Hendricks Churchill’s debut book celebrates the enduring beauty of rural America, showcasing country and city residences that blend vernacular architecture and American decorative traditions.
AACHEN
52
The CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival, held in Germany, is consistently the event Gold List voters most wish to attend. Blending prestige, tradition, and an electric atmosphere, this summer’s event delivered top-tier action, with U.S. riders clinching distinguished wins.
MARIGOLD ESTATE
56
Designed by Annie Carruthers of In-Site Design Group, the Marigold Equestrian Estate blends midcentury-modern aesthetics with thoughtful functionality, setting a new benchmark for elegant, purpose-built equestrian architecture.
DARRAGH KENNY
66
Irish Olympian Darragh Kenny, raised by horse-breeding parents in Offaly, Ireland, reflects on his rise to the top of show jumping, his journey to the Olympics, and his mission to mentor the next generation.
THE 12TH ANNUAL EQLIVING GOLD LIST
74
The annual Gold List reveals readers’ favorites across a variety of categories. This prestigious survey highlights top choices in travel, show venues, horses, riders, clothing and fashion, jewelry, tack, and more.
WEATHERLY STROH
86
Artist Weatherly Stroh, a lifelong equestrian, reimagines the horse world through her bold, contemporary oil paintings. Drawing inspiration from sport horses, she brings each subject to life through expressive brushwork.
DISCOVER A SOPHISTICATED KIND OF UNWIND
Where elegance meets effortless. Relax on our warm beaches. Indulge in our exquisite restaurants. And get pampered from head to toe in our award-winning spa.
DEPARTMENTS
Cover art by equine artist Jaime Corum. JaimeCorumEquineArt.com
Title: Tess & Maude Oil on panel.
See a full gallery of Jaime’s work featured in the July/August 2020 issue of Equestrian Living
EDITOR’S NOTE 8 Welcome to Equestrian Living RESOURCES 93
Look for CONTACT INFO | PAGE 93 to find the products and services in this issue.
BARN DOGS 98
Sierra, Schuyler Riley’s clever Labrador, finds lost car keys, golf balls, and cash, helping her to become the famous equestrian’s useful assistant.
FAVORITES
Victoria McCullough, a leader in the Clydesdale world, funds research, drives animal protection laws, and works to rescue thousands of horses. Check out her favorite things, including books, foods, travel, and music.
Our selection of high-quality paddock and Chelsea boots will go the distance, both in and out of the saddle.
PEOPLE
Linda Moss’s Bespoke EQ Brands helps equestrian businesses develop a clear and intentional brand identity.
Professional polo player Pablo Dorignac aims to make polo accessible to all ages and skill levels through his La Dalila Polo School in Wellington, Florida. TECH
Smart saddle pads use discreet sensors to wirelessly monitor a horse’s pressure points, gait, and heart rate.
DÉCOR
Create a refined, elegant home space with equestrian accents like vintage silver trophies, horse-themed lamps, and tasteful wallpaper. BOOK
Read an excerpt from Finding Purpose by Chelsea Canedy. Her authentic and candid reminiscences take readers on a journey with her from insecurity to self-actualization.
FOOD+DRINK
Savor Executive Chef Jonathan Keane’s fresh halibut recipe, inspired by the Irish landscapes of Ashford Castle and Connemara.
TRAVEL
Torralbenc, a stunning agritourist estate on the Spanish island of Menorca, champions sustainability, local history, and luxury stays.
STYLE
Discover how to incorporate the fall season’s earthy reds and ambers into your wardrobe and home decor.
FASHION
Stay stylish and comfortable during seasonal shifts with smart layering. Find versatile apparel designed to take you from the barn to your next adventure.
WELCOME
Iadmit to enjoying good-hearted competition, and, like so many of our readers, I cast my votes in this year’s 12th edition of the Gold List. Filling out the survey is more than a casual pastime—it’s a spirited contest. Readers rally friends, drop not-so-subtle hints on social media, all in the hopes of victory for their favorite rider, brand, or getaway. From the finest saddles to the most revered show venues, every vote carries the weight of loyalty and pride.
This issue unveils the results, proving once again that equestrians never shy from competition. Not exactly a spoiler, but Aachen continued its winning streak in the “favorite event to attend” wish list. Since the category’s inception, Germany’s CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival, considered the pinnacle of global competition, has held the gold without interruption. This year, EQLiving had boots on the ground to capture the magic. Between her enthusiastic texts
from Germany: “There’s nothing like it!” photographer at large, Alden Corrigan, kept her shutter in constant motion as she documented the prestige, tradition, and adrenaline-fueled highlights in elegant style.
Shifting from Germany to Ireland, contributing writer Sarah Lessler profiles multi-Olympian, Irish showjumper, Darragh Kenny. On course from a young age, Kenny has steadily climbed to the top of the sport, racking up wins at the world’s most elite competitions. Yet his focus extends beyond personal triumphs. He is committed to mentoring young riders and building a legacy at Oakland Stables while continuing to train and develop at the highest level.
Back at home, this issue celebrates the intersection of design and the equestrian lifestyle. Architect Annie Carruthers of In-Site Design Group showcases a residence and barn project that masterfully merges mid-century modern style with thoughtful equestrian functionality, successfully attaining a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. In another creative piece, we feature the vibrant paintings of Weatherly Stroh. Candid in her interview responses, we discover the source of her passion and how her relationship with horses shapes her work.
Our pages also whisk readers to a tranquil travel destination in Spain, serve up a delectable recipe from an Irish castle, introduce what’s new in equestrian technology, and explore the benefits of the hard-working paddock boot.
Recently, I watched an interview with the editor of a regional magazine I’ve
long admired. The publication’s focus is on the enticing aspects and distinctive characteristics of the specific region, while casting a wide net of what that encompasses. The mission is to be inclusive and appealing to readers far beyond the parameters of their geographic niche.
I believe we share a similar mindset, curating stories for a community of readers that includes avid equestrians and those who may never own a horse but appreciate the history, sport, and elegance that embody the equestrian lifestyle. With each issue, we aim to present an enticing mix of editorial content that resonates with a broad spectrum of enthusiasts, featuring in-depth interviews with champion equestrians, striking architecture, luxury travel, art, style, and more. It’s a celebration of all things equestrian, whether you’re in the saddle or simply along for the ride.
We’d love to hear from you. Send your thoughts about articles or the magazine to info@eqliving.com.
VOLUME 14 NUMBER 5
EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie B. Peters
SENIOR EDITOR Jill B. Novotny
PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR George Kamper
EDITORS AT LARGE Rebecca Baldridge, Judy Richter (2015-2022)
PHOTOGRAPHER AT LARGE Alden Corrigan
CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR Leslie Munsell, Beauty For Real CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rebecca Baldridge, Sarah Lessler, Schuyler Riley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Alden Corrigan, RSC Equestrian Media
DESIGN MANAGER Mary A. Stroup
SOCIAL MEDIA AND WEB CONTENT Maggie Carty Golon
DIGITAL & CLIENT SERVICES Sarah Lessler
EDITORIAL MANAGER Theresa Cardamone
EQ SPECIAL EVENTS Jennifer Pearman Lammer
UK-BASED LONDON EDITOR Bridget Arsenault
PUBLISHER C.W. Medinger
CONSULTANT George Fuller
PRINT Meghan Neely
PUBLIC RELATIONS Carrie Wirth, EQmedia.agency
NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Boyd Mulholland
ADVERTISING SALES
General: 929-262-0347, info@eqliving.com
Joyce Jones, 954-796-1809, jones@eqliving.com
Dick Holcomb, 770-331-7788, dickholc@gmail.com
Europe: Rosa Zampini, zampini@eqliving.com
EQLIVING ADVISORY BOARD
Bob Cacchione | Melissa Ganzi | Carson Kressley
Peter Leone | Victoria McCullough | Chip McKenney | Colleen and Tim McQuay
Mindy Peters | David Sloan | Kim Tudor | Chester Weber
EQUESTRIAN QUARTERLY (EQ) became EQUESTRIAN LIVING magazine in 2016 and is published six times yearly. It is distributed at selected equestrian locations, newsstands, and is available for home delivery for $28.95 | Canada $45.95.
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What books are on your bedside table: The Best Minds by Jonathan Rosen and The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom.
TV Show: National Geographic Drain the Oceans and The Sopranos.
Favorite food to cook at home: Beef Tenderloin and Yorkshire Pudding. There’s nothing like a billowy pudding.
Another riding discipline you’d love to try: Working equita Spanish horses.
Favorite Fragrance:
Prada Iris. It’s clean, simple, and gentle. Just perfect.
MY FAVORITES
Favorite show/venue: The Royal Winter Fair, Toronto.
It’s nostalgic, elegant, and features multiple breeds and disciplines.
Favorite Extravagance:
VICTORIA McCULLOUGH
The Chairman of Chesapeake Petroleum and a force in the Clydesdale world, Victoria makes historic contributions to research and science and drives hundreds of significant laws that protect animals and the environment. Her Triumph Project has rescued over 11,000 domestic and wild horses from slaughter since 2008 and is currently working to protect wild horses and burros on public land. Meet her at eqliving.com/the-world-of-victoria-mccullough
Favorite charities:
The Kevin Babington Foundation, The Caridad Center, and Danny & Ron’s Rescue. These three could warm the whole planet.
Helping my favorite show photographer, who had significant vision loss, get her vision restored at Mass Eye and Ear. Today, she is again preserving all of our memories.
Favorite town:
Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It’s a dream place.
Favorite Fashion Resource: Escada.
Favorite horse: Benedictene.
He’s difficult, quirky, and strong, but he gives me his whole heart anywhere.
Favorite restaurants: In the U.S., Harbour Court New York Yacht Club, Newport, Rhode Island. In Europe, Le Grill Hotel de Paris, Monaco. The rooftop recedes and reveals the stars.
Favorite escape/hotel: Hotel Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I listened to wolves while soaking in a bubble bath at midnight.
As a life-long equestrian with deep connections in that world and over 30 years of working in real estate sales, I can help you find your perfect horse property in this tight market.
