V50-N4A - Subscription

2019 ISSU E # 9 $22.50

F E A T U R I N G

COOL RIVER KID JEN SCHMITT

ABWC Las Vegas Gold Supreme Champion Yearling Filly and Highest Scoring Female

Scottsdale Junior Champion Filly

Region I Champion Yearling Filly

U.S. National Arabian Yearling Fillies Presented by Andrew Sellman

EKS Alihandro x BH Beijings Velvet Proudly owned by Khidam El Shawan Partners, LLC www.SaharaScottsdale.com

Ar abian Horse Times | 3 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Contents Issue 9 • Volume 50, No. 4A 12 16

53rd Annual U.S. Nationals Preview Cover Story: Region 10’s Conway Arabians ... A Tradition Of Giving Back To The Arabian Horse

by Catherine Cole Ferandelli

38

Strawberry Banks Farm: Three Generations, Four Decades ...

by Colleen Scott

12

52

U.S. Nationals Profiles, Part I

68

U.S. Nationals Judges’ Perspective … From Ford Arena

74

Facebook Favorites: Memorable U.S. National English Pleasure Champions

86

State Of The Breed—A 6-Part Arabian Horse Times Exclusive Series A Conversation With Large Breeders (Part II of II)

by Evie Tubbs Sweeney

90

Leaders Of The Times: GRK Farms

by Kristi Hopp

2YOUTH

Rose Report Front Cover Story: Sherman Ranch

by Sarah Jayne Johnson

18YOUTH

The 2019 Youth Nationals—Big Dreams & Bright Futures

by Laura Morton

18

YOUTH

46YOUTH

UPHA Ribbons Of Service … A Worthwhile Program

48YOUTH

Youth Nationals Judges’ Highlights

58YOUTH

Rose Report Back Cover Story: Third Generation Horsewoman, Sawyer Tehan, Rides To Roses At Youth Nationals

by Colleen Scott

158

Women Around The World: Peggy Weems

162

AHT On The Road: Region 14 Championship

6

Comments From The Publisher

36

In My Opinion … Lesson Barns Are Critical To Our Industry

92

Faces & Places

164

Index Of Advertisers

2019 ISSU E # 9 $22.50

F E A T U R I N G

COOL RIVER KID JEN SCHMITT

On The Cover: COOL RIVER KID (Sundance Kid V x Moments To Treasure), owned by Conway Arabians, Inc.

Ar abian Horse Times | 4 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Sincere thanks to all of the wonderful clients and friends that joined us at the Brazilian National Championships...

And to our dear Brazilian friends and host,

Obrigado!

Cindy McGown and Mark Davis, Owners

WWW.ROYALARABIANS.COM info@royalarabians.com

Ar abian Horse Times | 5 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Publisher Lara Ames Director of Creative and Organizational Development Ashley Gallún Managing Editor Charlene Deyle Advertising Account Executives Tony Bergren Lesley Blain Mazur Contributing Editors Mary Kirkman Theresa Cardamone Contributing Writers Catherine Cole Ferandelli Kristi Hopp Sarah Jayne Johnson Laura Morton Colleen Scott Evie Tubbs Sweeney Editorial Intern Laura Morton Production Manager Jody Thompson Art Director/ IT Support Specialist Anthony Ferguson Print & Web Design Wayne Anderson Melissa Pasicznyk Show Operations/ Media Support Specialist Meaghan Estes Sales Assistant Hannah Giesen AHT Abroad Representative Mieke Opsteyn Director of Finance & Administration Sara Thomas Accounts Receivable Deb Trebesch © Copyright AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

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AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content or manipulation of images that are provided by the advertiser.

ARABIAN HORSE TIMES (ISSN 0279-8125) Volume 50, No. 4A & 4AA, September 2019, is published monthly, except March and November, by AHT, Inc. dba Arabian Horse Times, 20276 Delaware Avenue, Jordan, Minnesota 55352. Periodical postage paid at Jordan, Minnesota 55352 and at additional entry offices. Single copies in U.S. and Canada $22.50. Subscription in U.S. $80 per year, $140 two years, $200 three years. Canada $130 one year, $250 two years, $340 three years, U.S. funds. Foreign Subscriptions: $190 one year, $320 two years, $380 three years, payable in advance, U.S. funds. Sorry, no refunds on subscription orders. For subscription and change of address, please send old address as printed on last label. Please allow four to six weeks for your first subscription to be shipped. Occasionally ARABIAN HORSE TIMES makes its mailing list available to other organizations. If you prefer not to receive these mailings, please write to ARABIAN HORSE TIMES, Editorial Offices, 20276 Delaware Avenue, Jordan, MN 55352.

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Comments From The Publisher

The U.S. Nationals—Say Thanks To The Real Heroes It’s U.S. Nationals time again. I love to say that because I love the show! The Nationals is number one, the granddaddy of them all, the extravaganza event that everyone in the breed who shows horses aspires to attend.

This year, I invite you to consider the fact that showing is just one aspect of the Nationals, and I’m not alluding to the show’s other attractions that we all know well—the wonderful camaraderie of Arabian fans, the charitable events, or any of a host of other reasons we come there. Let’s take a look back at 1959, when the first classes that would become the Nationals as we know it were held. Sure, everyone wanted the bragging rights the awards represented, but they also wanted to see which bloodlines were succeeding. They wanted to recognize and document achievement.

