Triumphs at Tryon Spring 8

The Tryon Spring 8 and Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Charity Horse Show, June 8-12 in Mill Spring, North Carolina, was a highlight event on Finally Farm's early summer schedule.

In addition to Brunello's Breyer Debut and Celebration, the show featured a full contingent of Finally Farm riders who enjoyed ample ribbons and awards in the Hunter and Jumper sections.

Pony Lane Farm's Coronado swept all four First Year Green Working Hunter over fences classes to easily earn the championship ribbon with Liza Boyd aboard. The pair went on to contest the USHJA International Hunter Derby.

"He went so nicely, and I was so pleased with him," said Liza of the 6-year-old Zangersheide stallion by Coriano Z. "He amazes me. He's so much like Brunello in so many ways. He went on a trail ride before the class as his preparation--even at 7 p.m. for a night class with a huge crowd, and he's only 6! If not for an unlucky rail, he would have had great scores in the Classic Round. He was so good, and I was thrilled with him."

Liza and Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said, recent winners at Devon, enjoyed their time in the Derby spotlight and placed ninth overall for yet another derby ribbon added to their collection.

Finally Farm's tricolor count was aided by O’Ryan, who earned the 3'6" Junior Hunter Championship and also finished up as the circuit champion. Hunter Holloway and Stella Styslinger combined forces in the saddle, and their points from both weeks captured the title.

Maraschino and Lily Bennett also added the 3'3" Junior Hunter championship and Junior Hunter Classic wins to the Finally Farm collection.

"Lily now has three Children’s Jumpers with the addition of Zimba," said Liza. "She's leasing him, and I want to thank trainers Daniel Geitner and Scot Evans. He's a lovely horse, and we’re excited to have him in the barn."

Liza credited Lily's ring time in the jumpers for helping her clinch the hunter championship with Maraschino. "By the time Maraschino showed in afternoon, Lily had successfully shown her jumpers. She went into the handy round confident with taking the inside turns. The turns were slower and easier after the jumpers, and I attributed her success from having that experience under her belt."

Reserve championship winners included Ruby Sloan and Look Again in the Children's Hunter, 14 and under, section, with Zola Thompson riding Elegance to the Medium Pony reserve title.

"I want to thank Robin Greenwood, who helped us with Elegance, which is her pony," said Liza. "With Robin, Tamara Berkowitz and myself, Zola had three trainers with her. It was a total group effort!

"I was so proud of Zola," added Liza. "She's a much stronger and more educated rider this year, and she’s come a long way. They drive from Alabama for lessons, and I want to thank her mom Alex Thompson for being so dedicated and the perfect chauffeur. I can tell a big difference in Zola's riding, and having Robin's help was great. Tamara and I listened and learned. Robin has produced a lot of top riders and ponies and has a passion for the kids. She's so good at explaining things in ways kids can understand. I may say the same thing, but the way she words things really allows them to wrap their heads around the philosophies. Robin has taught Zola a lot, and we’ve enjoyed learning, too."

Over in the jumper rings, Maddy Thatcher and Balvino captured the Amateur-Owner Jumper reserve championship and won the Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic.

"This show was great for Maddy and Balvino," said Liza. "She's starting to really click with that horse. It took her a little bit of time to figure him out, but now she has and it's a great match. I"m really happy it all came together for them at Tryon. She's worked so hard, so that Classic win was an especially gratifying victory for her."

Posted on June 15, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Hardin Towell Stars at the Spruce Meadows National

Hardin Towell traveled to Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta, for the summer series and immediately made his presence known during the "National" CSI 5* Tournament, held June 8-12. He won the opening day's Back On Track 1.50m speed class aboard Lucifer V and then again rode to top honors in the RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m on Friday. Congratulations to Hardin and Jennifer Gates LLC for a great start to the summer show season!

Highlights from the June 10, 2016 Spruce Meadows Media Release include:

Jack Hardin Towell Jr. of the United States and Lucifer V won the RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m on Friday at the Spruce Meadows ‘National’, presented by Rolex. Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid finished second, while Ben Asselin (CAN) was third on Plume de la Roque.

The RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m had 21 entries, and eight were clear to move on to the jump-off. Setting the opening pace with a clear round was Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Cadalora, who stopped the timers in 45.02 seconds. They would eventually finish in fourth place.

Calgary’s own Ben Asselin and Plume de la Roque lowered the winning time down to 44.00 seconds to hold onto third place. Patricio Pasquel (MEX) and Candela slipped into fifth place with a time of 45.69 seconds.

Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid made a bid for the win with a speedy time of 42.61 seconds, but it was last to go who proved to be the best. Jack Hardin Towell Jr. and Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) owned by Jennifer Gates, put the pedal down to win in 40.96 seconds.

Hardin Towell hoists the championship trophy with David Dal Bello, managing director at RBC Capital Markets during the awards ceremony.

“I was lucky enough to go last and see him go,” Towell said of Lamaze. “My horse is naturally quick, so I went quite fast. I knew what I had to do, and I thought I did enough. Luckily, the last two jumps I caught right out of stride. My horse is very naturally quick. I gave it a shot, and it worked out.”

This was the pair’s second win of the week, having previously topped the Back on Track Cup 1.50m. Towell has stepped Lucifer V, his top horse, down to the 1.50m competitions this week and focused on his other horse, New York, for the grand prix.