I have already closed on one prestigious farm this year and have another in contract- both off-market properties in North Salem and Bedford. I always have a small inventory of off-market farms and land in Northern Westchester and Fairfield, Connecticut. I can also help refer you to top equestrian property brokers in other areas of the country as well.
#1 Agent in Douglas Elliman in Westchester 2022, 2023 & 2024*
Pinnacle Award Top 3% of Agents Company Wide*
Voted Favorite Equestrian Realtor in the East by Equestrian Living 2022, 2023 & 2024
+15 Acre Equestrian Property Sold off-market | North Salem, NY
Fairfax & Favor’s stylish and endlessly practical Boudica Quilted Ankle Boot, in mahogany, is an all-terrain boot with no shortage of design details. From the wraparound leather straps with chevron buckle, leather piping, and a sturdy sole, this boot is ideal for the colder months. $420.
The Inclement Cropped Tassle Boot by Penelope Chilvers will keep you dry without forfeiting style, comfort, and practicality. The weatherproof suede is oiled for maximum water repellence, and the interior boasts a moisture-wicking technology.
$510.
The Heritage Zip Paddock Boot by Ariat is a favorite for its incredible comfort, performance, and reliable durability. Its recent update remains true to its original ethos, while its sleek, refined lines and all-new rider-tested sole enhance riders’ comfort and traction.
$159.95.
KICK START
PADDOCK and CHELSEA style boots that go the distance, in and out of the saddle.
Parlanti’s Oslo Work Boot stands the test under any conditions. With rugged functionality, the boot combines timeless design with practical features. In water-repellent suede, the Gore-Tex lining keeps feet warm and dry, and the vulcanized sole provides exceptional grip. $189.
Based on the design of Vogel’s custom-made Noho boots, this standard version offers the same outstanding quality and comfort. Designed to pair effortlessly with Vogel’s half chaps, the Noho features supple leather construction and a minimalist form, ensuring durability and style. Ideal for everyday use and competition, the boot delivers superior functionality without compromising elegance.
$600.
From Ariat’s Bench Made artisan collection, the Eleanor Almond Toe Chelsea Boot (in suede) brings oldworld craftsmanship and Western sophistication to a time-honored silhouette. Crafted by master artisans in León, Mexico, the boot beautifully fuses comfort and performance in the finest leather and suede. $269.95.
CULTIVATING BRAND DISTINCTION
The founder of Bespoke EQ Brands, LINDA R. MOSS, brings refined sensibility and deep equestrian roots to the world of brand storytelling.
BY STEPHANIE PETERS
Linda Moss knows a thing or two about pivotal moments.
Over a three-decade career in high-level management consulting and business strategy, a series of shifts navigated her toward her talents and love for marketing, product development, and branding.
But it was on a quiet Sunday morning at her barn, while grooming her two off-the-track Thoroughbreds, that she made her most personal pivot yet: blending a lifelong love of horses with a professional passion for strategic marketing. The result was Bespoke EQ Brands, a boutique agency offering tailored brand development and strategy for equestriancentered businesses.
“I’ve had a love for horses, and have been captivated by them all my life,” Linda says. “My personal passion is Thoroughbreds and off-the-track Thoroughbreds, and much like I’ve pivoted in my career, they pivot in theirs. If you think about the fact that most of them are bred to go to the racetrack, and they make it or they don’t, but eventually, for a variety of different reasons, they retire when they’re young. So, transitioning them from one career to another very much mirrors and inspires me.”
Linda’s journey with horses began like many others, riding ponies whenever she could and going on trail rides at the local barn. Later, when her career allowed, she bought her first horse, an Arabian mare, and began showing in English pleasure.
While many of Bespoke EQ Brand’s clients are in the creative realm, working
as equestrian-focused artisans, including high-end jewelers, pattern and homeware designers, and more, others are highperformance athletes and trainers from various disciplines, and producers of business-to-business equestrian goods. But the common thread isn’t industry; it’s intention.
“I look for clients who want to invest in themselves, and part of that is a discovery journey,” Linda explains. “I can help people establish where they are and what their vision is. And then I can help them get to that destination. You don’t know what you don’t know until you start defining it.”
Moss’s background gives her a uniquely analytical lens. She’s accustomed to parachuting in, determining a business’s direction, and steering it north
if it’s going south or figuring out which direction it needs to go to achieve its goals. “I think one of the things that capsulizes Bespoke is that everything we design, write, or produce has one purpose: to make a meaningful difference in your business and your life,” says Linda.
Collaboration is an essential aspect of Linda’s approach. “There’s a process of questions and inquiries that we go through to make sure that you know you’re resonating with not only who your current customer base is, but the customer base you want to attract,” Linda emphasizes. “Over time, I’ve created my own methodology around branding. I don’t just develop something and turn over a logo. It’s a very collaborative process that starts with a conversation, leading to draft sketches within a color palette and complementary font options. This ensures you’re on the right track and then expands in increments. It’s asking ‘what do you want people to know about you?’ in a graphic representation format.
“So much of what I do is collaborative. The initial stages are a bit of a time investment, but that’s the way I like it. The other thing is that I spend time each day at the barn with my horses as well, because, after all, that remains my mission,” smiles Linda.
At its core, Bespoke EQ Brands is about creating space—for clarity, creativity, and equestrian identity to evolve with intention. Moss’s approach is a reminder that meaningful change often begins quietly—with the right conversation.
GREGORIO PHOTOGRAPHY
Above: Linda R. Moss with Ziconic (left) and Milyone; Bespoke EQ Brands branding, Ziconic and Fox.
Greyson By Jamie Corum
UNDER SADDLE INTELLIGENCE
SMART PADS provide a window into the horse’s well-being and performance.
BY JILL NOVOTNY
Equestrian technology continues to progress rapidly, from veterinary advancements and phone applications to stable equipment. The latest in equestrian tech can be used as you ride to gain all kinds of insights into horse and rider. While traditional saddle pads protect the horse’s back and provide comfort, these new smart pads do much more—they provide a window into the horse’s well-being and performance.
Smart saddle pads look and feel like standard pads, but they contain an array of tiny, discreet sensors. These sensors are typically placed in strategic locations to monitor key metrics, such as pressure distribution, gait analysis, and even heart rate. The data collected by these sensors is transmitted wirelessly, via Bluetooth, to a smartphone or tablet app. This information allows a rider to get real-time feedback on their horse’s performance and comfort.
Pressure sensors measure how the rider’s weight is distributed across the horse’s back. An uneven pressure point could indicate a poorly fitting saddle, a rider’s unbalanced posture, or even a subtle lameness issue in the horse. By visualizing this data in an app, a rider can make immediate adjustments to their position and the saddle’s fit, preventing potential injury and improving the horse’s comfort.
But the technology doesn’t stop at pressure. Many smart pads also incorporate motion sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) to analyze the horse’s gait. They can measure the symmetry of the stride, the rhythm of the canter, and the overall balance of the horse. This is incredibly valuable for trainers looking to optimize performance and for vets diagnosing subtle lameness. The data provides an objective, repeatable way to track progress and identify issues that might be difficult to spot with the naked eye.
Some advanced models even include heart rate monitors that track the horse’s cardiovascular response to work to provide insights into fitness levels, stress, and recovery. For a rider preparing for competition, this data is invaluable for developing an effective training program. It helps ensure the horse is getting the right amount of work without being over-exerted.
The primary benefit of smart pads is their ability to promote horse welfare. By identifying pressure points and gait irregularities early, riders can address problems before they become serious injuries. This proactive approach to horse care is a significant step forward from the traditional method of waiting for a problem to become obvious.
For the rider, the data provides objective feedback that helps them improve their riding skills. The visual representation of how their weight shifts in the saddle can help them become more balanced and effective. For trainers, the pads offer a powerful teaching tool, allowing them to demonstrate concepts with concrete data.
As the technology continues to evolve, smart saddle pads are becoming more affordable and accessible. They are a testament to how technology can be harnessed to improve the relationship between humans and animals.
PHOTO: E-STRIDE
PHOTO: KENTUCKY EQUINE RESEARCH
The E-Stride Harmony pressure-sensing mat.
Completely renovated and ultra-private, this stunning estate on Maidstone Drive offers 5 bedrooms plus a separate, fully equipped 1-bedroom guest cottage. The spacious primary suite features a serene sun porch, while all three upstairs bedrooms boast their own private balconies Perfect for entertaining or family living, it features a large pool area, lush landscaping, a striking live wall, and all impact glass throughout. Feels like a private resort--luxury, comfort, and style in the exclusive Palm Beach Polo and Country Club.
Home of the Finest Real Estate
AN EQUESTRIAN LIBRARY
Create a SOPHISTICATED SPACE in your home, with vintage items and tasteful
1. Horse Racing Trophy from from 1stDibs, Sterling Silver Art Nouveau Design, Walker & Hall 1925. $4,653.79.
2. Bronze Horse Jockey Racing Statue in the style of Pierre Jules Mene, at auction at 1stDibs. $1,175.
3. Oval hand-painted Waste Paper Basket by Besselink & Jones. $712.
5. MindtheGap’s Equestrian Plaid wallpaper in green. $209 per roll.
6. The vintage leather stirrup Letter Holder by Annabel James. $223.60.
7. Louis XVI Period French Antique Chest, available from Jean-Marc Fray Antiques on Chairish. $10,500.
8. Vintage equestrian-themed Fireplace Tool Set in brass from 86Vintage. $2,400.
Extend your growing season.
10x14 COLONIAL GABLE WOOD GREENHOUSE WITH FLOOR
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.....Crafted with high quality LP SmartSide siding and trim primed and ready to paint. Includes corrugated polycarbonate light-entry roofing designed to withstand extreme climates.
This greenhouse kit includes wood shelving for storage, rods for hanging baskets, louver screened vents for optimal airflow, and plenty of windows for abundant natural light. ......Easy assembly. All panels are pre-assembled and ready for installation, complete with detailed instructions and hardware. No additional cutting is required! Only $15,486.
