International Show Horse Magazine Spring 2019

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ABOUT THE COVER

FIZZY HEIR WC Mountainview’s Heir To Fortune x Caramac’s Fizzy Lady

Presented by Vicki Reed Southern Saddlebred Spring Fling

Fine Harness Amateur Grand Champion Fine Harness Amateur Champion

Owned by Vicki and Sam Reed Hinsdale, Illinois

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Trained by BRUWER STABLES A.J. Bruwer, Trainer Versailles, Kentucky 859-879-9181

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CONTENTS

12 52 54 70 86 90 94 104 122 126 130 134 136 140 144 147 158

ADVERTISERS

46 FC 77 58 4 178 166 17 172 101 2 171 173 33 18 15 30 98 174 107 48 177 100 176 IFC 13 146 84 OBC/IBC 175 39

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About the Cover American Saddlebred Museum Must-Haves Saddler Distilling Julie Broder Parys Christmas Festival Tersia Malan Bethlehem Championships Western Province Championships South African Senior and Junior Protea Equitation Teams George Borcherds Amateur Spotlight: Beth Bidon Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Allison Deardorff Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Hoof KY Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Junior Exhibitor Profile: Hadley Novak Amateur Spotlight: Sharon Wilson Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Trainers Helping Horses in Need Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Getting to know: Pryor Baird Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Ribbon to Ribbon Double Exposure Brooke and Jane Jacobs

Autumn Hills Farm Bruwer Stables Buck-Ridge Stables De Bosch Stables Deardorff Stables Etowah Stables Far Away Farms Harper Stables Janet Thompson Juhantha Stables Kalarama Farm Landon Farm Linden Hill Stables Marjorie Judd Stables Matt Shiflet Stables Mercer Springs Farm Milestone Stables Mountainview Stables New Beginnings Noble Equestrian Centre Perfect Touch Farm Reiser Stables Revelation Hill Equestrian Centre Saddler Distilling Skyline Stables Snyman Stables Tomahawk Valley Venture Stud Visser Stables Walnut Way Farm Wingswept Farm

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THE TEAM Pieter Hugo Managing Director

Johan Blom Chief Executive Officer

Madge Bass USA Sales Manager

Marguerite Odendaal Senior Designer

Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer Features/Profiles

Julie Anne Broder Executive Assistant

Meghan von Ballmoos Features/Billing Director

Gasnat Jaffer Office Manager

www.showhorse.co.za EDITORIALS: Johan Blom johan@silvermane.co.za (0027) 83 324 3709 Pieter Hugo pieter@showhorse.co.za (001) 502 321 8305 Meghan von Ballmoos meghan@showhorse.co.za (001) 860 605 5041 Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer DESIGN: Marguerite Odendaal mleroux@silvermane.co.za ADVERTISING: Madge Bass bass.madge@gmail.com (001) 502 299 8523 Julie Broder julie@internationalshowhorse.com ORDERS & INVOICING: Gasnat Jaffer gasnat@showhorse.co.za 32b Whitlers Way, Hout Bay 7806, South Africa

INTERNATIONAL DIALING CODES: SA (0027) AND USA (001)

Published by:

www.silvermane.co.za

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South African Show Circuit

PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

The 2018 PARYS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, where South Africa’s top Saddle Horses, Hackney Ponies and Welsh Ponies came together to compete in style, once again did not disappoint our highest expectations. Hosted at the spectacular Afridome Indoor Venue, all stables were booked, paid and filled long before the closing date, confirming the popularity of this elite show. 306 Saddle Horses, 43 Hackney Ponies, 21 Welsh Ponies and 9 horses from other breeds were entered.

JP Hugo, Koekie de Villiers and Ian Maritz had the honour to judge at this prestigious show. Poy Coetzee and brother Spyker managed the arena, while Kosie Pansegrouw and DeVos Malan did the announcing, once again unequalled in their passion and style. Wessel Vermaas and Chris Wilke handled the collecting ring. The Parys Committee would like to convey its appreciation and gratitude to all officials who worked at the show, whose attitude and service were of the highest standard and contributed greatly to the success and standard of our show.

The Parys Christmas Festival Committee, under chairmanship of Dries Moolman, herewith expresses sincere gratitude and appreciation to every sponsor, be it the sponsor of a Grand Championship or the sponsor of a qualifying class.

The committee approached this year’s show rather hesitantly, given the dire economic situation, but the unwavering support of the show’s loyal sponsors once again enabled the organisation of a great show. The committee cannot thank its sponsors enough.

BY TERSIA MALAN

Championships for 2018: Gulfstream Energy was the sponsor of the Grand Champion ThreeGaited Park Horse, Ukuqala (Dries Moolman) sponsored the Fine Harness Championship, with Umvuzo Health/IXU Sport doing the honours for the Single Hrness Championship. The Amateur Championships were sponsored by Junior Smith Trucking, Afridome, De Bosch Stables and Heymans Kole, with the three Pleasure Horse Championships taken care of by Dries Moolman Boerdery, Apple Dew Guest House and Boerefort.

Van Staden Qualygrow (Johan & Moleine) provided for the Five-Gaited Children’s Championship, Wilgekrans Game Reserve (Wim Bester) the Three-Gaited Children’s Championship, and Human Auto Ford (Jacques Strydom) sponsored the Three-Gaited Children’s Park Championship.

Both the Amateur- and Open Ladies Fine Harness Classes were sponsored by Moleine van Staden – Van Staden Qualygrow. Econo Steel sponsored the Welsh Pony Championship and Rovic Stables as always supported the very exciting Hackney Pony Championship. All these sponsorships are of great value for the show and definitely cannot make do without such outstanding support.

The Premier Sponsor for the last few years, also the sponsor of the five-gaited Grand Championship, is NOUWENS CARPETS, and by name, Luci Nouwens. The show committee shares your passion, dedication and love for Saddle Horses.

Luci, and thanks you for helping with such a generous contribution! Your support is very much valued and appreciated.

We thank and salute all the Sponsors of our Grand

Grand Champion Five-Gaited Pleasure Horse COLOUR ME GAMBIT & CHRISTENE NAUDE Sponsored by Boerefort 72

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Grand Champion Five-Gaited Horse STUDCOR ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH & ADRIAAN ODENDAAL Sponsored by Nouwens Carpets

Grand Champion Amateur Five-Gaited Horse WILMAR KING COBRA & CHRISTIEN STRYDOM Sponsored by Afridome THE INTERNATIONAL SHOW HORSE

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PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY Grand Champion Amateur Fine Harness Horse VISSERSHOF WAR’S X FACTOR & LIESBETH KRETSCHMER Sponsored by Heymans Kole

Grand Champion Single Harness CS UKUQALA & CECIL DU PLESSIS Sponsored by Umvuzo Health

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Grand Champion Amateur Park Horse BRIDGEWATER’S RISING TO GLORY & GARLAND POIL Sponsored by Junior Smith Trucking

Grand Champion Park Horse JUHANTHA FRENCH WARRIOR & ELRA TONKIN-BIERING Sponsored by Gulfstream Energy

Grand Champion Fine Harness Horse SHOW ME ULTIMATE JOE & CHARLIE BROWN Sponsored by Ukuqala

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South African Show Circuit

PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

The show committee would like to convey sincere appreciation to all the sponsors of the qualifying classes! The willingness of the saddle horse friends and supporters to answer to the call every year, makes this great show possible! Saddle Horses are exceptional animals and those who own and love and support them are as well! Thank you very much from us all!

UMVUZO Health / IXU Sport once again sponsored the Grooms’ Soccer Tournament, now already an annual highlight for the players as well as their supporters. The prelims were hosted in the arena on Wednesday evening before start of show, with the final game in peak hour on Saturday.

The team from Rovic Stables was crowned well deserved victors this year, with the Western Cape Hackney Pony Team being the runners-up. Thank you to Heinrich Rix for sponsoring this event for the caretakers, who really do deserve a bit of fun and a lot of appreciation for all the effort they put in to make our horses ready for the show arena. A special braai for all the caretakers was sponsored

by JPMalan Boerdery.

The Sponsor- and Exhibitor’s Function, catered for

by Karen from Afridome Restaurants, was a lovely get-together held in the arena on Thursday evening after the first day’s classes. The NGSU Equitation Team to compete at the 2019 SSSA Protea trials, was introduced at this occasion and colours

awarded. Much laughter and fun were derived from the “Derby@Dice” game, which offered a great cash prize of R10 000 for the winners. The victors were Graeme and Sonja, who selflessly returned the prize as a sponsor to our show. Thank you very much for this positive gesture.

Father Christmas visited in true VALTRAC style on Saturday morning and excited the children with small gifts for everyone. In-between classes, the kids also entertained spectators by partaking in “stick horse” races, which drew quite a lot of interest and resulted in much cheering. Hopefully the “gaits” will be more pure in next year’s races!

Once more the Lucky Draw Competition, where all horses’ show numbers are entered and excellent prizes are at stake, proved to be a hit amongst exhibitors, horse owners, and spectators, with extra tickets that could be bought for the draw.

First prize, a luxury break-away weekend for 2, was won by a Hackney Pony exhibitor, Shattie van Huyssteen.

The planned date for the 2019 Parys Christmas Festival is 5 - 7 December.

The Parys Xmas Festival Show Committee invites everyone to join us. Bring your friends, come visit us in Parys and enjoy this final festival show of the year with us!