Towell noted, “After World Cup Finals, it didn’t go the way I would have liked, so maybe I lost a little confidence in myself and Lucifer. It’s nice to go back down and gain confidence again. My plan is to do him in the grand prix next week. I entered him in the right classes. Now I have a lot of confidence in him going into next week.”

Lamaze may have a new star in Chacco Kid, but he did not go all out in this jump-off.

“Hardin is a very fast rider, and I knew that perhaps I left the door open,” he conceded. “In my case, I felt like I asked as much out of my horse tonight [as I could]. If I went after Hardin tonight, I don’t think much would have changed for me. It’s a new horse for me that I’m really happy with, that I love, so I’m a bit cautious. But I thought I put enough pressure to make him run, and at that point anything can happen.”

Lamaze termed Chacco Kid as a “great one,” and added, “He has everything to me that great horses do. After that, he has to prove me right, but I’m really excited about this horse. Winning or not, I was very excited about his jump-off.”

Hardin also placed eighth in the class aboard New York, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, owned by Jennifer Gates LLC.

To watch Hardin's jump-off, check out the National Friday Highlights video!

Towell Goes For Speed in Back on Track Cup

There were 38 entries that went to post for the Back on Track Cup 1.50m speed, and 14 were clear to lead the results. The fastest of those was Jack Hardin Towell (USA) on Jennifer Gates LLC’s Lucifer V, who stopped the timers in 60.86 seconds for victory.

Towell brought Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) to Spruce Meadows last year with some success. He has grown into one of Towell’s top grand prix horses, performing well at CSI 5* events. After a month’s break following the winter season, Towell decided to step Lucifer V down this week while his second mount, New York, does the grand prix.

“There’s nothing like being over-horse-powered in a class!” he said with a laugh. “I thought I would give it a little bit of a go. He jumped quite well, and he feels good. He always jumps well here. It was nice to step him down and go in there for both our confidence, together.”

With age comes wisdom, and Towell feels lucky that both of his top horses are maturing and growing.

Hardin Towell hoists the Back on Track Trophy with Tim McLeod, acting president of Back on Track.

He said, “It’s amazing how much they’ve grown in a year’s time. This class last year, Lucifer went in. I probably would have been close to winning, and then he saw something, spooked, and reared. It’s nice that both of my horses are 10 years old now; they’re a little older and more experienced. I feel like they’re coming along well.”

To watch Hardin's winning round, check out the National Wednesday Highlights video!

Final Results: Back on Track Cup 1.50m

1. LUCIFER V: 2006 Westphalian gelding by Lord Dezi x Grandeur - HARDIN TOWELL (USA), Jennifer Gates LLC: 0/60.86

2. ROSANA DU PARK: 2005 Selle Francais mare by Kannan - ERIC LAMAZE (CAN), Artisan Farms & Torrey Pines Stable: 0/61.47

3. DOOLEY’S DELUXE: 2004 SACHS gelding by Dinglinger x Lesotho - VANESSA MANNIX (CAN), Vanessa Mannix: 0/67.13

Final Results: RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m

1. LUCIFER V: 2006 Westphalian gelding by Lord Dezi x Grandeur - HARDIN TOWELL (USA), Jennifer Gates LLC: 0/0/40.96

2. CHACCO KID: 2006 Oldenburg by Chacco Blue x Come On - ERIC LAMAZE (CAN), Chacco Kid Group: 0/0/42.61

3. PLUME DE LA ROQUE: 2003 Selle Francais mare by Kannan x Adelfos BEN ASSELIN (CAN), Attache Stables: 0/0/44.00

Special thanks to Photos © Spruce Meadows Media Services/CanSport Photo Ltd. for the photographs.

Posted on June 14, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Brunello's Breyer Debut

Brunello's Breyer Celebration at the Tryon International Equestrian Center

After Brunello won his third consecutive USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship last August with rider Liza Boyd, many of his fans hoped to see his likeness depicted as a Breyer Animal Creations model.

On Friday June 10 their wish was granted at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, North Carolina when Brunello and his owners Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd escorted the famous chestnut gelding center ring to unveil his model before a capacity crowd of spectators.

In between the Classic and Handy rounds of the USHJA International Hunter Derby held that evening, Brunello, nicknamed Ike, was honored for his remarkable career, which will now also be immortalized through Breyer.

"There was a slide show and videos of his hunter derby wins and great photos on the Jumbotron screen so everyone could see him perform," said Liza. "I think the spectators were really into it, and some had come that night just to see him. It was such a privilege to be there with him.

Jack Towell introduces Brunello to his Breyer.

"People came up to me and said they were there to support Brunello and so they could one day say they shared a part of that horse’s career," added Liza. "For them, it was really special. I think he’s a horse everyone can relate to and many people knew and love. It was an exciting moment for the sport, and Tryon brought out so many people. Kids came to the barn afterward and played with him, and parents came up and thanked me and told me their kids looked up to us. It was really overwhelming."

The celebration continued on Saturday with an autograph session with Liza as well as a "Meet and Greet" with Ike and his longtime groom Alberto Ramirez.

"I signed many of the Breyer models on their bellies," said Liza with a laugh. "There were lots of cute pony kids that I knew and then some people who were Breyer collectors who drove in just for the signing. Alberto brought Ike to the Pony Pen, where they usually have the pony rides. He was so good. He loved meeting everyone and was such a ham. The smaller the kids the more he loved on them."

