Horse & Style Magazine June/July 2015

JUN/JUL

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Formidable

D E S T I N AT I O N M O N G O L I A : G E N G H I S K H A N L I V E S O N R I D E R S P OT L I G H T: P É N É LO P E L E P R E V O S T

2015

Chestnuts

At Sandhaven, we aim to achieve many different goals... winning is just a bonus.

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Success is “focusing the full

power of all you are on what you have a burning desire to achieve.

Wilfred Peterson

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12 10 THINGS: REED KESSLER

Almost three years after being the youngest equestrian on the Olympic stage, Reed Kessler has entered her twenties, has gone on her own in Europe and has a substantial following on social media.

Find out a bit more about her favorite things...

22 STYLE RIDER: RANSOME ROMBAUER

An equestrian on the rise, Ransome Rombauer is stylish in and out of the saddle. Acquiring accolades in the equitation and now also the jumper arena, this young rider is talented and has an eye for fashion.

26 FEATURE: SAUT HERMÈS

Oui, oui c’est magnifique! The gorgeous images from the Saut Hermès in Paris are worth a thousand words.

33 BEHIND THE SEAMS: OGILVY

Born from a desire to have happy horses, Jackie M. Ogilvy created her own line of innovative saddle pads. Although it is always horses first, the Ogilvy name is known for listening to its online audience. Marrying function with fashion, Ogilvy is forward thinking.

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39 RIDER SPOTLIGHT: PÉNÉLOPE LEPREVOST

It was easy to spot this fabulous French rider in Las Vegas at the World Cup Finals: she could win a medal final with her picture perfect position.

54 FORMIDABLE CHESTNUTS

Chestnuts on fire is one way to describe these four distinctly different yet similar equine superstars. They do share a common fiery color and apparently fiery personalities as well. Rich Fellers, Katie Laurie, McLain Ward and Lucy Davis talked with us about their formidable friends.

78 DESTINATION: MONGOLIA

Travel to east-central Asia with Dr. Peter Heidmann to a completely different culture. Also horse lovers, pony rides take on a whole new meaning during the Naadam Festival in Mongolia.

96 BEHIND THE LENS: ARDEN WARD UPTON Black and white and sepia set the tone for the amazing equines captured on Arden Ward Upton’s camera.

11 | FROM THE PUBLISHER

contents

It Takes a Village © 2015 HORSE&STYLE MAGAZINE

16 | OUT & ABOUT

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHEIF

FEI World Cup Finals

Sarah Appel

sarah@horseandstylemag.com

19 | PROFESSIONAL POP QUIZ

EDITOR

21 | BETWEEN THE LINES

Jackie McFarland

The Power of the Herd CREATIVE DIRECTOR

24 | OUT & ABOUT

Danielle Demers

Blenheim Spring Series ADVERTISING & SALES

30 | NEW PRODUCT ALERT

sarah@horseandstylemag.com

COPYEDITOR

44 | WHEN A VISION IS VICTORIOUS

Pam Maley

Introducing the New Paso Robles Horse Park

49 | FEATURE: RIDE BEDFORD Along for the RIDE with Courtney Caverzasi

62 | STYLE PROFILES Shades of Pink

66 | LIFE OF PESSOA

CONTRIBUTORS

Emily Pollard, Duncan McFarland, Winter Hoffman, Alexa Pessoa, Terri Roberson, Psy.D., Jeanette Gilbert-Gnaizda, Carrie Wicks, Ph.D., Allison Heidmann, Peter Heidmann, Erin Menut, Ashley Matchett Woods

Hail to the Owners

69 | BARN ENVY Tri-H Stables

84 | TREND REPORT

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy McCool, Alden Corrigan, Deb Dawson, EqSol, Christophe Tanière, Lindsay Brock / Jennifer Wood Media, Bernadette Durham, Elise Genest, Katherine Knighton

Off the Cuff

87 | VENDOR SPOTLIGHT Bizi Bee Boutique

90 | HORSE CORNER Finally Ours

92 | ASK DR. CARRIE

ON THE COVER: Illustrating fiery formidability, chestnut TB Kiwi Iron Mark, photo by McCool

94 | OUT & ABOUT Old Salem Farm

98 | BUSINESS LISTINGS 99 | OUT & ABOUT

Horse & Style Magazine is an equestrian lifestyle publication that is published bi-monthly and available at participating tack shops nationwide for $10, and while supplies last at large training centers and hunter jumper horse shows. The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is legally prohibited.

Copyright © 2015 Horse & Style Magazine LLC. TM

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Split Rock Jumping Tour

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Modify Watches' GiPro Jump

AR D WIN

Urban Unicorn

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www.AdiKissilevich.com

The New ‘Amal’ Women’s Show Coat

Equiline America | EquilineAmerica.com | Equiline.it | Info@EquilineAmerica.com

contributors

Jackie & Duncan McFarland

Danielle Demers

Pam Maley

Alexa Pessoa

A lifelong equestrian, Danielle Demers has always been inspired by horses. After graduating with a BFA in Painting, she worked to find a way to combine her passions for art, design, and the equestrian lifestyle.

As member of the EqSol Creative team since 2013, her interests have been melded together more perfectly than she could have imagined.

An avid former foxhunter, Pam knows well that special bond between horse and rider. With her husband she was co-owner of Dunford Farm, a thoroughbred farm in Lexington, Kentucky, where she was involved in every aspect of the horses’ lives. Her journey with horses continues as a member of the EqSol Team.

Alexa Pessoa is an American rider from Connecticut who married Olympic Gold Medalist and three time FEI Rolex World Cup Finals Champion Rodrigo Pessoa in 2009.

Her column for H&S charts her life as a mother to their daughter Sophia, as a rider, and as a wife to one of the world’s most high profile show jumpers.

Emily Pollard

Carrie Wicks, Ph.D.

Terri Roberson, Psy.D.

Emily Pollard is a freelance writer and life long equestrian based in the Bay Area. She has worked in the equestrian industry for the majority of her life, working as a groom, assistant trainer, barn manager, and everything in between. She trained and competed her horse, Skyler Ace, to the FEI level. She now carefully balances her horse life with her husband and soon to be two kids.

Dr. Carrie Wicks divides her time between her private sport psychology consulting and family therapy practice, traveling with athletes, and writing. She completed her doctorate in psychology while researching the mental practices of equestrian athletes. Her passions include horses, yoga, mountain biking, skiing, and time in nature with animals.

A licensed clinical psychologist, Terri Roberson combines her passion for horses with her clinical work in equine-assisted psychotherapy. She currently sits on the board of Giant Steps Therapeutic Equestrian Center.

Over 25 years on the show circuit has given her an eye for equestrian style and provides constant inspiration for her frequent contributions to H&S.

Allison Heidmann

Peter Heidmann

Winter Hoffman

Allison Heidmann is an accomplished equestrian currently working as a freelance trainer in Bozeman, Montana. Allison worked as a professional rider in Germany, Holland and Belgium for a decade before her New York roots called her back to the United States. Her desire to travel and see the world brought her to the spectacular views of Montana, a place she now calls home.

Peter Heidmann is a Board-Certified Specialist equine veterinarian.

He is the founder and owner of the Montana Equine Hospital (mtequine.com) and serves on the Board of Directors of BioRegions International (bioregions.org). Peter is Affiliated/Adjunct Faculty at Montana State University and Washington State University. His work has taken him through many parts of Asia.

With a background in filmmaking, fashion and contemporary art, Winter Hoffman brings a unique perspective to the equestrian world. A lifelong horsewoman, she helped her daughter, Zazou Hoffman, navigate her way to a successful Junior career, including the 2009 ASPCA Maclay Equitation Championship at the National Horse Show.

Jackie & Duncan McFarland own EqSol, a marketing solutions company. After spending a decade in Southern California, they moved to Lexington, Kentucky five years ago and are amazed how time flies. The EqSol Team has grown, now reaching from CA to ME, with new exciting projects knocking at the door.

Jeanette GilbertGnaizda Jeannette owns and operates Jaz Creek, Inc, in Petaluma, CA. Offering rehabilitation, retirement and breeding services, Jeanette is intimately familiar with the 24/7 equine lifestyle, but wouldn’t change it. The Jaz Creek breeding program is now in its 8th year and Jeanette is proudly competing and selling her young future stars.

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Menlo Circus Club | August 4-9, 2015 | Atherton, California

FROMthepublisher

It Takes a Village Whether it applies to raising our children or creating a business, we’ve all heard and said it before­—‘It takes a village’. In the beginning your ‘baby’ may need just you, but as they grow, which seems to happen so quickly, they need more than just you. The village begins to populate, as different people become a part of your ‘baby’s’ life. With new people will come new experiences, and it is those experiences and those relationships that will help to define the person that your baby, now a growing child, becomes. Having two small children, I am forever grateful for my family and the friends who have become my village.

Horse & Style magazine was also my ‘baby’, and it has followed the same pattern. It started with me alone, and as it grew, different people came into the mix to help strengthen and shape the outcome of where the magazine is today. Every contributor, photographer and intern has had an impact on ‘raising’ this publication. Once again, I am forever grateful to all those who have contributed to the growth of H&S in the past, the present, and the future.

New breath has sparked creativity and passion in H&S and I look forward to sharing this excitement with all of our readers and followers.

This promises to be a summer of opportunity and new beginnings.

Equestrians up and down the West Coast are enthusiastic about the recently opened Paso Robles Horse Park; read about owner Linda Starkman and how her dream became reality as she created a horse show from a competitor’s perspective (page 44).

After a whirlwind experience at the World Cup Finals, we walked away with a strong impression of the horsepower that came to Las Vegas. Of course the riders deserve recognition, and we continue to acknowledge their excellence, but we decided to focus on the fiery chestnuts who not only jumped their hearts out in Sin City but have proven their power across the world. We chose four, although we know there are many more. Read more in our cover story Formidable Chestnuts (page 54).

Speaking of impressive riders, Pénélope Leprovost caught our eye.

She not only looked beautiful while competing at 1.60m, she rode a ten-year-old stallion to second place in an extremely challenging competition. With a French interpreter, we were able to learn more about this talented and fashionable equestrian in this issue’s Rider Spotlight (page 39).

Spending time with Kristy Lake of Ogilvy at their World Cup Finals booth in Las Vegas.

We caught up with equestrian boutique owner Courtney Caverzasi of RIDE Bedford. This extraordinary woman combined her luxury brand experience with her love of horses, to create an innovative and fashion forward brick and mortar store (page 49).

Always growing and expanding our contacts, we learned from the social media powerhouse, Ogilvy, not only how to create a game changing product in the equestrian industry but develop a village of followers who don’t just like, but love their Ogilvy pads (page 33).

Taking us away to a completely different culture, and sharing the beauty and power of the experience, Dr. Peter Heidmann tells the stories and history of horses in Mongolia in our Destination Feature: Genghis Khan Lives On (page 78).

As our circle widens and our village grows, we welcome you to come along for the ride—in this issue and beyond. No longer just my ‘baby’, Horse & Style continues to grow in ways I never thought possible.

june/july ·

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10things

10 things you might not know about...

by Jackie McFarland

Reed

Kessler

The seventeen years before Reed Kessler became the youngest rider to qualify for the 2012 Olympics were filled with horses. Her story began similarly to many girls with equestrian parents; she was sitting on her first pony, Shasha, at six months old. Teri and Murray Kessler were and still are active amateur riders. Their then-trainer, Katie Monahan Prudent, is Reed’s godmother.

