THE PREMIER MAGAZINE
OF EQUESTRIAN LIFE
E Q U E S T R I A N Q U A R T E R LY
E Q U E S TR I A N SUMMER 2013
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Q U A R T E R L Y
Mindy Peters Combining Hollywood and Arabian Horses
Let There Be Light
S U MM ER | 2 0 13
EQ GOES BEHIND THE SCENES AT LE SAUT HERMÈS I N PA R I S PLUS: FASHION | DECOR | PEOPLE | STYLE | TR AV E L
DISPLAY UNTIL SEPT 15, 2013
America’s top equestrian architects share their barn-design secrets
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Ph. Tiziano Scaffai
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE Made in Italy
W W W. F R A N C O T U C C I . C O M
Marilyn Hoffman The One Hundred Million Dollar Realtor
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n addition to having sold over $100,000,000 in equestrian properties, Marilyn Hoffman is the only broker to have a $100,000,000 Texas equestrian estate.
Marilyn Hoffman, an International Realtor specializing in selling equestrian properties, recently sold a $13,500,000 Alabama horse ranch to the owners of a Scottish castle. This sale represents the largest and most expensive residential property ever sold in Alabama. This is just one of the many records made by Marilyn Hoffman, who has been in the sale of unique properties for 33 years. Her most recent sale was a $20,000,000 Midwest estate that she listed, sold and closed for full price in 24 days. This 35,000 sq. ft home was the largest and most expensive sale in the state. Marilyn also sold Charbonnet, a 35,000 sq ft. home in Louisiana, also the largest home sold in the state of Louisiana.
“Marilyn’s aggressive approach to the international marketing of the property resulted in a completed transaction in five months from start to finish. I’d hasten to add that the prior agencies failed completely to do any effective marketing of Brantley Manor, although I did spend a substantial upfront marketing fee with them.” Eugene L. Brantley, Esquire Seller of a 13,000 sq. ft. South Carolina mansion
Marilyn Hoffman is the only broker in the world to regularly exhibit and promote her listings at the world’s top events, attended by potential buyers for her exclusive listings. For example, she had the only real estate at the prestigious Carousal of Hope Ball in Beverly Hills. Other exhibits include the BarrettJackson Classic Car Auction in Scottsdale, the International Safari Show in Reno and Dallas, the Salon de Cheval in Paris, the Bal de la Mer in Monte Carlo, the March of Dimes Ball, the Heart Ball in Palm Beach, the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, the Thalians Ball and the Starkey Foundation in Beverly Hills, the Winter Equestrian Festival, the Quarter Horse Congress, the Dallas Dressage Show, the NCHA World Championship Futurity, the Rolex Three Day Event and many other prestigious events. Bloomfield Manor
Marilyn Hoffman and National Champion Stallion, Ultimate Bey.
The largest home in Lexington. This 24,000 sq. ft. English Manor is only $6,500,000. www.KentuckysFinestEstate.com
The Ultimate Country Estate
www.PleasantValleyManor.net A rare opportunity to own one of the world’s great estates, this 50,000 sq. ft. three story Georgian Manor is just 5,000 sq. ft. smaller than the White House, but much newer and grander. Secluded on 200 acres with stables, carriage house with security command center. Offered far below replacement value at only $12,500,000. To buy or sell your equestrian property, call
Marilyn Hoffman | Hoffman International Properties w w w. M a g n i f i c e n t P r o p e r t i e s . c o m D a l l a s 2 1 4 - 6 9 8 - 1 7 3 6 | F o r t Wo r t h 8 1 7 - 3 9 9 - 1 1 1 9 | C e l l 2 1 4 - 6 7 4 - 3 9 6 1 Lexington 859-523-2812 | Greenwich 203-622-3939
Inside
SUMMER | 2013 ISSUE
F E AT U R E S
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M I N DY P E T E R S C O M B I N E S H O L LY WO O D A N D H O R S E S Visit with Arabian horse breeder Mindy Peters at her home in Beverly Hills, and at her sprawling Arabian horse farm in California’s Santa Ynez Valley.
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I N S I D E T H E H E R MÈ S AT E L I E R EQ had rare access inside the Hermès saddlemaking studio. Witness the skillful ar tisans at work, making each saddle by hand, one stitch at a time.
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B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S AT L E S AU T H E R MÈ S Travel behind the scenes with EQ’s photography director, George Kamper, as he captures the essence of this elegant show jumping event.
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AT H O M E W I T H C A I T A N D B E R N I E T R AU R I G One of the most sought after clinicians in the country, Bernie Traurig brings world-class trainers right to your home with his equestriancoach.com.
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An expert panel enlightens us on the secrets of barn design.
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LET THERE BE LIGHT Take a look at the many facets of designing and building a quality horse barn, from incorporating the latest technology to adding elegant touches of luxury.
Inside DEPARTMENTS
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SUMMER | 2013 ISSUE
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FAVORITES The archetypical rocking horse has entertained children and inspired designers for hundreds of years, from the classic and antique to the minimalist and modern.
DECOR Vermont ar tist Lisa Curry Mair blends modern patterns with historical traditions into her imaginative folk-ar t murals and floorcloths.
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10 Editor’s Note
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GIVING BACK Meet Danny & Ron, founders of Danny and Ron Rescue, known throughout the horseshow world as the partners who have found homes for over 6,000 neglected dogs.
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PEOPLE Animal trainer, Robin Wiltshire, has worked with the Budweiser Clydesdales to create some of TV’s most memorable moments. Discover how this Australian horseman became a Wyoming cowboy.
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STYLE Join equestrianstyle blogger Molly Knott as she looks at the products of Manifattura Valor. These halters, blankets, and pads are handcrafted from all-natural materials, and set the new standard in “horse couture.”
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FA S H I O N It seems equestrian attire is making a fashion statement for men too as more and more fashion-forward equestrians are adopting the barn wear to street wear trend.
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BARN DOGS Peanut and Tuna, the little French Bulldogs with huge personalities, are living the good life with Holly Hugo-Vidal in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.
86 Science Impor ting a horse and quarantine can seem daunting, but James Lala makes it his mission to help horses safely through the process. 90 Travel Looking for a travel spot that’s off the beaten path? This cozy resor t in a small village in the Czech Republic offers an authentic slice of the equestrian life. 94 Marketplace 96 Resources (Look for to find the products and services in this issue.)
O N T H E C OV E R : Mindy Peters shot on location at her Arabian horse farm in Los Alamos, Calif. (Photo: George Kamper)
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Welcome “Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.” –Seneca
I Editor Stephanie Peters and EQ photography director George Kamper at Hermès Le Saut in Paris.
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recently stumbled upon this quote and thought about how much it pertained to this issue and the creative team that put it together. In the last issue I mentioned EQ would be traveling, and travel we did. And, as somewhat of an homage to the Roman philosopher’s quote, our team returned invigorated. Our West-Coast visit led us to Mindy Peters in Hollywood and Los Alamos, Calif., home to her regal Arabian horses. Outside of San Diego, renowned trainer Bernie Traurig and wife, Cait, entertained us with engaging stories beneath the fronds of their tiki hut, and author and instructor Holly Hugo-Vidal introduced us to not one but two of this issue’s celebrated barn dogs. We covered a lot of territory and met fabulous equestrians. Some you will read about here, and others we’ll save for future issues. But eventually, you will meet them all on the pages of EQ. Our photography director, George Kamper, and I were invited by Hermès to attend this year’s Le Saut in Paris, an international showjumping event so elegant and grand that we decided to let George’s photographs tell the story. This is a case where images speak deafeningly louder than words. Frankly, I’m not sure words could ever aptly describe what the French can do with a simple egg. George and I also had the rare opportunity to tour the Hermès saddle-making atelier, atop their flagship store in Paris, and to speak with their skilled artisans. Perhaps we were intoxicated by the smell of fine leather, but it seemed impossible to leave without a new appreciation of the beauty and artistry of their hand-crafted saddles. Virtual travel also provided our editors with inspiration. EQ readers will meet some of the premier equine architects in the country. They are visionaries in their field who are rich with innovative and creative approaches to barn design. Not only are their barns stunningly beautiful,
they are also carefully designed to keep horses healthy and happy too. A SING L E F O C U S
As I reviewed the articles for this issue, I discovered a common theme that found its way into most of the stories. While not revelatory, it was still comforting to realize that for most of us, the primary focus is always on the horse. The Hermès equestrian directors emphasize this when designing a saddle; they focus closely on the movement, flexibility, and comfort of the horse. The primary focus of our equestrian-facility architects is also on the health and well-being of the horse. Read what a difference light can make! As an Arabian horse breeder, Mindy Peters focuses heavily on the type, beauty, and depth of pedigree of her horses. Focus was always at the core of George Kamper’s coverage of Hermès Le Saut, whether capturing a horse’s mane in vivid clarity or blurring a rider to dramatize the movement and thrill of competition. At the end of our travels, I realized it isn’t just the articles we come away with, it is the people we meet, the stories they share, and the wisdom they impart. We not only become invigorated by our journey, we become wiser in the process. COMIN G U P
We have lots in the pipeline for our upcoming issues. Show jumper Ashlee Bond will be chatting with us. Plus we’ll have a special feature on the Sport of Kings. In “Polo Across America,” we will be meeting famous players synonymous with polo, as well as up-and-coming riders just getting a taste for the thrill of the sport. There will be lots of surprises. Look for more beautiful farms, interesting people, and unexpected ideas for travel, design, and fashion in the next EQ.
THE HAMPTON CLASSIC Top - Bottom, Photos courtesy of The Book, LLC, Liz Soroka, Lenny Stucker Photography - Right: Shawn McMillen Photography
August 25 - September 1, 2013
Competition in 6 Rings • 70+ Boutiques • International Food Court Petting Zoo • Pony Rides • General Admission - $10/person or $20/carload Dogs are not allowed in the boutique garden, seating areas, or, of course, left in your car!
featuring the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix on Sunday, September 1st For information about advertising, VIP tables, the competition schedule, reserved tickets (required for Grand Prix Sunday), sponsorship opportunities, email info@hamptonclassic.com or visit www.hamptonclassic.com Hampton Classic Horse Show Inc. P.O. Box 3013, 240 Snake Hollow Road, Bridgehampton, NY 11932
L-R, Photos courtesy of Jennifer Thomas (2), ESI Photography
EQUESTRIAN
Q U A R T E R L Y
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SUMMER 2013 VOLUME 2 NUMBER 2 EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters EDITORS AT LARGE Georgina Bloomberg and Ann Leary DEPUTY EDITOR Jill B. Medinger DESIGN MANAGER Mar y A. Stroup PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR George Kamper EDITORIAL MANAGER Rose DeNeve EQ SPECIAL EVENTS Jennifer Pearman Lammer CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Abigail Googel, Molly Knott, Renee Spurge, Betsy Stein, Sue Weakley, Carrie Wir th INTERNS Maggie For tune, Abigail Googel, Kady Hobbins, Skylar McMurray EQUESTRIANQUARTERLY.COM TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Matt Tarsi PUBLISHER C. W. Medinger ADVERTISING SALES NATIONAL SALES MANAGER: Linda Andersen, 603-718-1478, C:978-807-7640, andersen@equestrianquar terly.com EASTERN REGION, Karen Gaconnier, 631-793-0182, gaconnier@equestrianquar terly.com SOUTHEASTERN REGION, Christian Palmer, 612-618-8216, palmer@equestrianquar terly.com WESTERN REGION, Anne Marie St. John-Brooks, 415-385-5191, StJohnBrooks@equestrianquar terly.com CONSULTANTS George Fuller, Kristin Ackerman PR/PRESS INQUIRIES Carrie Wir th, Phelps Media Group, Wellington, FL, 561-753-3389 NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Teri Combs, RCS Magazines, Richard Trummer, Cur tis Circulation Co. PRINT & DISTRIBUTION Rena Rully, Brown Printing, New York, NY EQ ADVISORY BOARD COLLEGE RIDING Bob Cacchione, Founder IHSA WELLINGTON DRESSAGE Carol Cohen, Wellington, FL THERAPEUTIC RIDING Patty Coyle, PATH, Pegasus, Brewster, NY CHERRY KNOLL FARMS Margaret Duprey, Wellington, FL FUTURE CONCEPTS J. Stanley Edwards DRESSAGE Katja Eilders, FEI Master German Classical Dressage, CT GRAND CHAMPIONS POLO CLUB Melissa Ganzi, Wellington, FL OLYMPIC SILVER MEDALIST/SHOW JUMPING Peter Leone, Lionshare Farm, Greenwich, CT HUNTER/JUMPER TRAINER AND REINING LEGENDS Colleen and Tim McQuay, Tioga, TX EQUESTRIAN REAL ESTATE Katie Murphy, Luxequestrian.com OLYMPIAN AND PRESIDENT OF PHELPS MEDIA GROUP Mason Phelps, Wellington, FL ARABIAN HORSES Mindy Peters, Los Alamos, Ca HUNTER/JUMPER WEST Chris Pratt, Los Angeles, CA EQUESTRIAN FASHION Renee Spurge, LA Saddler y, Los Angeles, CA COMBINED DRIVING LEGEND Chester Weber, Ocala, FL EQUESTRIAN QUARTERLY is published four times yearly and is distributed at selected equestrian locations, newsstands and available for home deliver y for $18.95/$21.95 Canada. Subscribe: equestrianquar terly.com/subscribe or EQ, Box One, Brownsville, VT 05037. Subscription management and address changes: www.equestrianquar terly.com/subscription Editorial inquiries and letters to the editor: info@equestrianquar terly.com WYNNWOOD MEDIA LLC 41 East 11th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10003 © 2013 All rights reser ved, Wynnwood Media, LLC . No por tion may be reproduced in print or online without written permission. ® Equestrian Quar terly and EQ are registered trademarks of Wynnwood Media.