Even though Ike can be grumpy in the barn at times, he displayed his true, gentle character throughout the weekend. "He was so calm and such a good boy," said Liza. "Walking down into the ring during the derby I’m sure he was a little confused because he was braided but not competing. But then he seemed to soak it all up. Once again, that horse never lets us down; he stepped up and was the perfect gentleman."

Posted on June 13, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Like I Said and Liza Boyd Take Devon's $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said and Liza Boyd

If there's one rider on the circuit who loves a challenge, it's Liza Boyd. So, when she returned standing fifth after the Classic Round aboard Like I Said in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Devon, she knew what she needed to do: go all out.

And, the resulting Handy Ride vaulted her and Pony Lane Farm's 8-year-old mare to the head of the class with scores of 95 + 3 (high options) + 9 (Handy Bonus) and 93 + 3 + 10 from the two judging panels.

"For me, it was one of those rounds that we strive for as riders," said Liza. "That’s why we do this. It’s our addiction to have rounds like that. And when I came out of the ring, I couldn’t critique my round in one single place. I never do that. So, that's always the ultimate feeling--everything came up exactly how I wanted, she jumped every jump a 10 and obviously the judges agreed. It was another round that will go down as top rounds I’ve ever had."

Like I Said and team Finally Farm celebrating in the Dixon Oval at Devon

Liza also rode Billie Steffee's Maggie Mae to seventh place overall after taking over the ride when friend and fellow professional Jennifer Alfano injured her knee earlier in the week.

"I'm really grateful that they chose me to ride Maggie," said Liza. "Any time you have more than one horse in a derby your chances are a lot greater, and you get to ride the course and get more of a feel for it. Maggie is more seasoned than my mare, so it was great to get in the ring first on her. She was so good, and it was so much fun to ride her."

After winning the First Year Green Handy class aboard Like I Said earlier in the week, Liza had hoped "Sally" would do well in the derby.

"I went in without any real expectations, though. In the first round she shied away from crowd a little," said Liza. "It was nothing bad, and I was so happy with her and as a First Year horse she was so good. Then, for the Handy, I’m always good at returning as an underdog because I figure there's nothing to lose.

"After I came out of the ring, I thought I'd probably end up third in my mind, and I thought that was great," she continued. "I didn’t think Louise Serio (standing second) would play it safe and Nick Hanness (standing first) had a substantial lead. I think Nick could have jumped the last low jump, but he chose the high option and had the rail down. That’s what makes these derbies so exciting for people to watch--anything can happen. It’s like a jumper class rather than hunter class, where you're better able to predict the outcome. These classes are exciting because there's so much strategy involved, and you just never know what will happen."

Like I Said and Liza Boyd clearing a High Option fence with room to spare!

Even though Liza is a three-time winner of the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship aboard the venerable Brunello and has won countless derbies throughout the country on a variety of mounts, this particular class had eluded her until this year.

"To win this class was so special," she said. "I was excited to get this under my belt. Brunello and I could never conquer that derby, so it’s a fantastic accomplishment for me."

Liza also credited the entire Finally Farm team for their support and allowing her to focus on riding and showing to the best of her abilities.

"I have to thank Randi Button, who takes care of Sally. She knows that mare so well and the day of the derby she told me, 'She's her playful self, Liza. She's on.' Randi was right. And when she said that, it gave me so much more reassurance. If Randi says she's going to be good, then she will be."

In addition, Assistant Trainer Tamara Berkowitz had another contingent of Finally Farm horses and riders at the Tryon horse show in North Carolina, while Max Mandel was at home base in Camden, South Carolina, riding, teaching lessons and preparing a second group of horses that will be traveling to Tryon next week.

"I really couldn't do this all without the backbone of this amazing team," said Liza, also noting the support she received from her parents, Jack and Lisa Towell. "I think sometimes people forget that the horse and rider winning these big classes don't do it alone; there are so many others who make it all possible for us to stand center ring for the awards."

"To win this class was so special," said Liza Boyd.

Finally Farm's success wasn't limited to the derby, however. Lily Bennett's Maraschino earned the Small Junior, 15 and under, reserve champion with McKayla Langmeier aboard, while Maddy Thatcher had excellent performances in the Amateur-Owner hunter and jumper sections aboard Summer Place and Show Show.

To view Liza and Sally's Handy Round performance on USEF Network, please visit their Facebook page.

For more articles and photos about Liza and Sally's winning performance in the USHJA International Hunter Derby, please click on these links!

The Devon Horse Show Daily Update

Phelps Sports

The Chronicle of the Horse

Special thanks to The Book LLC for the beautiful photography.

Posted on June 5, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

The “Queen of the Classics” Continues her Reign at Equus Tryon Spring 5

With a collection of Hunter and Jumper Classic wins this spring that is verging on a dozen, Maddy Thatcher has earned a new nickname as “Queen of the Classics.” She continued her streak at the Equus Tryon Spring 5, held May 18-22 in Mill Spring, North Carolina, with two more blue ribbons.

Maddy topped the $3,000 Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic aboard Skilliane de Varnel—the pair’s fourth consecutive Classic win—and she also added first- and second-placed ribbons in the $1,000 3’3”/3’6” Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic as icing on the cake.

