The Plaid Horse - The Amateur Issue

theplaidhorse.com October 2014 1

Amateur Issue 2014

Americas Premiere Horse Show MagazineThe Plaid Horse

Inside Laura Owens Dominates Adult Equitation Getting Your Amateur Status Back Stress Inducers Why Were Cheering for Caitlin Boyle at Eq Finals

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Premier Facility of the Philadelphia Main Line Quality Ponies for Sale Dominique H. Damico, Berwyn, Pennsylvania, 484-325-0380

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EDITOR'S NOTE What an exciting time it is to be an Amateur! The amateur divisions, the backbone of the sport, are more popular and have more options and finals than ever. Amateurs are competing at the highest level everywhere from USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals (KY) to the Zoetis Million Dollar Grand Prix at HITS Saugerties (NY). In their own classes, Adult and Amateur Medals command crowds, especially in California, and Capital Challenge is heating up for the most exciting Equitation Finals yet. The 33 Amateur Owner Division is perhaps the most popular division that USEF and USHJA have supported in recent years. Amateur Handler classes have attracted significant competition from The Devon Horse Show (PA) to both the East and West Coast Sallie B. Wheeler Championships. USHJA Adult Jumper Championships fielded many teams to compete at Regional Championships to compete all over the country. When it comes to starting young horses, being at the top of your game, or older horses coming back down, there are no better classes than the Amateur classes to showcase you horses talent, get mileage for yourself and your horse, and enjoy your successes. As you read this issue, celebrate with The Plaid Horse the great and hardworking amateurs, the horses that love them, and the trainers and competitions that support them!

FEATURES:Pg. 10 TPH ContributorsPg. 12 TPH InternsPg. 14 HITS ChampionshipsPg. 20 WIHS MemoriesPg. 28 Eirin BruheimPg. 32 Brown is the New BlackPg. 35 WEGPg. 36 Caitlin BoylePg. 52 LegalitiesPg. 56 Stress InducersPg. 60 Reinstating the AmateurPg. 66 Show Ring Then & NowPg. 70 On the Cover: Laura OwensPg. 82 Southeast Medal FinalsPg. 84 Ask Kimball

CONTACT THE PLAID HORSE WRITE: Piper Klemm, Ph.D., 14 Mechanic Street, Canton, New York 13617

CALL: 541-905-0192

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: theplaidhorse.com

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/theplaidhorsemag

TWITTER: twitter.com/plaidhorsemag @plaidhorsemag

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/theplaidhorsemag @theplaidhorsemag

October 2014

ON THE COVER: LAURA OWENS AND LALTA VIDA COMPETE IN THE

ARIAT NATIONAL ADULT MEDAL AT THE SONOMA HORSE PARK.

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PIPER KLEMM AND ADDI MEYER AT USEF PONY FINALS IN LEXINGTON,

KENTUCKY. PHOTO C. ADAM HILL.


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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

KIMBALL WILLSON, of La Jolla, CA, is an amateur rider and owner of The Equestrian Health Coach where she guides riders on diet and lifestyle improvements so they can feel energized to ride their best.

EIRIN BRUHEIM, of Tomball, TX, is an amateur rider representing Norway. Eirin is currently training a group of young grand prix mounts with the assistance of Olympian Norman Dello Joio, and is based at her familys Nordic Lights Farm.

MARIA DONOVAN, of Boston, MA, can usually be found ringside with her cameras at shows throughout the Northeast. She shoots most riding shots digitally, but prefers working with film for everything else. Her favorite photography subjects include mudknots, turned-in ears, plain bays, and cranky mares.

HEIDI KEENEY, of Troy, NY, has a background in art and works in Information Technology. You might see her with her camera at equine events in the Northeast. In equine photography three of her favorite things come together art, technology and horses.

LAUREN FISHER, of Wellington, FL, is an equestrian writer and photographer. While attending Elon University (NC), she served as captain of their IHSA team, graduating in 2007. Lauren has promoted major international events through her work at Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

JULIETTE BEAUCHAMP, of Madison, VA, is a photographer of both horses and humans. She is also a Licensed Veterinary Technician and owns and manages Turtle Mountain Farm, a small breeding and boarding operation.

ROBIN TRUPP is a partner maintaining a full-time litigation practice in the Tampa and West Palm Beach offices of Greenspoon Marder. He also competed in show jumping for many years, including in the American Gold Cup and the American Invitational.

CATHY PENROD, of Gilberts, IL, is a professional Performance Specialist with 34 years of knowledge of the equestrian world and has more than 19 years of leadership, mentoring and coaching experience.


HIDDEN HOLLOW

Hidden Hollow Farm Upperville, VA 301-980-4305 www.hidden-hollow.com Trainer: Ginny Edwards Assistant: Amanda Penick

Quality Horses Bought, Sold and Trained.

AND WE DANCEDOwner: Shelley HobsonTrainer: Terry Stephens

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AHAOwner: Barbara Goldberg

Trainer: Heather IrvineThanks to Val Renihan

GAME PLANOwner: Beth BaileyTrainer: Lynn Jayne

Photo Andrew Ryback

FRIDAY NIGHTOwner: KAR LLC & Kate Ross

Trainer: Val Renihan Photo Shawn McMillen Photography

HOMESTEADOwner: Kaitlyn Van KonynenburgTrainer: Carleton & Traci Brooks

Thanks to Catherine Thompson

Congratulates

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OUR INTERNS

MORGAN BULLOCK 17, of Mt. Ulla, NC, is a senior in high school and is a working student for Daniel and Cathy Geitner. She aspires to ride for a NCAA riding team and get a degree in marketing and agriculture. @bullockmorgan

EMMA DUBINSKY, 15, of St. Louis, MO, is a Sophomore at John Burroughs School. She currently competes in the equitation and jumpers on her horse Wonderland. @emma_dubs

DOMINIQUE GONZALEZ, 15, of Ocala, FL, is a sophomore in high school and is the daughter of trainer Terry Gonzalez. She rides at TM Hills Farm International and is currently showing in the equitation, hunters and jumpers, and working toward Maclay Finals in 2015. @dominique4142

LIBBY POLLOCK, 18, of Lincoln, NE, is a rising senior in high school. She takes online classes to travel to horse shows and currently competes in the Equitation on her horse Mack Blue. @lpollock @lpollockphotography

IVEY ROTH, 15, of Isle of Palms, SC, is a sophomore in high school. She currently competes in the hunters in local shows on the PSJ circuit. @ivey_roth

LILY SANCHEZ, 20, of Crown Point, IN, is an incoming Junior at Purdue University studying Animal Science and Pre-veterinary medicine. She works as a groom over the summers and does the Adult Jumpers with her Thoroughbred Luxery Defined. @lily27caddy

CARLY NASZNIC, 16, of North Kingstown, RI, is a junior in high school. She currently competes in the equitation and hunters on her horse What A Star. She also has a passion for taking equine photos and to someday become a professional photographer. @carlygirl123 @carlynasznicphotography

KERRY WHITE, 18, of Richmond, RI, graduated from high school and is now pursuing a career in photography. She goes to a lot of horse shows to groom and take pictures! She plans to some day be a professional photographer. @kerrywhitephotography


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HITS Championship Weekend: Saugerties, New York

1. Morgan Ward in the New York Equitation Championship. 2 & 6. Candice King and Kismet 50 were brilliant in the Zoetis Million Dollar Grand Prix. 3 & 7. Jonathan McCrea and Aristotles V finished 20th in the Zoetis Million. 4. Walking back from the $250,000 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix. 5. Jenny Jones still has perfect equitation, winning the New York Equitation Championship. 8. Million Dollar veteran Chianto has yet another placing in the money with John Pearce this time 14th. 9, 10, & 11. Todd Minikus and Quality Girl improved on their 2nd place finish in 2013 to claim the 2014 Zoetis Million Dollar Grand Prix.