THE LONG ROAD TO ENOUGH
An exclusive excerpt from FINDING PURPOSE from the book by Chelsea Canedy.
My mother once said to me, “There will always be somebody better than you.”
I don’t remember the exact context of the statement, and I know now, looking back, that it was most likely meant to shore me up when I was down about my own performance. She was trying to build the understanding that there would be some things in life that I might be really good at, where I would maybe be better than the other people around me—but then there would be other things that I wouldn’t be as good at, and in those moments, there would be other people better than me.
Somehow, though, my young mind internalized my mother’s well-intended message as, “You will never be good enough; others will always be better.”
This created a level of internal pressure I didn’t realize I was putting on myself, despite what I had undeniably achieved with horses and the pats on the back I’d received from individuals I respected. It wasn’t enough. I wanted to be seen as one of the best and accepted into what I perceived as a circle of greatness consisting of the upper-level riders I was competing against at eventing competitions.
Square Books.
For several years, I competed Finn, Lucy, and a handful of client horses every other weekend, riding against the likes of Boyd Martin, Buck Davidson, Doug Payne, Will Coleman, and Karen and David O’Connor. I longed to be noticed by them. I daydreamed about being picked out as special and seen as talented, as one deserving to be in their midst. The desperation I felt in those days is still palpable to me. I would be stabled down the aisle from one of the stars I was striving to be, and I would shyly say hello, hoping my introduction would lead to some deeper interaction, which it never did. I would go to the competitor parties often held on Saturday nights at events, and pray that one of the “top riders” would notice me, remember me, and ask me to join their elite table. I was surrounded by people constantly, all enjoying the sport I loved, but it was one of the loneliest times of my life. I was never happy. I was never satisfied with the success I had. What I experienced was never enough because I thought I was never going to be enough. I told myself I would only know I had “made it” if one of the riders I had put on a pedestal told me that I had. During this time I was also teaching lessons for members of the local Pony Club. At one point, the District Commissioner of the Club put together a clinic with a woman who was working as a trainer under the O’Connors. I rode Lucy, and many of the younger Pony Club riders also attended. There was a
This excerpt from Finding Purpose by Chelsea Canedy is reprinted with permission from Trafalgar
The equestrian lifestyle is part of the soul of Spring Island Our Members enjoy riding along 35 miles of trails that wind through stunning ecosystems and vistas Here, your home and your horse exist in harmony. Beyond the saddle, discover a community where wine lovers, artists, golfers, and outdoor enthusiasts connect and thrive.
Your adventure begins here.
FINDING PURPOSE
teenage boy who had recently purchased a lovely, well-trained Thoroughbred to compete. The clinician took a liking to both this horse and the young rider, and at the end of the clinic, she offered him the opportunity to go and train at the O’Connors for a couple of months that coming summer. I am embarrassed to admit that not only was I annoyed that one of my regular students, part of my relied-upon income, would be gone for a long chunk of time (therefore not paying me for lessons), but I was also incredibly jealous of the opportunity he had been offered. Someone had noticed his talent and wanted to help him develop it—he was being given what I had been wishing would happen for myself for years.
By that point I had a long-running internal story that told me I was always being held back because I could never
afford a nice enough horse to be truly competitive. And from time to time, in moments like the one with the O’Connors’ trainer, this narrative reared its ugly head. I was sure that if I had only been given the same opportunities other young riders who had moved up the ranks had, I would have “made it” already. Now, I began telling myself, I was simply too old to be singled out in such a way. For me, I was sure, the opportunity was gone. The whole situation with this clinician choosing a younger Pony Club member over me served to solidify my belief that I was on the “outside”—I was never going to make it and never going to be good enough.
In the grips of that story, I could
not find a way to be happy for anyone who received the opportunities that I so deeply wanted. I was in a vicious cycle of jealousy, isolation, and false bravado, leading nowhere useful. I could only feel sorry for myself. The chip on my shoulder grew along with my neediness, and I’m sure it was palpable from the outside. Today, I can definitely sense it in others within whom I recognize my old tendencies. It is not an attractive quality. And it does not make you want to go out of your way to help or befriend that person.
Ilook back now, and I can see so many missed opportunities, like the opportunity to learn from and connect with other human beings in a genuine way, and the opportunity to truly appreciate what horses do for people and how
our love for them connects us. I was so desperate to be part of some imagined elite club whose approval I was sure would mean I was “good enough” and that I would “make it” that I wasn’t open to other possibilities or directions. I thought that riding at the Olympic level was the only end game that meant anything because it would prove that I was better than all the other riders who never reached to that level. But instead of honing the skills I had and feeling grateful for the horses I could ride, I spent all my time thinking about the things I didn’t have. I lived in a state of lack. A scarcity mindset. I thought that working harder and pushing through would improve the situation I perceived to be so poor, but all it did was lead to burnout. I was exhausted and frustrated and couldn’t see the gift that was the horses who were right in front of me. I could not see the opportunity these “imperfect” beings
afforded me to learn and understand others in different ways. As a rider, and as a human, I wasn’t ready for that lesson yet. I had to sink lower, hit my rock bottom, before I could figure out a new way to be with myself, with other people, and perhaps most importantly, with horses.
I was in my early twenties when my life and my negative mindset started to feel unsustainable as it was. There was no joy. All I did was drive relentlessly toward a seemingly unattainable goal—one that I had voiced out loud to so many people in my life that turning back from it felt like it would be just another failure, like my recent divorce.
I didn’t know what to do or which way to turn. All I knew was that I was unhappy in my life with horses, and for so long, horses had been my saving grace and place of peace.
Sometimes, when the path you are on feels like a one-way ride, you can’t even
imagine that other paths might exist. So you soldier on, with blinders in place, and you wonder what the point of each day’s struggle toward a goal is when you’re never going to be good enough to reach it.
Looking back, it’s tempting to see that chunk of my twenties as a waste of time and energy, and to kick myself for all the missed opportunities and for what I can see was a lot of wallowing in self-pity. But that period was part of my path. We all have hills and valleys we need to walk over and through. It’s cliche, I know, but they are what shape us. They apply the necessary pressure to create change.
Without discomfort from a struggle up or a fall down, there’s no real impetus to step in a different direction.
POLO FOR THE PEOPLE
BY REBECCA BALDRIDGE PHOTOS: RSC EQUESTRIAN MEDIA
Bring up the topic of polo, and the average person’s thoughts run to “Pretty Woman” and champagne divot stomps. It’s a rarified sport enjoyed by British royals and billionaires, and you won’t find mere mortals brandishing a mallet.
Professional polo player and coach Pablo Dorignac intends to change that perception. He founded the La Dalila Polo School, based in Wellington, Florida, with the goal of making polo more widely accessible to new players. Few people could be more suited to the task.
A former 7-goal professional and winner of Tortugas, one of Argentina’s most prestigious tournaments, Pablo descends from a long line of polo players. Father Gaston Dorignac and uncle Frankie Dorignac were both rated 10-goals, together winning the Argentine Triple Crown and playing in 17 Argentine Open finals. Polo has long been a way of life for the Dorignac family, and Pablo is passionate about sharing his love for the sport.
hand it over to a groom. Dorignac teaches students all about horse care, from tacking and untacking to grooming, feeding, and more. He’s passionate about his students developing a sense of connection with horses.
Children’s polo, with group lessons, summer camps, and after-school programs, is a focus at La Dalila, and Dorignac emphasizes the benefits that polo can offer. “For kids, learning polo isn’t just about the sport itself. While polo builds responsibility, discipline, and teamwork, just like other sports, it offers the additional benefit of bonding with the horses.”
For adults, La Dalila offers both group and private lessons, and coaching is available for all levels. A beginners’ league offers students the opportunity to play regularly. Dorignac emphasizes that his goal for every player, no matter their skill level, is to be safe, feel happy, and enjoy every moment. A strong foundation in riding is critical, as a lack of basic riding skills puts everyone at risk. Dorignac says, “My philosophy is simple—you can’t be in too much of a hurry. Building skill and confidence takes time.”
Says Dorignac, “It’s possible to learn to play polo at any age. I offer a versatile range of programs, with children starting as young as 7 and adults of all ages. I had one student who started riding at 70 and went on to win his first tournament two years later.”
La Dalila’s core concept involves more than just learning to play the game; the school focuses on teaching every aspect of horsemanship, a unique approach in the world of polo. Many people learn to ride without ever learning how to care for a horse. At La Dalila, don’t expect to jump off your horse and
The La Dalila Polo Club has recently relocated, and the striking 10-acre facility includes not only the polo field, barn, and paddocks, but also event spaces and plenty of room for the post-match asados that are an integral part of polo culture. Dorignac is committed to fostering a community centered on the love of polo.. He says, “I encourage camaraderie by hosting barbecues at the barn, where families and amateurs feel just as welcome as professionals. Polo is so much more than just a sport; it’s a community and a way of life.”
Pablo and wife Elena Dorignac discuss the philosophy that sets La Dalila apart.
A CONNEMARA KITCHEN
Executive Chef Jonathan Keane of THE LODGE AT ASHFORD CASTLE shares his fresh halibut with bacon, cabbage, and oyster aioli recipe.
HALIBUT WITH BACON AND CABBAGE RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
For the halibut and cabbage
180g halibut (or turbot) per person
100g chopped green cabbage
2 rashers of diced bacon
For the oyster aioli
8 fresh oysters, shucked and removed from their shells
6 egg yolks
2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
200ml cream
Olive oil, for cooking
1 teaspoon of butter
Fresh lemon juice, to taste
2 teaspoons of white wine vinegar
600ml vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
METHOD
1. Prepare the oyster aioli.
Start by carefully opening the oysters and removing them from their shells. Place the oysters into a blender.
Add the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Blend the ingredients, then slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil while the mixer is running.
This will create a creamy, emulsified aioli. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more
salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Set the aioli aside for later use.
2. Cook the cabbage.
In a large pan, heat some olive oil and sauté the diced bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown.
Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about a minute, allowing it to soften slightly.