Reed quickly moved on from ponies to a short but successful stint in the hunter and equitation arenas. By age fourteen she was winning consistently in the High Junior jumper division. The next year Reed was competing, placing and winning in grand prix classes, the highest level she could compete at for her age. As soon as she turned eighteen, the young rider continued to impress at the international level.

After gaining a wealth of knowledge from several top trainers, most recently Marcus Ehning, Reed is now, at 20 years old, on her own. With a recent move to her own facility in Guttecoven, The Netherlands, and the family stables in Lexington, Kentucky, she is poised to represent in both Europe and the United States for several more Olympics.

1. Reed found Cylana with Katie Prudent. Under Reed’s riding, Cylana went from a reasonable 1.40m rotund mare to a formidable 1.60m chestnut powerhouse in one year!

2. She’s

only ridden Western once, barrel racing at the Washington International Horse Show. “That was fun!”

3. Her favorite color is red (not blue)!

4. Her favorite movie is Thank You For Not Smoking.

5. She would love to meet Emma Watson (she played the role of Hermione

in Harry Potter). Reed says, “I think she is a really great role model for young girls. She doesn't seem to have lost track of who she is and what's important to her despite her immense fame.”

6. Favorite Book: The Alchemist by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho 7. Favorite Food: chocolate 8. Favorite Song: "Wicked Games" by Parra for Cuva featured in Ministry of Sound - The Weekender

9. Reed has over 79,000 Facebook likes and 25,000 Twitter followers

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The first American show jumper to be sponsored by Kingsland, at the LA Masters last fall the autograph line at the KL booth had to be cut off so Reed wouldn’t miss her class!

Photo courtesy of Kingsland

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Menlo Charity Horse Show Benefiting the...

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OUT&about

FEI WORLD CUP FINALS – LA S VEGA S, NEVADA

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1. And the crowd goes wild… Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro celebrate their victory 2. McLain Ward and Rothchild in top form 3. Big smiles from Ann and Vinton Karrasch 4. Only in Las Vegas... 5. Young yet fiercely competitive, Bertram Allen on Molly Malone 6. The Good ’n’ Broke Limo, a bit of a twist on horsepower! 7. Flexible looking good on warm-up day 8. Even after several days of intense competition, Guerdat has no trouble lifting the World Cup trophy 9. Beezie Madden helps draw the order of go

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Photos © McCool

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Photo credit : Elise Genest

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10. Not quite sitting down on the job! Opening ceremony acrobatics 11. Great expression from Albfuehren’s Paille while the national anthem of Switzerland plays 12. Lucy Davis shows off her reining cow horse skills

ogilvyequestrian.com

HUNTERS

JUMPERS

EQUITATION

PONIES

Congratulates Lauren Aubert on a Great 2015 Thermal Performance Best Pony Rider WEEK 5

Lakeview Pickpocket

Sportster

Champion Medium Schooling Pony Hunters

Champion Medium Pony Hunters

Champion Medium Schooling Pony Hunters

Champion Medium Pony Hunters

WEEK 5 WEEK 6

WEEK 5

2ND HALF CIRCUIT AWARDS

Reserve Champion Medium Schooling & Pony Hunters 2ND HALF CIRCUIT AWARDS

Successful riders. Happy horses.

Beverly Jovais - Trainer (415) 297-4261 - Shannon Beck, Asst. Trainer

Petaluma, CA - www.ChestnutHillCA.com photos ŠESI Photography

PROpopquiz THIS MONTH’S QUESTION: How do you build a relationship with a new horse?

"The first thing that comes to mind is time. I do different things with the horse like walking, flatting, and trying different bridles. I experiment. The process varies, because each horse is an individual.

I ask the horse questions like, “Do you want to go with feel? What position works best for you?” I am a believer in changing the position with the horse who will tell me where to sit. Some trainers want the horse to go their way. But I want them to tell me how to ride them and adapt to their style, not for them to adapt to mine."

Dick Widger (aka Widg), Trainer, Waterford Farm, Carmel Valley, CA

"To really know someone you have to spend time with him or her and come to understand the person’s nuances. Horses are simple and truthful. As long as you are able to read that truth and have empathy, you will get to know them. It is similar to being a good parent as horses are a bit child-like by nature.

So, I spend time with each horse in many situations, not just in the saddle. I get to know the individual as well as their preferences and confidence level currently and throughout their life. I work closely with the groom to get to know as much about the horse from the ground up as I can."

Raymond Texel, Trainer, Alder Lane Farm, Cotati, CA

"When building a relationship with a horse, I focus on time, patience, and trust. It takes a year to build this relationship. Not only do we have to learn about the horse, but the horse also has to figure us out.

Every issue, a new question will be answered by hunter/ jumper professionals.

Have a question you want answered? Send it to sarah@horseandstylemag.com

Even with a grand prix horse, I begin with smaller divisions in the show ring and build the horse up stepby-step. I also apply this to clients. I make them start out small and gradually move up. I like my clients to get a couple time faults at first, to go and school, to go all around the ring, and to figure things out with the horse. When they reach the height they want to be competing at, they can become competitive.

This approach builds patience and fosters trust.

Taking the time to make your horse and yourself comfortable will lead to a great relationship based on established trust. Your horse will be likely to do anything for you, or at least try. I also encourage lots of interaction on the ground, including grooming—it’s important to learn the horse from the ground up."

Danielle van der Werf, Stal VDW, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada

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BETWEENthelines

by Erin Menut

The Power of the Herd Linda Kohanov New World Library | 464 pages Amazon - $19.95

Many of our readers will be familiar with Linda Kohanov from her ground-breaking first book, The Tao of Equus, in which she explores the frontiers of horse/human communication, giving us the science and the history behind the magical bond between man and the horse.

She spells out the reasons why so many of us feel more creative and clear, more intuitive and heart-centered, when we are around these magnificent creatures.

In her compelling new book, The Power of the Herd, Kohanov explores what horses can teach us about non-predatory power, explaining why this form of leadership is so crucial for the future of humankind. The qualities most of us associate with ‘power,’ she points out, are really just the dark side of predatory dominance: intimidation, self-centeredness and greed. With her characteristic wit and engaging storytelling, backed by extensive research and hard scientific fact, Kohanov offers us another way. By taking a look at some of history’s most influential leaders, including Buddha, Jesus, and George Washington, she demonstrates that these powerful leaders derive much of their brilliance from the horse-sense common to pastoral cultures, and from their masterful and compassionate horsemanship.

The second half of this hefty tome is devoted to a set of guiding principles derived from horse wisdom. Here, Kohanov offers humorous anecdotes and candid examples, many drawn from her own experience, to show us how to replace what she calls the ‘stone-age power tools’ that have caused so much suffering in the past, with the ‘power of the herd.’ This, she believes, can help us improve our personal relationships, resolve issues with colleagues at work, and develop our capacity for thoughtful leadership in our own lives.

If there is a flaw in The Power of the Herd, it is the length of the volume. A visionary leader and passionate teacher, Kohanov simply has much to say. Even so, with its relevant message, insightful stories, and practical advice, The Power of the Herd is sure to be a go-to guide for years to come.

HUNTINGTON BEACH SURF CLASSIC JULY 1–4 HUNTINGTON BEACH SUMMER CLASSIC AUGUST 6–9

STYLErider

by Pam Maley

Ransome

Rombauer Taking the horse show scene by storm at age fourteen, young Californian Ransome Rombauer was the CPHA Medal Finals 14-and-Under Champion, and one of the youngest riders ever to earn the USEF Bronze Medal.

Now finishing her sophomore year at Sonoma Academy, she has dedicated her talent to bringing home the blues for her school.

As Captain of the Equestrian Team, Ransome recently joined a select group of riders who have captured the IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association) “Triple Crown”. Unruffled by the heat and humidity in Wellington, Florida, she won the IEA Varsity Open Equitation on the Flat Championship, the Varsity Open Equitation Championship (jumping and flat), as well as the 2015 IEA Nationals High Point Rider.

While making a name for herself in the equestrian world, she is doing the same in the world of fashion, developing a style clearly her own. At fifteen she turned heads in Gucci at the Giant Steps Charity Classic in Sonoma, and she continues on that path in the realm of chic equestriennes.

Horse & Style had an opportunity to talk with Ransome about her riding and non-riding style, her goals for the future, and her heartfelt recognition of those who have influenced her riding career.

Horse & Style: Describe your riding (apparel) style: Ransome Rombauer: I would describe my riding apparel style as classic with a clean and modern edge. Fit, quality, and detail are important to me.

H&S: What is your head-to-toe riding outfit?

RR: GPA Speed Air Helmet, new favorite show shirt by

Tredstep (instead of the normal two snaps at the collar, it has three snaps so that there isn’t any gapping or pulling), Winston hunt coats (I love the fabrics and the seaming—very flattering), Tailored Sportsman Trophy Hunter breeches (tan), Winston breeches (white), Hermes ‘H’ belt in Epsom Khaki leather, Le Mundial custom high boots.

H&S: Do you wear anything for good luck?

RR: A few years ago, my grandfather ‘Grumpy’ gave me a very

simple and tiny necklace that consists of a thin black leather thong, a tiny seed pearl, and a silver disc stamped with ‘Protect

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Ransome.’ I wear this 24/7 and I believe it has served me well. A few crashes and burns; but no broken bones or major injuries!

H&S: What are your favorite equestrian brands?

RR: I love Cavaleria Toscana for before and after competition. Monica

from Equ Lifestyle always has the latest and greatest collections. I also love the Winston brand for hunt coats. Renee from LA Saddlery has an amazing selection with interesting fabric combinations. I particularly like the hunt coats with contrasting piping and elbow patches; but my go-to Winston coat is solid navy.

H&S: How would you describe your non-horse show style?

RR: I am a fairly conservative and classic dresser. I love texture,

line, and silhouette. I could be the J. Crew poster child. I discovered a new store (new to me) while we were in Berlin for Christmas— COS (Community of Style). It’s really big in Europe but starting to open stores here in the U.S. The COS look is all about textures and silhouettes. I love it. I also really love shoes. Thankfully, my Mom and I wear the same size, so I always pinch her Gucci, Prada, and Tod’s loafers, oxfords, and sandals.

H&S: How do you handle high-pressure situations, such as the final round at the 2013 NAJYRC, or entering the arena to jump off in a grand prix?

RR: Well, I’m probably not the best person to answer that question!

I did win the CPHA 14-and-Under Equitation Medal Final in 2013, but since then I have been pretty good at having amazing rounds except for one major and monumental mistake. It drives my trainers (Daniel Ighani and Karen Healey) crazy! Last year was the worst during USET Talent Search Finals. I won the Flat Phase, came in second in the Jumping Phase, but managed to go ‘off course’ during the Gymnastic Phase, and did not receive a score. That was probably the most frustrating and disappointing experience in my life. I’m working on managing my nerves for this year; let’s hope it works!.

H&S: What are your riding goals?

RR: I really hope to get recruited to ride for a Division 1 College

Equestrian Team. I’m a sophomore at Sonoma Academy now, so I still have a little more time before I make any definitive plans. Meanwhile, I’d like to achieve twenty wins in the USET Talent Search and get the Gold Medal before I go off to college. I’m just now really getting into the jumpers. Even though I’m a little late to the party, I’m trying to make the USEF Zone 10 Junior/Young Rider Team. It’s very competitive this year, so I know it’s a tall order, but I’m going for it. I also just got accepted to the USHJA EAP (Emerging Athletes Program) and I hope to make it to the EAP Nationals this year.