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12. Brenda Perkovich and Dante-B were 5th Individually in the USHJA Adult Jumper Regional Championships. 13. Katie Haefner had brilliant rounds on Bentley in the $250,000 Platinum Performance Hunter Prix. 14. Maria Donovan hard at work for The Plaid Horse. 15. Beautiful natural jumps encouraged the feeling of a hunt field in the outside course at HITS Saugerties. 16. Beautiful ribbons in all the hunter prix classes look fabulous headed back to the barn. 17. Charlene Graham and jumped all clear rounds for Zone V for Team Silver at the USHJA Adult Jumper Regional Championships. PHOTOS MARIA DONOVAN, HEIDI KEENEY, AND PIPER KLEMM.

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Photo Shawn McMillen Photography.

Emily Elek 920-889-0028 [email protected], Wisconsin www.proequest.com/emily-elek

Stonewall Farm Wishes Best of Luck to Elizabeth Woods and Hidden Springs Woodstar at Indoors


Stonewall Farm & the Woods family Congratulate the Rizvi Family on the Purchase of No Drama

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Stonewall Farm Congratulates

Stonewall Stratus and Lexi MillerWinners, WHJA Pony Medal Finals

Congratulations to Brooke Werthman on the lease of Little Miss Echo!

Congratulations to Donny Pritzker on the lease of Royal Seven!

Congratulations to Lily Forney on the Lease of Kaptin Krunch!

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Past Amateur Champions Share Their Memories of the Washington International Horse Show

BY LAUREN FISHER

The Washington International Horse Show returns to Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. on October 21-26, 2014, for an exciting week of world-class equestrian competition in the heart of our nations capital. The countrys leading metropolitan indoor horse show, WIHS hosts more than 500 horses each year participating in show jumping, hunter, and equitation competition during its six-day event. As WIHS celebrates its 56th year, some of the shows past amateur champions shared their favorite memories with some very special horses.

Betty Oare: Warrenton, VAAmateur-Owner Hunter Champion1983: Spirit of Song EMO Stables1984: Spirit of Song EMO Stables2002: Estrella - Mr. & Mrs. Ernest M. Oare

I actually have been going to the Washington International Horse Show ever since the year it started. I started there as a junior, and I have ridden professionally and have now been an amateur for thirty-some years. As a junior in 1958, the year the horse show began, I was able to win the Virginia Horse Shows Association Medal and that was pretty exciting. I think so much of the Washington International Horse Show. It is a great event. I have attended or judged or showed there ever since it has been

held. It is a great group that works on Washington, and I have had some wonderful memories there. The most memorable WIHS of all would have been with Estrella in 2002. I broke my leg rather badly that year, and it was sort of down to the last minute whether I would be able to show. I was cleared just a couple weeks before the

Betty Oare and Estrella. Photo Diana DeRosaPhoto Alden Corrigan


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Your Next Show AcceoryDeco Ponyshow started, and I was able to get on some horses and get fit enough to get in there. We did go and we did win the older amateur-owner championship that year. She was a really special horse for me. Sandy Ferrell had ridden her there as well in the Regular Working Hunters and Sandy and my brother, Bucky Reynolds, trained her. That was as memorable a year as I can think of. I also won two times with Spirit of Song in 1983 and 1984. That was when WIHS was at the Capital Centre. He was four years old when I won that with him the first time. That was exciting. That was very memorable and that was a long time ago. Its a long history and you get older by the moment, but it was so much fun.

Tracey Weinberg: Lovettsville, VAAmateur-Owner Hunter Champion 1997: Adam Tracey Weinberg (tied with Big River Christina Simeone)

Amateur-Owner Jumper Champion 2007: Larone Tracey Weinberg2010: Larone Tracey Weinberg & Weinberg Brokerage Group

My favorite memory would be when I was grand champion with a horse named Adam. I had just purchased him 10 days prior to Washington. I had tried him at Capital Challenge and bought him. I had only jumped a couple of jumps in the schooling area and went right to Washington having never jumped a course. I was out of town for business in Chicago. I shipped in early and schooled and then I won the first two classes and ended up champion and then grand champion. My other favorite memory was my first jumper championship when I switched over to the jumpers on my horse Larone. I was working with the horse show at the time and I had gotten some people to sponsor that division, and then I ended up winning the championship. That was very special because those sponsors

Tracey Weinberg and Larone. Photo Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

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ended up presenting to me. I won a lot with Larone. He was definitely my horse of a lifetime. He was the perfect horse for Washington because he was always on his game. I could get him out between classes and just walk around the schooling area and know he would give me his all. He didnt need a lot of preparation. It was bittersweet when I decided to retire Larone two years ago and the last class I ever showed him in was at Washington in the stake. I cried all the way around the course. I just remember bawling my eyes out because I knew that was his last competition, and I wanted that to be where he retired. It is such a special venue. It is always so wonderful to be at center of the city in a coliseum like that with amazing crowds.

Jane (Womble) Gaston: The Plains, VAAmateur-Owner Hunter Champion 1976: Henry the Hawk Miss Jane E. Womble1977: Henry the Hawk Miss Jane E. Womble

That was during the time at the Capital Centre, and he was a horse that I had bought from Sallie and Kenny Wheeler when he was a Second Year horse. I trained with them then. I showed him in the Amateurs and the Green Conformation, and then the following year I was doing the Regular Conformation and the Amateur Working Hunter. He might have even been champ in the Regular Conformation too. He was always a fun horse. He was just really sweet and a super jumper. He was a delight to deal with anywhere you took him. One of the beauties about Henry was that he was a nice, quiet, easy-going horse, and you didnt have to worry about preparation as much as you did with some horses. He was just fine hopping around in a 50 area as much as a 200 long ring. He was a great horse to have. The second year I had him, he won a lot of classes at Washington, not just in the amateurs. He was awfully good that year. He was kind of in his own that year, so it was really nice. I loved it when the show was at the Armory. I have great memories of the Armory because that was a wonderful ring to ride in. I had Sign the Card, who was champion there in the amateurs, and she was just a phenomenal animal in whatever division she showed in. Then Third of August came right behind her and was really good. I had multiple horses that went to the Armory and they were different types of horses, but every one of them liked it there.

Jane with Henry the Hawk.


Danielle Torano: Fort Lauderdale, FLAmateur-Owner Hunter Champion1998: Classic Importer Danielle Torano2000: Classic Importer - Danielle Torano2001: Classic Importer - Danielle Torano

Indoors was always a much more intense feeling, especially at Washington. The

atmosphere always feels so special being right in the city. It was nerve-wracking, but really nice to be able to win there. There was the added pressure of the small schooling area, which makes it tricky, but he was he was always good. He was pretty straight forward.I was very lucky to have him. He was one of my horses of a lifetime for sure. He just was so perfect. He always wanted to do well, and he had a special presence to him too. I think having the attitude he had helped, knowing that he was always ready to do his best at those big venues. It made it fun and very rewarding to go there and win. He was pretty special. I dont know if I will ever have another horse you can depend on like that. He was 16 when we got him. He had done a ton. He had gotten injured, and they tried to bring him back. Once we got him they said he would never be sound, but we took amazing care of him. When you watched him you never would have thought he would stay sound, but I think a lot of it had to do with the horse having so much heart. It was pretty amazing. He loved doing it, and he wanted to do it. He was 21 when I showed him the last time. He was champion three years at Harrisburg, three years at Devon, and three years at Washington.