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Favorites From the modern to the antique, A ROCKING HORSE can make a sentimental gift or add the perfect accent to any room.
ROCKING HORSE Equinely executed of hand-forged iron and ceremoniously hand-painted by Indian artisans, it’s a work of art – not a toy. Just 17" tall, this accent piece from Pier1 can bring life to any room.
12 F R I E N D LY TOYS’ P E R S O N A L I Z ED ROCKING HORSE Etsy shop, Friendly Toys offers this eco-friendly rocking toy, personalized however you’d like. Safe for children, this simple horse stands 32" tall.
Unique Designs Bring New Life to an Old Favorite
EUROP E ’ S FAVO R I T E ROCKIN G H O R S E Made from wood, leather, and wool, this classic horse from the Kensington Rocking Horse Company offers a fun range of extra goodies, from saddles with real stirrups, to bridles, blankets, and ribbons.
GIOCO RO C K I N G H ORSE From the Babino Collection of Zanini de Zanine, this minimalist rocking horse is suitable for children 18 months - 5 years old. Made from pure methacrylate and available in a variety of solid and translucent colors.
PLAYSAM ROCKI N G H O R S E Designed in Sweden, this small horse is safe for children over one year, with a seat height of 12". Made of European wood, it’s sleek design will please child and parent.
C H E VA L A S ASCULE E N ROT I N This French rattan antique is both fun and elegant. The comfortable seat and wide rocker make it nearly as comfortable as a normal chair, but it’s unique shape and rarity make it an excellent decor addition. Continued on page 16
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Favorites
Continued from page 14
DECORATIVE WOOD AND WIRE ROCKING HORSE This small vintage rocking horse is made of black wire metal and beautiful wood in brown finish. Just 8" tall, it can adorn the shelves of any room and lend a charming playfulness.
GIDDYUP ROCKING STOOL This rocker, designed by Tim Wigmore, utilizes pre-owned saddles in an attempt to elevate people’s perception of the old and used. Heights vary as do the saddles used, but the sturdy wooden base assures plenty of practical use, though not by young children.
WO O D E N RO CKING HORSE Designed for children over two years, this rocker is half chair, half horse. Made from natural wood and all smooth surfaces, it is a simple and lovely addition to a child’s room.
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Unique Designs Bring New Life to an Old Favorite ROCKIN G S Q UA R E S A life-sized rocking horse, re-imagined by designer Frederik Roijé. Made of wood and finished with a durable coating. Sizes range from 4' - 8' tall. Available in black or white.
SWINGER ROCKING HORSE Sold by Always Hobbies as a plan from which to build, the finished product swings back and forth in a unique take on the rocking horse. Sturdy, easy and fun to make, and over 30" tall, this project would be great for an older child.
VINTAGE WOOD C A RO U S E L HO R S E Taking its cue from a vintage carousel figure, this carved wood horse from Restoration Hardware is tasteful furniture and practical plaything in one.
More information and sources:
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PAGE 96
Giving Back “ Within the heart of every stray lies the simple desire to be loved. He is your friend and partner; you are his life, his leader. He will be faithful and true to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.” –DANNY A N D RO N BY BETSY STEIN | PHOTOS JULIE J. PRICKETT
Y
ears ago, tack rooms at hunter/jumper shows used to be inhabited by fancy purebred dogs. Now you’ll see a motley assortment of mostly mixed-breed canines, proudly sporting Danny and Ron Rescue (D&RR) bandanas. It is not unusual to see a golf cart cruising the show grounds or parked by the schooling areas with the D&RR logo, driven by volunteers and teeming with dogs looking for homes. Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta were well known in the horse world long before they
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Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta have devoted their lives–as well as their home–to rescuing and finding homes for abused and abandoned dogs.
started rescuing dogs. Together they operate Beaver River Farm in South Carolina, and they have trained or ridden many successful show hunters over the years. They serve as judges and committee members for the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) and the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF). Dan and Ron have been able to build upon their reputations within the horse world to further their mission of saving and caring for dogs. Aside from rescuing abused, abandoned, and starving dogs, they are passionate about educating the public on the importance of spaying, neutering, housing, and caring for dogs, and opposing puppy mills and dog fightContinued on page 20
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Continued from page 18
ing. They also provide medical help for those who cannot afford vet bills and would otherwise not be able to keep their pets–in many cases elderly owners, to whom the companionship of their dogs is so important. SP R E A D I N G T H E WO R D
Many riders have jumped on the mission bandwagon, helping to raise funds by donating prize money or organizing events. Young juniors set up boot-polishing stations to help the cause. Dr. Betsee Parker and Charlotte Jacobs are some of the well-known names on the circuit that have taken the cause to heart and donate their winnings to D&RR. This past season, Jennifer Chopping organized a silent auction that raised $24,000. Bidders could take part online or at the Aiken Spring Classic, where the auction culminated with a Mexican Fiesta. Horse shows help too. For example, The Vermont Summer Festival ran a raffle, and the show matched the $5,000 raised. Horse Shows by the Bay in Michigan ran a kick-ball game night and the Lip-Sync Gala in Wellington has become a favored annual event of the circuit. Danny and Ron started in the early 1990s, visiting a local shelter and pulling dogs from the euthanasia list. In 1996, Dan suffered a back injury, which kept him out of the saddle for a while but allowed him the time to get more involved with rescue work. After Hurricane Katrina the need grew, and by 2008 D&RR was officially created as a 501(c)3 non-profit.
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Above, Beaver River Farm in South Carolina, where nearly 6,000 rescue dogs have lived in Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta’s home with them. That way Danny and Ron get to know each dog personally and can best find them the perfect forever home.
To date they are nearing the mark of having helped their 6,000th dog–most of which have actually lived in their home with them. That way they get to know each dog personally and better plan every dog’s rehabilitation treatment and placement. When asked how do they do it all, they answered in unison, “Teamwork! Our team is made up of one full-time friend/employee, Karen Odom, who lives on the property and helps care for the dogs, and Michael Schofield, who does all of the driving of our bus and
comes in during the days to help socialize the animals. The local vets help by donating their time.” The dogs themselves are also part of the team. There are no foster families or kennels. The dogs live as a pack and, according to Ron,“they work it out among themselves.” Confident dogs help shy ones and resident dogs teach new ones the routines. Each dog gets their own assigned eating space in different rooms. They learn where and when they are fed, and that they can’t be food aggressive. “And,” Danny added, “needless to say, there are a lot of vacuuming and cleaning chores that go with keeping all of the dogs in the house!” With the 6,000 dogs that live at or have been through Dan and Ron’s home, there are so many stories to pull at your heart strings. These stories often start with malnourished, frightened dogs chained outside, or puppies found in boxes by highways, or dogs used for fighting or as bait, or other unimaginable abuses. But thanks to Dan’s and Ron’s combined commitment and tireless efforts, there are also 6,000 stories of dogs finding loving homes, working as therapy dogs, and traveling to horse shows. There’s “Pee-Wee,” now helping a family by alerting them to their son’s seizures. Or “Little One,” who lost an eye and lived with them for three years before finding her forever home. Or the one left from the over 300 Katrina dogs, still too shy to be petted but sleeping on their bed every night. (See more about D&RR in the EQ Barn Dogs stories in the Winter and Spring issues.) PAGE 96.
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People Meet trainer ROBIN WILTSHIRE, the man who makes Budweiser’s Clydesdales the highlight of Superbowl parties.
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LENS BY LIZBAH
T
hough you might not recognize his name, Robin Wiltshire’s work is famous. In fact, it’s viewed by audiences of millions each year. For the past 15 years, Wiltshire, a charming Australian-turned-Wyoming-cowboy, has trained the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales for the Super Bowl commercials that are nearly as anticipated and talked about as the game itself. Growing up in Australia, riding and driving the horses on his father’s farm, Robin had never seen a western saddle. His family used Clydesdales to plow the fields and rake the hay, and he learned to work with them and to appreciate the kindness and intelligence of
PEGGY DEVENS
BY JILL MEDINGER
Top, “Wild West”, the 2011 Super Bowl ad was filmed on location in the wide plains of the Northwest. Above, the complex tricks involved in the memorable “Circus” commercial for Budweiser’s 2009 Super Bowl spot begin with a simple jump.
the draft horses. But he had always loved the American West and wanted to experience its beauty for himself. These days, on his Turtle Ranch in Wyoming, he rides all the time: “It’s the only way, when you’re on 3,000 acres, to get around. It’s too long to walk, and too steep for four-wheelers.” When he arrived in the U.S., he was hired to train horses to perform simple tasks such as rearing or lying down. He progressed from there until in July of 1995, when he was asked by a production company, “Can horses be trained to play football?” What resulted was a scene that amazed and charmed viewers, in which two entire “teams” of Clydesdales lined up to begin a full-on American football game, including blocks, passes, and kicks. Since then, the commerContinued on page 24
Be l l e M e a d ow Fa r M M o n t p e l i e r , VA
Stunning and exceptional equestrian property situated on 43 manicured acres in historic Montpelier, Virginia. Belle Meadow Farm is beautifully positioned at the end of a private drive lined with mature Crape Myrtles, this custom built stone and timber arts and Crafts home features 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. with a dramatic 33 feet foyer and formal living room featuring a wall of custom Pella glass windows and a floor to ceiling stone fireplace, this country estate offers a private setting with close proximity to urban amenities. with a full compliment of horse facilities including a 40 feet indoor riding arena, stables and up to 2 hours of private riding trail, this stately home’s appeal is endless. other features include Grottoe Styled accent swimming pool, open gourmet kitchen and private detached guest quarters. asking Price: $3,995,000
Jennifer Harlow TTR Sotheby’s International Realty 703.869.9632 | jharlow@ttrsir.com www.jenniferharlow.ttrsir.com
Uniting extraordinary lifestyles with extraordinary properties
Continued from page 22
cameras, props, and extras all add to the commotion for which the animals must be ready. Seemingly small details, such as the size of a bucket the horse is asked to carry or the fence it needs to look over, can mean hours of prop-building and training.
cials he has worked on have ranged from the very funny, all-horse snowball fight to an emotional and moving September 11th tribute.
L I T T L E P R E P TIME
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T R A I N P E O P L E TO O
Many of the people who work on a commercial have no idea what a horse needs, wants, and can do. Robin laughingly remembers a director insisting a horse eat a meat treat, made for dogs. “I had to tell them, they’re not cannibals, they don’t eat those!” His matterof-fact manner and his gentle sensitivity to the well-being of the horses and their limits seem out of place, yet invaluable, in the fast-paced world of TV. “Half the time, the director gets in there and makes a change that can put everything you’ve done upside-down,” he says, “You’ll have trained the horse to scratch his left ear, and suddenly, when the director sees the light in the barn, he’ll turn him around and he’ll need to use his right ear. People say, ‘Why not train him to use both?’ It’s because you don’t want to give him too much. There’s so little time to prepare, you don’t want to give him too many directions. “The Clydesdales are smart, kind, and intelligent. And there is nothing better to look at than one of these horses in a freshly bedded stall. But you know you’ve had a long day when they lay down in there snoring. Especially the foals, it’s a lot for those little guys, their first time out in the big world.” COURTESY TURTLE RNCH
From the time Wiltshire receives the ideas from the production company for a commercial to the time it is filmed is often less than a month. This short period is spent wherever the shoot will be, teaching the horses and their co-stars their tricks, while acclimatizing the animals to all sorts of foreign experiences and places. “We will often have several animals learn the same trick,” Wiltshire says. “You want to avoid putting too much pressure on the animals, and so we’ll have two or three back-ups to learn the same things, so they can relax.” Once training has begun, the amount of people the animals are exposed to is as limited as possible, and Robin insists on doing the morning and evening feedings himself. “It’s an important time, and I want to make sure they tune in to me and my voice,” he explains. Training is done with lots of repetition and pats, plus some candy and grain. “But you can’t treat them all the time, or you’ll have one very fat Clydesdale. They love to eat,” he laughs. As training progresses, prompts and praise from Robin are all that is needed to encourage their amazing performances. In addition to the Budweiser Clydesdales, Wiltshire’s list of credits include Wells Fargo,
Robin works closely with the horses for the short time they are together, tuning them in to his voice and his movements.
