The Plaid Horse May/June 2023 - The Young Horse Issue

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THERE ARE PIECES THAT FURNISH A BARN THEN THERE ARE PIECES THAT DEFINE IT.

Hailey Hak

Best of luck to Violet Tatum at e Devon Horse Show

PHOTOS: SARA SHIER PHOTOGRAPHY

YOU BELONG HERE

Whether you’re trotting into the show ring, moving to a new barn, or taking your first lesson, remember this—you belong. Regardless of your discipline, body shape, show record, or breech size, Kerrits is commited to helping you feel as good on the outside as horses make you feel on the inside.

Shop your local Kerrits retailer or online at kerrits.com.

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The Plaid Horse has been published since 2003. This is Piper Klemm’s 82nd issue as Publisher since 2014.

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The Young Horse Issue

“What made connecting with Laurie successful is I have the backing and belief of her. ... It just makes me not have to worry about anything and focus on the partnership with the horse.”

Lainie Wimberly and Laurie Stevens take the hunter ring by storm

PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

Lexington Premiere at the Virginia Horse Center

Championship Spectating Is an Essential Part of (Every) Sport

CAN YOU IMAGINE being a football player and not watching the Super Bowl? Unfortunately in our sport, I can absolutely imagine the equivalents. Because I see them all the time.

I see empty seats galore at all four Big Equitation nals. All located in populous places that could (and should) be a great barn outing day trip for any group wanting to learn within a several hour radius.

I see empty seats when the best of the best hunter riders give their all to win at Devon.

I see people at home not even bothering to turn on the livestream or host an event or party with their friends. I see people who will “do anything” to get an edge in this sport literally skip something as simple as watching.

And, embarrassingly, I saw a lot of empty seats at the FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha.

I believe that the 2023 FEI World Cup Jumping Finals in Omaha was one of the greatest competitions I have ever watched. It was a thrilling international rivalry full of long-term partnerships, people who had long-term faith in their people, and people who had faith in horses that most other people would have counted out.

And as a rider, as an athlete, and as someone who loves challenges, I felt exhilarated and empowered by watching the greats. The bond between horse and rider was so apparent, it made for both exciting and also relatable competition. Watching the precisions and errors, it was obvious to me watching how much all riders do have in common, and the bond between being great and being a fan in sport is something special that we o en forget.

Watching the World Cup, I got to see top athletes, who I respect and admire, having to manage things on course and be asked all of the same questions that are asked of me. Of course, it’s at a much di erent level with much bigger consequences. But riding straight, riding your track, collection, and lengthening— fundamental rideability—was the task at hand at the World Cup, which is the exact same task at hand in most of our riding lessons.

What we have in common is that we’re all working for better rideability and better reaction time. All of us, in all disciplines,

McLain Ward and Hunter Holloway at the World Cup in April

even if our cues are di erent, are all striving for harmony with our horses. Every silo of our sport has that in common.

I watched McLain Ward go in when the rider before him fell, and noted how composed and organized he kept his mental game. This was a situation that I related to at my most recent horse show. Spoiler alert: I was not as composed and organized as McLain, but I’m going to keep working on handling like he does.

I watched Aaron Vale walk in and test his rideability and aids with bending and counter-bending. I related to picking up my canter and testing to make sure I can step up and steady in the rst few canter strides before I settle into my rhythm to jump one. I can strive for the rideability he has to jump those jumps.

I watched the best in the world come back with immense pressure. I watched Hunter Holloway come back night a er night and trust her practice, her partnership, and her plan—and execute awlessly. I can strive to channel that when I come back for the second round of the classic, or day two of the horse show. Pressure is real for all of us, and

coming back on top is such a challenge.

Realistically, I will never ride anywhere near this level. It’s easy to fall into the “why bother” trap. The fact that I don’t ride great at 34 years old statistically means I’ll never ride great. I’m pretty convinced I’m an outlier and will dream big forever. But by the numbers, if I’m not brave to the big sticks now, I won’t ever be.

My dreams are to make this sport better and I think I’m on track for that. My riding dreams are complicated because I’m not all in. I put work rst.

So why do I relish sitting in these stands and jump up and down screaming when they do it right? Because we all have so much in common.

I watch the tests in this course and the riders putting their all into their rounds, and I practice all those same tests and I too put myself all in. I want to win.

Because in all breeds and disciplines we have a shared goal of rideability and harmony. For a horse to walk in and execute what we need in a split second.

I practice rideability in lessons and use that skill in the show ring. So do these people. And we struggle with the

same rideability. Yes, their jumps are two of mine on top of each other and their reaction time has to be approximately 10,000 faster than mine, but the concepts are the same.

On a fundamental level, we’re evaluated on lengthening and shortening, riding the track, managing straightness, and handling our mind, emotions, and work ethic. And just like the World Cup horses, all horses bene t from the adjustability exercises at whatever height and striding they can do well. All our lessons incorporate the same principles.

So, the next time I’m taking a lesson and I jump, turn, jump, turn, I’m going to consider where my body is. I’m going to consider where Reuben’s body is. And then I’m going to work on the same things as my idols.

Piper Klemm, Ph.D. TPH PUBLISHER Follow me on Instagram at @piperklemm

What we have in common is that we’re all working for better rideability and better reaction time. All of us, in all disciplines, even if our cues are different, are all striving for harmony with our horses.

MANY RIDERS. MANY HORSES. MANY TITLES. ONE FUEL.

Samantha Schaefer riding In the Know at World Equestrian Center - Ocala.

PASO ROBLES HORSE PARK

AS A RIDER, it is uncommon to find a singular home base for horse showing where you can begin your career at a schooling series, and years later, come back to compete in a Grand Prix or an International Hunter Derby. Paso Robles Horse Park is changing that notion.

The Park, located in Paso Robles, CA, was a vision brought on by Linda Starkman, a California native who has spent time in many facets of the equine industry, from breeding, to showing, to being a Board Member of the U.C. Davis Center for Equine Health. Her goal was to bring a quality show experience to the California Central Coast. In 2015, her vision became a reality.

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU

‘‘If It’s Not Fun, We’re Not Doing It’’

Enjoying the Paso Park fun

PHOTOS, FROM LEFT: ELIZABETH HAY PHOTOGRAPHY; GRAND PIX PHOTOGRAPHY

The Paso Park is home to four nationally-rated shows, four regionallyrated shows, and four schooling shows.

“When you look at our schooling shows and regional shows, we work really hard to keep the pricing affordable,” Amanda Diefenderfer, Park Director and Show Manager, tells The Plaid Horse. “Whether for the rider who is new, or the horse that is young, our goal is to keep the horse show approachable.”

The rated shows offer the usual 2’ divisions as well as Grand Prix and hunter derbies.

DERBY FRIDAY

As a show that strives to be unique and offer options for everybody to develop in the sport, Paso Robles offers a “Pick Your Line Hunter Derby” class at regionally-rated shows, where riders

who make the second round get to design their own handy course.

“The goal of the class is to let the riders show off how well they know their horse,” says Diefenderfer. “Before the second round, riders submit their course so the judge may follow along. We call it their ticket to ride!”

In addition to this derby, Paso Robles has a derby for almost every level of rider, running on Fridays, so they are able to get the experience of the nationally-rated shows.

“How scary would it be if your first derby is a National Hunter Derby?” says Diefenderfer with a chuckle. “We really believe in the development from the first stages on up.”

In addition to the hunter options at the horse show, there are also several jumper divisions for those looking to develop in that ring.

“We try very hard to give equal attention to the hunter and jumper rings,” says Diefenderfer, who adds that both rings are available for viewing on live stream throughout the horse show.

HORSES FIRST

In addition to the many options for riders, Paso Robles is making improvements to the grounds for the horses.

Adding on to the 224 existing permanent stalls, there are 256 new stalls being added to the property, all 12’ x 12’ in size.

“The horses spend so much time in their stalls. They’re big, they work hard,” says Diefenderfer. “We believe they deserve to be comfortable when they’re done.”

Construction on the new stalls will wrap up this summer.

“Whether for the rider who is new, or the horse that is young, our goal is to keep the horse show approachable.”

—AMANDA DIEFENDERFER, PASO ROBLES PARK DIRECTOR AND SHOW MANAGER

USHJA National Hunter Derby

The facility as a whole is designed with the customer in mind. Each barn has a minimum of a 20’ wide aisle and the layout is constructed to simplify driving a trailer through the Park.

“If you’ve ever had to back up a trailer in front of people, you’ll understand how important that is,” says Diefenderfer. “We try to remember the customers when we make every decision.”

Other amenities include 52 RV spots, a lovely grazing patch for the horses to enjoy, and a trail around the perimeter of the property. The town of Paso Robles is in wine country and is home to many fantastic restaurants and vineyards, making the Paso Park a “showcation.”

GIVING BACK

The Park is also home to the Paso Robles Horse Park Foundation, a non-

profit organization that is dedicated to creating opportunity in the community to support the relevance of the horse in today’s world and their unique ability to enhance education, health, and quality of life, particularly for the those with disabilities and those who are underprivileged.

While the schooling shows are a main part of the non-profit, the Park Foundation also works with organizations such as Jack’s Helping Hands and other organizations that are involved with horses whose goals are to serve a higher purpose.

IF IT’S NOT FUN…

As Park Director, Diefenderfer joined the team six months prior to the Paso Park opening and has been on the ground since day one. She started by focusing on the strategic development

of the property, working on the marketing and branding for the facility.

After some time, Starkman wanted to move all operations in house and from then on, Diefenderfer became the manager for all shows on the property.

“I never imagined being in show management,” says Diefenderfer. “Your career evolves in unique ways and takes you on paths you didn’t imagine. Suddenly, you find yourself exactly where you belong.”

The team at Paso Robles Horse Park is driven towards developing professional and positive show experiences for all.

Starkman once said to her team, “If it’s not fun, we’re not doing it,” which are now the words the team lives by on a daily basis.

For more information on Paso Robles Horse Park, visit pasorobleshorsepark.com.