Grand Champion Fine Harness Hackney Pony HEARTLAND VIBRANCE & SALIE DAVIDS Sponsored by Rovic Stables 76

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Grand Champion Children’s Five-Gaited Horse BRIDGEWATER’S NITE SONG & MARCEL V STADEN Sponsored by Van Staden Qualygrow

Grand Champion Children’s Park Horse CAVALLI CARPATHIA & CHANIKA LABUSCHAGNE Sponsored by Human Auto Ford Grand Champion Amateur Three-Gaited Horse NOBLE WICKED NITE & DENIELLE DERCKSEN Sponsored by De Bosch Stalle

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PHOTOS BY ELPITA PHOTOGRAPHY

Grand Champion Three-Gaited Horse JUHANTHA COURAGEOUS & ELIZKA JORDAAN

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MUCH APPRECIATION TO ALL OUR 2018 SPONSORS Afridome Apple Dew Guest House Arnold Naude Bethlehem Vurkkhysers Boerefort Cecil du Plessis Cerealis Charbella Charolais Cloverfield Wines Dale Brits De Bosch Stalle Diamond D Cattle Farms DMV Consultants Dream Acres Equestr Centre Dries Moolman Boerdery Du Plessis Familie Trust Econo Steel El Shaddai Stalle Enviro Stroper Kontrakteurs Equifeeds George Aldrich GF Olivier Boerdery Gulfstream Energy Heavy Duty Towing Heymans Kole Hoener Strydom Human Auto Ford Johnstone Familie JP Malan Boerdery Jabbies en Elra Lotz Junior Smith Trucking Junior Tonkin Jurijan Stalle Kosie Pansegrouw Ludwig Schnebel Noble Equestrian Stables Noord Gau Saalperd Unie Noord Kaap Saalperd Unie Nouwens Carpets IXU Sport Robvaal Boerdery Rovic Stalle Shaylee Familie Trust Show Me Stalle Truway Engineering Valentine Stalle Valtrac Van Staden Qualygrow Van Wyk Boerdery Vetsbrands Vreugde Stalle Ukuqala UMVUZO Health Viking Meubelvervoer Wilgekrans Game Reserve

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SUPREME’S RARE DREAMER RARE SUPREME X BELL OF LA OW N E D B Y - P I E T & S O N E T M O L L E R , C E R E S 86

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Dearest Piet and Sonet As I sit back and think about our journey together with the Incomparable Dreamer, All I can say is Thank You! Thank you for entrusting him to us at the Buck-Ridge team, Thank You for always believing in us no matter what the results were, Thank You for never saying no for every single thing I asked for. I know that no matter what the future holds your kindness and humbleness will be a feeling I will treasure forever.

All My Love Elizka xx

To Dreamer You have always been a source of joy and happiness to me and my family, ever since you were a youngster your presence and grace has always shined through, every class you made me proud to think I bred and raised you, you are a breeders dream come true, I am eternally grateful to every person that has had an input into the great horse he is today, a special thank you to Elizka and the Buck-Ridge team who has always treated him with the utmost care and respect.

Thank You Piet

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SOUTH AFRICA -

SENIOR PROTEA TEAM

ANJE DERCKSEN Age: 17.

School: Bloemhof Girls’ High School.

What are your goals for the year? To have a successful week at Nationals and win gold with my team in the Invitational competition in USA in July. Also, to grow as a rider and improve on the things I struggle with.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My current five-gaited performance horse, That’s My Way, is 20 years old, but always gives his best. He has so much fire in him, and few things compare when he sits down and performs a SUPER rack!

A mare I previously showed, Final Star, is also a ride I always loved. She was a fiery challenge in the show ring and you could never be too relaxed and comfortable when riding her. She tested all your skills and I learned a lot of horsemanship skills from riding her.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? WCC CH Honey Badger – watching him give his all in the Ladies Five-Gaited Amateur class at Louisville 2018 is a memory I’ll never forget.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Doing sports, studying or spending time with animals and friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I absolutely love tomatoes!!

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Zandri Snyman. Zandri was not only an excellent equitation rider, but she is an outstanding horsewoman with a big love for her horses, and all animals. I admire her for her friendliness, kind heart, and how she enjoys every moment in the show ring.

Who is your equitation instructor? Adriaan Odendaal.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Hallo Pampoen!” and “Ag, jy’s ‘n ou huffel…”

CARLA KRUGELL Age: 18.

School: C&N Oranje Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? To do the best we can in the competition in America.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Buccaneers Delight, when I first saw Buccaneer I fell in love with him. He taught me to be patient, to listen and never give up on him. He brings out the best in me.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Supreme Rare Dreamer, because he has a lot of motion.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing hockey and spending time with my family and friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have been riding horses from the age 5.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester, because she was determined to reach her dream and never gave up.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elizka Jordaan Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Pretty Carla!”

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CARLA CONRADIE Age: 18.

School: Hoerskool Langenhoven, Riversdale.

What are your goals for the year? To help my Protea team to win the gold medal and to pass my matric exams with 7 A’s.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Mud Guts and Glory, because he is truly an amazing horse and it was a thrill to ride a horse that is such a magnificent five-gaited performer.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Undulata’s Sathmo, he is truly a beautiful horse who I saw performing in America, and because he is black I love him even more, even though he is only a child’s pleasure horse, he is still one of the most beautiful horses I have ever seen perform.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I am not away at school I’m enjoying my life on our Karoo farm.

Most people don’t know this about me: I really like listening to very old music. And I’m very scared of frogs.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester, because she is, according to me, one of the best equitation riders in South Africa, yet she is still a very humble person.

Who is your equitation instructor? Jacques Wiggens.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Roll your shoulders!!”

IANÉ FERREIRA Age: 16.

School: C&N Oranje Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? For our team to win the competition in America and to improve my horse riding skills. Also to show in Louisville Kentucky.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Colour Me Gold I’m Told, because he has a fire for showing in him and we understood each other perfectly.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he performs with passion, style and proudness, he has a great rhythm and he is mindblowingly beautiful.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play netball, focus on my school work, and most probably planning to go to practise horseriding again.

Most people don’t know this about me: I actually only started horse riding because my sister did, not because I really wanted to. In hindsight it was actually a great choice.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Lauren Osbourne. She has an outstanding seat, also she can ride any horse, of any discipline, and she will win anyway. She loves horses and makes everyone stop and stare.

Who is your equitation instructor? George Borcherds.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Praat met die perd, ek hoor jou nie praat nie” and “Jy sit soos n vraagteken” and “Bene, Iane bene. Net jou kuit moet druk”

ZANKI BOTHA

BRIGITTE LYN NEL

Age: 15.

School: Volkskool Graaff Reinet.

What are your goals for the year? To show my horses to the best of their abilities and to raise my game- though my greatest pleasure is to just show and enjoy them.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Chestnut Champ.

We have been through a lot together. I won the u/8 class with him and made the senior team on him this year. He is my best partner in the show ring and always gives his best.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? I’m McDreamy - the ultimate equitation horse - showing like a top class performance horse with riders like Hunter Chancellor, Courtney McGinnis and Macey Miles.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play hockey for my school’s first team, play tennis and do modern dancing. When I am home over weekends I am a stable/ farm girl.

Most people don’t know this about me: I like working with numbers and I also like cooking or rather experimenting in the kitchen.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Willie de Jager - he is an excellent horseman. He rides the most difficult horses effortlessly... never losing his equitation style.

At our stables I have been sitting with the nanny watching my sister Delise practice... she has always been an idol to me.

Who is your equitation instructor? My mother Sumeri Botha and my grandpa, Danie Marais.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: My mother has quite a distinctive vocabulary..!!! But she always tells me to “show” my horse and if I should struggle on a horse not to show it.

My grandpa always tells me: “You’ve got this!!” He taught me and my sister: Good hands, think fast but, keep a slow heartbeat.

Age: 15.

School: Collegiate Girls High School.

What are your goals for the year? To do my best and always try harder.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Valleys Raincloud - he is just amazing.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? Black is beautiful- was one of the prettiest horses ive ever seen.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing netball.

Most people don’t know this about me: I play the French horn.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? My dad - he is an amazing role model.

Who is your equitation instructor? Koekie de Villiers.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Focus focus focus.”

NADINE BESTER Age: 15.

School: Afrikaans Girls’ High School Pretoria.

What are your goals for the year? My goal is to improve myself as rider by working on my skills and weaknesses, but also building on my strengths.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My favorite ride has definitely been Wilmar Wild Night. That horse has such a big heart and with every stride he gives you can feel his rhythmic beat beneath you. When he spooks, he starts to crawl and then the fun begins. His snorting gives you chills and he is just an amazing horse. It is just a thrill from when you get on until you ‘must’ get off.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why?

My favourite horse that I’ve seen perform is Fox Grape’s The Tiger Lily. That mare has presence wherever she goes and although she is not the biggest horse that doesn’t stop her from riding her heart out on every step.When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I’m exercising, mostly in the gym.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am very ticklish, and my nicknames at the stables are: Goofy, Dean or Sticks!

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Nicole Bester. She had the biggest impact on my equitation career and she is my role model. She is a true example of how to inspire/ motivate others to become the best rider/ person that they can possibly be. Her track record speaks for itself and I would one day want to be such an inspiration to upcoming riders.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Strive for precision and perfection!!”

CHANIKA LABUSCHAGNE Age: 18.

School: Bothaville High School.

What are your goals for the year? To grow as a rider and horsewoman.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Carpathia, because he knows when we go into a championship, and then he fires up like a sports car and performs his heart out. And we have such a special bond, which I have never had with a horse before.

Which is your favourite horse you even seen performing and why? Braveheart Warrior, he performed with so much heart. And he had the most stylish slow-gait. And could rack up a storm.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I do sports and gym.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am always keen to have some fun.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why?

Victoria Walz, she rides with so much passion.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elra Tonkin Biering.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Remember to open your gate”

LIZERESE JANSE VAN RENSBURG Age: 15.

School: Afrikaans Girls’ High School Pretoria.

What are your goals for the year? To win gold at internationals with an amazing team and to make lots of memories in the USA. Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Jackelberry. The ride was given to me as a surprise from Tannie Sanna Botha. I was the only child ever put on her and she won the champion three-gaited horse at a lot of our Regional shows. The mare is a home-bred and is a thrill to ride!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? O’wars Duchess. The fact that she is a mare and does so well is amazing. The way she carries herself in the ring makes it hard to look away. She also won the champion Mare Harness class at Bloem show 7 years in an row!

