WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – March 2023

FACES OF DRESSAGE

Dressage

Sarah Lockman Tubman

CareYou Can Count On

When it comes to your family’s health, you can count on our dedication to deliver compassionate, quality care every time. Wellington Regional is here with award-winning services, including cardiovascular, maternity and Level III NICU, emergency medicine, an Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI and Resuscitation by the American College of Cardiology, an Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV, an Accredited Bariatric Center of Excellence by MBSAQIP and much more.

50TH STREET • $12,000,000

20 Acres in Wellington’s South End • Manor House With Private Entrance and 3-Car Garage • 8-Stall Barn With Another 8 Stalls Possible • 6 Lush Paddocks

• All-Weather Riding Arena • Oversized 3-Bay Storage Building • Riding Track Encircles This Equestrian’s Dream Property • Adjoining 10-Acre Farm Also Available for Purchase

WELLINGTON, FLORIDA

WELLINGTON • $520,000

Well Located, No HOA • 3-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom Home • Light and Bright

Featuring Cathedral Ceilings • Screened Entertaining Area • Large Fenced Back Yard • New Roof in 2021 • This Well-Kept Home Is Available Furnished

PALM BEACH POINT EAST • $8,200,000

Scenic 10 Acres on Stables Way • 16-Stall Barn • 4-Horse Walker • Round Pen •

5 Large Paddocks • 3-Bedroom, 2.5-Bath Pool Home With Garage • Custom-Built

4-Bedroom, 5-Bath Staff House • Top of the Line Bermuda Grass Grand Prix Field

• Easy Access to WEF Showgrounds • Adjoining 20-Acre Farm Also Available for Purchase

ST. ANDREWS • $399,500

2-Bedroom, 2-Bath Condo • Updated Kitchen and Floors • Light and Bright • 1-Car Garage • Furnishings Included • Community Pool and Clubhouse Amenities

• Make This Affordable Home Yours for Future Equestrian Seasons!

Home is Where Your Horse Is

Paloma Reiter DO,

L. Zaulyanov Scanlan MD, FAAD

Irina Milman DO, FAAD

BROOKE USA: ONE VERY SUCCESSFUL EVENT DOWN; TWO MORE TO GO IN WELLINGTON

Brooke USA Foundation’s approach to building awareness among various sectors of the Wellington market proved to be right on target with the resounding success of Brooke USA’s “The Watering Hole.”

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2023 AGDF SHOWCASES 10 WEEKS OF EXCITING DRESSAGE COMPETITION

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) has started off its 12week competition circuit running until March 31. With two weeks off early on, the show runs consecutively for the last eight weeks.

FACES OF DRESSAGE 2023: MEET SOME OF THE RIDERS COMPETING AT THE AGDF

As is our annual tradition, Wellington The Magazine this month highlights just a few of the amazing athletes who are competing this season at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Wellington.

CREATING THE PERFECT FREESTYLE: FROM CHOREOGRAPHY TO THE RIDER

One of the most thrilling parts of dressage is the musical freestyle program that draws an enthusiastic following. Go behind the scenes with choreographer Terry Gallo and dressage rider Sarah Lockman Tubman to learn how it all comes together.

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

SEEING DRESSAGE THROUGH THE EYES OF COACH AND TRAINER DEBBIE MCDONALD

Debbie McDonald is a household name in the world of dressage. During her career as a professional horseman, she claimed many top honors and has recently accepted the position to once again be the dressage technical advisor for the USEF.

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

KNOW THE MOVEMENTS: JANET FOY ON WHAT IS REQUIRED IN THE DRESSAGE RING

Janet Foy is a name often mentioned in competitive dressage circles. As an FEI 5* and USEF dressage judge, she brings high expectations of attention to detail and accurate riding. Learn what she looks for when judging dressage competitions. BY

CHARITY LUCENTE

KEEPING HORSES LOOKING GOOD GOES

SO MUCH DEEPER THAN THE BRAIDS

Braiding and grooming are a usual part of artistic showmanship, but in order to get a glimpse of what goes into maintaining a horse at the very top of the sport, we spoke with Carly Muma, head groom and stable manager for dressage rider Susie Dutta. BY

CHARITY LUCENTE

DER DAU BOOTS BRINGS CLASSIC AND FASHIONABLE FOOTWEAR TO WELLINGTON

Founded more than 50 years ago, Der Dau Custom Made Boots & Shoes incorporates the skills of master leather artisans to thoughtfully craft the best riding boots for customers. BY ELEANOR BOURNE

BALANCE FITNESS FOCUSES ON PERSONALIZED WELLNESS PLANS

on the cover

Dressage rider Sarah Lockman Tubman is featured this month in “Creating the Perfect Freestyle.”

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

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Local Nonprofits Big Winners At The Great Charity Challenge

USET Foundation Celebrates Recipients Of Prestigious Awards

WELLINGTON TODAY

Wellington’s staff serves vital roles in connecting our great hometown and building bridges in the community — connecting people with services, places and often with other people. BY JIM BARNES

WELLINGTON TABLE

27 36 43 47 22 50 61 36 78 71

It’s a whole new world inside the reframed World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, now open in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center. WOB invites beer lovers and beyond to have a cold one (or two), along with a delicious beer-paired meal and some interactive fun. BY

MELANIE KOPACZ

WELLINGTON REAL ESTATE

Find luxury, privacy and tranquility at a magnificent home positioned on a premier lot with a breathtaking view of Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, presented by Madison Frost of Engle & Völkers.

PHOTO BY EMMA MILLER

FACES OF DRESSAGE 2023: EXPLORING THE BEAUTIFUL, GRACEFUL SPORT OF DRESSAGE

March is our annual Faces of Dressage issue, and we had a wonderful time this month learning all that the classical and beautiful sport of dressage has to offer this season in Wellington. First, we explore all the excitement at the 2023 Adequan Global Dressage Festival, which began in January and continues through the end of March, featuring some of the best dressage riders in the world. Next, we present Faces of Dressage 2023, where we profile just a handful of the amazing riders in the ring at this year’s festival.

Keeping with our dressage theme, we present a series of articles that give readers a more in-depth look into Wellington’s dressage community, written by talented equestrian writer Charity Lucente. These include “Creating the Perfect Freestyle,” which goes behind the scenes with choreographer Terry Gallo and dressage rider Sarah Lockman Tubman; “Pirouette, Piaffe & Penalties,” which examines the sport through the eyes of rider, coach and trainer Debbie McDonald; “Know the Dressage Movements” with tips from FEI 5* judge Janet Foy on what is required in the dressage ring; “The Mane Event,” which explores what goes into keeping dressage horses looking good with Carly Muma, head groom and stable manager for dressage rider Susie Dutta; and, finally, “Love the Process, Not Just the Product,” with dressage rider Lauren Chumley on the value of personally training your own horses.

Also this month, we look at the wonderful things that the amazing nonprofit Brooke USA is doing this season in Wellington, including “The Watering Hole” pool party for young riders last month, and two events this month, “Ponies & Pearls” and “Divertimentos & Dressage.” Nothing is more important to riders than a well-fitting boot, and this issue we visit with Der Dau Custom Made Boots & Shoes, which brings artisan-made, classic and fashionable footwear to Wellington.

Our Wellington Today column by Village Manager Jim Barnes this issue explores how Wellington’s staff serves vital roles in connecting the community. Wellington Health visits Balance Fitness, where owner Lynette Laufenberg focuses on personalized wellness plans for clients at her boutique fitness studio. Wellington Table samples the great brews and delicious meals at World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, which has returned to the area with a reframed concept that pairs hundreds of beer choices with elevated menu options. Finally, Wellington Real Estate explores a magnificent home positioned on a premier lot with a breathtaking view of Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, presented by Madison Frost of Engle & Völkers.

Until next month, I hope that you are enjoying the lovely weather here in our Wellington paradise, and perhaps I’ll see you enjoying some of those amazing freestyle rides at Friday Night Stars.

MARCH 2023

executive editor

Joshua I. Manning publisher

Dawn Rivera

senior

graphic designer

Stephanie Rodriguez

graphic designers

Nancy Pobiak

Yolanda Cernicky

account managers

Betty Buglio

Evie Edwards

Joetta Palumbo

bookkeeping

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Abner Pedraza contributors

Jim Barnes

Eleanor Bourne

Meredith Burow

Erin Davisson

Denise Fleischman

Frank Koester

Melanie Kopacz

Charity Lucente

Mike May

Callie Sharkey

Deborah Welky

Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2023, all rights reserved by Wellington The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

Anna Niehaus has lived and worked in the western communities of Palm Beach County for more than 3 decades. Her expertise in single family home resales, equestrian properties, vacant land, investment properties and new construction have been award winning locally and in the South Florida Region. Anna’s priority is to find the perfect home for every buyer and to offer effective strategies to her sellers to ensure an efficient and lucrative transaction. Anna speaks German and English.

(561) 214-3310

annaniehaus@comcast.net

Specializing in Equestrian & Residential Properties. Whether buying, selling or leasing properties, Marcia is an expert negotiator with extensive local knowledge. From first time buyers to multimillion dollar farm sales, she personally coordinates every detail, minimizing stress, streamlining communications, and always provides a timely follow-up. Praised by her clients for her professionalism, her clients will tell you she doesn’t just meet their expectations, she consistently EXCEEDS them!

(561) 707-7673

stallmatch@gmail.com

Making up one half of the Drahan-Keiser Team, Betsy Keiser is a real estate professional based out of Wellington. With her personalized service, positive attitude and calm demeanor, Betsy is constantly exceeding her clients expectations while making the entire process an enjoyable one. Betsy’s experience as an owner of a custom residential construction company as well as a state licensed property manager, provides her with unique and valuable insight into multiple facets of real estate.