PHOTOS: ALDEN CORRIGAN MEDIA (CENTER); GRAND PIX PHOTOGRAPHY

FAR LEFT: National Series Grand Prix NEAR LEFT: USHJA National Hunter Derby

Paso Park’s supportive environment

WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE. You’re last to go in the order over fences before the hack. As you walk out of the ring, your competition is already on their way back in, showing off at the trot.

Even though you know the class won’t start without you, the panic sets in as you scramble to get off your horse, undo your girth, take off your martingale, and then—hopefully—quickly find your way to the mounting block to get back on and hurry into the hack.

Thanks to Kimberly “Kimba” Maloomian, this is a problem of the past.

In the fall of 2019, Maloomian set out to solve the modern rider’s annoying problems—like that sprint to get the martingale off before the hack.

A SIMPLE FIX

Maloomian, a fourth-generation horsewoman on both sides of her family, had the idea of creating a martingale with a simple clip so riders can stay in the tack for the transition to any flat phase.

She shared her idea with another industry professional who connected her to a manufacturer.

From there, the Easy-Off Martingale was created.

Maloomian created the martingales with the old school, hunter look in mind. Made from dark colored leather, you would never know they are a redesign of what was the modern day martingale.

“I am happy to create something for even just one tack shop to carry.”

—KIMBA MALOOMIAN, DZIASPORT OWNER & FOUNDER

SPOTLIGHT

She brought her creation to the Wellington Equestrian Festival (WEF) to showcase the product and see if there was a need in the industry.

People loved it, but there was one small problem.

“Trainers pointed out to me that although they loved the concept, the classic, leather hunter girth doesn’t have a d-ring for the clip and therefore they wouldn’t be able to use my product,” Maloomian tells The Plaid Horse.

Instead of calling it quits, Maloomian went back to the drawing board and created a hunter girth, this time with a d-ring.

In Spring 2020, her first shipment went to the Horseman’s Exchange in Littleton, MA. With her items on shelves at the popular local tack store, she was able to gain business insights and receive advice from staff on how to continue growing.

From there, Maloomian went on to create a stirrup leather with a wider width to prevent leg and boot rubs. In May 2023, she will be releasing a running martingale and a monoflap girth for eventers and dressage riders.

COLLABORATION AND CUSTOMIZATION

Mentorship and connecting with other professionals in the industry have been key to building Dziasport Equine.

Maloomian admits that the hardest part of the business for her is being a saleswoman, so she looks to friends like Annie Connolly of ACE Equestrian for advice.

“The best advice she gave me was to keep emailing and reaching out to the

tack shops,” says Maloomian. “You have to have people you can bounce your ideas off of that you can trust.”

Maloomian is invested in listening to the woes of riders, trainers, and tack shops when it comes to what can be improved in the tack room. In fact, even if just one tack shop or trainer says they would like something tailored to their needs, she’s more than happy to fulfill their request.

“I said to the tack shops: if there is an item that you can’t find, or can’t find the quality that you are looking for, let me know,” says Maloomian. “I am happy to create something for even just one tack shop to carry.”

While connecting with the people is important to her, Maloomian spends the majority of her time focusing on the tack being pleasing to the horse. From there, ideas come out of things that don’t exist.

“I really enjoy the thrill of creating something new and exciting,” she says.

In fact, she has two brand new

products on the way that have never been seen before.

“People have said to me, ‘Can you make something like this because it doesn’t exist and there’s a need for it,’” she adds. (More to come on this secret new item soon!)

A BROAD CUSTOMER BASE

While riders like Jennifer Ritucci, Dorothy Douglas, Hillary Johnson, and Kristen Chance use her products, Maloomian has been spending time reaching out to farriers and equine body workers among others to explore what else may be needed in the market.

“I really enjoy hearing from people about how I can fix a piece of equipment and make it more functional in the best interest of the horse or rider.” says Maloomian.

You can find Dziasport products at several brick and mortar stores as well as trailers at horse shows such as Quail Hollow Tack, Blueberry Hill, Exquisite Equestrian, and Mary’s Tack and Feed or order directly online at dziasport.com.

“I really enjoy hearing from people about how I can fix a piece of equipment and make it more functional in the best interest of the horse or rider.”

—KIMBA MALOOMIAN, DZIASPORT OWNER & FOUNDER

The Art of Horsemanship

In Loving Memory LI SA COWAN

On April 13, our community lost an incredible horsewoman. Lisa Cowan gave so much to so many in this group, and to the equestrian community at large. She loved many, many people she met here. The horse world was a better place with her in it, and here at The Plaid Horse, we want to dedicate these pages to her memory, and to an incredible life well lived.

Lisa was an editor for The New York Times, and her family asks that, in lieu of flowers, people consider donating to a memorial journalism scholarship in her name. Please email wsuf.gift.accounting@wsu.edu to contribute.

Lisa Cowan and I became friends in May 2008. My 8-year-old TB died unexpectedly, she had just moved her horse to the boarding stable I was at; we had not had a chance to meet yet.

A day after my horse passed, she left me a message on my phone, introducing herself, offering condolences, shared

she went through a similar situation a year or so earlier and then offered to share her 5-year-old TB with me. Never met me, never seen me ride … Lisa was so authentic, so in touch with people … not to mention the best horse person I know. I returned her call and we were instantly fast friends. We had so many fun

horse times together, dressing up for parties, laughing, and just chatting. I will miss you every day Lisa, as will the world, you were such a bright light. We should all follow in your steps and live life to the fullest, enjoy it all and everyone. Love and light to you my friend. I miss you already.

—ANNE ROGNESS

She was everything good in the world of horses, and an inspiration to so very many—myself among them.

—LETTIE TEAGUE

Her love for hunting, sidesaddle, and horses was not marked by any measure. She loved the sport, the traditions, and the animals as they were, and always worked to do right by them and have fun along the way. She was full of energy and had a zest for life and adventure. She was smart, ambitious, kind, and generous. She was a genuine person with sharp wit and a fantastic sense of humor that was matched with just the right amount of snark to balance it all out. She took every opportunity to ride and travel to hunt that she could. She truly took her own life by the reins and rode it like she stole it.

I met her in person for the first time at the first Cheshire Vixen Meet three years ago after meeting her online as one of my clients through my business, which she regularly

supported. She became a client turned friend. She offered advice and ideas, often recommending me to friends and helped me grow my business. We kept in touch regularly, chatting about horses, hunting, fashion, and every day ongoings. While we only saw each other a few times a year, every time we caught up, it was as if no time at all had passed.  A few weeks ago, Lisa came down to the Cheshire Vixen Meet again. We caught up in the morning, waved as we passed each other out hunting, but she had headed home by the time the hounds had come in. While that is the final time I said hello and goodbye to Lisa, I am feeling incredibly grateful to have such and inspiring woman in my life.

—RACHEL WILKOSKI

Lisa and I texted and chatted for quite some time before we ever met in person. She always felt like a kindred spirit, and meeting “IRL” confirmed that feeling. Lisa was one of those people who makes you feel comfortable from the moment you meet them. We went to a party together in New York where she knew a lot more people than I did. She introduced me to everyone. Not in the way that some people do where they drop you off in a conversation with strangers and continue working the room. Lisa hung out with me all night and we had a blast together. So many laughs. To know Lisa was to love her, and I couldn’t wait for her to show me how to ride side saddle this summer. Generous, welcoming, and hilarious, Lisa was everything that’s right in the horse world. I only wish I’d met her sooner.

—RENNIE DYBALL

Lisa was so vibrant and full of joy and life. I got to know her through the foxhunting world, and she was so welcoming and friendly, always asking after my young horse when we saw each other. Not only was Lisa a beautiful and skilled rider,

but she was equally accomplished in her career as an editor for The New York Times. I have wonderful memories of drinking champagne, bidding on silent auction items, and dancing with Lisa at the Goldens Bridge Hounds hunt ball. I

loved seeing all her incredible pictures on Facebook, hunting across open country with a big smile, or sitting sidesaddle in elegant attire, looking like a painting. I would often comment that I wanted to be Lisa Cowan when I grow up. I

admire how she seized any opportunity to follow her dreams. Her vivacious spirit, open heart, and can-do attitude will continue to inspire me to reach for mine. Kick on, Lisa—you are so loved.

—ALEXANDRA PISTEY

LISA WAS ONE OF THE KINDEST AND MOST INCLUSIVE PEOPLE

I’VE KNOWN. SHE AND I MET THROUGH FOX HUNTING AND SHE WAS TRULY ONE OF A KIND.

—KIRBY WYCOFF

READ MORE ON…

Articles updated daily!

T he P laid H

TAMIE SMITH AND MAI BAUM led heading into the final day of competition at the 2023 Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event Presented by MARS Equestrian™. With the pressure on, the pair maintained their composure and jumped a clear round to earn the win in impressive fashion. Smith and Mai Baum ended a 15-year drought by being the first U.S. combination to win at Kentucky since 2008. In addition to the overall title, the duo won the Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian™ and the Roger Haller Trophy as the top U.S. combination.

THE IDLEWOOD EQUESTRIAN FOUNDATION (IEF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is on a mission to make the equestrian world more accessible and equitable for all. Founded on the principle of bridging the fiscal gap between quality training and household income, the foundation provides low-cost showing and educational opportunities to underfunded equestrians. By creating a more inclusive horse world, IEF aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of both humans and horses.

Following two years off from injury, GLORIEUS made a glorious return to the winner’s circle on Friday, April 14, at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Katy, TX. With COURTNEY LENKART in the irons, the gelding earned the victory in the $30,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, sponsored by Augusta Pines Farm.

ALCOHOL AND AMATEURS

ESSAY BY GAIL REZENDES-DELL: I wonder why we amateur equestrians so readily accept the marrying of alcohol consumption to our athletic riding pursuits. A quick online shopping search results in plenty of horse, wine, and beer accessories. ... Online forums, Instagram posts, TikToks and Facebook group posters celebrate the relationship between amateurs and their wine. One local horse show association’s awards banquet was sponsored by a popular vodka brand. Equestrian themed drink recipes are posted. Even though riding and showing are hobbies for amateurs, most of us take it seriously and devote the majority of our free time and finances to this passion.