“Maddy was great,” said trainer Liza Boyd. “She is the Queen of the Classics, for sure! She and Skilliane de Varnel are a great partnership. That mare is fast and feisty, and she’ll buck and play, but Maddy is so game and brave that when they’re on, they’re pretty hard to beat.”

Maddy’s consistent rides in the Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic helped her to clinch the top two spots. Her second-round score of 87 with Jewel was the high-score of the class, and she also earned an impressive score of 85 aboard Summer Place in the second round.

“Maddy rode really well on all of her horses,” said Liza. “She was great coming back for the second round of the Hunter Classic and moving up to take the win.”

Liza also had consistent rides aboard a variety of hunters, taking the 3’6” Performance Working Hunter championship award Maraschino.

“The mare went really, really well,” said Liza. “She’ll be going to Devon next week for McKayla Langmeier to show in the Juniors, so it was a great prep for her.”

Stella Styslinger and Invincible added another tricolor to their collection, capturing one section of the 3’6” Large Junior Hunters with two blue ribbons. She also took excellent ribbons aboard Cellini and O’Ryan in the Small Juniors.

Liza earned fourth and fifth places overall in the $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with her mounts Coronado and Shamrock, respectively.

“I was really happy with how these horses went,” she said of the 6- and 7-year-olds. “The class was rained out the night it was scheduled, which was too bad. It would have been a good experience for them to show under the lights, but it was the right decision with the weather.

“I was especially pleased with Coronado. He was a little playful in the first round, but he came back into the second round and was great,” she noted. “I wasn’t planning on doing the tough inside turn, where others were having trouble and stops, but just the way I landed (from the previous jump), it was set up perfectly for him, and he was great. I think he got 10 handy bonus points from one set of judges. It was nice to know that a 6-year-old could do that. He has such a great brain!”

In the jumper rings, Brie Tiffany and Chacor earned the Modified Children's/Adult Jumper championship, while Sarah Isgett returned from the University of South Carolina and guided Killarney to excellent performances in the Adult Amateurs. "It's good to have her showing and back again for the summer," said Liza of Sarah.

Grace Howard and Hiho Houdini made their debut together in the Amateur-Owners with fifth in the Classic. Houdini officially became a member of the Howard family just before the Tryon show.

“He’s a great Irish horse, so brave and game,” said Liza of Houdini, whom Grace had leased before purchasing. “Grace always goes for it, and they’re both confident and a great team together. Since going to college, Grace has gotten a lot stronger, working out and doing the riding team at Georgia, so to see her doing so well in the jumpers and the equitation is wonderful.”

After two weeks at the Aiken Spring Classic and a week at Tryon, Finally Farm riders and horses will now take a short break in preparation for Devon and the start of the summer show season.

“It was a strong three weeks of showing, and we’re looking forward to Devon,” said Liza, who will take Hunters and Jumpers for the prestigious Pennsylvania show. “We’re also looking forward to Jack’s induction into the Show Hunter Hall of Fame during Devon, so it will be a special time.”

Posted on May 23, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Like I Said Loves Aiken Charity II

Pony Lane Farm’s Like I Said made her preference known for Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina, when she jumped to top honors in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby with Liza Boyd aboard. The class was a featured event of week II, held May 11-15.

“She was amazing in the Classic Round, and before the added points from the high options she scored a 94 from one set of judges,” said Liza. “It’s all so easy and fun for her. She goes around the ring in her little rubber bit, galloping and jumping,. She’s so scopey and athletic but also cute, and I think she’s likeable to almost every judge. Some judges have preferences for certain types of horses, but so far she’s appealed to many people.”

Liza described the class as challenging, with a starting field of top professional contenders, including Havens Schatt, Jennifer Alfano, Harold Chopping and Daniel Geitner, to name just a few.

“It wasn’t easy!” said Liza laughing. “There were some strong partnerships, such as Jen with Miss Lucy and Maggie May, Havens on Breeze and Harold on Caramo. The courses didn’t walk hard, but the Handy turned out to be really technical. Even the first line was challenging. People did nine, 10 or 11 strides, so it was a little deceiving.”

Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said and Liza Boyd won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

In the Handy Round, Liza returned in second place aboard O’Ryan but had a mistake and dropped down to 11th overall. “I tried to turn too tight to an airy log, and I misjudged the track. We ended up jumping the standard part, which was too bad. Otherwise, he was really good,” she noted.

When returning as the leader aboard Like I Said, Liza planned her strategy carefully.

“I rode maybe a little conservatively,” she said. “I didn’t go back in and try for a 90 because I didn’t want to make a mistake. We were ahead, and I wanted to ride smartly. We jumped all of the high options, but there was one inside turn that I didn’t do. Other people had had rails there. We had nice scores and ended up winning.”

In addition to the Derby victory, Finally Farm concluded the two-week Aiken Charity Horse Shows with countless wins and tricolors.

Stella Styslinger guided O’Ryan and Cellino to the Junior Hunter championship and reserve titles, respectively. She also rode Invincible to the blue ribbon in the Junior Hunter Classic. Ne-Yo and Sarah Livingston also claimed the 3’3” Junior Hunter Championship, for a nice Junior sweep.

Look Again and Ruby Sloan dominated the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under section, taking the Grand Children’s Hunter Championship and winning the NAL/WIHS Children’s Hunter Classic.