(561) 318-1208

betsy@drahankeiser.com

JENNIFER DRAHAN

Jennifer Drahan - Making up one half of The Drahan-Keiser Team, there is only one thing Jennifer Drahan is more passionate about than horses and that is real estate.  Jen graduated from Texas A&M University (Fighting’ Texas Aggie Class of 1995) with a B.S. in Animal Science, during which time she built a successful hunter/jumper training and sales business.  The extensive background Jen has in both the equine and real estate industry is a major benefit to the team’s clients.

(561) 318-1208

jen@drahankeiser.com

MARCIA LICHTENWALNER

BETSY KEISER

MICHELLE “SHELLY” POWER

Born and raised in Chicago, Shelly began her real estate career in 1987. Shelly has 30+ years in the RE business, specializing in residential investment & relocation. Her career started in Chicago as a property manager and pertaining property acquisitions for investors. She later moved to NJ & managed luxury buildings & town homes. In the top 15% in her company and a member of Keller Williams Luxury Division.. Shelly lives in Wellington with her husband and has 2 sons and a sweet Golden Doodle Riley. (561) 310-6074

shellypower561@gmail.com

BRIAN AND JENNIFER WILDER

Combined 5th generation SF native and midwestern roots bring 23 years of real estate knowledge, passion & enthusiasm to our clients. Our strategy focuses on individual style, needs, and five-star service. Proud parents of 5 boys, we are deeply rooted in the community through mentoring and coaching youth baseball. Also find us boating, fishing, or swimming with our “surf dog”, Charlie. Let our top producing team welcome you and yours to South Florida living.

(561) 201-4717

cbrianwilder@gmail.com

A lifelong resident of Wellington, FL, Michele Barone and her team of marketing, design and client care experts offer clients a concierge experience, ensuring that the client’s every need is always put first. A top agent award recipient for many consecutive years, Michele guarantees success by offering expert negotiation skills, honesty, advice and support from the moment you meet her and her multilingual team.

(561) 762-6420

info@michelebaronehomes.com

Marissa is a bi-lingual Wellington native who grew up with a passion for horses and riding. She applies that same passion in providing the highest quality of service whether dealing in Residential RE, Luxury RE, Equestrian RE, RE Investing or renting. Her love for her profession shows not only in the fact that she is in the top 10% of KW Wellington, but also in her dedication to her clients. When she is not devoting time to her clients, she enjoys spending time with her family, dogs and horses.

(561) 329-1970

marissaoconnorrealtor@gmail.com

Born and raised in South Florida. I have lived in Wellington since 1985 with over 25 years of RE & Property management. I LOVE what I do and LOVE where I live. I pride myself with Honesty and Integrity. Customer service is my highest priority. I enjoy people and strive for a “WIN WIN” experience for all.  My hobbies include Horses, Golf, Pickleball, Tennis and spending time with my family. Specializing in Equestrian properties, Luxury Homes, Golf & Tennis Communities, Investment properties.

(561) 758-8321

nappytranter@gmail.com

OSKAR PAYOT

Oskar Payot, with over ten years of experience in Real Estate, joined forces with the exclusive brokerage of KW Wellington Luxury Division in 2022. Wellington is Oskar’s home town, where he has lived for over 22 years. His nurturing and attentive personality has helped carve out the best techniques to provide excellent service to his clients. When Oskar is not enjoying quality time with his loved ones, he enjoys a very active lifestyle including working out and traveling.

(561) 310-3974

OskarPayot@kw.com

HADAR GOLDBERG

I’ve been a member of Keller Williams Luxury division since 2017. As a founding member, I pride myself on my white-glove service. Previously, I taught in PBC and worked as principal of an online school. This unique family niche and extensive knowledge of location, education and valuation has led me to become one of Palm Beach’s most trusted realtors and in the top 5% of PBC closed sales volume year after year. I love working with a variety of clients to grow our community.

(561) 389-6038

hadargoldberg78@gmail.com

SOPHIE GHEDIN

Sophie Ghedin is one of the founding partners at Ghedin & Herz Key Advantage. She’s a premier award winning real estate professional, placed among the top five percent at KW, Wellington. Sophie a member of the National Association of Realtors with more than a decade of experience in residential and equestrian RE. Fluent in English, French and Spanish, her enthusiasm to meet the client’s demands is infectious. “As a realtor, my first priority is to make my clients happy.

(561) 236-1977

sophieghedin@kw.com

ROBERT ROSS

Robert’s success as an equestrian drew him to the east coast where he became a Grand Prix rider, co-founder of the Equestrian Aid Foundation and launched his RE career specializing in equestrian & luxury properties in Wellington. Robert’s passion and dedication to his clients has allowed him to remain among the Top 3 Keller Williams agents in SF since 2014. Although Robert’s expertise is farm sales & luxury homes, some of his fondest moments have been working with first time home buyers.

(561) 758-6185

robsross@aol.com

MARIA RASPANTI

A Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist with over 25 years’ experience that transcends nearly all aspects of a transaction. One of the most wellrounded real estate experts in Palm Beach County with unparalleled knowledge for the intricacies that go into a seamless and successful RE transaction. Maria has developed a reputation as one of the most trusted service-oriented professionals for helping you achieve your real estate aspirations. Ranked a Top Agent for Keller Williams Realty.

(561) 800-3609

www.YourFamilyLiving.com

Sommar Clark is a real estate professional with Keller Williams Realty Wellington. A 35+ year resident of South Florida, her previous experience as a teacher in the Palm Beach County school district provides clients with a unique perspective on how neighborhoods feed into the various school systems. This experience combined with her dedication to transparent communication throughout the process has been instrumental to her reputation within the community as a trusted real estate professional.

(561) 315-1834

sommarclark@kw.com

SOMMAR CLARK

MICHELE BARONE

JOAN “NAPPY” TRANTER

MARISSA O’CONNOR

LOCAL NONPROFITS BIG WINNERS AT THE GREAT CHARITY CHALLENGE

The 2023 Great Charity Challenge, sponsored by Fidelity Investments, was held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Wellington International. A total of 34 teams of riders competed, with the best time winning $100,000 for a local charity, and all participating charities were guaranteed at least $15,000. This year’s theme was particularly sweet, with candy-inspired costumes for both horses and riders. The Caridad Center team of Campbell Brown, Emma Hechtman and Abby Funk, sponsored by Frog Pond Stables and Little Creek Equestrian, took the $100,000 top spot with a combined time of 91.622 seconds. The Hab Center team of Vivian Golden, Gabriella Curry and Grace Debney, sponsored by Lunar Dressage and Campo Bahia, won second place and a $90,000 award. Third place and $80,000 went to Alex Breyer, Stephanie Garrett and David O’Brien on behalf of 211 of the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast, sponsored by the Postage Stamp Farm Foundation and La Victoria Farm. Charities without a horse in the race had several other opportunities to receive grants. To learn more about the competition and the charities supported over the last 14 years, visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com.

(Left to right) Campbell Brown, Emma Hechtman and Abby Funk took first place riding for the Caridad Center; Vivian Golden, Gabriella Curry and Grace Debney took second place riding for the Hab Center; and Alex Breyer, Stephanie Garrett and David O’Brien took third place riding for 211 of the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast.

(Left) GCC Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin announces the winners of the kids and pets costume contest. (Right) A total of 34 participating charities received awards.

(Left to right) Emma Hechtman, one of the winning riders, aboard Esther-II Des Brumes; Campbell Brown, another of the winning riders, on Diamond; Resource Depot’s team took home a $2,000 award for their costumes; young musicians from Panther Run Elementary School performed at the event; and the Polo Park Stallions chorus performs.

Equestrians soar over jumps dressed in candy-inspired costumes during the GCC.

(Left to right) The candy hearts team of Alexis Sokolov, Lisa Butzer and Logan Marksbury rode for Adopt a Family; the Gumdrops rode for the Loggerhead Marinelife Center; dressed as smores, Capri Truesdale, Isabella Kahn and Sutton Friesen rode for the Lighthouse for the Blind; and spectators Sara Natale and Abby Tennity with Buster.

Sophia Pessoa, Dylan Clark, Zoey Burton and Carsyn Korotkin served as judges for the team costume contest.

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY JUMP MEDIA

USET FOUNDATION CELEBRATES RECIPIENTS OF PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation held its Gold Medal Club Reception on Sunday, Jan. 22 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington. The reception was held to celebrate the recipients of three prestigious USET Foundation awards: the Whitney Stone Cup, the Lionel GuerrandHermès Trophy and the R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award. The event also applauded key anniversaries of Gold Medal Club members, individuals who contribute more than $1,000 annually to the USET Foundation.

(Left to right) USET Foundation Chair, CEO and President Jim McNerney (left) and USET Foundation Vice President Bill Weeks (right) present the R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award to Margaret Duprey (center); USET Foundation Chair, CEO and President Jim McNerney (left) and USET Foundation Vice President Bill Weeks (right) present the Whitney Stone Cup to eventing Olympian Will Coleman (center); and Christian Simonson (right), recipient of the Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Trophy, with his coach and Olympic dressage silver medalist Adrienne Lyle (left).

(Left to right) Devon Kane, Terri Rollins Kane, Karin Flint and Rowan O’Riley; Margaret Duprey, the recipient of the R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award, with Olympic show jumping gold medalist Laura Kraut and Isabel Kurek; and Pan American Games eventing gold medalist Marilyn Little and Steve Williams.

(Left to right) Olympic show jumping gold medalist Laura Kraut (right) with her mother Carol Kent; Carol Hoffman, Olympic show jumping gold medalist Anne Kursinski, William Coleman and Mary Catlett; and R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award recipient Margaret Duprey with Paralympic dressage bronze medalist Rebecca Hart.

(Left to right) Karin Flint, USET Foundation Chair, CEO and President Jim McNerney, Nicholas de Lavalette and Elizabeth de Lavalette; Gloria Callen, Beth Meyer and Betsy Juliano; and USET Foundation Executive Director Bonnie Jenkins, Rowan O’Riley and Celene Oken.