Robert Kraut: Malvern, PAJunior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Champion 1982: Summer Wishes Stephen Kraut Stables1994: Lego Robert Kraut (tied with Avalon Rachel Benoit Baker, Dos Equis Court Lin Frae Farm, Paul Harvey John Bartko)

The first time I ever showed there was my first time going out East. Im from Wisconsin, and I went to do Harrisburg, Washington and then New York. Those were the three big indoor shows then, and that was the biggest thing of the year if you were a rider. They were super important shows and just to go there and compete and do well made you keep coming back for more. The first year I went to Washington, I had a horse named Summer Wishes. She was a little Quarter Horse mare, and she was my first jumper. Back then they had two classes in one day and then the third class was the next day. I won the first two classes in one day. That is definitely my best memory of Washington. For me it was special because you had all of the famous riders

Alden Corrigan

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there watching you. You had Michael Matz, George Morris, all the great peers from my era there watching and to ride with all the best in the country and to do well, that was a lot of fun for me. I was young then. I was a junior. I also showed a horse named Lego as an amateur and he was a great horse. Lego was a famous horse before I had him, and he was always competitive.

Martha Lindner: Cincinnati, OHAmateur-Owner Hunter Champion:1982: Hoodwink Mr. & Mrs. Carl H. Lindner, Jr.

I started showing at Washington as an amateur in the mid 70s. My third year qualifying there was the first year that I showed Hoodwink and I won a few ribbons, but nothing great. The next year I was pregnant with my daughter. In 1982 I had my daughter, who is now 33, and she went to all of the horse shows with me. I showed everywhere that year, and Hoodwink was champion a lot. That year was kind of my year, and then I found out in August that I was pregnant with my second child. I was actually about three months pregnant when I was champion at Washington that year. Hoodwink was just unbelievable. He won two classes over fences. The first two, I think. He was just ready to win. He was calm. He was spooky by nature, so we always had to make sure the spook was out when he went in the ring. That was really the big year. After that I sold him. The girl who bought him won a ton too in the amateurs. He was a great horse. I bought him from Rodney Jenkins, and he was green and very spooky, but he was an incredible jumper, a beautiful gray. I stopped showing after that to focus on my family and then my daughter started riding and I got other horses, but Hoodwink was for sure my best horse.

Visit www.wihs.org for more information and to buy tickets for this years Washington International Horse Show, and dont forget to like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram at @wihs!


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Eirin Bruheim: Bringing Along Young Talent Bringing along a young horse is not an easy task, even for a professional, but amateur rider Eirin Bruheim of Norway has taken on the task of putting together a young string as she aims for the highest levels of the sport. Eirin took some time to walk us through her decision, as well as the risks and rewards of working with young talent. Are they willing to try, even though things can be less than ideal at times? That is always the first question I ask myself when I am trying new horses as an amateur. I would like to turn professional eventually, but I am currently trying to balance getting my masters in International Business with trying to improve my skills in the ring. I think the biggest motivation toward getting a couple of younger horses in my string was price. Price-wise you can get a lot more talent and possibility in a younger horse than you can in a made horse. Obviously when trying horses there are a lot of things you look for, but two of the main things that I am looking for are horses that can jump in a nice style and horses that make you feel. It really boils down to how much the horse is willing to try. I think that is the most important quality I look for in any horse that I am going to ride. When I started my newest horse NLF Favorite (Rita) she had done one 2* show and a young horse show, so she had jumped up to 1.45m once or twice, but, as far as showing, she had absolutely no mileage. There was so much raw potential there that it was more than worth getting her. My other young horse, Newsflash, was in some really great programs as a young horse so his rideability was great, but mentally he didnt quite mature as fast as other horses. There was a lot of insecurity there when I first got him. With him, I got a ton of scope and good rideability, but a horse that maturity wise wasnt as advanced


as some other horses could be. All of the raw stuff you need in a horse was present in both of them, but they just needed a ton of mileage and some really confident rides to build their own confidence and have them know that they too could go out and jump these big courses no problem. I train with Norman Dello Joio when I am on the road showing, but on a day-to-day basis all of my horses training is my responsibility. I ride them everyday, and I am there everyday to make sure their fitness is right where it needs to be. Norman is there to really guide me when I dont know how to proceed. If I am wondering why my horse is doing this, or what should I do, I just call Norman. He gives me a lot of information to work with. He is guiding me in this whole process. There is a lot of pressure to not ruin all of the potential these horses have, which can be extremely nerve racking at times. As an amateur, the hardest issue to deal with is putting my ambitions on the back burner. I certainly want to climb the divisions, but I know its not always the best option for my horses. At the end of the day, I have to focus on what these horses really need as far developing their abilities and talent. When you have a bad day or a bad show with a young horse, you really need to stay focused mentally as well. You should try to remove yourself from the situation and realize that your last ride does not define your riding in general, and everybody can have a bad day. Take a look back at the course, not to criticize what happened but to find out what you could have done to improve the situation or to avoid it. Then, when you kind of pinpoint what your issue is or what the issue your horses has, you have some course of action to fix that. There are a lot of times when riding young horses can be a little frustrating, but when I go out into the ring and feel like the horses went really well and every step around the ring they did exactly what I needed, those are some of the good moments. It is rewarding to have these young horses. You get to see how all of your effort and what youre doing with these horses pans out in the ring. When it goes well, you feel accomplished, and that is so incredibly rewarding. It makes everything worth it, and it makes me confident that we will be able to achieve all of our goals someday.

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In recent months a shift has occurred within equestrian fashion, causing riders to forsake the classic black and tan color palettes of the past,

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theplaidhorse.com October 2014 35 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games1. 2.

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Normandy, France, September 2014. 1 & 4. Beezie Madden and Cortes C Beezie was Individual Bronze and Cortes C was the best horse in the world, going clear with all 4 riders in the Final Four. 2. Team USA won the Bronze Medal. 3 & 8. Lucy Davis and Barron had a successful first WEG. 5. Jeroen Dubbeldamand Zenith of The Netherlands won the Individual Gold Medal. 6. The jumps were out of this world. 7. McLain Ward and Rothchild were 5th Individually and produced many clear rounds for Team USA. PHOTOS ERIN GILMORE.

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Caitlin Boyles Mastery of the Equitation Ring Heads to IndoorsWhen you think about the Equitation stars of 2014, one name rolls off everyones tongue first Caitlin Boyle. Just recently, she bested a field of 89 riders for the Midwest Maclay Regional title. She won the Hunterdon Cup at Junior Hunter Finals East. She was the R.W. Mutch Equitation Champion at The Devon Horse Show. She is ready to shine at Indoors.

To the casual passing spectator, Caitlin might seem like an overnight success on a fairy tale ride. While leasing only a single horse and as a working student at Heritage Farm, she has taken on the sports biggest junior names with strings of successful horses behind them. But her success is the culmination of many years of hard work, perfecting her style with top trainers, and riding everything that comes her way. I might not even get a fraction of the time in the show ring as riders with a string of horses do, but I work as hard as I can at home, which I hope pays off, and I take every opportunity to get in the show ring I can get. Going into her third and final year of equitation finals with Loredo, a horse she leases from Micaela Kennedy, Caitlin feels confident in tackling the tests that will be asked of her at USEF Medal Finals at The Pennsylvania National Horse Show, ASPCA/Maclay Finals

at The National Horse Show, and the Washington International Horse Show Junior Medal. She explains, I know how he goes and what he prefers and needs. For testing purposes the counter canter, the trot jump, the questions I know what to expect from him. I know how to help him if something is difficult. Along with the bond and connection Caitlin has with Loredo, she will also likely need to be able to jump on an unfamiliar horse at a moments notice and have the same result. The Top 10 riders switch horses every year at WIHS, which in 2013 was Caitlins first time switching horses on the national stage. She finished 4th and used that experience to help her

when she was called on top at this years Hunterdon Cup. While the USEF Medal at the Pennsylvania National has not required riders to swap mounts in the last couple years, Caitlin is definitely prepared for the possibility this year. She said, It is different when you are at home and get on a new horse and go because there is no pressure, no ones watching you, and no ones judging you. Being on your own and without a trainer is an aspect that really comes into play when switching horses in the ring. The Hunterdon Cup was very good practice there was a lot of pressure, a lot of people watching, and you only got

Caitlin and Loredo have a long history of teamwork going into fall equitation finals.