Pour in the cream and let it reduce while the cabbage cooks through, making sure the flavors meld together. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-fry the halibut.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
Once hot, add the halibut fillets to the pan and cook for around three to four minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. For extra richness, add a teaspoon of butter to the pan and let it melt over the fish as it finishes cooking.
ASSEMBLY
To plate, start by placing a generous spoonful of the cabbage mixture on each plate. Gently lay the halibut fillet on top of the cabbage.
Finish by drizzling the oyster aioli over the fish and cabbage, allowing the creamy aioli to pool around the dish.
Originally built in 1865 for the Estate Manager of 800-year-old Ashford Castle, The Lodge at Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland, is a proud part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, featuring elegant, white-washed architecture and views that rival the best in the world. Windows frame inspiring vistas over placid Lough Corrib, one of Ireland’s largest lakes, backed by the rolling, emerald hills of Connemara. The Lodge offers country house charm, fine dining in Wilde’s Restaurant, and an exceptional collection of estate activities. This destination is one of Ireland’s finest for weddings, pairing warm Irish hospitality with a modern appeal.
WILDE’S , at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, serves classical, locally sourced dishes with views over the waters of Lough Corrib. Under the inspired direction of award-winning Executive Chef JONATHAN KEANE , described as “one of the country’s most exciting chefs,” this is a popular destination for local foodies and visitors from afar. Jonathan creates a variety of delicious dishes that showcase the unique flavors of the finest local produce, from succulent Irish beef and lamb to fish and seafood fresh from the waters of Galway Bay and the Connemara coastline
From 4-H to Five-Star, Cindy Has Her Boots on the Ground for You
Property represents more than a place. It holds history, legacy, family tradition and the promise of a solid foundation on which to build your future.
With deep roots in Virginia’s equestrian countryside and decades of experience matching buyers to properties that reflect their vision, Cindy is honored to be a Gold List winner for favorite equestrian realtor of the South for the third year. Whether it’s a charming country home, a historic estate, or a premier equestrian property, she understands that every client’s dream is unique. And she knows how to make it a reality.
As your partner from search to close, Cindy brings more than just market expertise. She brings a wealth of knowledge, a genuine passion for the land and its traditions, and a network built over years of trust and connection. For Cindy, it’s not simply about buying or selling. It’s about finding a place where your story can unfold for generations to come.
Cindy’s father and grandfather Alexandria, Virginia 1945
TORRALBENC
This AGRITOURISM ESTATE in the Mediterranean is rich in serenity, history, and eco-consiousness.
BY JILL NOVOTNY
On the captivating island of Menorca in Spain’s Balearic archipelago, a unique destination awaits: Torralbenc. It’s not a traditional resort; Torralbenc is a stunning agritourism estate, meticulously restored from a historic farmstead. It offers a connection to the island’s culture and landscape, blending centuries-old heritage with modern, tranquil luxury.
The estate is a collection of historic whitewashed farm buildings; some of its structures date back to the 17th century. These buildings, once a hub of agricultural activity, have been carefully brought back to life, preserving their original architectural integrity and rustic charm. The property is set on a gentle hill, surrounded by its own vineyards and rolling
farmlands, providing a spectacular vantage point of the Mediterranean Sea. Torralbenc’s collection of 27 elegant rooms and cottages each thoughtfully reflect authentic Menorcan charm with the use of natural fabrics, soothing colors, limestone, and wood. A defining feature of these accommodations is the inclusion of private outdoor spaces, each with a balcony, terrace, or a secluded garden.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Torralbenc’s story is woven into the island’s past. When the country house was acquired in 2005, it was largely in ruins, and the expansive lands had been unworked for many years. The painstaking restoration project spanned several years, culminating in the property’s opening in 2013
The estates’ 190 acres include 35 acres of vineyards, where Torralbenc proudly produces its own-label wine since 2016. The grounds are rich with history, from ancient threshing floors, traditional stables, and the iconic dry-stone walls. The estate stands on land that has uncovered significant archaeological remains dating back to the second millennium BC, including the enigmatic taulas, distinctive T-shaped Talaiotic constructions found exclusively in Menorca.
CULINARY DELIGHTS AND SERENE RETREATS
The gastronomic experience at Torralbenc’s restaurant is a central pillar of its commitment to the “Menorcan slow-life”. Under the expert guidance of Michelin Star chef Gorka Txapartegi, the cuisine embraces simple,
honest Mediterranean techniques while deeply honoring the roots of traditional Menorcan gastronomy. A robust “zero-km product policy” is rigorously implemented, ensuring the kitchen prioritizes local and organic ingredients. Many of these ingredients, including their distinctive wines, olive oil, fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and farm-fresh eggs, are cultivated directly on the Torralbenc estate.
The Torralbenc Cellar has garnered significant recognition, notably being awarded “Best Wine Tourism Hotel at the International Wine Challenge Merchant Awards Spain.” The journey to cultivate these vineyards was challenging, transforming hard, chalky, unworked land into productive soil. Today, the vineyard cultivates 10 grape varieties, including Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay.
Torralbenc’s dedicated wellness area offers a comprehensive menu of treatments, including Swedish massages with rosemary essential oils and deeply relaxing Aroma Soul massages, designed to foster both physical and emotional balance.
The property has garnered prestigious accolades, including a Michelin Key from
the Michelin Guide and a ranking as the 3rd best hotel in Spain and Portugal by Condé Nast Traveller.
MENORCA ON HORSEBACK
The estate offers horseback rides through the vineyards. The sure-footed Menorcan purebred is a horse renowned for its agility and its integral role in the island’s vibrant local festivities, including the iconic revetlles of San Juan. Each ride is accompanied by a history guide, who provides traditional Menorcan saddles and insights into the history of the cellars. The experience culminates in a guided tasting of Torralbenc’s wines, perfectly paired with a selection of local Menorcan products. No prior riding experience is required, with the route typically lasting about three hours
For those looking for more expansive exploration, Torralbenc accesses the ancestral “Camí de Cavalls.” This historic 115-mile horseback trail, whose origins trace back to the 14th century, encircles the entire island. Guests traverse diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches and secluded coves, to dramatic ravines.
SUSTAINABILITY AT HEART
At its core, Torralbenc operates with a deep commitment to the island, dedication to sustainability, and responsible stewardship of its natural resources. This ethos is integrated into the design of the property, which blends into the natural environment, utilizing natural raw materials and thoughtful landscaping. Operationally, Torralbenc implements a comprehensive recycling plan and is proactively pursuing a zero-plastic policy. Furthermore, the property actively strives for self-sufficiency, leveraging a centralized system of renewable energy, primarily through solar panels, to supply a substantial portion of the energy required for hot water and air conditioning across the hotel.
The zero-km product policy championed in its acclaimed restaurant, which involves working exclusively with local suppliers, significantly reduces emissions while simultaneously fostering local job creation. This holistic approach elevates the property beyond a typical luxury hotel to a destination that offers purposeful, responsible indulgence. CONTACT INFO | PAGE 93
WARM HUES FOR
Rifé Studio at Sentta. Price upon request. 6. Longchamp Le Pliage original M Backpack in brick. $190. 7.
L.L. Bean’s women’s wax cotton 1924 Field Coat in canyon rust. $229.
The Reef Necklace by Chan Luu with red jasper, green amethyst, and gold-plated coral branch. $295. 3. Wedgwood Renaissance red Espresso Cup and Saucer with gold accents. $115. 4. Ruggable’s washable Eartha Terracotta Rug. $569 for 6-by9-foot. 5. Goa Armchair by Francesc
Oliver Bonas’s Loha Ottoman storage bench in coral velvet and rattan. $799.50. 8. Lambswool Throw in Knut orange repeated pattern. At Country Mouse. $106.25. 9. Tasty cola modern brown Sunglasses with UV protection. By Izipizi. $70.
MLS# 824790| $2,895,000 The Kerwar Team | Jason Kerwar, 914.469.9737 Diane Madden, 914.261.5909
CHILL FACTOR
Smart SEASONAL SHIFT LAYERS designed for the barn and beyond.
1. Equiline’s Egrige quilted tech fabric Jacket is the epitome of style and functionality. The stretchable, breathable, fabric and front-quilted panel adds a luxurious touch. In Artic ice. $255.
2. The wool blend Mock Neck (in black) by features a flattering cut and contemporary look. Wear on its own or as a layering piece. $99.80.
3. Free Ride’s brown Tweed Puffer Vest (by Ashlee Bond) boasts faux down fill, zippered front pockets, high collar, and classic fit. $99.
The modern Gotel tech Sweatshirt by Equiline (in amaranto) is designed for warmth and flexibility. The breathable fleece keeps riders cozy while a padded front panel adds insulation. $379.
5. Dada Sport’s mocha, Tempo Raincoat combines lightness and style with a removable hood and trapezoid cut, enhancing protection on rainy days. $400.
6. Pikeur’s sporty Quilted Jacket (in light moss) boasts heat retention and high breathability in a matte look and lightweight design. $119.95.
DISTINCTLY AMERICAN
Houses and Interiors by Hendricks Churchill
Known for its authentic and emotionally resonant work, Hendricks Churchill showcases a selection of recent projects—both country and city residences—that seamlessly blend vernacular architecture with American decorative traditions.
Founding partners Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill have collaborated for more than 20 years, designing new homes and interiors, and overseeing historic renovations. This debut book offers a comprehensive look at their portfolio—thoughtful, relevant interpretations of traditional design.
Each project is grounded in history and a deep connection to place, whether it’s a country house in Litchfield County, Connecticut, or an apartment in New York’s Greenwich Village.
Influences range from Shaker simplicity and Arts and Crafts integrity to Dutch agricultural structures and bohemian chic.
The interiors team carefully selects paint colors, furnishings, textiles, and finishes with an eye toward both history and contemporary culture—drawing on art, design, film, and literature. The result is a collection of richly layered, emotionally intelligent spaces that resist fleeting trends, celebrating the enduring beauty of rural America and its architectural heritage.
Hendricks Churchill is a multidisciplinary design firm representing the powerful alliance of architecture and interior design. It is on Elle Decor’s A-List and has received other industry recognitions.