PHOTO: AVERY FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

I’m pretty numb. It is almost like an out of body experience. This sport as everybody knows, you take a beating. The resilient ones just keep coming back for more and you hope that one day it pays off, and today it did. I’m honored and I’m elated and I’m excited. And I’m a bit speechless honestly.”

—TAMIE SMITH

EQUESTRIAN CENTER

JOIN US AT THE BARN!

• Founded in 1869, Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) is a boarding and day school for girls in Grades 7-12 and Postgraduate (PG).

• Located in historic Greenfield, Massachusetts, SBS has been a member of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) since its official inception in 2002.

• T he School boasts five National Titles featuring Middle School and Upper School IEA teams that compete within the largest zone in the country.

SCHEDULE AN IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL VISIT AT SBSCHOOL.ORG/ VISIT

• SBS is the first and only secondary school equestrian facility in the United States to achieve prestigious certification as a British Horse Society-approved Livery Yard, Riding School, and Facility and offers the esteemed British Horse Society (BHS) Certification Program which is recognized in 35 countries worldwide.

• Offering 7-day boarding, 5-day boarding, and day enrollment options, we invite you to explore SBS!

PraisetheofMonth

“Traci and Carleton Brooks have created a training program that produces results at all levels. Their philosophy, coupled with top-notch training and horse care, creates opportunities for horses and riders to thrive. Readers of With Purpose will gain insight into the Balmoral way in this interesting and highly educational guide.” —Frank Madden

NOV. 9–12, 2023

W.SPRINGFIELD, MA Eastern States Exposition

• An Unparalleled Educational Program.

• The Largest Horse-Related Trade Show in North America.

• The “Marketplace” featuring quality consignments for horse & rider.

• The Fantasia (sponsored by Absorbine) — Equine Affaire’s signature musical celebration of the horse on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

• Breed Pavilion, Horse & Farm Exhibits, Horses for Sale and Demonstrations — Enjoy meeting horses of all shapes, sizes, breeds, colors, and disciplines!

• Equine Fundamentals Forum — Educational presentations, exhibits, and activities for new riders and horse owners, young & old.

• The Versatile Horse & Rider Competition

A fast-paced timed and judged race through an obstacle course with $5,500 at stake!

• Adoption Affaire — Find and adopt your next horse at the Adoption Affaire.

• Youth Activities and much, much more!

North America’s Premier Equine Exposition & Equestrian Gathering

GUT HEALTH

Prebiotics promote enhanced digestion

BALANCED ENERGY

Protein and fat levels aid in maintaining ideal weight and energy for active horses

PERFORMANCE RECOVERY

Organic trace mineral nutrition supports muscle function and superior bone health

ANTIOXIDANT BLEND

Vitamin E and selenium promote overall health

A NEW WAY TO PAY WITH USAG

AS EQUESTRIANS, we are constantly looking for ways to maximize our time at the barn and with our horses. But equine pursuits comes with many challenges, both in the tack and on the business end.

US Alliance Group Inc. (USAG) is working to ease challenges for all companies using their payment processing systems so that merchants can close their books and get back in the barn.

Collecting payments for all businesses, equine-related or not, can be a difficult process behind the scenes. Using certain payment processing companies could mean costly fees, a lack of account protection, held payments, and more. USAG is seeking to change all that.

Named one of Inc.’s 500 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America for multiple years, USAG is committed to providing quality merchant services and maintaining ongoing relationships and equitable partnerships with their clients. Their mission is to be a “one-stop-shop” for all payment and product needs.

The company puts its focus on facilitating diverse payment processing for each unique merchant, making prioritizing the client their goal.

USAG has a personal understanding of the equine community as many of their employees are riders, volunteers, or investors in the industry.

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU

USAG has a personal understanding of the equine community as many of their employees are riders, volunteers, or investors in the industry

Fadi Cheikha is building relationships with the equine community to ease payment processing

WHAT THEY DO

USAG is a payment processing company that facilitates the relationship that businesses need with banks and credit card networks in order to accept digital forms of payment (debit cards, credit cards, and ACH transactions).

The company o ers solutions such as physical terminals, point-of-sale systems, and online gateways for secure in-person and online transactions.

They also provide individual merchant accounts, high-risk processing, customized contracts, U.S.-based customer service, and pricing structures to meet the speci c needs of each business.

USAG’s Chief Executive O cer, Fadi Cheikha, prides himself on doing things by the book. Cheikha makes it a point to get to know his clients on an individual level, so USAG is able to provide everything the merchant needs and nothing that they don’t.

“I am fairly new to the payment processing industry and to USAG, but what I can tell you from working for Fadi for the past 8 months is that he prides himself on helping business owners thrive,” Mario Quintana, Director of Marketing at USAG, tells The Plaid Horse. “Fadi runs a company with high ethical standards and family values.”

BRINGING PASSION TO BUSINESS

While working in nance is his profession, Cheikha is passionate about the equine world. All of his children ride horses, including his daughter Jacquie Cheikha who has been making a name for herself in the show jumping arena and appeared on the April 2023 cover of The Plaid Horse.

“As a successful business owner and passionate equestrian, I understand

the complexities of the equine industry and the importance of having a reliable payment processing company. USAG has catered speci cally to equine industry merchants’ unique needs for over 7 years,” says Cheikha.

As Cheika focuses on moving his company towards helping more businesses, the integration into the equine world only seemed natural.

“When the conversation came up about who would use our system in the equine world, we did a full analysis of business types and industries,” says Quintana.

Their analysis resulted in an overwhelming amount of potential for business owners in the equine world, such as trainers, veterinarians, barn owners, and equine insurance agencies, to name a few.

Cheikha’s mission is to streamline operations and provide peace of mind processes for equine merchants, resulting in more time for these merchants to grow their businesses and enjoy their horses.

FOR THEIR MERCHANTS

With competitors such as Square, Stripe, or PayPal, USAG is a greater choice for the equine community due to its consideration for the merchant.

“Many of our competitors have a at fee for payment processing, regardless if a customer is paying by swiping, taping, or making an online payment,” says Quintana. “We don’t have a at fee as we customize all our rates to match the business needs and payment type.”

The result is that USAG merchants do not overpay for processing fees. This allows merchants to put money back into their businesses.

USAG o ers a wide variety of

payment portals, ranging from in-person terminals, to Wi-Fi equipped products, to online payment platforms. Contrasting larger vendors, USAG’s fully in-house operation and dedicated merchant service teams o er equine businesses more secure payments, risk monitoring, and convenient access to knowledgeable and friendly customer support.

“Many businesses experience a loss of cash ow as their funds are tied up with large payment providers for anywhere from four to nine months,” says Mark Davis, Chief Revenue O cer of US Alliance Group. “With a smaller company like USAG, we monitor our individual merchant accounts closely, assess any risky transactions, form personalized relationships, and make it easy for our merchants to receive their settlements on time. Holding funds from our merchants like that is just not an option.”

SUPPORTING THE HORSE WORLD

Currently, US Alliance Group works with Nilforushan Equisport Events and Equilife Style Boutique and hopes to expand to more equine-focused companies in the coming year.

“When you join the USAG family, we help you streamline your payment processing, providing you with peace of mind, so that you can focus on growing your business while supporting the equestrian community,” says Cheikha.

For more information on USAG and how they can be a benefit to your business, visit www.ecspayments. com/equestrianpayment-processing/.

PHOTO: COURTESY USAG

“As a successful business owner and passionate equestrian, I understand the complexities of the equine industry.”

—FADI CHEIKHA, USAG CEO

photo alden corrigan media

What It Means To Be Number One

Meticulously engineered with the safety of your horse in mind. Kraft Horse Walkers combines innovative, high-quality craftsmanship with exquisite functional designs to fit your needs.

Nothing moves a horse like Kraft.

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“It’s very important that my horses get to move. We don’t have a lot of space in Holland, the big fields... So they don’t move as much as I would like them to. That is why the Kraft Horse Walker is an important part of our daily routine. It’s good for them mentally, to be able to walk and stretch naturally. It’s great for their fitness. Kraft walkers are safe, reliable, a great investment. I trust them completely.”

~ Hendrick von Eckermann

859-744-2270

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The world’s number one ranked Jumper rider and horse Hendrick von Eckermann and King Edward

The world’s number one r anked rider and horse HdkEkdKEdd

US Equestrian Leading Pony Owner 2022

TIPS FOR RIDING SUCCESS: BE A GOOD LEARNER

Good learners want to know anything and everything they can about training, showing, and horse care. They watch videos and read books and listen to podcasts about horses and training. They ask good questions of me, the vet, the farrier, the grooms. They never stop learning.

TIPS FOR RIDING SUCCESS: BE RESPONSIBLE

Responsible students know that, ultimately, they have to take control of their own learning.

It’s not up to their trainer, their parents, nor their horse—especially not the horse. The horse didn’t sign up for this sport. We ask them to let us ride, train, and jump them. Most of the time they comply.

If the horse doesn’t, the responsible rider asks why and tries to be a good listener and good learner.

HORSE SHOWS

Our Favorite Spots at the Horse Show:

DEVON

MIDWAY

The classic ferris wheel is a must on any trip to Devon

SNACKS

Devon is known for its tea sandwiches and lemon sticks. You’ll find them both here.