“ I was so happy for Ruby. She was so consistent the two weeks,” said Liza. “They were both solid and confident. She got him last November, and this is her first year on a horse. Last year she was on Medium ponies, so she’s made a great transition.”

Maggie Hill collected the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, reserve championship aboard Co Co Chanel and also displayed her added confidence. After showing on the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit for the first time this year, Maggie returned to her home in Wyoming and took a 10-week break from showing. She traveled back to the East Coast for the two weeks in Aiken.

“Maggie rides at home with my sister-in-law and comes back to me very fit, but she doesn’t jump much, so it takes a couple days to get back in the rhythm,” said Liza. “She did a great job in getting back in the groove quickly, finding the right pace andher eye for jumping. She also won the SCHJA Medal on Friday, which was great.”

In the jumper ring, Finally Farm riders also had ample success. Erin McGuire continued her streak of top placings in the grand prix ring, taking a second-placed ribbon in the $25,000 Aiken Charity Grand Prix with Kasarr. The pair posted the fastest four-fault performance in the first round.

The Children’s Jumpers also shone brightly, with Lily Bennett and Croft Original winning the NAL/WIHS Children’s Jumper Classic and Stella taking second aboard Apollo Mission.

“Lily was great!” said Liza. “She has really come a long way. She started in the jumpers in Florida and has really developed a sophisticated style. I’ve enjoyed watching her progress. She’s gone from learning the right numbers and figuring out the time allowed to now taking her riding to the next level. She slices fences and leaves out strides in a safe way. Her riding has gotten so much stronger, and I think she’s found her niche in the jumper ring.”

In the Adult Jumpers, Hiho Houdini and Grace Howard captured the section championship while Kelly Maloney guided Justified to second place in the NAL/WIHS Adult Amateur Jumper Classic.

Maddy Thatcher and Skilliane De Varnel claimed the Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic, and Maddy also guided Dolce Vita and Balvino to top ribbons in the section.

Maddy’s ribbon collecting also continued on in the hunters, where she piloted Jewel to the 3’3’ Amateur-Owner Hunter reserve championship and topped the Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic.

“I’ve always liked that mare and followed her career with Haylie Jayne Rolfe,” said Liza. “Haylie did a great job bringing her along from a Pre-Green horse, and I remember watching her in the First Years and thinking what a nice mare she’d developed into. Maddy took over the ride after Florida this year, and they’ve become quite a good match. We are excited to have her in the barn; she’s a really good jumper and a fun horse, and they suit each other so well.”

Posted on May 16, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Aiken Charity I Brings Many Special Moments

Havens Schatt, Liza Boyd and Jennifer Alfano enjoy the Aiken hospitality.

he Aiken Spring Charity Horse Show debuted at Bruce’s Field in Aiken, South Carolina from May 4-8, and there were many special moments that paid tribute to the late Bruce Ducchosois, who left a legacy of horsemanship for his friends to continue on.

“It was the first year of the show, and I think it was everything that Bruce would have wanted it to be,” said trainer Liza Boyd. “Everyone was so hospitable. Because it’s a charity show with a Board of Directors, it’s all about the experience and having a great time. There was a party every afternoon around 4, with food and cocktails. You could sit under the tent and watch the classes. It feels like an old-fashioned horse show, just the way it used to be.”

Liza Boyd and Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said

Lisa Towell agreed, adding that every small detail was covered, from the welcoming office staff housed in a charming building with a wrap-around front porch, to the well-appointed furniture and paintings that came from Bruce’s own collection. “It was a lovely show in every way, and every day we drove in we thought of Bruce,” she said.

The Finally Farm team rose to the occasion, taking bountiful tricolor ribbons from the Children’s Hunters to the Open Jumpers.

In the $25,000 Aiken Premier Hunter Classic, Liza and O’Ryan placed a close second to Havens Schatt aboard Aristocrat.

“It was a great money class for the hunters, with great quality hunters,” said Liza, who shared the top five spots with Havens and Jennifer Alfano. “I think that class in particular summed up the feeling of the horse show; there was great competition, but it was a friendly and fun competition. Everyone cheered everyone else on.

“Havens winning the class was great. She beat me by half of a point, and I think that was Bruce helping her out,” said Liza. “She rode for Bruce and trained him.”

As part of the awards ceremony, Havens was presented with one of Bruce’s famous velvet helmets in a ceremonial box. “It was very emotional and super sentimental,” said Liza.

Stella and Jennifer Styslinger celebrate Mother's Day!

Stella Styslinger and her mounts Cellino, O’Ryan and Invincible were in top form at Aiken. Invincible earned the Junior Hunter championship and O’Ryan the reserve, while Cellino topped an over fences class and earned other great ribbons.

“Stella had a fabulous horse show,” said Liza. “She’s getting really consistent, confident and really going in there and laying down round after round. Stella’s mother Jennifer was there cheering her on, so it was a Happy Mother’s Day for sure!”

Likewise, it was hard to top Maddy Thatcher in any of the sections in which she competed. Maddy won Amateur-Owner Hunter classes aboard Jewel and Like I Said, taking the reserve championship in the 3’3” Amateur-Owner, 18-35, section aboard the latter. She also rode to multiple jumper honors, including victory in the Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic with Skilliane De Varnel.