Author Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill. Photographs by Chris Mottalini, Jeff Holt, Amanda Kirkpatrick, and Stephen Kent Johnson.
Published by Rizzoli New York.
THE CHIO
AACHEN
WORLD EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL
THE FAVORITE EVENT OF EQLIVING READERS.
The Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup at the CHIO Aachen 2025, Team USA, Kent Farrington, McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, Lillie Keenan, and Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland.
PHOTO CHIO AACHEN / DIANA WAHL
Boyd Exell, whose team of Celviro, Checkmate, Hero, and Mister Bonowinn, was the winner of 4-In-Hand Driving.
PHOTO CHIO AACHEN / LEONIE MINTEN
The CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival, held this summer, delivered a week of top-tier action across show jumping, dressage, eventing, driving, and vaulting. The event is a repeat winner as the show that Equestrian Living Gold List voters most want to attend. Robert Ridland, U.S. Jumping Team Chef d’Équipe, calls Aachen “the Mecca of show jumping.”
The highlight of the show jumping calendar came July 3, when the United States Show Jumping Team clinched the prestigious Mercedes Benz Nations Cup on Aachen’s famed “Holy Grass.” Team USA finished with just four faults. It marked the seventh U.S. victory in Aachen’s Nations Cup history. Lillie Keenan delivered two flawless rounds aboard Argan de Beliard and set the tone for her teammates. Kent Farrington and Toulayna jumped clear in round one before picking up four faults in round two. Laura Kraut with Bisquetta and McLain Ward with Imperial HBF also split faults—four in the first round, clear in the second. Ridland explained the team’s simple yet effective strategy: “Keep the jumps up and don’t fall at the water.”
In eventing, the Defender U.S. Eventing Team narrowly missed the top spot in the CCIO4* S UBS Cup. With four strong phases led by riders Boyd Martin, Phillip Dutton, and Will Coleman, the U.S. earned second place behind New Zealand.
The climax came in the Rolex Grand Prix on July 6, where Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs aboard Leone Jei tore through a jump-off field of 11 to claim his first Aachen Grand Prix title in 50.29 seconds – the fastest time and with zero penalties across both rounds. Fuchs is the first Swiss winner in Aachen since his uncle Markus in 2004, and joins an elite list with four Rolex Grand Slam Majors wins.
1 . Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup winning Team USA L-R Laura Kraut, Kent Farrington, McLain Ward, and Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland (not shown Lillie Keenan).
2. Karli, the CHIO Aachen mascot.
3. All roads lead to the Rolex Grand Slam.
4. Winners of the STAWAG-Prize McLain Ward and High Star Hero.
5. Boyd Martin and Commando.
6. Ambiance at Aachen.
7. Lillie Keenan & Argan De Beliard delivered 2 clear rounds to secure the winning spot on the Mercedes-Benz Nations’ Cup podium for Team USA.
8. Laura Kraut and Emeraldo.
9. The prize of a Family Tesch horse-drawn lap of honor, celebrating dressage winners Isabell Werth, Justin Verboomen, and Frederic Wandres.
10. Welcome to CHIO Aachen.
11. Team USA Eventer Will Coleman missed the individual UBS Cup podium by “this much.”
12. World #1 and member of the Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup winning Team USA, Kent Farrington and Toulayna.
DESIGN MASTER CLASS INSPIRATION FROM PREMIER DESIGNERS
DESIGN: IN-SITE DESIGN GROUP
BUILDERS: WINDHAM BUILDERS
INTERIORS: THE DECORATORS UNLIMITED
A MIDCENTURYMODERN VISION REALIZED
MARIGOLD ESTATE
TDesigned by ARCHITECT ANNIE CARRUTHERS of In-Site Design Group, Marigold Equestrian Estate blends midcentury-modern aesthetics with thoughtful equestrian functionality.
he estate, located in Wellington, Florida, reflects a design philosophy rooted in clarity, purpose, and sensitivity to the tropical environment.
Carruthers drew inspiration from the clean lines, flat roofs, and structural precision of midcentury modernism. She adapted those principles to ensure the estate’s layout emerged organically from the site, climate, and programmatic needs. Collaborating closely with the owner, she translated a personal vision of contemporary equestrian life into a residence and barn complex defined by openness, natural light, and a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
The design features expansive overhangs and clerestory windows that frame the landscape. Custom barn doors and paddock configurations support smooth circulation, while bold spatial
Continued on page 60
DESIGN MASTER CLASS INSPIRATION FROM PREMIER DESIGNERS
sequencing maintains harmony without rigid symmetry. The result is a layout that supports both family living and equine excellence with grace and clarity.
Inside, The Decorators Unlimited applied a tropical modern palette to Carruthers’ architectural framework. They used lowmaintenance materials, lush green hues, and framed views of landscaping to honor the climate while preserving the crisp, minimalist aesthetic.
The barn’s asymmetrical form responds to site constraints and paddock alignment, rather than formal repetition. A wide central aisle, lined with stalls, feels more like a curated pavilion than a traditional stable—combining operational efficiency with architectural refinement. Natural light enters
DESIGN
through transom windows and angled stall openings, softened by a brise-soleil system of horizontal and vertical fins. This system filters sunlight, delivering ambient illumination without glare or overheating—a favorite element of Carruthers’.
The second-story groom’s quarters nod to the legacy of architect Paul Rudolph, integrating modernist inspiration into a practical, elegant space.
The private residence complements the agricultural structures but stands on its own.
Courtyard atriums and strategically placed landscape views draw light and nature into the home. These garden-filled voids are visible from multiple rooms, blurring the boundary between indoors and outdoors. The result is a refined expression of tropical living and midcentury sensibility.
Marigold reflects Carruthers’ hallmark approach: design that is both elegant and intellectually grounded, purpose-built, and tailored to the needs of both horses and humans. The project sets a new benchmark in equestrian architecture—combining timeless design, environmental responsiveness, and collaborative vision.
BY SARAH LESSLER
MAJOR PHOTOS BY GEORGE KAMPER
DARRAGH
KENNY
A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT THE OLYMPIC SHOW JUMPER —HIS ROOTS, RISE TO THE TOP, AND HIS ONGOING MISSION TO DEVELOP THE NEXT GENERATION OF EQUESTRIAN STARS.
Irish Olympian Darragh Kenny has spent a lifetime in the saddle. Raised in Offaly, Ireland, by parents who bred and trained horses, Kenny was immersed in the sport from the start. His rise through the show jumping ranks can be attributed to grit, passion, and an unwavering love for the horse—all qualities that continue to shape his career today. From his early days riding ponies in Ireland to the Olympic arena, founder of Oakland Stables and a mentor to the next generation, Kenny reflects on the journey that brought him here—and where he hopes to go next.
EARLY CAREER AND RISE TO THE TOP
For Darragh Kenny, horses weren’t just a childhood hobby—they were a way of life. Exposed to his parents’ breeding and training operation at a young age,
it instilled in him what it meant to dedicate yourself entirely to the sport. “From the time I was born, I was surrounded by horses,” he says. “When we got up in the morning and looked out the window, there were horses in the field.”
Darragh’s early exposure to horses and natural talent led to a rapid rise through the ranks. He began riding ponies and entered his first grand prix at just 14. A pivotal moment came when he won a training bursary to spend two weeks at North Run Farm in the U.S. with Missy Clark and her husband, John Brennan, who is originally from Ireland. The opportunity came at the perfect moment—at age 20, Darragh realized he needed to leave Ireland to reach the top of the sport. That short visit turned into a lasting partnership. Within a year, he was competing in Nations Cups and World Cup Finals. “These
Darragh riding
Eddy Blue, owned by Carol Sollak, for the EQ Living photoshoot
are things that I had completely dreamed about doing at some point in my life, never mind at 20,” he recalls. Darragh credits much of his success to their mentorship: “Missy and John gave me huge opportunities. Without them and their support, I would not have gotten to this level.”
“Winning grand prix events is great, but winning with a team—like at the Nations Cups—there’s more emotion, more intensity.”
W
HIGH-STAKES COMPETITION AND OAKLAND STABLES
In 2009, during his first year with North Run, Darragh won the World Cup Qualifier CSI4* in Syracuse, N.Y.—a breakthrough that set the tone for his future success. “This was a turning point in my career,” he reflects. “It gave Missy and John the confidence in me to push me to do more, and it opened doors for me.”
By 2012, at just 24, Darragh launched Oakland Stables. While the vision was still evolving, his goals were clear: to compete at the highest level, mentor young riders, and build something enduring. Since then, he’s become a consistent force on the international stage, earning top placings and victories in some of the world’s most prestigious grand prix competitions, both individually and as a member of Team Ireland. His resume includes standout performances at the 2014 World Equestrian
Games, multiple Nations Cups, the Longines Global Champions Tour, the League of Nations, and major grand prix events across North America, including Spruce Meadows and the Winter Equestrian Festival.
At 27, he helped Team Ireland win the coveted Aga Khan Trophy at the Dublin Nations Cup—an especially personal milestone. “Every kid riding in Ireland, that’s their dream. So to be able to do that at quite a young age was a massive turning point,” notes Darragh. He went on to help Ireland qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and was named reserve rider for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Representing his country holds unmatched significance. “Winning grand prix events is great, but winning with a team—like at the Nations Cup or Major League—there’s more emotion, more intensity. I love that part of the sport.”
Today, Oakland Stables operates as one of the top training and sales programs in the U.S., with dual bases in Wellington, Florida, and at the historic Ox Ridge Hunt Club in Darien, Connecticut. Darragh had long admired the facility and the area, and when the chance to partner with Ox Ridge arose, it felt serendipitous. “Everything happens
Top: Oakland Stables, Darragh’s Wellington base. Above: Carmen Barrera, Darragh’s loyal assistant and manager, who has worked with him for 10 years.
for a reason, and that seems to be something that was supposed to happen—and I love being there,” Darragh admits.