MAP GRAPHIC: ADOBESTOCK; PHOTOS: ADAM HILL, COURTESY RENNIE DYBALL

MAP: COURTESY OF THE DEVON HORSE SHOW

WARMUP RING

WHEELER RING

RING

DIXON OVAL

Home of the famed “Where Champions Meet” sign, as well as a variety of divisions and the Grand Prix of Devon

Stevens and Wimberly

Lonestar, Circuit Champion Amateur Adult Hunters

IT TAKES TWO

Rider-owner team Lainie Wimberly and Laurie Stevens take the hunter ring by storm

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU

PHOTOS: SPORTFOT (FAR RIGHT); COURTESY WIMBERLY/STEVENS

Cayman winning the Style Award at WEF in the 3’3” Greens

HEN YOU COMBINE a passionate rider with a talented horse it can be magic in the show ring. And if you’ve ever watched Lainie Wimberly ride, you know just how magical that can be.

Described as an equestrian who is masterful in the saddle, Wimberly has racked up success at some of the nation’s top horse shows, from the Hunter Derby ring to the Grand Prix.

But there’s one more element that’s crucial to Wimberly’s great success—an equally passionate owner. When Wimberly met Laurie Stevens, they formed an instant connection that grew into a true partnership.

In 1981, Wimberly started a four year-old horse named Brigadoon, which is now the name of her farm based out of North Salem, NY. Within the year of starting Brigadoon, she brought the mare to Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden and was called back into the second round in the top two (though Brigadoon was unfortunately injured before the second round and unable to compete).

“My entire career has been based on bringing along young horses,” Wimberly tells The Plaid Horse.

She went on to ride with R.W. “Ronnie” Mutch and later worked for Melanie Smith Taylor as a rider. During her junior years, she was primarily a catch rider and was known for qualifying the horses for Indoors.

After her junior career, she imported her first horse, Nobleman, a four-yearold stallion from Northern Holland. She had him gelded and sent to the states.

“I thought he was going to be a jumper,” says Wimberly. “But I started showing him in the hunters and he won every class.”

Nobleman went on to win the World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) Professional Class at Capital Challenge, and The Legacy Cup, among other big wins.

“He is the one that really catapulted

my career,” says Wimberly. “I really hope that one day he will be inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame. He deserves it.”

After Nobleman, Wimberly continued importing horses, and many of them went on to win with new owners at Devon and Indoor finals. “I was well known for sourcing horses for riders,” says Wimberly.

Wimberly spends her summers at Brigadoon’s headquarters in New York, showing at area shows. In the winter, she travels to Wellington, FL, for the circuit, which was where she met Stevens.

A POWERFUL CONNECTION

Stevens began riding when she was a child and, after taking a break, started back up in her twenties.

“I rode with a lot of people throughout my years because I wanted to learn a lot of things from a lot of people,” says Stevens.

Most notably, she rode with Diane Carney, to whom she credits much of her success.

“Diane taught me a lot, she pushed me a lot,” says Stevens. “The nine years I spent with her gave me a solid foundation, and I credit much of my success to her.” From there, Stevens spent three years with Larry Glefke, and

PHOTOS: THE BOOK LLC (TOP); JAMES LESLIE PARKER (BOTTOM)

PHOTOS: SPORTFOT (TOP); ALL OTHERS COURTESY WIMBERLY/STEVENS

“From the moment we started working together, we had such a connection. Lainie just had such a connection with all of my horses.”

—LAURIE STEVENS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Belvedere and Stevens at the Hampton Classic; Cayman and Wimberly winning the Derby at ESP 3, 2023; Visionary and Stevens; Nobleman and Wimberly; Paraduxx, Circuit Champion WEF ESP 3’3”

met her husband, Haynes Stevens.

It was her husband who encouraged Stevens to buy a horse named Visionary, who went on to be the Amateur Owner Hunter Horse of The Year. “That partnership put me on the map,” she notes. From there, she went on to continue importing several horses and began riding with Tammy Provost. Together, they produced many winners, such as Tommy Bahama. Adds Stevens: “Rob Bielefeld and Chrystal Knight have also been instrumental in contributing to my path of success.”

With her husband, Haynes Stevens, DVM, an equine veterinarian, Stevens moved to Wellington, Florida, opening up Equine Services Ltd., a facility that they built together.

Upon meeting Wimberly, the two just clicked. There wasn’t even a courtship period, as Stevens put it: “We started winning big from the very first day. We

started having a saying between us, ‘A day isn’t a day without a blue ribbon.’ From the moment we started working together, we had such a connection. Lainie has such a masterful connection with my horses and with me.”

WINNER AFTER WINNER

Wimberly began selecting horses for Stevens, and in 2009, Stevens was the circuit champion at the Wellington Equestrian Festival (WEF) in the 3’3” Amateur Owner Division aboard Orka, a horse that Wimberly had brought along.

Since then, they have had numerous winners, including Iceman, Santiago, Lonestar, Belvedere, Listen to Me, CC Cool, Unistar, and Quartermaster.

“Santiago was a dream horse,” says Stevens. “Lainie owned him and wasn’t going to sell him!” With some convincing though, Wimberly sold

Santiago to Stevens once she was sure the partnership would thrive. “I thought, if I’m going to sell him to a client, I need to make sure it works!” says Wimberly.

Santiago and Stevens went on to win reserve circuit champion at WEF, WCHR week champion, and champion at Capital Challenge. Santiago is now retired. “From the second I laid eyes on Santiago, I was mesmerized,” says Stevens. “Santiago was and is my dream horse of a lifetime.”

Reflecting on the long list of horses the two have worked with, Stevens adds, “they’ve all been winners. Every single one of them.” Many horses that Wimberly has imported have been favorites by more than just Stevens.

“If she likes a horse, she will keep them in the barn,” says Stevens of Wimberly. “So many clients have passed along horses to keep them in the barn. Some of them will stay eight or nine years, rotating through clients!”

BELOW: Iceman winning WEF Circuit Champion in the Amateur Adult Hunters

RIGHT: Stevens and Wimberly with Iceman, Grand Champion Amateur Adult Hunter at the Hampton Classic

And in the past few years, Wimberly has been focused on National Grand Prix classes. “Those have enhanced my handy hunter riding and brought me a new level of confidence and ease about my riding,” she says.

A PERFECT FIT

This past year, Wimberly and Stevens began thinking about the future and how they could continue to combine forces.

“I think a gift we have together is we recognize potential in horses,” says Stevens. “I’ve had just as much fun watching Lainie ride and develop horses as I have in the saddle myself.”

With that in mind, Stevens is shifting focus and together, she and Wimberly are expanding their business to importing and selling horses. “Laurie has a great eye and she’s really good at picking out a quality horse,” says Wimberly. “She picks

out horses that anyone can ride, it’s not just for one rider.”

The pair pride themselves on picking based on quality and allowing the horses to dictate how quickly they come along, putting an emphasis on proper development. “We want to really handpick horses that are special,” says Stevens. “I am not going to buy one just to have one.”

Of course, no one can do it alone in this business, and both Wimberly and Stevens note that their grooms, Jesus Barcena and Pablo Mendoza, are integral to their success.

While Wimberly will continue running Brigadoon, she plans to keep the business small with only a couple of clients while focusing on developing top talent. “I don’t want to be a factory of people. I want to focus on developing and bringing along horses because I’m so hands on,” she says. “I want

FROM MIDDLE: Santiago and Stevens; Cayman and Pablo Mendoza after winning the Derby at ESP 3; Stevens and Wimberly celebrating another circuit championship

to produce those top riders. I want to produce those top horses.”

With the help of their contact in Europe, Desiree Johnson, from whom Stevens has been importing horses for 15 years, the two are working to hand select only the best horses for buyers in America.

“I want to be the go-to person for horse sales,” says Stevens. “It makes me really proud to see our horses go on to do well.”

While the two women undeniably have a successful business model, they have more importantly built a friendship based on the trust and belief they have in each other.

“What made connecting with Laurie successful is I have the backing and belief of her,” says Wimberly. “It gives me a little extra something. You could call it confidence or pride. It just makes me not have to worry about anything and focus on the partnership with the horse.”

“Laurie has a great eye and she’s really good at picking out a quality horse. She picks out horses that anyone can ride, it’s not just for one rider.”

—LAINIE WIMBERLY

American Wild Horse Campaign Luncheon

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Jenni Kayne’s rescue pony • 2 Melissa Tritinger (Deputy Director), Madie Hoenig (Administrative Assistant), Ellie Phipps Price (Board President), Jenni Kayne (Host), Stacey Kubasak Goschin (Host), Grace Kuhn (Communications Director), Suzanne Roy (Executive Director), Alicia Goetz (Board Member), Sierra Jones (Ambassador Program)

WEST LOS ANGELES, CA • APRIL 13, 2023

DESIGNER JENNI KAYNE AND Stacey Kubasak Goschin cohosted an educational afternoon for the American Wild Horse Campagin (AWHC) at Kayne’s home in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains while her rescue mini ponies looked on. The AWHC is the leading wild horse advocacy organization in the country. Read more at theplaidhorse.com.

PHOTOS: AMANDA C. SANFORD

3 Nikki Reed (left) and Sarah Wright Olsen • 4 Gjelina Group Catering •

5 Winter Hoffman, Jami and Hannah Heidegger, Saree Gordon Solanki, and Tracy Katayama Esse

6 Tracy Katayama Esse and the rescue pony • 7 Hostess Jenni Kayne • 8 The Double Shot Bar May/June 2023

PLAID HORSE

Clothing has the power to...make us feel at home in our bodies…and in the case of equestrian sports, make us feel at the top of our game.”

Inclusivity MATTERS

EACH MONTH, THE PLAID HORSE IS PROUD TO INTRODUCE READERS TO EQUESTRIAN BRANDS THAT VALUE INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY IN THEIR PRODUCTS AND THEIR ADVERTISING

—STREET & SADDLE’S KATELYN WOODBURN

STREET & SADDLE

BODIES COME IN AN ASTOUNDING and beautiful variety of forms. When I started my equestrian clothing brand, Street & Saddle, my main aim was to celebrate that fact. The last eight years has been a brick-by-brick journey towards not just the sizes we o er, but the imagery and marketing that accompanies the clothing.

My motivation to embark on this was simple: I was angry (and still am) at the body dysmorphia and poor self-esteem that women experience because of unrealistic expectations of how they should look. And as an equestrian, it felt strange and unsettling that the pursuit of strength and skill had to go hand in hand with an ideal waist measurement.