“Like I Said was great the entire week. She was champion in the First Year Greens with me in a very competitive division,” said Liza. “Then, Maddy won both over fences classes with her on the second day. It was only their second time showing together! They are a cute combination, and that mare and Maddy are ones to watch for the future. They’ll move up to the 3’6” very soon.”

Classic winners! Skilliane De Varnel and Maddy Thatcher won the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic and Chacor and Brie Tiffany won the Adult Jumper Classic.

Many other classic blue ribbons returned to Finally Farm this week, including: Junior Hunter Classic (O’Ryan and Stella); NAL/WIHS Children’s Hunter Classic (Look Again and Ruby Sloan); NAL/WIHS Adult Jumper Stake (Chacor and Bie Tiffany).

Out on the West Coast, Hardin Towell and Jennifer Gates continued to jump to impressive performances. During the Del Mar National Horse Show, May 3-8 in Del Mar, California, Hardin returned to top form aboard Flip, with second place in the $100,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar.

Jen also contested this prestigious class, earning just 4 faults aboard her mounts Pumped Up Kicks and Lufitkus S, respectively. She also took third place with Pumped Up Kicks in the California Junior/Amateur-Owner Grand Prix as well as third aboard Cadence in the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Challenge.

Posted on May 10, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Brunello is a Breyer!

Breyer® Debuts Brunello Portrait Model at Tyron

Legendary Hunter to be Honored June 10th

After Brunello and Liza Boyd won their third consecutive USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship last August, many of their fans rallied in support to see Brunello become a Breyer Model Horse. Their efforts paid off, and it was announced last week that Ike's portrait model will debut at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in June.

"It's actually a fitting place for the model debut," said Boyd. "Ike's co-owner, Mrs. Janet Peterson, lives in Landrum, just outside of Tryon. I think it will be fun because they're making such a celebration out of his model. It will be exciting for Mrs. Peterson and also for Ike and his fans, so for this to happen here it's all come full circle."

Boyd is also thrilled that her daughters Elle and Adeline will be able to have a keepsake of Ike and be a part of the ceremony. While 6-year-old Elle may remember watching Ike compete, it's likely that he'll be retired before 2-year-old Adeline will have the opportunity to really remember him perform at his peak.

"For Elle, this is a very big deal," said Liza laughing. "She loves Breyer models, and to have one made for Ike, who lives in her own barn, is super special. I'm also excited for the horse, my dad, Mrs. Peterson and Alberto Rameriz. For a Breyer model to be created that sums up everything he’s done and won, is an honor. So many famous horses have become Breyer Models, and to be a part of the team of a Breyer horse will be something I'll cherish forever."

To read more about the festivities and planned events, please see the press release released by the Tryon International Equestrian Center below:

In the horse show world, the super stars of the sport tend to be jumpers or dressage horses. So it may come as a surprise to learn that the horse with the biggest fan club is super hunter Brunello! As with many things, Brunello is simply exceptional. The 18-year-old Hanoverian owned by Janet Peterson and Liza Towell Boyd claimed his third consecutive victory in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in 2015 and was named the USEF National Horse of the Year, for the second time, as well as Show Hunter of the Year by The Chronicle of the Horse. Rider Liza Boyd claimed the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy for the third time as well, thanks to Brunello. And so it is only fitting that Brunello takes his place among the pantheon of horses that have graced Breyer’s stable of horse heroes!

Breyer is pleased to announce that it will introduce its new Brunello portrait model this summer, in partnership with Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), on June 10th, as a highlight of the Tryon Spring 8 FEI CSI 5* (June 8-12). Breyer Brunello models will be available for purchase at Tryon Tack beginning Friday, June 10th. Only 400 models will be available for the launch and each model will come with a special mini Breyer TIEC blanket only available at this show, while supplies last! Purchases limited to 2 models per person.

The weekend will kick off with a special presentation of the first Brunello portrait models to be created for Brunello’s owners Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd, and longtime groom Alberto Ramirez on Friday evening, June 10th, during the Hunter Derby under the lights in the George Morris Arena at TIEC. Boyd and Brunello are preparing to compete in the Hunter Derby, offering fans and spectators a chance to see this historic pair live in competition.

On Saturday, June 11th, from 2:00-6:00 P.M., Breyer will host free Stablemates painting activities, demonstrations by model horse hobby artists including sculptor Morgen Kilbourn, equine color genetics expert Lesli Kathman, as well as fun model horse showing with Michelle Masters. Breyer’s mascot Pal will visit and there will be raffles and contests for prizes. Event activities will be held in the Special Pavilion tent overlooking the George Morris Arena.

Liza Boyd will be available for autographs (limited to 200) from 4:00-5:00 P.M. and Brunello will make an appearance at 5:00 P.M. as well for photographs. When asked what makes Brunello so special, Liza Boyd said, “Brunello–B: Brave to gallop under the lights. R: Rideable, to turn oh-so-tight; U: Unique, not your typical hunter type. N: Naughty-In his stall he will bite. E: Ego he thinks he’s always right. L: Longevity-At 18 he’s still jumping with height. L: Lexington-three times he has had a magical derby night. O: Owl-For his wisdom and insight.”

