RIDERspotlight by Meghan Blackburn
Josephina
Nor Lantzman You can’t follow West Coast show jumping without knowing the name Josephina Nor Lantzman. With her grey Zangersheide gelding, Chello Z, the petite, blond-haired rider better known as “Phina” frequently tops the grand prix classes throughout California, where she is a longtime resident. Although born in Phoenix, AZ, 31-year-old Phina grew up in Beverly Hills and Rancho Santa Fe, CA. When she was a young child, Phina’s parents were active in Thoroughbred racing, and she got her introduction to horses at the racetrack. They also started Norfields Boots and magnetic therapy back in the ‘90s, but Phina’s made her own name in the show jumping industry, thanks to her talent and style in the show ring. Find out how she embraces the Southern California lifestyle, why she represents Brazil in competition, and the longtime role that her father, Fabio Nor, has played in her successful career.
Horse & Style: When did you start riding? Josephina Nor Lantzman: Both of my parents had horses so it’s in my blood. I started when I was three or four at the racetrack on a little exercise pony. I did my first horse show when I was nine. It was at Indio - back when it was a three-week circuit.
H&S: You show for Brazil - how did that happen? JNL: My dad is Brazilian and my mom is American. My dad registered us at the Brazilian consulate when we were born, so we all have dual citizenship. In my early twenties, I went to Europe and competed with the Pessoas and did a Nations Cup with the Brazilian Equestrian Team.
H&S: Do you speak Portuguese? JNL: I speak a little, more so when I’m around it for a while, but I understand a pretty good amount.
H&S: When did you go pro? JNL: I came back from Europe and competed for about eight more years as an amateur. I knew it was time to take that next step when I had been successful on that level consistently. I turned pro in 2011, after I won the Show Jumping Hall of Fame three years in a row. Now I also enjoy working with a few clients; it’s very rewarding to see them progress.
H&S: Who are the horses you have competing now? JNL: Chello Z, my grand prix horse that I brought along; and I have a young Thoroughbred named Academic Victory that I show in 1.25 meter classes right now. I’ve worked with a few others over the years and sold them. My first top show jumper, Only One, was just recently put down. He was an incredible horse and a good friend to us all over the years.
H&S: What’s the story on Chello Z? JNL: We bought him as a five-year-old, and we had high hopes for him. It seems he knew his job; he always jumped clean rounds when he was young. We competed in the Young Jumper Championships and he was successful every year in his classes as he advanced through the ranks. I truly believe in him. He has a great instinct, and we know each other well.
H&S: What is life like for you out of the show ring? JNL: My husband Justin Lantzman and I live in Del Phina Nor Lantzman and Chello Z's most recent victory came in the $50,000 Grand Prix of Showpark CSI-W on August 31st in Del Mar, CA
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