I suggest that as we compete this year, we think about breeding—look at the horses we most admire and pay special attention to how they are bred. When I was a child and new at the show, I recall announcer Harry Cooper, as the contenders lined up in the English Pleasure finals, informing the crowd that something like “more than half of the class you see before you is by the great stallion, *Bask.” A decade or so later, Harry was able to say that about Huckleberry Bey. He expected that the spectators would want to know the sources of all that talent. That is still assumed and we now are more informed than ever; when the top horses are revealed for ribbons, our announcers typically offer both the sire and dam for each. If you are interested in bloodlines, it is easy to stay at least basically informed.

At a show like the Nationals, you have to be impressed with the work that some breeders have done. Often you can see the descendants of their horses permeate through the ranks: young ones appear in futurity classes and grow into open, then amateur, and finally you will see them accompanying children, the future of our industry, into the show ring. You notice the lines that have been so successful as they develop over time. One thing you also probably will notice is that the quality now is better than ever. You’re likely to begin wondering what comes next!

We owe the quality we are creating to our great breeders. Without their knowledge and dedication all these years, we would not be where we are. So, I have one more suggestion: as we enjoy the week and appreciate the significance of the U.S. National trophies, how about we thank the breeders who are responsible for our pleasure? They also are responsible for maintaining our Arabian standard of excellence.

Lara Ames Lara Ames Publisher

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MASATO TRGR | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR 55 & Over and Jackpot with Linda Hackett SUGAR PLUM FARY | H/A Country Pleasure AAOTR 55 & Over and Maturity with Linda Hackett GSF NICOLETTE | Arabian Country Pleasure Driving AAOTD with Hannah Messerli NIGHT FLIGHT SA | Arabian Country Pleasure AATR Select and Jackpot with Hannah Messerli BEST OF MY LOVE | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR 36-54 with Janna O’Neill | Arabian Country Pleasure Driving with Ryan Strand NOBLE SOLDIER | Arabian Park with Ryan Strand CP INCOGNITO | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR 19-35 and Maturity with Alexus Mattingly DEBONHEIR DGL | Arabian Country Pleasure AATR Select with Tammy McElliott | Arabian Country Pleasure Open with Ryan Strand WHAT HAPPENS HEIR CA | AEPA Arabian Horse Times $100,000 Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity with Wyatt Budd CSP BOMBSHELL | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR Maturity with Brittney Berget JUDY GARLAND LR | AEPA Equine Athlete $50,000 H/A Saddle Seat Futurity with Ryan Strand SF FIORANO | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR 55 & Over and Jackpot with Robin Manfield ESSENCE OF DESTINY | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR Select with Charity Davis LEXUS CA | H/A Country Pleasure Futurity with Ryan Strand KT HEIR SHOW | Arabian Country Pleasure Futurity with Ryan Strand MA COCONUT | H/A Country Pleasure Junior Horse with Wyatt Budd CSP ROLLING STONE | Arabian English Pleasure Futurity with Ryan Strand SUGAR MOUNTAIN | H/A Country Pleasure AAOTR 36-54 and Jackpot with Amber Stearns CRF SHINNING ENCORE | Arabian English Pleasure AAOTR 19-35 with Jenna Tekolste | Arabian English Pleasure Open with Wyatt Budd TL MAGIC PRANCER | H/A Country Pleasure AATR Select with Alyssa Elver SOUTHERN CONNECTION | H/A Park with Ryan Strand VOLUME CONTROL | H/A Country Pleasure Open with Ryan Strand | H/A Country Pleasure AAOTR 19-35 with Jenna Tekolste JTC THUNDERSTRUCK | Arabian Country Pleasure AAOTR 19-35 and Jackpot with Brittney Berget NOBLE REIGN | Arabian Country Pleasure Open with Wyatt Budd

VISIT US AT OUR STALLS IN TULSA Ryan Strand 816-651-7424 Wyatt Budd 517-899-3254 libertymeadowstc@gmail.com

LOCATED IN CENTRAL PARK HALL 2100 Switzer Road Bucyrus, Kansas www.Liberty-Meadows.com

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Arabian National Breeders Final Unanimous Gold Champion Junior Filly

Scottsdale International Champion 2-year-old Filly

Arabian Breeders World Cup Las Vegas SUPREME GOLD CHAMPION JUNIOR MARE

Sired by Conquest BR Out of RH Triana

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Proudly Owned by ISRA Arabians Kris & Ashley Glover

Represented by Sahara Scottsdale www.SaharaScottsdale.com

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Steven Scoggins Long Meadow Arabians

ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

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Know You’re In Good Hands

Innovative Equine Supplements Created By A Veterinarian

depaoloequineconcepts.com Ar abian Horse Times | 11 | Volume 50, No. 4A

SPONSOR

THE 53RD ANNUAL

UNITED STATES NATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE SHOW

[

O C T OBER 18-2 6 , 2 019 T U L S A , OK L A HOM A

Ar abian Horse Times | 12 | Volume 50, No. 4A

[

U.S. NATIONA LS PR EV IEW

5,000 Exhibitors 1,780 Horses 211 Classes 3,453 Class Entries 3 Show Rings 6,000 Expected Spectators 40 Commercial Exhibitors Multiple Charities Benefited Countless Volunteers

New i n 2019 … SEE GREEN IN 2019!