H&S: Do you want to be a professional rider?

RR: I definitely want to make riding and horses my career. I’m very

interested in animal and equine science, and equine and agricultural management. I plan to study this in college while hopefully competing with a college team.

H&S: Who has been the most influential in your riding career?

RR: Even though I have ridden with a number of trainers over the years, I would have to say that Daniel Ighani has had the most influence and impact on my riding. I have been riding with him for two and a half years now. Karen Healey has been a co-trainer for over a year and Karen works with me in the equitation ring when I show in Southern California and Medal Finals.

When I think back to when I moved to Daniel’s, I was feeling a bit lost and unsure of myself, and really didn’t know where I was with my riding. At the time, Daniel and his wife Susan had recently started their business, Ighani Sporthorses, six months prior to my move to their barn at Toyon Farm in Napa. Over the past couple of years he and I have grown together.

Daniel’s background was primarily in the jumpers and as it turned out, that was exactly what I needed. Working with him in the jumper ring has given me so much more confidence and has made me a more technical rider.

Both Daniel and Karen share a classical training style that has been very effective and influential in my riding. It also helps that Daniel and I get along very well and genuinely enjoy each other’s company. I have come a long way in the past two and a half years and I am looking forward to achieving my goals with renewed confidence.

H&S: What is the one thing you never go in the ring without?

RR: I never go into the ring without my ‘Protect Ransome’ necklace, my Hermes ‘H’ belt, and a Winston hunt coat.

Opposite: Ransome in her signature California beanie with one of her rescue mini’s, Miu Miu. Ransome is wearing Tailored Sportsman breeches, a Tredstep show shirt, La Mundial tall boots and a Winston jacket; Photo © Alden Corrigan

Above: Ransome competes in the Big Equitation and is vying for a spot at this year’s NAYJRC; Photo © Flying Horse Photography june/july ·

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OUT&about

BLENHEIM SPRING SERIES - SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA

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1. West Coast pony rider extraordinaire Augusta Iwasaki 2. Harry Potter is officially the cutest black bunny ever 3.

Piggyback is almost as good as horseback riding! 4. Close-up on a Leadline star 5. Bonding 6. Nick Haness was all smiles when he won the first International Hunter Derby of the spring season on Sachi Kawabata-Porto's Countdown 7. Karl Cook looking dapper walking the course 8. Serenity Phillips and friends with golden pups Macie and Maverick 9.

Cartwheeling for joy! 10. Robert and Hillary Ridland attend Scarlett's Jumper Derby

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Photos 漏 McCool (1,3,4,5,6,8,9), Alden Corrigan (2,7,10)

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feature

photos by Giampaolo Vimercati

Saut Hermès in the way of pictures

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1 . Axel Dumas, President of Hermes and Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris; 2. & 7. Warming up at Au Grand Palais; 3. Prix de la Ville de Paris CSI 5*; 4. Chrisitan Ahlmann and Epleaser Van T Heike; 5. Romain Duguet and Quorida de Treho; 6. Emma Tallberg and Dolce Vita Crosby; This Page: Angelique Rüsen and Chikkimikki & Vanessa Borgmann and Come To Win 51 competing in Les Talents Hermès CSIU25-A – Éprevue N *8, photo by Frédéric Chéhu

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EQUESTRIAN INSPIRED JOURNEY shared passion shared dreams shared goals shared style

We wish a great show season to all the equestrian athletes, trainers & grooms. w w w. j u l i e b r o w n i n g b o v a . c o m

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by Ashley Matchett Woods Through the company’s active presence on social media, the ‘ModiFamily’ votes on potential designs, learns about new products, and even provides a medium for artists to show off their work, plus gain their own following. ‘Bar Fight,’ for example, was an early black-and-blue design and exemplifies the company’s playful nature.

EQUESTRIAN SPORT MEETS MODIFY Modify timepieces are simply that: they tell time. They come in two face sizes and have interchangeable straps and sliders in a rainbow of colors. Their proprietary design is splash-proof so that you can go for a dance in the rain while ‘showing your colors.’

But their real product is a user experience of collaboration and belonging, making the customer feel part of the company. The company is set up to do one watch at a time, or enough for a barn, a team, or an entire fan base. They consult for free on designs and make them as ordered.

The Equestrians’ Concierge at Sonoma Horse Park is the only retail partner for the GiPro Jump; all other sales go through the website at modifywatches.com/ collections/gipro.

SEEKS TO INSPIRE HORSE LOVERS Some companies claim to be customer-centric, but since its inception in 2010, Modify Watches has truly been customer-driven. Their fans have helped build the company, participating in product development by voting on new designs, partnering in philanthropic programs, and making their own creations one watch at a time. While big-name sports teams have had official Modify watches for several years, the company is now entering the equestrian arena with the launch of its first watch for horse lovers, the GiPro Jump.

Modify collaborated with professional show jumper Giana Roberge to design the new offering, which boasts their signature comfortable, sporty design. Complete with colorful swap-out bands and sliders, the GiPro Jump features a modern jumping horse graphic on the pop-out face.

With well over a thousand combinations possible, the Jump will inspire horse lovers to ‘wear it their way’ and to start creating Mods for barns, businesses, and their own horses. “We want you ‘show your colors’ and those can change every day, so we created interchangeability,” says CEO Aaron Schwartz.

“Having the customers lead our design is fun; and it’s easier—much easier—to ask them what they want and then make it.”

From its inception, Modify has fostered a culture of customization and customer service. The result is hundreds of designs ranging from Major League Baseball logos to Tetris, invented, developed, and furthered by Modify’s loyal customer community.

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Modify designs and hand-assembles in San Francisco, and while the company has a vast reach, it comprises only fifteen team members, including original founders CEO Aaron Schwartz and Creative Director Ashil Parag. Every shipment contains a hand-written note that includes the personal cellphone of one of the team members, telling the recipient that “we want our customers to know that there are real people behind their Mod. Tell us what you like and what you don’t.”

Modify will even get involved with charitable causes dear to the hearts of their fans.

Through the guidance of the ModiFamily, they have contributed to over twenty worthy organizations, three of whom have their own custom designs.

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BEHINDtheseams

by Emily Pollard

PAIRING PERFORMANCE TECHNOLOGY WITH INNOVATIVE STYLE

S

pend five minutes talking with anyone from the Ogilvy team about the brand’s guiding inspiration, and it quickly becomes clear that the horse’s wellbeing is priority number one. By creating an innovative way to marry comfort and style together in saddle pads that support horse welfare, increase performance and reflect a rider’s personal style, Ogilvy Equestrian founder and designer Jackie M. Ogilvy, with the help of her husband Jack as business manager, has grown from a small Canadian startup to an international success and online sensation.

I wanted to create nothing less than the ideal saddle pad that would also last a long time and could be recyclable and environmentally friendly.

There was no point in making a saddle pad just to make another saddle pad, it had to be completely rethought.

As most of us who are reading this, Jackie is horsecrazy. She spent her childhood around horses, riding and competing before taking a short hiatus during her university years. Returning to riding, Ogilvy was increasingly frustrated with the pressure points, rubbing and slipping caused by traditional saddle pads and realized the old school method of fitting a saddle with a banjo of foam desperately needed updating. Since college she had the experience of creating her own jewelry company as well as several years working in IT project management,

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so this, coupled with her passion for the happiness of her horses, led Jackie to start Ogilvy Equestrian in 2008.

FINDING FUNCTION Jackie set out with a clear goal: “I wanted to create nothing less than the ideal saddle pad that would last a long time and be recyclable and environmentally friendly. There was no point in making a saddle pad just to make another saddle pad; it had to be completely rethought.” A self-taught seamstress, she began by taking apart and reconstructing existing saddle pads to see what could be done to make them fit better.

With the goal of improving the technology of the materials, she started working with memory foam, which has become associated with the Ogilvy brand.

The memory foam affords a greater level of padding and shock absorption that makes for a smoother ride for both horse and rider. Adding suede to the top of the pad anchors the pad to the saddle to prevent slipping. Placing a friction-free layer of fleece on the bottom secures the half pad to the saddle pad but still allows for a little movement, providing back and shoulder freedom for the horse. These transformations resulted in a pad that provides comfort, as well as clear communication between horse and rider.

Ogilvy is excited to be growing up with this generation of young riders and uses its social media strength to encourage them to ride the best they can on the horse they have and to be proud and have fun while doing it.

AN EVOLVING STYLE After Jackie conquered the technical issues, she was able to entertain the fun part: color, texture and style. In the beginning, Ogilvy’s style branding consisted mainly of the contoured shape and the Scottish tartan. But soon she began experimenting with personalization possibilities using different color fabrics, piping and embroidery, always finishing with the recognizable nickel button with the Ogilvy logo. The outcome was just what Jackie had envisioned: a product that is classic, classy, colorful, and can be personalized, while maintaining a traditional look.

To keep things fresh, new piping colors are introduced each season based on colors that are trending and the requests of customers. But quality is ultimately the first priority,

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regardless of popularity. All new fabrics and materials must meet Ogilvy’s high durability and performance standards.

ON POINT WITH THE ONLINE MARKET After a bit of a bit of a slow start, with word-of-mouth the main marketing tool, the brand began picking up notoriety after being seen under the saddles of a few key riders (Jill Henselwood, Reed Kessler, Philippe Lejeune and Ian Millar, to name a few). But the real explosion came under the tutelage of team member Kristina Lake, who had had great success promoting her own tack shop on social media. Using a similar platform, she has helped Ogilvy amass over 50,000 Instagram followers, 18,000 likes on Facebook, and a thriving website. Kristy feels that social media offers the sport, one that can seem exclusive and elitist, an avenue for all riders to feel appreciated and connected.

Social media has played a huge role in engaging the younger riding demographic, which Ogilvy found has remarkable buying power.

Young riders especially love the interactive platform. They can request color combinations, make style recommendations, and ask for embroidery examples; and Ogilvy will showcase the results online. Ogilvy loves creating a vibe of inclusion by asking young fans to reach out with pictures and videos, and then giving them their ‘15 minutes of fame.’

Admittedly, younger consumers are drawn to Ogilvy by the color and customization options, but Ogilvy loves having the opportunity to teach them the ‘why’ behind the brand and to explain exactly how the half pads and saddle pads can benefit their horses and their riding performance. Ogilvy is excited to be growing up with this generation of young riders and uses its social media strength to encourage them to ride their best on the horse they have, and to be proud and have fun while doing it.

THE FUTURE FOR OGILVY Not surprisingly, the young rider demographic is growing rapidly and branching out into other disciplines. At the 2015 World Cup in Las Vegas, Ogilvy sold out of pads that catered to a primarily dressage-focused group of shoppers. Going forward, they plan to enter other equestrian markets including Hunters, Eventers and Western riders. Even as production doubles again this year from last, Ogilvy remains a family company with a focus on quality.

All Ogilvy products are manufactured in Quebec under the close supervision of the team. Jackie promises that Ogilvy will continue to deliver what they have from the beginning: a high quality product with classy and traditional styling, whose technology performs to benefit the Olympic level rider but is affordable and just as beneficial for the amateur and junior rider.

Photos by Elise Genest and Katherine Knighton and courtsey of Ogilvy Equestrian.

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RIDERspotlight

Pénélope Leprevost Not from an equestrian family, and living in an apartment in Rouen, France, three-year-old Pénélope Leprevost went to the circus and absolutely adored the ponies. Already an animal lover, she started riding by age four and competing by age six. Shy and reserved as a child, horses brought her out of her shell.