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

‘BOOGIE IN THE BAYOU’ FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE IN WELLINGTON

The Village of Wellington hosted its annual Father Daughter Dance with the theme “Boogie in the Bayou,” inspired by The Princess and the Frog, on Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Wellington Recreation Center. Dozens of young ladies attended the fun-filled event with their father or other special father figure.

(Left to right) Alex and Brent Roy; Anthony Lastra, Jeffrey Goldman, Damien Andre, Debbie Liquori, Rick Febles and Maeson Frost serve dinner; Alice and Justin Valderrama; Victoria and Ryan Artim; and Harper and Mike Haloostock with Reece and Matthew Kwasman.

(Left to right) Kehlani and Chet Manuel with Brianna and Brian Stinson; Janelle and Carl Duval; Sarah, Lilah and Todd Barron; Bridget, Brooke and Mike Hugo with Elsa; and Hailey McVay, Hanna Davis, Reagan Valentine and Zoe Rodriguez-Croner with Elsa.

INNOVATING LUNG CANCER TREATMENT. ELEVATING PERSONALIZED CARE.

LOCAL SPECIALISTS AT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL’S CANCER INSTITUTE HARNESS

THE POWER OF ACADEMIC MEDICINE TO DELIVER SUPERIOR CANCER CARE.

Dr. Robert Scoma is a thoracic surgeon with Tampa General’s Cancer Institute, which is nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report and the Commission on Cancer (CoC) for excellent care. With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Scoma treats all aspects of thoracic surgical oncology, delivering his esteemed expertise with compassion and personalized care. As part of Tampa General’s Cancer Institute, Dr. Scoma brings access to academic innovation, groundbreaking research and clinical trials to patients in Palm Beach County. And for those needing complex care at Tampa General, Dr. Scoma works with Tampa General’s Health Care Ambassadors to seamlessly coordinate care and to follow up.

For a consultation with Dr. Scoma, please call (561) 739-4TGH (4844).

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

VILLAGE MUSIC CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH FUNDRAISING FESTIVAL

In honor of its 10th anniversary, Village Music Wellington presented an all-day music festival and fundraising event on Saturday, Feb. 4. The event was in partnership with the nonprofit organization A Spring of Hope and featured five-time Grammy-winning South African bassist Bakithi Kumalo. Learn more about Village Music at www.villagemusiccafe.com.

(Left to right) A Spring of Hope board members Gail Auguston-Koppen, Bakithi Kumalo and Charmaine Johnson-Leong; Jacob and Benjamin Lustig practice; Fernando and Kim Deldago with Barbara and Scott Carr; and Mike and Stephanie Barker.

(Left to right) Carol Moroco-Newmark and Scott Newmark; singers Pam Knight and Dottie Kelly; sculptor Norman Gitzen makes a heart from a horseshoe; Village Music owner Donna Willey on stage; and South African bassist Bakithi Kumalo performs.

BROOKE USA

One Very Successful Event Down; Two More To Go In Wellington

Brooke USA Foundation’s approach to building awareness among various sectors of the Wellington market proved to be right on target with the resounding success of Brooke USA’s “The Watering Hole,” a pool party targeting young riders and providing the right venue and means for relaxation on a Monday afternoon at the National Polo Center. More than 250 riders and friends were in at-

In total, the event, planned by Brooke USA’s Young Professionals, raised close to $75,000 toward underwriting water troughs for working equines in Ethiopia, where access to basic water is a problem due to worsening drought conditions and lack of current services.

“Reality is that without water, crops cannot grow, and animals and livestock die,” said Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. “We are ever so grateful to Brooke USA’s Young Professionals for taking an interest in our work and for ensuring that the party truly had a purpose – helping those who are severely affected by water shortages in Ethiopia.”

Brooke USA’s Young Professionals and 2023 Event Committee for “The Watering Hole” was comprised of cochairs Ash Atkinson and Morgan Measey, Kaela Genovese, Brianne Link and Robert Reyers. The event was sponsored by Human Touch, OnCourse Consignment, Media Zone, Equisite Elements of Style, Poll to Tail Magnawave, Cugini Winery, Star Liquors, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Project Florida and Maxwell’s Plum. Even a Sipand-Shop for those looking to accessorize and buy clothing, jewelry and equestrian items was on-hand thanks to La Enovese Designs, Caryna Nina, Veltri, Palm Harbor Boutique, Kai Lassen and Sofie’s Boutique. The “sip” part of the “shop” was sponsored by Hotels at Sea and Celebrity Cruises, featuring their exclusive Celebration Oasis Rosé.

Right around the corner, Brooke USA’s remaining events will be taking place Sunday, March 19 with “Ponies

& Pearls,” during the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship Final on Field One at the National Polo Center. Sponsors, to date, include Celebrity Cruises & Hotels At Sea, Gill Johnston and Valley Bank. Only two Golden Goal Table Sponsors remain, and one Silver Goal Table Sponsor is still available. The event does offer a Bronze Goal Table Sponsorship, as well as individual tickets. “Ponies & Pearls” will benefit female empowerment programs across Kenya, as women have proven to gain most from Brooke’s interventions when it comes to husbandry and first-aid training, thus increasing women’s skills and the likelihood of added income for the family. The event is chaired by Brooke USA board members Lisa Bair, Gill Johnston and Lisa Spoden.

Lastly, “Divertimentos & Dressage, presented by Lugano Diamonds,” will offer a dressage musical freestyle to the live performances of the Palm Beach Symphony with riders JJ Tate and Rebecca Hart, both Brooke USA Ambassadors, Todd Flettrich, Sahar Daniel Hirosh, Jim Koford and Allison Kavey. On Thursday, March 23 at the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, spectators will be overwhelmed by the beauty of this event when horses, orchestra and guests share the arena. Chairs Selma Garber and Margaret Hamilton Duprey are in full planning mode for “Divertimentos & Dressage” and have a guaranteed unforgettable affair.

To purchase tickets for Brooke USA’s upcoming events, visit www.brookeusaevents. org and follow Brooke USA on Instagram and Facebook.

DJ Lexey performs by the pool.

(L-R) Katherine Coleman, Brooke USA Ambassador Kasey Perry Glass, Meghan Laffin and Alex Garrett; Ash Atkinson, Kaela Genovese, Robert Reyers, Brianne Link and Morgan Measey with Brooke USA Donor Relations Officer Kendall Bierer; and Kendall Bryan with Brooke USA Ambassador Andrew Bourns.

tendance sharing drinks, food, music by DJ Lexey and entertainment, games, shopping and auctions.

AGDF

WORLD’S FINEST DRESSAGE ON DISPLAY

2023 Adequan Global Dressage Festival Showcases 10 Weeks Of Exciting Competition

The 12th annual Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) started off its 12week competition circuit in Wellington on Jan. 11 and runs until March 31. With two weeks off during the first four weeks, the show runs consecutively for the last eight weeks.

During these weeks, some of the top Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) dressage riders from around the world will ride in the AGDF International Ring to compete and qualify for numerous championships, including the World Cup, Festival of Champions and the North American Youth Championships. Spectators are welcome to watch their favorite riders compete from Thursday through Sunday each CDI week.

AGDF Director of Sport Thomas Baur invites everyone out to the dressage festival showgrounds at Equestrian Village to enjoy all the beautiful horses and great performances.

The high point of each week is the Friday Night Stars event featuring Grand Prix freestyles from some of the top riders around the world.

“Our highlight of the week is always the Friday Night Stars with the musical freestyles,” Baur said. “That is al-

ways something very entertaining, and we have a lot of spectators there. That, for me, is the most recommended part of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival.”

In addition to the freestyles on Friday evenings, the two most prestigious events are the Nations Cup taking place during Week 7 and the CDI5* during Week 10 hosted at Wellington International. Some of the countries that will be represented during the circuit aside from the United States will be Germany, France, Canada, Portugal, Spain, Japan, Denmark, Australia, Sweden, Mexico, Thailand, Venezuela, Singapore, Turkey, Belgium, Chile and Switzerland.

Baur is very excited to see the flags of so many different countries on display at the AGDF, representing the many foreign dressage riders who have made the trip to spend the winter here in Wellington.

“At the Nation’s Cup week, we have seven countries being represented, and that is really something very special to have that many teams from different countries all across the world — from Europe, South America and North America,” Baur said.

Sarah Tubman rides First Apple at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. © SUSAN STICKLE

The $15,000 Lövsta Future Challenge/Young Horse Grand Prix series for horses eight to 10 years of age and the $10,000 Future Challenge/Young Horse Prix St. Georges series for horses ages seven to nine years old will be held over the season as well.

Riders have five weeks of qualifying chances at the AGDF during weeks 3, 5, 7, 8, and 10. The top two horses from each week will be qualified for the final to be held during AGDF Week 11. This event gives riders and trainers the chance to showcase their talented young horses in the International Ring in an exciting and electric environment without the pressure of international competition.

The most popular night of the season will be during Week 10 when dressage takes over Wellington International. The iconic International Ring will host the CDI5*, preparing the riders for a summer spent in Europe in intensely competitive environments.

“In Week 10, which is the dressage five-star week, we will have the Friday Night Stars across the street at the big jumping stadium,” Baur said. “It’s mainly for the top horses to see something else, not always at the same showgrounds, and it will also allow us to accommodate more spectators for the five-star night.”

This season is extra special because

spectators are once again able to see Olympic riders such as Adrienne Lyle. Lyle is highly decorated and won the Olympic team bronze medal with her teammates Sabine Schut-Kery and Steffen Peters. She will compete with Betsy Juliano’s stallion Salvino and show in many Friday Night Stars events to prepare for the FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha.

Two weeks of the season, Week 3 and Week 9, will also feature para-dressage. Para-dressage is the only equestrian sport in the Paralympics, and riders compete in one of five different grades based on the rider’s ability and what movements are allowed in each test. Grade I is a walk-only test, while Grades II and III are walk and trot. Grades IV and V are walk, trot and canter. The riders will compete in these three-day events with a freestyle on the final day. The para-dressage events will include one of the most decorated para riders, Roxanne Trunnell, who won an individual gold medal in the Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

For more information about the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, visit www. globaldressagefestival.com.