Chevrolet, and Phillip Morris commercials and the recent Academy Award nominee, Django Unchained, which featured horses from Wiltshire’s own Turtle Ranch. IT’S REAL
Because these scenes include little to no computer animation, the interactions between the horse, the set, the actors, and the other animals must all be carefully prepared for, in the interest of accuracy and safety. Animals such as sheep and dogs are introduced slowly to the giant horses, and props such as falling snow or footballs are first simulated using what is available. Lighting,
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Style Ask any style blogger and they will tell you their favorite part of the job is connecting with designers and brands from around the globe. For equestrian-style blogger, MOLLY KNOTT, the excitement doubles when she discovers incredible items for rider and horse.
A
n email arrives. From the extension in the address, I can tell it’s from Europe. “Please take a look at our new collection,” or some variation is how these messages usually read. “Rich deerskin leather appliques, intricately hand-woven fabrics, an exquisitely flattering fit.” Is this describing something from the runways of fashion week? I scan further… Decidedly, no. 26 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RTERLY | SUMMER | 2013
From the epicenter of fashion, Manifattura Valor creates couture-quality horsewear imbued with the traditional crafts and materials of the Italian Alps. In fact, Valor may be the only collection of horse blankets, saddle pads, and halters in the world to posses such a distinctive “terroir” of their handcrafted origin. Valor’s wool comes from small, sustainablyraised and free-roaming flocks of alpine sheep. Left untreated and spun to different weights and patterns, the blankets range from a
slightly-spun peacock texture all the way up to sharply-spun smooth herringbones worthy of a custom Italian suit. It is gorgeous, and fashion, of course, can afford to be a statement-only affair on the street or the red carpet. We’ve all sacrificed comfort to look good. But, for a horse, it must absolutely function in the stable, too. As the editor of Dappled Grey, I’m always seeking this fashion/function balance. Valor Continued on page 94
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Fashion B A R N W E A R to S T R E E TWEAR A GENTLEMAN’S ATTIRE
While I am grateful to live in a time that allows me the freedom to be an independent, free-spirited, and entrepreneurial woman, I still value the importance of A G E N T L E M A N W I T H S T Y L E . BY RENEE SPURGE The Animo Illusion Show Jacket doubles as a modern blazer paired here with casual slacks and Tucci boots.
F
rom opening the car door, to complimenting his lady’s new dress, a 21st century man should always conduct himself with dignity and grace. That goes for his attire as well. Because ladies’ equestrian fashion is so prolific and in such high demand, it seems that our equestrian men tend to get the short end of the riding crop! However that is not due to a lack of selection in men’s riding clothing; it’s because men do not shop like women. But that is slowly changing as the mobile tack stores are growing exponentially at the horse shows, giving men the opportunity to shop while at the barn instead of making a second trip. I am also always pleasantly surprised when the men walking the show grounds look polished and put together. Most of them sport classic polo shirts or button-down shirts, always neatly tucked in with a sleek leather belt. They rarely have their boot zippers undone and almost never show in the jumper arena without a proper coat. Continued on page 30
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A gentleman can never go wrong with a fitted polo shir t and a pair of classic tan Pikeur Rodrigo riding pants.
The waterproof and breathable nubuck leather makes the rustic Sergio Grasso Car thago Boot and Calypso chap the perfect combo for everyday riding.
Fashion B A R N W E A R TO S T R E E T W E A R Continued from page 28
Custom Made For Over 50 Years Made In The USA
1.800.DER.DAU.6 • www.derdau.com
Winston Equestrian, a small boutique line of elegant riding apparel from Belgium, offers a wide selection of options for men to customize their show coat.
Visit Our Booth And Ask About Our New Line of Dream Boots. Also Try On Our Wide Selection of Signature Polos and Breeches
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Men are much less fussy about colors, rarely concerned about their weight, and often don’t care how others perceive them, which allows for more creativity when outfitting them. I appreciate that most of them have classic style sensibilities and know that you if you want a nicely cut jacket and pant, quality trumps quantity every time. Men’s equestrian fashion can also crossover into everyday wear as well. While my husband prefers to ride a steel horse, his closet has an abundance of Joules and Animo polo shirts. My dad, who I am fairly certain has not been on a horse in over 30 years, has a beautiful pair of Tucci paddock boots that he wears with his suits. Some of my personal favorites in men’s riding apparel are the Whitaker riding breech, the
Winston Exclusive Show Jacket, and the Tucci Time Harley tall boots. But whatever his personal brand, a true equestrian gentleman will know that he looks only as good as the beautiful horse he rides. PAGE 96
Owner, Renee Spurge LA Saddlery has opened the California equestrian market to companies from all over the world. They present new clothing lines that challenge the traditional riding outfit with fresh ideas, high-performance fabrics, and fashion-forward details. The main store is located in the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, California and the mobile boutique frequents many of the top California horse shows. www.lasaddlery.com
Everglades Farm WELLINGTON, FLORIDA
Let Your Heart Gallop
Fourteen acres of equestrian paradise in Grand Prix Village adjacent to the Winter Equestrian Festival show grounds complete with every amenity for the well being of horse and rider. This equestrian masterpiece houses twenty 14 x 14 stalls, eight grass paddocks, a grass Grand Prix arena, an expansive 215’ x 105’ covered arena and a 216’ x 88’ outdoor arena, both with mirrors and excellent footing. The luxurious owner’s apartment has two bedrooms, two and half baths, spacious living areas and a beautifully appointed kitchen. The farm also has an elegant 2-3 bedroom manager’s apartment and a deluxe groom’s apartment. This exclusive equestrian estate with its premier location is truly one of the world’s most desirable equestrian properties.
The equestrian world’s most sought after address ENGEL& VÖLKERS® Carol A. Sollak, P.A. carol.sollak@evusa.com 561.818.9476
www.carolsollak.com
BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
H O L LY W O O D A N D H O R S E S EQ first became familiar with MINDY PETERS shortly after a dramatic Hollywood-esque rescue of a prized Arabian stallion named William, who was spooked during a beachfront photo shoot. He swam three miles out to sea and treaded water for three hours before a crew in a boat spotted him and safely towed him back to shore. The event became the subject of national media coverage. Upon reading her heartfelt quotes after the rescue, we became infinitely curious about Arabians and Mindy’s history with the breed. “We were scared to death he was going to drown,” Mindy said. “He’s absolutely part of our family.” Our visit with Mindy took place in two locations: her secluded Beverly Hills home, and her 120-acre Santa Ynez, Calif., home to her Arabian horses.
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A
A B E V E R LY H ILLS TREEHOUSE
Beverly Hills address conjures up images of imposing gates, threatening guard dogs, and sprawling mansions with too many rooms to recall. Mindy Peters’ home, in the heart of this tony neighborhood, is a pleasant antithesis of the Hollywood stereotype. Once past the requisite yet innovatively designed entrance gate, Mindy’s home is approached from a narrow, steep-pitched drive that plateaus next to an expansive stone terrace and a secluded tennis court. From there one climbs a series of shaded steps or boards the small incline lift to the welcoming courtyard of the main entrance. Mindy and her assistant, Joanna Rose (who has also home schooled Mindy’s daughter Kendyl for six years), invited us into the warm,
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airy, and tastefully decorated home. Any preconceived notions of the Beverly Hills manse evaporated into the welcoming environment of family photos, fine art, and awards that ran the gamut from the Academy of Arts and Science movie award for Jon Peters’ Superman, to the equestrian ribbons accrued by Kendyl. Periodpiece horse paintings share display space with intricate movie models and iconic props that peer out from their protective glass encasements. The house, built in 1976, has had an impressive mix of owners. Actor Kate Jackson was the first, followed by musician Kenny G, and tennis pro Pete Sampras. Mindy actually learned to play tennis on Pete’s remodeled tennis court and became quite accomplished. “I was playing 15 hours a week but had to drop it after a while because of too many obligations,” she explained. Mindy’s house, privately nestled into a steep hillside in Beverly Hills, feels relaxed and casual. “I think of it as my little tree house. It’s seven minutes from here to Rodeo Drive, but I
Opposite page: An intimate courtyard welcomes visitors to the home’s entrance. This page, clockwise: Shaded steps leading to the entrance end under a vine-covered arbor. A rustic birdhouse is one of several throughout the property. Sampson, a Sulcata tortoise, has full run of the grounds. Dense plantings surround the sparkling pool and provide complete privacy.
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The inviting, airy living room is a rich blend of furnishings, artwork, awards, and family photographs. Clusters of orchids ornament rooms throughout the house.
feel like I am really away,” Mindy said. Atrium doors and wisteria-covered pergolas lead to an intimate garden and sparkling pool. Lemon groves cover acres of the hillside behind the home, and plans to add a vineyard on the steep slopes are in the works. Dogs abound, and Sampson, the family’s Sulcata tortoise, roams freely in the garden and occasionally into the house. While utterly gracious and breathtakingly beautiful, Mindy is a no-nonsense, business-
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savvy woman who is in constant motion, juggling numerous projects, fielding calls, and communicating with rapid-fire texts. At the time of our interview she was in the process of launching her own healthy lifestyle show and collaborating on several movie projects, with one scheduled to begin filming in Africa in the fall. But it is clearly her Arabian horses and the successful breeding program she has built in the Santa Ynez valley that is her primary focus and absolute passion.
Opposite page, clockwise: Mindy relaxes and chats with EQ. An antique rocking horse, impor ted from England, was a Christmas gift to Mindy’s daughter Kendyl. Walls of period paintings reflect Mindy’s lifelong love of horses.
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Opposite page, clockwise from top: Mindy’s chefs surprised EQ with a wonderful lunch. A prototype, designed by Tim Burton and Jon Peters for the new Superman movie, Man of Steel. The iconic gopher from the movie Caddyshack. Family photos add to the welcoming environment. Prestigious awards blend quietly into the home’s décor. Small vignettes of books, flowers, and vintage objects reflect Mindy’s tasteful eye. Mindy takes a quiet respite amidst some objets d’art.
Although the property encompasses 1.5 acres, it doesn’t provide the space necessary to stable her 50 prized Arabians, or allow them the sprawling paddocks found at the 120-acre setting they enjoy in the Santa Ynez valley.
M
indy is a third-generation Arabian horse breeder in her family. Her grandfather, Ed Brinkert of Hartley, Iowa, bred his first mare to an Arabian stallion in 1957. Eventually the Brinkert operation, which was named MaRoSh, expanded to as many as 60 horses. His focus always SANTA YNEZ; WHERE THE remained on type, beauty, and the depth of ARABIANS ROAM pedigree. “He called Arabians the ‘drinkers of Joanna, our exceptional tour guide, loaded us the wind’ and encouraged me to treasure their onto mules for a tour of the landscape that surrounds the barn and paddocks. Lush green, vine- inherent and distinctive qualities,” says Mindy. Her aunt, Shelly Brinkert Hjelm, was covered hillsides expand out in all directions, and another mentor and source of inspiration graceful willow trees shimmer in the sun. It is for Mindy. She taught her about the practiquiet and peaceful and idyllic for an equestrian cal aspects of caring for horses as well as the lifestyle. While Mindy was relaxed and animated at our importance of their pedigree. They spent time together showing, trail riding, and camping Beverly Hills photo session, she simply beamed in the mountains with their horses. “I used to with pride while giving us a tour of the barn follow her around the barns, help with the vets, and an introduction to some of her magnificent and help condition the horses. I could get lost mares, stallions, and foals. She spoke enthusiout there for hours, brushing, grooming, and astically about her passion for Arabians and her exercising the horses,” Mindy says. commitment to educating people about the rich In addition to the breeding program, Mindy heritage and royalty that flows through this often hopes to promote the breed and to educate misunderstood breed. (see The Arabian, a breed people about their versatility. “If someone is for all, page 43) Continued on 42
MY FAVORITE HORSE Belle Song HVP. Belle Song was born in Brazil and spent the first several years in the international show ring, winning many accolades. When I got her, I retired her
Favorites MINDY PETERS
MY FAVORITE PET is Kahn, my German Shepherd. I’ve had Kahn since he was a baby. He follows me all over the farm, and especially loves playing with the foals.
and healing to children living in some of the most destitute communities in Cambodia.
writer who combines folk, rock, and soul music. MY FAVORITE WEEKEND GETAWAY Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California. Nestled into the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, the Post Ranch Inn exudes romance and relaxation.