When she turned eighteen, she chose horses over architecture school.

By the age of twenty she had turned professional. Her break into the international ranks came about five years later, when she earned third place in the French Championships in 2005 and then rode to the win the following year.

She’s been representing her home country of France in Nations Cups and in Championships consistently for just under a decade. Currently ranked 14th in the World, her recent accolades include 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Team Silver Medalist with Flora de

by Jackie McFarland photos by Amy McCool and Christophe Tanière

Mariposa and 2015 FEI LONGINES World Cup Finals Reserve Champion riding Vagabond de la Pomme.

Tall and slender, Leprevost looks lovely on a horse. And as illustrated by her victories on a variety of mounts, her talent is extraordinary.

Pénélope’s passion is shared with her daughter Eden, now 11-yearsold, whom she only gets to see between competitions. Knowing what it takes to be a top athlete in show jumping, Eden’s grandparents moved closer to help raise Eden. In her spare time, Pénélope works with a friend on her boutique, Penelope-Store.com, carrying items for both horse and rider.

Horse & Style sincerely thanks Anne-Marie Deschamps for her translation of our interview with Pénélope both from English to French and back again.

Horse & Style: Have you always loved horses?

Pénélope Leprevost: When I was 3, I loved animals but we lived in an apartment. One time, a circus came to town for a few days, and I fell in love with the pony. And, from then on, I’ve always been around horses!

H&S: What do you love most about horses?

PL: I love both to ride and train but, over all, what I prefer is the relationship with the horse, on their back, or walking alongside.

Pénélope and Vagabond de la Pomme performing in Las Vegas

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H&S: What do you love most about competition?

PL: While performing, what I do prefer is to feel how the relationship

barns; I rent one and some other riders rent the other. We share the work-areas. Everyone gets along very well!

H&S: Your most memorable win?

PL: Victories. I have a great memory of the last round at the CSIO in

H&S: Can you tell us about some of the horses you are competing on currently? Are they all owned by Haras de Clarbec?

PL: Most of my horses belong to the Megret family, owners of the Haras

between horse and rider comes together.

Rotterdam against McLain Ward. [This was a Nations Cup in 2009.

France and US jumped-off, Ward went first on Sapphire, clean and fast.

But Leprovost and Jubiliee d’Ouilly laid down a faster time for the win.]

And more recently, the Team Silver Medal in Caen last year, and, of course, the second place in the 2015 World Cup Finals in Vegas with Vagabond de la Pomme.

H&S: Who is your coach?

PL: I work alone every day. But I’m happy to have the knowledgeable

de Clarbec. I am very lucky that they trust me with their wonderful horses.

Vagabond de la Pomme [10 y.o. Belgian Sporthorse stallion] I’ve been working with Vagabond de la Pomme since he was seven. He’s been working up to this [World Cup Finals]. I believe he has now arrived to maturity. He has proven that we can count on him for the next championships.

Henri Prudent advise me. I have also worked with Michel Robert for many years, whom I like very much.

Tobago Chevrier [8 y.o. Selle Français stallion] A young stallion with a ton of potential that started with me a couple of months ago.

H&S: Can you tell us a bit about the farm you work out of?

PL: I rent a very nice stable, 15 km (9.3 miles) from Lisieux, (Sidenote

Sultane des Ibis [9 y.o. Selle Français mare] She is a competitive mare, and has come a long way in the last few months. She did well in Paris during the Saut Hermès and the Global Champion Tour in Anvers (Belgium).

from Anne-Marie: Lisieux is in Pays d’Auge, the best area for Horses in Calvados). It’s a gorgeous place and I quite like it. It’s a pleasure to have such a nice refuge between the competitions. There are two

Opposite: Pénélope and Eden share a passion: horses!

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Previous page: Goutal at her winter base in Wellington This page: Goutal and Nice De Prissey in competition at WEF Photos 漏Erin Gilmore

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Flora Mariposa [10 y.o. Belgian WB mare] I’ve worked with Flora de Mariposa since the end of 2012. She had a special training program after the WEG. She is a “star” and I have high hopes for her in the upcoming months.

Ratina la Rousserie [10 y.o. Selle Français mare] This mare never ceases to amaze us. She’s a difficult mare but she continues to improve and she has unlimited scope.

Nice Stephanie [11 y.o., Swedish WB mare] Nice Stephanie came to me a few months before Flora.

She is an emotional mare and I’m working hard to build a good connection. She’s actually been quite good and did well in Lummen this past week.

My Lord Carthago HN [15 y.o. Selle Français stallion] I rode him from age seven until he was fourteen. He is now retired and standing at stud.

H&S: You have your own online store—is style a passion?

PL: It’s a childhood friend of mine, Celine Leroux, who handles my brand and collections. We work together to make the clothes and to choose the things we will carry in the store that suit every rider.

When I’m not competing, I like to wear clothes that are both stylish and smart. My favorite brands are Zadig & Voltaire and Superdry.

H&S: When not competing, what is your favorite thing to do?

PL: I don’t have much spare time, but my other main interest is my daughter Eden.

H&S: How often do you see her?

PL: I do the best I can to see her often. It’s difficult

when you are on the road competing, because competitions are often from Wednesday or Thursday to Sunday, and almost every week. I prefer to arrive the day before because it allows me to ride and work with the horses in the place where we are performing.

Eden would come with me when she was younger but she’s now 11 and should have a ‘normal’ life, especially for her studies. I’m so lucky that my parents help and I also have a good relationship with Eden’s father. Whenever it’s possible, she comes with me on weekends and she’s with me at the beginning of each week.

So she has three houses. She has grown accustomed to this lifestyle. She is very easy going and a great daughter. I think that I’m the only one who suffers when I don’t see her every day.

H&S: What is your favorite thing to do together?

PL: Eden also loves horses, so we love to ride together!

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feature

by Winter Hoffman

when a vision is

Victorious INTRODUCING THE NEW PA S O R O B L E S H O R S E PA R K We can all relate to dreams that have been inspired by the horses we love. Linda Starkman, an avid supporter of show jumping, has developed a central place that encompasses her horse dreams. Her passion took her above and beyond owning a horse, building a barn, and participating in horse shows. Starkman chose to share her vision by building a gorgeous new venue for horses and horsemen to enjoy, the Paso Robles Horse Park.

HOW IT BEGA N Starkman first discovered her love for horses at age nine with pony rides and riding lessons at Griffith Park in Los Angeles. Her first visit to Paso Robles was with her grandparents when the Hearst Castle opened to the public with a stay in the historic Paso Robles Inn. As an adult, Starkman enjoyed being a nurse at Hoag Hospital and with the

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American Red Cross, and a mom to three kids in Newport Beach, near Los Angeles.

Later, her love for horses led to riding lessons for the whole family at Coto de Caza Equestrian Center in Orange County.

As an adult taking lessons with her kids, Starkman jumped her first jump and her equestrian passion evolved to another level.

JU M PING I N Clearing that first obstacle led Starkman to the show ring, where she and her horse, Castaway Teddy, competed in the Amateur Owner Hunter Division up and down the West Coast, earning Pacific Coast Horse Shows Association YearEnd Champion in 1978. She also followed her passion for galloping in open fields and fox-hunted for 12 years at meets on both coasts and overseas, as well as serving as President of the West Hills Hunt in Los Angeles.

Thirty years ago, Starkman purchased acreage in Paso Robles, California. “I had so many fond memories of this area from my childhood,” she says. “When the opportunity arose to purchase 160 acres set amongst the rolling hills, it was the perfect start to the place that I now call home.” The ranch evolved from a vacation getaway, to a facility that allowed her to breed and raise show jumpers, adding another seventy acres along the way. Two years ago, almost three decades after she bought the land, her rural getaway and private barn became her full-time home.

A VIS ION IS BOR N As time passed, Starkman’s dreams expanded. Her children and her grandchildren had also caught the equestrian bug.

As she spent more time at the ranch with her family, traveling many miles up and down the coast to countless horse shows,

Clockwise from top: 1. The facility offers plenty of places to ride. 2. Linda Starkman and her corgi Buddy. 3. Entrance to the park. 4. Park Manager Chet Voss (center) and sons Warren and Ben Voss (lt to rt). june/july 路

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Starkman began to wonder, “Why couldn’t we welcome the sport right here on the Central Coast?” And so her venue vision was born.

Reflecting on the initial inception of this idea she noted, “As I thought about the shows I had been to, my mind quickly wandered to what I would do if I could create a show from a competitor’s perspective.”

This vision of a horse show in Paso Robles grew to include a venue that featured larger stalls for the horses, iconic competition fields, and a cozy layout that eliminated the feeling of trekking miles between the barns and the show rings.

After years of looking at property all over the Central Coast, Linda heard about a 67-acre parcel just a couple miles outside of town, with easy access on and off of Highway 46. “Pulling onto the property for the first time, I knew that we had found it,” Starkman remembers. “As I looked around I could imagine all the pieces of the vision coming together.”

With extensive patience and perseverance, Starkman spent longs hours planning and collaborating with the list of agencies required to build a vision of this stature. Finally, in February of 2014, they broke ground and the Paso Robles Horse Park was born.

MAKING IT A LL W ORTHW HILE Bringing this vision to life required jumping into the deep-end of a completely new world for Starkman. There was a plethora of decisions

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to be made from whether to use Fescue or Bermuda grass on the large competition field, to ring sizes, to bathroom design, to manure disposal, and more. The original arenas she envisioned were adjusted, then readjusted again to find just the right mix to meet the competitors’ needs. Aside from all the equine decisions, Starkman also had to set aside enough space to provide a home to the indigenous San Joaquin kit fox.

“It was all worth it,” Starkman says. “Especially today as I look towards welcoming our first shows, I can see why every step along the way was worth it.” The Paso Robles Horse Park opened its gates to the show jumping community with its Kick Off Schooling Show on May 9th and 10th. Then through a partnership with West Palms Events, the first USEF-rated shows hit the grounds on May 20 – 24 and May 27 – 31, to be followed with two more in the fall, October 28 – November 1, and November 4 – 8, 2015. These four weeks of rated horse shows will christen the first year, as the vision of the Paso Robles Horse Park truly becomes a reality.

With her boundless energy and youthful countenance, Starkman’s can-do attitude has served her well. “Dreams that become vision, become reality,” Starkman said as she reflected on the process. “Many years ago I dreamed of a horse show centrally located in a town I love, Paso Robles.”

SACRAMENTO For those who get the chance to experience the newly minted facility in person, they can look over Fairway Field, home to both the main jumper and hunter rings, and see the attention to detail. The sand competition rings have top-of-the-line footing, and the permanent barns, which feature over 200 12x12-sized stalls with Dutch-doors for the horses to enjoy, are conveniently close to the competition area. The facility can also accommodate several hundred temporary stalls in a space extending out from the location of the permanent stalls. The entire facility has minimal asphalt and no curbs to ensure competitor and horse safety.

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The facility is framed by rolling hills and the quiet beauty of the surrounding area. What is unfolding as a dream come true for Starkman will soon be the same for hundreds and thousands of equestrians, equine enthusiasts and their families and friends.

Certainly the vision of this passionate and persistent horsewoman will be victorious for years so come.

Photos: All dressed-up and ready for competition, the Paso Robles Horse Park hosts two weeks of horse shows.