This mare is amazing! She was exported to the USA in October 2018.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I’m not riding horses I play netball and have adventures with my friends and family.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have tripophobia and my eyes change color according to my mood.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicola Burger. She got Senior team when she was only 12 years old. She is an amazing horsewoman and her tests were always perfect. She taught me a lot and constantly motivated me. She is now a trainer in America.Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most:“Take your inside hand and most importantly less is more!”

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SOUTH AFRICA MARICHEN PIEK Age: 18.

School: Hoer Volkskool.

What are your goals for the year?

To enjoy my Matric year and get accepted into University to study Psychology.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My Dad’s horse, Mamma’s Choice. I was involved in his training from a young age and saw his progression. It was an honour to get the chance to ride this amazing horse who has so much to offer, when I took him over from my Dad. Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe. He gives me butterflies every time I watch him.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing netball and probably busy with school work.

Most people don’t know this about me: I am really scared of ponies.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Tammy Wilke, she was an amazing rider and always made it look so effortless.

Who is your equitation instructor? Sumeri Botha.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Haal asem!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

MARION SCHNEBEL Age: 13.

School: Curro Hazeldean.

What are your goals for the ye.ar? I want to improve myself mentally and physically.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Ventana Star Dance. We have a strong bond and she has done so much for me. I will never forget her she will always stay with me even if she’s not my horse anymore.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he has so much energy, he rides with his heart and he give his all when he is in the show ring.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I play netball and swim for the school.

Most people don’t know this about me: My nickname is Max for a very specific reason, I have dentist phobia.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Nicole Bester. She has achieved so much and she is a perfect example to follow. I want to be that rider that everyone looks up to and I want to set an example for those who will follow.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Pick her up and turn her loose.”

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JUNIOR PROTEA TEAM CHRISTINE NAUDÉ Age: 14.

School: Bethlehem Voortrekker Hoërskool.

What are your goals for the year? I want to work really hard this year to make the Senior Protea World Cup team next year.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Shrek, my Five-Gaited horse, he is the ultimate horse. He is a gogetter and always gives me his best and more. He is goodnatured and a true champion!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, he fills me with awe every time he enters the arena. He’s got a presence like no other horse!

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Playing hockey and hanging out with my friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I don’t like to watch animal movies, because it breaks my heart to see any kind of animal suffering.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Victoria Waltz, she inspires me, because she has so much passion for the sport and she always seems to enjoy it.

Who is your equitation instructor? Glenda Koen Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Christine, slow yourself down.”

MIGNON SCHNEBEL Age: 15.

School: Curro Hazeldean High School.

What are your goals for the year? I want to improve in myself and ride to my full potential. I want to become the best rider I can be.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? Shooting Star, because he has the biggest heart and will give you everything he has for each ride and class even when he gets tired. His heart is just that big!

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? My favourite horse is probably Ultimate Joe. He is my favourite because he is not a very big horse, but he rides so big and confident that you think he is a big!

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I like to play netball as well as swimming.

Most people don’t know this about me: I have Arachnaphobia and my favourite movie is “Minions” Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? The rider I look up to the most is Nicole Bester.

She won both Champs of Champs in one year and that is amazing to accomplish! And she sets a brilliant example.

Who is your equitation instructor? Enid Norton.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Bigger is Better”

JESSI WESSELS Age: 16.

School: Upington High School.

What are your goals for the year?

To be the best I can be and hopefully be in the Top 3 of The Champion of Champions competition for both 3 and 5 gaited.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? BRT Street Assignment. He is a one in a million horse and he honestly make me feel like we can do anything. He gives me so much confidence and he is the best partner in crime anybody can ask for. He has a heart of gold and puts everything he has out there. He helped me accomplish my wildest dreams and there will never be a horse that will take his place in my heart.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? The Last Remembrance. He was my first Three-Gaited horse and had me in tears on more than one occasion.

When he started competing in the single harness division, he was an instant success and I am sure he will be a South African Champion soon.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? When I am not riding I am either on the netball court, in the swimming pool, playing tennis or having fun on the Orange river with my friends.

Most people don’t know this about me: I love to be at home, relaxing with my family, friends and my dogs.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Marale Hoft. We attended the same school and she has shown me that it does not matter where you come from, you can still be the best if you work hard and do not take no for an answer. When she commits to something there is nothing that will hold her back and prevent her from reaching her goal. She has passion, determination and she absolutely loves what she is doing.Who is your equitation instructor? Martin L Pienaar.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Jessi – Make it Happen now or watermelons honey”

CHRISTIAAN THEUNISSEN Age: 16.

School: Oakdale Agricultural High School What are your goals for the year?

To live my dream which is to become a trainer one day.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why?

Oakalash Handsome Private. Because we grew up together and he gives me the greatest feeling when I get on his back to start riding.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe... The perfect picture.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? I love to practice for Tug Of War in my spare time.

Most people don’t know this about me: I prefer performance riding above equitation.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Liza Gerber, because she helped me a lot when I started riding equitation.

Who is your equitation instructor? Jacques Wiggens.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Attitude!!!”

MENIQUE OLIVIER Age: 17.

School: Parys High School.

What are your goals for the year?

To be part of the next world cup team and to have good performance classes.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? The one and only Big French, because he can do a perfect test and he can compete in a championship.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Ultimate Joe, the vibe of the crowd is an amazing experience.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? Studying really hard to try and become a vet.

Most people don’t know this about me: I love white Kit Kats and I enjoy hunting.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Surprisingly my answer is Dejane Poil, she sits so correctly, with the use of significant aids to get the best performance out of her horses.

Who is your equitation instructor? Elra Tonkin-Biering.

Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Sit reg maar ‘ry’ nogsteeds jou perd”

MILA OLIVIER Age: 15 School: Bloemhof Girls’ High School What are your goals for the year? Being a good captain for my team at the 2019 Saddle Seat Competition that is held in USA. Winning two classes at the 2019 World’s Biggest Open Air Show that is held in Bloemfontein, SA. Being in the Top 10 Athletics at my school.

Which is your favourite horse you ever rode and why? My Three-Gated horse, Nite of All. He is high-headed and has a nice motion.

Which is your favourite horse you have ever seen performing and why? Definitely Braveheart Warrior, because he is a legend in the five-gated division.

When I’m not riding horses I’m...? ...playing netball, action netball, athletics (javelin) and spending time with my friends and family.

Most people don’t know this about me: My favorite color is yellow.

Which equitation rider do you most look up to, current or past, and why? Zandri Snyman, she is one of the best equitation riders and has won a few championships in her life. The thing about Zandri is that she didn’t win and get in the Protea team without doing anything, she worked hard to become one of the best young riders in the history of South African Saddle Seat.

Who is your equitation instructor? Charl Oosthuysen Tell us the one thing they say the most: “Hakke af!”

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By Roving Reporter

GEORGE BORCHERDS

I

n 1977, at the very young age of 8, George Borcherds was introduced to horse riding. After a month, he participated in a farmers day show in the town of Nieu Bethesda. From that day onward, when he held his first ribbon, he could not be stopped and participated in the Agricultural Horse Shows of the neighboring towns.

His uncle, Chris Borcherds gave him his first horse, a Boerperd named Philip as a gift and George was then well on his way showing with Philip.

Mr. Fransie van der Merwe, known as Oom Fransie, on the neighboring farm noticed the potential of George’s horsemanship and invited him to join his team of riders. Oom Fransie had Boerperd and Saddlebred horses and took young riders in to show his horses. He was very successful with his selection of horses and riders. He was well known and loved amongst the Boerperd and Saddlebred community. George learned a lot as a junior from Oom Fransie and was very competitive throughout his school career.

In 1986, he received his one thousandth prize for showing and riding Saddle Seat Equitation at horse shows all over South Africa.

In 1988, Nicky Keeve, George Borcherds, Irene van der Westhuizen and Gertrud Swanevelder were selected to represent South Africa for the inaugural International Team competition against the USA Team competing in the town of Graaff-Reinet in South Africa.

During that international competition, the USA Team coach Lillian Shively invited George for some further training. He told her that he would love to, but first had to do his military duties as required in those days, so he went to the Mounted Police in 1988.This experience had a big impact on his success coaching his riders later.

Then the unexpected happened, which changed his life forever.

Lillian Shively wrote a letter to the Police force and they sent George to Lillian (De Lovely Farms in the USA) in 1989. He came back to work as a policeman and he later became a detective until 1994.

During that period, he started giving horse riding lessons in his spare time and did a few shows with those riders, with much success. In 1994, he was approached by Mr. WJ van Bergen to come and do some full time horse training at his place, Wimco Stables in Douglas, where he was employed permanently

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coaching his kids Trude Mari, Jouke and Rossouw van Bergen in Saddleseat Equitation. They all received SA National Protea team colours. During that time, he also trained Karen Swanepoel, Chanene Rossouw, Patrick van Der Heever and many more who also received SA National Protea team colours.

In 1997, Whitney Singer from the USA won the National Morgan Horse Youth of the Year contest and a trip anywhere in the world for one month to represent the American Morgan Horse. She ended with George in Douglas, South Africa at Wimco Stables. George, Whitney and her mother Gayle Singer were the ambassadors for the competitions between the Morgan Horse and the Cape Boerperd and SA Boerperd teams in the years to follow. In 2000, the Cape Boerperd team against the Morgan Horse team in New England, Massachusetts, USA, won gold with George as the team coach. In 2012, the SA Boerperd team against the Morgan Horse team in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, won silver with George as the team coach. This opened up a lot of doors for many riders and gave them an experience of a lifetime!

In 1995 and 1997, George was chosen as the SA National Coach for the international competition against Namibia, winning gold both times. In 1998, he was the SA National Team coach for the International World Cup competition in Paarl, South Africa, bringing back the 5-gaited gold and the 3-gaited silver medals. He was also the coach of 5-gaited SA National team that competed at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indiana USA in September 1998.

In 2002, Mr. Junior Smith approached him from Juhantha Stables in Wellington, to come and work there full time to do the same as he did with the van Bergen kids. He trained Hanlo and Tharine Smith, who also became members of the SA National Protea Team.