ABS Arabian Yearling Sweepstakes Fillies and Colts/Geldings $25,000 prize money available ABS Arabian & H/A English Pleasure and Reining AAOTR Jackpot Classes Ranch Riding ATR age splits of 19-54 and 55 & Over Arabian and H/A Ranch Riding Junior Horse AHT High-Point Breeder & Sire Perpetual Trophy

GOOD LUCK TO ALL! Ar abian Horse Times | 13 | Volume 50, No. 4A

U.S. NAT I O NAL

F U T U R I T Y CO LT S

presented by andrew sellman For proud owners Alp & Nancy Ilercil Ilercil Corp. | Mesa, Arizona

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U.S. R E SERV E NAT IO NAL C H AMPIO N Y E AR L ING C OLT | Truest x IA Ana Vida by Amunition | Represented by Sahara Scottsdale | www.SaharaScottsdale.com

COV ER S TORY:

CONWAY ARABIANS Ready For 2019 U.S. Nationals

BY C AT HE RINE COL E F E R A NDE L L I

Fresh from a terrif ic Canadian Nationals, Conway Arabians, owned by Peter and Lori Conway, is a formidable family operation eagerly moving forward toward U.S. Nationals 2019.

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_________________________ “Conway Arabians has embraced

Lori Conway enthusiastically elaborates, “This year is particularly significant for Conway Arabians. Yes, 2019 has been a fantastic journey in the show pen thus far, but what makes it monumental for us is our daughter Anna’s debut as a professional.” Lori proudly smiles, “Canadian Nationals was Anna’s first foray at the national level. Working side by side with our trainer Jen Schmitt, Conway Arabians & their clients earned roses at the ‘Royal Red’ in multiple disciplines and classes—both in the Open and Amateur divisions.”

But the U.S. Nationals awaits. Lori lays out the plan, “Conway Arabians has embraced the diversity of the Arabian horse in nearly all the disciplines offered in our show pen. This year we are focusing to some degree on our younger horses, mainly in the western pleasure, country and English pleasure divisions.” Lori continues, ‘Our young purebred horses competing in western pleasure include our black bay stallion Cool River Kid in the AWPA with Jen Schmitt, Onzia FMA in Western Pleasure Junior Horse, and Khalifornia Khrome J in the Western Pleasure Amateur Maturity and AAOTR with myself. Jen’s Half-Arabian 3-year-old chestnut mare Tezza Rozza will compete in the Half-Arabian Western Pleasure Futurity as well.”

Returning to the western show pen has been a reunion of sorts for Lori. “Back in the late 70’s-early ‘80s, I always had a western pleasure horse to show. Somehow, I got away from it, focusing on our hunters and English horses. While English continues to be a ‘natural’ for me, I’ve realized that western pleasure with its fine tuning and detail is easy on the body and challenging on the mind. I really love it.”

Conway Arabians aims to bring five English horses to U.S. Nationals, showing in the Open and Amateur divisions.

The youngest entry is their 2016 bay stallion CSP Rolling Stone. Purchased earlier this year, he will be shown in the Arabian English Pleasure Futurity with trainer Ryan Strand.

Conway Arabians homebred stallion Rightful Heir CA, is their entry for the AEPA class with trainer Joel Kiesner, no stranger to the AEPA winners circle.

Leah Beth Golladay will return with multiple National champion Noble Rendezvous, seeking to encore their 2018 Unanimous U.S. Arabian Country English Pleasure championship.

the diversity of the Arabian horse in nearly all the disciplines offered in our show pen. This year we are focusing to some degree on our younger horses, mainly in the western pleasure, country and English pleasure divisions.”

_________________________

Winning two unanimous championships at 2019 Canadian Nationals, Lori and bay mare Afires Rejoice are competing in the Arabian Amateur Country English divisions.

Daughter, Rachel Conway Schieffelbein, rounds out the Amateur Country English divisions in the Jackpot Breeders Sweepstakes class with her purebred bay mare Natalya Afire.

As busy a show schedule this may be, Conway Arabians is just as involved with giving back to the industry. This year’s AHDF fundraiser is no different.

Lori shares, “A group of forward-thinking people decided to change things up a bit and bring several disciplines into the charity event. The final Friday night session will have an AHDF Calcutta-type auction, with competing teams representing the AWPA, Mare halter, AHPA and AEPA classes. Everyone will have a chance to vie for top bid on their favorite pick for each event. We all will definitely ‘party down,’ enjoying a live band, open bar and cool prizes available for all. It’s optional, but we are ‘pushing’ festive, formal dress attire.” AHDF’s goal is to make this event a strategic fundraiser for horsemen in need amidst festivity and fun. Lori and AHDF encourage all to attend, enjoy and give.

