small your business. Family owned and WELLINGTON - FIRST CLASS 10-STALL operated with confidentiality, integrity, accuracy BARN FOR RENT: On 2.3 acres, Groom’s BARN AND HOUSE RENTALS & timeliness as our mission. Combining 30+ quarters, on bridle path. Call (561) 801-2633 or years experience to serve your business. 561-839-0482 SE05 Email: [email protected] JA1 FOR RENT 7 STALL+2, CBS Barn W/APT 15 mins. from WEF. Homeland Equestrian WELLINGTON ,WEF PALM BEACH POINT: Community. 3/3.5 Pool Home Erica Kahn, 12 stall barn , Hack to show grounds, grassy [email protected] 561-797-1614 SE10 BREEDING SERVICES paddocks, large jump ring w/jumps rent the whole barn of just dry stalls WELLINGTON FL, 2+ ACRES: w/8 stall barn CLONING—Want a horse just like yours? [email protected] or 561-762-5741 JUL1 on trails to show grounds, lg. pasture, work Cloning produces an exact genetic copy. For areas, parking. 3200 SF house w/ enclosed more info; [email protected] or LOXAHATCHEE, FL. FULL SERVICE pool & court yard. No agent fees. 908-310-2125 MA03 BOARDING: on quiet, private farm in gated Call 561-329-7676 [email protected] JU2 equestrian community. Hack to White Fences Shows. Access to miles of riding trails. New CBS WELLINGTON – 24 STALL BARN; 2 Tack barn and Dressage arena with all amenities. Rooms/Office (12’ x 24’ each), Grass Field, 250’ CLINICS Large grass paddocks. Owners on premises. x 300’, 8 paddocks, Sand Ring, 150 ‘ x 240’, Holly Hugo-Vidal Scheduling clinics for late Training/Lessons available. 561-706-5401 or 1100 SQ. FT. HOUSE, Wash rack, Laundry [email protected]. SE1 summer and early fall. USEF “R” judge, author room, Short hack to WEF Grounds. of Build Confidence Over Fences Trainer of Call (954) 448-1044 O810 WELLINGTON, SADDLE TRAIL – Beautiful numerous AA show riders Web site: hollyhugo- 14 stall CBS center isle barn. A/C, tack room, vidal.com Email [email protected] laundry room, feed room. Fly system. 5 grassy Mobile 828 674 7983 AUG3 paddocks. 2 wash stalls. 100 x 200 fiber ring, Large fully furnished APARTMENT. 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FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 111 eThe Bottom Line The Dressage Dream Team

The American Dressage Dream Team: (left to right) Jan and Jan Ebeling and Rafalca taking part in a dressage class – Amy Ebeling, Beth Meyer and Ann Romney otherwise known as “Horse Ballet” Photo courtesy of Amy Ebeling Photo by Kim MacMillan

By Jan Westmark-Allan What did you think of Stephen Colbert’s spoof on dressage? Dressage doesn’t usually get much attention so it’s been very The buzz created around American dressage rider Jan Ebeling’s exciting and wonderful for the sport. I like to look at things from the quest for the 2012 Olympics aboard Rafalca, a horse owned in lighter side and I really laughed at the horse being strapped to the part by Jan’s wife, Amy Ebeling, has rocked the equestrian world. top of the station wagon on The Colbert Report. Jan and Rafalca have become quite the sensation thanks to the fact that the horse is also owned by Beth Meyer and Ann Romney, Have you always wanted to be an Olympian? wife of politician Mitt Romney. Thanks to the mainstream media Yes, being an Olympian is my dream. When I was a child I excitement, Rafalca, Jan, Amy, Beth and Ann are the new wanted to play soccer but my family wanted me to ride, so I started American Dressage Dream Team. riding. It turned into a passion and I feel lucky that I have a lifestyle In case you missed the hoopla that turned dressage into the that lets me pursue my passion. “Sport of the Summer,” head over to YouTube and watch The What advice did Mitt Romney give you when you became the Colbert Report with political satirist Stephen Colbert. In the Colbert center of all the media attention? Report entitled “Mitt Romney’s Blue Collar Equestrian Pastime,” He told me to enjoy the attention. Mitt and Ann had the same Stephen pokes fun at dressage, which he refers to by its “street reaction to The Colbert Report that I did – we thought it was funny. name” of Horse Ballet. The attention wasn’t anticipated, but we are enjoying it. Jan, who moved to the U.S. from Germany and received his American citizenship in 1998, is an accomplished international How is Rafalca handling the attention? dressage rider who has competed in three World Cups and the She doesn’t understand what is going on; but when we are 2003 Pan American Games. We caught up with Jan at his farm, competing I stay focused and shut everything else out. We’ve The Acres, in Moorpark, California just outside of Los Angeles, had Rafalca for six years and she wasn’t a grand prix horse before he left for London and the 2012 Olympic Games to find out when we got her. It has taken a lot of work to get her to the his take on being part of the Dream Team. grand prix level; but she is an honest and sweet horse with an amazing character.

The Bottom Line - It looks like the last laugh is on Stephen Colbert and we need to thank him for catapulting the dressage community into the spotlight. We wish Jan and Rafalca the best in London and thank goodness Rafalca didn’t have to travel to London strapped on the top of a station wagon!

112 SIDELINES SEPTEMBER 2012 FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE