Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

C O N N E C T IC U T

HORSE

DUDE RANCH VACATIONS

January/February 2019 connhorse.com $4

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOU

GAY CITY STATE PARK TRAIL GUIDE

GLASTONBURY HUNT CLUB FARM FEATURE

EBONY HORSEWOMEN LEND A HOOF

2

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

January/February 2019

Sally L. Feuerberg

contents

16

20

18

Stacey Stearns

Kelly McKenna

8

22

features 8

Dude Ranch Vacations

16

Joan Davis

A Love of Horses and a Love of Life

22

Gay City State Park Trail Guide

Good for the Soul

How to Choose the Right One for You

18

Glastonbury Hunt Club

Farm Feature

20

Horseperson Feature

Ebony Horsewomen

Horses in Hartford and So Much More

35

Nutmeg State Events Calendar

Lend a Hoof

in every issue 5

From the Publisher

30

Partners

39

The Neighborhood

7

Your Letters

35

Nutmeg State Events Calendar

42

Is This Your Horse?

Overherd: News in Our Community

38

This Olde Horse

24

4

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

From the Publisher

J

anuary mornings are more than

being with your horse. I’ve not yet suc-

advertising sales manager for Connecticut

a fresh start to the year — it’s as

ceeded in all of my plans in and outside

Horse, is that of all the horse people I’ve

if the world is waking up for the

the barn, but the mention of the word

had the pleasure to meet, no one has

very first time under the sunrise.

resolve, synonymous with popping corks

expressed any regrets about their time

There’s frost on the grass and fields as

around horses. There’s something to

still as if they were painted by a brush.

aspire to, but never to regret. It’s impos-

When you pry open the barn door,

sible to regret a ride, a wrong turn, or

quiet nickers greet you before a puff of

even a fall. I’ve learned from all three

steamy breath warms your face. It’s in

that no matter how rough a day, you’ll

quiet moments like these that time is

wake up the next day and want to do it

most precious.

all over again.

A new year often begins with reso-

So, throw on your coat (and an

lutions and goals. This could be the

extra layer or two) and head to the

year you finally find that horse, dust off

barn for a few hours. A day with a horse

the saddle again, or ride a horse for the

and countdowns, has a tendency to

very first time. Maybe you’ll finally

bring up the important things we really

jump that 3' 9" vertical that’s been star-

do want to achieve.

ing you down in the ring or simply

One thing I’ve found in almost a

spend more hours at the barn just

year of being the public relations and

is never wasted.

Here’s to many great rides in 2019!

Lara

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

5

Ride with Us! Competitive Rates & Great Service Call for a no hassle, free quote.

CON N EC T ICU T

HORSE vol. 4, no. 4 January/February 2019

ISSN 2378-5721

99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096 phone: (413) 268-3302 (voice/text) • connhorse.com Connecticut Horse magazine is an independently owned and operated all-breed, all-discipline equestrian publication for the Nutmeg State.

Mortality & Major Medical . Farm Packages Horse Associations and Clubs . Directors & Officers Horse Shows, Clinics, Events . Expo Coverage Instructor Liability . Payment Plans We will provide you with competitive rates, educated service, and help substantiate values.

Terri Ray (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com

© 2019 Connecticut Horse All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this magazine or portions thereof in any form without prior written permission.

publisher Stephanie Sanders • steph@connhorse.com • (413) 268-3302

editor Kathaleen Emerson

feature writers Sally L. Feuerberg, Sean T. Hogan, Esq., Alessandra Mele, Lara Rudowski, Stacey Stearns

contributors Carol Birdsey, Judith Bosco, Juliana Chapman, Wynatte Chu, Cathy Crouse Patti Crowther, Joan Davis, Kathy Diemer, Allison Forsyth Lisa Gould, Sarah Griffin, Sarah Grote, Alexa Khagan, Jeanne Lewis Suzy Lucine, Kelly McKenna, Lisette Rimer, Carol Welsh, Amy Williams

public relations & advertising sales Lara Rudowski . lara@connhorse.com . (860) 841-9070

reporters Sally L. Feuerberg . sally@connhorse.com . (203) 339-0357 Sarah Griffin . sarah@connhorse.com . (203) 560-4419 Linda Morton . linda@connhorse.com . (860) 822-3006

questions Main Office: info@connhorse.com, (413) 268-3302 (voice or text)

Winner of the 1889 Kentucky Derby, Spokane. ©Katie Upton, katieupton.com

Connecticut Horse is printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper.

the fine print The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Connecticut Horse staff or independent contractors, nor can they be held accountable. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for any misrepresentations or any copyright infringement on the part of advertisers. Connecticut Horse will not be held responsible for typing errors other than a correction in the following issue. All letters addressed to Connecticut Horse, its publisher, editor, and staff are assumed for publication. Photos, stories (verbal or printed), notifications, news items, and all other material that is submitted, including all materials and photos not specifically solicited by Connecticut Horse, are assumed to be legally released by the submitter for publication. Connecticut Horse assumes no responsibility for damage to or loss of material submitted for publication. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure the safety and return of all materials.

6

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Your Letters To the Editor: The November/December issue of Connecticut Horse looks great! I loved your story of Belfie — congratulations on helping a feral cat and making him part of your family at your farm.

Thank you, too, for the shout out to TEAM. We appreciate your support and your (hands-on) commitment to animals.

Donna Sicuranza, Executive Director, Tait’s Every Animal Matters, Westbrook

To the Editor: Thank you Connecticut Horse and Sally Feuerberg for the write-up and lovely photos of the Ox Ridge Club Open House and groundbreaking!

Ox Ridge Riding and Racquet Club Facebook page

To the Editor: I’m in Connecticut Horse November/December issue as the horseperson feature! Heartfelt thanks to Sally Feuerberg for her interest and kindness.

Kathleen Curran, Ridgefield Send your letters to editor@connhorse.com or Connecticut Horse, 99 Bissell Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096.

Premium Quality Hay We provide consistent quality hay year after year!

We’re hard-working professionals with generations of experience and knowledge in crop production and customer service to the benefit of you and your animals.

Small & Large Square Bales Large Round Bales . Wrapped Round Bales Timothy . Timothy/Orchard Grass Orchard Grass/Alfalfa . Alfalfa Nutrient analysis of our hay is available!

Bagged & Bulk Grains

Custom Made Jumps, Tack Trunks, Bit Boxes, and More!

We carry a full line of Tribute Equine Nutrition products as well as Kalmbach Feeds for all classes of livestock.

View photos at saltydawgequine.com and on Facebook.

Feed Consultations Jump rentals too!

Pleasant View Farms has a full-time equine specialist and nutritionist who can assess your individual horse’s needs and make recommendations on the most beneficial feeds.

Bedding Bagged Wood Shavings & Bedding Pellets Premium kiln-dried bagged shavings in various flake sizes.

Pick-up & Delivery Delivery can be arranged for any of our products.

Based on quantity and distance, we do our best to provide fast and safe delivery.

Official supplier of Rhode Island Equitation Championships!

Salty Dawg Equine Services Stefhanie Connors

(508) 259-6924

SaltyDawgEquine.com

Call us today!

Somers, CT pleasantviewfarmsinc.com (860) 698-2388 Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

7

Dude Ranch Vacations How to Choose the Right One for You

Sally L. Feuerberg

by Sally L. Feuerberg

The Rocking Z Guest Ranch owned, operated, and managed by Zack and Patty Wirth in Wolf Creek, Montana.

T

he chores were done for the day.

Tucked in for the night, our horses were fed and were peacefully enjoying their evening hay. My husband Bob and I were settling down for a quiet Saturday evening in front of the television for some well-deserved relaxation time, and, as usual, a fair amount of channel surfing was in order. We were both just looking for some light entertainment when we stumbled across a show called Debbe Dunning’s Dude Ranch Round-Up on the RFD-TV channel. You might remember Debbe Dunning as Heidi, the Tool Time girl, from television’s Home Improvement. On this particular show, however, we discovered she showcased some of the best dude ranches in the country.

We started following the show and became enthralled by all the different places and choices that were available right here in the United States. Some of the states that were featured included Arizona, Wyoming, Colorado, California, and Montana, all areas I’d never really thought about actually visiting except in my imagination. The notion of riding horses through majestic mountains, working on a cattle ranch, or simply getting away for a few days began to transition from a distant dream to a tangible reality.

8

I have to admit, I was getting excited about the idea, and it was delightful to see that my husband was as enthusiastic and eager as I to initiate our vacation planning. The 2018 spring and summer seasons in our part of the state had been a mixture of rain, storms, and oppressive humidity, and we were both ready for a change of scenery. Bob actually took charge of the entire investigation, and we started our quest by visiting dude ranch websites.

Although there are guest ranches, as they are sometimes called, throughout the country and all around the globe, we decided to concentrate our research on locations out West. Within days, we started receiving a multitude of brochures and there were a lot of decisions to be made! If you’ve ever contemplated a trip like this, or it’s one of those goals on your bucket list, read on to learn how to make your dream come true.

Planning Your Trip A good place to start is to decide what type of terrain you want to ride. Do you want to ride on open meadows, prairies, or mountain trails, or do southwestern deserts intrigue you?

What type of riding do you want to

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

do — daily trail rides, working livestock, cattle drives, pack trips, team penning, or maybe some arena or gymkhana-type games? Or a combination of these activities?

If your partner, or members of your group or family don’t ride, but would still like to be part of the adventure, look for alternative activities that nonriders can enjoy while you’re out horsing around. Hiking, nature walks, mountain biking, river rafting, fishing, shooting, and archery were just a few of the many choices offered by the ranches.

Do you have children joining you on your vacation? That’s another very important part of your ultimate choice of destinations. Many ranches offer horses and programs catering to children of all ages, and some even offer babysitting services.

If riding is a priority, as it was for us, opportunities are available for riders of all abilities — seasoned riders, intermediate riders, or those completely new to horses. Most ranches we found were adaptable to all proficiency levels, and offered all types of equestrian activities to sharpen and expand your skills.

Another significant element of the process is to consider how many guests a ranch can host. Some ranches offer

courtesy of Bar W Guest Ranch

Ride every season at the Bar W Guest Ranch on Spencer Lake in Whitefish, Montana. The ranch has a local connection — it’s owned by the Leishman family of Suffield.

accommodations and enough horses for up to 100 visitors, while others offer lodging for as few as eight guests.

Are amenities important to you? If you need wireless internet, television, room service, or a daily massage to make your vacation perfect, choose your final destination accordingly.

There are different types of dude ranches — working dude ranches, dude ranches, and resort dude ranches. At a working dude ranch, you’ll be exposed to the everyday tasks that are intrinsic and vital to a working cattle operation and horseback riding is the primary focus, with additional varied outdoor activities. At the other end of the spectrum are resort dude ranches that will offer you five-star dining and luxury accommodations in a spa-type atmosphere for your enjoyment.

The weather, the time of year, and which state you choose are also important factors to consider. We had decided that the end of August would be our time frame. Ranches in the northern states like Wyoming, Colorado, and Montana, with their cooler climates, are the busiest in the summer months, while ranches in the southern states like Arizona and California, give you the

opportunity to ride during those sometimes-brutal Connecticut winters. Check the annual average temperatures, both high and low, online.

One more item to be considered is adjustment time to a ranch located at 5,000 feet or more above sea level. All the states that we were contemplating geographically had higher elevations, as did several of the ranches. When you arrive, it may take your body a few days or longer, depending on the individual, to get fully acclimated.

Our Vacation at the Rocking Z Guest Ranch The time had come to determine which location would be our ultimate destination. After reviewing all the literature, websites, and talking to some of the ranch owners, we chose Rocking Z Guest Ranch, a family business owned, operated, and managed by Zack and Patty Wirth in Wolf Creek, Montana.

Bob and I had decided that a working ranch with a significant concentration on horse-related activities was what we wanted. Our eight-day holiday was booked, and within days, my husband had almost every aspect of our expedition planned.

After reservations were made, we received a questionnaire to assess our level of experience and skill with horses, our expectations for our visit, and if we had any dietary restrictions. It was comforting to know that as we were beginning to make our travel preparations, the ranch was also starting to prepare for us. A separate email was sent to us 15 days before our actual departure date, reminding us of a few items we should pack that would make our stay more pleasant. These were excellent suggestions that I would not have normally considered, having no real knowledge of the climate except for what I’d read online.

On Saturday, August 18, we arrived in Helena. Helena Airport was the smallest airport I have ever landed in. It was simple, with a rustic interior, and so very different from the hectic New York area airport we’d departed from. It was built in the style of a massive log cabin, with artifacts and pictures of Helena’s colorful history filling display cases and adorning the walls. By the time we had picked up our luggage and come back to the main lobby, there was no one left but a restaurant’s bartender and the two of us!

We stayed overnight at a hotel and explored Helena a bit. The next morning, we were picked up at our hotel.

Our drive to Rocking Z took us about 45 minutes, giving our group time to get acquainted. We were leaving the city of Helena and heading toward the town of Wolf Creek, and the landscape was slowly changing. On either side of Interstate 15, the wide-open rural spaces grew in size. Magnificent hills with scattered forest areas, as well as boundless plains, surrounded us. I was already captivated by Montana’s beauty.

We pulled into the ranch’s long gravel driveway, and to my right was a large outdoor ring that was substantial enough to hold a professional rodeo.

Its surface footing had been recently raked, but looked as if it was waiting for the imprint of horses’ hooves to make it complete. On my left was a very spacious paddock containing more than 60 horses. All the different colors and sizes were what first caught my eye. I saw a statuesque Belgian standing alongside an adorable Miniature Horse. The two were contentedly munching hay together, while others were blissfully napping in the afternoon sun. Another

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

9

Ruth Chamberlain

Wolf Creek Montana (406) 465-5534 . patty@rockingz.com

rockingz.com

Arbitrage Tack 1886 Watertown Ave., Oakville, CT . (860) 417-2608

Saddle Fitting & Saddles Deb Fabiani, a member of the Society of Master Saddlers and an Independent Saddle Fitter, is available for on-site Evaluations and Dynamic Assessment of Horse and Rider.

Whether searching for a new saddle or assessing your current saddle, call us to set up your personalized sitting appointment.

New saddles: Amerigo, Bates, Kent & Masters, Lovatt & Ricketts, M. Toulouse, Pessoa, Phillipe Fontaine, Stübben, Thorowgood. Used saddles: Ainsley, Albion, Black Country, Barbier, Collegiate, County, Devoucoux, and many more!

By appointment: arbitragetack@optimum.net

arbitragetack.com

10

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

group was playfully interacting with each other. I instantly felt a combination of tranquility and harmony, perfectly balanced with a phenomenal sense of excitement and anticipation.

The Rocking Z Guest Ranch lodge was straight ahead. Directly behind the picturesque stone and wood structure were brush-covered hills with stone outcroppings that seemed to embrace the main building as well as the entire property. It was obvious that much thought and planning went into the ranch’s placement and development. All the elements, whether natural or manmade, seemed to complement each other.

Patty and her husband Zack are fifth-generation Montana ranchers.

Their daughters, Maria and Anna, and son-in-law, Ben, all work on the ranch together. They have six children, all are married and live in Montana. They also have 16 grandchildren. “They’re learning to ride,” Patty says, “So the future is in good hands!”

The family started the guest ranch in 2000. Zack’s family originally settled in the area in 1864, and Patty’s family settled a few hours east of the ranch in 1872. Zack focuses on the ranching side of the business. That means haying, fixing tractors, clearing trees, and building fences — many of the tasks that keep things running efficiently and as smoothly as possible. Zack has also built virtually every building on the property.

Patty manages the computer and everything that encompasses. She also works with young horses, leads trail rides, cooks, and spends as much time as possible with her grandchildren.

After dropping off our luggage in our rooms, there was a quick tour of the ranch. We met the rest of the guests in our group of 20 in the dining area of the lodge. Guests were from Maine, Michigan, and all over the world, including Denmark, Great Britain, Germany, Belgium, and France. We gathered around the sizeable and sturdy handmade tables. All the furniture, décor, and embellishments within the lodge enhanced the warm and inviting atmosphere. We introduced ourselves and shared a little information about our backgrounds. We talked about our level of experience with horses, and what we were personally looking for in a horse during our stay at the ranch.

I was honest and forthcoming

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

11

about my skill level, and I mentioned that I was particularly interested in a horse I could trust and relax with. My time in the saddle this past season had not been as extensive as I would have liked. I didn’t want to be overmatched, and I simply wanted to enjoy my vacation. No matter what activity was offered, I wanted to participate. Maria and Anna looked at each other, smiled, and simultaneously said, “Abi!” I felt instantly at ease.

The level of riding expertise in our group ranged from other horse owners like us to a few who had ridden only once or twice during a previous vacation or when they were children. We were assured by Maria and Anna that within the ranch’s herd there was the appropriate match for everyone and we headed out to the paddock to meet our mounts for the week.

I met Abi and promptly felt a connection. She was a 15-year-old mare and had been at Rocking Z for a while. She was sweet, gentle, and kind. Maria and Anna were right, and I knew she would be a good companion throughout my visit. The staff, which included talented young women from Montana, Australia,

12

and Switzerland, brought the horses into the stable and helped us tack up.

The wranglers were patient and helpful, and I never felt uncomfortable asking a question or requesting assistance. I typically ride in an English saddle, so I was only vaguely familiar with western tack.

Other guests saddled their own horses under the watchful supervision and hands-on verification by the Rocking Z team. Safety was always a priority.

Rocking Z’s horses were all trained on site, and some were raised and bred there. There are about 70 horses, from new foals to retired masters. The herd was full of many breeds — mostly Quarter Horses, but also Mustangs, Belgians, Morgans, and many crossbreeds. All were trained using natural horsemanship with an emphasis on the Parelli method. (Maria has passed her Level 4 freestyle through the Parelli Foundation.) I quickly came to realize that the horses were excellent at building relationships with their humans.

We mounted up and proceeded to the arena, splitting into two groups: those who were well-seasoned riders, and those who were more at the beginning and intermediate stages of their

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

experience. I felt that it would be most advantageous for me to join the intermediate group. My husband felt more suited to the advanced contingent. He had been riding throughout the season, as well as riding since his childhood camp days. Both decisions worked out very well for us. We always had an option however, to change groups if we felt so inclined. In the arena we got to know our mounts and were taught some of the Parelli games with our horses.

Equipped with a water bottle in a saddlebag to keep us hydrated, we headed out on the trail! I felt a slight whisper of apprehension as we ventured out, but literally within minutes I was enraptured by this region’s grandeur and vastness. I was also comforted and pleased with my mare’s sure-footedness and confidence-building demeanor. For the next two hours, I was able to completely take in all the sights, smells, and stunning vistas that surpassed my expectations, as well as my imagination. It seemed I’d found my little piece of heaven.

We finished our glorious ride and headed back to the ranch. We helped untack our horses and returned them to

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

13

their corral for a well-deserved rest. I was still reveling in the incredible high that only riding in this paradise could have instilled in me, but I was also anxious to exchange first impressions with Bob. After hours of fresh mountain air and plenty of exercise, Bob and I headed back to our room for a rest before dinner.

Accommodations at the ranch were welcoming, simple, and spacious, with in-suite rooms, and in our case, a natural gas fireplace. We slept well and felt extremely cozy in our temporary home for the next five days.

Supper was announced by an old-fashioned triangle dinner bell. Dinner was casual and delicious, and all of us learned a little more about each other. Our first ride bonded our group, staff and guests included. Dining was ranch-style, and everything was home-cooked, with desserts that were often fresh

pies, cakes, or brownies.

Patty, Zack, Maria, Anna, Ben, and many of the wranglers often joined us for our meals once their chores were completed. Throughout our visit, and especially after some of our evening meals, Bob and I both looked forward to hearing about Zack’s anecdotes of the Wirth family and listening to him share mesmerizing stories of Montana’s legendary past.

The next few days were spectacular. Chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and cool evenings were typical. Each day featured one or two trail rides through some of the most awe-inspiring landscape imaginable. Maria and the wranglers took both of our groups on rides that lasted anywhere from two to five hours, with our five-hour outing broken up by a ranchpacked lunch stop on what I called the top of the world.

Words seemed inadequate to

Horseback Riding & Cattle Driving in the Badger-Two Medicine Country and the Blackfeet Reservation

Ride the “Backbone of the World”

Great Horses, Country, and People!

Combining the majesty of Glacier National Park, directly adjacent to the ranch, the Bob Marshall Wilderness just to the south, and the beautiful but mysterious Blackfeet Indian Reservation to the east, the ranch is uniquely situated with the mountains, the foothills, and the prairie in the backyard.

Horseback Vacations . Bed and Breakfast Cabins . Cattle Drives . Horsemanship Clinics . Home Cooked Meals . Special 4 Night 3 Day Bed & Breakfast Horseback Vacations

Bear Creek Guest Ranch Horseback Riding Paradise near East Glacier, Montana bearcreekguestranch.com . (406) 226-4489 14

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

describe the endless and awesome views we witnessed traveling on the many trails that may have carried our forefathers when they first discovered this breathtakingly beautiful territory.

Mule and white-tailed deer, along with elk, crossed our paths during our outings. The varied shades of green in the pines and grasses, the intoxicatingly wonderful smell of sagebrush, and sounds of horses splashing through swiftly flowing streams were a feast for the senses. During my entire time in the saddle with the incredible Abi, I continually thought of how blessed I was to be part of this journey.

Rocking Z also offered cattle working, which focused on both horsemanship and stockmanship. For the horse, Maria explained, it is in their nature to chase and follow one another in the herd for dominance. This transfers to dominating cattle, or herding, seamlessly. As for stockmanship, we learned how to gauge the cattle’s intentions in order to herd them precisely and confidently. On one particular morning, Bob and several of the guests had a chance to practice their new skills as they moved some of the herd from one grazing field to another. The ranch raises Corriente cattle for roping and horse training.

When we weren’t on trail rides or interacting with the cows, we had occasions to play games on horseback, including soccer and barrel racing, things I’d never done before. During another one of our diverse afternoon activities, Maria explained and demonstrated liberty training. With Maria’s patience and excellent guidance, my mare and I were moving as one, and as for bonding, that already happened on day one. I wanted to take Abi home with me.

Way too soon, our sojourn to Rocking Z was coming to an end. On our last day, Bob was taking some final video, and I took a leisurely walk around the ranch by myself. I stopped and stared at my surroundings, trying imprint the images of this idyllic place in my mind. I didn’t want to leave. I felt so content here.

Off in the distance, a group of the guests and some of the wranglers had ridden out before breakfast, and were in the process of bringing the horses back from their nighttime grazing pastures. Dust rose from the dirt road as the horses and riders headed toward the main paddock, and leading the

We have your horse.

Always a nice selection of horses and ponies for sale.

Watch videos and view photos at HeritageFarmEasthampton.com. see Call us to s and new horse s! ponie

WNEPHA Hunter & Dressage Shows English & Western Lessons, Clinics, Training

n Follow us ok Faceboo to see new horses!

Open to buy, sell, and trade horses 7 days a week, by appointment.

Nice Horses for Nice People.

The R aucher Family 30 Florence Rd., Easthampton, MA (413) 527-1612 HeritageFarmEasthampton.com State Auctioneer license # AU450

pack were the magnificent Belgian and the Miniature Horse, Mr. Sugar.

I saw Abi in the herd, and it was then I made a silent promise to her that I would be back. Montana, Wolf Creek, and Rocking Z are now part of me. Of course I’ll be back.

(No compensation was given to Sally or Connecticut Horse from Rocking Z Guest Ranch.)

Sally L. Feuerberg is the president of the Middlebury Bridle Land Association and a longtime resident of Newtown. Trail riding and continuing her lesson programs are her passions, along with the care of her family, horses, and farm.

Sally riding Abi at the Rocking Z Guest Ranch.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

15

Farm Feature

Glastonbury

Glastonbury Hunt Club Good for the Soul

O

n a drive through the outskirts of Glastonbury, you’re likely to come upon a scene of grazing horses behind a white fence, and when you turn into the main gates of the Glastonbury Hunt Club you’ll be amazed by the sprawling view of green fields and paddocks that stretch far into the landscape until they’re swallowed by a forest of trees.

Gina. “I feel like I have a really good team now, a perfect mix.”

“I’ve found my niche here,” says Gina. “My clientele is primarily adult and young adult, hardworking people. I have people who don’t have their own horses who come here to lesson and not go to shows. They just want to learn how to ride well and ride safely. I’ve always wanted to teach people about

Carol Welsh, CW Photography

Carol Welsh, CW Photography

learning the ropes. “I started with Pony Club and dressage in elementary school, then hunters and jumpers, and went to college for equine studies, and just kept going.”

Gina spent some time working with top professionals, handling and showing sales horses, before returning her business to her parents’ barn. She eventually realized she’d outgrown the fam-

Lara Rudowski

by Lara Rudowski

Boarder Judi Lawton with her horse Shaq.

Shaq grazing in one of the beautiful fields.

Boarder Katie Shaffer and her horse Fiona.

There’s a warm welcome this morning — from the playful barn dogs and waves from a handful of ladies, animatedly chatting in the driveway despite the cold. One of them is Glastonbury Hunt Club owner, Gina Leavitt, who has been fortunate enough to enjoy the spectacular expanse of this farm for the last six years.

The Glastonbury Hunt Club is a full-service equine facility that offers lessons from beginner to advanced yearround and specializes in hunters, jumpers, and equitation. Throughout the year, students, boarders, and trainers frequently attend local schooling and rated shows. Training programs are also offered, tailored to fit you and your horse’s needs and goals.

Gina is a passionate businesswoman and a dedicated horsewoman. A lifelong equestrian, she has years of experience in the saddle, along with managing horses and property with great success.

“My parents had a small horse farm in South Glastonbury, one that I ran my sales business out of for years,” says Gina, who as a high school student was already

ily farm and started looking for a place that could better suit her needs.

In 2009, the town of Glastonbury acquired 170 acres of beautiful land, which included the 140-acre Winter Hill Farm, to be kept as open space. The Glastonbury Hunt Club leases the farm — a former dairy operation and onetime home of the largest Percheron horse breeding and training facility in New England.

“This barn was empty for five years [when we started the lease] and needed a lot of work to get it safe and up and running for horses,” says Gina. “The town didn’t know what to do with it, but eventually they realized they needed a specific type of person to manage a large parcel of property.” Gina’s experience in such management made her the ideal person to entrust with reviving the place. “The town owns this property so that it doesn’t get developed. I lease it, maintain it, take care of all the upkeep, and run my business out of it.”

“I have a lot clients that have been with me for a very long time and I’ve met a lot of new people here,” says

quality versus quantity — the quality of what you’re learning versus the quantity [amount of time] that you do it. I also have people who do show and have a great work ethic as well. Everyone that’s here is willing to put in that time and effort.”

Gina treats every horse as if it’s her own, and her barn manager Tracey Vincek, along with the friendly staff, are more than happy to help in all aspects of horse care.

“I try to keep things as simple as I can,” says Gina. “I keep board reasonable and all-inclusive, so you have peace of mind when you’re home that no one forgets to take off your horse’s blanket or brush the mud off their hooves.”

Since Gina’s lease began, the facilities are thriving and are put to good use with a nearly full house most times.

There are nine concrete wall stalls in the smaller barn and 23 roomy stalls in the main barn. Gina’s added fencing, new footing, an office, and bathrooms to the farm.

Horses spend the entire day in the 11 grass turnouts around the property.

16

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

“I’m a huge believer in all-day, big, grass turnout,” says Gina. The expansive fields are a large part of what drew her to this piece of land. “In the winter, we plow out the fields to make sure the horses can still get out into them.

Sometimes, we rotate them through the smaller indoor rings, but for the most part, they don’t miss a day of turnout.”

Gina also takes advantage of the largest field to produce her own hay for the farm, “so that our horses can eat the same hay all year round,” says Gina.

“I get about 6,200 bales off the field and I don’t have to question the quality of hay I’m getting.”

The hayfield doubles as a favorite spot for pleasure riding, but the farm also has a scenic outdoor ring along with a large indoor arena that’s 29,000 square feet that is usually set up with a jump course for riders to practice on for show preparation or during lessons.

(Gina and Tracey both teach lessons at the club.)

“The indoor arena is large enough to have a whole group in there,” says Gina. “My clients call each other up and say, ‘Hey, you want to ride tonight?

Let’s meet up!’”

A walk down the long aisle of the main barn opens to a grooming stall adjacent to a beautiful tack room, equipped with individual lockers, saddle racks, and a row of bridle hooks.

Above them, a sign reads “I live in the barn, I sleep in my house.” There’s a washroom for laundry and a heated lounge area with a fireplace and television to relax in after a good ride.

“It’s pretty lucky to love what you do and have a big, open space to be able to do it,” says Gina, in her office, flooded with sunlight from the large window in front of her desk. It overlooks the barns and the paddocks. As Gina gazes out the window, it’s clear she never tires of the view. One of her dogs pushes his way in to cuddle and Gina chuckles, giving him a good scratch.

Gina is committed to running a business with high standards for her clients and their horses, yet the farm is a place to relax and leave all the stresses of the workday at the front gates. It’s a priority Gina has always upheld. “It’s really important to me, for everyone that’s here, that they come because this is the de-stress and enjoyment place — one they look forward to coming to.”

Every person (and horse) you meet seems to echo the wonderful atmosphere at the club and the special camaraderie.

Judi Lawton, one of Gina’s long-

time clients, started boarding with Gina back at her parents’ farm and has happily remained under her care ever since. From the smile on Judi’s face as she stands bundled up in the wind and trying to spot her blue-blanketed horse in the paddock, it’s obvious she relishes the opportunity to be here every day.

“I’ve been with Gina for more than ten years,” says Judi. “Before that I’d leased horses for twenty-five years. I never wanted to own, but then I lost a lease and a friend said to check with Gina for something I could lease from her. I went there and fell in love with this seventeen-two-hand, dark bay warmblood named Shaq. I went home and told my husband, ‘I have to have this horse; he’s calling my name!’ ” An avid pleasure rider, Judi loves to take Shaq into the fields. “Shaq is a lot of fun and my buddy. He’s a love, like a big teddy bear!”

“Gina uses a common sense approach and she has so much knowledge,” Judi says. “The size of this place really hasn’t changed the way she does things. She’s always willing to give advice; she’ll always help you."

“I love Gina and the other horse owners,” says Katie Shaffer, one of the younger riders at the farm, who boards her mare Fiona here. Katie has come to visit playful Fiona, a white horse aptly nicknamed Snowflake. “We all just have a lot of fun,” says Katie, as Fiona searches Katie’s pockets for treats. “It feels like home and Fiona has two of her best friends that she gets turned out with every day. She has a good space to gallop.”

“All the horses really do thrive here,” says Judi. “It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and a very supportive environment; everyone gets along here. It’s just about enjoying your horse, each other, and the property.”

“When I pull in the driveway and when I leave, I just feel better for being here,” Judi says warmly.

A fellow passing boarder, Alice Janelle, chimes in. “After work I come here and I just take a breath,” says Alice. “I look out at the fields, at all the green and the horses out there — it’s good for the soul.”

Singer/songwriter Lara Rudowski enjoys performing, spending hours at her piano composing, and writing stories and spoken-word poetry. Inspired by travel and the everyday details of life, she can often be found, camera in hand, at equestrian events capturing her love of horses and riding since childhood.

The Northeast’s Premier Trailer Dealer Family owned for 42 years!

“A happy horse rides in a Yered Trailer.”

Many more brands and models online at yeredtrailers.com!

11 West Mill Street, Medfield, Mass.

(508) 359-7300 YeredTrailers.com

Cara Kneser D.V.M.

Exceptional Routine and 24/7 Emergency Care

Equine and farm animal veterinary services for Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island 860 . 823 . 8951 kneserveterinary.com drcara@kneserveterinary.com

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

17

Horseperson Feature

West Granby

by Lara Rudowski

Joan Davis A Love of Horses and a Love of Life

he picturesque town of Granby has been home to a family, a career, and later in life, a true passion for rider and Granby Horse Council president Joan Davis. It’s where she and her husband have raised two children. Joan has loved Granby for its quiet pockets of countryside for almost 50 years.

Joan grew up in the town of Meriden and later met her husband while studying to be a teacher in New Haven. One day, he took her up to his hometown of Granby, a stark contrast to her own, with its long, winding back roads, large fields, and backyards where

T

“I joined the council thinking I would just learn about horses and get acquainted with people and someone might let me ride at their place,” says Joan. “That was in September of 1998 and the next April, I owned a horse.”

So began the whirlwind love affair with horses and riding. When Joan met western cutter and trainer Kim Estes, he helped her buy her first horse, a 15-hand, dun Quarter Horse named Bullet. Joan took lessons with Kim for a year in western pleasure riding and took in every bit of horsemanship knowledge she could learn from him. “I followed him around that whole first

Cherokee and Joan at the Blandford Fair Show.

Cherokee and Joan cowboy-mounted shooting.

Cherokee and Joan during a drill team performance.

residents often kept horses. For Joan, this place was a newly discovered beauty. The couple eventually settled down in Granby and for 34 years, Joan taught physical education in the East Granby school system. She always enjoyed seeing horses grazing when passing by her neighbors’ houses, but couldn’t afford to take riding lessons or keep a horse of her own.

“My first experience with horses was a pony ride at the carnival,” says Joan, chuckling. “I fell in love with them. I never got a chance to do anything [with horses] until I was fifty-one. There were no opportunities until then.”

In 1998, when her children were grown up, Joan decided to start working on her bucket list. After a go at ice-skating, something Joan laughs at and says, “it wasn’t meant to be,” she jumped at the opportunity to try horseback riding.

Joan found herself saddling up and taking lessons in town, which soon led her to the Granby Horse Council (GHC).

summer,” says Joan. “I would go [to Kim’s place] every day, just watching and listening.”

The Granby Horse Council remained the backbone to all her equine adventures as she took to the trails and joined the GHC parade team.

In 2006, Joan retired from teaching and found herself with more free time on her hands. Her commitment to the GHC grew when she became vice-president, began writing the club’s newsletter, and submitting articles to the Granby Drummer newspaper. While many would consider their hands full, Joan looked to juggle even more by exploring other riding sports she could pursue.

“In 2005, my farrier Roger Dinsmore said, ‘I want to start a mounted shooting club,’ and I said, ‘I’m in!’” says Joan. Mounted shooting is a fast-paced sport where riders, equipped with revolvers, fire at balloon target patterns in a timed course. Joan’s horse Bullet wasn’t an enthusiast of the sport, so

and winning [belt] buckles for both of us!” Joan’s other granddaughter Kayla and Cherokee also win belt buckles.

On the side, Joan branched out into everything she and her horse were up for. She taught Cherokee pedestal tricks, went to trail obstacle competitions around New England, and entered in stock horse shows, which included reining patterns and working cattle.

“Cherokee and I did the horse and rider versatility at Equine Affaire in Springfield, Massachusetts in 2011, and came in thirteenth out of twenty-eight riders,” says Joan. “Here we were, a backyard pony and an old lady competing against pros. All my life I never competed in anything. I started mounted shooting and now I was suddenly fiercely competitive. Winning was fun.”

“I firmly believe in listening to the horse,” says Joan. “If you pay attention, you’ll find out what he’s going to be good at. We explored what he could and wanted to do.”

Jeanne Lewis Images

Joan found herself with a second horse in the family.

“I bought Cherokee as an already trained, mounted shooting horse,” says Joan. “He’s a 14.1-hand pony with a pig eye and big ears, but oh boy is he smart.”

As a member of the Connecticut Renegades Cowboy Mounted Shooters, Joan was a fast learner and Cherokee was the best teacher she could ask for.

“Cherokee and I travelled to twelve states to compete in mounted shooting together,” says Joan. When her younger granddaughter Kiersten picked up the sport, they both competed on Cherokee. “He was doing double duty

18

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Joan’s trophy room walls are decorated with dozens of colorful ribbons awarded for wins in mounted shooting, trick demonstrations, and more. There are framed photos of her and Cherokee in action and photos of the two of them printed on fabric that have been sewn together to make a colorful, patterned quilt. Two rows of stock horse show ribbons cover one wall alone. Joan is definitely a champ!

The Granby Horse Council has thrived under Joan’s leadership. She’s currently president and is involved everything from the annual Memorial Day Parade in Granby to trail rides for members to enjoy their horses and each other’s company.

“The Granby Horse Council is all about preserving the horse-friendly reputation of Granby,” says Joan. “One of the club’s main objectives is to keep horses in town. The club has members who don’t even own horses and just want to be a part of it.”

“We put in a riding ring at Salmon Brook Park and at Holcomb Farm here in town,” says Joan. “Anybody can trailer in and ride there. The park connects to trails with a lot of public land. We ride the trails all around Granby, public and private.”

The council plans around 15 organized trail rides a year, including a trip to Rhode Island beaches for an extra fun getaway. They’re also involved in a statewide volunteer horse patrol.

“We patrol trails and other state properties and report back to the Connecticut Horse Council if there’s a tree blocking the trail or people using [banned] vehicles out there,” says Joan.

Joan’s recent focus is on GHC’s new Share the Road campaign intended to raise awareness on road safety and vehicles sharing the road with riders. Started last year, GHC now holds a community outreach event to demonstrate hand signals and teach the public the right way to handle an encounter with a horse on the road.

The council currently has 140 members and holds a monthly meeting on every third Wednesday of the month — a gathering open to non-Granby residents and all horse people.

Heather Hicks, who’s been president and has chaired many committees, is proud to call Joan a close friend for 15 years.

“We met through the Granby Horse Council,” says Heather. “She’s a great horseperson, all about the horses, all about learning new things. Even after all these years of being involved with horses, she’s always looking for new clinics and events to learn more.

She loves a constant influx of knowledge where horses are concerned.”

“Joan’s been a great mentor to me with horses,” says Heather. “We have gone to so many events and simultaneously run the club together. She’s always thinking of what’s best for the club and what new things we can do.

We have a lot of members, who, from her inspiration, have come into this later in life.”

Out of the saddle, Joan has been busy scrapbooking lately. She’s putting together albums for each of her two horses — one to remember her beginnings on Bullet, the other, a continuing chronicle of her Cherokee adventures. She flips through the pages with handwritten notes accompanying the photos. There are photos where her strong spirit in mounted shooting shines amid others that capture family moments on horseback.

It’s not all about competition and winning for Joan. For the last two decades, Joan and her husband claim a cabin room at Rydin’ Hy Ranch Resort, tucked up in the scenic Adirondacks of New York, for a rustic autumn retreat of pleasure riding and quiet evenings by the campfire. Joan would be hard to find anywhere without horses.

Joan has proven more to herself, as well as to others, that there really is no age or time to say, ‘It’s too late to start this’ or, ‘It’s time to hang up the saddle.’ Instead, she and Cherokee have recently taken on a new challenge, western dressage. It’s growing on Joan and she’s already looking forward to competing in it. Joan isn’t making up for lost time, she’s just greeting each day with two simple things — a love of horses and a love of life.

Heather marvels at Joan’s resolve and dedication. “She’s the first one to

say, ‘Hey let’s go on a trail ride or let’s go to this clinic,’ and I have a hard time keeping up with her.”

Singer/songwriter Lara Rudowski enjoys performing, spending hours at her piano composing, and writing stories and spoken-word poetry. Inspired by travel and the everyday details of life, she can often be found, camera in hand, at equestrian events capturing her love of horses and riding since childhood.

RIDIN’ HY RANCH RESORT ALL-INCLUSIVE, YEAR-ROUND DUDE RANCH VACATIONS

Explore Ridin’ Hy’s 700 acres of scenic trails on well-trained ranch horses.

Plus, activities for every season!

Visit our website to see what we offer!

WARRENSBURG, NEW YORK (518) 494-2742 WWW. RIDINHY.COM

Order online for delivery or pick up in store!

Nutrena, Legends, Pro-Elite, Purina, Triple Crown, Poulin, and Blue Seal Feeds Hay and Shavings Dog and Cat Food and Supplies Poultry and Gamebird Feed and Supplies Goat, Pig, Cow, Llama, and Small Animal Feeds Wild Bird Seed Heat Pellets and Bio Bricks Lawn and Garden Supplies

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

19

Lend a Hoof

Hartford

Ebony Horsewomen

by Alessandra Mele

Horses in Hartford and So Much More

orses in Hartford? Patricia Kelly gives a hearty laugh each time she hears this question, which is often. “There have always been horses in Hartford!” she says, smiling, and she’s right. From the earliest horsedrawn grocery deliveries to mounted patrol police units to equine-assisted therapy, horses are at the very foundation of Connecticut’s capitol and remain a part of the cityscape today.

H

nantly Jewish and Italian. In that time of segregation, many neighbors were upset at the prospect of an African American family moving in, and Patricia found herself caught in this unfortunate racism at a very young age.

She remembers the generosity of one man, however, that would change the course of her life. “One day, I was peeking around the corner of our house. Neighbors had been petitioning

became friends with one gentleman who had a farm in Glastonbury and would allow her to ride his horses.

“I called up my girlfriends and invited them to ride with me, and feel the peace and serenity I had found,” Patricia says. “Soon we would meet every weekend, riding his horses all day and cooking food together. I started calling us the Ebony Horsewomen, and the organization was founded there in

Ebony Horsewomen’s founder Patricia Kelly.

Ebony Horsewomen participant.

Ebony Horsewomen participant hugging Rusty.

That’s largely in thanks to Patricia and her team at Ebony Horsewomen.

Ebony Horsewomen was founded in 1984 as a riding organization for African American women, and soon attracted skilled horsewomen from all over the country. After much success in rodeos, parades, and horse shows, the riders became recognized as community leaders and expanded their program to empower, educate, and help youth through horses, especially youth in inner-city environments. They’ve called Keney Park in the North End of Hartford home for nearly 20 years, and have expanded their programs to deliver equine-assisted therapy to the community in many different ways.

to have us removed and I was just hoping nothing bad would happen,” Patricia says. “Suddenly, I heard a ‘pssst’ whisper behind me, and turned to see a big white man with a round stomach, white beard, and rosy cheeks; I thought it must be Santa Claus! This man’s name was Mr. Fisher, and he beckoned me to come over, telling me not to listen to those angry neighbors. Beyond the fence, he had a huge horse, and he asked me if I liked the horse. I nodded yes and he handed me a brush, letting me climb through the fence. And that was it, I had found my love for horses.”

Mr. Fisher taught Patricia to ride, and from then on she was in the saddle every chance she got. She carried this love for horses through high school and out to California when she joined the United States Marine Corps, where she found opportunity to ride more. When she returned home, she connected with a group of African American riders in Hartford known as the Ebony Horsemen.

The group was phasing out, but she

this poor gentleman’s living room, as he grumbled in the corner about all these women taking over his house!”

He eventually worked up the nerve to kick them out, and the Ebony Horsewomen found homes at various barns in the area over the next few years. They began competing, entering rodeos, and exhibiting in parades, and became well known and respected in Connecticut and beyond. They were also developing programs to bring inner-city children out to the barn, and would trailer their horses into many of the Hartford neighborhoods to introduce kids to horses.

The Ebony Horsewomen were soon regarded as community leaders in Hartford. In 1999, when the city was faced with financial trouble and needed to disband its mounted patrol unit, then Police Chief Deborah Barrows knew Patricia was the person to call.

“I’d always been a supporter of the unit because I saw the positive relations

A Horsewoman in the North End The origins of Ebony Horsewomen begin in the 1950s, just four blocks from the barn where children in Hartford go riding today. Patricia’s parents had just purchased a home in the North End, which was then predomi20

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

continued on page 29 . . .

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

21

Trail Guide

Hebron

by Stacey Stearns

Gay City State Park

I

A Leg Up Use 435 North Street (also known as Route 85) in Hebron for your GPS. Be prepared to park strategically and share the trails with other trail users. This park is popular with local residents. It’s open to bicyclists, hiking, and youth camping during summer months. Dogs are supposed to be kept on leashes.

The pond area offers swimming, picknicking, and fishing in the summer.

Equestrians are allowed to ride most of the trails, but the blue-blazed Shenipsit Trail is foot travel only. Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA)

but expect to see other trail users around every corner in the central parts of the park. There were fewer trail users as we rode deeper in the woods, and down near Meshomasic State Forest.

There weren’t any maps at the information kiosk, but I had printed one at home from ct.gov/deep/. The trails were well marked within Gay City State Park, and I only consulted my map a couple of times to confirm our route. Composting toilets are available near the ticket booth and the pond picnic area. There is a water pump at the

Stacey Stearns

ran a trail race at Gay City State Park in Hebron a number of years ago.

I’d never been there before, and, until recently, I hadn’t been back. There were some really technical trails, and a few people tripped on roots and fell during the trail race; other stretches were wide and smooth. I was overdue for a return visit to the park, so I loaded up the trailer and headed out to explore it again, this time on horseback.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) manages Gay City State Park, and its 1,569 acres in the towns of Hebron,

Bolton, and Glastonbury. The park is situated on the ruins of an extinct mill town, Gay City, that was founded in 1796 by a religious sect. The 25 families kept to themselves and built a sawmill along the Blackledge River.

Gay City’s history is a series of ups and downs that trace the economic ebb and flow of mill industries impacted by blockades and wars. Fires destroyed two of the mills. The second fire was after the Civil War, and signaled the end of Gay City. Families left for urban areas and better jobs, while nature quietly strengthened her foothold on the land.

It became a state park in 1944. Some of the stone foundations, grass-filled cellar holes, and a few tombstones can still be seen in the park. One of the old mill sites is a short distance from the main parking lot on the White Trail along the Blackledge River, before the White Trail connects to the Shenipsit Trail.

Meshomasic State Forest borders Gay City State Park along the southern and western boundaries, increasing the miles of trails that can be explored.

22

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

maintains and marks some of the trails in the park. Some trail intersections also have maps that show your location. The trails in Meshomasic State Forest aren’t marked; you will want to carry a map.

There is a parking fee from April through October. After that, the main gates are closed and the winter parking lot is available. There are two strategies for winter parking. I arrived in the early afternoon, and parallel parked in the top half of the upper parking lot, allowing me to turn around after others had left. If you arrive first thing in the morning, you can turn around in the upper parking lot, and then parallel park along the sides of the lower parking lot, pointed back out toward the road. In the summer months there is ample parking in the grassy fields farther down the park roads.

On a chilly Sunday afternoon in November there were many other trail users. I imagine that Gay City State Park is bustling year-round. We saw dogs, mountain bikes, and families with children, and people out walking. Everyone was pleasant and all dogs were leashed,

picnic area near the ticket booth, but it had caution tape on it. Pack water for your horse.

Out Riding It Gay City State Park has ample riding opportunities. The trails varied, with tough, technical trails, wide park roads, and big grassy fields. The park is filled with small streams crisscrossing the densely wooded areas. This also creates a patchwork of swamps during wet seasons.

Flies and biting insects are a challenge in warmer months in the swampy areas.

There is really interesting geology associated with Gay City State Park. A whole page on the DEEP website is dedicated to the different types of rocks found within the park. That being said, you’ll want hoof protection on your horse.

Jeanna Prink is the director of Stirrup Fun Stables in Lebanon, and recently took a group of riders to Gay City State Park to explore. “It was amazing!” she says. “We have traveled to many parks across the state and I don’t know why we’ve never been to this one before, but we’ll definitely be returning.”

“Our group loves versatility and a challenge,” says Jeanna. “Gay City State Park had it all. From rugged terrain to smooth paths, crossing water and bridges, areas of single file through the woods and areas of riding side by side as well. It also had many stretches to canter, and open fields to boot.”

Jeanna’s group arrived early and parallel-parked five horse trailers along the bottom half of the winter parking lot, using both sides.

The northern part of the park is dense forest including hemlocks and numerous large trees that have been here for hundreds of years. There’s a beaver pond in the northernmost end of the park. It’s quiet in the southern part of the park, especially when you cross into Meshomasic State Forest. There’s a more remote feeling as few trail users venture this far south. A few stream crossings are in the south; however, most are up in the northern section.

It’s about 4.9 miles if you ride the entire loop of the Red Trail around the park; this trail is also referred to as the Gay City State Park Trail. You can pick up the Red Trail at the northern end of the winter parking lot, and if you ride the entire loop, it comes out on the main forest road near the ticket booth.

The White Trail is 1.7 miles, and

you can do an out and back on it, ride half of it and do a smaller loop to the parking lot, or connect to the Red Trail and re-ride some of that, creating a loop. The Yellow Trail is 0.77 miles and can be used as a cutoff to shorten your loop on the Red Trail if needed, or as another trail to explore. We also rode on the park roads, and down to Gay City Pond, the beach, and picnic area to check everything out, since there wasn’t anyone swimming or fishing at this time of year.

Best Part of the Ride Definitely the wooden sign, shaped like a small door, leaning against a tree on the white trail that said “Beware of the trolls.” Rumor has it there is a small door at the base of a tree on the Red Trail, but I missed it on this ride. I’ll be looking a little closer on my next visit.

Happy trails!

Stacey Stearns, a lifelong equestrian from Connecticut, enjoys trail riding and endurance with her Morgan horses.

Brooklyn-Canterbury Large Animal Clinic Equines, Farm Animals & Camelids Serving Eastern CT & RI 24-hour Mobile Veterinary Emergency Service

Alice V. Ennis, DVM : B-C Large Animal Clinic, LLC

132 Westminster Road Canterbury, CT

860.546.6998 . BCLargeAnimal.com Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

23

Overherd

News in Our Community Denim, Diamonds, and Drafts

horse manure. But, did you realize there’s a lot more to it than what meets the eye, or nose, as the case may be?

barns, I have a suitable container along with single-day, weekend, weekly, or regular scheduled service available.”

Turn Your Manure Pile into Black Gold There are common threads that we all share if you do anything that involves horses.

There’s one particular item we all deal with whether our interest is simple backyard enjoyment or training for the Olympics, and that’s Sarah Grote Photography

Dust off those dancin’ boots and join the Connecticut Draft Horse Rescue (CDHR) for an evening of dancing, dinner, and drinks to support the rescue horses on Saturday, March 30, at 6 p.m. at Saint Clements Castle in Portland. There will be a buffet dinner, raffles, a live auction, and a cash bar. Tickets are limited and $70 per person. The event is snow or shine.

To purchase your tickets, call Lori at (860) 267-1542.

Tickets can also be purchased via PayPal — send payment to ctdraftrescue@aol.com and reference Denim, Diamonds, Drafts tickets on the payment.

CDHR is an all-volunteer

501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the lives of draft horses that were bound for slaughter, in addition to victims of starvation and neglect whose owners are unable to provide for their needs. To date, CDHR has saved more than 70 horses and adopted many to loving new homes.

To learn more, visit ctdraftrescue.com or facebook.com/ctdraftrescue.

Ben arrived at Connecticut Draft Horse Rescue in June of 2017. His previous owners contacted us asking that we take him to find a forever home that can give him the appropriate attention and care that he needs. After some TLC from CDHR, Ben is available for adoption! This handsome Clydesdale is best suited for light driving with an experienced driver. To learn more, visit ctdraftrescue.com.

When managed properly, yes, manure can be both beautiful and functional.

There’s also quite a science to the process.

Fred LeMay is a Nutmeg State native who’s been hauling horse manure since 1992.

In the beginning, there weren’t many regulations or government agencies that were overseeing the manure disposal. Fred has not only evolved along with the regulations, he’s survived the changes and adapted with growth and development.

“In the hauling business, I’ve learned that everyone’s needs and requirements are different,” says Fred. “For big 24

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Fred has 10, 20, 30, and 40yard containers to fit your needs. “If you have a small farm of four horses or more, I have smaller trucks and containers ready for your use too. Whatever size you need, we’ll drop it off for you to fill, and you call us when you’re ready for pick up. It’s as easy as that.”