Peter Conway describes the horses of Conway Arabians as “doing horses.” Lori and Peter themselves, both personify this depiction; true “givers and doers.” ■

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NOBLE RENDEZVOUS Country English Pleasure with Leah Beth Golladay

Trainers Jen Schmitt & Anna Conway

KHALIFORNIA KHROME J Western Pleasure AAOTR 55 & Over and AAOTR Maturity with Lori Conway

Lori & Peter Conway Chatfield, MN ConwayArabians.com 507.202.4440

P.C.

COOL RIVER KID AWPA Western Pleasure Futurity with Jen Schmitt

BLUE SUEDE SHOES CA

MAYBELLINE CA

Hunter Pleasure Jr. Horse with Jen Schmitt Hunter Pleasure AAOTR Maturity with Lori Conway

Half-Arabian Hunter Pleasure with Jen Schmitt Hunter Pleasure AAOTR 36-54, ABS Hunter Pleasure Jackpot, and Ladies Side Saddle English AAOTR with Rachel Enns

AFIRES REJOICE

NATALYA AFIRE

Country English Pleasure AAOTR 55 & Over and ABS Country English Pleasure Jackpot with Lori Conway

ABS Country English Pleasure Jackpot with Rachel Schieffelbein

RIGHTFUL HEIR CA

ONZIA FMA

AEPA Saddle Seat Futurity with Joel Kiesner

Western Pleasure Junior Horse and Ladies Side Saddle Western with Jen Schmitt

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An influence known around the globe, from the program created by Lenita Perroy of Haras Meia Lua. Al Jood Stud is proud to add a piece of history and unique influence into their program and hope to build the next generation of the Jamaal legacy through the acquisition of Ellara El Ludjin sired by Ludjin El Jamaal and out of Elle Dorada (Enzo x El Dorada PASB by Sanadik El Shaklan) and her daughter Elstrella Meia Lua, a 2017 born filly sired by HP Ali (HP Shakir TE x HP Miranda by ST Synbad) and out of Ellara El Ludjin.

Elstrella was recently shown at her first two shows and dominated, crowned Gold Champion Filly Central Florida Arabian Spring Classic show & Region 12 Champion filly.

Make sure to cheer Elstrella on as she starts her global journey as one of the last horses bred from this worldwide awknowledged breeding program that is Haras Meia Lua, Brazil alongside Al Jood Stud, Qatar.

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Returned and conquered the US showring in 2019.

Ready to make his next appearance at the 2019 US Nationals with Mike Wilson at the lead.

Fame VF B 1982

Versace B 1995

Precious As Gold Ch 1984

Da Valentino B 2003 Da Love Ch 1999

Fabrices Destiny Gr 1998

WN Ultimate Star Gr 1989

• • • • •

Magnifficaa Fa B 1995 Bluesprucetanzeer B 1979 WN Forever Love Gr 1982 Eukaliptus Gr 1974

Fabrice Gr 1984

• •

Padrons Psyche Ch 1988

Lora Laura Gr 1968

2019 Region 12 Open Champion Senior Stallion 2019 Scottsdale International Bronze Champion Senior Stallion & 2019 Scottsdale Int. 1st place 8yrs & over 2016 Red Bluff Arabian Horse Show Western Pleasure Gold Champion 2013 Region 5 Gold Champion Stallion 2013 Daffodil All Arab Spring Show Gold Champion Stallion 2012 Region 10 Reserve Champion Stallion 2012 Sahara Sands Spring Classic Gold Champion Stallion

Ar abian Horse Times | 22 | Volume 50, No. 4A

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Manager/Trainer Mike Miller Trainer Bob Phillips Stockton, New Jersey | 908.500.2634

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MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION

HALF-ARABIAN COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 55 & Over with Carol Skeuse-Hart Bred & owned by Springwater Farms Vegaz x Mona

SF

Ar abian Horse Times | 25 | Volume 50, No. 4A

ARABIAN COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE

AAOTR 55 & Over with Nancy Maximuck

ROL

Owned by Nancy Maximuck Afire Bey V x Singularcylection

+//

Ar abian Horse Times | 26 | Volume 50, No. 4A

HALF-ARABIAN COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 55 & Over with Nancy Maximuck Owned by Nancy Maximuck Afires Heir x Worth Slammin’

Ar abian Horse Times | 27 | Volume 50, No. 4A

WESTERN PLEASURE

AAOTR 55 & Over with Elaine Finney Owned by Elaine Finney

Khadraj NA x Gai Alicia

PGA

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HALF-ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE

AAOTR 55 & Over and ABS Western Pleasure Jackpot with Elaine Finney Owned by Elaine Finney Eternety x Copper Elegance

GF

Ar abian Horse Times | 29 | Volume 50, No. 4A

MULTI-NATIONAL CHAMPION

WESTERN PLEASURE

AAOTR 55 & Over with Nancy Maximuck Owned by Nancy Maximuck Khadraj NA x TN Katiki

+//

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HALF-ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE

AAOTR 55 & Over and ABS Western Pleasure Jackpot with Nancy Maximuck Owned by Nancy Maximuck C A Hermoso x Cyventh Heaven

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HALF-ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE with Mike Miller

Owned by Elaine Finney Justify x Whispering Wind Golden Glory

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COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE

AAOTR Maturity and AAOTR 55 & Over with Carol Skeuse-Hart Owned by Springwater Farms VCP Magnifier x GSF Ambienze

GSF

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HALF-ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE Open with Mike Miller

Owned by Elaine Finney Magnum Chall HVP x SF Springloaded

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CHALL ABOUT ME 2008 H/A Chestnut Gelding (Magnum Chall HVP x SF Springloaded) Fancy and athletic all the way through, this horse has a long list of wins in both halter and western pleasure. He has the quality to stand out in the Open division, with the manners and consistency for a youth or amateur. Steady and solid. He’s in Tulsa with Mike Miller for the H/A Western Pleasure Open class. Take a test ride!