The program has evolved into what Darragh calls a “brilliantly functioning machine,” with eight trainers and more than 30 staff supporting riders from beginner to international five-star level. “I always thought Ox Ridge deserved to be recognized as a high-sport, high-level facility, but I didn’t want to move away from what its grounding was and what started it,” he says.
Darragh values the bonds he forms with his horses, crediting several with shaping his career. Obelix, who carried him to his first world cup qualifier win, marked a turning point. VDL Cartello left
a lasting impression as his Olympic mount, while Eddy Blue, a current star, is, in Darragh’s words, “one of the most special horses I’ve ever ridden.” Their partnership, however, wasn’t instant. While Darragh clicks quickly with most horses, it took him nearly nine months to figure out Eddy. “To struggle at the start, and for it to be as hard as it was, was probably a great thing in the end,” Darragh reflects. “We learned a lot about each other very early on, and now it really pays off.”
BEHIND THE SCENES
Darragh is quick to credit the people behind his success—his team, his horses, and the entire operation at Oakland Stables. “I’m very lucky. Many of my
Relaxing at Oakland Stables.
“With leadership comes responsibility,” he adds. “I try to be the kind of boss I would want if I were working for someone else.”
Wpeople have been with me seven, eight, even twelve years. You can’t do this without that kind of loyalty and trust.” He emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people you and your horses can depend on, noting that trust and loyalty are essential to success in show jumping.
“With leadership comes responsibility,” he adds. “I try to be the kind of boss I would want if I were working for someone else. People need time off; they need respect. And when they care as much as I do—sometimes even more—you need to recognize and respect that, because without them, we wouldn’t be here.”
His passion for horses is ever-present, even in
Below: Eddy Blue winning the 2024 London International FEI World Cup Qualifier at ExCel Arena.
quieter moments. “Even during downtime, I still ride every day. It’s just less pressure and more about enjoying the horses,” he says. In the lead-up to major competitions, his focus shifts entirely to the horses competing, ensuring they feel their best.
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics marked a turning point in how he approaches his career. Team Ireland didn’t achieve the results they had hoped for, and the emotional weight of that moment hit hard. “Afterwards, I took time off to reflect. It made me realize the importance of balance—life can’t be 52 shows in 52 weeks,” Darragh says. “You have to have a life outside the ring.” Since then, he’s embraced a
PHOTO
RICHARD MALMGREN
Chic
is
from show jumping and is now a top breeding stallion.
Darragh aboard Chic Chic, owned by Vlock Show Stables, at the Dublin Horse Show in 2024.
Chic
retired
Aboard Me O Moy in Wellington 2024.
PHOTOS THIS PAGE: FOUR OAKS
slower pace when needed—for himself, the horses, and his staff. Outside the ring, Darragh enjoys traveling and unwinding with great food and a quieter mindset.
LOOKING AHEAD
After a successful European championship, finishing 7th overall, Darragh is now focused on the 2026 World Cup Finals in Fort Worth, Texas, and the 2026 World Cup Finals in Aachen. Darragh remains determined to continue his success with his current string of horses. He finds great pleasure in training up-and-coming grand prix athletes like Mimi Gochman and Elena Haas.* His ambitions extend beyond personal accolades. “If I could compete at the World Cup Finals alongside Elena and Mimi, that would be really meaningful.”
His long-term goals include the 2028 LA Olympics and helping Ireland continue its ascent on the global stage. Yet legacy, for Kenny, is about more than medals.
“Everybody deserves a chance. I was lucky that people helped me along the way, and now I want to help the next generation. That’s why I took over Ox Ridge—so I could build something that lasts and guides young riders through the sport the right way.”
As both a top-level rider and mentor, Darragh Kenny continues to lead by example—committed, grounded, and driven by a love for the sport that’s as strong now as it was when he was a child peering out the window at ponies in the field.
*See them in Equestrian Living, July 2025 and May 2024.
Darragh is very thankful to have great owners: Carol Sollak, HKC collection, Vlock Show Stables, and Andrzej Oplatek.
PHOTO RICHARD MALMGREN
LIST
DREAM ESCAPES
V CASTLE LESLIE
● GIRAFFE MANOR, KENYA
● ROYAL ASCOT, UK
WILD ROSE CATTLE DRIVE, UT
PATAGONIA
LITTLE PALM ISLAND, FL
PAWS UP, MT
The 19th-century CASTLE LESLIE is gracefully set on a 1,000-acre estate in County Monaghan, Ireland. For several years in a row, this property has been selected as a reader favorite. This historic gem, steeped in tradition, has been in the Leslie family’s care for over 350 years.
Now in its 12th year, the Equestrian Living Gold List is America’s leading survey of equestrians’ favorite brands, people, places, fashion, lifestyles, and more. YOU VOTED!
INNS AND HOTELS
V SALAMANDER, MIDDLEBURG
● RED FOX INN, MIDDLEBURG, VA
● EQUESTRIAN HOTEL, OCALA
WOODSTOCK INN, WOODSTOCK, VT
COLONY, PALM BEACH, FL
BRAZILIAN COURT, PALM BEACH, FL
THE WILLCOX, AIKEN, SC
SALAMANDER RESORT & SPA, a Forbes FiveStar destination, is nestled on 340 acres in Virginia’s picturesque horse and wine country. Known for its luxurious accommodations, world-class equestrian programs, and award-winning spa, it offers diverse activities including ziplining, cooking classes, and exquisite dining.
V Gold Winner
● Silver Winner
● Bronze Winner
THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE
YEAR-ROUND LIVING
Middleburg, the “Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital,” renowned for its equestrian heritage, historic charm, and scenic beauty, boasts boutique shops, exquisite dining, and plenty of arts and culture.
V MIDDLEBURG, VA
● RANCHO SANTA FE/SAN DIEGO, CA
● LEXINGTON, KY
WINTER LIVING
Wellington is a premier destination for horse sports, from polo and dressage to the highest levels of show jumping. It hosts the world-renowned Winter Equestrian Festival, attracting elite riders and horses from around the world.
V WELLINGTON, FL
● OCALA, FL
● AIKEN, SC
SUMMER LIVING
Woodstock enchants with covered bridges, quaint colonial architecture, miles of horse trails, and mountain vistas that shift with the seasons. Its walkable village green, artisan shops and restaurants, and classic New England style evoke a timeless elegance.
V WOODSTOCK, VT
● RANCHO SANTA FE/SAN DIEGO, CA
● LEXINGTON, KY
FAVORITE EQUESTRIAN REALTORS
FAVORITE ATHLETES
Bronze Winner
GEM TWIST was an iconic American Thoroughbred show jumper, celebrated for his incredible athleticism and versatility. He was famously ridden by Greg Best, earning two silver medals at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Later in his career, he also competed successfully with Leslie Howard and Laura Chapot (right), notably winning the “American Grand Prix Association Horse of the Year” title three times with different riders. He was named “World’s Best Horse” at the 1990 World Equestrian Games.
V GEM TWIST
● IDLE DICE
● HH AZUR
CARACOLE DE LA ROQUE
SAPPHIRE
AUTHENTIC
TOUCH OF CLASS JUMPER HORSE
McLain Ward is an American show jumping icon and five-time Olympic medalist. A two-time team gold medalist (2004, 2008), he’s known for his consistent top performances.
H McLAIN WARD
● LAURA KRAUT
● BEEZIE MADDEN
DRESSAGE
Steffen Peters, a German-born American dressage master, is a highly decorated Olympian. With multiple medals across six Olympic Games, he’s celebrated for his precise, elegant riding.
H STEFFEN PETERS
● LAURA GRAVES
● INGRID KLIMKE
JAMES PARKER
BEEZIE MADDEN is one of the most decorated American show jumpers in history. A four-time Olympian, she boasts two team gold medals (2004, 2008), a team silver (2016), and an individual bronze (2008). Madden was also the first woman to earn over $1 million in prize money and achieve a top-three world ranking. silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics, solidify his status as a global equestrian icon.
GREATEST EQUESTRIAN
H BEEZIE MADDEN
● McLAIN WARD
● BILL STEINKRAUS
JIM WOFFORD
RODNEY JENKINS
NICK SKELTON
IAN MILLAR
Mandy McCutcheon is a reining legend and NRHA Hall of Famer. She’s the first non-pro and first woman to become an NRHA Million Dollar Rider.
H BOYD MARTIN
● PHILLIP DUTTON
● WILL COLEMAN
H
● NIC ROLDAN
● ADOLFO CAMBIASO
H MANDY McCUTCHEON
● CADE McCUTCHEON
● TOM McCUTCHEON
ZANDERSON GEORGE
ANDREA
Argentine polo star Nacho Figueras is famously the face of Ralph Lauren’s Polo fragrances. He recently starred in the Netflix docuseries “Polo,” bringing the sport’s drama to a global audience.
IGNACIO “NACHO” FIGUERAS
Boyd Martin is an American eventer and multiple Olympian, and a Pan American Games double gold medalist. He recently became the FEI Eventing World Number 1.
TACK & BOOTS
ENGLISH SHOW WEAR
H ARIAT
● EQUILINE
● TAILORED SPORTSMAN
PIKEUR
DADA SPORT
CAVALLERIA TOSCANA
CHILDREN’S SHOW WEAR
H ARIAT
● KERRITS
● RJ CLASSICS
GOODE RIDER
CHARLES ANCONA
FREE RIDE
TALL BOOTS
H ARIAT
● PARLANTI
● VOGEL
DER DAU
TUCCI
DENIRO
PADDOCK BOOTS
H ARIAT
● BLUNDSTONE
● PARLANTI
VOGEL
DER DAU
FAIRFAX & FAVOR
SADDLE
H VOLTAIRE
● HERMÈS
● BUTET (TIE)
● CWD (TIE)
STUBBEN
ANTARES
WET WEATHER BOOTS
H DUBARRY
● HUNTER
● MUCK
L.L. BEAN
BARBOUR
LE CHAMEAU
WESTERN BOOTS
H ARIAT
● LUCCHESE
● FRYE
TECOVA
TONY LAMA (TIE)
JUSTIN (TIE)
HELMET
H CHARLES OWEN
● SAMSHIELD
● KASK
GPA
TROXEL
TRAUMA VOID
ONLINE TACK SHOP
H DOVER
● SMARTPAK
● MARY’S TACK & FEED
BIT OF BRITAIN
STATELINE (TIE)
CHAGRIN SADDLERY (TIE)
H Gold Winner
Silver Winner
Bronze Winner
FASHION
STREET WEAR
H ARIAT
● RALPH LAUREN
● CALLIDAE
HERMÈS
BARBOUR
FAIRFAX & FAVOR
PURSES & BAGS
H TUCKER TWEED
● HERMÈS
● LONGCHAMPS
COACH
RALPH LAUREN
GUCCI
H HERMÈS
JEWELRY
● DAVID YURMAN
● RALPH LAUREN
GUCCI
KELLY HERD
ATELIER CG
ARIAT leads equestrian fashion by fusing performance technology with contemporary design. Their footwear and apparel effortlessly transition from stables to street, offering modern riders and lifestyle enthusiasts durable, comfortable, and stylish options. Their late 2024 “Yellowstone” collaboration has strongly enhanced their crossover appeal within mainstream fashion.