Fred travels to Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts, and the manure does not have to be in the container. He will also come and take a pre-existing pile. “I’m always looking for new manure customers, so if you have a pile of it, I can utilize it,” says Fred.

Connecticut Horse Cremation A loving and dignified tribute to your horse.

Connecticut’s only state-of-the-art horse crematory.

We respect and honor your horse by only moving them through the use of our customized cradle system that accommodates any size horse.

Complete Service

Servicing all Northeast Equine Hospitals including Tufts 24-hour/7 days a week dignified transportation . Never an upcharge for nights/weekends Private, intact cremation . Personal return of remains . Serving the entire Northeast

Owned and operated by horse owners who know the heartache of losing a horse that’s a member of your family.

Contact us anytime!

Jeff (860) 881-7802 . Dominic (860) 881-7823 cthorsecremation@gmail.com . www.cthorsecremation.com Facebook.com/Connecticut.HorseCremation

Thank you to the horse community for the support that helps make this important service a reality.

Member of International Association of Pet Crematories and Cemeteries Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

25

n Sally L. Feuerberg

26

Hylofit Clinic with Tristan Tucker and Rodrigo Pessoa On December 1, Millstone Farm in Wilton held a horsemanship clinic to demonstrate the launch of Hylofit — a wearable heart rate monitor for horses and riders designed to use heart rate to track performance, set fitness goals, and promote wellbeing of horse and rider.

The sold-out event drew a crowd of equestrians looking to get acquainted with

exercises and spooky props such as umbrellas and noise makers. Despite a horse’s often deceptively calm outer demeanor, a strong fear response can still be present, but unseen.

Tristan believes that the data Hylofit presents is truly advantageous to changing and rewarding the mentality of a horse in order to achieve a stress-free ride.

To learn more about Hylofit, view product demonstrations, and purchase the device, visit hylofit.com.

worn around the chest to monitor your own heartbeat while in the saddle.

The collected information about each individual ride, including speed and distance, is automatically saved to an app on your phone for easy review, which allows you to focus on heart rate fluctuation points throughout exercise and determine what triggers changes in the pattern.

Hylofit can even sync a recorded video of the ride

n Lara Rudowski

Connecticut Morgans Win World Championships

Alexa Khaghan

What does he do with all this manure? In 2000, Fred developed Agrimix Mulch — a compost mulch with the ability to retain moisture for plants and slowly release its nutrients to the roots of plants. It’s made from locally sourced farm manure, and contains no dyes or chemicals. As for its beauty, it gets its rich dark color from the composting process. And as for the science part, it’s composted properly with temperatures reaching 160 degrees to ensure weed seed kill with PH ranges from 6.5 to 7.5.

Agrimix Mulch naturally contains nitrogen and phosphorus, unlike woodchips, which pull nitrogen from plants and soil when they break down, robbing plants of nutrients. As for the functionality part, Agrimix Mulch is formulated with essential nutrients for optimum plant growth.

“I do test my mulch,” says Fred. “I go out of my way to make a better product with essential nutrients for plant sustainability. There are no chemicals, fertilizers, or dyes. I even offer a lab report at my website!”

“Agrimix Mulch is available in bulk deliveries,” says Fred. “The benefits of compost and mulch are now available to you in a locally sourced product,” says Fred.

“Agrimix is available for residential sales and commercial accounts. This is a limited supply product and is the real deal so act quickly if you would like to buy.” There are distributors in Yonkers, Ridgefield, Danbury, Bethel, Newtown, Southbury, Woodbury, Guilford, Thomaston, and Tolland.

“Contact me and I’ll tell you where you can get that two yards you’re really looking for.”

To learn more about Agrimix Mulch and manure removal by Fred LeMay, visit agrimixmulch.com.

Rodrigo Pessoa demonstrates the Hylofit heart rate monitor for auditors at the Hylofit Clinic at Millstone Farm in Wilton on December 1.

the new product and to build on the knowledge of understanding their horse. The barn’s large, heated indoor arena was the ideal place to introduce Hylofit and attendees were also treated to goody bags and a delicious farm-to-table lunch prepared from ingredients grown right on Millstone Farm.

Founded on the partnership between three passionate women — Eliane van Reesema, Kate Motley, and Laxmi Wordham — the concept of Hylofit is to provide insight on how reading a horse’s heartbeat can be one of the closest things to reading his mind. Hylofit is designed as a slim, comfortable device that attaches to your horse’s girth during any exercise activity and relays his current heart rate straight to an app on your phone and smart watch. For riders, there’s a similar, optional sensor strap that may be

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

on your phone to the heart rate chart to create a direct visual of specific challenges or stresses that may cause your horse’s heart rate to suddenly change.

The clinic welcomed two honorable guest speakers — internationally recognized trainer Tristan Tucker along with show-jumping Olympic gold medalist Rodrigo Pessoa.

Tristan’s master class highlighted many of his incredible training methods geared toward bringing confidence to nervous horses and riders. He shared insights on overcoming minor behavioral flare-ups to lifelong fears by being attuned to a horse’s physical and psychological cues.

In the saddle, Rodrigo demonstrated the benefits of Hylofit on several horses — allowing us to see real-time feedback on changes in heart rate when the horses were challenged with new

Almost 1,000 Morgan horses from across the country and Canada were transported to Oklahoma City to compete in the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show. The event was held October 6 to 13, and offered more than 300 classes, 29 divisions, and an excess of $250,000 in prize money.

“I thought that the performances were outstanding this year and there was great camaraderie among the barns,” says show chairperson Sherry Sparks Cole. “We had several activities to interest kids and non-competitors alike.”

Johnna Chenail’s Roy Els Sparta culminated a great show with two world titles — World Low Working Hunter High-Point Champion and World Working Hunter High-Point Champion. The 11-year-old gelding was ridden by Kacie Klee. This duo also won four Grand National titles in these two divisions, and the Grand National Amateur Working Hunter Finals Championship.

The Piano Man GCH and owner Kayla Elaine McGovern of North Grosvenordale, were Reserve World Junior Exhibitor Classic Pleasure Driving Champions. They also won their qualifying class, the Grand National Junior

Exhibitor Classic Pleasure Driving 14–17 Championship and the Grand National Junior Exhibitor Classic Pleasure Saddle 16 & 17 Championship. This duo shows under the direction of Nikki Rae of KGA Morgans.

LCK Stardust was the Reserve World Ladies Hunter Pleasure Champion and the Grand National Ladies Hunter Pleasure Gelding Champion. The fiveyear-old gelding is owned by Sara Pizzuto of Cheshire and was ridden to both titles by trainer Sarah Gove of Taylor River Farm.

The team from Lingering Hill Stable in Windsor — Scott and Danielle Neidlinger, Travis Neidlinger, and Ellie Stevens, came home with some very nice ribbons. Scott led Jagged J Gentleman Jack, owned by Greg and Kathy Jones, to the World Yearling Futurity Colt Champion.

For the second year in a row, Scott was back in the winner’s circle with Cardinal Hill Stable’s young mare Merriehill Nighty Night GCH. This year she was Reserve Grand National Three-Year-Old Mare Champion and the Reserve Grand UPHA Pleasure Driving Classic Champion.

Showing under the Lingering Hill Stable banner, Amanda Hill drove her Sarde’s Crescendo to the World Junior Classic Pleasure Driving Championship and the Grand National FourYear-Old Classic Pleasure Driving Championship. The black gelding is owned by Great Island Morgan Horses.

Another entry of Great Island Morgan Horses was Lucky Strike GCH. With Caroline Church in the saddle, the bay gelding was Reserve World Junior Exhibitor Hunter Pleasure 13 & Under Champion.

Travis Neidlinger presented Ledyard Don Quixote to the Reserve World Two-

Year-Old Futurity Stallion Championship. This promising stallion is owned by Patricia Casler.

Travis also led Little Black Dress GCH, owned by Carey L. Churchill of Kobylar Morgans, to the Reserve Grand National Five-Year-Old & Older Mare Championship. Melissa Becker rode the mare to the Reserve Grand National Classic Pleasure Saddle Mares Championship.

Also showing under the Lingering Hill Stable banner was Jillian Peek, who won the Grand National Fitting & Showmanship 14–17 Championship.

“Our show committee strives to have a fun show, and we succeeded,” said Sherry. “It was wonderful to see the deep classes on Saturday night. In fact, the classes all week were exceptional and the judges really had nice horses in front of them.

“Like they say, ‘all’s well that ends well,’ and now we are working on 2019!”

Sherry says.

n Suzy Lucine

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut The Humane Organization Representing Suffering Equines (H.O.R.S.E.) of Connecticut, now celebrating its 37th year, will hold a special Valentine’s Day Celebration on Saturday, February 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a fun event you won’t want to miss!

There will be hourly tours of the farm where you will meet many of the wonderful horses, ranging from a 30" Miniature Horse to a 19-hand Belgian. The tack shop will be open and filled with everything from blankets to bridles and grooming equipment. There will be a large assortment of baked goods and many great Valentine’s Day gift ideas

Want to understand your horse’s new and/or undesired

BEHAVIOR? Why’s he rearing? Why’s she fighting with a paddock mate?

Why’s he refusing to enter the trailer?

Whether you’re a veterinarian, trainer, or horse owner, you’ve probably experienced how seemingly out of the blue these behaviors start. Is it a health issue? A training issue? The truth is, very often it’s neither. Most behavioral issues displayed by horses are due to stress-related events or environmental circumstances. I provide successful solutions and suggestions to bring the horse back from distress to well-being, and with that back to good behavior.

To book a consulting session, go to nicolebirkholzer.com or email Nicole Birkholzer at nicole@mindful-connections.com.

such as gift bags with stuffed animals, candy, and handmade bracelets and necklaces.

There’s also $50 sponsorships, which include four visits where you can groom and hand walk the horse of your choice — a perfect gift for your special someone while helping a great cause!

The featured horse is Legend, a stunning 16.1hand, chestnut Appendix Quarter Horse gelding that was taken in last spring when his owner could no longer care for him. A former race horse, Legend is 15 years young and loves to trail ride with other horses or ride in the ring. He’s very gentle and affectionate, and would make a great family horse.

Legend hopes you will visit him on Valentine’s Day so he can show you how special he is! Legend is available for adoption, lease, or sponsor.

All funds raised go directly to the horses — from feed and blankets to farrier,

dental, and veterinary expenses. What better way to celebrate your sweetheart than to show your love and support to a local equine rescue.

H.O.R.S.E. of Connecticut is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization funded only by charitable contributions located at 43 Wilbur Road, in Washington. To learn more, call (860) 868-1960 or email horsectinfo@gmail.com.

n Kathy Diemer

Volunteers Wanted Manes & Motions Therapeutic Riding Center is seeking dedicated and compassionate community members, 14 years of age and older, who are interested in becoming active volunteers in our program. For more information and to register for a training session, call (860)685-0008, email mmvolunteercoord inator@hfsc.org, or visit manesandmotions.com.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

27

Save the date for the University of Connecticut’s College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resource’s Department of Animal Science’s annual Connecticut Horse Symposium on Saturday, March 3, at the Horsebarn Hill Arena on the Storrs campus.

Join Peter Whitmore of It’s a Pleasure Training for a Versatility Clinic featuring in hand, basic, and extreme versatility that will run from 9 a.m. to noon. You can choose to be a spectator or a participant in the clinic with your own or a UConn horse.

(Sign up early, horses and space are limited.) In this clinic, horses and riders will gain confidence and skills through the use of obstacles.

They will learn to work through fear and anxiety under Peter’s guidance. This clinic is designed to challenge all levels of horses and riders in a safe and structured environment. The clinic will be broken into three sessions.

Vendor and camp fairs begin at 8:30 a.m. and take place all day in the Horsebarn Hill Arena. At noon there will be a UConn Dressage Team demonstration followed by a UConn Morgan Drill Team demonstration. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. there will be hands-on horse science in which you will get to do hands-on activities involving nutrition, meet the foxhounds of Tanheath Club, learn about chiropractic, and more.

Proceeds from the event will be used to fund equine extension, equine research, and equine teaching. The event is organized by Dr. Jenifer Nadeau, Equine Extension Specialist in the Department of Animal Science at UConn, and her independent study students.

28

For information regarding sponsorship, booths, and the camp fair, reach out to jenifer.nadeau@uconn.edu or (860) 486-4471.

To learn more about the Peter Whitmore Clinic and the symposium activities, visit horsesymposium.uconn.edu.

Ox Ridge’s New Chapter Ox Ridge Riding and Racquet Club has opened the doors to its highly anticipated new indoor riding arena. “With the completion of our new

you can’t help but feel his enthusiasm and excitement.

“We’re going to be the place to come to get everything you want as an equestrian,” says Chance. “Where parents feel comfortable as their children learn to ride, and where you come to ride and show top quality horses because we have the best training, infrastructure, and facilities.”