Caitlin Boyle and Clearway, Ronnie Mutch Equitation Champions at The Devon Horse Show (Devon, Pennsylvania), 2014.

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Caitlin and Loredo show classic style to win the Hunterdon Cup at Junior Hunter Finals East.


two minutes. Caitlin is in her last junior year and is finishing high school online at Laurel Springs Online School this December. She plans to focus on horses until she begins college next September and will remain an Amateur when she ages out to keep her college riding eligibility. Her year this year has taken some unexpected turns, however, and Caitlin bounces back each time better and more determined than ever. When presented the opportunity to ride the equitation superstar Clearway (of Lillie Keenan fame, then owned by Heritage Farm), Caitlins riding soared and the pair won the prestigious Ronnie Mutch Equitation Championship at Devon together. Their partnership seemed on track for a brilliant future when Clearway was sold. Caitlin said, Winning at Devon was amazing because I never thought I would be in that position. When Tori [Colvin] had Clearway, it was a little strange at first because I thought I would be showing him at Finals, and I was unsure switching back to my own horse. I had felt so confident on Clearway, but when I went back to the Hunterdon Cup it reminded me that I have all of that confidence on Loredo now. That helped me a lot at the Hunterdon Cup. Caitlin trains with her father, Pat Boyle (manager of Showplace shows), Freddie and Jodi Vazquez of Messenger Hill Farm, and Andre Dignelli, Patricia Griffith, and the entire Heritage Farm Team. Caitlin is so grateful for the guidance she has received coming up in the industry. She said, The best advice I have ever had is that when you get nervous or when the course is challenging is that you need to ride forward and get the job done. Everyone

is so supportive at home and on the road. I couldnt be more thankful for that. My dad comes to every big horse show. Caitlin has qualified every year for ASPCA/Maclay Finals every year since she was 13, when she started in the Equitation. My first year I didnt have a very good look on a horse or that style and position that is looked for in the Equitation. I didnt get many blue ribbons my first or second year, but I really watched the people who were winning then, mainly the Tyrees and McArdles, and worked to learn to ride like they were. It progressed slowly and I kept working and working at it, and I really didnt win big classes until WEF last year. Ever since then, Ive ridden better and better and I hope this year will finish up well! Caitlin met Loredo in 2011 when she borrowed him to place 3rd at the ASPCA/Maclay Midwest Regional Qualifier. She started leasing him in 2012 and they have enjoyed more and more success as they have gotten to know each other better. Loredo started his career as a grand prix mount for Wilhelm Genn and after some success in Midwest grand prix classes, started to look for his ideal job a few holes down. Since meeting Caitlin, he has excelled in his second career as an Equitation horse, with the occasional hunter or jumper class for practice. This fall, in addition to Loredo, she is leasing a horse for USEF Talent Search Finals East and has been training hard with him as well, with a special focus on the gymnastics phase. With the polish and perfection we have seen from her all year, we look forward to Caitlin Boyle riding forward and getting the job done at all four major Equitation Finals this year.

Caitlins father Pat Boyle looks on as Clearway walks out of the ring at The Devon Horse Show.

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2014R.W. Much Equitation Champion, Devon - Clearway1st, ASPCA Maclay, Devon - Clearway1st Platinum Performance/USEF Talent Search, Devon- Clearway1st, Hunterdon Cup Perpetual Trophy - Loredo (Loredo won Best Equitation Horse)1st, ASPCA/Maclay Regional Qualifier, MidWest (out of 89) - Loredo1st Overall, WIHS, Old Salem Farm May I & II - Clearway1st, Showplace Equitation Championships at Showplace Spring Spectacular Final - Loredo1st Overall, WIHS Medal, Brandywine Valley Summer Series I & II - Loredo1st Overall, WIHS Medal, HITS on the Hudson V - Loredo1st, IHJA Junior Medal Finals at Showplace Fall Classic - Loredo1st, M&S Junior Medal Finals at Showplace Fall Classic - Loredo 2nd USEF Pessoa Hunt Seat Medal at Devon - Clearway2nd WIHS Medal Class at Devon - ClearwayWinner and Consistent Top Finisher, WIHS Medal at WEF - Clearway Winner of the Honey Craven Perpetual Trophy at Devon (Highest Score Award)2013Consistent Winner & Top Finisher, ASPCA/Maclay and WIHS Medals at WEF - LoredoTop Four Ribbons in every equitation class at Devon - Loredo1st, IHJA Junior Medal Finals at Showplace Fall Classic - Loredo1st, M&S Junior Medal Finals at Showplace Fall Classic - Loredo1st Zone V Horsemanship Equitation Championships5th, ASPCA/Maclay Regional Championship, MidWest - Loredo11th (out of 229) PESSOA/US Hunt Seat Medal Finals - Loredo 4th Overall, WIHS Jr Equitation Finals - Loredo11th ASPCA Maclay Finals - Loredo

Caitlyn Boyles Show Highlights:Above: Caitlin Boyle and Loredo competed in the largest field ever in a ASPCA/Maclay Regional 89 riders to take the Midwest Regional Title in September 2014. Pictured are trainers Pat Boyle, Patricia Griffith of Heritage Farm, Freddie Vazquez, Dottie Bear, Jodi Vazquez, and Kim Gardiner.

Left: Some highlights of the last two years for Caitlin Boyle with Loredo and Clearway IHJA Medal Finals Champion 2013 & 2014, Hunterdon Cup Champion 2014, M&S Junior Medal Finals Champion 2013 & 2014, and Ronnie Mutch Champion at Devon.

Photos Andrew Ryback Photography, The Book, Shawn McMillen Photography, and Piper Klemm.

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Congratulates

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A special thanks to Andre Dignelli for all your support along with all of team

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Non-Compete Contracts: Why Trainers and Veterinarians Need Them Now by Robin Trupp In todays horse world, you regularly hear the story of the assistant trainer who has struck out on his or her own by taking valuable customers from the head trainer that showed them the ropes. In the veterinary world, it is the same story when the assistant veterinarian goes out on their own, taking clients with them, after they have worked for years learning the business under the tutelage of the veterinarian. Often, attorneys are approached after the damage has already been done. There is a solution, but the solution requires legal assistance. A trainer or veterinarian can work with a lawyer to prevent the issue before it happens by creating a non-compete contract with non-disclosure and covenant not to solicit agreements. Typically with cases involving covenants not to compete, the courts first want to be sure that it is not against public health, safety and welfare, and that the covenant is not unreasonable as to time and geographic location. The situation with an assistant trainer or an assistant veterinarian taking customers from their employer calls for a combination of concepts. The first thing to keep in mind is that any information that would be treated as confidential such as billing records, contact information, etc. collected by the employee is considered to be confidential and not easily attainable. It is appropriate to have an agreement drafted that would include provisions that defines the information that would be considered confidential. The second part of the equation should be a provision that addresses the non-compete nature of the arrangement. In more general terms, this means that the assistant

could not engage in a competing business within a specific geographic and time limitation. Each state has interpretations as to what is reasonable. In the horse industry, the veterinarian clinic or the trainer typically shows in multiple states and should include the specific locations, shows or events frequented annually. The last component would be a covenant not to solicit, which in plain words means the assistant cannot contact established or potential customers.