Executing the goal of providing size inclusive riding gear was not a simple undertaking. I was sco ed at repeatedly, and had trouble nding technical designers who were willing to work with larger sizes. With the help of some supportive industry experts, we moved everything in-house: design, manufacturing—the whole process. By doing so, we were able to start o ering free custom sizing. This added huge value for our customers, and also for myself as a designer, getting the chance to talk directly with people about their needs. We now o er sizes XXS to 5X, in a mix of equestrian and everyday apparel from riding leggings to sweaters, tanks and jackets.

Clothing has the power to kickstart our con dence and make us feel at home in our bodies…and in the case of equestrian sports, make us feel at the top of our game. Our closets are far from the full sum of our mental health, but a pair of breeches that make you feel like a million bucks can absolutely help start the day on the right foot. However, clothing can be a huge pain point for riders. For many plus size equestrians, there simply aren’t enough options and variety. And only seeing models of a certain (slim) size in marketing and catalogs serves to add further feelings of exclusion. “It’s hard not to feel like an outlier when you rarely see your body type represented on the back of a horse,” says Kate Kosno of Kate at the In Gate, an equestrian photographer and in uencer. “And that can honestly take away from the joy that is riding.”

And while so much progress has been made in this area in the last few years, there’s still a long way to go. “The narrative that this sport is only for a certain kind of person is tired and played out,” adds Kosno . “Equestrian brands have the responsibility to put a variety of body types in their products, plain and simple.”

Representation of body diversity goes beyond just being able to tell how a piece of clothing would look on you.

“Including people who are plus size normalizes our existence. We exist in this sport, whether people like it or not, and we deserve to exist here,” says

THOUGHTS FROM STREET & SADDLE FOUNDER KATELYN WOODBURN

BELOW: Woodburn’s Street & Saddle line offers clothing sizes XXS to 5X as well as free custom sizing. Here she is pictured in the Horse Power Vintage Jacquard Moto Jacket

Kosnoff (@kateattheingate_ on Instagram) wears the Haystack Sleeveless Quarter Zip Top

PHOTOS: SHANE YU (TOP LEFT); MIPSY MEDIA (BOTTOM); STREET & SADDLE (RIGHT)

GET MORE INCLUSIVE FASHION

Check out our April issue featuring Free Ride Equestrian, Kerrits & EQL and Milestone Equestrian. And look for more coming in July!

Stephanie Kallstrom, hunter rider and USEF “r” judge in training. “Multiple people reach out to me on my social media daily about how they hide in the equestrian world because of their body. Some have quit riding because they don’t feel safe in the sport and it’s not worth the emotional hell.”

As riders and athletes, we absolutely owe it to ourselves and our horses to be as t as possible. But “ t” can vary in appearance from one person to another.

“You absolutely can be fat and t,” says Kallstrom. “People are more concerned about the ‘look’ of someone’s body than their e ectiveness as a rider.”

Though an image on social media or a brand adding another size to their o erings may seem like a drop in the bucket, these changes do make a di erence. “My presence on social media gets a lot of hate messages,” Kallstrom adds. “But plenty more people are passionate about horses and support this community without exceptions.”

Today, The Plaid Horse is featuring trail blazers of apparel inclusivity within our sport [see sidebar above]. It gives me great joy that there is not just one, but a whole group of brands working on making the equestrian world a more welcoming and inclusive place.

Kosno may summarize it best: “Horses don’t care what you look like or what the number on the tag of your breeches is—if you are kind to them, they are kind right back. We would be smart to follow their lead.”

I was angry (and still am) at the body dysmorphia and poor self-esteem that women experience because of unrealistic expectations of how they should look.”

—STREET & SADDLE’S KATELYN WOODBURN

Kallstrom (@stephkall) wears the Del Mar Horse Print Half Zip Sun Shirt

R I D E R Z O N

HIGH FASHION, COVETED BOOK

Model Lauren Raggi carried WITH PURPOSE: THE BALMORAL STANDARD (a.k.a. the ultimate equestrian accessory) in a recent photo shoot. Get your limited-edition hardcover at The Devon Horse Show at the Lauracea booth, or on Amazon.com.

HORSES

MARE POWER

PHOTOS: OLIVIA DANIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

At the 2023 FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha in April, many of the brightest show jumping stars weren’t geldings or stallions…

AcotaM & Natalie Dean

Cicci BJN and Wilma Hellström

Legacy and Daniel Coyle

Callas and McLain Ward

Gemma W and Daniel Bluman

Baloucenta and Moufi Owaida Al Karbi

Lancelotta and Nurjon Tuyakbaev

Kardenta Van’t Meerhof and Elisa Broz

Visconti du Telman and Kevin Staut

“We use NibbleNets exclusively in our stalls and round pens. I love the XL size. We fill them twice a day and almost feed a bale of alfalfa hay a day. We have young Thoroughbreds, all right off the track, who can be hard on things. These last unlike any other product!”

—JESSICA REDMAN Owner/Trainer, Benchmark Sport Horses

Photos by Carmen Elisa Franco

From Working Student to Ph.D.

A look back at what horses have in common with academia

WORDS: MIGUEL WILSON

Long ago, at 14 years old, I moved away from home to ride horses. At the time, it felt like such a natural and inconsequential decision. Now, it has proven to be anything but that.

I have no clue who I would be if I had not packed my bags and thrown caution to the wind, but I shudder to imagine how different my life would be. My time as a working student taught me how to be an advocate and what it takes to work on a team. My love for horses took me to places all over the country and pushed me to be more than I had ever imagined. The prerequisites for being a working student—grit, determination, and fearlessness—are the same attributes that have made traveling the globe and tackling my doctorate degree in organizational science a cakewalk.

I began my time as a working student after spending a few years away from horses. I stopped riding after being frustrated with my lack of progress as someone who could only afford weekly riding lessons. It was easier to quit at the time, though I wish I had thought to be a touch more resourceful earlier on. Perhaps it was the perspective I gained, leaving something that meant so much to me, that ignited the passion that was so necessary once I left the comforts of home and the only life I had known up to that point.

After scouring ads online and

cold-calling bemused trainers, Phoebe Loughrey took a chance on me. It takes a great deal of blind faith to put yourself out there and say, “please invest in me.” Of course, at the time, it was so much more simple. I just wanted to ride. From there, I was connected to Matt Cyphert, Will Roberts, and Katie Cooper, all of whom were integral to my journey and growth as horseperson and human.

Moving away, the walls of my high school essentially became the four corners of my computer screen. My high school experience was spent doing school online in the early morning hours, and running barns of 30+ horses during the day. I had no tutors, my teachers were miles and miles away, and my “work” required me to live and breathe life on the farm. Thrust into such an intense, chaotic workplace, I was astounded by my level headedness. Plenty of obstacles and fires, both real and imagined, became mere speedbumps in my journey. I was beyond lucky to have adults surrounding me that trusted and supported me.

Their trust and support enabled me to speak freely and learn to advocate for myself and others. The saying is

true—closed mouths do not get fed. Speaking up for myself and setting boundaries are lifelong pursuits, but let’s just say the training wheels came off immediately while I was a working student! I think it helps to have incredible role models in your corner who can set an example for you, and I am grateful to have had countless role models. In a funny way, academia is just as messy as the horse world. I am thankful—and certain that it is not by coincidence—that drama in both worlds has stayed far, far away from me. I think this is in part because of my intentions and my ultimate goal of doing right by others.

These are lessons that horses teach us. As our partners, we have to do everything in our power to do right by them. We have to speak up for the voiceless. Oftentimes that requires a lot of listening, observing, and thinking. As researchers, we rely on the same tools. It requires a great deal of patience, and, yes, getting it wrong sometimes.

I learned to swallow my pride a long, long time ago. In Colorado at a horse show, I was warned before that a particular horse was a “spinner,” and he

PHOTOS: COURTESY MIGUEL WILSON (TOP); SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

SHOVELING MANURE and writing literature reviews have a lot more in common than you might think.

Wilson competing in Lexington, KY

Wilson after defending their thesis

VOICES

did just that. I found myself in the dirt, my horse was already halfway back to the barn, and my trainer just looked at me and said, “Go get that horse!”

As someone who continues to be surprised by life’s opportunities for growth, I have noticed that there are various ways I contribute to the teams that I am a part of. Working with horses and my coworkers showed me how important it is to organize my time and respect the time of others as well. Firsthand, I have learned what it means to mediate conflict, conceptualize foolproof plans, and inevitably pivot when something unexpected throws a wrench in said plans.

To this day, with each project I am involved in, I bring my energy and creativity. After working in such a unique environment, those attributes present themselves in plenty of funny ways. Anecdotal tales, like blown tires on cross-country journeys hauling horse trailers, and rescuing an orphaned calf (named Norma), have granted me an invaluable perspective on what it means to step up and pitch in when the going

gets tough. The stakes are arguably much different in academia. If I forget to do my part, lives are not necessarily at stake. Yet I think of how important it was to wake up on time and feed and water the horses. I did not realize that through all of those years working on farms, I was learning the value of showing up and communicating when problems arise. Any successful team relies on these pieces of the puzzle, and I think horses gave me a greater appreciation for why it all matters.

There are days I miss my previous life dearly. Though yes, I do appreciate that I typically do not need to be up before 6 a.m. for grad school! Still, I would not trade any of the hours I spent cleaning tack or trailering horses across the country. (Actually, maybe I would swap

out those daylong stretches through the Midwest.) Truth be told, I have not sat on a horse since 2019 (pre-COVID), which is saying something since there was a time I rode at least 10 every day.

The reality is that horses were truly the first passion of my life. I see how I devote myself to my studies today and I see the same me that spent hours at the barn. They were also my first teachers of what it means to be a part of something larger than myself. The horse world was the first community that I truly saw myself in. We all speak the same language, you know? As I have grown more into my body and discovered my queer identity, it feels the same. It feels like I finally have the right words. I think we can truly feel when we are where we need to be, surrounded by people that see even the parts of ourselves that we are yet to understand. That is a kind of love I had not known until I discovered horses, and I have only just scratched the surface of how to explain it all.