As riders and owners, both Flavia Callari and Alison Potter, who’ve teamed

courtesy of Ox Ridge Riding and Racquet Club

UConn’s Connecticut Horse Symposium

The December 8 Ox Ridge Club Show at the Fairfield County Hunt Club was a big success for Ox Ridge riders Eva Mackenzie and Ana Failla who were reserve champion and champion in Short Stirrup. Pictured with trainers Chance Arakelian and Cori Reich.

indoor arena, I’m looking forward to focusing on what I do best,” says director of riding and head trainer Chance Arakelian. “That’s riding, teaching, and showing.”

The 205' x 125' expansive indoor arena, built by KBE Building Corporation, includes an elevated viewing area for spectators and stateof-the-art footing by Bill Lowry and Winsor Farms Sales. Chance, a successful horseman and trainer for more than 20 years, is excited about representing such an historic equestrian club in its new chapter. “Ox Ridge holds an iconic place in the history of the hunter/jumper world and our team is proud to continue to recognize the past and embrace the future,” he says.

Speaking with Chance

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

up for a decade of working at Ox Ridge, love to see the focus on training and producing quality horses and riders at this well-known and beloved property under Chance’s watchful eye.

“Chance is the horseman for this job,” says Alison. “He combines a leadership quality, a love of the horse and the sport with a real sense of his students, their parents and families.” Flavia agrees with Alison, adding, “The qualities that Chance possesses as a horseman and businessman are critical to this amazing and bright future for Ox Ridge equestrian.”

n Juliana Chapman

Equine Affaire On November 8, the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, opened its stalls to the 24th

annual Equine Affaire. Every year, New England’s largest equine event draws thousands of horse enthusiasts to stroll the barn aisles, stop by the array of vendor booths, and enjoy interactive clinics for every aspect of horsemanship.

The weekend featured more than two dozen clinicians, including Paula JosaJones of Kent. Paula is the author of Our Horses,

Ourselves: Discovering the Common Body. Paula’s Conscious Touch: Hands-On Strategies for Deepening Your Connection with Horses was held in the Mallory South Building on Thursday, November 8.

Kristen Soto of Copper Hill Equestrian Center in West Suffield gave a Vaulting Barrel Exercises for Developing Coordination, Balance, and Strength with the Copper Hills Vaulting Team on Saturday, November 10, in the Mallory South Building.

Kristen has been vaulting professionally for more than 20 years.

There was also plenty of retail space for equestrians to spoil themselves and their horses with goodies of all kinds. The unique, largescale trade show brought together vendors and craftsmen from across the globe, with Connecticut and international businesses offering quality horseman essentials.

Among the hundreds of vendors, you could find just about anything! Tack shop booths smelled of fresh leather and offered trendy rider apparel for all disciplines. Shiny trailers stood on display in rows and custom barn builders were ready to tackle your next big project.

The friendly spirits kept the cold weather at bay, so everyone left with their hands and hearts full of love for the special horses in their lives.

n Lara Rudowski

. . . Lend a Hoof continued from page 21

it created within the community,” Patricia says. “The barn and facility they had built in Keney Park to accommodate the unit would be vacant, and I petitioned to allow Ebony Horsewomen to move in.” The organization was able to acquire the facility, Patricia quit her job at a law firm, and Ebony Horsewomen ran its first programs from the barn on Vine Street in the spring of 2000.

Equine Therapy for All Since the organization first opened its doors, Ebony Horsewomen has grown to become a full-service equine-assisted therapy provider, a safe haven for innercity youth, and a working farm.

“We’ve built a great relationship with our community, and have gained a lot of respect along the way,” Patricia says. “We’ve received a lot of support from the city and its residents as a result, so we’re able to offer a range of opportunities to our kids.”

Ebony Horsewomen provides equine-assisted therapy and equineassisted learning to children from a variety of backgrounds with a full range of developmental needs.

“We’ve several different programs available, but equine therapy is at the

foundation of all we do, for every single kid,” Patricia says. “They can all benefit from it. Even the kids who are never in trouble and do very well in school need the therapy. Stress levels for children are tremendous right now with the onslaught of social media, bullying, and high expectations.”

The organization is well equipped to address a variety of diagnoses, including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, autism, and more.

With a certified team of mental health professionals and equine specialists, Ebony Horsewomen develops powerful programs and solutions that promote learning and healing through horses.

“Because equine therapy is at the root of every single program, there’s no opportunity for one child to be singled out and feel different from the others,” Patricia says. “They all feel they are here to learn about animals, ride horses, and work on a farm. They don’t know anything about who’s diagnosed with what, nor do they care. They’re all here to have fun with the horses, and they receive therapy by doing that in the programs best suited to them.”

It’s clear that they’re all having fun, each in their own way and at their own

Boarding • Lessons • Clinics Lessons & Training for All Levels

Two Large Indoor Arenas & GGT Footing Two Large Outdoor Arenas Ample Turnout • Impeccable Care IEA Team • Summer Horsemanship Cabin Fever Schooling Shows Jan. 20 • Feb. 10 • March 10 • April 7

247 Hall Hill Road, Somers, Connecticut 860.749.0749 • shallowbrook.com

pace with the horses they love. Several different programs are available to them, from the young women’s dressage team to the young men’s junior mounted patrol unit to the all-inclusive after-school riding program to the Saturday Science and Saddle Club.

Holiday events, community exhibitions, movie nights, and horse shows are available to everyone in this welcoming and community-focused oasis.

The dressage team is a group of close-knit, horse-loving young ladies who are immersed in equestrian culture and learn classical dressage training, but also gain valuable leadership and problem-solving skills.

“They are exposed to a lot of opportunities in the horse industry, whether it’s riding in a horse show, attending Equine Affaire, or seeing a rodeo in Texas,” Patricia says. “In 2016, they traveled to Fort Worth under invitation of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, and were guests at Texas A & M — a school trying to recruit many of them! These are opportunities that open up their worlds and get them out of their own community.

In turn, they invite these people back here, and show them what we do.” continued on page 39 . . .

Located at Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, a full-service tack shop that includes a mobile van to deliver your favorite products directly to your farm.

Ask us to be a vendor at your event!

Custom Embroidery

Horse Laundering & Repair Service Pickup . Delivery . Drop Off

27 Brace Road, Somers, Connecticut 860.749.2802 • tackshack.org Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

29

Partners Our goal is to foster connections within the horse community throughout the Nutmeg State, and one of the ways we do this is with our Partners Program. Connecticut organizations that partner with us receive a free one-year subscription for each member; space in the magazine for news, events, and photographs; and a link from connhorse.com to its website.

Interested?

Thiry-six riders from Connecticut and Rhode Island participated in the ninth annual Turkey Trot, raising money for CMHA’s

the Youth of the Year Contest at the Connecticut Morgan Open Horse Show in June, represented us at the Morgan Grand National, and

The CHC had a booth at the Equine Affaire for the 20th year. It’s great to see old friends and meet new people.

This year we raffled a beautiful wreath made by Laurianne Goulet, owner of Express Your Pet in Rocky Hill. The names of people who joined or renewed their membership were drawn from a hat and Gloria Howell was the winner. When contacted about her win, Gloria graciously declined the wreath and asked that we draw another name. The new winner is Mary Palumbo.

Thanks to all who renewed or joined this year.

A reminder that the membership year starts January 1 and we hope everyone will renew. If you’re not a member, please join and support the CHC and our work.

Membership forms are available at cthorsecouncil.org.

The CHC thanks everyone who voted yes on Question 2 in November.

This vote means our parks, forests, and state land cannot be sold without a public vote, ensuring the lands for generations to come.

n Carol Birdsey

Connecticut Morgan Horse Association CMHA looks forward to hosting its annual Turkey Trot every year. It’s always the Sunday before Thanksgiving at Bluff Point State Park in Groton, and this year the weather cooperated and our riders had sunshine and mild temperatures.

30

Stacey Stearns

Connecticut Horse Council

Riders ready to head out on the Connecticut Morgan Horse Association Turkey Trot at Bluff Point State Park in Groton.

Sue Brander Sport Horse Scholarship Fund. Sue was a longtime member of CMHA and an avid supporter of the sport horse disciplines.

The morning started with donuts and hot chocolate before riders headed out on the trail. This year, we tried something new, and ordered pizza for lunch from Midway Pizza, just down the road from the park.

One of the traditions of our ride is that we have door prizes for riders. Thanks to our generous sponsors for supporting our ride: Big Y World Class Market, Valley Vet Supply, Kelly Herd Jewelry, Mountain Khakis, Platinum Performance, the Paddock of Ledyard, Mountain Dairy, and Strafford Saddlery.

Bluff Point State Park has a five-mile trail loop with views of Long Island Sound.

The park also connects to Haley Farm State Park, offering other trails to explore.

Make plans to join us on Sunday, November 17, 2019, for the tenth annual Turkey Trot. To learn more about all of CMHA’s upcoming events, visit ctmorgans.org.

CMHA extends congratulations to youth member Sophie Proctor. Sophie won

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

in the World Championship Youth of the Year Contest in Oklahoma City in October.

Sophie was named 2018 Youth of the Year for the American Morgan Horse Association! The contest is comprised of four phases: a written exam, oral presentation, horse judging, and horsemanship pattern.

Congratulations, Sophie!

Lauren Santoro, a youth member of CMHA from Harwinton, represented the Morgan breed in the Junior Exhibitor Road Hack class at the Octoberfest Horse Show in Massachusetts. She won the 14-17 qualifier, and won the championship out of 19 horses. Congratulations, Lauren!

Our horse show committee, working with horse show manager Sandy Sessink, is planning the 2019 horse show with many exciting additions. Save the dates of June 5 to 8, 2019, and plan to join us.

n Stacey Stearns

Connecticut Renegades Cowboy Mounted Shooting The Renegades hosted its annual awards banquet on Saturday, November 17, at

The Old Well Tavern in Simsbury. Although it’s always sad to see a competition season come to an end, club members do enjoy dressing up and celebrating with each other. The bestdressed competition tends to be a notch higher at the banquet since members don’t have to ride and shoot in their outfits. This year the best-dressed winners were Chris Anson, Jo-An Boehm, Joan Davis, Alan Green, Boz Pultz, and Gus Carlson.

The club also recognized the high-point riders of the season. The top five riders for the club were Tom Beckman, Sabrina Beckman, Kayla Davis, Dina Baratta, and Rob Baratta. The top two riders, Tom and Sabrina, will also be recognized by the national organization, the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association, with additional prizes including a free entry into a National Championship event in 2019. Tom and Sabrina also earned the high point titles in 2017 and they used their free entry to attend the Eastern National Championships in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, this past September.

The newest member inducted into the Renegades Hall of Fame was Chris Anson of Southwick, Massachusetts. Chris has been a Renegades board member for almost as long as she’s been a member. She not only commits several hours at each club match, practice, demo, and clinic by helping to set up, break down, and keep score, she has also spent countless hours on her own helping with the maintenance of club equipment and various board member activities. If that’s not enough, Chris does a fabulous job decorating at our banquets too.

Other award recipients included Deb Sommers and her horse Klyde who received the Most Improved Horse and Rider team award. Deb also earned the Sharp-shooter

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

31

n Allison Forsyth

Connecticut Trail Rides Association Happy New Year! Wishing everyone many happy trails 32

in 2019! Let’s hope that the rain doesn’t drench us every weekend, as it did in 2018.

The CTRA annual banquet was held at a new venue, Il Monticello banquet facility in Meriden. It was a very nice place, the food was good,

2018. This meeting includes the voting in of officers for 2019. The 2018 officers have all been reelected for 2019.

Congratulations to all the officers.

Member Stella Bauchiero, daughter of Peggy Robinson,

be updates and corrections to the dates and the rides along the way, so always check Facebook and your emails for notification. We welcome all members at meetings and events to participate and volunteer.

n Patti Crowther

Cathy Clouse

Connecticut Renegades annual banquet award recipients Debbie Sommers and Chris Anson at the Old Well Tavern in Simsbury.

Jeanne Lewis Images

Fairfield County Hunt Club

Connecticut Trail Rides Association member Cathy Clouse’s horse Lucky visiting a veteran’s home in 2018.

© Judith M. Bosco, judybosco.smugmug.com

award, an honor given to the rider with the most accurate season. The Wrangler Trophy went to our smallest competitor, Miss Patty Groht. The Silver Spur award was given to Sabrina Beckman for her continued commitment as the secretary of our club.

Special Recognition awards were given to the club’s newest sponsor, Ruger Firearms, as well as Lock, Stock & Barrel of Bethany.

Lock, Stock & Barrel has been a club supporter for a number of years and is now the title sponsor of our Clean Shooter Buckle Award.

Alan Green was the first recipient of this buckle. He earned it by shooting clean (no missed targets) at 10 Renegades matches.

The Renegades also recognized two groups that provide support at our matches.

The Laurel Riders 4-H Club serves food at our events and Boy Scout Troup 931 of Bethany runs our balloons.

This Boy Scout troop has been with our club since we started shooting in Bethany. They are a very reliable and incredibly hard working group that we’re very thankful for!

Each year, the Renegades take great pride in recognizing one of our hard working mounts. The Eternal Sorrel Bar Award, named after the first recipient, is awarded to a horse that has committed a great deal to the sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting.

This year, Levi, a handsome buckskin gelding from Saw Horse Farm in Harwinton, was presented with this distinction. For years, Levi has carried countless riders of all levels through mounted shooting courses.