All photos courtesy of the Paso Robles Horse Park and West Palms Events

DAVLYN FARMS

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feature

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Along for the

RIDE

with Courtney

Caverzasi

WESTCHESTER’S DESTINATION FOR EQUESTRIAN, EQUINE & CANINE COUTURE The Year of the Horse would be an ideal time to open a truly unique boutique with an equestrian flair. We met an equestrian with an incredible retail background and an entrepreneurial spirit, Courtney Caverzasi, who left Hermès to create RIDE in June of last year.

Extensive renovations to the flagship space began in August, and the doors opened in September. Located in ‘horsey’ Westchester County, Caverzasi’s concept marries high-end boutique with high-end tack shop in Bedford, New York.

Horse & Style had an opportunity to talk with Courtney about her must-stop shop for equestrians and more.

Horse & Style: What is your background with horses?

Courtney Caverzasi: All animals fascinated me when I was a child, but most especially horses. I was always sketching them on my drawing pads and asking my parents for pony rides. Finally, at the age of twelve, my parents obliged with lessons. Over the years, I rode at a number of barns with various trainers in Rockland, Bergen and Westchester Counties, but got most of my professional training riding with Barbara Soley and Lisa Campi at Top of the Line in Chestnut Ridge, NY. I still ride today as much as I can. From my very first lesson, I knew horses would always be a part of my life.

Courtney Caversazi, owner and welcoming presence in the store. june/july ·

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Promoting Success Through Integrity, Hardwork, and Dedication

Now accepting new clients

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Lee Hughes 917.209.4168

Hunters Jumpers Equitation Ponies Sales Menlo Park, California

My parents always believed in being industriousness, so at the age of fourteen I was encouraged to get a job to support my horse habit. To me the next logical step was to work at a local tack shop in my hometown. Later when attending college at Fordham, I worked part time at Miller's Harness Company. In my second year, I made the decision to come back home and take a hiatus from college, resuming my role at the local tack shop in my hometown, this time as manager.

H&S: How did that establish your career?

CC: In two years I doubled their business and solicited Hermès as an

account. We sold more Hermès saddles in one year out of that tiny brick and mortar than Dover Saddlery (Hermès' largest wholesale account at that time) had the same year. That caught the attention of their U.S. Sales Manager, who asked me to interview for an Equestrian Specialist position at their flagship. At that time the 57th Street store was small, and the equestrian section even smaller, so I decided it was not the right fit and instead to take a job in Fashion Merchandising.

From 2000–2002, I worked for South Asia Group, the NY design office for South Asia Knitting Factory in Hong Kong, one of the largest and most reputable manufacturers in all of Asia, private labeling for clients like BCBG, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Express Brands, J. Crew, Paul Smith, and Rebecca Taylor, among others. I was responsible for managing accounts and overseeing every stage of the production process.

I learned so much during my time there, but ultimately felt a pull back to the equestrian world. I contacted my old Sales Manager at Hermès, and it turned out they were looking to fill the role of Equestrian Manager at their now larger US flagship on 62nd street. I eagerly accepted the position and set about making changes that grew the business 96% in the first four years. In my 12-year tenure, I earned several promotions at Hermès. One of my favorite parts of the job was identifying and recruiting talent for Hermès' partner rider program. I met some of the best people (and horses!) in my life at Hermès. In early 2014 I felt the need to explore new horizons and made the difficult decision to leave Hermès and work on creating my own vision, RIDE.

H&S: What is the inspiration behind the visual merchandising in the store?

CC: I have always had a strong eye for design. I like mixing traditional with modern, and a simple, pared down clean aesthetic. One of the most creative and fun parts of starting RIDE was the renovation.

Gutting the old space to designing the custom saddle rack and selecting each fixture that make RIDE what it is today.

H&S: What do you love most about owning your own store?

CC: The creative freedom to do what's in the best interest of my clients, and what's right for the business no matter what. It's a symbiotic relationship, they go hand in hand and each ensures the mutual success of the other.

View of the rear of the store, the tack shop section, with equine gear and the subtly beautiful horse mural on the back wall; Next Page: Views of the front of the store (except for the saddles), the apparel section, blending riding and non-riding gear, all brands tested and preferred by owner and employees. Note the murals on the dressing room doors. june/july ·

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I like mixing traditional with modern, and a simple, pared down clean aesthetic.

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H&S: How do you compete with online shopping, deal sites, large retailers?

CC: It's not my intention to compete with

them—they do what they do well, and to be quite honest, small brick and mortar retailers really can't afford to these days. Our business model is different. We focus our efforts on offering a unique assortment and unparalleled shopping experience not found elsewhere. In the interest of client service, we will always price match at our clients’ behest.

H&S: What brands are your favorites and why?

CC: I have a lot of favorites brands, all of

which are featured at RIDE, but the ones currently in my personal trunk are Antares, Back On Track, Blue Ribbon, the full line from Carr Day & Martin, Clac, Dubarry, Dy'on, Equiline, Hermès, Ogilvy, Samshield, Sarm Hippique and Waldhausen.

Each of our brands represents the best quality for the best respective price point, and all have been tested and used by both my staff and myself for years, so I know they are consistent and reliable.

H&S: What do you look for in the products/brands you carry at RIDE? CC: Great products that outperform others at the best price. The entire staff at RIDE rides and either currently own or used to own or have an extensive background in farm management, so you can rest assured that any product you see on our shelves has been in our own tack trunks for years. We are proud to feature the latest in technological innovations for our clients—this is a theme you can find across all products in our shop.

H&S: What are your plans for the future? Will we be seeing RIDE brick and mortar stores across the country?

CC: We are exploring areas of expansion, but it’s too early to share…

Find a chance to RIDE! Definitely worth a visit when in the area, RIDE is also continuing to expand their online presence.

RIDE IS LOCATED AT: 648 Old Post Rd, Bedford, NY 10506 ORDERS: 914.234.RIDE | ridesales@ridebedford.com SOCIAL:  facebook.com/ridebedford  instagram.com/ridebedford

Photo © McCool

ONthecover

by Jackie McFarland

FORMIDABLE

CHESTNUTS I had just returned from the 2015 FEI LONGINES World Cup Finals in Las Vegas when I began this journey of finding four chestnuts to write about for Horse & Style.

Of course it wasn’t difficult, as essentially all of the athletic equines at this world-class indoor event have stories worth telling, and more than four of them are chestnut in color.

So I picked four and look forward to picking more.

In an attempt at a working title, I came up with Calm, Cool and Collected Chestnuts on Fire to create a play on words with ‘Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire’. However upon interviewing Rich Fellers, McLain Ward, Katie Laurie and Lucy Davis, each had a good laugh when asked, "Would you call your horse calm, cool and collected?" The answer was categorically "NO."

Photo © Sophie James

So to forego that title seemed a clear choice, and the word ‘formidable’ came to mind. Defined as “inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable,” certainly seemed fitting. These four chestnuts are impressive, and have earned respect through powerful performances in intense settings.

Most show jumping fans know these horses in the ring, having watched them perform in person or televised from Olympics, World Equestrian Games and World Cup Finals. Through my interviews for Horse & Style I found

these horses to have distinct personalities and of course a common color bond, chestnut. Are they all hotheads? Is the red color part of the reason? Genetically that is not proven, but interesting to ponder.

Certainly we could all identify more fiery and famous chestnuts, and after this small step to a longer journey I believe this exploration could continue. Steve Guerdat’s mount for the World Cup Finals, Albufuerhen’s Paille, is one—at press time we were still working on the interview— as Guerdat went from Vegas to GCT Anvers to GCT Shanghai to CSIO La Baule. Another two come to mind as I write, Paulo Santana’s mighty mount, Taloubet and Coral Reef Ranch’s stallion Baloufino, piloted by Vinton Karrasch.

At press time three of the four fiery formidable chestnuts, Flexible, Rothchild, and Kiwi Iron Mark, are on their way to Spruce Meadows for some competition in Calgary, while Barron will be competing abroad.

Fiery, not calm; cool as in 'radical', and fiercely competitive, while as collected as possible, describes this foursome of equine athletes. Matched with riders willing to work with their unique quirks, these formidable chestnuts will continue to reach heights that impress us all.

Your formidable chestnut recommendations and thoughts are welcome.

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FLEXIBLE After thirteen years together, Flexible and Fellers share a long list of show jumping accolades, with a plethora of amazing stories along the way, including a 2012 FEI World Cup Champion title, the highest place earned by an American at the 2012 Olympics (8th) and 2012 USEF Horse of the Year. He recently won the Grand Prix of California and was second in the Del Mar National Grand Prix the week before. Plus the fiery chestnut has survived and surpassed two potentially career-ending injuries.

Fellers explained what makes Flexible unique.

“He has an innate understanding of the sport, that combined with his heart and desire make him a formidable competitor,” Fellers noted. “I know that he knows that he isn’t supposed to touch a jump.”

Illustrating how well these two athletes know each other, Fellers can feel the disappointment in Flexible when they have a rail. “When we pull up at the end of the course I can feel it in his body. He feels different underneath me, more enthusiastic underneath when we are clean, he’s a little down when he has a rail.”

Of the four formidable foes, Flexible comes in the smallest package at just 16 hands. His size has never been an issue, it actually adds to the impressiveness of his uncanny talent.

Flexible loves his job. “He’s rarin’ to go. He’s the kind of horse that wants to go to the ring. Especially now, as soon as you leave the warm-up ring and turn to the show ring, he perks up, he doesn’t want to warm-up anymore.”

“Calm, cool and collected? No he’s pretty wired. But that’s part of my job, I keep him contained and under control. “ Fellers said that as long as this formidable chestnut still loves to go jump those giant jumps, he won’t stop him. “I feel he could go another run. He’s got more in him.”

Flexible may be fiery but he is also full of heart.

When we spoke, Fellers had just returned from competing at the 2015 FEI LONGINES World Cup Final in Las Vegas, where they finished seventh overall. After going into the final day one point behind the leader, some would consider a drop to the seventh spot a disappointment, but not Fellers.

“He just was incredible. Part of me feels like he won. That last day was so big and so difficult, yet he had no problem with it. It wasn’t as if he didn’t have the scope—one of the rails was my mistake. He felt as good as ever. He was fighting all the way to the end. “

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FLEXIBLE RIDER: RICH FELLERS C O U N T R Y: U S A | A G E: 1 9 BREED: IRISH SPORTHORSE B A R N N A M E: F L E X I

Photo © FEI/Kit Houghton

Fellers said that as long as this formidable chestnut still loves to go jump those giant jumps, he won’t stop him.'I feel he could go another run. He’s got more in him.'

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Photo courtesy of Spruce Meadows

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KIWI IRON MARK Americans didn’t know much about this kiwi chestnut before the 2015 FEI LONGINES World Cup Finals.

Not having been on the world stage much at just eleven years old, and challenged by the space in the Thomas & Mack Arena at seventeen hands, this scopey show jumper nevertheless proved he could persevere.

and ultimately took the win. “He warmed-up great and after the first two fences in the ring he felt great. I was so relieved.”

New Zealander and new mom Katie Laurie is not new to the international arena. She comes from a show jumping family, and under her maiden name McVean she rode the young mare Dunstan Delphi to success at Spruce Meadows and in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Calm, cool and collected? Definitely not. “He’s a menace on the ground.

You can’t hang anything near him or he will destroy it. I put a brand new pair of Back on Track boots on and he ripped the straps off straight away,” Laurie explained. “We give him toys and he ignores those.”

He occasionally likes to show off, throwing his front legs around. He has his own style but he always tries.

Yes Laurie would label Mark a chestnut on fire, however he is a gentle giant. He’s the only horse she has put her daughter Grace on (who was ten months old at press time).