SA Boerperd & Morgan competition

George & Shall O’lee Reserve Champion Fine Harness Bloemfontein

George and Louw Borcherds

In 2004, George’s lifelong dream came true and he bought his very own farm and started with sheep, cattle and horses.

George Borcherds Stables is where he trained horses and riders like Lindsay Owen, Alex van Der Watt (the first ever rider to win both the three- and five-gaited Champion of Champions in one year), Claudia Liebenberg, Elana Deacon, Rykie Fourie, Heinrich Human and Wilmarie Human, Elizabeth van Der Bijl, Zilike de Jager and Iané Ferreira and many more, all to achieve the highest award named the SA National Protea Team.

For the last 10 years, he has focused more on breeding, mostly managing Newline Saddle bred stud’s breeding for Dr. Ross Millin. George in partnership with Dr. Ross has bred some extraordinary horses like the very first ASHF winner, Newline Perfect Style and Grace, and The Prototype, the SA Saddlebred National Champion, to name a few. In August of 2013, he attended an Equine Reproductive Ultrasound and Equine Embryo Transfer Clinic at Ramona, CA in USA. E George has indeed had a big impact on breeding all over

George and Rouxle’

George and Iane Ferreira

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SA working with many breeders like Mountain ViewStud, Studcor Stud and Marani Stud to name a few.

In 2010, George Borcherds and Dr. Ross Millin started the very successful “African Saddle Horse Futurity”, which is every breeders dream! The competition that pays the highest prize money of any Saddle Horse competition in South Africa. This year will be the 11th. ASF Stallion Auction with the best stallions in South Africa!

A few highlights in George Borcherds judging career: •

2011: SA National Hackney Pony Championship, Robertson SA.

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2012: Saddle Seat World Cup International Competition, Parys SA.

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2013: US Saddle Seat International Invitational, Fulton MO, US.

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2014: US Morgan Grand National Horse Show, Oklahoma US.

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2015: SA Saddle Horse National Championship Bloemfontein SA.

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2016: Hackney Horse National Championship, Beaufort Wes, SA.

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2016: SA National Hackney Pony Championship, Robertson SA.

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2018: SA Boerperd National Championship, Parys SA.

George made a few international riders’ dreams come true over the years, like Samantha Mae, Acacia Chervier, Allie Williams, Breanna Chelsea van Rooyen and Catriona Kozijn all from Canada. Lauren Osborne from USA, Isabelle Ronchetti from Switzerland and Kay Rechten from Germany. All trained and competed under George Borcherds Stables at horse shows in SA.

George and Sir Willam’s Knight Perfect Style and Grace.

ASF Weanling Champion 2011

Kay Rechten from Germany

Catriona Kozijn from Canada

George has successfully trained 23 National Springbok or Protea Riders, who can all testify to his unique way of working with every rider as an individual. He really knows every rider and will always have his or her best interest at heart! He did much more than coaching equitation.

George has helped many riders with a dream but a lack of support or finances to achieve their dreams. He always makes a plan to give them the best shot he can, whether it was a catch ride, a horse or sometimes borrowing a horse from someone else, he always makes a plan. He would rather give his riders the chance to ride one of his best horses than riding the horse himself, even though he knows he can win the championship.

There is nothing that pleases him more than helping a rider making a dream a reality.

Lauren Osborne from USA

Allie Williams from Canada

One of his greatest talents is to turn any performance, difficult, young or plain horse into an Equitation pattern horse and sometimes in limited time, to help out a rider with no horse for the Equitation Trials. George never gives up on a horse with potential, no matter what.

We as clients and friends all are very grateful for all your time, patience, help, life lessons, jokes, teasing (well sometimes not so much…) and inspiration in our lives. No words can ever describe how much he means to each one of us!!! We all wish him the very best for his new life at Corner Stone Farms in the USA and we know that America is gaining a wonderful trainer, breeder and coach!

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My Mom, Barb Hendrickson and I at my 50th birthday party during the Southern Saddlebred Fall Finale in 2018

Blackwatch Magic at Blue Ridge 2018

SPOTLIGHT ON:

BETH BIDON

What is your full name?

Elizabeth Bidon. My last name always gets mispronounced; everyone wants to say it like the former Vice President, it is actually pronounced (Bid-ON) or (Beh-Dawn).

Where were you born and raised?

I was born and Raised in Wayzata, Minnesota.

Where did you go to school?

I graduated from Wayzata High School; then attended the University of Minnesota, and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the Carlson School of Management.

After college I went to work at a Minneapolis Company that specialized in Commercial Lease Negotiations, Tenant Representation and Project Management where I worked for 8 years. For the last 20 years I have been working for some of our family businesses - managing automotive service repair franchises and various commercial real estate properties.

What was your first exposure to horses?

How did you get involved with Saddlebreds/ Hackneys in particular? Please mention any memorable moments growing up riding – special horse/pony, stories, etc.

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I don’t recall this but my mom told me that when I was a toddler, we lived near a house that had horses and I’d always sneak over to see the horses. One time she was panicked because she couldn’t find me after she went inside the house for a moment… and sure enough, she went over to the neighbor’s barn and there I was – in a stall laying in the bedding.

When I was around 5, I couldn’t wait to get the Sunday paper and look through the Want Ads to see the horses for sale. I’d circle the ones I was interested in and ask my mom to call and inquire. They were usually quarter horses or Arabians, but I was not picky! She then figured she should try to get me into some riding lessons and found a place called Fortuna Farm in Medina, Minnesota where I then started weekly hunt seat lessons. I did that for a while and also joined 4H. One of the field trips we went on was to North Ridge Farm located in Wayzata, Minnesota which was down the road from Fortuna. I had never seen such beautiful creatures in my life – I didn’t know much about Saddlebreds so I subscribed to Saddle and Bridle Magazine!

In 6th grade I reconnected with Lana Gilpin, whom I had known in kindergarten, and she brought me to a local

Blackwatch Magic at Blue Ridge 2018

boarding barn that had Morgans. The owner would let you lease them monthly and we would go to the small Western Saddle Club Association shows on the weekends.They only ever offered two saddle seat classes every show (equitation and pleasure), but I didn’t care – I got to ride. So, from the age of 11-12 I leased horses at this local barn. When I was 12, the owner of the barn bought a Saddlebred that was headed to the kill pen. He was 6-year-old Golden American Saddlebred and I instantly connected with him. My parents purchased him from the owner and he was officially my first horse – Mack’s Golden Lucky. He was broke to ride somewhat and we both learned from each other over the next 3 years.

At the age of 15, Lana introduced me to James Wallen with whom she had her horse in training. We then moved Lucky to James Wallen Stables where I first experienced the Minnesota Saddlebred Show Circuit where we were very successful in the Country Pleasure Division. In 1985, we purchased a pleasure horse from Paul Priebe. Over the next year, my mother and Paul hit it off and became the best of friends and thus begun our Saddlebred journey with Priebe Stock Farms. It was there that I learned to ride anything (of course I was a teenager then). Anyone

who knew Paul knows it was not unusual for him to throw me up on something that he just got in and knew nothing about… although his approach was somewhat out of the ordinary, it did teach me to ride different types of horses and STAY ON. Out of all the horses we owned while at Priebe’s my favorite was Bi-Mi Dante (named H.P when we owned him). And of course, CH Havana Cabana and CH Gold Bullion, but those 2 were more my mothers. We then had horses with Hollow Haven for a couple years and it was with Andy & Lynda that I experienced one of my greatest thrills – winning the very first English Country Pleasure Championship at Louisville in 1994 with CH Havana Cabana. Mom then won the first County Pleasure Driving Championship at Louisville with him in 1995, also under the direction of Hollow Haven.

We have owned several nice horses over the years, but my heart horse will always be Big Man on Campus… he and I just connected. I think maybe because we shared a lot of the same issues - anxiety, physical limitations, etc. At the end of the day - How do I put this – I knew when I bought him that he was never destined for a life of blue ribbons – there was just something about him. What’s important to me is having

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Anne Neil, Mom & I at Blue Ridge in 2018

My son, Jackson

fun, being able to share this all with my mom and enjoying the horse(s) that you’re riding.

How (and when) did you meet your significant other?

I am currently engaged to Mario Russo, whom I have known for 12 years as an acquaintance through work. Two years ago, he sent me a “wave” on FB Messenger, asked me on a date and the rest is history. I knew there was something special about him as he was the first guy to go to horse show that didn’t think all the horses looked the same..LOL A little bit of history – when you were married, your children, etc.

I have a 14-year-old son name Jackson from a previous marriage that is the light of my life and makes me laugh every day. At 14, he is over 6 feet tall and although many want him to play basketball, football is his sport. Unfortunately, so are video games. He is very supportive of my horses and does enjoy coming to a show or two. He is a great kid, very smart, funny, caring and I am one lucky mom!

Would you like to share information about your family?

My mom and dad have supported in the horses me every step of the way for over 45 years. My mom got involved when we moved to Priebe’s and has been very successful in her own right – She has been in the winner’s circle at Louisville 7 times – not too shabby. Although she doesn’t

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show anymore, she is my biggest fan and my best friend. My father Steve Hendrickson doesn’t get enough credit as he is the man behind the scenes that makes it all possible for mom and I to enjoy our passion. He gets it, as his passion has always been collecting classic cars, although he is quick remind us that they don’t come with a monthly board and training bill.

What horse(s)/Ponies do you currently show and in what divisions?

Currently we are with Anne Neil and Blythewood Farms. If I were to list all of the great things about this woman and her business we would be here for days. When I was younger, I remember seeing the ads in the various publications and thinking – wow – I wonder what it would be like riding with Blythewood.

Well, mom got a wild hair and called me one day saying she’d like to show on a different circuit and how about that barn in Tennessee? I about fell on the floor and before I could respond and tell her she was nuts; she had called Anne. Anne welcomed us with open arms in 2014 and we love being a part of the Blythewood family.