MY FAVORITE WEBSITE is arabhorse.com
PHOTOS KODIAK GREENWOOD
from showing and developed a deep love and admiration for her. In spite of the stress she endured in the show ring, she has developed into a trusting mare that exudes beauty, dignity, and elegance. MY FAVORITE CAR is a 1945 Chevy pick up–classic American-made beauty.
MY FAVORITE HOTEL is George V in Paris–luxury, elegance, charm.
MY FAVORITE DESIGNER is Ralph Lauren. He has been a favorite of mine for decades. His luxurious fabrics and fine craftsmanship make his clothing timeless.
MY FAVORITE CHARITY The Cambodian Children’s Fund. It provides education, nourishment,
MY FAVORITE HORSE EVENT is Salon du Chevalier in Paris—beautiful horses in the world’s most beautiful city. MY FAVORITE iPHONE APP is Arab data source–a data base for all registered Arabians at your fingertips. MY FAVORITE MUSICIAN is Amos Lee–an American singer/song
MY FAVORITE MEAL is seasonal truffle pasta from il Pastio in Beverly Hills. Truffles and fresh pasta—could you ask for a more perfect combination? MY FAVORITE MOVIE PROJECT I’m currently working on a film entitled Africa, the life story of Richard Leakey.
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Above: The farm in Santa Ynez is situated on 120 acres of rolling hills, sprawling paddocks, and vineyards. Bottom, left to right: One of Mindy’s prized Arabians enjoys the view. Mindy and son Jordan have some California fun. Eugenio Perez Diaz keeps the horses calm and happy. Majestic willow trees grace the property. Joanna Rose gave EQ comprehensive tours of both Mindy’s properties.
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into jumping, they can do that,” Mindy said. “If they want to drive, they can do that. It’s not like they are limited to just one aspect.” Her Santa Ynez farm was recently part of a three-day private tour of breeding farms in the valley, which is rapidly becoming a hub for Arabian horses.
Her son, Jordan, also shares the family’s love of the breed and had recently shown at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show weeks before we arrived. Mindy describes him as having a rare talent with Arabians. In true California style, Jordan lead one of the mares out of the barn on a skateboard after finishing a photo session. Mindy Peters’ Arabians continues the family legacy of type, beauty, and pedigree. Many of her extraordinary mares can be traced back to lines used by her grandfather’s program. “My real love is the breeding,” she said. “It’s part of who I am from my grandfather. It’s part of what I hold onto from him.”
M
indy’s daughter Kendyl seems poised to step into the role of fourth-generation Arabian breeder. Mindy describes her as a very gifted and natural born rider. “She rides and shows hunter jumpers,” Mindy said. “She loves Arabians and is absolutely horse mad!”
PAGE 97
Kendyl poses with Mindy and her father, Jon Peters, after she won Champion in her division–13 and under Purebred Arabian English Pleasure.
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THE ARABIAN: A BREED FOR ALL BY ARLENE MAGID
M
INDY PETERS’ stun-
and an adult amateur. He was also a western pleasure
ningly beautiful Arabian
champion. After his purchase at age 11 by Officer Kim
horses come from the
Chinn of the Prince William County Mounted Police
world’s oldest breed of
Force in Virginia, Shiraz, as he is known on the force,
horse. For thousands
became a valued member of the team, working suc-
of years, Arabians lived
cessfully with Chinn in all manner of situations, often
among the desert tribes of the Arabian peninsula, bred
in difficult terrain. He is still on the job at age 16. Sul-
by the Bedouins as war mounts. The Arabian evolved
livan Xtreem’s immediate ancestors are world famous,
in harsh desert conditions to have large lung capacity
including U.S. national champion stallions *Aladdinn
and incredible endurance. The severe climate required
and *Bask, both Polish Arabians.
the nomads to share food and water, and sometimes
Arabians bred in Poland are tested on the racetrack
even their tents with their horses. As a result, Arabians
before being sent to the breeding barn, and as a result
developed a close affinity to man and a high intel-
Polish Arabians are respected worldwide for their
ligence.
quality. The young stallion Kalaloch was bred in Amer-
Traits developed in the desert that were necessary
ica from Polish Arabian stock, and he exemplifies the
for survival have made the Arabian a highly desirable
working western Arabian. He was the only first time
horse in the modern world as well. Arabians have
national winner at the 2012 U.S. Arabian National
large nostrils that are thinner than the nostrils of
show to win three national championships, achieving
other breeds to enable them to breathe more easily.
the titles of 2012 U.S. National Champion Working
They have large black eyes for protection and better
Cow Horse, Junior Horse, and Working Cow Horse
visibility, hardy feet for rocky desert terrain, and high
Futurity, and Reserve National Champion Reined Cow
tail-carriage to cool their bodies in the desert heat.
Horse. His sire is Polish National Champion Stallion
They are also thin-skinned for heat dissipation and
*Piaff PASB, who has sired national winners in Europe
have short backs with one less rib for greater strength.
and America. Kalaloch is owned by Shelley Ellsworth
The Bedouin tribes carefully protected the purity of
Brown of Yakima, Washington.
the breed. Because of their limited resources, breeding
Purebred Arabians compete successfully in North
practices were extremely selective. Such practices,
America in cross country, dressage, and jumper
which eventually helped the Arabian become a prized
competition against all breeds. The pony jumper
possession throughout the world, have led to the beautiful athletic breed we know today. Arabians were the chosen horses of many great military commanders of the past for their strength, speed, and stamina. Genghis Khan, Napoleon, Alexander the Great, and George Washington all rode Arabians in battle. In modern times, Arabians are prized for their beauty and also for their athletic ability, which has enabled them to succeed in virtually every discipline in which horses compete. Arabians are the leading breed in the world for endurance (distance) riding, due to the traits that enabled them to flourish in the tough desert climate of their origins. Arabians are also versatile members of equine society in many other fields, and we honor three horses who exemplify the best of the breed here. Sullivan Xtreem was a very successful Arabian show horse with national titles in hand shown by a junior
Above top: Arabians like Game On make superb pony jumpers for children. Game On’s ancestors include multiple national champion Khemosabi, the breed’s most popular sire, who was commemorated by Breyer as a model horse. Above: Multiple National Champion Kalaloch loves to chase cows; his ancestors came from the great stud farms of Poland. Polish royalty imported their original stock directly from the desert. Arlene Magid has been in the Arabian horse business since 1982 and has written for Arabian publications, including Arabian Horse World, Arabian Horse Times, Arabian Visions, and more. She was researcher and editor for the book Arabian Legends and has given seminars and courses at schools, horse farms, the Scottsdale All-Arabian Show (where she was a guest speaker two years in a row), the Eastern Crabbet Alliance show, conference centers, and other venues.
Game On (registered as Paso Grande Beaux with the Arabian registry) is owned by Kaitlyn Miller-Roberts of Dallas, Texas. His barn name is Tiger because he has the heart of a tiger. His lengthy show record includes Team Gold and Team Silver at the U.S. Pony Jumper Championships and T.H.J.A. year-end champion in pony jumpers. Kaitlyn says of him, “My favorite thing about him is his heart. I haven’t ever felt a horse who wanted to win as much as Tiger. He loves to jump and go fast, and half the time I think he can read my mind about what I want to do. He is just a great teammate.” Game On’s sire is El Paso Grande, a son of the Polish import *El Paso, a U.S. National Champion Stallion. El Paso Grande is a maternal brother to one of the breed’s best-loved stallions, Khemosabi, a multiple national champion in halter and western pleasure, the breed’s leading living sire of champions for many years, who was commemorated by Breyer as a model horse.
* Imported into the USA
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DÉCOR
Traditional Styles are Young Again BY BETSY STEIN
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I
n the creation of
to dramatic effect. One is
EQ magazine, our
the strikingly bold geometric
editors visit many
patterns on floors that
traditional New England
somehow manage to feel
homes, and we have
both uniquely modern and
always been drawn to
historically traditional at
two interesting design
the same time. Another is
elements we’ve seen used
the folk-art-style murals on
Rollie the Golden Retriever relaxes on a floorcloth in Lisa Curry Mair’s Vermont studio.
the walls of historic homes that often represent a vision of the property from years past. We found that many of these dĂŠcor elements originated from the same artist, LISA CURRY MAIR, at her Weathersfield,Vermont,
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Lisa and Rollie; the sun-filled upstairs studio (Far right).
farm and studio. Mair is a throwback to earlier times. Her paintings are made as they would have been hundreds of years ago–one painstakingly slow step at a time. Since 1994 she has created countless paintings which have made their way all over North America. They can be found in private homes, historic museums, and featured in publications such as The Boston Globe Magazine, Country Living, Old House Journal, The Chronicle of the Horse, The Miami Herald, and The Washington Post. The dirt road to the Mair house crosses a typical Vermont covered bridge and passes by neighboring farms, whose chickens scatter at approaching cars. The oldest part of Lisa’s house was originally part of the Henry Gould Farm, a dairy farm of about 200 acres. The house was built around 1790 and sits at the base of Vermont’s picturesque Mount Ascutney. The home was expanded into the existing farmhouse and carriage house (now the studio with a huge table) in 1840. In 2012, Lisa added a new garage and her sunshine-filled upstairs studio (above, right). It seems that art is part of the home’s past as well its present. In the 1970s, portrait painter, H. Thomas Clark lived in the house and turned the carriage-house wing into a painting studio. 46 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RTERLY | SUMMER | 2013
In the carriage-house wing of the Gould farmhouse is Canvasworks Studio, Lisa Curry Mair’s primary workspace. With Rollie the Golden Retriever at her feet, Lisa discussed her art:
The Henry Gould Farm, in Weathersfield, Vt.
When Lisa purchased the house in 1994, the studio had been converted into an apartment. “We converted it back to a studio in 1999, and in the construction we found one of Clark’s painting in the attic crawl space,” Lisa explained.
What are floorcloths? Floorcloths, also known, historically, as “oylcloths,” have been used in homes in this country since the late 17th century. Worn sails from ships were used to create floor coverings, and they were popular in New England’s coastal towns where sails were readily available. They were stenciled with repeating designs or painted to imitate carpet or marble floors. In the 1800s, floorcloths were being manufactured up and down the east coast on an industrial scale, but when linoleum was patented in 1869, floorcloth began to be replaced. A resurgence of floorcloths started in the 1970s, and now they have resumed popularity worldwide. Today they are frequently recommended by designers as a fantastic style statement, with a uniqueness often sought for distinctive homes.
F
loorcloths are frequently recommended by designers as a fantastic
style statement, with a uniqueness often sought for distinctive homes.
Do they have any advantages over carpets?
Tell us about your wall murals.
Today many homeowners are getting rid of their wall to wall carpets for various reasons such as toxicity, lack of durability, and difficulty cleaning. Floorcloths are becoming very popular in the place of carpets, with durability, ease of cleaning (just damp mop), and the ability to customize size, design, and colors to suit any situation. Where do your designs originate?
My designs are often from historical sources. I offer research services to museums and historic sites and owners of period and/or reproduction homes to ensure designs that are appropriate to the period being represented. I also create original floorcloth designs, drawing from traditional sources and incorporating my own 21st century subtleties and motifs. My customers often offer the best new design ideas. They will ask me to meld multiple aspects of designs into one, sometimes incorporating specific details pertaining to their own lifestyles and interests. I work closely with each customer through site visits, telephone conferences, and sharing photo images to create the perfect floorcloth or mural design for them.
Are the designs available online, or are they all custom?
Many of my designs are available for viewing online and can be ordered directly from my website. However, most clients prefer to customize their floorcloths with specific colors, sizes, and design adjustments. I rarely make the same floorcloth twice.
My murals and commissioned paintings are created in a folk-art style reminiscent of Rufus Porter (of 19th century New England). I usually use scenes from historical records of a specific home, farm, town, or area and develop an idea which will visually take the room back in time. I meet with the client on site, online, or on the phone to get a good idea of their desires for the project. They supply me with as much historical information, photographs, and resources as possible before I begin to create a sketch of the mural. These begin as pen-and-ink drawings and proceed to a full-color painting on canvas. I can also demonstrate how the finished mural will look on the walls of the room using digital photo-editing software. After the client approves the final design, I paint the mural in my studio on 100 percent cotton canvas using fade-resistant acrylic paints. When the mural is complete it is shipped to the home and professionally installed using heavy-duty wallpaper paste. The canvas murals can be removed at a later date and rehung in a different location. I have had people ask me to make canvases for their antique sleigh, for their refrigerator, SU M M E R | 2 0 1 3 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E R LY | 4 7
I
love living in and working from an old farmhouse, and I love
having my horses and dog right here. pasture. The horses ground me and keep me in touch with the history I am trying to recreate in my artwork. After a busy day, I walk 100 yards to my barn, tack up Williamsburg (Willy) and proceed to unwind. Mucking out stalls in the morning is one of my best creative thinking times. I suspect there would be far fewer new designs if I didn’t have my muck time!
for their boat, elevator, or fire board and to cover a table. Paint on canvas is wonderful because you can apply it to just about anything. It’s tough, strong, and flexible, so it works great. How would someone commission you to create a mural?