MY TIME IN THE HORSE WORLD was arguably unique. It is likely very few would take on the kinds of responsibilities I had. Nor would many offer such chances to most teenagers today. I am beyond grateful and indebted to the people that saw something in me. My horse community is the very reason I am here today. They got me all the way to Medal Finals, which is no easy feat for a kid who had never even owned a horse. As I faced aging out, they all pushed me to apply to college, reminding me that horses would always be there—and they were right.

My mentors, like Sarah Rice Goodnough and Piper Klemm, wrote my reference letters and were sounding boards for my applications to over 30 schools. I landed in Washington, D.C., at American University on a scholarship. My organizational skills and level headedness were put to great use! Junior year, after being awarded a Gilman Scholarship, I lived and studied in Seoul, Korea, and Berlin, Germany. Upon return, I discovered that graduate school was not some abstract, unattainable concept, but a reality that I now inhabit. I will admit, I am currently a bit more removed from horses than 18-year-old me probably thought I would be. That said, I am right where I need to be, and I can look back and say I did everything I set my mind to.

Life, like horses, owes me nothing.

PHOTO: COURTESY MIGUEL WILSON (LEFT)

“These are lessons that horses teach us. As our partners, we have to do everything in our power to do right by them. We have to speak up for the voiceless.”

—MIGUEL WILSON

BELOW: Wilson in front of the Taj Mahal RIGHT: Wilson competing at Thermal

From The Plaid Horse managing editor Rennie Dyball, a picture book that encourages kids to accept and celebrate ALL bodies …

Rennie is the co-author of Show Strides with Piper Klemm, competes in the adult amateur hunter and equitation divisions, and is a passionate believer that all bodies are good bodies.

VHC Lexington Premiere

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Kym K. Smith’s Malibu Ken and Tiffany Cambria • 2 Malibu Ken won the 3’9” High Performance Hunter Championship as well as Grand Hunter Championship • 3 A cozy moment • 4 Grace Gallo and Jubilee. The pair won the Pony Schooling Hunter Championship. Photo credit: Page Gallo • 5 Lee Vaughters and Odyssey Carolina Blue, Grace Gallo and Jubilee, Lane Costa and Macgyver • 6 Marylisa Leffler and Rolling Acres’ ZaZa Z won the $35,000 Rockbridge Grand Prix

PHOTOS: TERESA RAMSAY, PAGE GALLO, AND CRISP PICS LLC

APRIL 26- 30, 2023

VIRGINIA HORSE CENTER LEXINGTON, VA

HORSE PUNK

By Linda Jisun Lee

STARLA CONTINUED in an engaged trot. Despite Ethan’s usual default skepticism, this session was already going better than he’d anticipated.

When he wasn’t starting horses back at home, Ethan had spent several years applying his personalized training methods to Tanner and many others. Almost all of them had ended up in great homes as trusted riding partners. But some of them just didn’t seem to want that lifestyle, and Ethan had no problem letting them live out their lives as pasture buddies for those who needed a companion. To him, every horse had a role on this planet. His father had taught him that a respectful horse-human partnership—whether or not it involved riding—was the

foundation for a mutually beneficial connection that was impossible to break if done right.

What made you change? Ethan wondered as Starla promptly responded to his signal for a canter. Is this all because of Lula May, or is there more?

Starla’s old owners had fondly reminisced about their favorite trail rides around their property. According to them, Starla was always the first horse to meet them at the gate, as well as the horse who was the most excited about getting tacked up, even for lessons. “Kind of like a dog seeing her leash,” was their exact quote. They had even shared some notes about Starla when she used to give rides to kids on her days off—Starla did it all with a bright, happy-go-lucky spirit.

“Too bad we’ll never know what really happened to her,” Rose reflected, her eyes locked on Starla’s every move.

“We actually might.” Ethan watched Starla complete her circle and then slightly closed his fingers. Starla immediately slowed and took a few steps toward him in the center of the round pen.

Rose blinked at him. “What do you mean?”

Ethan quickly relayed his recent phone conversation with Lula May. Even though he kept his delivery as neutral as possible, the shock on Rose’s face was undeniable

even before he finished.

“Punch?” Rose repeated. “She punched Starla?”

“Her words, unfortunately,” Ethan replied. “I’m not saying that’s the only culprit of Starla’s complete one-eighty, but it sure didn’t do any good. Either way, at least we know a little more background…you okay?” Rose suddenly looked distracted, like she was remembering something.

“I’m fine.” Rose snapped back to attention. “Let’s just continue.”

The afternoon air rapidly swirled into dusk. Harsh, dry gusts picked up as Starla worked in tandem with the sun lowering in the sky. She didn’t seem bothered by the random bucket that teetered off a nearby plastic chair, nor was she fazed when the wind skidded the same chair over on its side in plain sight. Everything Ethan asked her to do, Starla completed with an air of pleasant certainty.

“I have to say, she looks amazing. Good job, teacher—Starla and I both learned a lot today.” Rose glanced at her phone and hopped off the rail as Ethan unclipped the lunge line. “I should be heading home.”

“One last thing,” Ethan handed Rose the lead rope.

“You’re going to ride her?” Rose asked. Her eyes sparkled as she watched

him get the nearby saddle.

“We’ll see how it goes. First, I’ll saddle her up, see how she reacts.” Ethan gently laid the quilted saddle pad on Starla’s back. Starla didn’t flinch. Ethan patted her rump, reassuring her the way mares nudge their little foals from behind.

So far, so good, Ethan thought. He lowered the saddle squarely over the pad and buckled the girth, purposely going extra slowly. Even unflappable Tanner didn’t appreciate a rushed girth buckling.

Starla looked behind at him for a split second, paused, then turned back around.

“Good girl,” Rose reassured her, scratching under her mane. “She seems more than okay so far.”

“We’ll see.” Ethan stepped back and appraised Starla’s stance. “Think I’ll get the bridle now. You have some extra time? Won’t take long.”

mounting a green horse for the first time. Starla wasn’t green by any means, but Ethan empathized with her recent ordeal. She deserved fair communication and kindness. Every horse did.

Ethan took in her disposition. Soft and engaged.

“Let’s go for it,” Ethan decided firmly. It might as well be today since everything else had gone so well.

Rose’s eyebrows shot up. “Great!”

Ethan lifted his knee and set foot in the stirrup. Starla took a few steps forward, reacting to the human on her side. Ethan hopped once, then swung his other leg over and gently lowered himself into the saddle. Starla turned her head to get a look at her new rider, then lurched forward a few steps.

Ethan shifted back. Not a surprise. She calmed to a slow walk and he slackened

The two men chuckled as they stopped at the gate. They stood right next to Rose, ignoring her through their laughs.

“Better be careful. It doesn’t seem to like you!” They erupted into obnoxious cackles.

Right when Starla looked like she was over it, she surprised Ethan with another lurch, then a tiny buck. Ethan easily leaned back into the motion, muscle memory flowing from the many times he’d sat on horses specifically bred to fling off anything from their backs. This was no big deal.

The two men mocked applause, howling with glee.

“What do you want?” Ethan growled at them after Starla came to a halt.

“Sorry, dude,” Murray grinned. “Just wanted to bring my friend to check out the selection.”

“Are you guys alright?” Rose approached Ethan and Starla as calmly as she could.

“We’re fine,” Ethan replied, still facing the two men. “What ‘selection’ are you talking about? And who are you?” he demanded to Murray’s companion.

“I’m the guy who’s gonna take that horse off your hands. But you can call me Don.”

Rose nodded eagerly, still holding the lead rope. Go home now or stay a little longer with Starla? That was an easy one.

Ethan made a beeline to the tack room and quickly returned with a bridle. He unbuckled and removed the halter before gingerly holding the bit just below Starla’s mouth. Starla instantly cooperated by lowering her head. She deliberated for only a moment before separating her lips. Ethan barely had to nudge his thumb in the corner of Starla’s mouth to position the bit right in.

“What a polite girl,” Ethan praised as he tucked Starla’s ears and slid the headpiece over. “You know, Murray had trouble putting this on the very first time, too. You should’ve seen that.”

“I’m glad I didn’t,” Rose muttered. “Isn’t that Murray guy some hotshot trainer? Somehow I doubt that Lula May would hire him if he wasn’t.”

Ethan tried not to stir. “I’ve never heard of him.”

Starla chewed the bit, her head and neck loose, and stood quiet.

A certain spark lit in Ethan’s gut. It was the sensation he always got just before

the reins to the buckle. After she continued a walk at that pace for a bit, Ethan quietly pressed his legs for a trot.

Rose admired the two as they passed. They already looked synced. Riding obviously came second nature to Ethan, even when things took an unexpected turn.

Ethan urged Starla into a canter. Immediately he was impressed by how smoothly the mare moved with him. They went around once, twice. The first canter with a horse always reminded him of the first time he and Tanner cantered together, the day he knew he’d fully earned Tanner’s trust and respect.

An unexpected bang fractured the air. Starla hopped and swerved to the side. Ethan quickly got her attention back and turned toward the parking lot.

Murray stood outside of his truck. A second slam quickly followed as a portly man climbed out of the passenger seat. They briskly approached as if about to conduct some high-level business.

“Hey!” Murray boomed, cupping his hands.

Without warning, Starla skittered to the side.

“Like hell you are,” Ethan countered. Rose chimed in. “Starla isn’t for sale.”

Murray threw Rose a fleeting, withering glance. Paying her any mind was obviously a waste of his time. “Is that right, missy?” He turned back to Ethan and firmly tapped Starla’s hindquarters. She shuddered under his touch. “Lula May called and told me all about your little idea. Didn’t think much of it then, and now—well, seeing how this nag ain’t worth a dime—”

“It’ll be better when we take the dumb stinker off your hands,” Don interrupted. “Plenty of broomtails in this world with manners.”