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The provision would require that during the restrictive period he or she would not directly, indirectly, or through any affiliate manner or capacity induce, entice or attempt to induce or entice any customers to leave the services of the employer. Furthermore, the provision should state that the assistant would take no other actions intended to damage or impair any relationship between the employer and the customer or potential customer or client. One suggestion regarding the verbiage of this provision would be to include any customers or clients that the employer

has provided services to within the 12 months prior to the execution of the agreement and any additional customers or clients introduced to the assistant during the term of the agreement. The employer would include a list of the actual and potential customers, consultants and suppliers. There would be a covenant regarding non-disclosure of trade secrets and confidential information and a provision regarding third party information. When the agreement is drafted, there should also be an enforcement and remedies provision of the agreement. Typically in most states, such an agreement would also require an assignment and binding effect so that the employer could assign these covenants. Lastly, there should be appropriate language in regard to the choice of law, waiver of jury trial and provision for award of attorneys fees. These agreements can be very complicated with many stipulations to address based on current state laws. These agreements are well worth the time and the effort because no matter how much you trust the person working with you, things can go wrong down the road. No one wants to be an assistant forever!


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BY CATHY PENROD

Day by day, hour by hour, moment by moment, stress influencers can sneak upon us and affect us from performing to our true potential, in the show ring, schooling and/or life in general. We all have them but with awareness and how we approach each situation, these influencers can be the game changer and give us a competitive edge. Mental, emotional, physical, social, spiritual and environmental stress factors influence performance and vary from person to person, and sometimes, from situation to situation. When we feel stress (tension/anxiety) and/or when we feel a lack of engagement, your energy is drained and your potential for high performance is decreased. Energy is defined as how present we are in the moment. The way we respond to anything we are about to do, or the way we approach a situation or a set of circumstances, is unique to each and every one of us. What doesnt affect our energy in one situation may detract from it in another. Any time we are not performing to the best of our ability, something is blocking our energy and most likely a mental, emotional, physical, social, spiritual or environmental factor is holding us back. When all of these factors are ideal, we have our best chance for peak performance. By learning the individual

What Stress Influencers are Affecting You from Performing to Your True Potential?

stress factors, determining which factor affect us and how, and by exploring ways to remove the effects of the detractors we have gained a secret weapon in the quest for high performance. There are six main kinds of stress influencers that effect performance and riding to our true potential. These six types of stressors are:

MENTAL STRESS occurs when we multi-task, stretch yourself too thin or have conflicting demands, or when a task either bores us or is too challenging.

EMOTIONAL STRESS occurs when we feel as if our needs, desires, or expectations are not being met, or when we encounter a situation that we dont understand or dont know how to navigate, or when we do not know how to express emotions effectively.

PHYSICAL STRESS occurs when our body is not able to function in an optimal manner, or in the manner to which we are accustomed.

SOCIAL STRESS occurs when social conditions (the people around you) arent optimal for us.

SPIRITUAL STRESS occurs when whatever we are doing causes us to question our values, purpose, goals, connection, or beliefs.

ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS occurs when we encounter an environment/condition that we believe prevents us from functioning in an optimal manner.

Here is an example of an environmental stress influence and of a horse show taking place in a warm, humid, climate. Rider A dislikes the heat, and believes that she doesnt ride well in those conditions. Rider B grew up in the south and is quite used to and likes heat and humidity. Which one of these riders is more likely to ride to the maximum of their current ability in the show? All


other factors being equal, its almost certain that Rider B will tap into more of her capacity. The heat and humidity detracted from Rider As energy, and didnt affect Riders Bs energy. Why? The heat and humidity caused her anxiety and stress due to her assumption that she wouldnt ride well. That assumption most likely led to a decrease in engagement and an increase in stress - after all, shes less likely to enjoy riding in conditions that dont suit her and perhaps history tells her shes at a disadvantage. Rider B, on the other hand, didnt have the same assumption and thus didnt experience stress and a depletion of energy, accordingly. Now, suppose Rider A being aware of her performance influencer debunked her assumption, and devised strategies to help her keep her energy high during hot and humid rides. Her engagement would increase and her stress would decrease - thus giving him a much better chance of performing well. What stress influencers are affecting your performance? What future strategies can be developed for optimal performance? The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another - William James Best of luck to all as the show season comes to an end and finals begin.

Kent Farrington and Voyeur compete for Team USA at the World Equestrian Games in Normandy,

France, in September. Photo Erin Gilmore.

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The DFG riders are an exceptional group of people who I have come to love, and every single person is incredibly talented and works hard to achieve their goals. They take excellent care of their horses and practice hard, and it pays off in the show ring. PH Intern Morgan Bullock,

working student at DFG Stables

The Amateur Issue Barn Highlight: Meet the Team at Daniel & Cathy Geitners DFG Stables


Daniel Geitner and Checklist at Hunter Derby Finals / Liz Tarumianz and Dedicated / Anna Wells Sharp and Three Olives in an Atlanta downpour / Mama Alexis Reece and Springsteen / Booth Parker and her super mare, Colline Z / Cathy Geitner training at Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show / Kaitlin Porath and O.C. / Liz Porath and Madrid DAuvrey / Cat Stumberg having a blast on her Friller / Mandy Lynch on her favorite, Hollister / Annie Goodwin schooling at home / Daniel Berrio in good form / Katie Dawson and Eamon / Aley Russell on her Invictus / Brittany Knox and Murano / Megan Godard riding Carolyn Donahues Silent Movie / Alison Mills and Renoir Z / Kathryn Jarriel and Ava / Janel Prescott and Brilliance / Page Flournoy and Kim Quinn / Our favorite and the master, Raoul Mora / Pony kids Lilly Geitner, Ella Tarumianz, and Ivy Hair / Myself riding my favorite, Platina. PHOTOS COURTESY MORGAN BULLOCK.

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BY JULIETTE BEAUCHAMP

While many juniors and amateur riders dream of one day turning professional, there are a fair number of professional riders who desire to reinstate their amateur status. There are benefits to reinstating amateurship, and many different reasons riders may decide to pursue this option. For some, an accident or injury can make them reevaluate their riding goals. Elizabeth Landes, of Dayton, Virginia, was only twenty-two when a bad fall caused serious injury and a rethinking of her

Reinstating Your Amateur Status

Amateurs have many more class options available to compete in than Professionals the $250,000 Hunter Prix Finals at HITS Saugerties is a good example. Amateur rider Kimberly Maloomian and Urlala won this class in September 2014. Photo Maria Donovan.


ambitions. My neurosurgeon told me that I was lucky I didnt end up paralyzed or with brain damage and that really hit me hard. Aside from the physical damage, the fall really hurt my confidence. I was

always the bravest and most confident rider, but after the fall I became extremely cautious and somewhat of a chicken. Elizabeths family owns Windswept Stables, the home of sire Empires Power, and she had been breaking and training young ponies for years. Now, shes glad to have no one but herself to please; she currently shows in the Pre-Adults with her leased TB, Just Jeff. For Emily Pope, of Lauderdale, MN, turning pro made sense when she was offered sponsorship opportunities. Even though she did not have a training business or clients, Emily didnt want to be in any violation of the rules. She reinstated her status in March, 2014 and now shows in the open jumpers and Grand Prix classes. Emily made her decision to reinstate because, at this point in my life, I am working and hoping to start graduate school within the next few years, and so felt that I needed to focus on my academic career and on my horse. There has been much discussion and debate regarding the line between amateur and professional, and, like Emily, many riders opt to err on the side of caution when declaring their status. Mary Laing, of Culpeper, VA bred and trained hunter ponies as a professional for almost ten years, although she rarely showed in the professional divisions. I mostly sat on

Although an internationally competitive rider, Catherine Tyrees amateur status allows her to compete in classes such as the $250,000 Junior/Amateur Jumper Finals at HITS Saugerties, where she place 3rd in September. Photo Maria Donovan.