DECOR
HOME
H RALPH LAUREN
● HERMÈS
● HORSE COUNTRY, VA
HORSE & HOUND
HART EQUESTRIAN
STYLISH EQUESTRIAN
RALPH LAUREN HOME is a consistent favorite among equestrians, celebrated for the timeless blend of classic elegance and country charm. The brand’s distinctive aesthetic resonates deeply with the equestrian lifestyle. Ralph Lauren himself began his iconic brand in 1967 by designing men’s ties, evolving it into a global lifestyle empire.
FAVORITE COMPETITIONS
JUMPING
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is the world’s largest hunter-jumper show. Spanning three months, it draws elite riders and horses globally for top-tier hunter, jumper, and equitation events.
H WEF, WELLINGTON
● DEVON COUNTRY FAIR
● UPPERVILLE
REINING
Las Vegas, Nevada, hosts The Run For A Million event that captivates top-tier riders. Offering reining’s richest prize at $1 million, it enjoys widespread and enduring popularity.
H RUN FOR A MILLION
● NRBC, TEXAS
● NRHA, OKLAHOMA
DRESSAGE
The Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, Florida, features international-level competition with over $650,000 in prize money and attracts the world’s top riders and horses.
H ADEQUAN GLOBAL DRESSAGE
● DRESSAGE AT DEVON
● US DRESSAGE FINAL
EVENTING
The annual Land Rover Kentucky 3-Day Event features thrilling equestrian competitions with challenging cross-country courses and an electrifying atmosphere.
H LAND ROVER KENTUCKY 3-DAY
● REBECCA FARM
● MARYLAND 5-STAR AT FAIR HILL
EVENT WISH LIST
Voters chose the equestrian event they would most like to attend.
H AACHEN, GERMANY
● THE OLYMPICS
● LAND ROVER KENTUCKY
WEF WELLINGTON
SAUT HERMÈS PARIS
DUBLIN HORSE SHOW
AACHEN, Germany, has been a legendary equestrian hub since 1898. Hosting the Concours Hippique International Officiel (CHIO), it annually draws elite riders and over 350,000 spectators for a top fivediscipline competition (See page 52)
FAVORITE DISCIPLINES
Equestrian Living readers enjoy a diverse mix of disciplines. While the majority ride hunter-jumper, a significant number favor dressage or trail riding. Western/reining is popular with a smaller group, with hunting and polo also representing our readers’ varied equestrian passions.
HUNTER JUMPER, 43%
DRESSAGE, 16%
TRAIL RIDING, 14%
WESTERN/REINING, 9%
HUNTING, 4%
POLO, 3%
CALIFORNIA & WEST
HANGOUTS
H MILLE FLEURS, RANCHO SANTA FE
● BUCKS, WOODSIDE
● TACK ROOM TAVERN, INDIO
VILLAGE PUB/BAKERY, WOODSIDE
JAKE’S, DEL MAR
ALICE’S RESTAURANT, WOODSIDE
HITCHING POST, BUELLTON
H MARY’S TACK
● CALABASAS SADDLERY
● CAROUSEL TACK SHOP
H GIANT STEPS, SONOMA
● B.O.K. WOODSIDE
● SHEA CENTER, ORANGE COUNTY ADAPTIVE RIDING
NATIONAL FAVORITES
NEW ENGLAND & EAST
HANGOUTS
H THE WHIP, COATESVILLE, PA
● RALPH LAUREN POLO BAR, NYC
● WOODSTOCK INN, WOODSTOCK, VT
GLADSTONE TAVERN, GLADSTONE, NJ
SKUNK HOLLOW TAVERN, HARTLAND, VT
HAYFIELDS, NORTH SALEM, NY
INN AT POUND RIDGE, POUND RIDGE, NY
H MANHATTAN SADDLERY, NYC
● MALVERN SADDLERY, MALVERN, PA
● BEVAL, CROSS RIVER & NORTH SALEM, NY TACK SHOP
H THORNCROFT, MALVERN, PA
● NYC GALLOP, NY
● PEGASUS, NORTH SALEM, NY ADAPTIVE RIDING
● EQUESTRIAN AID FOUNDATION
● EQUUS FOUNDATION
● FLEET OF ANGELS CHARITY
The Equestrian Aid Foundation provides emergency financial grants to members of the equestrian community facing catastrophic illness, injury, or unforeseen crisis. Since 1996, it has offered vital support to horse people in need across all disciplines nationwide.
DANNY & RON’S RESCUE, a consistent Gold List winner every year by a landslide and was founded by equestrians Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta in 2005, operates uniquely from their home. They have rescued over 14,500 dogs, providing personalized care and finding them loving homes. CHARITY
● SHOWGROUNDS LIVE
● EQUILAB
● EQ MASTERCLASS APP
SHOWGROUNDS LIVE is a comprehensive app providing real-time horse show information. It offers live results, orders of go, ring status, and online entry, streamlining the show experience for riders, trainers, and owners.
DOG RESCUE
FAVORITES
SOUTH
HANGOUTS
H RED FOX INN, MIDDLEBURG, VA
● RED HORSE TAVERN, MIDDLEBURG, VA
● DUDLEY’S ON SHORT, LEXINGTON, KY
THE WILLCOX, AIKEN, SC
CARSON’S ON MAIN, LEXINGTON, KY
BLUEGRASS TAVERN, LEXINGTON, KY
STABLE CAFE, ASHEVILLE, NC
FLORIDA
HANGOUTS
H KALUZ, WELLINGTON
● OLI’S FASHION CUISINE, WELLINGTON
● YELLOW PONY, WEC, OCALA
AVOCADO GRILL, WEST PALM BEACH
HORSE & HOUNDS, OCALA
STIRRUPS, WEC, OCALA
H Gold Winner
● Silver Winner
● Bronze Winner
MARK’S STEAKHOUSE, OCALA
H TACK ROOM, CAMDEN, SC
● MIDDLEBURG TACK EXCHANGE, VA
● HORSE COUNTRY, MIDDLEBURG, VA TACK SHOP
ADAPTIVE RIDING
H SPROUT THERAPEUTIC RIDING, ALDIE, VA
● LOUDOUN THERAPEUTIC RIDING
● HEROES ON HORSEBACK, BLUFFTON, SC
H TACKERIA, WELLINGTON
● TACK SHACK, OCALA
● TATO’S, WELLINGTON TACK SHOP
H VINCEREMOS, LOXAHATCHEE
● MTRA, OCALA
● EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPIES, COCONUT CREEK ADAPTIVE RIDING
TRAILER
● FOUR STAR
● KINGSTON
● ELITE CHARITY
FOUR STAR TRAILERS, established in 1984, are renowned for their custom-built, all-aluminum horse trailers. Prioritizing safety and durability, they’re favored for their innovative designs, superior craftsmanship, and ability to provide a safe, comfortable ride.
● RANGE ROVER
● CHEVY/GMC SUBURBAN
● TOYOTA, JEEP (TIE) SUV
RANGE ROVER blends sophisticated design with formidable off-road capability. Known for opulent interiors and cuttingedge technology, it offers a refined driving experience, embodying prestige and adventure across diverse terrains worldwide.
● BOYD MARTIN
● KARL COOK
● EQUESTRIAN VOGUE SOCIAL MEDIA
BOYD MARTIN actively engages on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, sharing insights into his training and competition life. Authentic and approachable, fans feel a direct connection to the Olympian.
Weatherly Stroh is a lifelong equestrian and acclaimed oil painter whose work captures the strength, elegance, and emotional depth of the horse world. Based in Wellington, Florida, she draws inspiration from the dynamic beauty of sport horses—dressage, show jumping, and polo—bringing each subject to life through her expressive brushwork and layered texture.
Known for her strong sense of composition and intuitive use of light and movement, Weatherly’s paintings have twice been featured on the cover of Wellington’s Winter Equestrian Festival program and are collected by equine and art enthusiasts around the world.
Raised on a Michigan farm and surrounded by animals, Weatherly was introduced to art at a young age. Her childhood farmhouse was filled with her mother’s pencil drawings of dogs and horses, nurturing her early artistic dreams. At just 11, she completed her first oil painting using a plein-air paint box passed down from her great-greatuncle, renowned American Impressionist Gari Melchers—an heirloom that continues to inspire her today.
In addition to her equine subjects, Weatherly is known for her evocative landscapes and paintings inspired by her travels. International retreats, which she co-leads in Italy, Morocco, and Croatia, enrich her creative process by encouraging others to reconnect with their artistic voice. When not in her Wellington studio, Stroh can often be found in the show ring with her Amateur Owner hunter, Sir Henry.
INTERVIEW BY SARAH LESSLER
ARTIST
WEATHERLY STROH
REIMAGINES EQUESTRIAN ELEGANCE THROUGH BOLD STROKES AND A CONTEMPORARY EYE.
Looking Back
Eye Spy
EQ: Your work is so deeply rooted in animals and the equestrian lifestyle. How did your journey as both an artist and horsewoman begin?