Interested people can call or email me to set up a meeting to start the mural design process. I don’t need to go to the home, but I prefer being able to meet the customers face-to-face and to see the actual space where the mural will hang. Do you do everything yourself?
I have part-time help with the floorcloth side of the business. Theresa Hooker has been preparing my floorcloth canvases for five years and does a phenomenal job shrinking and priming canvas and sewing hems. My husband, Bart, helps me hang 400-pound bolts of canvas and listens to my artistic woes. He’s also the farm’s manure-maneuverer, fence-fixer, and shavingsand-feed-fetcher. And of course, Rollie keeps me smiling, and reminds me to take breaks, by requesting walks at regular intervals! The horses help with that too.
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Your life and home look idyllic.
Horses are part of your life. And designs? I started making and selling floorcloths to help pay for my horse habit. After 20 years, it’s a good thing the business has grown, because my dressage habit has as well. My daughter, Lauren, also rides and competes in the eventing world, so Canvasworks has had to double up to cover her expenses as well. Horses are a huge part of my designs, particularly in the folk-art pieces. I usually show them standing peacefully in a field in my paintings. That’s probably because every time I look out any of my studio windows, I see my gang grazing peacefully in our stone-wall lined
I love living in and working from an old farmhouse, and I love having my horses and dog right here. My husband and daughter seem to think that I need to get out more! Some weeks I will not leave the property for six days straight. I don’t see anything wrong with that, but they seem to think it’s abnormal. The internet allows me to do most of my research online, although I do travel to historic sites throughout the country to get the most accurate historical information for those projects. I also travel to homes when necessary to help with mural and floorcloth installations. I enjoy showing visitors around my studio and home, and often do that once a week or so. PAGE 97.
Lorna Brittan is redoing the antique home she purchased from actor Charles Bronson. She commissioned Lisa to create a mural in the dining room that celebrates how she imagines the property appeared a hundred years ago.
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INSIDE THE HERMÈS ATELIER BY STEPHANIE PETERS PHOTOS GEORGE KAMPER
Access to the Hermès saddlery in Paris is a rare opportunity. When EQ photography director George Kamper and I were invited to visit, we immediately accepted— knowing we would witness the skillful artisans at work, demonstrating the superior craftsmanship synonymous with the Hermès brand.
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he saddle-making workshops are perched on the upper floors of Hermès’s 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore store in Paris. One workshop is dedicated to the selection and precision cutting of leather, and the other to saddle making. Once the pieces for the saddle are cut to size and carefully examined for any imperfections, they are delivered to the skilled saddle makers on the floor above. The quiet entrance to the saddle-making workshop, bearing a door with an etched glass Hermès logo and leather plaque, conveys the company’s heritage of quality and style that was first established in 1880. Inside, worn-handled and patinaed tools that have been used for decades sit prominently on the saddlers’ worktables along with needles and thread, the cornerstones of the classic and durable saddle stitch. Bookcases are lined with leather-bound registers dating back to 1909. Every Hermès saddle made since then has been recorded and includes a comprehensive list of the saddle specifications, the saddle-maker’s name, and the year the saddle was made.
Within the airy studio are rows of saddles and small prototypes that serve as models for the saddle makers. It is abuzz with light hammering, plinking, and the sound of the saddlers gently massaging supple leather into full-sized versions of their smaller counterparts. There are currently 13 people in the saddle-making department, and each saddle is made by a single craftsman. The saddles are all assembled and stitched by hand, with the exception of the tree–the internal structure that provides the shape of the saddle. Saddler Vincent Leopold (next page, bottom right) provided a visual demonstration of how a saddle is constructed, assembling the various components of a saddle in proper sequence. Custom designs are nothing new for Hermès saddle makers and Vincent proudly displayed a binder filled with exquisite creations running the gamut from intricate brocade to exotic skins. Hermès’s newest saddle, Cavale, designed for high-level show jumping, was debuted in conjunction with Le Saut Hermès, 2013, an international jumping event featuring 35 of the world’s best jumpers under the glass dome of the Grand Palais. SU M M E R | 2 0 1 3 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E R LY | 5 1
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“ D E S I G N I N G A S A D D L E I S A N E VO L U T I O N ” LAURENT GOBLET
EQ was invited to speak with Hermès artisan, Laurent Goblet (opposite, top right) and Director of Hermès Equestrian Department, Marion Bardet (opposite, middle right), who were happy to answer a few of our questions and describe the extensive collaborative process that goes into the design and launch of a new Hermès saddle.
When designing a saddle, is the ultimate goal a perfect balance of form and function? MB: Laurent will never do something unattractive! When he designs German reins he reinvents them, and they will be the most beautiful German reins you’ve ever seen!
Do you approach the design of new products collaboratively? MB: The new saddle, Cavale (at right), is an example of collaboration. The initial collaborators were Laurent (Goblet) and Simon Delestre, a top international rider and partner of Hermès. Simon, who rides seven hours a day, helped to establish what is ideal for the rider and best for the horse. Based on Simon’s initial input, Laurent will design a full-size prototype for testing, using the exact materials to be used in the final version. Additional feedback from the rider, veterinarians, and saddlery craftsmen and keen observation of the horse’s responses and movement determine the cycles of revisions. Just recently, Laurent finished a Cavale saddle for a Spanish rider, Pilar Cordon. Laurent said, “It is quite different from Simon’s, but it is still a Cavale. We will always need to make some revisions. Each horse and rider rides differently.”
LG: I have done this for 35 years, and it is practice, practice. I put the rider in the saddle and position the legs and back. This is the first part of a design. After the prototype, I follow the form and movement of the rider and integrate the technical functions a saddle needs to have. I have to listen to the rider, and the vets, and then incorporate the necessary qualities into something aesthetic. Designing a saddle is an evolution.
What are the most important criteria when designing a saddle? LG: The balance of the rider. The comfort of the rider and horse, the contact between the rider and the horse, and the distribution of weight to avoid injury are all critical necessities. The saddle is an essential tool allowing contact between rider and horse. What impact has technology had on the design and construction of an Hermès saddle? MB: Laurent is always looking for new, innovative materials that enable Hermès to produce the exact same saddles with little variation for individual riders. Advances in memory foam are making inroads in that pursuit. What makes Hermès products timeless? LG: The quality of the materials. The quality of our leathers. There is one tannery in the world that is still producing our leather. You just have to touch it to recognize the superior quality. It is also the quality of the craftsmanship. In the case of our saddles, each saddle is made by one person, every aspect from A to Z. What are Laurent’s sources of inspiration? MB: He was born with it! He loves it when he is asked to create something. He typically starts with existing functional qualities of a product and adds something new with enhanced functionality. He is always using qualities of the past and merging them with techniques of the future. PAGE 97
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EQ’s Photography Director
GEORGE KAMPER C APTURES THE ESSENCE OF LE SAUT HERM ÈS UNDER THE GLASS DOM E OF THE GRAND PALAIS, PA R I S
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RAVEL WITH GEORGE BEHIND THE SCENES AND RINGSIDE THROUGH-
OUT THIS THREE-DAY INTERNATIONAL SHOW JUMPING EVENT. LE SAUT IS AN EVENT BETTER TOLD IN IMAGES—WHICH ARE, IN GEORGE’S C ASE, STRONGER THAN WORDS. ACCESS THE ATHLETES, HORSES,
ARTISANS, PEOPLE, AND CULINARY MASTERPIECES THROUGH HIS CREATIVE LENS. ALSO, BE SURE TO ENJOY HIS RARE VISIT INSIDE THE HERMÈS SELLIER WORKSHOP ON PAGE 50. SEE MORE OF GEORGE’S PHOTOS ON EQUESTRIANQUARTERLY.COM Opposite page: George Kamper’s dynamic montage of the Grand Palais, Paris, during early morning warmups.
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T H E V I S U A L G R A N D E U R O F T H E G R A N D PA L A I S
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H O R S E S , R I D E R S , A N D A C RO B AT S I N E L E G A N T PA G E N T RY
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B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S AT L E S A U T
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This page, photo directly above: We would like to thank Hermès Public Relations Director, Cena Jackson, right, Paris Press Team’s Nathalie Sanz, left, and many others for inviting EQ to attend and share this esteemed, show jumping event.
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Cocktail time in Southern California: BERNIE AND CAIT TRAURIG and their macaw, Flip, often end the day relaxing under the palms at the tiki bar that Cait built.
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AT HO M E W I T H C A I T AND B E R N I E T R AU R I G From what was once Ant Hill Farm, equestriancoach.com now brings a host of WORLD-CLASS TRAINERS AND COMPETITORS right to your home.
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he EQ team recently visited Bernie and Cait Traurig at their home in Southern California, slightly north of San Diego. The setting, surrounded by fine horse farms and an easy drive to beaches and Temecula wine country, comes quite close to being paradise. Bernie Traurig is perhaps the only athlete to have represented the United States Equestrian Team and reached the top of the sport in three of the International Equestrian Olympic disciplines: show jumping, dressage, and eventing. In 2009 he was inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame and last December received the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) President’s Distinguished Service Award. Traurig represented the U.S. Equestrian Show Jumping Team several times, including the 1982 world championships in Dublin. He competed in eight world cup finals and is the winner of over 60 show jumping grand prix events. He won fifteen grand prix and grand prix
special classes in dressage and was short-listed for the 1986 world championship trials and the 1988 Olympic Games. He also won the high point dressage award in 1988 at the Olympic selection trials. RELAX I N G AT T H E T I K I B A R
The Traurigs have created their own unique style by combining their love of Western decor and tropicalisland relaxation, overlayed with a California vibe.
We settled in at the Traurigs’ festive tiki bar, which was built by Cait. Surrounding us were horses; a gold and blue macaw named Flip; and four dogs: Garth, a shepherd; Falcon, a Belgian Malinois; Russell, a French bulldog; and Chop stick, a Basenji-mix stray. We asked Bernie how he ended up in this wonderful home, which is an eclectic blend of Polynesian south seas, Western, and California styles, and he readily described the colorful and circuitous road that led him here. Traurig explained that when he was 16, he won both the AHSA (now United States Equestrian Team) Medal Finals and the Maclay Finals. He became a working student of Frank Chapot and trained out of Gladstone, N.J., with the United States Equestrian Team. In 1964 Traurig was second at the Olympic Trials in eventing. “My eventing career abruptly ended when my horse bowed a tendon one week prior to
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A FAMILY AFFAIR (Above) Cait and Bernie’s home began as a “shack-like shed” on a patch of dirt and sand. They did much of the planting and building work themselves. The warm interior is furnished in a relaxed style, with Western accents. (Right) Cait edits 90 percent of equestriancoach.com’s videos herself in her studio because, she explains, “to be done properly, it really needs to be done by a horse person.”