I currently show Blackwatch Magic in Adult Show Pleasure.

I also have Rare Back, and this is my first year showing him in Park Classes, having the time of my life I might add. I also

Rare Back at Southern Saddlebred Spring Fling 2019

My Fiancé, Mario Russo and I at the 2019 MSHA Awards Banquet

have my own Saddlebred in Minnesota at Westwood Farm with Jay Wood. He helps keep me legged up and I enjoy going to the local shows up there as well. I am extremely grateful to my parents for supporting me in the sport which I love – even at 50 years old.

What has been your most memorable show ring moment thus far?

Winning the very first English Country Pleasure Championship at Louisville in 1994 with CH Havana Cabana.

What has been your biggest challenge to overcome?

I believe a huge part of showing is mental and sometimes I get in my own way – too much in my own head. I am trying not to overthink so much – in riding and in other aspects of my life.

What are your goals for the future?

Continue to raise my son to be a responsible and respectable man and to ride until my joints eventually give out – I’m hoping I’ll have another 10 years left.

What advice would you offer to others starting out on the “horse show adventure?”

There are going to be many highs and lows and you need to roll with the punches… However, the minute you stop having fun, it’s time to find another sport.

Quick facts: Favorite Food: Spaghetti & Meatballs Favorite band/music/singer: Soundgarden Favorite Movie: Best in Show One thing you couldn’t live without: Coffee One thing you wish didn’t exist (or you could “take it or leave it”): Laundry Favorite Horse Show and why: Southeastern Charity – I love the grounds and where Anne’s stalls are – you can sit and still see the show!

Favorite destination: Always wanted to go to Alaska and am finally getting the opportunity this August.

What’s one thing no one knows about you?

I am a complete numbers nerd; I have a phobia about driving on Interstates and I know quite a bit about cars.

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By Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer

ALLISON DEARDORFF

Judge of the 2019 South African National Championship Horse Show Can you give us a little background?

My dad, Don, is a horse trainer and my grandpa, Willard, was an avid American Saddlebred breeder starting in the 1950’s, so I have been involved with horses since I was born. My dad bought me a Welsh pony named Blondie when I was two-years-old. I showed her in lead line, and also rode her in parades for the next few years. By the time I was eight, I had a Saddlebred and a Morgan show horse. Throughout my junior exhibitor career, I had the opportunity to show numerous horses in all divisions. My dad and grandpa were breeding a large number of horses each year, so in my teens I would start my own colts and get as many of them to show ring as I could. I was also able to catch ride horses for other trainers at shows on the west coast as well as Louisville. My parents also supported my equitation career and gave me the opportunity to ride with Nancy Becker and Lillian Shively.

After High School I wasn’t sure if I was going to be a horse trainer or not, but I still chose to attend William Woods University so that I could show horses easily while deciding

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what I wanted to do with my life. Though I majored in Political Science and Spanish, while in school, I worked at Virgil Helm Stables as well as Callaway Hills. After interning in Washington D.C., the summer before my senior year, I made the decision that office work wasn’t for me and decided to pursue a career in horse training. I went to work for John T. Jones after graduation. I worked there for a couple years before returning home to Oregon to work with my Dad. What is your current involvement and day-to-day routine with the horses?

We work about 50 horses daily. Over 30 of these are client horses and the rest our own young horses. I am responsible for working a large number of them (which is a mix of the client horses and colts). My dad, Don Deardorff, and our assistant, Erin Cummings, and I all share training duties. Most of our clients are amateur riders with a few junior exhibitors. My dad and I both teach our riders.

Though we do not have a large lesson program, I also teach a few outside lessons per week. During the summer

A FEW OF YOUR FAVORITE THINGS: Favorite Horse Show: The Shelbyville Horse Show All-time Favorite Horse Show: The Cow Palace in San Francisco, CA. The ASB classes were held between Rodeo events. You’d be showing and they’d literally be loading bulls into the bucking chutes during the class.

Favorite Place to Visit: Santorini, Greece (Marc and I got married there in 2016) Favorite Food: Lobster Mac & Cheese Favorite Quote: “To do more for the world than the world does for you, that is success.” -Henry Ford If you could have a horse show theme song what would it be: I am big Britney Spears fan, so naturally my horse show theme song is Work Bit**.

1996 USA Saddle Seat World Cup Team that competed against South Africa at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Allison and Blondie showing in leadline in 1984, led by her father, Don.

months, we travel with a handful of horses to show on the Kentucky circuit through Louisville. A few years ago, we bought a farm in Versailles, so we have our place to stay in the summers now.

What made you decide you wanted to become a judge?

Having been involved in the Saddlebred industry since before I can remember, becoming a judge just always seemed like something I would eventually do. I always joke that judging is natural for me. In all seriousness, for me judging is a way to give back to the industry that has done so much for me throughout the years. Additionally, judging has made me a better and a more conscientious exhibitor, trainer and instructor. It is definitely a thankless job at times, but it is something that I take very seriously and take a lot of pride in doing my best.

How old were you when you first started judging?

I started judging Academy and schooling shows in my early 20’s. I didn’t get my USEF judging cards until I was about 30.

What are some of the most memorable judging jobs you have had?

Obviously, Louisville was very memorable! Otherwise, I think my most memorable job was my first USEF show.

It was the Colorado Fall Charity and I am thankful to the show committee for giving a new judge a chance. Of course, at the time I thought I had everything figured out, but I was so nervous before the first performance that I forgot my glasses and couldn’t read any of the numbers. I confided in the ringmaster who thankfully helped me get the numbers in a timely manner. After that, I got Lasik Eye Surgery, so forgetting my glasses is not an issue anymore.

What was it like to judge the World’s Championship Horse Show?

Judging the WCHS was literally a dream come true for me.

As a kid, I would attend the show every year. Even before I started showing there (I was ten-years-old the first time I showed at Louisville), I always pictured myself standing in the middle as a judge. It combines two of my favorite things…American Saddlebreds and dressing up! In

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Allison and Undulata’s GQ, owned by Sandra Gallagher.

fact, I am pretty sure I had half my evening gowns picked before I even got my judge’s cards. That being said, I felt very honored to actually be standing in the middle as a judge and especially with such an esteemed and respected panel. I was, however, more nervous than I thought I would be when the show first started. Once I got into a rhythm though, it was definitely the most fun I have ever had judging. How lucky was I to have a front row seat to greatest horse show in the World!

You were the youngest female ever on a panel (for full judging) at WCHS – what does that mean to you?

I was surprised to find this out actually, considering I am not that young! Of course, I am proud to be the youngest female judge, however I also think that means as an industry we need to encourage more young people to pursue their judge’s cards, both male and female. When I first got my USEF judge’s cards, finding horse shows willing to hire me wasn’t always easy. I reached out to almost every horse show manager in the country for the first few years. Fortunately, there were always a couple that ended up giving me a job which gave me the experience and confidence I needed to be able to judge larger and highly competitive shows. It is important for shows to give new and/or young judge’s the

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chance to get the experience needed as well as to make it worth going through the process of getting the cards and sustaining them year after year.

Do you think judging has changed over the years…are judges looking for horses to fit different criteria than they were 10 or 20 years ago?

I don’t know if what judges are looking for in horses has changed as much as the horses, trainers, exhibitors and overall turnout have evolved over the years. Overtime everything in the world changes. Fashion, technology, cars, etc. all go through trends and styles and have to evolve with the current wants and needs of the people. Though our industry is deep in tradition, evolution is inevitable and vital to stay relevant and flourish in times of change. Judging should progress with the industry.

What class or division is your most favorite to judge?

I don’t have a specific favorite class or division to judge.

My favorite type of class to judge is one with of course, quality horses performing at their best but also, the classes where every exhibitor is riding to win with confidence in themselves and their horses.To me, this type of class is what makes a horse show. It also makes me earn my keep as a

Allison judging the World’s Championship Horse Show in 2018.

Allison and her husband, Marc, along with many of their close friends and family, in Santorini, Greece for their rehearsal dinner.

judge since there is a number of entries that could win the blue, but it is exciting and fun to judge from start to finish.

Fortunately, there were plenty of these classes at Louisville last year.

think it is a very special opportunity to have judged the WCHS and the SA National Championships less than a year apart. Needless to say, I am counting down the days until I get on the plane!

What class can be the most difficult to judge?

This is a tough question…I am going to say the 10-andunder walk-and-trot division. They are all so cute, and working so hard, that I want to give them all first.

This year the other American judge is Matthew Roberts. He and I got to judge Louisville together last year. I am looking forward to judging this show with him as well.

You are judging the South African National Championships in April? Can you tell me a little about that?

I am super excited to judge the South African National Championships. I have never been to South Africa (I was on the World Cup Team in 1996 when it was in Kentucky and in 1998 the competition was there, but I was the alternate that didn’t travel).

I have heard such wonderful things about the South African horses, trainers and exhibitors throughout the years. Not to mention, I love to see the pictures and videos of their top horses and I am very grateful to finally get to see them in person.

Traveling is my pastime (and also how I spend all my money), I love getting to judge nice horses and getting know others who love American Saddlebreds, so this feels like a perfect trip and opportunity to carry out one of my goals. My husband, Marc, is going to go with me and we are going to stay a few extra days to explore the country. I also

I am currently studying up on the SA show rules and procedures and know there will be some differences in that respect. However, the biggest difference for me is that I hear I will not get to wear any of my evening gowns from the WCHS again as the show schedule isn’t set up for the formality. That being said, I have a closet full of gowns I am willing to loan out to future WCHS judges!

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One of the HOOF campers gets up close and personal with an Louisville Equestrian Center lesson horse.

By Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer

HORSES OFFERING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE FUTURE

T

here’s something about the outside of a horse that’s good for the inside of a man.”

-Winston Churchill

We’ve all heard this saying before, and any horse person would unfalteringly agree that no truer words were ever spoken. It was with these words that the vision of the HOOF KY program first came to light.