SF AFIRE LILY 2013 Chestnut Mare (Afire Bey V x Snowbility, by MHR Nobility) In her first year showing, this pretty mare gets better and better.

Everything her pedigree says she should be and more, she is just getting started and looks beautiful doing it.

NATIONAL QUALITY SHOW HORSES FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Ask about our additional excellent selection of young prospects and show horses available.

Contact trainers Mike Miller, 908.500.2634 | Bob Phillips, 973.214.7664 or come by out stalls at the in-gate aisle of the Ford Truck Arena.

NOBLE RANSOM 2012 Chestnut Gelding (IXL Noble Express x Radiant Afire) This is a 2x Regional Res-Champion in CEP Jr. Horse with a Top Ten at U.S. Nationals. Balanced and bright, he will make a great amateur mount. Just the right amount of chrome gets him noticed, and he has a ton more wins ahead for an Open or Amateur rider.

See him in the Country class with Bob Phillips.

RIZING PASSION EF 2015 Chestnut Mare (GSF Rizing Son x Afires Quintina) Compact and pretty, this young mare is just beginning her show career and marches around the ring like she’s done it for years. She was Top Three at 2019 East Coast Championships and has another year as a Junior Horse. Breed her or show her. Your choice!

SF NOTORIOUSS 2013 Bay H/A Gelding (Vegaz x Mona) This striking guy is a Country Pleasure dream. He is a full brother to Multi-National Champion SF Top Notch and maternal sibling to 2019 Scottsdale Park Champion SF Top Shelf. He comes by it honestly with manners and style.

2019

Unanimous

My

C A N A D I A N N AT I O N A L C H A M P I O N H/A P A R K AOTR

Allience REA

+//

Heading to U.S. Nationals with Gregg Shafer in Half-Arabian Park Open and Amateur

18-TIME NATIONAL CHAMPION OR RESERVE Sired by 6-Time National Champion, Allience+//

Nancy Shafer, Gregg and Lotta Shafer ~ W. Farmington, OH ~ E-mail: gshafer@outlook.com ~ 330.720.5784 Ar abian Horse Times | 37 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Strawberry Banks Farm Three Generations, Four Decades …

by COLLEEN SCOTT

It’s not many Arabian breeders who can say their next milestone will be half a century. But that’s precisely the case with Strawberry Banks Farm, East Aurora, NY. When Barbara and her late husband Neil founded their program and built their first farm more than four decades ago with a small four-stall barn, they had no idea they were embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. Fast forward to today, and Strawberry Banks Farm has survived the ups and downs of the market through the years and is thriving under the vision of not just Barbara, but two additional generations of horsewomen, her daughter Lissa Tehan, and granddaughter, Sawyer Tehan.

With strong, insightful and knowledgeable women at the helm of Strawberry Banks Farm, it’s not surprising their breeding program has long been based on the strength of their broodmares. Early into their research and Arabian adventure, the Churs discovered they were most attracted to the Bask-bred horses and began building their program with A Love Song (*Bask x Elkana). Tonki (*Bask x Boltonka) and Elegant Crystal

Barbara Chur

Sawyer and Lissa Tehan Barbara Chur

Ar abian Horse Times | 38 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Sawyer Tehan

“Horses are our love ...

Arabians are our Passion.”

(*Aladdinn x *Elkana) rounded out the band of broodmares that would be the foundation. Their influence is still clear today, as the program has produced consistently athletic, beautiful and talented horses, all with a unique Strawberry Banks “look.”

Through the years, there have been many memorable horses, too many to name. There was Ericca (Tempter x Elegant Crystal), a multi-national champion in both halter and English performance; Allience (*Aladdinn x A Love Song), another product of their breeding program who was often in the U.S. National Champion winner’s circle; and the home-bred stallion A Temptation (Tempter x A Love Song), a special horse whom Barbara has been quoted as saying was “her love, and the heart and soul of Strawberry Banks.”

A Temptation was joined by the U.S. and Canadian National Champion English Pleasure horse Hey Hallelujah (Huckleberry Bey x Hallelujah Bask), and the legendary National Champion producing stallion Baske Afire (Afire Bey V x Mac Baske), rounding out the farm’s trio of stallions.

A Temptation

Hey Hallelujah

Ar abian Horse Times | 39 | Volume 50, No. 4A

Baske Afire

Extraordinalily

(Baske Afire x Emayzing Grace, by Hey Hallelujah)

Chennin Blanc

(Inception x Chardonnay DGL, by A Temptation)

With the foundation of Bask-bred mares and three incredible stallions, the Strawberry Banks program has produced hundreds of show ring successes and this year looks to be no exception.