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Above, Flip the macaw; below, Traurig and his friend George Morris during filming for equestriancoach.com.
shipping. I moved on to the show-jumping squad and had the opportunity to train with the incredible Bert deNemethy,” reflected Traurig. According to Traurig, after working a brief time in the steeplechase world, “I started my own business in the hunter jumper world at the age of 21 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and I had to do everything myself.” He braided, drove trucks, taught lessons, and mucked his own stalls. C A L I F O R N I A DREAMING
Bernie always wanted to end up in California, so after 10 years in Pennsylvania and numerous stints around the country, he decided to pack up and make the move. That was 26 years ago. In 1999 he met Cait, and together they discovered what they endearingly refer to as
Ant Hill Farm, a two-acre parcel that at the time of purchase was “just a patch of dirt and sand.” The original house on the property had burned to the ground, and only a shack-like shed remained. Cait decided that the elevated location of the old shed was perfect and that the dilapidated building could become a unique home. Cait did much of the reconstruction herself, and Bernie helped with things like the irrigation
system. They planted hundreds of shrubs and trees, creating an amazingly vibrant and lush property. They boarded their horses with a nearby neighbor for a period of time but eventually decided to add their own horse facilities. They built barns to accommodate 18 stalls and hauled out 200 tons of dirt to create a training ring. Bernie and Cait have managed to utilize every square inch of their land, yet the property feels so much larger than its two acres. EXPAN D I N G T H E R E AC H
From this polynesian-Western base, Bernie travels the world as one of the most soughtafter clinicians in the country. He is famous for his natural gifts of teaching and coaching. But with 48 years of training, and experience with thousands of horses, Traurig was intrigued by
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P H OTO : TE RR I MI LLE R
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The original patch of dir t and sand (above) that Cait and Bernie named Ant Hill Farm is now lush and green.
how he could extend the reach of his teaching using new technology. While he might be limited to only 15 to 24 students in a traditional clinic, he could reach many thousands by using the internet. “To me, reading a book on how to do something is one thing, but actually seeing it brings a new clarity,” he explained. In 2009 he began filming clinics, and in 2010 he launched equestriancoach.com, a subscription education service that provides systematic, online lessons presented by Traurig as well as a host of other world-class trainers and competitors, including Rodrigo Pessoa, Eric Lamaze, Laura Kraut, Missy Clark, Peter Pletcher, Louise Serio, Julie Winkel, and many more. “Our mission is to make quality education accessible and affordable to every equestrian, regardless of their background, their level, or their geographic location,” said Traurig proudly. Equestriancoach.com is not only a labor of love, it’s a family affair. Cait, also an accomplished equestrian, edits 90 percent of the videos in her home office, because, as she explains,
“to be done properly, it really needs to be done by a horse person.” Equestriancoach.com has received accolades and endorsements by the world’s top educators of the sport. According to former United States Equestrian Foundation’s Chef d’Equipe, George Morris, “You can’t go wrong with education spearheaded by these kinds of people.” The most recent addition is the “American Hunter Jumper Forward Riding System.” Traurig produced this series to encapsulate the fundamental elements of the forward riding system: position, control, and schooling. The introduction to the series is a history lesson on the contributors to the forward riding system with incredible, old footage of Italian military cross-country training. ANT H I L L G O E S G L O B A L
We found Bernie and Cait’s excitement contagious—realizing that cozy Ant Hill Farm, once “only a patch of dirt and sand,” has, in a sense, become a major center of equestrian education. PAGE 97.
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AMAZING BARNS This page: Riverlands, a dressage-training facility in Pemberton, British Columbia, has two constantly flowing streams on the property. Riverlands uses hydroelectricity to power the entire facility and sells the excess to the local power company.
Opposite: Three barns in (top to bottom) Kentucky, South Carolina, and Montana.
Let There Be Light BARN DESIGN IS BOTH AN ART AND A SCIENCE. AMERICA’S TOP EQUESTRIAN ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS SHARE THEIR SECRETS.
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t EQ magazine, we regularly visit some amazing equestrian facilities. They range from traditional New England farms to over-the-top luxury structures that would be called mansions if they were homes for people rather than horses. But looking at barn design beyond the impressive beauty, quality finishes, solar panels, and brass ball finials, there is science as well as art in designing a successful equestrian facility.
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B Y FA R T H E B I G GE S T P R I O R I T Y I N BARN DESIGN I S M A X I M I Z I N G N AT U R A L L I G H T A N D V E N T I L AT IO N .
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EQ assembled a group of some of America’s premier equestrian architects and builders to find out what separates a well-conceived facility from simply a beautiful building. Meet the panel on the next page. We began researching this feature by focusing on “green barns”; however, it quickly became apparent that a “green” facility is much, much more than simply adding solar panels and recycling water. A well-designed barn uses less energy because it doesn’t need supplemental lighting or ventilation.
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M A S T E R P L A N IS PARAMOUNT Barns can pay tribute to the traditional architectural styles of their locations. A curved driveway at Iron Rose Farm, near Aspen, Colo., references old local mining structures and uses a wooden roadway like those in old bridges. The owner can personally tune the “clackety-clack” sound vehicles make while crossing. The cupola on a private barn on Long Island also reflects local design tradition.
D I R E C T D I G I TA L P H O T O G R A P H Y F O R C M W I N C .
As our experts explained, good design begins well before the buildings are even “napkin sketches.” The important first step is visualizing the facility as a whole. According to architect John Blackburn, “Proper planning can reduce costs–fewer roads, less fencing, better drainage–and ensure that the whole farm, not just the horse barn but the entire collection of structures on the site, operates efficiently and safely.” Joe Martinolich, principal and director of equine facilities design at CMW, says, “People tell me, ‘I need a six-stall barn.’ I ask, what about your tractors, manure, tools, and hay?” He tells them, “First locate your turnout, hay, equipment, and vehicle storage, access for manure pickup, large-truck deliveries, and maybe guests and visitors. These all have interrelationships, and they need to be planned for in the beginning. Only then can you focus on the actual buildings.” “At most farms, the biggest expense is the labor,” adds Lachlan Oldaker of GH2 Gralla in Oklahoma. “So, efficient planning saves time, and therefore money. Good design means that
it requires fewer steps to do the daily routine, turnout, cleaning, and mucking, and therefore saves labor costs.” Blackburn explains the importance of the orientation of the buildings in the landscape. “A good barn is not just a building, it’s an engine. We design the building to create its own ventilation. We feel the key is to place the building perpendicular to the prevailing summer breeze for the location. Then, a properly pitched roof uses the Bernoulli effect, like the lift of an airplane wing, and creates areas of high and low pressure around the barn. On the backside of the roof, it creates a low-pressure area which, when properly designed, pulls air up and through the barn. Bring air in low near the floor and vent at the top to let the air exit. You want the air to move vertically. Horizontally transfers bacteria and pathogens from one horse to another.” Creating a master plan does not mean that every part of it needs be built at once. The plan may end up taking years to implement, but as each new structure or paddock is added, it isn’t done in the usual haphazard way. How many of
O U R E X P E RT S
JOHN BLACKBURN grew up in with horses in eastern Tennessee. “I played in the barn as a youngster and rode bareback because I didn’t want to fool with tack. Basically I rode until I fell off,” he told EQ. His architectural firm was established in Washington, D.C., in 1983 and has become one of America’s best known, specializing in equestrian projects, from site planning through design and construction management. A book on John’s work is coming out in late summer. (See page 82)
JOE MARTINOLICH, principal of CMW Equine Architects, has horses at his home. CMW, based in Lexington, Ky., was formed about 50 years ago and has had over 30 years of equine design experience. CMW began its equine practice with the original master plan and structures for the Kentucky Horse Park and has designed numerous horse facilities locally, nationally and internationally.
HOLLY MATT has competed and judged in various disciplines for the past 30 years and is an active competitor in USEF national and FEI international levels of eventing competitions. She began her architectural career in Denver and now leads Pegasus Design Group, in Southern Pines, NC. Holly travels extensively to research planning and construction methods, materials, and new technology, to adequately advise her clients.
LACHLAN OLDAKER began working with architect Stan Gralla in 1987 and leads up GH2 Gralla’s equine practice, located in Oklahoma. Lachlan has been an avid equestrian for 40 years. She is directly involved in the planning, design, and production of all equine facility projects, with experience ranging from Class I racetracks and equine event centers to personal training, breeding, boarding, and recreational facilities.
LAUREL ROBERTS, daughter of Monty and Pat Rober ts, has trained horses her entire life. While managing and working at Flag Is Up Farms in the Santa Ynez Valley, Laurel not only learned to be a champion rider but gained a lifetime of experience building and running equine facilities. She works with some of the best builders and suppliers available. (See “What I Learned’ ” on page 84)
DAVE ZUBLIN founded Old Town Barns in 1982 to preserve the traditions of craftsmanship and durability that are representative of the American landscape. From his base in Pawling, New York, Dave has the reputation as one of the best builders of equestrian facilities in the Nor theast.
For contact information for these designers, see PAGE 97
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“A GOOD BARN IS NOT JUST A BUILDING, IT’S AN ENGINE.” –JOHN BLACKBURN A MAZING BARNS Opposite: 1. Oakhaven, a 90-acre ranch in Austin, arena at All’s Well Farm in Virginia are bright and spacious. 3. Tim Singer and Nick Thornton of Lucas Equine. 4. Bamboo composite is an environmentally friendly material that is seeing wider use in barns, as in these stall fronts from Lucas. 5. Galvanized metal is virtually indestructible but has had a “low-end” reputation. Lucas combines galvanized trim and finials to achieve a “high-end” look. 6. A hilltop Virginia farm, designed to work with the climate. 7. The foaling barn at Tenlane Farm in Versailles, Ky., features much natural light. 8. Shade is provided in paddocks in steamy Wellington, Fla., with stainless-steel structures that don’t drip rainwater and are hurricane proof.
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Texas, uses local stone. 2,9. The barn and indoor
In addition to generous skylights, vir tually all the glass walls of the indoor arena open wide in the summer at Winley Farm, a private hunter jumper facility in Millbrook, N.Y.
us have said years later, “You know, I could use a tractor shed somewhere?” Even those with very limited budgets should consider getting the advice of an expert at the planning stage, given the importance of the optimum farm layout. NEXT, T H E BU I L D I N G S
Geographic location is unquestionably the overriding influence on building style and materials. Obviously Colorado or Vermont climates require vastly different priorities from those of Florida or Texas. Age-old indigenous architectural styles of different regions were driven by climate. Think of the steeply roofed New England barn, built to shed snow. Pegasus Equine Design’s Holly Matt notes, “Old barns were built by farmers who knew what they
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“PEOPLE SAY, ‘IF I’M GOING TO INVEST ALL THIS MONEY, I WANT TO DO IT PROPERLY.’ ”
were doing; they knew what their animals needed. Now many owners and builders don’t really know horse care. They just go for the flash.” In many areas, residential building requirements are creeping into farm design. Horse barns may no longer be considered “agricultural” and may not be exempt from residential building codes. They may require fire sprinklers and other safety features. In Wellington, Fla., for example, building codes require barns to be built to strict standards to withstand hurricanes. Matt recalled that on one project, she wanted to use high-quality galvanized doors and windows from Germany, “They were perfect for climates like Wellington, because even powder-coated metal will eventually rust if not galvanized underneath.” But they first needed
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W A LT R O Y C R A F T F O R C M W I N C .
–JOE MARTINOLICH
The aisle of the foaling barn of Tenlane Farm in Versailles, Ky., dramatically shows how natural light can be brought into a barn.
to be officially approved for storm resistance by Florida before they could be installed. “That took a lot of extra work,”she says. “People are recognizing that all barns are different,” says Martinolich, “and they need to be customized for different functions–breeding, stallions, drafts, etc.–and for different locations, and different owner’s preferences. People say, ‘If I’m going to invest all this money, I want to do it properly.’” “Like in homes, people are also asking for convenience and function: wash stalls, radiant floor heat that’s just enough to take the chill off, vet facilities, automation, fire protection,” Oldaker says. But returning to the idea of the building as a machine, she adds, “Haylofts may be romantic, but they just don’t make sense any more.” Blackburn agrees. “Lofts and a ceil-
AMAZING BARNS
“AT MOST FARMS, THE BIGGEST EXPENSE IS THE LABOR, SO EFFICIENT PLANNING [IN THE BEGINNING] SAVES TIME, AND THEREFORE MONEY.”
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1,2. New River Bank barn, on the Potomac in Leesburg Virginia, features floor-to-ceiling glass on one side and is used for family festivities. 3. The covered arena I VA N H U N T E R F O R G H 2 - G R A L L A
ing can stop a building from being a machine,” he says. “People ask me, why skylights in Florida or Texas? It will just get hot. Well you want it to get hot, because you create a huge temperature difference at the ridge, and that creates the chimney effect. Heat rises. When you combine that with the Bernoulli effect that pulls the rising air out, you get a breeze even on a still day. It ventilates, cools and gets the bacteria out. A good barn doesn’t need lights (in the daytime) or fans.” Matt says, “Most barns do not have adequate ventilation. Horses need 5 to 10 times more fresh air than humans because their lungs are bigger. What may seem fine to us is not to the horse. Horses depend on clean, fresh air to keep them healthy throughout the year. Their respiratory systems are fragile and to keep them
The indoor arena at Riverlands, a dressagetraining facility in Pember ton, British Columbia, has rows of glass overhead garage doors raised eight feet to allow views of the mountain ranges on both sides.
at Glenwood Farm in Ridgeway, South Carolina. 4, 9. A private farm on Long Island uses curved beams in its construction. 5. The barn aisle at All’s Well Farm in Virginia. 6. Chocola Farm in Michigan is both a family retreat and cutting horse operation. The Lodge is a three-story space used as a family getaway. 7. The doors, stall-fronts, and accessories in this California farm are custom-made of galvanized metal. 8. Holly Matt’s personal barn in Colorado was her design “laboratory.” 10. An interesting cutting-horse ranch in Texas uses wood, pipe, zinc, and metal mesh to create a facility at one with its environment. 11. Heronwood in Upperville, Virginia.