Horses Offering Opportunities for the Future is a program that was designed to allow inner-city and at-risk youth to connect to horses and let horses work their magic. Diane Fredricks, a lifelong horse person first had the idea to give the opportunity to let the horses work their magic in the lives of those that may not otherwise have the opportunity.

“She, along with her daughters, rode; and it provided a type

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of therapy that no one else could give her,” explained Anna Simpson, who serves as a riding instructor at the Louisville Equestrian Center, where the academies take place, as well as a member of the Board of Directors for HOOF KY. The program first was developed in 2010.

“Since 2010 we have partnered with The Louisville Equestrian Center and have hosted 18 academies over the past nine years with a total of 30 kids at each academy... for a total of over 540 kids whose lives we have impacted,” exclaimed Simpson. They are currently hosting two programs each summer, and they hope to expand to three this upcoming season, so they can continue to expose as many kids as possible to the healing nature of the horse. The academies run much like a summer camp, where the youth spend the day at the barn, rotating through stations where they learn riding, equine education, and barn management skills, along with games, crafts and more.

These camper’s lives were changed because of the HOOF camp.

HOOF KY works with local Louisville, Kentucky-area foster kids and trauma-stricken youth to allow them to connect to horses in a way they’ve never had the opportunity. “Horses have the ability to touch the human spirit in ways not found in other relationships. They can break down emotional walls and barriers of distrust, isolation, and manipulation as the young participants interact with and take stewardship of the horses,” said Simpson. “It is our hope that with the HOOF KY participants, the program will lead to positive life choices and a productive life style.”

They have partnered with The Cabbage Patch settlement House, which is an inner-city program in Louisville that has the same mission as HOOF KY, and they have also had foster children from Uspiritus and Sunrise Children’s Services that attend each year.The attendees range from 9-18 years of age, and both boys and girls can attend.

Over the years, Simpson has seen kids that have gone through the program return as graduates, and some are now counselors themselves with Cabbage Patch. Watching them come full circle has been rewarding for Simpson, who has been involved with the program since its inception.

“We had a young boy attend last year from the foster system, these kids sometimes get to have weekend passes to go home for good behavior, they get checked out on Fridays and return

on Sundays,” recalled Simpson. “The staff from his facility said that this kid was hard to get along with, had behavioral issues and a terrible attitude most time, and that he rarely got to go home on the weekends.The entire week of HOOF KY camp he was agreeable, participated and answered questions, was eager to ride each day, and on top of that; the staff could see a change in his behavior from day one! They couldn’t get over how it was affecting his life so quickly! Thursday evening came and he had earned himself a pass to go home for the weekend due to his good behavior, but you know what, he turned it down, he didn’t want to miss the last day of riding and being with the horses. An opportunity he said he may never have again. This young man had a chance to get out of ‘lockdown’ to see his family and he chose the horses! This is what type of impact we are hoping to have on more and more of our local youth!”

The impact that the HOOF KY program is making on the lives of youth throughout Louisville is leaving a lasting impact, and it’s something that Simpson has said has changed her life forever.

“I love what I do as a riding instructor, but this program puts an entirely different meaning to my job. To see how these young people connect and relate to the horses is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. Of course, we all want to train a horse or rider to a world title, but providing this opportunity to these kids makes everything I do complete, and I really feel as though I am helping to make a difference in these kids’ lives!”

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Two of the riders at one of the 2016 Summer Camps learn to ride independently.

Two campers at one of the 2018 camps watch and await their turn.

Simpson and the others involved with the program are looking to not only enrich the lives of their campers, but they hope to give them opportunities in the horse industry in the future as well.

“Bud Willimon comes every year during the academies and talks with the boys about jobs in the shoeing business. He tells them if they ever need a job to come see him, and he offers to help teach these young men a trait to provide for themselves when they get older! It’s small things like this we are hoping to help guide our local youth into impacting positive perspectives and life choices.”

programs, and in the long-term they hope to have summerlong programs and then have yearly scholarships to offer to the outstanding participates to ride year-round and then to eventually help with vocational and job placement in the horse business.

While they have big dreams and goals for the program for the future, it’s no surprise that it’s quite costly to run the program. They raise approximately $28,000 each year, and each camp’s expenses runs right at $11,550 a week. In order to raise money for the program, they conduct several major fundraisers throughout the year.They run a large silent auction in conjunction with the KASPHA State Championship Horse While not every youth that comes through the program Show in September, and their most successful endeavor has will develop a lifelong love for the horse, it’s clear that an been the HOOF KY Horse Show at the Kentucky State overwhelming percentage of them gain so many positive life Fairgrounds. Last year was the first year the show was held lessons from the program.They are learning responsibility, self- there, and it was a rousing success.They sold 130 stalls, with a confidence, restraint, respect, kindness, and so much more. huge academy session, and a full line up of 28 performances These attributes are also preparing the participants to make classes.They were able to raise $10,000 from the show. positive choices in their everyday lives.

They will be hosting the show again this summer on Saturday “Many of the attendees experience low self-image and a July 20th at the Kentucky State Fairgrounds in the covered declining sense of personal empowerment, hiding behind outdoor arena. They continue to expand their goals for the the defenses of negative behaviors, manipulation, and future, and while they hope to continue offering additional isolation. HOOF KY understands that you can’t fool a horse; academies, so they can expose even more youth to the consequently, our participants quickly learn that they must amazing equines, they don’t want to limit the program to just EARN the companionship of a horse which can positively their area either. “I believe other barns in other cities could impact their perspective and their life choices.” easily get a program such as ours going,” said Simpson.

The HOOF KY Board of Directors continue to work hard to raise money to help send Kentucky youth to these

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For more information about HOOF KY and to support the program visit their website www.hoofky.org.

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Rhythm Latte & Hadley Novak at St. Louis Charity in 2018 winning the Opportunity English Pleasure Saddle Seat Championship

JUNIOR EXHIBITOR PROFILE

HADLEY NOVAK What is your full name and how old are you?

Hadley Mae Novak, and I am 12 years old.

Where do you go to school/what year are you in school?

I attend Divine Redeemer Lutheran School and I’m in 7th grade.

What would you like to be when you grow up?

I’m not sure yet, but maybe an interior designer.

Name your family/Siblings/pets: I have my mom and my dad, and my step-dad. I have a dog named CC, 3 cats and 2 horses, Callie (Malibu Rum) and Daisy (She’s Packin’).

When did you first start riding? How did you get involved with horses?

Forever :) I was on the back of a horse when I was very little. My mom, Sheri Brandl, is a horse trainer so she had me ride with her when I was very little.

each week. Sometimes we practice patterns and ring positioning, & sometimes we work more on using the bridle.

What are some of your favorite horses you have shown?

Leroy! aka Rhythm Latte who is part Morgan and part Saddlebred. Also, CH Talkin’ to You & Miller Chill….I actually love every horse I’ve shown!

What horse(s) do you currently show and in what divisions?

I currently show Malibu Rum in Country Pleasure or Open English Pleasure and She’s Packin’ in Five-Gaited Show Pleasure.

What has been your most memorable riding moment thus far?

Definitely winning the UPHA Walk & Trot National Final at the Royal. The Royal is my favorite show!

Where do you ride?

I’ve always ridden with my mom at Equitate, LLC.

What has been your biggest challenge to overcome?

My biggest challenge has been learning how to use a double bridle.

How long have you been showing?

Almost my whole life.

What are your riding goals for the future?

To win at Louisville.

How often do you ride?

4 times a week.

How has riding American Saddlebreds shaped your life and made you who you are today?

Riding and showing has allowed me to travel to new places.

Also, it has given me the opportunity to make some great friends here at my barn.

What’s a typically practice session for you look like?

I typically ride in 2 private lessons and 2 group lessons

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Miller Chill & Hadley Novak at The American Royal in 2017 winning the UPHA Walk / Trot National Challenge Cup Final

QUICK FACTS: What’s the best place you have ever travelled to?

Mexico What is one place you would love to go?

Bora Bora What is your trainer’s favorite phrase or words of advice?

Step it up, Hadley!

What are your hobbies?

I like to ride my hoverboard, but mostly I like to spend time in the barn and ride.

What do you do in your free time for fun?

Spend time with my friends.

Do you have any nicknames?

Smadley What is your favorite food?

Pizza Favorite music, singer or band?

Taylor Swift Favorite Movie?

High School Musical What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?

Chocolate What’s one thing you wish you didn’t exist (or something you could live without)?

Homework What’s something no one knows about you?

I like to bake!

Anything else you would like to say?

I hope everyone has a great show season!

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RWC The Invincible & Sharon Wilson

WGC Top of The Mark x Arrowhead’s Fancy Smancy ..hopes to be registered as CRW Cuvée Claire.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

SHARON WILSON

Where were you born and raised?

Medford, Oklahoma. My dad was a wheat farmer. The only livestock we had were my brother’s show cattle.

Where did you go to school?

My entire education was received in Medford, Oklahoma.

There was only one building and all 250 students were in grades 1 thru 12 were in the one school.

What was your first exposure to horses?

A friend gave my sisters and I a Shetland pony when I was about 12 years old, but I really didn’t get serious about horses and riding until I was 52 years old. We had moved to North Carolina for my husband to do his Anesthesia residency at Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. I noticed right away the equine influence in this area!

How did you get involved with Saddlebreds/ Hackneys in particular?

When our son and daughter had graduated from high school and college I had time to do something for myself. I had

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friends, whose children, rode horses and decided I would like to take riding lessons. So Bob gave me the gift of riding lessons for Christmas and told me to find someplace to take the lessons. I had a friend, whose daughter rode at Cash Lovell in Winston-Salem.

Cash Lovell happened to be English instead of Western riding. Western is all I was acquainted with being from rural Oklahoma with Quarter Horses. I didn’t care which one I did, I was just excited to get the lessons! That is where I met Kathryn Rodosky Taylor. I was told to ask for her to be my riding instructor. Here we are 10 years later!! She now owns Landon Farm in Greensboro, North Carolina. I owe all my success to her! She is my trainer, friend and biggest supporter!