Morgan Barbançon rides Bolero at the AGDF in Wellington. © SUSAN STICKLE

Olympian Adrienne Lyle is honored with her mount Salvino. © SUSAN STICKLE

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FACES OF DRESSAGE

The majestic sport of dressage has returned to Wellington, home of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, for another amazing season. Often compared to horse ballet, or dancing with horses, dressage showcases the grace, beauty and elegance of a horse and rider pair working together as one. From elite international dressage to more introductory levels to the uplifting sport of para-dressage, all levels of the sport are on display here in Wellington this winter. While the riders and their mounts make it look effortless in the ring, dressage performances are often the end result of years of hard work. If you are not familiar with this graceful sport, be sure to check it out. For those new to dressage, one way to learn more is to visit one of the Friday Night Stars events to enjoy the lyrical musical freestyle classes. Once again, we celebrate this amazing determination and hard work in Faces of Dressage 2023, highlighting just a few of the incredible riders you can see in action this winter at the AGDF.

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MORGAN BARBANÇON

MORGAN BARBANÇON

Morgan Barbançon is not only fluent in French, English, Spanish, Catalan, Dutch and German, but she’s an Olympic dressage rider. In 2012, at the summer Olympics in London, she placed seventh as a team and 23rd in the individual competition. In 2015, at the FEI World Cup Finals in Las Vegas, Barbançon finished eighth. In January, Barbançon and Habana Libre won the Global Dressage Festival CDI4* Grand Prix in Wellington. Up until 2018, Barbançon competed internationally for Spain. She now competes for France.

ANNA BUFFINI

Anna Buffini represents the United States in dressage, and talent runs in her family. Her mother, Beverly Robinson, played volleyball at the collegiate level. She was selected as an alternate for the U.S. team that played at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul. Buffini earned several top dressage results early in the 2021 season with her Hanoverian mare FRH Davinia La Douce, placing third in the FEI Grand Prix and FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3* at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival.

ANNA BUFFINI

PATRICIA FERRANDO

PATRICIA FERRANDO

Patricia Ferrando is a Venezuelan dressage rider. She competed at the 2019 PanAmerican Games in Lima, where she finished 12th in the finals, and at the 2015 Pan-American Games in Toronto. One of the most successful dressage riders from Venezuela, Ferrando trains with Yvonne Losos de Muñiz. She aims to represent Venezuela at the Olympic Games.

© SUSAN STICKLE

© SUSAN STICKLE

© SUSAN STICKLE

BEATRICE DE LAVALETTE REBECCA HART

BEATRICE DE LAVALETTE

Beatrice de Lavalette represents the United States in para-dressage and was a member of the U.S. Para-Dressage Team for the Tokyo Paralympic Games with her horse Clarc. De Lavalette lost both of her lower legs in the 2016 terrorist bombing at the Brussels airport. She started riding again five months after the attack. She has an impressive résumé and has had tremendous success.

Beatrice and Sixth Sense have won several CPEDI3* events in Wellington already this year.

REBECCA HART

Rebecca Hart is a para-equestrian originally from Pittsburgh. Hart was born with a rare genetic disorder, Familial Spastic Paraplegia. Her life with horses has been extraordinary, as she is a three-time Paralympian: in 2008, 2012 and 2016. She went to the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games and placed 9th individually. Beyond the Paralympics, Hart has racked up a long list of accomplishments in the sport of paradressage. She will be back in the show ring at the paradressage events in Wellington this season.

CHRISTOPH KOSCHEL

German dressage rider Christoph Koschel approaches his sport with the following philosophy: “Recognize the feel and diversity of each and every horse. See the positives and be able to adjust.” He competed at the 2010 World Equestrian Games and the 2011 European Dressage Championships, where he won a medal in the team competition. Last year, he rode American-owned Dunensee to win the CDI4* Grand Prix in Wellington. He is back in Wellington this year and will be an exciting competitor to watch.

CHRISTOPH KOSCHEL

© SUSAN STICKLE

© SUSAN STICKLE

WELLINGTON 2615SStateRoad7 Wellington,FL33414-9370

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*At participating locations only. Free enhancement cannot exceed $15. Vouchers have no cash value and can only be redeemed by the new member at the location where new member entered into the membership agreement. Other terms and exclusions apply. See front desk or

ROXANNE TRUNNELL

ROXANNE TRUNNELL

Roxanne Trunnell represents the United States in para-dressage. She contracted a virus in 2009 that caused swelling in her brain, putting her in a coma and resulted in her requiring a wheelchair. Since then, she has accomplished a great deal in her riding career. She won three medals at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, including a gold medal in the Individual Championship Test Grade I and Individual Freestyle Test Grade I events, and a bronze medal in the team open event.

ADRIENNE LYLE

Adrienne Lyle has a lengthy list of accomplishments as a top dressage rider and coach. She represented Team USA at the Olympic Games in London and Tokyo and brought home a team silver medal with her longtime partner Salvino. Lyle is currently ranked 11th in the world. Most recently, Lyle and Salvino won the FEI World Cup Grand Prix at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in January.

VILHELMSON-SILFVÉN

TINNE VILHELMSON-SILFVÉN

The ever-impressive Tinne Vilhelmson-Silvén represents Sweden and has competed at seven Olympic Games. She placed fourth in team dressage in 1992 and in team dressage in Beijing in 2008. She also placed eighth at the 2016 Olympics. A regular at the AGDF, Vilhelmson-Silvén won the Global Dressage Festival Friday Night Stars aboard Devanto last year. It’s safe to say the crowd will be excited to see what she brings to the arenas this year in Wellington.

© SUSAN STICKLE

Saturday Night Lights

World-class equestrian action, entertainment, dining and shopping for the whole family!

Every Saturday from January 7 - March 25

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FREDERIC WANDRES

German dressage rider Frederic Wandres has an impressive résumé. He competed at the 2022 FEI World Championships in Herning, where he received a bronze medal with the German team. He was on the long list for the Olympic Games in Tokyo and won a gold medal in 2019 at the World Championships for Young Dressage Horses. Recently, Wandres and Bluetooth OLD won the CDI4* Freestyle in Wellington.

AGDF

VITALII VITLEO

CREATING THE PERFECT FREESTYLE

Go Behind The Scenes With Choreographer Terry Gallo And Dressage Rider Sarah Lockman Tubman

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

The word “dressage” originates from the French word “dresseur,” which means to train. Dating back to 350 A.D., dressage finds its roots firmly planted in military soil. Creating a well-trained horse that was agile, quick and clever with footfalls provided the upper hand on the battlefield, when quite literal death hung in the balance. Today, dressage is an art form pursued fiercely for more sport-centric reasons, lending itself to the professional competitor and adult amateur alike.

One of the most thrilling parts of modern-day dressage is the musical freestyle program that draws an enthusiastic following. Dressage freestyles, comparable to freestyles in figure skating, join required movements into a test choreographed to music specifically chosen by the rider to have a specific emotion they wish to present to their judges and the public.

A former gymnastics coach specializing in musical editing makes Terry Gallo of Klassic Kur a bit of an unlikely suspect to be the frontrunner in choreographing dressage freestyle programs for the biggest names in the sport. With more than three decades of experience in the field, her portfolio includes Debbie McDonald, Adrienne Lyle, Steffen Peters, Laura Graves and more.

Gallo’s process of engineering a freestyle makes sure that it checks off all three of the key ingredients — tempo, suitability and rider preference.

“Creating a spectacular and custom program requires a great deal of input from the rider,” she said. “Ideally, I am onsite for the initial consultation, so I can watch the horse and rider move and interact, find out musical preferences and pinpoint the desired feeling that the rider wants to elicit from those watching. This initial process takes about two and a half hours, but that is just the tip of the iceberg!”

Gallo brings a library of music along to the consult to match the tempo of the music to the horse’s natural gait. “I don’t sit there in an ivory choreography tower and tell the rider what to do,” she said. “I listen to the rider closely and design the program to specifically fit the horse and rider pair. I want it to look as if the horse is dancing right along with the music and moving to the beat.”

The next step in completing the program is ensuring its suitability. “You want to match the expression of the horse with the musical selections,” Gallo explained. “If the horse is a big, bold mover, you need a big, bold piece to complement it.”

©

Lastly, and most importantly, the rider must like the musical selections.

“Some horse and rider pairs are more musical than others,” Gallo said. “They have to feel moved by the music as a team, so the judges believe the story they are telling. By editing the music around the choreography, you can shape the way the program is visually and audibly interpreted.”

The longest part of the process is choosing and then finding the music in Gallo’s extensive library.

“After those parts are completed, I send them a file with my voice over so they can see what I had in mind for interpretation of the piece,” she said. “The riders need to study it at length before they even try to ride it. In some cases, there may be minor adjustments to the program, but all totaled, I am usually in about 20 to 25 hours of work per piece.

For a Grand Prix freestyle, the fee is approximately $5,000, and the pricing goes down as the levels

go down. I have to pull and edit fewer pieces of music, as there are fewer of movements to choreograph.”

When it’s showtime, Gallo is often there to watch.

“I don’t get nervous watching the pieces I have created being ridden down centerline, as there is nothing I can do at that point, but I do recall holding my

breath for entirely too long watching Debbie McDonald and Brentina in Las Vegas and Steffen Peters in Aachen.”

Talented Grand Prix competitor Sarah Lockman Tubman has worked with Gallo on creating a freestyle program.

“We work with Terry to help us come up with the choreography. My husband, Lee Tubman, is also a 4* FEI judge, so he has judged many Friday night freestyles. He knows what movements look good strung together and score well,” Tubman said. “We have to submit a ‘floor plan’ before we compete that tells the judges the order in which the movements are going to be performed. We get extra points for stringing harder movements together.”