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In the jumper ring, Amateurs have many more championships and steps up the ladder. Molly Strueve and Orichdee Milody won the USHJA Adult Jumper Regional Championship Gold Medal at HITS Saugerties in September. Photo Maria Donovan.

young green or unbroken ponies for people and was never someone who rode with enough finesse to show at the upper levels against the pros! Once she had a talented personal horse however, she desired more show opportunities for herself. Mary reinstated her amateur status earlier in 2014 and currently shows Sunsets Rockafella (a homebred, overgrown Welsh cross) in the Pre-Adults. The USEF has a few simple guidelines for those riders who wish to reinstate their amateur status. Firstly, riders must abstain from any and all professional activities for at least a year prior to filing a request for reinstatement. This includes giving riding lessons for any kind of remuneration, being paid for training rides, etc. Next, riders must file several documents, including statements of professional activities (basically, what you did as a professional and, if applicable, what you now do to replace that income), as well as statements of amateurship by at least two senior USEF members. The applicant must also submit a notarized, written request for reinstatement by the rider along with a$50 filing fee. Riders may not show as amateurs until the written request for reinstatement has been approved and amateur membership granted. While the process may take some time (generally 3-5 weeks once the complete request form has been submitted) and paperwork, most riders agree that it is fair and relatively simple. For those who would like more information on the reinstatement process, visit the USEFs website. The USEF also posts a monthly list of riders whose amateur status has been reinstated.


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Hunter/Jumper: Then and Now

Sarah Rubenstein and Debonair, an OTTB, in the AHSA medal at Ridgewood Farm in 1986. Photo Courtesy of Sarah Rubenstein.

Don Stewarts Dress Balou, ridden to the win in the $500,000 Diamond Mills Hunter Prix Finals at HITS Saugerties in September, is the classic warmblood look typically seen in the hunter divisions today. Photo Piper Klemm.

By Plaid Horse Intern Emma Dubinsky

There is no disputing that hunter-jumper shows look different than they did thirty years ago. Attire is more technical, classes are more numerous, and horses look different than they did in the past. But looks can be deceiving. Adults competing today who also showed as kids see many similarities between the horse show world then and now. Both Amy Dodds, of St. Louis, MO, and Laura Hauser, of Cleveland, OH note that the major finals and qualifying competitions enjoy the same prestige today they did years ago. Both riders agree that the level of competition at these events is just as hard, and that finals such as the ASPCA Maclay and the USEF Medal are just as hard to qualify for as they were years ago. As Amy Dodds says, Bottom line, I think its always been hard to qualify...as it should be. Even though some parts of the hunter jumper world have stayed the same over the years, others have changed. Long-time adult riders observe changes in the breeds of horses, moving from smaller Thoroughbreds to larger European Warmbloods. Both Sarah Rubenstein and Julie Vorthman of St. Louis remark on the changing athletic ability of todays hunter-jumper. Laura Hauser notes that the horses of her youth went around the ring at more of a gallop, perhaps because of their smaller stature and stride. Another major change at todays horse show is the increasing number of grooms taking care of show horses.


Adult riders agree that the majority of junior riders in the 70s and 80s took care of their own horses. Laura Hauser, Sarah Rubenstein, and Amy Dodds braided their own horses as juniors, something virtually unheard of at the AA level today. One reason for the increased number of grooms on todays circuit could be the increased number of horses each rider shows. Rubenstein remembers it being common for the same mount to perform in the equitation, hunter and even jumper ring when she was young. Today it is much more common for kids to have three horses to fill these roles. With more horses to care for, grooming help becomes a necessity. One major improvement to hunter-jumper horse shows of today is the increasing size of show schedules. Laura Hauser remembers there being no divisions at the 26 heights when she showed as a kid. Now it is not uncommon to see two or three of these lower divisions throughout a show week. As Mrs. Dodds puts it, its easier to find a better fit for horse and/or rider in todays show schedule. While it may mean longer days at the horse show, these additional divisions provide inexperienced riders and horses opportunities to compete at the top shows . While long-time adults riders agree that many aspects of the AA circuit are the same their youth, there have been numerous improvements and changes over the years, which bodes well for the future of the industry.

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As the warmbloods have increased in the popularity, there is an occasional pop in color not typically seen before. Ashton Alexander rode to 2nd in the New York Equitation Classic at HITS Saugerties in September. Photo Maria Donovan.

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BY SARA SPRAGUE

Hello! I am a sixteen-year-old up junior rider who shows in the High Childrens Jumpers with my three horses Kiara, Cordova, and Rupert. I have spent my whole life riding because my parents own a farm in Richmond, MA. I also show in the Childrens Pony Hunters and the Junior Equitation.

I spend all the time that Im not at prep school either showing or just riding. I am lucky to be one of the few junior sponsored riders for Antares Sellier. I was at HITS Ocala for the winter when the possibility of becoming a junior sponsor was offered, it was totally unexpected. I already owned an Antares custom saddle for my horse Cordova and I was looking to get a saddle fit for Rupert, when my representative, Amy Hern, offered that if I was interested, I could become part of a select few junior sponsors. There is level of responsibility, loyalty and professionalism that come along with being a junior sponsor for such a prestigious company. It is very hard as a junior in high school to juggle my duties as a sponsor, as a student and as a kid constantly on the show circuit. Along with all of the responsibility of representing Antares, come the amazing people who make up Team Antares. From the representatives and salespeople to the other sponsored riders and even the owners, its like being part of the best family ever.

Sponsored Junior Riders: Sara Sprague and Antares

In everything I do I know that no matter what the outcome I will be cheered on by the best team ever. Everywhere I go I run into at least one other Team Antares rider, its always an automatic connection whether we knew each other before or not. As a sponsored rider for any company you must believe in their products and their people, if you sound fake or unenthused when talking about them then clearly its not a match. I truly love Antares and all they stand for and when people see me in all my Antares apparel and bombard me with questions, I give my full confident answers to anything they could dream of asking. There is not always an Antares representative at every show Im at so I give them our local representatives info and tell them to contact her with any requests. When I am at a show that my representative is at I stop in often to update her on how everything is going, help her clean up the booth and take


Apple Creek Farm, North Greenbrush, New York

1. Tyler Maxwell with Eli. 2. Marguerite Guerrero with Patch Adams. 3. Lily Giombetti with Peanut. 4. Gabriella Moran with Eli. 5. Laura on Dustin. 6. Katy Rinaldi with No Limit Soldier. 7. Mariana Grande with Flying Colors. 8. Rene Sandwick with Just Because. PHOTOS HEIDI KEENEY.

occasional photo-ops with ribbons for the Facebook page. Through spending time in the Antares booth helping out I have had the privilege of meeting many famous riders who are also part of team Antares. At HITS Ocala I had the privilege of having a lengthy conversation with Olympic Medalist Michael Page about the importance of showing in the Equitation to improve your riding so you could more easily move up the jumper ranks.

When my representative introduced me to him as Sara Sprague an up and coming jumper rider and one of our junior sponsors I was flabbergasted, he began inquiring about my riding and showing and gave me a good luck hug, it was one of the most amazing moments of my life. When team Antares is made up of so many famous and talented winning riders, I never know who I might meet next! Being a junior sponsor has both been a huge responsibility and a huge opportunity, that I am thankful for every day. I believe with the support of my awesome trainers, family and the backing of such a wonderful company, I will be able to surpass even my largest goals.

Follow Sara on Instagram @saraantaresrider

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On the Cover: Laura Owens Dominates Adult Equitation


When most amateurs focus on consistency, it is for 8 jumps in a row or a full division. For Laura Owens, consistency is on another level. In the last calendar year, over 20 shows, Owens has not walked away from a single show without a blue ribbon and usually drives off with a trunk full of them.