Any special horse stories growing up?

None really, except for the Shetland pony named Bambi that was too mean to ride. But we still loved him.

How (and when) did you meet your significant other?

Bob and I were high school sweethearts.

RWC The Invincible & Sharon Wilson at Kentucky Spring Premier 2019.

A little bit of history – when you were married, your children, etc.

We were married two years out of high school. It will be 43 years this August. During those 43 years Bob went to nursing school, nurse anesthesia school and medical school.

During this time, we raised two children and when he finished his residency, our daughter was a Junior in high school and our son was in 8th grade.

Tell us about your family: Our daughter Cassandra is married. She and her husband John, gave us our two grandsons, Xavier is 4 and Rylan is 1.

Our son Reece is married. He is finishing his Emergency Medicine residency in Rhode Island this June. He and his wife, Lauren, are moving back to North Carolina.

Some of your favorite horses/ponies?

I really don’t have favorites...my first show horse was Turn On The Heat (Julian). I showed him in Walk/Trot. I only had

him for a short time and he passed away. Dolly (You’re Looking Swell Dolly) was my first Country Pleasure shoe horse. She is now retired.

What horse(s)/Ponies do you currently show and in what divisions?

Currently.... The Invincible (Boomer)....Fine Harness.

Miss Bubblicious (Claret)...Show Pleasure Driving.

Leatherwood’s Lipstick Jungle (Cersei)...Country Pleasure Driving.

Arrowhead ‘s Fancy Smancy (Prada)…Five-Gaited and Kathryn Rodosky Taylor shows her.

CRW Chappellet (Titus)…Three-Gaited Pleasure Pony, He is only 3 years old. He was the first born in our breeding program.

Maribelle, my gray Welsh pony... Pleasure pony driving.

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Maribelle, the Welsh Pony, and Sharon Wilson at Kentucky Spring Premier 2019.

CRW’s Chappelett & Ashleigh Williams in his first Pleasure Pony class.

What has been your most memorable show ring moment thus far?

Last year when I qualified with Boomer in Ladies Fine Harness at Worlds!

What has been your biggest challenge to overcome?

I have had two strokes and have had to recover and push my way back in shape to ride again. But when you love something with all your heart, you do what it takes!

What are your goals for the future?

I want to get back into riding at some point. I haven’t been riding because of hip issues. I continue to strive every day to continue to get better with Boomer and my 3 mares driving. But most of all, just continuing to have a blast doing what I love. Also, to continue our breeding program, to have wonderful babies.

We have Titus, our 3 year old, 2 yearlings and this spring we had a filly born, whose daddy is Top Of The Mark and her mom is our Five-Gaited mare, Arrowhead’s Fancy Smancy (whose daddy is Wine, Women & Song). We are very excited about this baby girl!

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What’s the best place you have ever travelled?

We traveled to Italy last year. It was an amazing trip!

What is one place you would love to go?

The Kentucky Derby!

What are your hobbies?

Horses, horses, horses! My husband doesn’t ride, but he loves the breeding part of my horse passion. He loves collecting and drinking wine! He has a 1700 bottle wine cellar in the basement of our home.That is where our LLC got its name...his passion for Napa wines and my passion for horses.

CRW Wine & Equine...

What do you do in your free time for fun?

Visit the grandbabies and travel.

What’s a “typical day” for you from start to finish?

Hurry and get my errands run for the day so I can get to the farm and the horses.

Arrowhead’s Fancy Smancy with trainer, Kathryn Rodosky Taylor at Kentucky State Fair in 2017.

How frequently do you spend time at the barn?

3 to 4 days a week.

What was the name of your first horse/pony?

A Shetland pony named Bambi. And my first ASB was Turn On The Heat, (Julian).

Do you remember, what was the first horse or pony you showed? When was this?

ASB Turn On The Heat. 2008 What advice would you offer to others starting out on the “horse show adventure?”

First of all I would tell them it is never too late to start riding. Our school horses are the kindest creatures on earth. I would tell them if they are getting into showing they need to be very involved. Not only taking lessons and going to shows. But learn everything you can about what it takes to get your beautiful, precious horse into the ring. Everything from grooming, taking care of your equipment, tack and carts, if driving. Setting up for horse shows and anything else that will get you more involved in every aspect of our sport. Believe me, you will appreciate your trainers & grooms a whole lot more!!!!

Quick facts: Favorite Food: Southern comfort foods Favorite band/music/singer: Anyone Country Favorite Movie: No one favorite...

One thing you couldn’t live without: My husband!!!!!

One thing you wish didn’t exist (or you could “take it or leave it”): That’s a hard one....every experience shapes who you are!

Favorite Horse Show and why: Well, it’s not really a favorite one show, it’s showing on the Kentucky County Fair & Horse Show circuit to qualify for the Kentucky County Fair Class at Worlds in August!

Beautiful venues, just the nicest people and always wellrun shows!!

Favorite destination: Napa Valley California. We go every October after show season.

What’s one thing no one knows about you?

Or something people would be surprised to find out about you?

I’m pretty much an open book...

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The white gelding is also from Live and Let Live Farm Rescue.

Holding him is Morgan McKenney and Clark the dog.

“LLF Woody” from Live and Let Live Rescue, under the direction of Stephanie Marcelonis at CPM Stables.

By Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer

TRAINERS HELPING HORSES IN NEED

THE THHIN FUND AND UPHA CHAPTER 14 RESCUE CHALLENGE

L

uman Wadhams has been a professional horse trainer for more than 40 years. About four years ago, in the fall of 2015, Wadhams was prompted to do something to help support horses that were falling through the cracks. “The Vermont Humane Federation seized 14 horses (eight of which were considered emaciated, and one that ultimately died as a result of his ordeal), 20 dogs, six cats and ten ducks. I drove by this home daily and took note of the horses casually, but never realized what was going on right in front of me. The horses were blanketed, and while you would have liked to have seen large quantities of hay available to them at all times, there was SOME hay,” Wadhams recalled. “When the story broke about the seizure, I was shocked. How could this have happened? and what could I do to help?”

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As a member of the USEF and chairperson of the United Professional Horsemen’s Association for his chapter, Wadhams decided to bring an idea to his local UPHA Chapter 14 members. Chapter 14 includes Wadhams’ home state of Vermont, as well as Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Rhode Island. The UPHA has long had a wonderful program in place called the Benevolent Fund, that will financially contribute to professional horsemen/women who are in need, which prompted Wadhams to think about a way to create a similar fundraising effort on behalf of the horses. “Having some knowledge of how The United Way operates; I loosely patterned this program after that; we would raise funds, vet the area rescues and contribute financially to support their efforts,” explained Wadhams.

“LLF Zee” from Live and Let Live Rescue, under the direction of Spencer and Adriana Day of Society Hill Farm.

Taylor River Farm drew the Hackney Pony, “Sassy”.

“Juliette” from New England Equine Rescue, North. She is under the direction of Legacy Stables, Mike and Liz Murphy.

The fund was aptly named, Trainers Helping Horses in Need, or the THHIN Fund. The fund helps finance equine rescues from within the chapter that do real and actual good to save horses in dire need.

To obtain funding, existing horse rescues can apply for a grant from THHIN. The money is then made available to those that have a 501(C)3 charitable status and their further qualifications are reviewed by the THHIN Fund board. The Chapter voted unanimously to get behind this idea and the THHIN Fund was created! The first fundraiser was held in 2016 at the Spring Premiere Horse Show in W. Springfield, Massachusetts and raised $30,000. Since then, UPHA Chapter 14 has continued their fundraising efforts and have allocated funds in 2017 and 2018 to Central New England Equine Rescue and New England Equine Rescue, North. In total, this endeavor has already raised over $150,000.

“One problem facing almost every Equine Rescue we spoke to was not only having the financial support to care for and house the horses they are saving, but many of these horses had little or no training, making the possibility for adoption slim,” said Wadhams. “This was something, as a group of professional horse trainers, we could do

something about! Another meeting was called to order and The THHIN FUND RESCUE CHALLENGE was born.”

Fifteen trainers within UPHA Chapter 14 stepped up to the challenge. Each barn willing to host a rescue horse, and aid in its rehabilitation, led to the idea of a challenge.

Adding a little fun competition, the challenge placed one rescue with it’s barn. They are responsible for training and getting the horse or pony ready for adoption within the 90-day time frame. They are also responsible for posting videos on social media of the equine’s progress, so that donors and supporters can see the progress being made.

The culmination of the project will be an exciting rescue class at the UPHA Chapter 14 Spring Premiere Horse Show, where all entries will actually compete in the ring.

“The Rescue Challenge has been amazingly successful,” said Wadhams. “It has really struck a chord with people who care about the welfare of horses that have fallen on hard times. The trainers have gotten caught up in the spirit of the challenge and that has energized their sponsors. We have already had several horses adopted. In a few cases the trainers themselves have decided to give homes to these new friends. We think there will certainly be more who find new homes. It’s very impressive.”

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“SBR Elijah” from Saddlebred Rescue. He was drawn

by Denise Vespa Stables. SBR Elijah has already been adopted as a result of this program.

“Maple Hill Nuke” is from Maple Hill Farm Sanctuary and is under the direction of MonteRae Stables and trainer, Nikki Rae Woodworth.

The barns competing in the challenge are as follows: Braeburn Equestrian Center, Fairfield South, Phoenix Stables, Verrill Stables, Society Hill Farm, Cater Stables, Legacy Stable LLC, CPM Stables, Chase Farms, Denise Vespa Stables, TCB Training & Instruction, Taylor River Farm, Monterae Farm, Reindance Stables, and Luman Wadhams Stable.

Wadhams estimates that the challenge will raise another $50,000 in cash and from donated training expenses. While several horses are already being adopted out, before the challenge is even over, all horses will have a chance at a better future. “The horses that don’t get adopted will go back to the rescue they came from. They will be returning with a good foundation in their training that will make them much more adoptable,” explained Wadhams. “That’s the deal we made with the Rescues. We’ll take your horse that doesn’t have a clue about being a useful equine companion and return to you a horse that’s had a good start and will be fun for someone to share their life with.”