Laurie’s summer goal is to be chosen to represent New Zealand on the team heading to Hagen, Germany for the Olympic Qualifier at the end of August, getting some good miles along the way in Calgary.

She’s been working with Mark since he was a six-year-old.

“The circuit at home [in NZ] is close-knit, so you become friends with everyone. A friend of mine owned him and rung me up asking ‘Could you ride my horse this weekend?

I’m not very well.’" It turned out that her friend had cancer, and although a fighter, passed away a year later.

“She did get to ride him during that year. He was so gentle with her. He can buck and kick but never did with her, he knew,” Laurie said.

What makes Mark formidable besides his big heart?

“He will fight for you in the ring. He’s a little bit unorthodox but he wants to jump clear. He occasionally likes to show off, throwing his front legs around. He has his own style but he always tries.”

Photos © McCool

Laurie’s developed a routine for his warm-up that always includes a cross-rail and ends with a skinny oxer. Not a big fan of the warm-up ring, Mark’s ears perk up when he knows he’s heading to the show arena.

At the World Cup Finals in late April, Laurie and Mark had some trouble in the difficult triple combination on Day Two, not qualifying for the rounds on Sunday. She wanted Mark to get another chance in the ring and decided to compete in the Canadian Pacific Grand Prix on Saturday.

Pushing right past the poles flying the day before, Mark was one of three who jumped clean in the CP Grand Prix

KIWI IRON MARK R I D E R: K AT I E L A U R I E C O U N T R Y: N E W Z E A L A N D | A G E: 1 1 BREED: NEW ZEALAND THOROUGHBRED B A R N N A M E: M A R K june/july ·

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R OT H C H I L D Rothchild entered Ward’s string in 2007 as a six coming seven year old. For Ward, the story of Rothchild is one of many fond memories of his father Barney.

“I didn’t want to buy him. I actually refused to buy him. My father bought him while I was on the airplane.” Five years after the horse came to the barn, Barney lost his fight with cancer. The fierce chestnut has without a doubt proven worthy of purchase as well as the title of ‘formidable’.

ring he’s not difficult. However he does have a style all of his own. “I think when you watch his style of jumping and his physique you'd be hard-pressed to say he’s the ideal show jumper. But two assets have helped him overcome his less than ideal style, he’s very careful and extremely brave.”

Calm, cool and collected doesn’t describe Bongo, however Ward said ‘chestnut on fire’ would be an appropriate description. Just over 16h with a warrior mentality, Ward agreed that Bongo has a huge heart.

...two assets have helped him overcome his less than ideal style, he’s very careful and extremely brave.

Upon watching his ears-pinned expression while competing, you would think the horse was an angry, resistant schoolmaster, not an international superstar.

“His character is what makes him formidable,” explained Ward. “He’s a fighter and he tries—he gives you all he has to give you. He’s a very competitive horse.”

Posting several impressive wins, including LGCT's 2014 Grand Prix of Antwerp, 2014 World Team Bronze Medal and two very close seconds in the 2015 HITS Million Grand Prix events in Thermal and Ocala, one of the most bittersweet Rothchild stories comes from the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Caen. After some incredible performances, including going first on Day Two and giving the world a lesson on how to ride a difficult course clean, notably only twelve other competitors out of over a hundred matched that feat, the pair continued to go fault free moving up from 14th to 5th on the leaderboard.

Fifth is by all accounts a superb finish in a World Games.

However, all of us who followed this feat, secretly wanted to see the best riders in the world attempt to ride this fierce warrior in the Final Four.

As with any top athlete, their training program is uniquely their own and in this sport knowing what suits your horse is essential.

Although he can be a handful in the warm-up ring, in the

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ROTHCHILD R I D E R : M C L A I N WA R D C O U N T R Y: U S A | A G E: 1 4 B R E E D : B E L G I A N WA R M B L O O D B A R N N A M E: B O N G O

Photo © EqSol

“His warm-up is peculiar, you have to know him. Your warm-up can go in the wrong direction very fast,” Ward warned. “He’s a bit temperamental and very sensitive.

You can’t push him; it’s more like coaxing him. So I ride for about 15-20 minutes in the warm-up, enough to get him loose. He knows his job.”

In the two and half years she’s competed on Barron, the pair has earned several significant titles, including a 2013 LGCT Lausanne Grand Prix, 2013 Rotterdam Furusiyya Rider of the Day award after jumping a double clear in the Nations Cup for Team USA, a 2014 World Team Bronze Medal and a top ten finish (9th) in the 2015 FEI LONGINES World Cup Finals.

Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum touted Barron as one of the top talents competing at this year’s World Cup Final. When asked what makes him formidable, Davis essentially agreed. “I would say as Meredith did, he’s one of the best horses around. He’s scopey, careful, brave and quick. Everything you would want and need in a Grand Prix and Championship horse."

Davis is used to riding temperamental types; her previous horse Nemo 119 would buck as she entered the ring. Barron doesn’t buck, but he can have a ‘meltdown’ in the warm-up ring. “He’s very particular in the warm-up ring. He gets stressed if the warm-up is distracting. He will spin and get agitated, and not pay attention. So I take what I have and make it work. I keep calm and that helps,” Davis explained.

“He actually focuses really well when he gets to the show ring. Once he is going he’s on it.”

When it comes to personality, he’s ‘special’. “It’s remarkable how he changes his personality every day. He over analyzes everything. In the barn he’s our dainty little chestnut, our little flamboyant flower. He’s more experienced in the show ring, but he’s not more mature.But that is part of what makes him so good,” she said. “He’s formidable as a competitor. He can do anything, anywhere.”

BARRON R I D E R : L U C Y D AV I S C O U N T R Y: U S A | A G E: 1 1 B R E E D : B E L G I A N WA R M B LO O D B A R N N A M E: R E N Z O

BARRON

Photo © McCool

Renzo is one of Lucy Davis’s favorite architects, so when they decided to name her show jumper Barron after her grandfather, Robert Barron Frieze, she started calling him Renzo in the barn. “He’s a little flamboyant, it works,” she commented.

The formidable chestnut was turning nine when Davis purchased him at the end of 2012. “He was with a young Canadian Francois Lamontagne. He had already done a Nations Cup in Barcelona as an eight-year-old.”

Calm cool and collected? No. A chestnut on fire? “Yes I would definitely call him that.

He is very fiery in personality and explosive as a jumper, so yes I would say he is a chestnut on fire.”

I would say as Meredith did, he’s one of the best horses around. He’s scopey, careful, brave and quick.

Everything you would want and need in a Grand Prix and Championship horse.

Often based in Europe and competing all over the world, Barron has also traveled with Davis to Stanford so she could finish her degree. “He loves the Stanford barn.

He’s relaxed and calm. He’s still a punk when I ride him, spooking at everything, but he likes the environment." Soon, however, they are off to Europe for the summer where Davis will be based in Holland with Erick van der Vleuten.

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STYLEprofiles

by Sarah Appel & Terri Roberson

Trendy Trainer Gucci, Thin Leather Belt w/ Crystal G Buckle, $420 Great British Life, Equestrian Sterling Silver Snaffle Leather Bracelet, $70 Finds, Silken Favours Pretty Pegasus Silk-Crepe Shirt, $440 Adi Kissilvich, The Snaffle Bag, $310 Pikeur, Belina Jeans Breeches, $230 Ariat, The Dreamer Ballet Flats, $130

Pink is trending on the runway and is brightening up the barn ​a​isle. Not just for pony girls in pigtails, ​pink is the new “Yes Please!”​​Mix and match y ​ our wardrobe with super shades of this hot girlie color—from pale blush hues to super bright magenta and fuchsia. Go on and show off your sweet side, and embrace the pink.

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Jovial Junior Ariat, Liberty Paneled Pique Top, $50 Chicnova, Preppy Horse Backpack with Rivets, $11 C4 Belts, Classic Belt, $30 Kingsland, Merrit Low Sneakers, $77 J Brand, Distressed LowRise Skinny Jeans, $180

Ambient Amateur Be Positive Works, Lindsay, $98 Pikeur, Laurentina Softshell Jacket, $165 Cavalleria Toscana, Stretch-Jersey Breeches, $355 Hermes, Corfou Sandals, $830 Cavalleria Toscana, Mesh-Paneled Stretch-Jersey Top, $185 Jack Wills, Alban Saddle Bag, $429

Polished Pony Mom Katharine Page, Hampton, $375 Tods, Flower Luna Shoulder Bag, $1,545 Fior Da Liso, Andrea II BB, $132 Dimacci, Reversible Belt, $148 Bling Jewelry, Whoa Nelly Bracelet, $110 Vince, Side-Buckle Bermuda Shorts, $195

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LIFEofpessoa

by Alexa Pessoa

Hail to the Owners W

ith the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro just over the horizon that familiar frenzy of buying the ideal Olympic mount is in full swing. Horses eligible to compete in next year’s games must be secured by the respective nation before January 15th, 2016 in order to be eligible, which prevents last minute sales or extravagant leases taken out moments before the Games. The horse and rider must also achieve a certificate of capability together in order to be considered fit to compete at an event at this level. This means that these future Olympic horses should be in the barn by this year establishing a successful partnership with their rider.

In our world you are only as good as what you are sitting on. We have to fight to keep the best riders connected with the best horses to preserve the integrity of the sport.

Some riders and nations are lucky to have a plethora of top horses to choose from when selection time rolls around.

Others are still searching for that special horse that has the potential to bring home the Gold next August.

The question is, with prices on the rise and new emerging nations continuing to fuel that increase, how sustainable is the system of buying a great prospect or a current 1.60m talent? There are still homebred horses that excel and those that progress through the ranks with a rider, but only a select few are competitive at the international championship level. So it seems that spending seven figures is a prerequisite for competing at the most prestigious events.

And honestly if you have a young horse, once their talent is recognized, what do you do? If I had a talented nine-

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year-old I wouldn’t sell it for a song. At that point I would likely want six figures plus before giving up that potential Gold medal winner.

So riders not only have the challenge of finding those special horses but then the even bigger question they must answer is the financing one. Americans Laura Kraut and Kent Farrington have demonstrated the success of compiling a syndicate of owners to buy a top horse. The initial cost and annual maintenance fees are shared by all involved, as are the winnings. This can also eliminate the pressure of having to ask an individual to make such a large investment and the risk that entails. We also see individuals or private farms that choose to support a rider without the help of other investors. The generosity of all of these owners, be it a syndicate member or a private investor, is what make this sport possible for so many talented riders.

It is true, and appreciated, that the prize money offered has improved significantly over the last ten years, but even after a great season the winnings don’t recoup the investment of competing internationally. We embrace this because show jumping is a beautiful sport and the dedicated group that is involved is a part of something bigger, a lifestyle, a circuit of events that take us to some of the greatest places in the world, be it Del Mar or Shanghai, Washington D.C. or Aachen. This year alone international championships include Las Vegas and Toronto, and if the Olympics are in your future, Rio de Janeiro.

In our world you are only as good as what you are sitting on. We have to fight to keep the best riders connected with the best horses to preserve the integrity of the sport.

We rely on the support and admiration of the owners to make that happen.

Writer and amateur rider Alexa Pessoa, is profiled on page 8.

Photo by McCool

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BARNenvy

by Allison Heidmann photos by William Griffin and Allison Heidmann

Tri-H Stables BOZEMAN, MONTANA Tucked in amongst the mountains near Yellowstone National Park, in a picturesque enclave in southwest Montana, is an oasis for both horse and rider.