“Our foal crop of five this year has been by far the best yet,” says Barbara. “With our amazing collection of broodmares by Baske Afire, A Temptation and Hey Hallelujah, we are breeding to some select stallions outside our barn gates. Enchanting Memories (Baske Afire x Emayzing Grace) and Chardonnay DGL (A Temptation x Chamorrita Afire) have given us an extraordinary colt and filly by Inception (IXL Noble Express x Bonita Afire).

“We were also very fortunate to get an amazing Half-Arabian colt by Baske Afire out of the multi-national champion producing Saddlebred mare Only Girl in Town,” she adds.

An additional breeding of A Temptation to the multi-national champion mare Princess of Baske produced a beautiful filly. Lastly, the farm’s “blue hen” mare, Emayzing Grace (Hey Hallelujah x Ericca) produced a full sister to the stunning Enchanting Memories.

While the farm relies on a long history of great producing pedigrees, there is also longevity in the people that make up Strawberry Banks Farm. Besides the Chur family, Melanie and Brian Murch have been “We couldn’t be what we are without all our dedicated, caring employees.” —Barbara Chur

Ar abian Horse Times | 40 | Volume 50, No. 4A

an integral part of the team for nearly two decades.

Of the farm’s other eight full-time employees, seven of them have been with the farm for eight to 28 years, an amazing accomplishment for any employer to achieve.

“We couldn’t be what we are without all our dedicated, caring employees,” says Barbara. “We thank them so much; the horses do too!

“This year, we proudly added Lance Lewis to our training team. Lance is a talented young trainer and Brian is happy to have him on board. Together they have been working with a great group of young horses and 2019 U.S. National contenders bred by Strawberry Banks Farm. We will also be watching the beautiful mare Ready for Love (A Temptation x ROL Fire Mist), recently purchased by Sugar Hill Arabians.

Mitch Sperte will show her off in the Arabian English Pleasure Futurity.”

While the cards are not yet in for the upcoming U.S. Nationals, there’s no doubt the Strawberry Banks Farm horses will meet with the same kind of success they have previously in the show ring.

If Sawyer Tehan’s performance at this past Youth Nationals is any indication, the winner’s circle is definitely in the future for the U.S. Nationals contenders. Showing four horses, she came home with a top ten and three reserve champion titles.

“We are so blessed and have gotten so much enjoyment from our affiliation with the Arabian breed,” says Barbara. “It’s especially wonderful to share these experiences with family,” she adds.

“We are all looking forward to what the future still holds for Strawberry Banks Farm.”

PRETTI WOMAN (A Temptation x Princess Of Baske)

Arabian Country Pleasure Jr. Horse AEPA Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity with Brian Murch

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SMOOOTHE OPERATOR (Baske Afire x Siereusi)

H/A English Pleasure Junior Horse with Lance Lewis

A TRUE

TEMPTATION (A Temptation x A Blessing)

Arabian Country Pleasure Junior Horse and AEPA Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity with Lance Lewis

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H/A Country Pleasure AAOTR 36-54 with Lissa Tehan

THRILLICIOUS

ERA

(Baske Afire x Koriene)

H/A Country Pleasure Driving with Brian Murch Ar abian Horse Times | 43 | Volume 50, No. 4A

EMAGIN (Baske Afire x Emayzing Grace)

AHPA Arabian Hunter Pleasure Futurity with Lance Lewis Available at Nationals

ENRICO (A Temptation x EA Candy Girl)

Arabian Native Costume AAOTR with Lissa Tehan Arabian Native Costume with Lance Lewis

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www.SugarHillArabians.com | Owned by Betsy Kubiak Trainer Mitch Sperte | 480-201-5113 | info@SugarHillArabians.com

O 2019 Buckeye and Region 14 Champion English Pleasure Junior Horse

VJ Royal Heir | Joleen WB by MHR Nobility out of a full sister to AA Apollo Bey 2014 Stallion | Bred by Tim & Marty Shea

E

U.S . N AT I O N A L C O N T E N D E R

VOLUTIONIST

(Baske Afire x Evalina V) • 2011 Gelding

Regional Champion Arabian Country Pleasure Driving Regional Champion Country English Pleasure Junior Horse Available at U.S. Nationals Suitable for an Amateur Rider & Driver

Arabian Country Pleasure Driving with Brian Murch Bred and owned by 401K ARABIANS | Joni Hyrick | Pendleton, New York Contact Brian Murch | Strawberry Banks Farm | 716-983-3099

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Picks

FE ATURED PRODUC TS

1. LACTALEX™

Because muscle condition and quick recovery from exercise are paramount to an Arabian’s athletic performance, top competitors supplement their horses with pre- and post-performance muscle support formulas such as Lactalex. Lactalex is ideal for use before performance for optimal muscle function and suppleness, and after performance to support muscle recovery. Not only does it contain ingredients that reduce lactic acid build-up, but Lactalex is highly effective because it contains BCAAs, Vitamin E with Selenium, and our proprietary all natural PP1 formula to provide needed relief of sore muscles and improve suppleness. Lactalex remains show safe while avoiding all prohibited substances, avoids ingredients that upset the GI tract, and is effective when used alone or safely stacked with veterinarian prescribed medications. Lactalex also gives you the choice of administration via powder or paste formulas.