When asked why he thinks it’s important for training barns to recognize these horses in need, he admitted it was a difficult question to answer. “It’s not whether I think it’s important or not, it’s what the trainers that took on these horses think.

So why did they do it? I ask myself that question on a daily basis. I think first and foremost it’s because they have the skill to help out an animal that simply needs a chance. It’s a refreshing and rewarding way to give to a cause you think is worthwhile.”

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He admits the need is overwhelming, as the rescue challenge can only help a few lucky horses. What about the rest? “What we can do is raise awareness that most of these horses, with a little care and thoughtful training can become wonderful, useful friends for life.”

“As someone said, we want to “give them a chance at a second chance”.”

The future of the THHIN Fund is to continue its outreach to help equine rescues do their good and necessary work.

Wadhams is excited to see the Rescue Challenge class at the Spring Premiere Show, and says that if the participating trainers find that it’s worthwhile, he hopes to see them do it again in the future.

The rescue class, held after the last class on Friday, April 19th was decided to be a gymkhana class called, “The Great Wheelbarrow Race”.

“It’s meant to be something fun and is something all the rescue horses can do,” explained Elaine Gregory. “With such a varied group of entries (some don’t canter, and some pace) we needed to find something they could do as a group that would be fun for the spectators and participants.”

The race consists of a rider and horse combination, along with their teammate of a person pushing a wheelbarrow with a person in it. Together, they must race as a team,

The hackney pony mare, named “Maple Hill Suzannah” is ridden by Kasey Saccocia of Team Cater.

“LLF Shiloh” is from Live and Let Live Rescue and is pictured with assistant trainer Jessica Sebring aboard, along with Devon Garone and son, Brody.

connected by a rope they hold between them, and race to the finish line.

“We have purchased three wheelbarrows; one will be given to the winner of the race, and the other two will be auctioned off. Contestants will run in two horse heats until we are down to just two who will race for the big win.”

The horses ran in a head-to-head heat competition, and the winner of the event was Team Lu from Luman Wadhams Stable with the gray horse, Bunchie, who won two heats and the final face-off against Team MonteRae. The THHIN Fund Rescue Challenge was a huge success. In addition to the race, UPHA Chapter 14 also sold stickers for $5 to decorate each team’s wheelbarrow “race car” as an additional fundraiser.

As a direct result of the fifteen, Chapter 14 horse trainers, and their teams; eleven of the rescue horses have found their forever homes already. “We would like to thank ALL of our generous team sponsors for their support of the rescue horses while in training and also the following who donated their time, services and talent to our project; Lukens Horse Transportation, Dallys Malenfant, Shane Shiflet, Gary Saccocia, Caitlin Reason and Jillian Tsiplakis, Richfield Video, Polly Paintbrush, Kenyons Feed, Henniker Farm and Feed, And Cheshire Feed, Kevin Tomasko and Erin McCracken, and a host of others who are too numerous to list but whose efforts are so greatly appreciated.”

You can donate to the THHIN Fund by visiting their web site, at www.thhin.com and clicking on the “donate now” icon, or by sending a check to:

The THHIN Fund c/o Wadhams Stable 171 Applewood Rd Warren, VT 05674 For more information, e-mail thhin@gmail.com

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Baird and his fiancé, Andrea Athanasuleas before the Top 10 performances on The Voice, Season 14.

GETTING TO KNOW:

J

By Deveau Zubrod Kreitzer

PRYOR BAIRD

ust one short year ago, the name Pryor Baird wouldn’t have turned any heads. Say the name, and not many would acknowledge recognition.

But now, millions of people have not just heard his name, they are fans, after having seen him sing and compete on season 14 of The Voice.

Baird, just 36-years-old, grew up in Orcutt, California, with a very inauspicious childhood. He knew from a young age that he wanted to be a singer, and started touring and playing the blues when he was just fifteen. Both his parents were musically-inclined, and while his mother enjoyed the blues, his dad preferred more country and bluegrass music. Baird loved it all, and loved to combine the genres. He traveled the country, playing four to five shows a week until 2010, when he was 26-years-old and decided to pack up his guitars and head to Nashville,Tennessee.

Baird told the Santa Maria Sun last year that he had been working at the Far Western Tavern for forever. “I remember being in town playing music all over the place and seeing all these bands playing all over the place. And it was the same

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guys and the same bands playing the same bars and playing the same songs, week in and week out. That scared me to death. I said, “I don’t want to look back 20 or 30 or 40 years from now and be like, ‘What if I’d just done this, what if I’d just done that?’” So, literally, I called my dad and I said, “Dad, I’m moving,” and he said, “OK, where are you gonna go?” I said, “Well, I don’t know.” So, he said, “Well, why don’t you come over and we’ll talk about it.” He’s got a pool hall right there in Orcutt, and we had a few cocktails and he had a big map up on the wall. He put a blindfold on me, spun me around in a circle, and gave me a dart. He said, “Where you gonna go?” And I said it was either going to be Chicago, Nashville, or Austin. And the dart landed in Paducah, Kentucky, and he said, “Well I guess that’s close enough to Nashville, I guess that’s where you’re going.” And literally two weeks later I had sold everything I had, packed up what I needed, which was one suitcase, 10 guitars, an amplifier, and my bed. I had a 2003 Ford F150 pickup, I loaded it all in the back, put a tarp over the top of it, and said goodbye to my mom, sister, and drove down to my dad’s house to say goodbye to him, and he was standing there with a cooler and a suitcase. I said, “What are you doing?” and he said, “Well I’m going with you. I’m not

Andrea Athanasuleas celebrates her win in the 2018 Five-Gaited Amateur Ladies World’s Champion of Champions, alongside Shiflet Stables and Pryor Baird.

Baird and Athansuleas celebrate a successful 2018 World’s Championship Horse Show with Shiflet Stables.

going to let my son drive all the way across country and have a good old time all by himself. I want to go too.” I said, “All right,” so he jumped in the truck with me and we left that night and drove to Nashville.

Baird settled into Nashville, playing music, but eventually found himself as a project manager for a company that restored damaged homes. After seven years in Nashville, he found he had played more music while living in California, than after moving to Music City, U.S.A. He wanted to make his own music, but he had to make ends meet. Unfortunately, his passion had taken the backseat.

It was in Nashville that Baird met Andrea Athanasuleas. A long-time Saddlebred enthusiast, Athanasuleas has been in the industry for years, most recently known for her partnership with the five-gaited World’s Grand Champion contender, Honey Badger.

Athanasuleas and Baird met through his work, and he immediately knew there was a connection. “A tree fell on her house during Lexington Junior League Horse Show in 2016. I

was managing the project of removing the tree and fixing her house,” he explained. “After we met and sorted out the house stuff, I texted her and said,‘I know you have dinner plans tonight but afterwards, there is a ticket to the Vince Gill show at will-call for you. Show starts at 8. Don’t be late’. She was not late and we had a great time!”

Athanasuleas was one of the people that encouraged Baird to try out for The Voice, Season 14. She knew his talent and wanted him to pursue his dream and passion, knowing the world would be wowed with his voice. In the blind audition, Baird sang his own version of “Don’t Need No Doctor,” and the judges were in awe. Judge Adam Levine turned his chair early in the performance, and the other judges, Alicia Keys, Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson, turned their chairs as well, giving Baird a standing ovation.

Baird chose to be on Team Blake [Shelton] and the choice was a good one, as it seemed they clicked from the beginning.

“I feel like Blake and I have a lot in common. We both love country music. We both love to be outdoors, hunting, fishing, sitting around a campfire and having a good time. Blake’s

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Baird and Kaleb Lee perform on The Voice

Blake Shelton and Pryor Baird.

Baird and his fiancé, Andrea Athanasuleas before the Top 10 performances on The Voice, Season 14.

someone I would totally go hang out with,” Baird said in an interview with an online magazine in March, 2018.

radio tour going. I’m playing and touring a ton, while always working on the next record,” added Baird. He’s also planning a wedding with now fiancé, Athanasuleas, and of course, Baird had many amazing performances on The Voice, and he making time for some horse shows along the way. soon became a fan favorite. Week by week, Baird continued “My first horse show was Pro-Am 2017. I thought she was to win over the viewers, and soar through to the next rounds. crazy,” laughed Baird. “I thought the horses were absolutely With incredible performances, including “9 to 5” a Dolly beautiful. And also, big, brown and expensive. That’s when I Parton Song in Round 2, “Pickin’ Wildflowers” in the Top 12, realized I was going to need to sell a lot of records.” and Bob Seger’s “Night Moves” for the Fan pick. Baird made it all the way to the Top 8, with votes that kept him in the Top 6 He’s now been to many horse shows. “They all have one performers before singing for his life and being eliminated on thing in common - they all make me dizzy! Until they stop May 15, 2018, just one week before the finale. and reverse.”

Baird has been philanthropic since the beginning as well. He has given to the Wounded Warrior Project as well as Keeping the Blues Alive, which is a foundation for kids and schools to make sure the blues and music is still kept alive in children’s schools so they have that to listen to.

Over the past year, Baird has been working hard on writing songs and laying down tracks, to put together the EP that was released February 22nd, 2019. “I’m really proud of this EP. It was a really fun process and I learned a lot,” said Baird. “I got to work with some of the greatest musicians and one of the best producers in Nashville, which was pretty inspiring.”

“I’m working on promoting the new EP and hoping to get a

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Baird has also seen how the equine community came together for him, while competing on The Voice. Each week, social media exploded with words of encouragement, and Facebook and Instagram posts about voting for Baird were shared throughout the entire Saddlebred community. Baird was incredibly grateful for the support of his new far-extending family. He also played for a fundraiser at the World’s Championship Horse Show this past year, and is sure to be a fixture at Saddlebred shows throughout the country for many years to come.

Listen to Pryor Baird’s self-titled EP on iTunes.

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