A score for a freestyle’s “degree of difficulty” plays a large part in the final score, so that’s why it’s important to push the choreography to the limit, Tubman said.

One of the hardest parts of creating a freestyle program is picking the music.

“We may have our own ideas of what we might like for music, but sometimes the music we like won’t actually go with the horse,” Tubman said. “Terry Gallo,

Sarah Lockman Tubman with her husband, dressage judge Lee Tubman.

Choreographer Terry Gallo is an expert in creating dressage freestyles.

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who has created countless Olympic freestyles, uses a metronome to pick the horse’s tempo, and then we pick a few songs that work. After that, we will ride the horse to the music. It’s funny, because honestly, sometimes the horse picks the music. You will turn on the song, and the horse seems to just start dancing!”

Each level of freestyle has a list of required movements to be performed. “Almost everything is from the International Grand Prix test, from

simple things like 20 meters of collected walk and 20 meters of extended walk, to piaffe for 10 steps in a straight line,” Tubman said. “Working from the list of required movements, that’s where we decide how many movements we can string together in a way to increase the degree of difficulty but highlight our horse’s strengths.”

She likes to highlight her mount First Apple’s strengths during the performance. “Apple’s highlights are the passage and also his incredible flying changes that we show on a circle and on bending line,” Tubman said. “His ability to be elastic is unbelievable, so we show an extended canter into a double pirouette into one tempi changes on a bending line.”

As a professional trainer, she uses the musical freestyle for another reason that is far less obvious to spectators.

“We have used the freestyle and the

ability to choreograph our own test to help build confidence in this young Grand Prix horse,” Tubman said. “We always notice that after a freestyle competition, he is more confident in the work not only at home, but also in the regular Grand Prix tests. He is a showman and loves the atmosphere and the lights and the crowd!”

While it is important to make it challenging, it’s equally important to get the ride right.

“We have to plan as difficult a freestyle as is possible that we know we can ride mistake-free,” Tubman said. “If it’s too difficult, and you make a lot of mistakes, then you will end up with a lower mark, and the horse will lack confidence. It’s better to ride it clean and on time with the music.”

Learn more about Terry Gallo at www. klassickur.com and Sarah Lockman Tubman at www.sldressage.com.

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PIROUETTE, PIAFFE & PENALTIES

Seeing Dressage Through The Eyes Of Rider, Coach And Trainer Debbie McDonald

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

Hailing from Hailey, Idaho, Debbie McDonald is a household name in the world of dressage. During her illustrious career as a professional horseman, McDonald was awarded the bronze medal for team dressage at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games; she represented the United States, winning two gold medals at the 1999 Pan American Games; and has recently accepted the position to once again be the dressage technical advisor for the United States Equestrian Federation.

Starting her riding career as a top hunter jumper, McDonald made the switch to dressage in 1990 following several injuries and the birth of her son. “When you’re young and get injured, you just bounce back. When you’re a mom, you think to yourself, ‘I need to be around!’” she said.

The transition between the two disciplines proved to be most challenging for McDonald in ways one might not have thought.

“I couldn’t sit the trot, because riding jumpers, we never sat the trot, I posted everywhere,” she laughed, remembering her early days of dressage training. “They

put me on this large, massive mound of leather, and I’m like, ‘I can’t sit on this, there is just no way.’ I was sent to Hil da Gurney, and I stayed on a lunge line for a very long time. I went from be ing at the very top of my sport to the bottom of the barrel in dressage. I sat there on that lunge line and figured out that dang sitting trot until I could stay quieter in the saddle. I was granted the opportunity to ride my first Grand Prix schoolmaster named Cashmere. It was then that I was sold that this is what I really wanted to do. He was older, but he knew all the buttons, and he gave me the feeling and the timing.”

Her own experiences in the saddle have made McDonald an excellent coach and teacher.

“Sometimes you watch riders from the very beginning, and you know they just have that natural and innate talent to be world class riders,” McDonald explained.

“You also have the riders who can become world class,” she continued. “I would say I was a become, because I was not a natural. When I started in jumping, I fell off every single day, over every single jump. I just couldn’t learn how to stay on the horse. I was bound and determined that I was just going to do it. When I think back to that, because I struggled and I didn’t have that natural ability, I think I can maybe pass some of that on to somebody who doesn’t quite have that natural talent. I can help them think through that experience. But, no, I was not a natural in any way shape or form.”

This lifetime of experiences has led her to her current career as a coach and technical advisor. “Getting to where the Grand Prix can be ridden in a way that looks easy, is my goal for every rider I get to work with,” McDonald said.

She loves to see a horse and rider pair that has really taken their time to develop true partnership and harmony. Classical train-

ing and harmony are a huge part of the sport, and McDonald finds working with horses just as fascinating as working with riders.

“I honestly love helping a horse figure out how to use its body in the pirouettes, passage and piaffe,” McDonald said. “What fascinates me is the timing of it and finding a way of communicating in a way that the horse isn’t stressed. You have to read the horse. Some horses are just so naturally gifted at it that it’s basically teaching them how to get in and out of the movement. Then there are other horses that people will say, ‘I don’t know. I’m not sure if they will get this.’ Taking the time to help that horse understand with the help of a good ground person, I find that process to be one of the most exciting and rewarding.”

The level of training with the horse and rider often corresponds directly to the dressage scores.

“For me, what really separates so many in the show ring is that piaffe and passage tour, because you can see the level of training there. You even see it in the walk,” McDonald said. “You can have a horse currently sitting at a 75, come down into the walk and now be in the 60s. You can have a horse that does all

the other stuff and doesn’t have a quality walk that’s iffy laterally, or there just isn’t enough overstep in the extended, and it is just enough of a penalty to keep you out of the top rankings. Pirouettes are fascinating to me also. To keep a horse in an honest, true, collected canter, be able to turn around and still have that moment of suspension without becoming a spin, a canter pirouette done well is pure magic to me.”

McDonald sees herself as a true advocate for the horse.

“The biggest danger we have in the progression of this classical sport are riders in the wrong hands working on a timeline — riders who aren’t being smart and paying attention to what the horse is trying to say,” she said. “I would rather see a horse be a fantastic small tour horse rather than be broken trying to make it a Grand Prix horse, when you know in your mind that it probably won’t be a top horse. This hurts me because we need all of these horses, not just the top of the top. Make the horse the best it can be, but don’t push it past that.”

It is this attitude toward the sport of dressage that will ensure its longevity and beauty, as well as the animals that help make it happen.

Rider, coach and trainer Debbie McDonald has been a key player in the dressage world for decades.

“Sometimes you watch riders from the very beginning, and you know they just have that natural and innate talent to be world class riders. You also have the riders who can become world class.”

— Debbie McDonald

KNOW THE DRESSAGE MOVEMENTS

FEI 5* Judge Janet Foy On What Is Required In The Dressage Ring

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

Janet Foy is a name often mentioned in competitive dressage circles. As a dressage judge, she brings high expectations of attention to detail and accurate riding.

A United States Dressage Federation bronze, silver and gold medalist herself, Foy, a native of Colorado Springs, now lives in Wellington. She has created a legacy rich in the acumen and accomplishments necessary to hold the elite position of FEI 5* and USEF dressage judge.

Being a member of the United States selector panel for the 2004 Athens Olympics, the 2006 and 2010 World Equestrian Games, the 2007 Pan Am games and the 2008 Beijing Olympics certainly more than qualifies her to be the authority in assessing the benchmark of quality within the sport of dressage.

As a dressage rider looking to progress through the levels, or the eager spectator in the grandstands, it can be a touch allusive to know exactly what the judges are looking for and what is required to get an excellent mark.

When asked what makes for a successful or unsuccessful horse and rid-

er pair in the FEI and lower-level tests alike, Foy emphasized that in both, “in accurate figures, not using corners and lack of preparation” are among the most common and most costly of mistakes that she sees made by the dressage rid ers in the ring.

Regardless of the movement it self, whether it be passage and pir ouettes in the Grand Prix, or a stretchy trot circle at E in a train ing level test, the preparation for each individual foot fall is inte gral to the success, fluidity and, ultimately, the score of each unique requirement asked of the pair.

Foy stressed that no movements stand out from any other in degrees of im portance.

“All movements are im portant to the level,” she said. “Perhaps the riders have a favorite, but it is not my job to have one.”

This beautifully stated perspective of objectivity provides some clarity to

those piloting their horses down centerline — every step is of equal responsibility and deserving of the utmost attention.

With as much depth and scope of the sport from inside the judges’ box, inquiring minds want to know if there have been any distinct moments, tests or experiences that stood out as personal highlights for Foy.

“The ride in Herning [Denmark] from the freestyle of [world champion horse] Glamourdale gave me goosebumps, as did the Tokyo [Olympics] ride of Dalera BB,” she said.

To hear genuine excitement from someone who has been wrapped up in horses as long as Foy is a refreshing beacon to all who have a deep and soulful love of horses, proving that the magic of it is never lost if you just look for it.

Casting her focus toward future goals and her personal vision for the next generation of up-andcoming riders, Foy had advice

on how to bring them along in the correct way. “Find a trainer who has good basics and experience at the level you are working,” she said. “Not everyone needs a Grand Prix rider at first level. Develop a good seat. If your trainer won’t do lunge lessons, find a new one.”

In other words, don’t be in a rush to move more quickly than your confirmed skill set, and surround yourself with people who will help you create a solid and correct foundation for the future demands of your riding career. The beauty of the sport is truly born in the basics.

Dressage judge Janet Foy during a clinic session.

“Find a trainer who has good basics and experience at the level you are working. Not everyone needs a Grand Prix rider at first level. Develop a good seat. If your trainer won’t do lunge lessons, find a new one.”