Traveling to AA shows all over California with LAlta Vida, affectionately known as Pokey Owens has tricolored in Adult Equitation, won many Ariat and Marshall & Sterling Adult Medals, and even won the $1,000 Adult Amateur Hunter Classic at the Menlo Charity Horse Show. Training with Sonoma Valley Stables Hope and Ned Glynn since 2011, Owens success in the last three years was looking improbable at best for a long time. I wasnt one of these kids that was showing in the ponies, in the Onondarka I was terrified. I was trotting cross-rails when I was 13. I was so timid, Owens explains. Working with Bay-Area trainer Helle Eriksen, who focuses on starting young riders, Owens was able to take her own pace to the top. Eriksen realized that Owens needed to come into her own confidence and guided and supported as they took it slowly. Owens said, She let me ride the exact same small pony. I rode that pony for years and years and years. She never tried to raise the jumps on me or make me feel uncomfortable it was always at my own pace. She just figured that at some point, I would want to do more. Shes not a show trainer, shes just a very good trainer and shes phenomenal. Finally Owens was ready for more and working with several trainers, made it to the junior equitation medals during her last junior year. I was very unsuccessful, laughs Owens. As she became an Amateur, she decided to focus on the 3 Adult Medals and Equitation. Around the same time, Owens started pursuing her career as an up and coming country music star. As she got more involved in song demos and songwriting, she found

that her true passion was in the process of songwriting and narrowed her focus. Since she was 19, she has demoed over twenty songs. While her writing was strictly for female vocalists, her latest career move has been to embark on writing songs for male vocalists as well. Even though she was showing during this time, she admits, I just wasnt really there. I went about three years without winning a class. When starting at Sonoma Valley Stables in 2011, Hope Glynn instantly recognized what Helle Eriksen had Owens was an incredible rider who needed a cheerleader. Through Glynns coaching, attention to detail, and positive cheerleading, Owens started winning consistently almost instantly. Owens horses went to live at SVS for three months while she got to know her new trainer and then came home to live at a boarding facility near Owens house. There she cares for them, rides them everyday herself, and gets to still spend time with Eriksen, who also trains out of the facility.

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2014Currently Leading PCHA A Equitation 18-35Currently Leading PCHA Region 2 Equitation 18 & OverCurrently Leading NorCal Equitation 18-35Currently Leading USHJA Zone 10 Equitation 18-35Champion $1,000 Penninsula Equine A/A Hunter Classic at MenloChampion 2nd half Adult Equitation 18-35 at ThermalReserve Circuit Champion Equitation 18-35 at Thermal2013Year-end Champion PCHA A Equitation 18-35Year-end Champion PCHA Region 2 Equitation 18 & OverYear-end Champion NorCal Equitation 18-35Year-end Champion USHJA Zone 10 Equitation 18-35Year-end Champion USHJA National Hunter Derby Amateur Rider Winner West Coast 18-35 Equitation Championships at LA NationalWinner 10 Ariat National Adult Medal qualifiersLeader Zone 10 Ariat rider at end of qualifying period3rd North American Amateur Equitation Championships at Capital Challenge4th Ariat National Adult Medal Finals at Capital Challenge2012Year-end Champion PCHA A Equitation 18-35Year-end Champion PCHA Region 2 Equitation 18 & OverYear-end Champion NorCal Equitation 18-35Year-end Champion USHJA Affiliate NorCal Equitation 18-35Champion EMO Horsemanship FinalsChampion Horse & Hound Medal FinalsChampion Carolyn Day Horsemanship FinalsChampion The Equestrian Concierge Equitation Classic

Lauras Show Ring Success:

Owens attributes the fact that she is rarely nervous at horse shows to the fact that she spends so much time with her horses and knows them so well. She says, When I was in full training barns, I was always nervous when I got to shows. What was my horse going to be like that day? When I only rode 2-3 times a week, I was never quite sure. Now that Im so hands on, I know my horses, I know what I have each day there arent surprises in the same way. Owens can count on tremendous support from her family and her boyfriend Matt, allowing her to keep focused on the task at hand. Pokey, who Owens got in 2012 and has been a perfect match from the beginning, helped Owens be the unstoppable force she has been for the last three years in the Adult Equitation. She was able to click everything she learned from Hope and Ned Glynn, along with an enviable list of trainers including Lenny Marconi, Mark Bone, Bert Mutch, Patrick Seaton, Marla Amormino, Bill Cooney, Paul Bennett, and Hilary Johnson, who have helped her along in her career. Owens works on her own and then meets SVS at horse shows and recently got a horse to move into the 36 NorCal Senior Medal (of which she has already won one at Sonoma Horse Park) and CPHA Senior Medal. She is completely focused and confident in her system, her horses, their care, and the training she receives from SVS. I completely trust my horses, she says. As for the future, some hunter and hunter derby classes might catch her eye. I love being an amateur! she laughs.

Photos courtesy of Laura Owens.

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IHJA Finals at Lamplight Equestrian Center

Wayne, Illinois. 1. Lori Woods-Harvey won the Barrington Saddlery IHJA Chidlrens Medal Finals. 2. Kaner 88 and Caelinn Leahy in the Low AO Classic. 3. Michelle Durpettis Moody Blues. 4. Liz Barnhart won the Adult Mini Medal Finals. 5. The Scarnechia Family sponsored the Grand Prix. 6. Capella and Gia Gulino in the WIHS Medal. 7. Lisa Goldman was 1st & 2nd in the $30,000 Luminax USA Grand Prix. 8. Felix Jaramillo with The Advocate and Silas Jaramillo. 9. Clovermeade Bunnymoon and Sinead Fennelly. 10. King Bee and Louisa Brackett. 11. Texan and Melissa Derr. 12. Maggie Bresch won the Childrens Mini Medal Finals. 13. Ashley Flanagan in the Large Pony Hunters. PHOTOS ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY.

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[email protected] www.andrewryback.com (224) 318-5445

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b l e n h e i m e q u i s p o r t s

THE LAS VEGAS NATIONALTHREE THRILLING EVENINGS!

Held in the Equestrian Center at the

SOUTH POINT HOTEL & CASINO 9777 Las Vegas Blvd SouthLas Vegas, NV 89183

THurSdAy, NOVEmbEr 13TH5:30pm - Markel Insurance 1.40m Series Finals7:30pm - FEI Welcome Jumper Classic presented by EquiFit, inc.

FrIdAy, NOVEmbEr 14TH4:00pm - iJump Team Challenge Finals presented by Bruno Delgrange7:30pm - Las Vegas 1.35m Speed Classic presented by Equ Lifestyle

SATurdAy, NOVEmbEr 15TH 3:30pm - 1.40m Winning Round Classic 7:30pm - $75,000 Las Vegas CSI-W Grand Prix

Visit Showpark.com for more information Photo By Flying Horse Photography | Equestrisol Design


International Jumping Festival at Blenheim

USEF Talent Search-West & IJF, San Juan Capistrano, California. 1 & 2. Cantuccini and Kayla Lott. 3. Casmir Z and Peyton Warren. 4. Aquino 49 and Nina Vogel. 5. Sorcerer and Sydney Hutchins. 6. Shogoun Du Moulin and Sydney Callaway. 7. Avion and Mitchell Endicott. 8. Cincinetti and Sarah Jane Haskins. 9. Got Bay? PHOTOS SARAH SHAROU.

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Thoroughbred Alliance Show Series1.

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1. Paige Fitzgerald and Snow Buster. 2. Team from MidAtlantic Horse Rescue cheering their horse, DSauvage. 3. Nancy Hale. 4. Taylor Stefko. 5. Courtney Wiggs. 6. Alyssa Dietrich. 7. Caitlin Owings. 8. Sydney Hemling ODell. PHOTOS VALERIE BULLER/ROUGH COAT PHOTOGRAPHY.