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LIGHT AND VENTILATION ARE THE BIGGEST “GREEN THINGS” TO CONSIDER WHEN DESIGNING.
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“HORSES CAN GET SPOOKED OVER MANY THINGS, EVEN SHADOWS. TRANSLUCENT SKYLIGHTS ALLOW PLENTY OF LIGHT WITHOUT CASTING
feeling their best they must be provided with three levels of ventilation. Starting at the top level, roof ridge vents, vented skylights, eaves, and cupolas allow stale air to escape, while the main level windows and doors provide fresh air intake. Stall floor-level ventilation allows heavy ammonia gas and dust to escape the stalls. All three levels of ventilation must be provided in order to create an optimal environment for your performance horse.” Apparently, the designers agree that incorporating numerous skylights into the design seems to be the biggest single change in barn architecture. It has become the norm. And why not? Skylights provide the double benefit of both natural light and natural ventilation. “Light and ventilation are the biggest ‘green things’ to consider when designing,”
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SHADOWS.” –DAVE ZUBLIN
Venting cupolas, clerestory windows, skylights, and sliding barn doors in a riding ring make for a pleasurable indoor riding experience in Long Island, New York.
Martinolich adds. “Plus they just make a barn so much more pleasant. You want to leave a dark, cave-like barn as quickly as you can. But a bright, well-ventilated barn or arena has a whole different feeling. You don’t want to leave.” This feeling of brightness can be enhanced even more with some simple ideas. An indoor arena, painted white or a light color, fitted with adequate skylights, would never need electric lighting during the day, and it would feel as bright as the outdoors. Using translucent rather than clear skylights helps to eliminate shadows that may alarm horses. Just as location determines barn design, it also affects the choice of materials. Many people naturally gravitate to wood. It is warm, traditional, and may be the most economical,
P EGAS U S DESIGN GROUP
AMAZING BARNS
“MOST BARNS DO NOT HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION. HORSES NEED 5 TO 10 TIMES MORE FRESH AIR THAN HUMANS...WHAT MAY SEEM FINE
especially if it is locally sourced–for example Southern Yellow pine in Georgia, or Douglas fir in the Pacific Northwest. Martinolich notes, “People like the look of wood barns, but then there are issues of fire, maintenance, and horse chewing. And once it’s painted, it has to be repainted over and over. In the end, everything is a compromise. We try to help owners make informed decisions.” Martinolich often recommends concrete block construction. It is durable, tighter for cold climates, cooler for warm climates, and fire resistant, and it can be styled in finishes that range from classic to modern. Although it may be initially more expensive, it is often cheaper in the long run. Steel construction has its place as well, especially in large clear-span structures like indoor arenas. As these photos show, standard prefab
TO US IS NOT TO THE HORSE.” –HOLLY MATT
steel components can be used and customized in many ways to achieve light, bright spaces that are attractive both inside and out. STALLS A N D F I X T U R E S
A hurricane-proof farm in Wellington, Florida, boasts solar panels sufficient to power the entire proper ty, with extra electricity to sell. The cupola offers ventilation as well as natural light.
Stalls are your horses’ homes, and should be considered carefully. Stallions have different needs from mares, or warmbloods from thoroughbreds. But all are strong and clever animals that can get into a lot of trouble if they have the opportunity. They can be injured and prone to illness from their stalls, bedding, and other sources. Whether you have one special horse that is a member of the family or an entire stable of horses, you have a large emotional and financial investment in their health and well-being. Martinolich is a strong believer in installing exterior stall doors whenever possible to “allow SU M M E R | 2 0 1 3 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E R LY | 8 1
AMAZING BARNS Healthy Stables By Design, a beautiful coffee-table book highlighting the work and philosophy of John Blackburn is being released in late summer 2013. All profits from the sale of the book will be donated to horse charities.
W H E N YO U TA K E A H O R S E O U T O F I T S C O M F O RT Z O N E — T H E W I L D —
horses to see the outdoors to have natural air and light. Outside doors greatly help their well-being.” As Matt said earlier, “Sometimes the most simple things are overlooked. For example, always build stalls with lower-level ventilation in the doors to let air in. Ammonia is heavier than air and sinks, and solid-wall stalls hold it in. Horses have their noses down to eat hay and they are breathing it in even if you may not smell it. Lucas Equine is one firm that is building low-ventilation into their doors. For existing barns, remedying this can be as simple as drilling a row of two-inch holes in the bottom of the stall doors.” Lucas’s Nick Thornton says that some of the other emerging trends in stalls include using galvanized metal.“Galvanized may be maintenance-free,” he says. “but you think ‘cheap’ when you picture it. But nothing lasts longer. It’s become our quest at Lucas to make galvanized look good. For example, including galvanized finials and trim adds a high-end look.” Many of the architects agreed that an emerging “green” stall-building material is bamboo composite. Thornton noted that bamboo is one of the most sustainable woods.
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I T ’ S YO U R O B L I G AT I O N TO C R E AT E A N E N V I RO N M E N T T H AT P ROT E C T S I T S H E A LT H A N D S A F E T Y. A P O O R LY D E S I G N E D B A R N C A N B E WO R S E T H A N N O B A R N AT A L L .
“It only takes a three-year growing cycle from planting to harvesting mature bamboo,” he says, “versus many years for other woods. Plus you aren’t cutting down rain forests to harvest exotic woods.” Another trend is incorporating automatic feed and water directly in the stalls. There are other luxuries such as manure disposal systems, where the bedding is mucked directly into a hatch in the stall and conveniently taken by a conveyor belt outside to the manure pile. Thornton enjoys the challenges thrown at him by architects and customers. For example, “Iron Rose Ranch (see page 78, bottom) went against everything I was taught,” he laughs. “They actually wanted all the hardware to rust, to become one with the landscape, and still hold up for the long term. It turns out that the rust encapsulates and protects the metal. If the architects can dream it, we can build it.
Most of our innovations come from customers’ requests.” There was also a consensus among the designers on the importance of soft footing surfaces in stalls, aisles, walkways, and riding rings. Laurel Roberts weighs in on page 84. “I WISH I K N E W T H I S ”
After reviewing the designers’ interviews and photographs for this article, EQ’s publisher said, “I wish I knew half of this when I built our dark barns. We need the lights on all day. If only I could do them over!” We’ve learned much in creating this portfolio. So much in fact, that EQ plans to continue this feature in future issues. We will visit exceptionally well-designed equestrian facilities together with the architects who designed them, and they will explain why and how they created their innovative farms. Whether you are purchasing and modifying a prefab barn, or custom building a barn from the ground up, the ideas presented here should shed new light. PAGE 97. More on barn design: Laurel Roberts’ thoughts on “What I’ve Learned,” on page 84.
What I Learned Growing up as Monty Roberts’ daughter, LAUREL ROBERTS learned from the best.
I
’ve been involved in creating equestrian properties since an early age. When I was 6 years old, we moved to Santa Ynez, California, where Dad began construction on a breeding farm for Hastings Harcourt, the book publisher. He wanted the finest thoroughbred operation on the West Coast, and Dad designed a 1,250-acre breeding and training operation for him. When I was growing up, I had a private tutor at night and worked with Dad all day long. I liked horticulture and actually managed the grounds crew at our Flag Is Up farm when I was 12 years old. So naturally, I studied horticulture at California Polytechnic. Dad had a company called Equine Design, because people were always asking him how to build this or that involving horses. I did overlays of landscape design over his plans. As I got more involved in the business, I decided to go work for a barn company to learn the construction side of the business. I got quite adept at taking prefab barns and making them feel custom. After eight years, I decided to move on to custom design, and one of my projects was revamping the entire Stanford University equestrian center. One interesting story from that project came from a memory I had as a child. I had a really long braid, and my young stud colt reached out of the dutch door of his stall and grabbed my braid. He actually pulled me over the door. I never forgot that. So at Stanford, where they have 60 stalls and many young kids, I designed stall-fronts with Classic Equine Stalls that only allow the horses to get half their necks outside the stall. That stall front became one of their best selling products. It’s much safer than the usual design. I’m building seven projects right now, from Sonoma to San Diego. And in everything I do, 84 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RTERLY | SUMMER | 2013
Laurel Roberts and Shy Boy, the horse that came in from the wild. Shy Boy is one of the world’s most beloved equine celebrities. He is known to millions of viewers of the BBC/PBS series and The New York Times best-selling book.
my focus is on the care, health, and well being of horses. I tell my clients that it all starts from the ground up. Everything horses rest on, work on, and stand on is far more important than brass balls on stalls. I like to use the StableComfort wall-to-wall system in stalls where I can. It is made with geotextile material with an HDPE coating which doesn’t tear, and it’s something like crumb rubber inside a mattress. Besides the horse’s comfort, the urine doesn’t reach the ground so there are fewer odors and flies. I believe that rubber pavers are very important to use in the aisles and walkways, both for you and your horse, especially if there is an accident. And I’ve also discovered a footing that is amazing. Dad brought a piece back from Germany, and he was so excited to tell me about it. It’s the Otto Sport matting system from a com-
pany that began as a “Mom and Pop” shop that built soft padded tennis courts. It has little cups that hold water, holes for drainage, and nubs for traction. I like to cover it with four inches of sand blended with felt fiber. In 2010 the Kentucky Horse Park had a footing competition and chose this surface over all others. Dad’s round pens are used every day, seven days a week, and we used to have to change the footing every six months at a large cost. We redid the pens seven years ago with Otto Sport and they are still fine; we just add a good sand footing mix. I suggested that Otto test the effect on horse’s joints, and they did a year-long study of Otto Sport versus sand. Their product absorbed 30 percent more concussion and gave greater uplift. That’s huge! Initially it may be more expensive, but think of the savings on wear and tear on the horses, vet bills, and not needing to replace it. Now, I am also helping run the thoroughbred business at Flag is Up for my parents because Dad travels 10 months a year. He works for the Queen of England much of the time and spends months in Dubai and Germany. He has trained “Join Up” instructors all over the world to teach his methods, and he tours and visits them. Would I want to take over the Monty Roberts business? Well, that isn’t my forte. Dad works with horses, and I specialize in the horses’ environment. My expertise is in the stables. I don’t want to follow in my Dad’s footsteps. He has his trained instructors all over the world, so he doesn’t need me to continue his work. I love what I’m doing. It’s lots of work, but it’s really rewarding. I help people build their dreams. I don’t have one client that hasn’t ended up being a friend.