— Janet Foy

Janet Foy (center) holds the elite position of FEI 5* and USEF dressage judge. © SUSAN STICKLE

AGDF

THE MANE EVENT

Keeping Horses Looking Good Goes So Much Deeper Than The Braids

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

In the world of competitive horse showing, braiding and grooming are a usual part of the artistic showmanship of the event, particularly in the sport of dressage. From a functional standpoint, braiding a horse’s mane and tail has been done for hundreds of years to prevent the hair from getting tangled in the riding equipment the horse wears. Keeping the mane and tail braided as a matter of daily maintenance can keep the individual hairs from becoming damaged and broken.

In today’s modern show scene, braiding or plaiting a horse’s mane enriches the horse’s appearance by showing off the muscling and silhouette of the horse’s neck for judging purposes. When showing, competitors take great care to present a tidy picture out of respect for the horse, the sport and the judges.

In order to get a glimpse of what goes into managing and maintaining a horse at the very top of the sport, we spoke with Carly Muma, head groom and stable manager for dressage rider Susie Dutta.

Growing up in rural Michigan as a young rider, Muma participated in 4H and hunters with a premarin mare that her mother had given her. She devel-

oped a superior work ethic to complement her empathic nature and innate attention to detail, which has taken her to the top of the sport of dressage.

As an up-and-coming professional in the industry, Muma pursued the world of eventing and found herself as a groom and rider for Buck Davidson Eventing and BDJ Equestrian in Pennsylvania. In her role there, she learned just how demanding the professional horse world can be, how extremely difficult it is to find balance in your work and personal lives as a whole, and how always having an open mind allows you to learn new ways of doing things.

“We have to keep in mind that we don’t know everything and need to give priority to the controllable aspects of horse care,” Muma said.

During her time training, grooming and traveling for team BDJ, Muma forged a relationship with Tim and Susie Dutta of the Dutta Corporation, for whom she is now the head groom and stable manager of their international string of dressage horses. She finds herself truly bonded with each of the five equine athletes under her direct care and takes the time necessary to know their every behavioral pattern, bump, bruise, noise, gait and request.

Being this precise and particular about her horses’ care allows her to not miss the smallest of details and prevents issues before they start.

When asked what essential tools she could not live without in her daily grooming kit, the answer was one of a wise professional who knew that the tools of her sport only supplement the greatest asset of all — good and safe horsemanship.

“A basic, good-quality brush and curry go a long way and are accessible to everyone,” Muma said. “Good horsemanship and a quality feed and farrier are the simplest of ways to keep your horse safely at their best, starting from the inside out, from the core.”

Muma always keeps her focus on the horses in her care.

“Good, basic horsemanship was instilled in me from the beginning, and sometimes I feel like that lacks. It is so easy just to rush through your day, and then you

lose the details,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re doing hunter plaits, dressage button braids or banding for a western pleasure class, it is all in the details and being consistent to your program.”

As stable manager for Susie Dutta, Muma has soaked up any and all knowledge and experience to grow her abilities in horse husbandry using a wide array of modalities. In her daily set of therapies, she uses shock wave, Sport Innovations

blankets and laser therapies to bolster her horses’ wellness regimen.

She offers wise advice to anyone involved in this all-encompassing love of horses.

“No matter what sport you compete in, even if you are purely a recreational weekend warrior, we all do it for the love of the horse,” Muma said. “We are their voice. It’s just making sure they are healthy and happy. Keep it simple and pay close attention to the basics of your horses’ care and maintenance. I know that if they are healthy and happy, they will do whatever it is we ask. They will put their heart and soul into it.”

Carly Muma finds herself truly bonded with each of the five equine athletes under her direct care here. © LILY FORADO

Carly Muma always keeps her focus on the horses in her care.

“No matter what sport you compete in, even if you are purely a recreational weekend warrior, we all do it for the love of the horse. We are their voice. It’s just making sure they are healthy and happy.”

— Carly Muma

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LOVE THE PROCESS, NOT JUST THE PRODUCT

Dressage Rider Lauren Chumley On The Value Of Personally Training Your Own Horses

BY CHARITY LUCENTE

It is easy to look at a Grand Prix test as a spectator, and get lost in the polished, shiny, seemingly effortless presentation of the horse and rider pair. What spectators may not appreciate at the moment of that final salute are the thousands of hours of incredible investment that have produced it.

Lauren Chumley of Lauren Chumley Dressage knows the hard work that is required to make top-level dressage tests happen. She knows every aspect of fashioning a horse from a foal to the CDI ring, over and over again.

Chumley has made a name for herself in the industry as a supportive and fun coach, an honest and authentic businesswoman, and a relentlessly hardworking competitor. Starting her riding career at the age of 12 in Hamilton, Ohio, she knew right away that dressage was her path.

With the funding necessary to achieve her goals not always at her fingertips, Chumley developed her well-known work ethic and adopted her philosophy that success is the only option available to her. Currently, she is a United States Dressage Federation bronze, silver and gold medalist who is making her mark in both dressage and eventing. She has

competed through Grand Prix and has earned multiple USDF year-end and all-breeds awards at the national level, in addition to running a hugely successful training and sales program both in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, and in down here in Loxahatchee.

Chumley brings a unique perspective on achieving the higher levels of dressage and the hidden value of investment in the individual by competing with a mount that you have personally trained. She places a high importance on becoming a well-rounded horseman, and how that can only enhance a rider’s career as a competitive professional.

When asked how she would inspire and direct the next generation of dressage riders, she warned of the importance of setting young riders up with an emphasis placed primarily on the FEI Juniors, FEI Young Riders and Under 25 riders.

“It is a pretty tall order and very rarely done, for someone 21 or younger to

Dressage rider Lauren Chumley runs a successful training and sales operation. © CONKLIN PHOTOGRAPHIC

train a 70-percent-plus CDI small tour horse,” Chumley said. “This means that the rider is riding someone else’s training, which is great, and it absolutely is important to learn how to navigate the test. However, at the end of that time, the riders haven’t necessarily learned the valuable process of how to produce a horse to that level. They have learned how to steer through the Prix St. George really well on a horse that somebody else put the work in on.”

While this approach has its value, she believes that there is not enough emphasis on the path of training horses from soup to nuts.

“There are a precious few trainers in this country who will ride threeyear-olds and then do a CDI Grand Prix,” Chumley said. “There are just not that many.”

The pendulum of a well-rounded trainer has to swing so far to train a horse all the way through. Yet riders and trainers need this knowledge on a very deep and intimate level, so they are able to reproduce a reliable result.

While a large number of young professionals are focused on how to secure funding to fuel their programs, Chumley cautioned this next generation to not make their career reliant on a sponsor. After all, lives change, and relationships change, putting the riders’ string of horses constantly in jeopardy.

“If I were to lose one of my FEI horses right now, I’ll produce another one,” Chumley said. “You can’t unhorse me. This provides me security that no one can take away from me in this industry.”

Ideally, the sport’s focus would return to the training process and investing in becoming a trainer wealthy in experiential knowledge, able to reproduce the result, not buying the finished product. This means that riders should surround themselves with qualified instructors and a team of people to support them.

As Chumley noted, there is high value in going out and earning gold on a horse that a rider personally trains, rather than achieving it on someone else’s preparation. Put your own education as a horseman first and chip away at it. Each horse will hopefully get a little faster as you become more skillful.

Learn more about Lauren Chumley at www.laurenchumleydressage.com.

(561) 371-1075

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Immaculate totally updated lakefront, 5-bedroom, 3-bath, 3-car garage single story home on manicured .35-acre cul-de-sac lot. New a/c, new stainless-steel appliances & under mount stainless steel sink, granite counters, 42’’ maple kitchen cabinets, neutral tile, new carpet in all bedrooms, freshly painted, covered patio, open & bright. FOR ANNUAL RENT $4,100/month.

You’ll love this beautiful, 1-story single family featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus an office with a screened in pool. This home features an open kitchen with granite counter tops, newer cabinets and newer appliances French door refrigerator, wood burning fireplace, oak wood floors, wet bar, fenced yard, and so much more. Close to shopping and schools. Offered at $525,900.

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Lauren Chumley places high value on dressage riders training their own horses. © SUSAN STICKLE

ISLES AT WELLINGTON:

LA MANCHA:

BOOTS FIT FOR OLYMPIANS

Artisan-Made In The USA, Der Dau Brings

Classic And Fashionable Footwear To Wellington

BY ELEANOR BOURNE

Founded more than 50 years ago by Jose Der, Der Dau Custom Made Boots & Shoes incorporates the skills of master leather artisans to thoughtfully craft the best riding boots for customers.

Der Dau has built its reputation throughout the decades, and the company is highly regarded by top riders for exceptional quality and comfort. Now operated under Jose’s son, Joseph Der, Der Dau continues to help dedicated equestrians of all levels create boots that match their riding needs and personal style.

Each boot is hand-crafted to fit the individual customer, using a wide selection of the finest leathers with an array of designs available to ensure that each boot captures the specific needs of every client. Der Dau boots are designed to the exact measurements of each rider and molded to ensure a “second skin” fit.

Over the years, Der Dau has been known for its remarkable hands-on customer service. In addition to the firm’s thoughtful care during the creation process, the company also offers alterations and repairs for every Der Dau customer. The team of experienced leather crafts-

men will repair any damaged boot so that customers can avoid the expense of replacement. They work closely with every rider to ensure product longevity, so clients don’t have to worry about the inconvenience of repeatedly breaking in boots.

Der Dau boots have been the top choice of riders of all levels, including Olympians.

“Der Dau has been a partner of mine

for most of my career,” five-time Olympic medalist and professional show jumper McLain Ward said. “Not only is their product first-grade and enhances our performance, but they’re a great group of people to work with.”

Ward has worn his Der Dau boots to countless championships and maintains a loyal relationship with the company.

“We won the Grand Prix of Geneva in December in the boots I’m wearing

(Top) McLain Ward on Contagious at the Tokyo Olympics. (Above left) An array of Der Dau boots at the company’s booth at Wellington International. (Above right) Jose and Joseph Der in Der Dau booth at the Winter Equestrian Festival.