2. PERFECT PREP EQ™ SANE & SOUND MAX PASTE

Focus support? Soundness support? Gastric support?

Check, check and check. Our popular Sane & Sound MAX paste offers a complete 3-in-1 solution for horses who may be prone to all three causes of equine anxiety: excitement, gastric upset and soreness.

Its ingredients offer significant focus support, gastrofriendly relaxing effects, and a “pathway to comfort.”

This long-lasting formula takes effect beginning 2-4 hours after administration and has the ability to be stacked with itself or other Perfect Prep EQ™ formulas for greater effect. Sane & Sound MAX offers unmatched support for Arabians who suffer from “stage fright” or become difficult in the show ring.

3. GASTROEASE EQ™ RESCUE PASTE

Sensitive horses who are reactive to their environments— such as Arabians—tend to display negative gastric symptoms when dealing with shipping or show conditions. It is not uncommon for Arabians to stop eating when a change in their environment occurs or when their sensitivity induces stress related gastric upset. Not only does GastroEase EQ™ Rescue address the effects of gastric stress, it also provides powerful probiotics, stabilizes acid levels and supports hindgut function, allowing horses to gain maximum benefit from their nutritional intake. One 60 cc syringe of GastroEase EQ™ Rescue prior to hauling or riding can ward off at-risk gastrointestinal tissues and maintain gastric comfort to ensure the most willing partner.

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2 0 1 9 U . S . N AT I O N A L S

PROFILES

How many foals do you produce a year? 15 to 25 When you first started breeding, what were your goals? How have they evolved over the years? In the beginning we wanted fillies, but now it doesn’t really matter, as long as they are a good horse.

Who would you consider your most prized broodmare and/or stallion? And what can you always count on them to consistently produce?

Stallions: Brass, Matoi, Noble Cause Mares: Ames Mirage, Toi Jabaska, Ames Juliet.

Ninety percent of the time they were consistent, and they always gave us good moving, well balanced offspring.

What was your first big break as a breeder? Probably winning our first national championship. Everyone’s goal is to breed and have national winners.

Where do you see your breeding program 10 years from now?

Being run by my daughter, Lara.

BREEDER

LOLLIE AMES CEDAR RIDGE ARABIANS JORDAN, MN

Years as a breeder... 50

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U.S. NATIONA LS PROFILES

How many foals do you produce a year? It varies, 10-20 foals.

When you first started breeding, what were your goals? How have they evolved over the years? Twenty years ago, we wrote: “Strong, sound athletes that are beautiful to behold and a pleasure to be around. Merely being pretty is not enough, the horses of Conway Arabians are ‘doing’ horses, bred to have the conformation and temperament to perform in the show ring or on the trail.” There is no change.

In your opinion, what are some motivating factors that incentivize breeders? What are some things that can be discouraging? The AEPA, AWPA and AHPA have been a big motivator for many people. The Sweepstakes program and our local program, MN Arabian Horse Breeders, are an asset also. The most discouraging thing is all the negative comments on social media.

Who would you consider your most prized broodmare and/or stallion? And what can you always count on them to consistently produce? COLTRANE - TRANE-ability, Athleticism, Short Backs, Well Conformed and Pretty. His beautiful black color that he is passing is a big bonus, too.

What was your first big break as a breeder? Our goal has never faltered on what we like and what our vision is of what we want to produce. We have been lucky picking out babies that have become incredible show horses and producers.

Where do you see your breeding program 10 years from now? We are very excited about the long-range possibilities of our *El Ghazi daughters (Ghazelle CA) being bred back to our stallions. We also believe we will be well established as a source for western stock.

What advice would you give someone looking to breed for the first time? Know what you hope to accomplish and find a great mare to fit that goal. Talk with the people that breed the kind of horses you wish to produce.

BREEDER

PETER & LORI CONWAY CONWAY ARABIANS CHATFIELD, MN

Years as a breeder...

Conway Arabians was established 20 years ago.

However, both of us started well before that time: (Lori - 1969 breeding one mare) (Peter - 1993)

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AMATEUR/OWNER

LORI CONWAY

# of horses competing at U.S. Nationals… Conway Arabians has a total of 11 horses competing at the show. I personally am showing 3 horses.

What are three things you are most excited for or love most about U.S. Nationals?

1.) Seeing all the beautiful horses in the work rings and competing in the show ring.

2.) Visiting with all our friends and fellow peers and catching up on their lives and cheering for their horses.

3.) I love the fun, excitement, anxiety and effort of getting into the show ring and competing.

If you could relive one horse related moment, what would it be and why? 2018 U.S. Nationals’ Friday night session when Noble Rendezvous went Unanimous National Champion Country English Pleasure Open and Coltrane went Unanimous National Champion Park Horse. The evening was surreal and a once-in-a-lifetime night for our farm!

What’s one asset that your trainer has that you feel sets them apart from others? Jen, Anna, Joel, Ashton, John, Leah Beth and Ryan have tons of talent and are hard-working, which is why they are so successful. Jen is a master at western horses, which takes incredible patience, timing and feel. I am in awe of her. Anna is a master at seeing a vision and making it come true for me.