Presenting Tri-H Stables, recently purchased by Justin Griffin and Laura Love, where riders can enjoy the best of all worlds—from pleasure riding to top class show jumping—in the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

The commanding view of the Gallatin Mountain Range as seen from Tri-H Stables. june/july ·

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B

ozeman, Montana is a quintessential western mountain town, boasting magnificent scenery and activities for every outdoor enthusiast. Recently recognized as one of the fastest growing and most-desirable small towns to live in America, Bozeman offers a relaxed lifestyle with a smile, away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

At Tri-H, the amenities are second-tonone, with daily turnout in big grassy pastures, two large outdoor arenas and a well-equipped indoor arena. For the stabled horses, each extra large, custom stall has its own window and each aisle has wellappointed wash racks and grooming stalls.

Designed in the late 90s by Dean and Penny Hatten, Tri-H Stables was built to provide a

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comfortable place for equestrians to endure the long Montana winter. The main building boasts radiant floor heat to complement the large gas infrared heaters in the indoor arena, so that horses and riders can be comfortable year-round. When asked about her favorite features of the facility, Laura noted that the indoor arena trumps her list.

“It is very easy to maintain a comfortable temperature inside this arena all winter”, she remarked. “And the wood paneling and wonderful natural light really make the space feel warm and homey.”

Since the warmth of a new season is here, the equestrians at Tri-H are now enjoying the long glorious days of the Montana summer, with mountain views by day and the star lit big Montana sky by night.

Opposite: A beautiful sunny day in the larger of two outdoor arenas at Tri-H Stables; The horses enjoying their custom stall doors in the main barn aisle; Above: The large grassy courtyard is centrally located and adjacent to the grill and kitchen for entertaining at Tri-H

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Clockwise from left: A young sport horse is prepared for exercise; Tri-H owner, Laura Love, schools Quincy; One of Laura's favorite aspects of the property: The large indoor riding arena

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Clockwise from left: Well appointed wash racks and grooming stalls in the main barn aisle; Owners, Laura Love and Justin Griffin with their daughter Alice and dogs, Hank and Fannie; The barn apartment country style kitchen is perfect for apr猫sride entertaining; Wood paneling and custom saddle and bridle racks in the main tack room.

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DESTINATIONmongolia

by Peter Heidmann photos by Peter Heidmann, Shannon Moreaux, Cliff Montagne, and Wiltsie New

Genghis Khan

LIVES ON

From the moment you arrive in Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan (Genghis Khan) International Airport, you’ll be struck by contrasts.

Signs throughout the airport, and indeed throughout the entire country, are often written in Cyrillic, reflecting Mongolia’s historical connection to Soviet-style socialism through most of the twentieth century. But these days, signs are also written in English, as Mongolia has begun to embrace Western-style capitalism since the mid-1990s. The architecture of Ulaanbaatar reveals similar contrasts; gritty grey Soviet-style ministries and apartments are crowded side-by-side with gleaming modern glass skyscrapers. And the fast-paced, exhaust-tinged atmosphere of this rapidly growing city contrasts markedly with the nomadic, agrarian way of life of most Mongolians.

Mongolians’ reverence for the horse, however, is a unifying thread, just one of many aspects of Genghis Khan’s enduring legacy. Throughout the country, you’ll see depictions of Genghis

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and his descendants in all art forms, almost always portrayed with horses. Every summer, when the Naadam Festival, with the horse as its centerpiece rolls around, all work stops while athletes compete as they have for centuries, in the traditional Mongolian sports of horse racing, wrestling, and archery.

We travelled to Mongolia as part of BioRegions International (www.bioregions.org), a multi-disciplinary non-profit group based in Bozeman, Montana. BioRegions began with the recognition that ecosystem health is inseparable from animal health, or from human health, and that similar ecosystems and indigenous cultures can face similar challenges. The group works with communities, students, teachers, and professionals from Mongolia and the U.S. to build partnerships aimed at improving environment, society, economy, and infrastructure. Our role as equine veterinarians is to provide veterinary education, training, and outreach in rural Mongolia.

Families gather their herds in their communal summer feeding grounds and near watering holes in Orkhon Soum. Herds of horses number from twenty to several hundred, and are loosely shepherded through the vast valleys. june/july 路

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This sense of common culture has remained strong. But all in the group would agree that seeing horse races the likes of which have been run for centuries with little change since the time of Genghis Khan, was one of the highlights of the trip.

The whole structure of the races is unfamiliar to a Westerner.

Most Mongolian jockeys are children, usually less than nine years old. Already accomplished equestrian athletes, they ride with with a natural talent that is their birthright. With or without a saddle, they have the relaxed, easy seat that marks them as the offspring of an equestrian culture.

True harmony exists beyond the individual, or the moment, as the horses, with their jockeys mounted like royalty, race across the ancient landscape.

And the Mongolian horses, unlike the sleek and graceful racehorses seen in the West, are tough little hybrid ponies, with roached manes, short backs, and a powerful strength and athleticism; horses that must be very like those ridden

by Genghis himself.

The race begins with fifteen or twenty children perched atop their stolid mounts, trotting across the countryside, all bunched up in little knots with parents and trainers and handlers following behind them on horseback or motorbikes.

They ride across the grasslands to assemble at the appointed place, where a flag is dropped and they turn en masse, and streak back to the finish line, winner take all, simple as that.

Nearly 1000 years after his reign, Mongolians still take pride in their bond of kinship with Genghis Khan, who unified many disparate tribes and cultures under a single banner, and built a Mongol empire with tendrils stretching from the Korean peninsula in the East to modern-day Poland and Syria in the West. Although he brutally dispatched his rivals, most historians agree that he was also very progressive, supporting religious freedoms and establishing administrative systems such as a widely-accepted written language, a census, and a postal system to unify the growing Mongol empire.

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: 1. Race-horses tied to a picket in advance of race day. 2. Traditional Boots and Stirrups.

Metal stirrups are sometimes hundred of years old, heirlooms which are passed from generation to generation. 3. Traditional materials are often used to make ad hoc places hitching rails. 4.

Some fancy stirrups are worth hundreds of dollars. 4. Sunset on racehorses, tied to Mongolia hitching posts. 5. Jockeys mounted like royalty

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Left: Mongolian jockeys racing across the grassland ride with natural talent; Right: Training day for a green-broke racehorse All across Mongolia, whether in the cities or in rural counties, the excitement of the Naadam festival continues to be an annual high point. Even as the younger generation has increasingly begun to migrate to cities seeking opportunity, their connection to their rural heritage remains strong.

Though this migration is growing, the vast majority of Mongolians continue the traditional grazing methods practiced over the millennia. They follow the seasonal pasturelands where their parents, grandparents, and greatgrandparents grazed horses and cattle, sheep and goats; even setting camp in the same headwaters and coulees as their ancestors did in years gone by.

There is certainly a generational disconnect; as in other countries, it can be hard for grandparents to understand the allure of the city and a cell phone. But most young

Mongolians, even though they may aspire to a more modernday way of life, still respect and admire the rural lifestyle, and to a person, EVERYONE loves horse racing. Despite the vast geography of Mongolia and the extensive mix of generations, sub-cultures, and tribes, the entire nation still comes together once a year to celebrate their ancient festival.

Stop for a moment to imagine. Imagine the children, their horses, and the expansive landscape. Imagine all the history that is poured into each young vessel, the air and the grass and the mud. The flag is dropped, and the diminutive jockeys turn their mounts to race back toward the finish line. This is horse racing at its finest. True harmony exists beyond the individual, or the moment, as the horses, with their jockeys mounted like royalty, race across the ancient landscape.

Dr. Heidmann is an Equine Internal Medicine Specialist, and owner of Montana Equine Medical & Surgical Center. He is a member of the Board of Directors of BioRegions International

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VENDORspotlight

by Sarah Appel

Twenty-five year old Bizi Ferguson of Leawood, Kansas, has always had a love of horses and an eye for style. What started as an equestrian fashion blog turned into a mobile boutique in 2013, via an Airstream extraordinaire. With the support of her family and two pups Tibi and Wrigley, she is on the road bringing equestrian styles and current trends to horse shows from Tennessee to Pennsylvania.

Horse & Style: When and where did Bizi Bee Boutique start?

Bizi Ferguson: We started this adventure in the summer of 2013 and opened in November of that year. We’re based in Kansas City, but our first stop was in St. Louis at the National Equestrian Center Hunter/Jumper show in November.

H&S: What is your background in fashion?

BF: I have always had an interest in it and a love for creating new

styles. When I was a senior in college I created a blog about fashion with an equestrian flair, just for fun. Sometimes I did equestrian looks, sometimes I did everyday outfits with an equestrian theme, and other times I featured a fun ‘non-horsey’ fashion.

Photo to left of text: Bizi Bee Boutique founder, Bizi Ferguson, her mother, and their support team pose in front of the Airstream extraordinaire. june/july ·

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I graduated with a Strategic Communications degree from the School of Journalism at the University of Kansas, my ambition was to be a news anchor, but I decided it really wasn’t for me, so I had no clue as to what I would end up doing!

H&S: What is your background in horses?

BF: For years I begged my mom to let me take riding lessons, but she

wouldn’t because she was afraid of horses. My mom’s grandparents and aunt and uncle had a Saddlebred farm, and she thought the horses were very spirited. From when I was a toddler, we would go out to the farm and visit the horses, and I fell in love with them! I had a mini pony named Rusty that I had inherited from the farm across the street. Technically Rusty was my first horse, even before I started riding, and I still have him today.

When I was nine years old I started riding at a Western barn, where you ‘graduated’ to an English saddle. A family friend who rode dressage recommended a horse she knew that was for sale at a hunter/jumper barn.

He was an old school horse named Legend. I went to try him, and bought him then and there for $1,000. My parents thought that was expensive at the time! He was my introduction to the hunter/jumper niche.

Growing up at the barn, my nickname was Bizi Bee, so I named the blog “The Bizi Bee,” and that’s where the store, which was originally based on the blog, got its name.

H&S: What is the inspiration behind the visual merchandising in the store?

BF: We wanted to have an ‘Anthropologie’ look with an equestrian feel. My mom is very talented at visual merchandising and setting up the displays, she helps blend everything since we offer ‘street’ clothes as well as clothes that can be worn for riding, I am learning a ton about visual presentation from my mom.

H&S: What do you love most about owning your own store?

BF: The freedom that it gives me. I enjoy having an idea and seeing it come to life, and being in control of that process. Of course there are challenges to it as well, but the pros outweigh the cons. I didn’t really like having to report to a boss, especially when it came to my scheduling. I love horses and taking them to shows, and it was always hard to coordinate work with traveling. With my own business, I can do what I love and actually travel FOR work!

H&S: What are your favorite shows to attend as a vendor?

BF: So far, my favorite shows to attend as a vendor have been Brownland

Farm in Franklin, Tennessee and Equifest at Lamplight in Chicago. This year will be our first time at Devon and Harrisburg, and I’m sure those will make our list of favorites!

H&S: What do you look for in the products/brands you carry?

BF: When buying new products for the store, we always try to think like

our customers. Most of our clients are moms and daughters at the shows.

My mom looks for things that she would have liked to wear when she was at shows with me. It’s great because my mom and I are so much like our client base that it’s not very hard to see what they might like. We want the clothes we carry to be practical, unique, and comfortable while still being stylish. We pride ourselves in being a unique company carrying clothing lines or pieces that people have never seen or heard of before. That makes us a destination store.

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H&S: What brands are your favorites, and why?