Every year my family and I travel to Florida to watch the Winter Equestrian Festival. This year when I was there taking pictures of a Grand Prix, I overheard some kids critiquing just about every stride the riders took. They were saying things like This person needs more pace, They missed a lead change, Their horse is such a saint, They took that too long and OMG chip. Now considering most of the riders were Olympic riders, these critiques were classic examples of armchair quarterbacking. It is what we need to stop as a sport. Do you ever end up judging other riders because you see them making mistakes that you think are ridiculous? We all do sometimes, but we shouldnt. Its like someone else judging you who has no idea about what your skill level is. Maybe that rider is struggling with a green horse just moving up the levels. Maybe they broke their arm two months ago and are working their way up. No matter what you see, everyone at the horse show is working their hardest, trying their best, and certainly dont deserve your unsolicited criticism. Whether youre an experienced or inexperienced rider, it is important to remember at horse shows that other people have their own trainers and most likely wouldnt ask you for your opinion. Ive been to many horse shows, both local and top level, and I always hear by-standers talking negatively about people riding in the ring. I understand that our sport is competitive, but we should be competing to take the sport to the highest level of professionalism and horsemanship. In order to become a successful rider,

Judging Others Is Only Hurting Yourself

it not only takes skill but it also takes the right mental attitude and determination to move past all the drama. A close friend always says Every rider has strengths and weaknesses. Maybe wed be more supportive if we focused on their strengths. When training it takes time for your efforts to come together and tell the story youve been trying to tell all this time. The simple question is, why are we so critical and quick to judge others? Maybe we as riders dont want to see other riders do better than us. Even though we tell ourselves differently, the real truth is that we can all be very competitive. Theres a little girl from the barn where I ride who always says Why do people take this so seriously? It should be about having fun and enjoying your pony! This statement should remind everyone that we should observe without judgment or criticism. Maybe instead of judging others from our first impressions, we should remember the golden rule. Treat others the way you would like to be treated and with respect and compassion.

ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY PLAID HORSE INTERN CARLY NASZNIC

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Temperance, MI - The Michigan Hunter Jumper Association with Stoney Ridge Farm and Scott Adler held the MHJA Medal Finals with the prestigious judges panel of George H. Morris, Diane Carney (Antioch, IL), Sue Bauer-Pinckney (Lexington, KY), and Pat Bostwick (Cleveland, OH). Spectators could grab a plate of pancakes courtesy of Stoney Ridge Farm and a mimosa sponsored by The Classic Horse and Rochester Hills Tack Shop before grabbing a ringside seat to watch the seven medal final classes. The course, designed by Scott Alder, had four options for the riders to choose how they wanted to jump them. The obstacles could be jumped as a straight line or a diagonal line, setting up for a bending line to an oxer on the backside. The track offered inside turn options and some rollback turns for riders to demonstrate their skills. The judges panel had the top riders in the MHJA Open Junior Medal return to work on the flat. After putting them through the paces, it was Jane Smith, 18, of Bloomfield Hills, MI with Parle who took the top honors. Smith rides with Neurice Gulino at Fodwoode Hunt Club and is off to University of Michigan to study Pre-med and ride on the college team. It was such a cool opportunity to get to ride in front of them and show off your skills, said Smith about riding in front of the judges panel. It was really an honor. Riding under pressure with a tent full of spectators, four sets of experienced judges eyes and the meal title at stake can be nerve-wracking but Smith took it all in stride. I just tried to tune it out and think about my ride, said Smith. I went in and said this is a really fun course and I tried to put in a solid round. I knew my horse and

I knew what he could do. I new the risks I could take, so I was pretty confident. Another junior winner was Eva Bugis, 14, of Highland, MI, who won the MHJA Limit Junior Medal and rides with Scott Alder at Stoney Ridge Farm. Bugis borrow Fortuna from Mira Mansuetti for the win. After scoring an 85 in the first round, Bugis was called in on top of the group of four finalists for further testing. I was glad I didnt have to test first, said Bugis. I watched the others test and made my plan. One of the adult riders, Hilary Marx, 24, of Ottowa Hills, MI received an 88 from the panel of experts for ride in the MHJA Open Adult Medal. The top four riders returned from additional flat work as their test and Marx (who trains with Suz Bates Colon at Hunters Run) held her position in the lead for the win on Cohiba, who won the Best Equitation Horse award.

Top Riders Tested at Michigan Medal FinalsBY BRENDA MUELLER FOR CHICAGO EQUESTRIAN

Hillary Marx won the Open Adult Medal and her horse Cohiba won the Best Equitation Horse Award.


Stoney Ridge Farm Hunter Derby The horse show had another big feature event on Saturday with the $1,000 Stoney Ridge Farm Hunter Derby. Forty-five competitors took their turn on the Scott Alder designed course in the grass ring. Seaside, owned by Jordan Baker and ridden by Rachel Shearling, took top honors. The class was judged using the European format. Riders jumped the designated classic round, in this case jumps 1-8, horses without major faults, as determined by the judges, continued directly on to the handy round. Horses without major errors in style or major faults such as a rail, missed lead change, etc., received a tone after jump 8 and those horses did not continue on to the handy round and finished on their classic round score only, including high options. Because the derby is so popular and has a chance to someday go international, I thought of this format years ago. Coming from a European outlook, it is similar to power and speed, which Europeans already understand. Having run a class with this format, I see this structure as a benefit to any derby and it worked beautifully. The crowd loved it, the riders loved it, and as far as judging, it was quite transparent, said Carney.

Seaside won the $1,000 Stoney Ridge Farm Hunter Derby.

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Southeast Medal Finals by Plaid Horse Intern Dominique Gonzalez As the sun rose on the Jacksonville Equestrian Center (Jacksonville, FL), riders were making last minute preparations to get ready for Southeast Medal Finals (SEMF), which hosts Zone IV Maclay Regionals. Some slept in, enjoying a catching up on a couple extra hours of sleep while others had last minute lessons to prepare for whatever was to come. Hayley Waters, 18, in her last junior year, was calm as her Fall Finals began. Waters said, It has been a really good year so far, Ive been so lucky to ride these horses this year. Hopefully indoors will go well! Waters won the $25,000 SEMF Grand Prix on Friday night with Rapsodi CR, owned by her parents Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Waters with two clear rounds. She also 2nd in the $5,000 Welcome Stake on Qurint. Waters said, This was the first grand prix I have done on Rapsodi and he was great. Im planning on doing him in the Young Rider division and its really nice to have that confidence boost going to a bigger show. Waters rode Courant to 4th in the ASPCA/Maclay Regionals on Sunday, behind Ashton Alexander, 17, Olivia Woodson, 14, and Jordan Katz. Ashton Alexander, 17, a veteran of the winners circle from West Coast Junior Hunter Finals to Devon in the past two years, was thrilled with her win at ASPCA/Maclay Regionals. She was called in 3rd to work-off with the top four riders, which included counter cantering fence 10 and trotting fence 7. Alexander said, Its pretty exciting! I was just hoping to make it through to go to Maclay Finals at The National Horse Show, but winning is obviously pretty awesome too! I knew coming back third I had nothing to lose [as she would advance to Finals in any


position 1st to 4th] and I had to go for it all in the test. Woodson was elated with her 2nd place finish, saying, It was my first regionals and I was just hoping to qualify for finals, but this is a lot better! Woodson credited her success to much practice at home with trainer Geoff Teall. She said, we worked on so many things different things that during every part of the course I felt prepared because we had worked on it at home. Especially in the first course from 5ab to 6 it was kind of a blind turn and I felt comfortable with it because we worked on them a lot at home.

The Plaid Horse will be on the ground for ASPCA/Maclay Finals coverage live from The National Horse Sho

Documents

The Plaid Horse - The Amateur Issue