If someone approached you and was curious to know more about the Arabian horse, what would you say or do to encourage them to get involved? I would invite them to our farm and let them experience the Arabians inside the barn and out in the pastures. I’d let them love on the mares and babies and let them watch the horses get worked to see what might pique their interest. To be around an Arabian is to fall in love with them.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

That I’ve become a bit of a “foodie.” I can grow a great garden and we raise our own beef, so many times our meals our totally home grown. It’s a great feeling to get back to nature and away from all the packaged and processed food.

AMATEUR/OWNER

LARA AMES

CEDAR RIDGE/STRAND’S ARABIANS JORDAN, MN

# of horses competing at U.S. Nationals… 4 What are three things you are most excited for or love most about U.S. Nationals? That silver trophy is a big deal! The competition, seeing great friends, and watching all the 3-year-old classes.

If you could relive one horse related moment, what would it be and why? Having my dad in the far corner when I show, helping me along, but I know he will be there in spirit.

What’s one asset that your trainer has that you feel sets them apart from others? Laura Rodel has my horses in very good order to show as an amateur and Jody Strand, I love that he keeps everything light.

If someone approached you and was curious to know more about the Arabian horse, what would you say or do to encourage them to get involved? They are versatile and wonderful. They will become your best friends and so will the people who surround them.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I am very superstitious and a creature of habit. Don’t like change.

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U.S. NATIONA LS PROFILES

# of horses competing at U.S. Nationals… Dennis – 4; Linda – 5 We will be competing in the western divisions and also be showing our reining/ranch riding horses with Crystal McNutt.

What are three things you are most excited for or love most about U.S. Nationals? U.S. Nationals is one of our favorite shows. We get to spend time with friends that we do not see at other shows through the year, and it is always fun to see all of the up-and-coming, young future stars. Great friends and great horses.

If you could relive one horse related moment, what would it be and why? We have been blessed with numerous U.S. & Canadian National Champions, but the one that stands out the most was the year that our granddaughter won a national championship on Call Me Awesome and a reserve on Just Joe at Youth. She waited a long time in getting to show Call Me Awesome, so the win was special.

What’s one asset that your trainer has that you feel sets them apart from others? Steven works very diligently to make the horses that Dennis and I are showing be trained in a way that works for us. Making them amateur friendly is his goal. He is also concerned about the WHOLE horse. All 43 horses that live at Long Meadow go outside almost daily.

If someone approached you and was curious to know more about the Arabian horse, what would you say or do to encourage them to get involved? I believe that having children or adults involved in horses is one of the best investments that a family could make. Start with a great lesson program to get started. Find horse farms to visit and get to know the horses. It is very rewarding and a great sport for children.

AMATEUR/OWNER

DENNIS & LINDA CLARK LONG MEADOW ARABIANS

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

When I was younger, I had my pilot’s license. Dennis thinks that is a scary thought! We have a home in Telluride, Colorado, and love to ski.

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ARGYLE, TX

AMATEUR/OWNER

ROBERTA LEMBKE NORTHFIELD, MN

FARM AFFILIATION: CEDAR RIDGE AR ABIANS # of horses competing at U.S. Nationals… Two! Toi Daniels+ in Country English and Goblet of Fire CCF in English Pleasure.

What are three things you are most excited for or love most about U.S. Nationals? I am excited for just about everything related to U.S. Nationals, but mostly the chance to show in both Country English and English Pleasure! I love watching all the classes, as well as watching everyone school their horses. It’s the ten best days of the year!

AMATEUR/OWNER

GREGG SHAFER SHAFER ARABIANS WARREN, OH

If you could relive one horse related moment, what would it be and why? Hands down, I would relive the moment I got my first top ten at U.S. and my national championship at Canada. Both moments were simply magical! I keep asking myself how I could be so lucky to be able to do this!

# of horses competing at U.S. Nationals… 3

What’s one asset that your trainer has that you feel sets them apart from others? I am hard pressed to identify a single asset that defines Laura Rodel. I could say she is in a different class because she has all the attributes I desire in a trainer: great teacher, great trainer, hard-working, collaborates with the owner, and cares about the welfare of the horse.

If you could relive one horse related moment, what would it be and why? The 1998 U.S. Nationals. I won my first national championship on Mattaroyale+//.

If someone approached you and was curious to know more about the Arabian horse, what would you say or do to encourage them to get involved? I would share the stories of my life with Arabian horses and offer up ideas on how they might get involved.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I think most people would be surprised to know that I have a lighter side and am not always so serious. Just give me a margarita and I will show you!

What are three things you are most excited for or love most about U.S. Nationals? The horses, the competition and seeing friends.

What’s one asset that your trainer has that you feel sets them apart from others? We haven’t had a trainer for several years. My wife, daughter and I do all the necessary work.

If someone approached you and was curious to know more about the Arabian horse, what would you say or do to encourage them to get involved? I would tell them that the Arabian is the most intelligent, versatile and beautiful horse they would ever meet. This is what has kept us committed to the breed for the past 46 years.

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