The Renegades will be meeting soon to plan the 2019 riding season. Clinics for new riders and horses will be scheduled for the spring.

To stay in touch and learn more, follow us on Facebook at CT Renegades - Mounted Shooters and ctrenegades.com.

Winners at the Middlebury Bridle Land Association’s Hunter Pace.

and the décor was beautiful, made even more so by Ruth Strontzer’s decorations. This venue was chosen because it was a central location, to afford all members a chance to attend. The evening closed with our last general membership meeting for

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

was privileged to ride in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City. She rode with the Big Apple Circus, which also hosts the annual Goshen Stampede.

The calendar for 2019 will be created at the January CTRA meeting. There will

Happy New Year from all of us at Fairfield County Hunt Club!

The winter show season is well underway. Fairfield County Hunt Club has added five horse shows to its Winter Horse Show Series. High point champions in each division will receive a gift embroidered by BlueSteed Embroidery. The remaining horse show dates are January 20, February 12, March 23, and April 13. These shows are affiliated with the Connecticut Hunter Jumper Association, New England Horsemen’s Council, and the Marshall & Sterling Insurance League.

In addition, FCHC holds United States Equestrian Federation–recognized horse shows that are also affiliated with the Fairfield Westchester Professional Horsemen’s Association High Score Series. These show dates are January 12, February 13, and March 13.

All FCHC shows offer a full complement of hunter, medal, and equitation classes. The shows are held in our heated indoor arena, which is attached to the FCHC’s second schooling indoor ring and heated indoor viewing room. We offer chef-prepared food concessions throughout the horse show. To learn more, visit huntclubonline.org.

n Wynatte Chu

Middlebury Bridle Land Association The MBLA held its annual End-of-the-Year Dinner Meeting at the Shepardson Community Center in Middlebury on Friday, November 16. Members at the well-attended gathering heard brief opening comments from MBLA president

will evaluate as soon as the trails allow access and good footing and keep members informed.

Upon completion of comments and suggestions

Food was abundant, delicious, and included some of Joe’s legendary desserts.

The MBLA would like to thank all of its members for their continuing support and

Lisa Gould

Sally Feuerberg as well as additional comments by vicepresident Sylvia Preston in regards to trail conditions and future plans for trail clearing and maintenance.

MBLA’s treasurer Debbie Carlson also gave her end-ofthe-year report.

Proposals for the new spring season were discussed and an overview of the pace that was held on September 16 was presented. Included were thank yous to all who volunteered for the many tasks and responsibilities that helped make the event so successful.

Additionally, the prescheduling of trail clearing dates was addressed to give members ample notice when they will be occurring. Part of this discussion included the additional work that will be required for toppled trees and fallen branches that the club was unable to address before winter arrived.

Whether or not we can schedule a spring ride will depend on these factors, as well as Mother Nature. We

Sue Jackson actually found time to ride as well as organize the Pomfret Horse and Trail Fall Foliage Ride.

from members regarding trails, the hunter pace, and meeting locations, attendees enjoyed an incredible dinner catered by Joe Dinova and Four Corners Grocery Store.

we look forward to more great riding adventures in the new year!

n Sally L. Feuerberg

Pomfret Horse and Trail Association On October 21, PHTA held its biggest ride ever with 161 riders enjoying 11 miles of private trails on a brisk, windy Sunday. Proceeds from this ride support the 4-H Horse Camp and Wyndham Land Trust.

We’re deeply grateful to the many landowners in Pomfret who allowed the use of their land. The trails were in great shape, thanks to the hard work of Penny and David Foisey. Ride secretary Sue Jackson was a master event planner and made sure the day ran smoothly. Joann Potrzeba marked trails clearly, most of them on horseback, and included long and short courses featuring some of the best scenery in Pomfret.

Thanks to huge landowner support, ovenbaked pizzas for lunch, and lots of organizing, the PHTA Fall Foliage Ride has become one of the most popular rides of the fall season.

n Lisette Rimer

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

33

34

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Connecticut

Events January

5 PINK FLAMINGO SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Epic Farm, Middlefield. showbrv.com.

5 IEA HUNT SEAT SHOW, ABF Equine, Coventry. rideiea.org.

6 TRAIL OF LIGHTS WALK FUNDRAISER to benefit Hay Burr Inn Equine Rescue, Plainfield. 5 to 8 p.m. Meet the horses and walk the lighted trail. Free. Donations are appreciated. Hot chocolate and snacks. Experience the rescue in a new light! hayburrinn.org.

6 IEA HUNT SEAT SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. rideiea.org.

12 USEF CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

12 MITCHELL FARM EQUINE RETIREMENT NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION, 10 a.m., Salem.

RSVP to volunteer@mitchellfarm.org.

12 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Growth, Development, Mounting, and Dismounting, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

13 REINDEER SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.

13 IEA HUNT SEAT SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. mvhchorse.com.

14 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Physical Disabilities, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

15 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Speech, Language Precautions, and Contraindications, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

16 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, The Effective Instructor, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

17 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, The Therapy Horse Part 1, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

19 VOLUNTEER GENERAL ORIENTATION AND SIDEWALKER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

20 CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

35

20 KEN WHELIHAN CLINIC, Westbrook Hunt Club heated indoor arena, Westbrook. showbrv@gmail.com.

20 CABIN FEVER SHOW SERIES, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

20 CDCTA ANNUAL MEETING AND AWARDS LUNCHEON, Holiday Inn East, East Hartford. cdctaonline.com.

22 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Cognitive and Psychosocial Impairments Part 1, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

22 HORSE HANDLER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

26 – 27 DRESSAGE FOR KIDS WEEKEND EQUESTRIAN PROGRAM, Chase Collegiate School, Waterbury. dressage4kids.com.

23 THE EQUINE HEART by Twin Pines Equine Veterinary Services, the Canteen at VFW Post 10004, Jewett City. Dinner provided! Please RSVP. twinpinesequine.com.

February

23 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Cognitive and Psychosocial Impairments Part 2, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

5 TRAILER SAFETY by Twin Pines Equine Veterinary Services and B.H. Trailer and Plows, Jewett City. Please RSVP.twinpinesequine.com.

24 WINTER LECTURE SERIES, Facilities, Standards, and Risk Management, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

9 MITCHELL FARM EQUINE RETIREMENT NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION, 10 a.m., Salem.

RSVP to volunteer@mitchellfarm.org.

2 PINK FLAMINGO SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Epic Farm, Middlefield. showbrv.com.

Boarding

Lessons

Training

New England’s Largest Quality Sales Stable Celebrating 50 Years.

Leasing

Trails

2 Outdoor Arenas Indoor Arena

Covered Round Pen

Clinics

Parties

Group Lessons

Show Coaching

239 Sand Hill Rd., Portland, CT 06480 (860) 581-0307 wbfllcct@gmail.com

Dressage is our Specialty Board . Lessons . Training All Breeds Welcome (especially Morgans)

Gretchen Geromin, trainer USDF certified instructor . USDF bronze medalist . British Horse Society certified

Mansfield Center, CT . Just 10 minutes from UConn foxfirestables.net . (860) 543-1399

Got manure?

Containerized Manure Removal Le May, Inc. Farmers of Natural Resources Fred LeMay . Newtown, Connecticut 203-426-2497 . 475-529-8567 (cell)

AgriMixMulch.com contactagrimix@gmail.com . akenworthman@gmail.com 36

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

562 S Main St., Middletown, CT (860) 347-2531 www.midstatetractor.com

Subscribe Today at connhorse.com!

10 REINDEER SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Westbrook. westbrookhuntclub.com.

10 CABIN FEVER SHOW SERIES, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

16 VOLUNTEER GENERAL ORIENTATION AND SIDEWALKER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

9 MITCHELL FARM EQUINE RETIREMENT NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION, 10 a.m., Salem.

RSVP to volunteer@mitchellfarm.org.

9 VOLUNTEER GENERAL ORIENTATION AND SIDEWALKER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

17 USEF CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

9 CONNECTICUT MORGAN HORSE ASSOCIATION AWARDS BANQUET, Wallingford. ctmorgans.org.

23 CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

10 CABIN FEVER SHOW SERIES, Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Somers. shallowbrook.com.

24 IEA HUNT SEAT ZONE 1 REGION 7 SHOW, TerryAllen Farms, Terryville. rideiea.org.

26 HORSE HANDLER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

March

2 CONNECTICUT HORSE SYMPOSIUM, UConn, Storrs. horsesymposium.uconn.edu 2 IEA HUNT SEAT ZONE 1 REGION 9 SHOW, Mystic Valley Hunt Club, Gales Ferry. rideiea.org.

Send us your events

Dawn Bonin Horsemanship

Natural Horsemanship Lessons . Training . Boarding . Sales/Leases Two Outdoor Rings . Indoor Arena Miles of Trails . Versatility Course

17 USEF CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

23 SMITH-WORTHINGTON SADDLERY ANNUAL MARCH SALE, Hartford. smithworthington.com.

30 CHJA SHOW, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Westport. huntclubonline.org.

30 SPRING TACK AUCTION, Middlesex Livestock Auction House, Middlefield. bluebirdmeadowsfarm.com.

Independence Stable

2019 Dressage Schooling Shows Traditional & Western Dressage Tests

2 PINK FLAMINGO SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES, Epic Farm, Middlefield. showbrv.com.

for the Annual Events Issue

by February 1, 2019!

Email events@connhorse.com.

12 HORSE HANDLER TRAINING, High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Old Lyme. highhopestr.org.

See website for upcoming events.

Giſt certificates available!

Coventry, Connecticut 860-742-2667 (barn) . 860-985-7611 (cell)

DawnBonin.com . BabcockHill.com

May 5 June 2 August 11 September 8

nnual The A s Sale i Tack !

2 ary 3 Febru

Check our Facebook page for updates!

404 S. Washington St. Belchertown, Mass.

(413) 284-0371 independencestablellc.com

Request a free Youth Award for your event at connhorse.com/youth-awards.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

37

Woodstock

This Olde Horse

Lise Krieger

Certified Saddle Fitter saddle assessments fitting evaluations flocking . repairs consignments . sales

newenglandsaddlefit.com newenglandsaddlefit@comcast.net 203 . 685 . 2308

In the 1930s, when getting around in the snow was difficult in the northern states, there were horse-drawn cabooses to bring children to school. Many had small wood stoves with little chimney pipes to keep the driver and children warm on the long drive to school. Also, mounted above the driver is a battery-operated light for those dark afternoons on short winter days. You’ll even notice a battery-operated windshield wiper to keep the snow from blocking the driver’s view. Pastors, families, and businesses also employed the use of horse-drawn cabooses.

Subscribe Today!

Have a photo for This Olde Horse? Email

Fox Ledge Farm Dressage Training with a Winning Tradition

Ann Guptill

USET Pan Am Dressage Team Silver USDF Instructor & Certification Examiner USPC Graduate A . USDF “L” Judge Graduate

Offering:

connhorse.com 38

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Board . Training . Lessons . Clinics All Levels Welcome . Exercise & Layup Conditioning Show Prep & Coaching . Indoor and Outdoor Facilities Competitions . Wooded Trails and Open Rolling Fields Staff On Site 24/7

29-A Daniels Road, East Haddam, CT (860) 873-8108 . eqarts@snet.net www.foxledgefarm.net

editor@connhorse.com.

How about a nice massage?

For your horse!

Ridgefield, CT (203) 297-3008 kathy.curran@snet.net

. . . Lend a Hoof continued from page 29

The junior mounted patrol unit is a program geared toward young men in the community. “This program came out of discussions around the plight of African American and Latino boys facing stereotyping, characterization, and other troubling issues in their communities,” Patricia says.

“The American Cowboy is one of the greatest icons we have had and shall ever have.

We know that a Western hat has the power to transform an identity, and so these young men are trained as cowboys. They wear Western attire and are taught wellrounded horsemanship, and form deep bonds with their horses. They convene each week under the guidance of male leaders, and provide community service as mounted park rangers in Keney Park. They cover the 693-acre area on horseback, regularly providing reports to the police.”

Finding Success in the North End and Beyond The kids involved quickly find themselves hooked on horses, and Patricia has seen many grow up through the programs and find success.

“Many of these kids go on to attend prestigious colleges, and then pursue great careers,” Patricia says. “We had an alumna that went to Harvard on a full scholar-

the

ship, then went on to work at Microsoft. Another is one of the managers of the Hartford Yard Goats baseball team. Another served on President Obama’s staff as a civil rights attorney with the Department of Health and Human Services. And they all come back! They never forget this place.”

Some alumni find their true purpose in continuing to serve Ebony Horsewomen into adulthood, becoming mentors themselves.

Dominique Bourgeois is the organization’s program director and a riding instructor. She began riding at Ebony Horsewomen when she was a teenager.

“I’m a product of the program myself!” Dominique says proudly, as she heads up to her favorite spot on the farm: the cozy hayloft. “I really love it. I attended a horse show my godsister was riding in here when I was sixteen, and I haven’t left since.” Dominique now oversees all of the programs at Ebony Horsewomen, and enjoys teaching many of the lessons she learned in the saddle as a kid.