PHOTO BY ANNAN HEPNER

PHOTO BY ELEANOR BOURNE

today,” Ward said. “For us, it was one of the biggest achievements in the sport.”

Der Dau boots are worn by many other well-known professionals, including champion hunter rider Peter Pletcher, who has worked with Der Dau for many years.

“I’ve known [Joseph Der] for as long as I can remember — since the first Der Dau stand started,” Pletcher said. “I think everybody should give Der Dau boots a try.”

In an effort to give back to the equestrian community, Der Dau has partnered with the Rider’s Closet to make riding boots accessible to more equestrians. Through a trade-in program, customers receive credit toward a new, custom pair of Der Dau “Dream Boots” when they trade-in a pair of boots of any brand. The old boots are then repaired as needed by Der Dau’s expert craftsmen before being donated to the Rider’s Closet.

Show jumper Georgina Bloomberg, founder of the Rider’s Closet, works closely with Joseph Der in order to help more riders.

“I have known Joseph Der for years now and always respected his work and his involvement in the horse show community,” she said. “I am thrilled to be able to work with him and his company,

as well as humbled and overwhelmed by his generosity toward my program.”

In addition to the company’s popular tall boots, Der Dau also offers custom paddock boots, half chaps, dressage boots, western boots and more in order to fit the needs of every rider, no matter the discipline. Der Dau also offers customizable leather belts and bags using a variety of exotic leathers in various colors for accessories that are functional and fashionable.

While Der Dau’s home base is in New York, they travel to the country’s most prestigious shows to exhibit products, including the Winter Equestrian Festival at Wellington International. Located in Vendor Village, the company offers onsite fittings, as well as drop-offs for repairs or trade-ins.

To learn more about Der Dau and designing a “Dream Boot” with Joseph Der, visit www.derdau.com or visit the vendor booth at WEF.

A Der Dau expert artisan hand making a pair of custom boots.

BUILDING BRIDGES IN THE COMMUNITY

Wellington’s Staff Serves Vital Roles In Connecting Our Great Hometown

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

As we begin to wrap up the first quarter of 2023, I am reminded of the many ways we, as public servants, serve as bridges to the community — connecting people with services, places and often with other people. When I was appointed as the village manager for our great hometown, my hope was to continue facilitating these connections throughout our community.

Village Employees

From our customer service representatives who answer phone calls and handle in-person transactions at each of our village facilities, to the public works and utility employees who maintain parks and buildings, manage our utilities and operate our infrastructure, our more than 300 full-time employees and more than 75 seasonal employees are all-in, all the time, making sure our residents continuously receive the unmatched services and amenities to which they are accustomed.

Technology Connections

We also leverage technology to provide these connections. In 2021, we

launched the GoWellington app. GoWellington is a platform designed for easy communication between Wellington residents and the Village of Wellington. In the first year, we processed more than 2,000 requests through the app. It streamlines the service request process and provides another way for residents to connect with the village and get a timely response.

People To Places

In many ways, the village also helps connect people to places. Our community events attract more than 120,000 people each year. From the Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances to our Independence Day and Fall Fest celebrations, our events have created places where people meet, have fun and form

yearly traditions. Our park maintenance team members keep Wellington’s 36plus parks beautiful, safe and state-ofthe-art so that families have places to spend time and unwind. Additionally, the community services team is helping bridge the mobility gap by bringing recreation programming to our neighborhood parks and providing organized activities at these locations through programs like Super Fridays. These initiatives have been successful and will continue through 2023.

Award-Winning Events

The village also serves as a bridge, forming connections among people. Our award-winning events and programs provide an inclusive platform for residents and visitors to enjoy our

great hometown. From cultural events throughout the year like our Lunar New Year and Pride Market celebrations at the Lakeside Market at Town Center, to our sensory inclusive activities at our Independence Day celebration and our Juneteenth celebration, Wellington is indeed a community welcome to all.

a Deputy opportunities and community education classes. Our parks and recreation staff connect with residents through classes, camps and various wellness events for residents and visitors of all ages.

Those programs and events are just some of the many initiatives led by a team that promotes and facilitates real social, cultural and civic connections in the community, year after year. Our Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 8 team continues to connect with the community, not only through their daily interactions with residents, but through proactive events, Coffee with

We also serve as bridges to the future. By maintaining smart fiscal policies, investing in innovation and infrastructure, engaging in thoughtful planning and implementing forward-thinking budgets, the Wellington Village Council and village employees are continuously building upon our past successes and proud traditions to ensure that Wellington is sustained, remaining a community of choice — vibrant, innovative, engaged and resilient — for generations to come.

WEEKLY EVENTS

MONDAYS 6:30 PM

Trivia Night with Freshly Baked Pizza!

1ST THURSDAY 7 PM Open

2ND THURSDAY 7 PM Jazz Night

3RD THURSDAY 7 PM

Cugini Wine Pairing Dinner

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 8 PM

LIVE MUSIC with some of the best performers from Florida and across the country, here on the Village Music Stage!

For over 20 years Froehlich and De La Rua have proudly served businesses and residents in the western communities. We’ll work with you to reassure you that your financial records are in order... that you receive the maximum benefit available.

Se Habla Español

John F. Froehlich

Betty De La Rua

Claudia Diesti

Diesti

A BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO

Lynette Laufenberg’s Balance Fitness Focuses On Personalized Wellness Plans For Clients

STORY BY CALLIE SHARKEY | PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

One of the challenges when it comes to tackling personal fitness is finding a safe, convenient space to work out. Many gyms are driven by numbers and contracts, but Lynette Laufenberg wanted to create something new at her Balance Fitness studio by putting her focus on the clientele and their individual needs.

“Before I start any client, I always do a complimentary consultation. We cover their health history, fitness history and what kind of activity they are currently doing,” Laufenberg said. “We talk about their current nutrition program. How is their sleep? What about their stress management? And, of course, what are their goals? From there, we can design a program.”

Everyone who steps into Balance Fit-

ness receives personalized care in carefully tailored programs. The experience is designed to remove the pressure and allow clients to focus on their own goals at their own pace and get the most positive results possible.

“Balance Fitness is a boutique studio that is very personal and very private. It’s all personal training. People in the studio are working with a trainer or taking a small class,” Laufenberg said. “We offer anything that meets an individual’s goals from a fitness or wellness standpoint. This includes strength training, cardio, flexibility and stretching, balance, yoga and Pilates sessions, boxing, battle ropes and even TRX [suspension weight training]. The boutique recently opened a shop for women’s fitness wear, too.

Clients will see plenty of equipment for training, but maybe not as many machines as they’d expect. Laufenberg focuses on training that goes beyond sitting down to push or pull.

“I’m not opposed to machines. I think machines can be fantastic, and there is a purpose to them, but I just believe so much in training movement patterns more than just training a muscle group,” she said. “It’s all functional work and training in multiple planes and directions — using your own body’s intrinsic core strength and balance. That is more effective for the average person.”

Balance Fitness is not a membershipbased facility, where one can join and come in to work out on their own.

Personal trainer Melissa Varvarigos, owner Lynette Laufenberg and personal trainer Bonnie Kretchik.

Lynette Laufenberg leads a yoga stretching class.

There are classes offered regularly in Pilates, vinyasa flow or refresh and restore yoga — the latter is perfect for beginners. The hour-long classes are available as drop-ins for $20 each, or a 10-class pass for $149.

“The studio is mainly a personal training studio,” Laufenberg said. “But the small group classes are great because it’s a way for people to get instruction with a social interaction and connection as well. They are able to take guidance in

a personal way that’s a little less expensive than personal training.”

The classes are small, with a maximum of 18 participants able to attend in person. What is unique about Balance Fitness is the classes are also simultaneously offered virtually through a livestreaming platform. Drop-in classes via livestream are $10 per session. For clients who love flexibility, they can purchase unlimited online and onsite group classes for $129 per month, or stick to

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

all livestream classes for $80 per month.

“I have students who travel and find they can still keep up with yoga if they want to and just take the class from wherever they happen to be. For people on screen, if they choose to turn on their camera, I see them all, and I give them tips and check on them throughout the class, as well as teaching the people in the studio,” Laufenberg said. “I do highly recommend starting out with in-person classes, especially if they are new.”

(Left to right) Personal trainer Bonnie Kretchik leads a class; owner Lynette Laufenberg works with Marge Sullivan; and Liz Wilson gets guidance from personal trainer Melissa Varvarigos.

Clients are also never locked into a contract. They can sign up and pay for classes online, or they can come in person to register. Monthly subscriptions are available on auto-pay or month-tomonth. They can even shift the subscription from in-person to all virtual with no penalties.

Balance Fitness is open Monday through Friday, with the first personal training session scheduled as early as 7 a.m., and the last one-hour private session at 4:30 p.m. Saturday group classes are also available at 9 a.m., and clients may reserve personal training sessions afterward.

Laufenberg has always included fitness in her own life, starting as a gymnast. While in college, she discovered group classes. After an instructor suggested she become a fitness instructor, she was hooked. Laufenberg migrated from Iowa to Florida in 1995, and Wellington became her permanent home in 1998. She spent 22 years at Ultima Fitness as the wellness and program director, while teaching classes and individual clients.

She opened Balance Fitness in 2020, shortly before the pandemic, and managed to keep going with a strong sup-

port crew and devoted clients. Laufenberg continued to follow her dream and her passion to help others.

“I would consider what I do as the bridge between therapy and fitness,” she said. “People will have a back problem or knee problem, and we teach them that movement is prescription. By learning how to move properly, stretch properly and strengthen the area, oftentimes you can help that person battle to improve.”

Laufenberg most enjoys teaching vinyasa yoga as a class, but working one-onone with clients is her favorite.