Tryon International Equestrian Center is a state of the art equestrian facility located in Mill Spring, North Carolina. The venue offers competitors access to an array of equestrian sports including hunter/jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions throughout the year. The facility, which officially opened in 2014, began its inaugural year for FEI competition in 2015. This year, TIEC is set to host two CSI 5* competitions, as well as the prestigious Nutrena® USEA American Eventing Championships in early September, as well as two FEI CDI 3* competitions for dressage riders. TIEC is conveniently located just 45 minutes from Asheville, NC, and an hour from Charlotte, NC, in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Tryon Riding and Hunt Club (TRHC), an important supporter of the equestrian community in the Western Carolinas, sparked the discussion regarding the creation of a Brunello Breyer model, as co-owner Janet Peterson is a longtime member of the organization. A social media campaign initiated by TRHC, has been tremendously influential in recognizing and honoring the remarkable career accolades of Boyd and Brunello.

“Having a Breyer model of Brunello to celebrate his accomplishments is something very special. He is a wonderful horse and is incredibly well loved by all of those involved with him, including myself, Liza Boyd, and her father Jack Towell,” said Peterson. “I’m very much looking forward to this replica of him, as well as the ceremony that is planned for June 10th. He has a large fan base and following in the Carolinas and I hope that everyone will join us for the festivities to honor his achievements.”

For those who can’t be at TIEC for the presentation, Breyer and TIEC will host an online sweepstakes offering six (6) Brunello models with TIEC model blankets signed by Liza Boyd via the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) and Breyer Facebook pages and as well as the Tryon International Equestrian Center on Facebook and Breyer Instagram pages! Stay tuned for more information!

Ticket Information
Spectators are welcome to attend the Tryon Spring 8 FEI CSI 5* at the Tryon International Equestrian Center free of charge. Breyer activities are also free of charge (while supplies last). The Breyer Brunello model debut is limited to 400 models at this show and will be sold on a first come, first served basis at Tryon Tack along with a mini Breyer TIEC model blanket as a special souvenir of the weekend. The standard Breyer Brunello model will be available nationwide in July 2016. TIEC is located at 4066 Pea Ridge Rd., in Mill Spring, NC. For more information, please visit TIEC at www.tryon.com or Breyer at www.breyerhorses.com.

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Hardin Towell Scores Big Chinese Win

Hardin Towell and New York - Stefano Grasso/LGCT Photo

Jack Hardin Towell of the USA stole the show at the Longines Global Champions Tour Shanghai on Friday, April 29, winning the CSI5* 1.50/1.55m feature class of the day, and taking the lion’s share of the $377,500 prize money.

A phenomenal 15-rider jump-off meant that Towell, who was riding Jennifer Gates’ 10-year-old KWPN gelding New York (Verdi x Watzmann), had his work cut out for him, especially with the world’s top three riders on his tail.

World No. 3 Scott Brash of Great Britain finished agonizingly close – just a tenth of a second behind the American – after an impressive showing with the 10-year-old Oldenburg gelding Hello Forever (For Pleasure x Nimmerdor). Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano continued his exceptional form after winning the first class of the day; he placed third on the 10-year-old Oldenburg stallion Caspar 232 (Casper x Padarco).

The intensity of the competition was fierce, with many of the world’s best horse-and-rider combinations on form ahead of Saturday’s Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Shanghai. The show is being held for the third year in Shanghai, China, in front of the historic China Arts Palace. The crowd was on the edge of their seats until the very last fence of the class, with final rider Michael Whitaker and his 14 year old KWPN gelding, the eye-catching Viking, powering round the full height class, and looking strong to take the win. But it was not to be, as groans erupted from the watching audience as they rolled the final pole, and despite crossing the line in 34.95 seconds, which would have won the class, they picked up four faults to finish in 12th.

The jump-off course called for every trick in the box, with the double of verticals requiring careful set up, seeing a delicate combination before a flat out gallop spanning three quarters of the arena to the last, with a solid hedged fence to finish.

World No 1, Simon Delestre of France, came a strong fourth with the 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding Chesall Zimequest (Casall x Concerto), with other combinations of note Maikel van der Vleuten with VDL Groep Verdi TN N.O.P; Gerco Schröder and Glock’s Zaranza (showing for the first time on the 2016 season); Christian Ahlmann with Cornado II; Ludger Beerbaum and Chaman, Edwina Tops-Alexander with Lintea Tequila and Gregory Wathelet with Eldorado van het Vijverhof all in the fast paced jump-off.

But it was Towell and New York who took the title this afternoon, crossing the line in 35.18 seconds, and winning the class at the final gallop ahead of Brash and Hello Forever’s time of 35.28 seconds.

Earlier in the day, speed demon Gaudiano of Italy was simply untouchable in a sensational showcase of speed and agility in the opening CSI5* class of the Shanghai Longines Global Champions Tour. The Italian rider, well known for his prowess and incredible pace, took out every stride possible, riding his big striding dark bay 10-year-old mare Guess 6 to win the two phase 1.45m competition, with the second half of the round in an incredible 19.84 seconds, almost a full three seconds clear of the field.

David Will of Germany and his experienced 16-year-old chestnut mare Mic Mac du Tillard put in a strong performance to come in second but crossed the line in 22.34 seconds. He was closely followed by Delestre who rode Stardust Quinhon to third in 23.10 seconds. Other notable performances saw Eduardo Menezes of Brazil with Caruschka 2 in 4th, Puis Schwizer of Switzerland and Electric Z come in 5th, Great Britain’s Laura Renwick with MHS Washington in 6th, while Hong Kong’s Kenneth Cheng and Dragon Leon finished 8th.