“Get out of here,” Ethan retorted. It was always bad news when people spoke of horses this way. “Now.”

They didn’t acknowledge him as they surveyed Starla. She stood there quietly, but when Don ran his hand over her croup, Ethan saw her body tense.

“That’s enough!” Ethan snapped, guiding Starla away. “Like we said, she isn’t for sale.”

The men snickered.

“Yet!” Murray bellowed at their backs, elbowing Don. “It isn’t for sale yet.”

“Starla’s old owners had fondly reminisced about their favorite trail rides around their property. According to them, Starla was always the first horse to meet them at the gate.”

Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event

APRIL 27- 30, 2023

KENTUCKY HORSE PARK • LEXINGTON, KY

PHOTOS: AVERY FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO GALLERY

THE PLAID HORSE QUESTIONNAIRE WITH B Bardwell

STATUS: Amateur OCCUPATION: Project Assistant for an engineering firm

HOMETOWN: Temperance, MI

As a horsewoman, I am most proud of: the bond my current horse, Joey, and I have created together with the help of so many people! Since I don’t have the length of leg that other riders do, Joey primarily listens to my voice along with my body. I’m always talking to him. • As a horsewoman, I would most like to improve on: the timing of my voice commands. Sometimes I’m not as accurate with them as I’d like to be, so I want them to be more consistent. • I’d be lost without towels in my ring bag because they can buff boots or they can buff ponies for that last minute shine before going in the ring. • I’d be lost without Joey’s kangaroo stuffed animal  in my tack trunk. It’s just a fun little keepsake that completes my trunk.

WOMEN IN OUR SPORT ARE tough and compassionate at the same time!

I think the biggest misconception about our sport is that all the rider does is sit there. People who don’t participate in our sport will never understand exactly how much work is done between both horse and rider. • I think the biggest misconception about differentlyabled riders is I honestly have never come across any misconceptions. I’ve made so many supportive friends in the sport throughout the years that I’ve always just been looked at and treated like any ordinary person. Nobody looks at me and thinks twice about anything that I do. Yes, I do things differently to make it work for me, but never any misconceptions. Often it’s just the reaction of, “Oh it’s just Britt doing X, Y, and Z.” • Something I say ten times a day is “hello, my love,” when talking to my horses. • My favorite horse book is Whole Food for Horses. • My favorite nonhorse book is The Defining Decade.

• The most difficult part of life with horses is: The perfectionist mindset we all have. With horses, being “perfect” doesn’t exist. We can only strive to be better. •

The part of horsemanship I’m best at is: making sure my horse’s laundry is clean, tack is cleaned and conditioned, and grooming supplies and trunks are clean. • I sometimes struggle with: our downward transitions. It’s a constant work in progress for us. • My absolute favorite horse show is: Traverse City, Kentucky, or WEC (both locations). I couldn’t pick a favorite. I’ve got lots more on my bucket list. • My motto is: I will do what others won’t do today, so I can do what they can’t do tomorrow.

PHOTOS: WINSLOW PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY BRITT BARDWELL (BOTTOM CENTER)

ONE THING I WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT DIFFERENTLY-ABLED RIDERS IS there’s more than one way to get the job done.

THE PONY FINALS COMING

ISSUE

DEADLINE: JULY 3, 2023

It Happens!

We all make mistakes. But horse people, as a group, aren’t always the best at handling them. So TPH reached out to some top riders to share their own show ring bloopers to prove, once and for all, that mistakes really do happen to the best of us!

SANDRA DALMAN

During one of my first FEI classes, I chipped an oxer badly and went through the whole thing. I didn’t know what to do—if I jump it again or keep going. I just remember Margie [Engle] screaming, ‘Keep going! You crossed through the standards!’ But then they beeped me when I was on the way to the next jump, so I had to jump it again!

When I came out, Margie told me the show was wrong and I definitely should have been able to keep going.

I guess the moral of the story is: Make sure you know the rules.”

HUNTER HOLLOWAY

I went off course at Maclay finals! It was the year after I was second. There was quite a bit of pressure, mainly from myself, going in. We’d already been second place at every final.

I’m mid-round and heading to the out of a bending line and there are two jumps that look identical. One we jumped one way and the other the opposite way, but I couldn’t remember which was which. I ended up jumping the wrong one.

It was so devastating and I came out of the ring a mess. My mom took me outside, and I gathered myself and walked over to Don [Stewart]. He gave me a big hug and made some joke like only he can do. We move on and learn from our mistakes. The next year we ended up winning.”

PHOTOS: KATE AT THE IN GATE PHOTOGRAPHY; SUMMER GRACE; FLAXEN MANE MEDIA

Hear more It Happens moments on the #Plaidcast at theplaidhorse.com/listen

I was making my adult show debut after not showing for more than a decade. To me, the nerves were full force. I was catch riding a big horse who I didn’t know too well, but was as sweet as can be. As we stepped into the ring, I thought one hopeful thought: ‘You’re probably worrying for nothing. What if you do amazingly?’

This thought carried me to a long approach oxer where I felt my horse gaining speed. Instead of relaxing down around him and taking more feel, I did nothing. Nothing…except for lean up his neck about two strides out. Where I thought we could leave the ground, my poor sweet horse amped up to try my distance, then realized the fool’s errand and added another stride.

To say I pop chipped this fence would be a glorious understatement. We jumped like a disgruntled deer over this thing. Yes, we cleared the jump—but at the cost of both my stirrups, and all of my pride. I was mortified and the rest of my round was done in panic, embarrassment, and one stirrup.”

VICTORIA SHEEHAN

PLAIDCAST EDITOR

Alexis

Gary Baker & Glena Wirtanen Spring Classics

MARCH 30 - APRIL 2 & APRIL 6 - 8, 2023

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Bella Hopkins and With Love with Amy Moore

2 Eloise Khouzami and Iceman • 3 Ashley Crouse and Kardinal • 4 Isabel Sotomayor and Porto Rico

5 Ryleigh Eichelberger and San Patriano

6 Alexandra Finder and Cayado • 7 Melanie Liener and Nittany • 8 Tatum Safa and Fox Creek’s Chorus Doll

PHOTOS: KMK PHOTOS

McDONOGH SCHOOL, OWINGS MILLS, MD

a school horse, it’s my job to teach people how to ride.”

great pride in giving riding lessons, moves to a new barn that’s full of he begins to doubt himself and his world—all while his rider is doing story of self-acceptance and friendages, Good Boy, Eddie captures the we form with animals, and what about ourselves along the way.

GOOD BOY, EDDIE

By Rennie Dyball

Order your copy at theplaidhorse.com/books

CHAPTER 1: NEW BARN

Up, FLOP. Up, FLOP. Up, FLOP.

“That’s it, you’re starting to get it: Up, down. Up, down. Up, down. That’s how you post the trot,” says the instructor. “But try to sit more lightly on Eddie and not come crashing down like a sack of potatoes, okay?”

I’m teaching my first lesson at New Barn and things are going pretty well. I am a school horse, and it’s my job to teach people how to ride. The instructor, Melissa (she’s the person who teaches the lesson with me), is standing in the middle of the ring while I trot around her in a big circle. The way my rider flops down in my saddle doesn’t hurt, it’s just a little uncomfortable. But I can tell that she’s new to riding, so it’s fine with me. We go around and around the ring. There are walls on every side to keep the wind out. Wooden beams crisscross the high ceiling and I think I can see some birds’ nests tucked up in the corners. Before I came here to this New Barn, I taught lots of riding lessons at a place much bigger than this one. I was one of about fifteen school horses back at the Old Barn. I had so many riders I

EDDIE DYBALL

RENNIE DYBALL

Good Boy, Good Boy,

eventually lost count! I really liked it back at Old Barn and I’m not sure why I had to leave, especially because I thought I was good at my job.

My new rider—Melissa keeps saying “Kennedy,” so I suppose that’s her name—was very nice to me in my stall when we were getting ready for the lesson, chatting the whole time. She smelled like soap and flowers. I don’t know exactly what she was talking about, but she had a lot to say. And I was happy to listen.

You might be surprised to know that horses understand about seven to ten spoken words. I call them spoken words, rather than English words, because the people I know speak more than one language. I personally know nine words. But the really great thing is that I don’t need a whole lot of words to communicate with people because I can interpret so many emotions. I get body language, too, and I always know kindness when I feel it. Basically, I understand much more than people think.

The specifics vary from horse to horse, but I personally understand all the following words when they are said aloud by people:

entirety. I love a good boy, Eddie. We walk a lap around the ring before Kennedy steers me to the center. Melissa pats my head. Gallagher, one of the horses who gets turned out in the paddock with me, is also in the ring now. His lesson is about to start. We give each other a look, like a changing of the guard.

It’s his turn now to take care of his rider. I love what I do, but I’m still a bit relieved when the lesson is done. It’s hard work to keep a rider safe. Also, the end of the lesson means I get a nice brushing, and sometimes a carrot.

gripping the saddle with both hands as she allows her body to slink down to the ground. When her feet hit the dirt, she stumbles back a few steps as she regains her balance. I may not be very big for a horse, but it’s a long way down when you’re not very big for a person.

Kennedy gives me a big pat on my neck. It was a good first lesson. Melissa leads me out of the ring, and we walk outside on the way back to my stall. An evening breeze rustles the leaves on the trees all around us. I watch as a few of them float lazily to the ground.

I think I’m going to like this place.

When you take the words that Melissa just said to Kennedy, for example, all I really got out of that was trot. So, I kept trotting. Melissa’s voice also sounded kind and encouraging, which are good signs that I should continue what I’m doing; that I’m helping my rider learn.