“I might teach them an exercise, but oftentimes what they learn is the mind-body connection that they carry through into their daily world,” she said. “For instance, we might address back or neck pain and work on how to fix that with posture training and other exercises. Those are the most rewarding to me, to have my clients out taking the information that I try to share with them and apply it to their daily life.”

Balance Fitness is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 5, in Wellington. For more information, visit www.gobalancefitness.com, call (561) 812-2647 or email lynette@gobalancefitness.com.

Clients practice balance and stretching techniques.

GREAT BREWS AND DELICIOUS MEALS

World Of Beer Bar & Kitchen Returns With A Reframed Concept

That Pairs Hundreds Of Beer Choices With An Elevated Menu

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MELANIE KOPACZ

It’s a whole new world inside the reframed World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, now open in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center. WOB invites beer lovers and beyond to have a cold one (or two), along with a delicious beer-paired meal and some interactive fun.

The highly anticipated return of this popular hangout, after closing its previous Palm Beach County locations, hit record-breaking sales at the new hotspot, drawing in hundreds of people to its February grand opening, welcoming back many longtime customers.

“About 10:30 a.m. we had a line about a half-mile long, and it just kept going from there,” said Regional Manager Holly Mauser, who started as a server 11 years ago. “We formerly had locations in West Palm Beach and Wellington, so we knew coming here, we’d have regulars from both, and the showing was above our expectations.”

Previously, WOB did not serve food, but the reimagined concept brings with it a laid-back, but elevated experience, including a full menu with hand-picked recipes that pair well with the hundreds of beers on offer.

“We look for the best craft beers,” Mauser said. “We have a dedicated project manager who works every week with the distributors who order beer, talks to reps, tries samples and then decides exactly what we are going to put on draft and what we’ll put in our cooler.”

WOB is ready to serve up a variety of more than 300 ice cold brews, in addition to more than 40 beers on tap, which are poured to perfection from a rotating selection. Coolers are separated geographically from areas across the United States and around the world. The selection also features specialty kegs and seasonal beers.

“In the winter, stouts; summer, light-

er brews,” Mauser explained. “We definitely cater to the season and what customers in the area want. We also work with a lot of local breweries.”

Locally, that includes Royal Palm Brewing Company, Matthews Brewing Company in Lake Worth, Steam Horse Brewing in West Palm Beach and others. You’ll also find a full bar of spirits and wine.

The design is warm and inviting with upscale décor, including an eye-catching antler chandelier in the center of a massive dining room that seats close to 300. The sunny “Florida room” is welcoming with both table seating, or a corner with comfy couches, in a relaxing area with plenty of TVs in every direction.

“We’re very elevated,” Mauser said. “A good mix of casual but upscale, and I think our customers feel that when they come in. The team is meticulous, and so is the service.”

(Left) 40 taps of rotating craft beer line the back of the bar. (Top, left to right) The Cali Bowl is loaded with your choice of protein stacked atop colorful veggies, paired with Schneider Weisse Helle Weisse; the giant German Pretzel is soft inside and crispy outside, paired with Kona Longboard; the Mac Bite Burger features fresh Angus beef topped with WOB’s award-winning fried pepper jack mac and cheese patty, crisp applewood bacon, lettuce and sriracha aioli; a cold pint of WOB’s own Secret Llama IPA; the Steak Frites includes a marinated and grilled flat-iron steak, served with broccoli and fries, paired with a St. Bernardus Abt 12; guests are welcome to build their own beer flights; and the WOB Chicken Wings are freshly glazed with one of many flavor styles to choose from.

Stay and try a flight of beers. Build your own from local brews, or order a flight of WOB’s proprietary Secret Llama beers.

Long known for its beer selection, WOB now has a full kitchen. Shareables come in large servings, including the popular giant German Pretzel. It’s baked

soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, salted and served with house-made, stone-ground mustard. Add amber ale beer cheese for a few extra bucks. It goes well with a Kona Longboard brew.

The WOB Chicken Wings are perfectly glazed and served with celery and a choice of house-made blue cheese or

ranch. It pairs great with a glass of the Secret Llama IPA. Other appetizers include the Loaded Taters with amber ale beer cheese and topped with jalapeños, applewood smoked bacon, scallions and sour cream.

Moving on to meals, Mondays are BYO, build your own burger, all day for $6.95, made from fresh Angus beef and plenty of toppings to choose from. The Mac Bite Burger is a must try. It’s made with fresh Angus beef topped with WOB’s award-winning fried pepper jack mac and cheese patty, crisp applewood bacon and lettuce, and finished with sriracha aioli. It pairs well with a pint of New Belgium Fat Tire.

The Steak Frites make for a rich and hearty meal of marinated flat-iron steak that is grilled and thinly sliced, then topped with a dollop of garlic butter, served with broccoli, fries and garlic ai-

One of two Topgolf Swing Suites with seating and service while you play golf, football, hockey and more.

oli. It pairs well with the St. Bernardus Abt 12. For lighter fare, the Cali Bowl is a great choice, stacked over jasmine rice or spring greens, with grape tomatoes, shredded carrots and cucumbers, drizzled with Sriracha-lime aioli and topped with fresh avocado, toasted sesame seeds and scallions with several protein options. It goes well with a glass of Schneider Weisse Helle Weisse.

Each menu item has a suggested beer for pairing, and the servers are happy to make recommendations.

Work off some of those calories and have fun in one of two Topgolf Swing Suites — an immersive, virtual, social experience offering guests a comfy lounge to enjoy food and beverage service while playing golf, hockey, football and more. Prices vary by time of day, and reservations can be made online.

“We cater to families, large parties,

business meetings, everyone,” Mauser said. “Our patio is pet friendly — we even have a pup menu.”

Whether it’s exploring the massive selection of beers, taking in a great meal or having some interactive fun, there’s something for everyone at WOB, which is open Monday through Thursday, 11

a.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

World of Beer Bar & Kitchen is located at 11121 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 8342430. Visit www.worldofbeer.com for beer selections, the food menu and rewards.

One of the WOB “Stars” serving up a flight of craft beer. Guests are welcome to build their own!

Along with three bedrooms, the stairs lead to a loft area — a great place to relax. The space also opens up to a balcony that overlooks the backyard.

The primary bedroom has a luxurious bath with dual sinks, a separate shower and tub. There is also a built-in safe and security cameras on every side of the exterior.

The exterior of the property has architectural landscaping with olive trees, privacy hedges, LED landscape lighting, upgraded drainage and automatic irrigation.

A soaring two-story ceiling, stunning natural lighting, an electric fireplace and glass doors that fully open to the backyard are just some of the great room’s features.

The custom office area is equipped with smart audio/ video equipment, making it a great space for virtual meetings.

Besides built-in JennAir appliances, custom stone countertops and a 48-inch Wolf gas range, the kitchen also features a walk-in pantry and integrated LED lighting.

LUXURY, PRIVACY & TRANQUILITY

This Magnificent Home Is Positioned On A Premier Lot With A Breathtaking View Of Palm Beach Polo & Country Club

Set in the Blue Cypress neighborhood of the Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, this two-story, four-bedroom home offers luxury, privacy and tranquility. Also featuring four and a half bathrooms, the home includes extensive upgrades, an office, a loft area and an outdoor living space all designed to pe rfection. Beautiful, immaculate furnishings are throughout. The spectacular home is offered turnkey with all the high-end features and furnishings available. The first floor boasts an open floor plan that allows for seamless living throughout the kitchen, dining room, great room and the outdoor living space. The primary suite is outfitted with dual walk-in closets that are expertly designed and have integrated LED lighting. A luxurious bathroom with dual sinks and a separate shower and bathtub, as well as sliding glass doors that open out to the covered lanai, round out a serene and sophisticated space. A loft area also opens up to a balcony that overlooks the backyard with its stunning lake and golf course views. Security and safety features on the property include an ADT security system, all impact windows and doors, and a whole-home automatic generator system with an upgraded 1,000 gallon, in-ground propane tank. The backyard is the true show-stopper — a tranquil and beautiful space that you’ll want to spend most of your time in.

PHOTOS COURTESY MADISON FROST/ENGLE & VÖLKERS

Left: This lushly landscaped four-bedroom, two-story home totals 5,567 square feet of living space. Below: With more than 2, 000 square feet, the enlarged patio is laid out with custom travertine pavers and a large outdoor kitchen featuring custom John Mitchell stainless-steel cabinetry, a propane grill, a griddle table, a side burner, a pizza oven, a sink with an InSinkErator, outdoor refrigerator and ice fridge. Right: Realtor Madison Frost.

ENGEL & VÖLKERS Wellington

Carr Sollak Realty LLC

10620 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 40 Wellington, FL 33414

Mobile: (561) 716-3967

Phone: (561) 791-2220

Fax: (561) 791-2221

E-mail: madison.frost@evrealestate.com

Madison Frost has been a South Florida resident for more than 20 years. She graduated from Lynn University summa cum laude, where she earned a master’s degree in business, specializing in financial valuation and investment. Since 2012, Frost has shared her passion for horses in the heart of Wellington. With her family strongly involved in real estate development, Frost has had the opportunity to learn top skills, resulting in her great success and extensive experience in the real estate field. She is known best for her dependable service, unsurpassed integrity and intentness.

Frost is determined to support and provide her clients with the finest luxury real estate, offering an exclusive, white-glove service to each individual. She shares her loyalty by creating strong, lasting relationships, understanding her clients’ crucial needs and wants, and making impressions that last a lifetime. Owning her own horses, Frost has a complete understanding of the functionality and crucial operational needs of a horse farm, allowing her to provide great insight and direction when searching for a home for horses. “I view myself as the complete bridge between my clients and their new, state-of-the-art asset, their home,” said Frost, who brings a customer-first approach and will always go above and beyond to give clients a seamless experience.

www.pbaquatics.com

Madison Frost Realtor

Palm Beach Polo & Country Club Property Presented By Madison Frost

Meet Madison Frost