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Science
James Lala’s WELLINGTON QUARANTINE helps keep horses safe after international travel. BY CARRIE WIRTH
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PHOTO: CHRISTIAN PALMER
T
he process of importation and quarantine can seem daunting for an owner importing a horse from abroad−whether it’s the first time or the twentieth time. James Lala makes it his mission to safely and efficiently expedite horses through the process while providing a rider-friendly, workmanlike facility to get travel weary horses back on track. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) carefully regulates the importation of horses into the country and the rules and regulations can seem overwhelming. Stallions and mares entering the U.S. from countries known to have Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) are required by federal law to be quarantined and go through a testing process to prove that they do not have the sexually transmitted disease. According to the USDA, “CEM is caused by a bacteria Taylorella equigenitalis. Clinical signs may include a vaginal discharge in up to 40 percent of affected mares, abortion and infertility. Stallions typically show no clinical signs. Stallions and mares can become chronic carriers of CEM and be sources of infection for future outbreaks. The transmission rate is high and naturally occurs by mating and can also be spread via semen collected for artificial insemination. The other option for those mares and stallions is to go to the CEM waiver tent on the show grounds, which is usually located in the FEI area. But, they aren’t permitted to leave that area, except to walk to the show ring and back. Most people opt to send their stallions and mares early to go through the quarantine process because once it is completed, their horses are free to go to a farm and get turned out, or go on a trail ride and have a normal life. “For mares, they do a blood test and three cultures that have to be taken three days apart,” explained James Lala, who owns and
operates James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine in Wellington, Fla. “It takes eight days to get the results of the set of cultures. The shortest timeline the process can be completed in is 14 days. We also start the cleaning and packing process right away. We clean with Nolvasan and pack the mare’s vagina with Furason. This process has to be done for five days in a row after the cultures are completed.” “If the test comes back with overgrowth/ fungus and you haven’t started the cleaning and packing process, then you have to wait 21 days before you can culture again, then do five days of cleaning and packing again,” continued Lala. “It can be an extended stay. I do my best to help prevent an extended stay.” For stallions, the process takes an average of 36 days. A culture is taken from the horse’s penis when he arrives. Then, the stallion must be bred via live cover to two mares provided
by the quarantine facility. Then they wait for the results of mares’ tests to come back, which must be negative for CEM. For five days in a row after the stallion has bred, his penis must be cleaned with Nolvasan and packed with Furason. “I provide two test mares per stallion,” Lala said. “I have the mares prepared for the stallions, these mares are experienced and know what they are doing to keep everything safe and moving along on schedule.” Lala works closely with Dr. Erin Newkirk from Byron Reid and Associates, who does all the testing, cleaning and packing, and manages the live breeding of the stallions and the test mares. In addition, veterinarians from the Florida Department of Agriculture must be on hand when the horses arrive from the airport to unseal the trailer and check the paperwork. They are also on site to regulate every procedure from monitoring cultures taken to the live breeding. “Dr. Newkirk is a master at getting the test mares in season without ovulating, so they don’t get pregnant,” Lala continued. “If they’re not in season that can be risky, because they may not want to be bred, putting the stallion at risk. Plus, I feel it is basically, rape—not fair to the mare. If they were to get pregnant, they’d get a shot of Lutalyse, like the ‘morning after’ shot for horses.” It is evident that Lala puts safety first while keeping the rider and owner in mind during the quarantine process. His impressive list of clients return year after year. “Two top European riders sent their stallions to me to ride while they did quarantine, then they flew them to California,” Lala said. “Obviously, that was more expensive but they have been very pleased here. We’ve had four or five horses that were in the Olympics. Almost every top rider has been here. Gold medalists, world cup horses and the country’s top hunters have stayed here.” PAGE 97
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S P R I N G 2 0 1 3 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E R LY | 8 5
Travel Want to do something really different? How about RIDING ICELANDIC HORSES in a tiny Czech village? BY ABBY GOOGEL
I
n a small village called Ludvikov-pod-Smrkem lies the ultimate in secret equestrian vacation spots–Ludvikov Horses and Holiday. Located on the border of three countries (Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic), Ludvikov is nestled into the middle of the Jizera Mountains, with breathtaking views of the rolling mountains, hillsides, and forests in every direction. Owned by a Dutch couple, Gideon and Hefziba, it’s the perfect getaway for any outdoorsman, combining a peaceful environment with closeness to nature and, of course, a little taste of Czech culture. Early mornings in the quaint guest house or on the grassy campsite are so quiet that you can nearly hear the horses grazing. The guest house contains very simple rooms with comfortable beds. Guests share a cozy lounge area with stunning views and a kitchen space that is available for cooking if you prefer to stay in. The area offers a wide range of small restaurants. Typical of a small European village, most restaurants are tiny and intimate, serving typical Czech fare. Visit U Nadrazi, a small restaurant at the steps of the nearby Hajništ train station, or the Grill bar Krakonoš, open Wednesday through Sunday. The outdoor garden at Na Kamenu in the neighboring town of Frydlant offers a variety of traditional dishes, in addition to some international basics, such as pastas and soups. Though most visitors come specifically to ride the Icelandic horses through the mountainous trails, even the non-horse-enthused can enjoy hiking and biking through the beautiful terrain or relaxing on the sunny deck of the
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guesthouse. Neighboring towns also provide many different attractions. Whether you are interested in shopping or visiting the “aquapark” in the city of Liberec, skiing at the resort in Harrachov, or visiting the castle in Frydlant, there is plenty to do. AN IDYLLIC VAL L E Y
Hidden in the Jizera Mountains, this cozy equestrian escape offers an authentic taste of country life in a small Czech village.
With vast amounts of land, Ludvikov’s herd of Icelandic horses roam in expansive pastures that stretch for miles. Icelandic horses are docile, but sturdy—perfect for trail riding on rugged terrain. Hefziba is often found training her Icelandic stallion, Baldi, and if you are lucky, you may even see a little foal brought to life. With a herd of over 40 horses only steps away from the guesthouse, there are mounts to suit every level of rider. Visitors who have never sat on a horse before can take a few lessons in the outdoor arena. Or for the more experienced rider, Gideon climbs aboard his Friesian stallion, Omke, to lead five-hour treks to the top of the “Smrk” (the tallest mountain in the area). The views of the beautiful countryside are unforgettable, no matter what time of day you choose to ride. Ludvikov Horses and Holiday is truly a unique experience for all. Pricing is approximately $1,000.00 per week for two guests. This includes breakfast and three hours of riding each day. Pricing may be adjusted depending on riding preferences and length of stay. Ludvikov-PodSmrkem is approximately 87 miles from the airports in Prague, Dresden, and Wroclaw, Poland. Prague’s airport is the largest and most accessible, therefore many guests fly into Prague and board a bus to the village. PAGE 97.
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FAVORITES Page14 Rocking Squares Frederik Roijé $5,790 - $10,550 Netherlands +31 (0)20-4165706 info@roije.com roije.com Gioco Rocking Horse Allê Design Suitable for children from 18 months to 5 years old. Brazil +54 2105 5929 alle@alledesign.com.br alledesign.com Friendly Toys’ Personalized Rocking Horse $129 Recommended for children over 1 year JSC VAVAS Lithuania etsy.com/shop/FriendlyToys Playsam Rocking Horse Moolka $195 Recommended for children over 1 year 888-505-5455 contact@moolka.com moolka.com Giddyup Rocking Stool Tim Wigmore New Zealand +64 4 388 6461 designtree.co.nz Wooden Rocking Horse The Wooden Horse $167 Recommended for children over 2 years Lithuania. +370 655 34284 hello@thewoodenhorse.eu thewoodenhorse.eu
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Pier 1 Rocking Horse $60 Not suitable for children. 817-252-8000 pier1.com Vintage Wood Carousel Horse Restoration Hardware $249 877-747-4671 restorationhardware.com rhbabyandchild.com Europe’s Favorite Rocking Horse Kensington Rocking Horse Company East Sussex, UK +44 7967 644869 rh@kensington-rockinghorses.co.uk kensington-rocking-horses. co.uk Swinger Rocking Horse Plan $22 Includes eyes, tail, metalwork. Wood and assembly required Suitable for riders up to about six years old. Hobbies Ltd Norfolk +4501508 549330 enquiries@alwayshobbies. com alwayshobbies.com Cheval A Sascule En Rotin Claudine Dupic, Lucine Vintage $193 France +33 06 11 57 60 67 lucinevintage@hotmail.fr lucinevintage.com
Decorative Wood and Wire Rocking Horse 912-617-2187 Savannah, GA etsy.com/shop/browneyeddaisy GIVING BACK Page 18 Danny & Ron’s Rescue Camden, SC 803-900-9800 saverstrays@aol.com dannyandronsrescue.com STYLE Page 26 Dappled Grey Blog molly@dappledgrey.com dappledgrey.com Manifattura Valor +49 (0) 711 65 62 08 64 info@manifattura-valor.com manifattura-valor.com FASHION Page 28 LA Saddlery Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA 818-842-4300 lasaddlery.com Pikeur britches Pikeur, UK +44 0 14334 601889 www.pikeur.biz Animo polo shirt Animo jacket Animo Italy +39 0424 561522 animoitalia.com Joules polo shirt Joules, UK +44 0845 2507170 joulesteam@joules.com joules.com
Winston Show Jacket Winston Equestrian Belgium +32 493 840 108 info@winston-equestrian. com winston-equestrian.com Whitaker Britches John Whitaker International Ltd. UK +44 01706 340500 darrenb@jwiltd.net johnwhitakerintltd.com Sergio Grasso boots/ chaps Sergio Grasso Srl Italy +39 045 7760133 info@sergiograsso.it sergiograsso.it Charles Owen is the distributor for Whitaker and Sergo Grasso. Charles Owen, Inc. 800-793-4181 info@charlesowen.co.uk www.charlesowen.co.uk MINDY PETERS Page 32 Mindy Peters Arabians info@MParabians.com mparabians.com Arlene Magid Arabian Horse Consultant arlenemagid.com FLOORCLOTHS Page 44
Canvasworks lisa@canvasworksfloorcloths.com canvasworksfloorcloths. com
Lucas Equine Cynthiana, KY 859-234-6920 info@lucasequine.com lucasequine.com
HERMES GALLERY Page 50
Old Town Barns Pawling, NY 845-855-1450 barn411@oldtownbarns.com oldtownbarns.com
Saddleshop 24 Rue du Faubourg SaintHonoré, 75008 Paris, France +33 1 40 17 46 00 hermes.com George Kamper, Photographer 305-528-2823 gk@georgekamper.com georgekamper.com
Pegasus Design Group Holly A. Matt Southern Pines NC 910-692-1055 holly@pegasusdesigngroup. com pegasusdesigngroup.com
BERNIE TRAURIG Page 64 info@equestriancoach.com www.bernietraurig.com equestriancoach.com
Laurel Roberts Equine Design and Consulting Salinas, CA 831-682-1121 info@laurelrobertsequinedesign.com hotstable.com
AMAZING BARNS Page 70
SCIENCE Page 86
Blackburn Architects Washington, DC 202-337-1755 blackburnarch.com CMW Equine Lexington, KY 800-494-6623 jmartinolich@cmwaec. com www.cmwequine.com
James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine, LLC South Wellington, FL 561-906-6668 james@jameslalaquarantine. com jameslalaquarantine.com
GH2 Gralla Equine Architects Norman, Oklahoma 405-701-1515 contact@gh2.com gh2equine.com
Ludvikov Horses & Holiday Gideon Manders & Hefziba Lindeman Ludvikov pod Smrkem 9 CR- 463 65 Nové Město pod Smrkem Tsjechië +420 482 325 610 info@ludvikovcz.com www.ludvikovcz.com
Arabians? Full service international Arabian Horse Consultant
Arlene Magid
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Services include: Prepurchase and Mating Consults
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Resources
Arabbits@aol.com www.ArleneMagid.com SU M M E R | 2 0 1 3 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RT E R LY | 9 7
Barn Dogs Meet Tuna and Peanut, HOLLY HUGO-VIDAL’S two “clowns in the cloaks of philosophers.”
O
ften described as “a clown in the cloak of a philosopher,” the French bulldog originated and continues to be used as a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face, and trademark “bat” ears. Prized for their affectionate nature and even disposition, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Lacemakers in 19th century Nottingham, England, selectively bred the early bulldog for a downsized or toy bulldog, for use as a lap pet. When the Industrial Revolution displaced some lacemakers to France, they took the dogs with them and soon the toy dogs became popular in France, where wealthy Americans doing the Grand Tour saw them and fell in love with them. In the late 1800s these toy bulldogs became known as French bulldogs, according to the American Kennel Club. P H OTO S G A LORE
While most people exchange obligatory photos of grandchildren on their smart phones, I upload every angle of my French bulldogs, Peanut and Tuna, to Facebook! We celebrate all occasions and holidays with cake and appropriate hats. These charming little dogs, with their
98 | E Q U E S T R I A N Q UA RTERLY | SUMMER | 2013
think of was to get her a playmate, or in this case a large chew toy! ENTER TUNA
Holly Hugo-Vidal and her French bulldogs, Tuna and Peanut. She says, “These little dogs are full of personality and very endearing, and I wouldn’t part with them for anything! Every day they make me smile!”
I’m not sure what I was thinking at the time, but off I went to the breeder asking for another Frenchie; alas, Tuna! He was so named by the breeder because he was the biggest puppy in the litter. Tuna is black brindle with a narrow white blaze, just like his half-sister, Peanut. That was the only resemblance. From day one, he was lovable, quiet, and a real sweetheart. Peanut is now 4 years old and has developed a sweet side, but still remains strong-willed and thinks she is not only a diva, but in charge of both Tuna and me! These little dogs are full of personality and very endearing, and I wouldn’t part with them for anything! Every day they make me smile!
squished flat faces, are irresistible and even make strangers smile. My first encounter with Frenchies, as they are commonly known, was at a horse show. So demure and quiet sitting on their owner’s laps, that was the dog for me! My first Frenchie, Peanut (a spectacular fawn color), was wild! We spent our first month together playing tug-ofwar and me dodging her incessant nipping at whatever body part I had within range. One of the solutions and the only positive one I could
Holly Hugo-Vidal lives in Rancho Santa Fe, California, but she is originally from the east coast, growing up in Westchester County, N.Y., where she lived for many years. She trained with the legendary horseman George Morris, who has remained a strong influence throughout her professional career, as well as writing the forward for her book. Another strong influence was former husband Victor Hugo-Vidal, with whom she ran a successful show barn in Connecticut. Many of Holly’s methods and exercises are very evident in her book Build Confidence Over Fences, published by Primedia. Holly specializes in hunters and equitation.
Where will you go in yours?
Dubarry of Ireland, 106 West Christine Rd, Nottingham, PA 19362, USA E: sales@dubarry.us Toll Free: 1-866-658-3569