WS: I grew up on a horse farm in Michigan, north of Detroit, where both of my parents rode horses. I began riding and showing hunters at an early age and continued through high school. I was surrounded by art from a young age—my mom is an artist who worked in pencil when I was a child and now creates bronze sculptures and stone carvings. Our house was filled with her drawings and artwork, and I was fortunate to attend a high school with a strong visual and performing arts program that exposed me to a variety of mediums.
EQ: Art and animals have always been in your life, and you’ve said your uncle has been of significant influence in your work. Can you share more about that artistic lineage and how it shaped your career?
WS: I paint what I know and love, which are animals and nature. My great-great-uncle was an American Impressionist painter whose works can be found around the world. I remember going to pony finals one year in Culpeper, Virginia, and visiting my great-great-uncle’s home and studio, Belmont, which is now a museum. I was 8 at the time and recall being in awe of his work and his studio. I still love to go back and visit when I can.
EQ: Can you tell us how your career as a painter began and how it has grown into what it is today?
WS: I took an amazing painting class in high school and had a bit of a foundation early on. Throughout my 20s and early 30s, I occasionally took painting workshops, but I also had other interests. It wasn’t until 2011, when I went through a major personal transition, that I decided to commit to painting full-time. I started painting dog portraits, which led to horse portraits (I also started riding and showing again at this time). Now, my work has evolved to be primarily my own work, with only a limited number of commissions each year.
EQ: Can you describe your artistic process? How do you choose your subjects, and what inspires you most when beginning a new piece?
WS: I hold an art degree from the University of Colorado, with an emphasis in photography. As a result, I am always looking
for unique compositions and light. I’m continuously trying to capture the essence of an animal or place and connect the viewer to my subject.
EQ: How would you describe your style, and has it evolved over time?
WS: It has evolved from more realistic to a looser, more expressive style.
EQ: Many of your paintings seem to capture a deep emotional connection with the animals—how do you convey that soulfulness through oil on canvas?
WS: I’m always thinking about the emotional connection I have with animals, and when I paint, I try to be intentional about the emotion I am trying to convey, whether it’s strength, power, grace, serenity, trust, or something else. I think about how I want to feel when I look at one of my paintings while I am painting, and hope that that comes through in the finished piece.
EQ: Can you tell us about your life with horses as someone with a deep equestrian background? How does your relationship with horses influence your artwork?
WS: Growing up around horses, they are just an integral part of my life. I have taken breaks during my life, but they always seem to draw me back. I love the personal challenge of showing and pushing myself to be better, but, more importantly, I love the relationship that I have with my horse and our connection. There are so many life lessons we learn from horses, and they reflect so much in ourselves. I think it has been a natural evolution to focus so much of my work on them, and I hope to capture that bond that we all feel with the animals in my paintings.
EQ: What does a typical day in your studio look like, and how do you balance commissioned work with personal creative projects?
WS: I’m usually at my studio around 8 a.m. and do my best work in the morning. I will spend the morning painting and usually leave afternoons for business and computer work. Recently, I have been more focused on my own creative projects, preparing some work for a new gallery I am working with. However, I do set aside chunks of time for commissions, as I need to.
Continued on page 92
Blue Reaching
I’m always thinking about the emotional connection I have with animals, and when I paint, I try to be intentional about the emotion I am trying to convey. “ “
Untitled
Lateral
Emerging
Gathered
Turning Heads
Untitled
I am always inspired by different places; whether it’s the light, the way of life, architecture, or the colors of a place. “ “
EQ: How do you hope your art and collections impact people?
WS: I hope my work inspires people, and by doing what I love, I hope it encourages people to do the same.
EQ: Are there any upcoming exhibitions, gallery shows, or new projects that you’re especially excited about?
WS: I am excited to be working with the Crossgate Gallery in Lexington, Kentucky. They will be featuring some of my work at their annual Sporting Horse Auction in conjunction with the Keeneland sales in the fall. I will also host a series of Open Studios this winter at my studio in Wellington, Florida, and I will have a presence at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in 2026, so I am working on a range of new pieces for all these events.
EQ: What advice would you give to young artists—or equestrians—looking to pursue a creative life that blends passion and profession?
WS: Paint a lot. Just like any other worthwhile pursuit, whether it’s playing a sport or musical instrument, it takes a lot of practice, experimentation, and time. Hard work goes much farther than just talent. I also think it’s helpful, and I wish more art schools would offer business classes, but it’s important to understand how to run a business and how to make a career in art feasible.
EQ: You’ve noted that travel is your second passion. How essential is it to fuel your creative inspiration?
WS: I have been fortunate to travel extensively and have loved doing so. I am always inspired by different places; whether it’s the light, the way of life, architecture, or the colors of a place. Travel and creativity have also inspired my second business, which involves co-hosting international retreats, which are really fun. They are a blend of culture, creativity, and connection with amazing people in amazing places.
Adequan Global Dressage gdf.coth.coom CHIO Aachen chioaachen.de/en Land Rover Kentucky 3-Day kentuckythreedayevent.com
Run for a Million therunforamillion.com
Winter Equestrian Festival wellingtoninternational.com
Favorite Hangouts
Kaluz
kaluzrestaurant.com
Milles Fleurs millefleurs.com
Red Fox Inn redfox.com
The Whip thewhip.com
Favorite Charity/ Rescues/Adaptive Riding
Danny and Ron’s Rescue
dannyronsrescue.org
Thorncroft Equestrian Center thorncroft.org Sprout Center sproutcenter.org Vinceremos vinceremos.org
Favorite App Showgrounds Live app.showgroundslive.com
Favorite Vehicles/ Trailer
Four Star 4startrailers.com
Range Rover rangerover.com
Favorite Social Media
Boyd Martin Instagram instagram.com/ boydmartineventing
GALLERY
Page 86
Weatherly Stroh weatherlystroh.com
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GEORGE KAMPER
HITS HUDSON VALLEY has become one of the most celebrated and widely attended horse show facilities in the country. Now with an expanded schedule, exhibitors can enjoy the premier HITS experience at the world-class venue in Saugerties, New York, through mid-October! With an action-packed season, including 12 weeks of elite hunter/jumper competition and five weekends of thrilling USEF dressage, the excitement keeps on going well into fall. Highlights include five weeks of international FEI show jumping, as well as two designated World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) weeks, the all-new Festival of the Horse™, the prestigious Great American Insurance Group/United States Dressage Federation Region 8 Dressage Championships in September, and The League National Finals, presented by Marshall & Sterling Insurance.
HITS HUDSON VALLEY FALL SHOW SCHEDULE
HITS HUDSON VALLEY VII HITS HUDSON VALLEY VIII, CHAMPIONSHIP
August 27-31 - FEI CSI2*
September 3-7 - WCHR, FEI CSI3* THE LEAGUE NATIONAL FINALS presented by Marshall & Sterling Insurance
September 10-14
GAIG/USDF REGION 8 DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS
September 18-21
FALL FESTIVAL I FALL FESTIVAL II
October 1-5
October 8-12
THIS IS MORE THAN A HORSE SHOW, THIS IS HITS!
Schuyler Riley is an international show jumper. Competing globally each year at the world’s most prestigious venues, she is one of the most successful show jumpers in U.S. history. Schuyler began riding at the age of 7 and became a student of Paul Valliere’s during her junior years. At 19, she was the first female winner of the Rolex/USET Show Jumping Talent Derby. She has competed on numerous Nations Cup Teams, three World Cup Finals, and many international competitions from Calgary to Dubai.
IMEET SIERRA
This Labrador has a useful side gig: FINDING THINGS.
BY SCHUYLER RILEY
grew up in Vermont riding at the Green Mountain Horse Association, and we had standard poodles. My mom wanted dogs that didn’t shed. They were fun dogs, but when I got old enough to get my own dog, I always wanted a dog that would fetch, because the poodles wouldn’t play fetch with me.
My very first dog, right out of college, was a Labrador retriever. Sierra is now my third lab, and they’ve all been amazing dogs. I named her that because she was born in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Reno, Nevada. She came from the same breeder as my last lab, Dallas, and actually looks quite similar.
Sierra is 3 years old, and I got her at 8 weeks. I knew that I wanted a puppy from the litter that had just been born. There were 10 puppies in the litter, and, so far, all of my dogs have been female, so I instinctively thought, I really do like having a female dog. I went to pick out the puppy, and I had no idea how many out of the 10 were male or female, but there turned out to be only two females, a black one and a yellow one. Sierra’s yellow, and she was the first one I picked up. It was so cute; while I had her in my lap, I tried to pick up the black female, and she would cry. And when I put the black female back, she’d stop crying. Each time I would try to pick up the black female, she’d cry again. So, I felt like Sierra picked me.
Her temperament is amazing. Labradors absolutely love to please. From the time that I got her, I started scent work with her because dogs wear themselves out faster if you work their brain in addition to their body. She’s quite good at scent work. I trained her to find things with her nose, so, I can load her to the scent of anything—car keys, golf balls, horseshoes, dollar bills—and you can ask her to find it.
The first year I had her at the Hamptons, I lost my truck keys in a field. I had a separate set of car keys for a different vehicle, and I loaded her and then sent her out, and she found the truck keys for me.
We were talking about it yesterday when we were out golfing. Sierra goes golfing with me, too. So, of course, I trained her to find golf balls. A friend of mine lost $20 on the golf course, and I happened to have another $20 bill in my bag. I loaded Sierra to that scent, and then she went and found my friend’s $20!
So, she’s actually quite useful. At the horse shows, she walks all the courses with me, and she sits on the golf cart. She’s like my assistant at the horse shows. She’s a great dog.
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JOIN THE INNER CIRCLE TO EARN YOUR STARS!
Are you a student equestrian athlete in grades 5 through 12? Join the USEF Interscholastic Athlete Program to be recognized for your equestrian activities! Simply upload your report card or transcript along with proof of three competitions or a 100 riding hour log for each year to receive a letter of recognition for your school and one of our exciting new prizes. Earn a new prize for each year you complete!