Patricia sees Dominique as her right-hand woman, and is proud to have watched her come up through the program toward a fulfilling career. She knows just how fulfilling it can be, and laughs as she reflects on how she arrived at this purpose herself.

neighborhood

ARTISTS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

PORTRAITS BY SHAWNALEE Middlebury, CT, (203) 598-0065 shawnalee.com Charcoals, oils painted by hand.

nnnnnnnnnnnn

THE CARRIAGE SHED (800) 441-6057, carriageshed.com Custom-built barns, shed rows, arenas, run-in sheds, Amish-crafted.

TEAM MOBILE FELINE UNIT (888) FOR-TEAM everyanimalmatters.org Mobile spay, neuter, and vaccination clinic for cats.

KING BARNS (888) 354-4740, kingbarns.com Custom barns, arenas, outbuildings, living quarters, complete design services, fine Amish craftmanship.

them. Ebony Horsewomen’s stable doors are open to all.

To lend a hoof, go to ebonyhorsewomen.us and get involved through volunteer opportunities and by donating. You can also learn about sponsorships and scholarships.

Alessandra Mele is a freelance writer and designer in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. She enjoys spending time with the horses on her family’s farm, especially riding her Quarter Horse, JoJo. To see more of her work, visit thehomegrownstudio.com

Spring Tack Auction!

March 30 • Saturday, 6 p.m.

Middlesex Livestock Auction House 488 Cherry Hill Rd., Middlefield, Connecticut New English & Western Tack . Saddles . Pads . Turnout Sheets Grooming Tools . Buckets . Feeders . Snaps . Dewormers Amish brooms . Halters . Leads . Draft, Pony & Mini Tack Quality name brands. Great selection!

Clean consignments welcome. Call (860) 883-5828 for details.

We buy used saddles!

Your Everything Equine White Pages BOARDING AND TRAINING

BARN CONSTRUCTION

BARN CATS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

“I like to say, ‘God’s got jokes!’” She says. “This is what He designed for me.

It’s my purpose and it’s what gets me up every morning.

He decided I was meant to mess with kids and manure, and here I am.”

The hardworking families of Hartford’s North End are grateful for that, and are proud to tell everyone, yes, there are horses in Hartford — if you’ll only go looking for

nnnnnnnnnnnn

DAWN BONIN HORSEMANSHIP Coventry, CT, (860) 985-7611 babcockhill.com Natural horsemanship, lessons, training, boarding, sales/leases, clinics, versatility competitions, group lessons, and seminars.

FOXFIRE STABLES Mansfield Center, CT, (860) 543-1399 foxfirestables.net Dressage specialty, board, lessons, training, all breeds welcome.

FOX LEDGE FARM, ANN GUPTILL East Haddam, CT, (860) 873-8108 eqarts@snet.net Quality dressage instruction and training; beginner to Grand Prix.

SHALLOW BROOK FARM Bridgewater, CT, (203) 788-2122 shallow-brook.com Event, hunting, and pleasure horses; boarding, lessons, sales; 4,000 acres of trails, cross-country fences.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

39

SPERRY VIEW FARM Bethany, CT, (203) 915-8293 sperryviewfarm.com Dressage, eventing, boarding, professional training, shows, clinics.

SPRING VALLEY FARM Westbrook, CT, (860) 399-5000 Hunter, jumper, boarding, lessons.

WHIMSY BROOK FARM Redding, CT, (203) 938-3760 whimsybrookfarm.com Boarding, lessons, training, equine therapies, Pony Club.

WHITE BIRCH FARM Portland, CT, (860) 581-0307 wbfllcct@gmail.com Boarding, training, trails, lessons, leasing, clinics, indoor arena.

BRAIDING

nnnnnnnnnnnn

BRAIDEEZ BRAIDING WIRE braideez.com Makes braiding so easy! See videos and lessons at braideez.com.

EQUINE-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES

nnnnnnnnnnnn

MANES & MOTIONS Middletown, CT, (860) 223-2761 manesandmotions.com Therapeutic riding for body, mind, soul.

EQUINE MASSAGE

nnnnnnnnnnnn

EQUINE MASSAGE BY KATHLEEN Ridgefield, CT, (203) 297-3008 kathy.curran@snet.net A nice massage, for your horse!

EQUISSAGE NE/NY CT, MA, RI, (860) 564-7759 equisportmt@sbcglobal.net Integrated body work for performance horses: reiki, Masterson Method, sports and therapeutic massage, myofascial release, cranio sacral therapy.

LITCHFIELD BLUE SEAL STORE Litchfield, (860) 482-7116 LOCK, STOCK & BARREL (203) 393-0002 lsbfarmsupply.com Large-animal feed and pet food. Tack, farm supplies, and power equipment.

Blue Seal and Purina.

NORWICH AGWAY Norwich, (860) 889-2344 norwichagway.com SHAGBARK LUMBER & FARM SUPPLY East Haddam, (860) 873-1946 shagbarklumber.com VALLEY HOME & GARDEN CENTER Simsbury, (860) 651-5646 valleyhomeandgarden.com HAY AND SHAVINGS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

IMPERIAL HAY TRANSPORT Royalton, VT, (802) 234-2141 imperialhaytransport.com Quality New York and Canadian hay; shavings.Maine to Florida.

PLEASANT VIEW FARMS Somers, CT, (860) 803-2777 pleasantviewfarmsinc.com Quality hay, straw, and non-GMO grain.

HORSES FOR SALE

nnnnnnnnnnnn

HERITAGE FARM Easthampton, MA, (413) 527-1612 farmheritage.com Open to buy, sell, or trade horses seven days a week, by appointment.

STRAIN FAMILY HORSE FARM Granby, CT, (860) 653-3275 strainfamilyhorsefarm.com New England’s largest quality sales stable celebrating 50 years.

EQUINE RELATIONSHIPS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

nnnnnnnnnnnn

HORSE LOGIC horse-logic.com What is your horse trying to tell you?

Tuning in to your companion.

Understanding undesired behaviors from the horse’s point of view.

DON RAY INSURANCE (781) 837-6550 donrayinsurance.com Competitive rates, great service, farm packages, event insurance, liability, mortality and major medical.

nnnnnnnnnnnn

FARRIER

LEGAL ADVICE

MATT LEWIS Colchester, CT, (860) 575-2455 foxglovefarm.com Professional horseshoeing for the performance horse.

SEAN T. HOGAN, ESQ. Westport, CT, (203) 221-3250 seanhoganlaw.com Assisting owners, riders, and trainers with equine litigation, equine taxation, land use, ownerships, sales, leases, and USEF and FEI hearings.

FEED AND PET STORES

nnnnnnnnnnnn

BENEDICT’S HOME & GARDEN Monroe, CT, (203) 268-2537 benedictsgarden.com G.M. THOMPSON & SONS Mansfield Depot, (860) 429-9377 gmthompson.net H. H. STONE & SONS Southbury, (203) 264-6501 hhstoneandsons.benmoorepaints.com

40

INSURANCE

nnnnnnnnnnnn

LOANS AND FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

FARM CREDIT EAST (800) 946-0506 farmcrediteast.com Loans for equestrian facilities, farms, bare land. Equipment loans, leases.

Payroll services, farm business consulting, record keeping, appraisals.

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

nnnnnnnnnnnn

MANURE REMOVAL,

TRACTORS/EQUIPMENT

ASSOCIATED REFUSE HAULERS Newtown, CT, (203) 426-8870 associatedrefuse.com Containerized manure removal in southwestern Connecticut.

MIDSTATE TRACTOR AND EQUIPMENT COMPANY Middletown, CT, (860) 347-2531 midstatetractor.com Kubota, John Deere, Scag Power Equipment, Stihl, Honda.

LE MAY, INC. Newtown, CT, (203) 426-2497 (475) 529-8567 (mobile) agrimixmulch.com We buy manure. Containerized manure removal, many options/sizes.

PENDERGAST HAULING AND BARN SERVICES New Fairfield, CT, (203) 948-9493 Manure removal, arena-footing restoration, excavation service.

PHOTOGRAPHY

nnnnnnnnnnnn

JEANNE LEWIS IMAGES Wallingford, CT, jeannelewisimages.com Western events, barn shoots, portraits. Serving New England.

SARAH GROTE PHOTOGRAPHY Cromwell, CT, (860) 301-6647 sarahgrote.com Lifestyle, event, pet, and nature.

REAL ESTATE

nnnnnnnnnnnn

WILLIAM RAVEIS EQUESTRIAN raveis.com Specializing in equestrian lifestyle real estate.

nnnnnnnnnnnn

TRAILERS

nnnnnnnnnnnn

PAUL CONGELOSEI TRAILER SALES Montgomery, NY, (888) 310-2246 congelositrailersales.com Finding just the right trailer? At Congelosi Trailer Sales, it’s easy!

VACATION

nnnnnnnnnnnn

MOUNTAIN TOP INN AND RESORT Chittenden, VT, (802) 483-2311 mountaintopinn.com Vermont’s premier equestrian resort with miles of trails.

VETERINARY

nnnnnnnnnnnn

BROOKLYN-CANTERBURY LARGE ANIMAL CLINIC Canterbury, CT, (860) 546-6998 bclargeanimal.com Serving eastern CT and RI. Equines, farm animals,and camelids.

GRAND PRIX EQUINE Hawleyville, CT, (203) 733-0789 grandprixequine.com Focused care for the performance horse. Johanna Kremberg, DVM, Mark R. Baus, DVM.

RETIREMENT SANCTUARIES

nnnnnnnnnnnn

MITCHELL FARM Salem, CT, (860) 303-8705 mitchellfarm.org Permanent sanctuary for senior horses.

TAYLOR FARM New Hartford, CT, (860) 482-8725 taylorfarmct.com Horse retirement is all we do!

TACK

nnnnnnnnnnnn

ARBITRAGE TACK Oakville, CT, (860) 417-2608 arbitragetack.com New, used saddles; saddle fitting.

MOHAWK DISTRIBUTION Ellington, CT, (860) 490-7509 mohawkdistributionct.com Repping Designs by Loriece, Garroutte Products, and La Victoria Performance.

SMITH-WORTHINGTON SADDLERY Hartford, CT, (860) 527-9117 smithworthington.com Fine English saddlery and tack.

TACK SHACK Somers, CT, (860) 749-2802 tackshack.org Tack shops, awards, embroidery, equine laundry.

CARA KNESER, DVM Bozrah, CT, (860) 823-8951 kneserveterinary.com Mobile 24/7 equine veterinary service.

TWIN PINES EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES Griswold, CT, (860) 376-4373 twinpinesequine.com Quality, compassionate care.

Yes!

Advertise for just $49 a year?

Have your business and services in the print Connecticut Horse and on connhorse.com for just $49 a year. Plus, you receive a free one-year subscription!

Visit connhorse.com/ why-advertise to learn more and email ads@connhorse.com to place your ad!

myAGWAY of Bethel 74 South St., Bethel (203) 743-3232 . myagway.com

myAGWAY of North Haven 66 State St., North Haven (203) 239-1687 . myagway.com

myAGWAY of Manchester 33 Adams St., Manchester (860) 643-5123 . myagway.com

myAGWAY of Southington 1198 Queen St., Southington (860) 410-1726 . myagway.com

myAGWAY of Middlefield 147 Meriden Rd., Middlefield (860) 347-7229 . myagway.com

Benedict’s Home & Garden 480 Purdy Hill Rd., Monroe (203) 268-2537 . benedictsgarden.com

myAGWAY of North Branford 11 Whitewood Ln., North Branford (203) 483-7800 . myagway.com

G. M. Thompson & Sons 54 Middle Tnpk., Mansfield Depot (860) 429-9377 . gmthompson.net

H. H. Stone & Sons 168 Main St. S., Southbury (203) 264-6501 hhstoneandsons.benmoorepaints.com Litchfield Blue Seal Store 99 Thomaston Rd., Litchfield (860) 482-7116 . blueseal.com

Shagbark Lumber & Farm Supply 21 Mt. Parnassus Rd., E. Haddam (860) 873-1946 . shagbarklumber.com Valley Home & Garden Centre 16 Railroad St., Simsbury (860) 651-5646 . valleyhomeandgarden.com

Lock, Stock & Barrel 770 Amity Rd., Bethany (203) 393-0002 . lsbfarmsupply.com Norwich Agway 217 Otrobando Ave., Norwich (860) 889-2344 . norwichagway.com Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

41

Middlefield

Is This Your Horse?

Connecticut’s own Smith-Worthington Saddlery is the proud sponsor of Is This Your Horse?

275 Homestead Ave. Hartford, Connecticut 860 . 527 . 9117 smithworthington.com

42

Sarah Griffin

Crafting fine English saddlery and tack since 1794.

Available at fine tack shops throughout the U.S.

Is this your horse?

This photo was taken at the Flamingo Schooling Show at Epic Farm in Middlefield. If this is your horse, contact us at win@connhorse.com for a Smith-Worthington Saddlery leather halter and a two-year subscription to Connecticut Horse!

Connecticut Horse January/February 2019

Connecticut Horse

43

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BRIDGEPORT, CT PERMIT

#140