As I walk past Gallagher, I wish him good luck. Horses don’t communicate out loud the way people do, but I can hear what other horses are telling me, and they can hear what I tell them, especially once we get to know each other. People don’t pick up on this, of

I also know the meaning of two sounds that aren’t technically words. I know that the clucking sound—when people suck down tight on their tongue and then release it—means to move forward. If I’m already moving forward, then the “cluck” means to go faster. (I’ve come to learn that people can mean more than one thing based on a single sound. It gets a little confusing.) I also know the sound of someone shaking my grain in a feed bucket, which means it’s time to come into the barn to eat.

ALL of us know that sound, even from two paddocks away.

I feel pressure as my rider pulls on the reins, drawing the metal bit back into the corners of my mouth. I slow from a trot to a walk before I even hear Melissa say whoa.

“Good boy, Eddie,” she says with a laugh. Now that, I understood in its

course. If they did, we’d all understand each other with a whole lot less fuss! Horses do “speak” to each other from time to time, but mostly it’s just listening and feeling. If you ask me, I think people could probably benefit from less talking and more feeling.

Horses use our bodies, too, to show what we are thinking. People can usually decipher our body language, if they’re paying attention. Pinned ears means we’re angry, and ears perked forward means we’re concentrating on something. One or both ears cocked gently back means we’re listening.

It all seems much easier than the way people communicate.

Kennedy takes her feet out of the stirrups and swings one leg over the back of my saddle. Melissa is taking her through the steps of dismounting. Next, Kennedy slides down my left side,

Rennie Dyball is the co-author of the Show Strides novel series and managing editor for The Plaid Horse magazine. Rennie grew up riding school horses and now shows on the A circuit in the adult hunter and equitation divisions. She hopes that Eddie will remind readers of all the “schoolies” they’ve known and loved. Learn more about Rennie at renniedyball.com.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE PLAID HORSE AND RENNIE DYBALL

I can interpret so many emotions. I get body language, too, and I always know kindness when I feel it. Basically, I understand much more than people think.

Pin Oak Charity Horse Show

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Starting them young! • 2 Mindy Coretz and Chagall • 3 Third Coast Bank representatives and guests enjoying the company’s $100,000 Grand Prix 4 Nicolas Gamboa and NKH Mr. Darcy capped off a banner three weeks with victory in the $100,000 Third Coast Bank Grand Prix • 5 Maddie Chenoweth earned the first Grand Prix win of her career aboard Navaro van’t Verahof • 6 Andrew Jones and Miranda Jones of Porter Hedges

7 Miniature horse Noel of Madrone Ranch Stables • 8 Daniel and Lindsay Bedoya in a retirement ceremony for Daniel’s acclaimed mount Quattro

PHOTOS: ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY AND RANDOLPHPR

MARCH 29 – APRIL 16, 2023

KATY, TX

SHOW STRIDES BOOK 5

PACKER PRESSURE

“CAMERON? Like the Cameron? The barn favorite who wins everything and everyone loves?”

“Yup,” said Tally, laughing at her friend’s wideeyed expression.

“Tally, this is huge!” said Mac, wrapping her friend up in a hug. Mac’s pony, Joey, nudged the girls with his nose, eager to get in on the celebration.

“I know,” said Tally, bending down to unwrap one of Joey’s polos alongside her friend.

“I’ve never ridden a horse this experienced. It’s going to be weird!”

“It’s going to be awesome,” Mac corrected her. Mackenzie (Mac)

Bennett was Tally’s best friend at the barn. At this point, probably her best friend, period. Mac had arrived about a year ago with Joey, a.k.a. Smoke Hill Jet Set, her partner in the Medium Pony Hunter division. When the girls first met, Tally knew next to nothing about the A circuit, having ridden only in the lesson program and at the barn’s in-house schooling shows. Now, Tally had competed several times at rated shows off the property, spectated at Devon and Pony Finals, and spent many sleepovers with Mac watching live streams and replays of the biggest shows in the country. There was nothing she loved more than immersing herself in the world of horses and showing.

“How was your lesson?” Tally asked.

“Great. Really great, actually,” Mac said, rubbing her chestnut pony’s neck. Joey licked Mac’s hand, in case a treat should materialize there. “But Ryan said he wanted to meet with me and my parents tonight, so I’m not sure what that’s about. How was your lesson?”

“It was good, I rode Obie and then I got on Toots because he was being extra spooky for his rider. I wish I’d known it was my last ride on Obie, though…Ryan has a kid who’s going to lease him. I wish I could have explained to him what’s happening. Or something…” Tally paused. “That sounds stupid right?”

Mac shook her head no, her expression serious.

“I’m so excited for Cam, but it’s still a little hard to move on. Remember when I cried in the porta-potties after I saw Goose at a show?” Goose was a green small pony that Tally helped bring along for Ryan. He got sold over the summer and it wasn’t easy seeing him with his new owner at a show back in September.

“Aw, Tal, that’s what makes you so good at this, though. You really love them,” said Mac.

Order your copy at theplaidhorse.com/books or on Amazon (paperback and Kindle)

“And they love you, too.”

“I hope so,” Tally said with a sigh. “And it’s great for Obie to have a person of his own. Ryan told me it’s one of his newer students who’s going to show in the Long Stirrup.”

A gust of wind whipped down the aisle. Joey raised his head on the cross ties and Mac jogged for the doorway.

“Hold on, everybody!” she called to the horses before sliding the big, heavy door closed. The mood on the aisle calmed down within seconds.

Mac disappeared into the tack room and Tally slipped into Cam’s stall. He was already wearing his blanket for the night but she couldn’t

resist a quick goodbye.

“Hi, sweet boy,” she said. Cam turned to face her. His eyes were big and soft. Tally could feel his kindness, just looking at him.

“I can’t believe I get to ride you for a month. Might even be two,” she said, stroking the horse’s neck. Cam wasn’t super tall—probably 15.3 hands or so, Tally guessed—but he was big through his body. She’d seen him around the barn, of course, but she had very little idea of what he’d be like to ride.

Down the aisle, both Tally and Cam heard the unmistakable swish of grain being dropped into a bucket. It was dinner time. Cam turned away from

Tally and stuck his nose in the feed bucket in the far corner of his stall.

“Well, it’s not there yet, buddy,” Tally said laughing. “Are you reminding us where your dinner should go?”

Cam faced her again. Something about his expression, those huge, soft eyes, filled Tally with affection. She didn’t even know this horse yet, but she already felt a fondness for him. Cam nickered and turned his head toward the sound of the feeding crew, heading in his direction.

“Have a good dinner, Cam,” Tally said, giving him one more pat before heading home.

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Junior Novice

Champion Team: Tally H

2 Collegiate National Champion Team: Savannah College of Art & Design

3 Individual Junior Novice Champion: Lainie Rubin

4 Collegiate National Individual Champion: Celia Cram of SCAD

5 Collegiate National Reserve Champion

Team: Centenary

6 National Junior Individual Champion: Kayleigh Wyatt

7 Junior National Reserve Chamption

Team: St. Timothy’s Blue

PHOTOS: Giana Terranova

Photography

EZGrip MAT MOVER is the original specially designed tool to move heavy rubber stall mats. The large teeth on the trigger provide a strong grip on even the wettest of mats. Best yet, it self adjusts to fit all styles and sizes!

HORSE SHOWS

Select Champions

PIN OAK

HORSE SHOW I

Katy, TX

MARCH 29 –APRIL 2, 2023

Children’s Hunter

14 & Under

Sainted & Carlysle Drosos

Conformation Hunter

MTM Pocket Listing & Jennifer Alfano

3'3" Green Hunter

Red Lion & Morgan Van

Nortwick

Junior Equitation 15 -17

Kido Blue Vant Achterhof & Kiara Lemaire

ATLANTA IN THE SPRING

Fairburn, GA

MARCH 16 –19, 2023

Adult Amateur Hunter

36 & Over

Photograph & Keri Rankin

Low Children’s Hunter

Levi Z & Grace Dunphy

Opportunity Short/ Long Stirrup Hunter A

Paparazzi & Anne Schiller

USHJA Hunter 2'/2'3"

Wat Tyler & Katie Ramsey

SWAN LAKE WINTER FINALE

Littlestown, PA

MARCH 24 –26, 2023

Small/Medium Green

Pony Hunter

Arnaby Bo Bijou & Carmen Sensenig

Junior Hunter 3'3"

Heir Mystic & Dakota Coughlan

.90 m Jumpers

Quovetta Buisson Z & Heloise Germain

Baby Green Hunter

Take Care & Allie Robins

DESERT CIRCUIT IX

Thermal, CA

MARCH 15 –19, 2023

Adult Equitation

36 & Over

Carl & Kathryn E. Courain

Amateur-Owner Hunter

3'6" 18-35

Concerto & Caroline Ingalls

Green Hunter 3’

Valor & Nick Haness

.70 m Open Jumper

Red Stone & Georgie Murray

of myself, my wife, Elizabeth, and our welcome to Winding Way Farm, Dimples Horse Treats.

Winding Way Farm, horses are our passion. Elizabeth and I come from very different equine backgrounds, we both have enjoyed a love of horses childhood. A love that we now enjoy sharing children. Elizabeth is an accomplished horseman years of show experience with Saddlebreds. myself, I was more of a backyard cowboy until I breeding, training and racing thoroughbred now enjoy breeding Friesian horses together, has horses without treats? Not us!

sampling other horse treats, we decided to create a with healthy ingredients, like ground flax supplement that has anti-inflammatory and promotes overall health), beet pulp, and whole grain. In fact, each Dimple treat teaspoon of ground flaxseed. even better is the irresistible aroma and soft texture that allows medication to be hidden in shape without the horse ever being aware! eliminates the guesswork in administering most medicine. It’s so easy anyone can do it!

perfected the recipe, we began sharing our treats with trainers, veterinarians and horse friends with the challenge to find the one horse resist the great taste and smell of Dimples. received very favorable feedback and decided to treats available to all horse lovers in a reusable pail (about 60 treats).

feel good using Dimples Horse Treats as a aid in giving medication or just a special equine friend will love!

order or leave a comment, visit our website Dimpleshorsetreats.com, or call me at (859) 240-9747.