BF: I really love the Good hYOUman clothing line, it’s been one of our most popular. It’s extremely comfortable, it benefits cancer research, and they do a private label for us. It’s also been fun to develop our own line. I have plans for it to expand and grow beyond just our logo line.

H&S: How do you compete with other online stores, deal sites, etc?

BF: In order to compete, you have to actually look the part, and that’s

something I didn’t really know how to do. So we recently hired a company to help update the website and make it more appealing. We will offer a discount to new customers, and we just initiated a rewards program for shoppers. When we have a sale, I often put some of the pieces online and promote it on social media.

H&S: What would be your advice to someone who wants to start their own mobile store?

BF: One definite piece of advice would be to do thorough research

on the trailer. We knew very little, and unfortunately the seller took advantage of us. A good investor is important, too, because capital is key for a start-up. I would also say to be patient and persistent. Nothing happens immediately, and it can be frustrating when you don’t see results right away, but it’s always worth it. Your initial ideas will change and may not end up being what you had originally thought, so be open to change, and be open to what works for your business.

H&S: What are your plans for the future?

Do you want to expand?

BF: Plans are already in the works for a line I’m designing called The

French Horse. It will be t-shirt styles that are casual but edgy, featuring horse words or phrases in French printed in cool fonts. I’m very excited about it!

Eventually, I would like to hire people to travel with the store. Some day I’d like to get married and have a family, and not be on the road quite as much. But I love it right now!

If not at the shows where the Airstream extraordinaire is parked, try bizibeeboutique.com BIZI BEE IS VERY SOCIAL:  facebook.com/bizibeeboutiquellc  twitter.com/bizibeeboutique  instagram.com/bizibeeboutiquellc

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LIKITO xx FINALLY OURS FORTUNA

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was a beauty, but with a strong personality. One of his former trainers frequently spoke of his trick of throwing his rider in the show ring and then stripping off his tack on the way back to the barn. Despite his good looks and obvious talent, he clearly didn’t fit the profile of a proper show horse. He had been sent to Hardin to see if she could help him conform a little better to the mold. “I thought of Buddy for Finally,” she said. “He deserved a horse of his own, like he gave me with Bert; and he had the patience and experience to find the good that went with the talent in Finally, something maybe I wasn’t going to find.”

When Finally arrived at Derby Hill, Brown spent time getting to know him and quietly earning his trust. It wasn’t long before Brown realized that this horse could be a terrific partner. He called him ‘Joey’ after a favorite childhood story, and Finally’s show name became ‘Finally Ours.’ Brown’s father Graham, who originally owned Buddy’s storied partner Sandsablaze, became a partner in Finally Ours, along with Buddy, his wife Vanessa, stepmother Betsy, and previous owners, the Coors family.

The quirky horse had found a home, and he started to blossom. As he gained trust in his new rider, he began to forego his old tricks, which gave Brown a renewed sense of joy. Joey seemed to be just the horse that Brown needed to wind down the Show Jumping part of his career and move in another direction.

Finally Ours Matchmaking the right horse and rider combination is a key aspect to success in our sport. Considering this, what do the Grand Prix superstar horse Bert and the Hunter Derby phenomenon Finally Ours have in common? The talented horsemen behind them, Kristin Hardin and Buddy Brown identified one another as the perfect partners for these quirky mounts, who otherwise may not have realized their full potential. Well-known names across the country in the jumper and hunter divisions, Hardin and Brown have an innate talent with what others may consider difficult horses.

A few years ago, Brown had a horse come through his barn that he knew had all the scope in the world, but also some moves that he might not want to deal with as he was winding down his legendary Grand Prix career. He thought of Hardin, and since then Bert and Hardin have forged a partnership that has allowed the tricky but talented horse to shine, with Grand Prix wins up and down the West Coast.

Shortly after Brown’s act of friendship, a horse named Finally came to Hardin’s barn, allowing her to return the favor. The black horse was well known in Northern California for being tough. Finally

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As they continued to build their bond, the wins followed. In 2014 they won four major derbies, including the $25,000 Grand Prix Hunter Derby at the Del Mar International Horse Show. Another win of note was the $7,500 Crown Affair Open Hunter Derby at Sonoma Horse Park in June. Especially meaningful to Brown, his father and stepmother were on hand to watch their horse win, and to join in the presentation photo.

While Finally Ours has cleaned up his act and is a consistent winner, he still retains some of his more endearing quirks. He must have his earplugs in for hand walks, and he has little patience if treats remain too long in Brown’s pocket.

Despite his good looks and obvious talent, he clearly didn’t fit the profile of a proper show horse.

The future looks bright for this pair. Brown and Joey are aiming for the Franktown Meadows International Derby in June, and possibly a trip east for the USHJA International Derby Finals and the $500,000 HITS Hunter Prix Final in the fall.

Brown’s wife Vanessa, a champion rider in her own right, said, “We’re both kind of bitten by the Derby bug; we have a bit of friendly rivalry going. He has Finally Ours and I have High Regard, and it’s my greatest wish that we could go to Derby Finals together and both do well.”

With Brown in the irons, Finally Ours has found his perfect match.

Opposite: A loving moment between man and horse; Above: Buddy and Finally Ours in winning form at Sonoma Horse Park

Brandi Cyrus and Everlasting for Bizi Bee Boutique Photography: Amber Ulmer

ASKdr.carrie

Q:

I am an adult rider with many years of experience as a junior, professional, and amateur but I just completed a seven-year break from riding. I am back in the saddle and looking for advice about managing the inner voices of doubt and fleeting moments of terror I experience when I jump.

A:

The inner-voices of self-talk typically cover over 200 words per minute. If and when these words go undirected, the mind wanders to the negative as a matter of survival. Negative thoughts originally were what helped us to remember to steer clear of the sabertoothed tiger and to avoid walking off cliffs. Your survival is not exactly at stake when you ride, but the amount of adrenaline and focus needed to navigate even a pole and cavaletti exercise is similar to the heightened brain function that occurs when you are being chased or avoiding catastrophe.

The trick here is to focus your thoughts on the task at hand and train your brain to be aware of each stride, aid, and nuance of what you are doing rather than on what might go wrong.

Q: A:

Practice focusing your thoughts on all of the physical tasks you do off the horse so that it becomes second nature to be winded and have task-oriented focus.

Allow any negative thoughts to flow through you and return your focus to the task at hand. When the door of terror emerges as you start to the first fence, go through it! The rhythm, stride, and horse-human connection will resurface if you have the courage to walk through the door.

Special note: This question came from me as I am back in the saddle and experiencing all of the joys and challenges right along with my fellow riders. My respect for all of you has increased exponentially and I am so thrilled to be back among you. Look forward to seeing you at the back gate soon!

I have had some career-high successes over the past year and now I am struggling to keep up this level of performance. What should I do?

Big wins are like candy! They are sweet and we can never get enough of them. Being careful not to focus on them as our main source of nutrition, but knowing they will be there in the form of dessert helps to alleviate their addictive quality. Wins inspire us to keep working hard and give us the conviction to return to the ring and hone our craft; however it’s better to define yourself by the journey, not the wins and losses.

When you feel low in the confidence department, reflect on the successes you have had including wins, personal bests, got-yourself-out-of-a-jam moments, and victories over self-doubt. Conversely, when you are feeling full of confidence and prowess, bring yourself back to the here and now. When your ego kicks in, remember how easy it is to falter. Horses despise the

Carrie Wicks,Ph.D. |

(707) 529-8371

|

human ego because it takes their rider out of the body and into the narrative mind, leaving the horse with a disconnected partner.

Riding well is not about the outcome. You can win a class because your mistake was the least glaring, and you can beat everyone when you break the timer .01 of a second faster than the field. Dial into your relationship with each horse, each day. Notice what types of communication work well, connect to the stride, use visualization to share the plan and track with your equine teammate. Definitely relish in the joy of winning and ride with confidence, but remember the reward of connection as you enter the ring with your equine partner.

carrie@carriewicks.com

|

drcarriewicks.com

Dr. Carrie founded The (W)inner’s Circle for Equestrians, a membership-based program that supports riders to develop a mental practice for peak performance. She regularly consults with riders and trainers. She is also a parenting guru who guides teens and parents through challenges while deepening their bonds and navigating adolescence. Dr. Carrie was a top Junior/Amateur competitor, a young professional rider, and mother of an elite gymnast and an equestrian. She has worn all the hats!

Her doctoral dissertation, “Adolescent Equestrienne Athletes’ Experiences of Mindfulness in Competition” is in the Library of Congress and is currently being revised as a book for the public.

If you would like to ask a question for this column or ask about a complimentary Performance Strategy session, please contact Carrie.

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OUT&about

O L D S A L E M FA R M – N O R T H S A L E M, N E W Y O R K

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1. Ellie Ferrigno & Boneparte Z looking sharp 2. Beezie Madden & Cortes C soaring through the air 3. McLain gave his winning sash to this sweet girl 4. Trend spotting: pastel braids in the lead line 5. Lead line smiles 6. Karen Polle and Jeter lead the victory gallop 7.

Savanna Hajdasz and Zarousch share their victory with the crowd

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Photos © Lindsay Brock/Jennifer Wood Media

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8. And the crowd goes wild! 9. Holly & Logan Orland present the 2015 Leading Hunter Rider 10. Beezie is all smiles after a great round on Cortes 11. McLain Ward tips his hat while taking his victory gallop on HH Carlos Z 12. TJ O’Mara, Katherine Strauss, Lucy Deslauriers and Ally Worthington having a ringside chuckle13. The dashing Quentin Judge and Dark De La Hart 14. All lead liners should hydrate well!

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BEHINDthelens

Arden Ward

Upton

I use the lens of my camera to convey a world full of beauty, emotion, and sentiment. It has always been about the details, and I seek to make these the focus of every image I produce. Now, reaching further into my creative roots, this has become reality. Over the past fifteen years, I have photographed hundreds of thousands of images for clients and spent precious personal hours working on my own art projects in between magazine shoots and weddings. With my camera, I create art and unique images that capture the essence of life.

When it comes to photography, I have a lot of “time in the saddle,” and it is only fitting that my passion for horses and wildlife be represented through my current collection Equus. These images have been years in the making, and were in my heart even before I captured them. Seeing them come to fruition is such an exciting time for me.

From Photographer to Photographic Artist, I have returned to those creative roots. My own evolution as an artist has brought me back to the beginning, where my creative vision was born, and where my passion to capture the emotions of an image began.

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june/july 路

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OUT&about

SPLIT ROCK JUMPING TOUR - LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

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1. Charlise Casas poised to enter the ring 2. Thursday’s FEI Horse Inspection 3. Victory ride for Charlise Casas, she earned both 1st and 2nd in the UltrOz Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Final 4. Fun for the kids too—arts & crafts cuteness 5. A gorgeous walking path from the warm-up ring to the The Rock Jumping Field 6. Every horse show should have a Candy Bar! 7. The Split Rock signature jacket 8. Beautiful oversized ribbons were awarded in each class 9. The VIP Tent 10. Linda and Willow Allen

Photos © EqSol

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CANyoustandit?

Urban Unicorn Unicorns are on-trend in main stream fashion. With their majestic manner, endless glitter supply and, most importantly, their magical horn, they epitomize equine power. Although our favorite spirit animals can’t go everywhere with us, we can make a chic—and totally legendary—fashion statement when wearing this gorgeous pendant necklace. An ideal way to be trendy with an equestrian flare. Show your inner power!

Magix Maxi Luxe Pendant Necklace, $3,500.00 Mas Bisjoux

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