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Finally Farm Celebrates at Aiken Spring Classic Masters

Liza Boyd celebrated her birthday with the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby victory aboard Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said (A&S Photography)

Finally Farm’s Liza Boyd couldn’t have asked for a better birthday present on Saturday April 23 when she guided Pony Lane Farm’s Like I Said to the victory in the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, held April 23 during the Aiken spring Classic Masters in Aiken, South Carolina.

“It was a great day,” said Boyd, who also placed third overall with Pony Lane Farm’s Coronado and 12th with her own Shamrock. “After the show, we went out to dinner at Casa Bella in Aiken and had a wonderful dinner out on the patio.”

Like I Said, an 8-year-old Mecklenburg mare by Callie Seaman’s Holsteiner stallion Carrico (Catkin—Kapitale), is following in her sire’s footsteps as a top derby contender.

“Now that I’ve gotten to know her, she’s really fun to ride,” said Liza. “After the first time I showed her I called Larry (Glefke, her former trainer) for some advice. He said, ‘You’re trying to be too perfect. Kick her and go.’ So, I followed his advice and just kicked and galloped. It turns out the more you challenge her, the better she is. He was spot on.”

Liza and “Sally” went first in the Classic Hunter Round and set a bar no one else could match, so they returned last for the Handy Round.

Fellow professional Havens Schatt had just jumped into the lead aboard John Yozell’s Breeze while Liza and Sally stood at the in-gate as the final entries to take the course. The class was theirs to win or lose.

“Havens went for it and did all of the high options and took over the lead,” said Liza. “Havens didn’t make it easy for me! I thought, ‘Now, I have to go for it. I can’t jump the low options.’ So, I just went for it, too. Sally’s more seasoned, and Kelley (Farmer, her former rider) asked her these questions before, so I felt comfortable having now shown her twice. She scored 92 and 92 as her base scores before high options and handy points, so she was on it.

“The first fence in the Handy was a big oxer that you had to canter to directly from the gate,” continued Liza. “I could see that I was really far away, and I was like ‘Oh no, I’m really long here.’ It was a little bit like that last jump on Brunello at the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships—I was either going to chip or be a hero, and out of nowhere she pushed up and over the fence brilliantly and did just what I asked. The rest of the course was great, and she was excellent doing the tight turns. A good horse gives you room for error, and she’s a really good horse.”

Liza also placed third aboard Pony Lane Farm’s young stallion Coronado, and she was also pleased with his performance.

“I went back in the Handy on ‘Baby Brunello,’ and he was great,” she said, of the chestnut who resembles her famous partner. “With him being 6 years old, I did choose the low option to the first fence. He has huge scope, but he’s still a little green. Everywhere else he did the high options and the inside turns. More and more he reminds me of Ike, with such range and scope that you can be long and deep and he covers it up for you. His brain is fantastic, too, and he’s not afraid of anything, while at the same time he’s not dull. He’s quite careful and aware and sharp. I’m really excited about him.”

Liza credited her Finally Farm team for their support, dedication and talent, which allowed her to ride three horses into the top 12 of the derby (she also placed 12th with Shamrock) and focus on the riding and strategy.

“I’m so, so lucky right now to have the best staff and support team,” she emphasized. “In the schooling area I had Tamara (Berkowitz) flatting and Randi Button there with the horses. Like I Said loves her, and they’ve already bonded in the short time we’ve had the mare. You have to do things her way, and it carries over to the ring as well. So, you can tell that mare truly likes Randi and feels comfortable and safe.”

Liza also credited Max Mandel for going the extra mile—literally. “Max, who rides the horses at home, wanted to drive down to the show after working at the farm all day to see the derby. He said, ‘I ride these horses at home, and it helps me to watch them compete and know what I should be working on.’ It’s really hard to find people who care so much and want to learn. Tamara prepared the mare, rode her and did everything for her before the class. All they do makes my job easier and allows me to focus on the course and my plan. I don’t have to stress about what’s happening back at the barn, and that’s a wonderful thing,” she said.

Stella Styslinger and Zola Thompson with Invincible

Stella Styslinger also benefitted from the Finally Farm team effort. She won a slew of blue ribbons, including victory in the ASPCA Maclay with Centerfold K, the 3’6” Junior Hunter championship aboard Invincible and first and second places on Invincible and O’Ryan, respectively, in the Junior Hunter Classic.

Liza was especially thrilled with Stella’s riding on the big grass field at Aiken, which isn’t the typical show environment these days, with the distances between fences often more than 10 strides.

“Out there on that grass field it’s hard when you show in rings most of the time,” said Liza. “You really need a seasoned horse, and ‘Shaq’ has seen so much and been everywhere with owner Ellen Toon that he was phenomenal. He knows his job and jumped beautifully out there over the big, solid fences. I know Ellen would have been happy to see him go so well, and we are always thanking her so much for sharing him with us. Shaq and Stella are a great match, and he goes better for her than for me! He loves her because she stays out of his way, and clearly he knows what he’s doing, and she lets him do it, and it’s fun to watch.”

Liza also offered a shout-out to Zola Thompson for winning the Medium Pony Hunter stake class aboard Elegance. Liza credited Stella for all of her hard work recently. “She came down to Camden the past couple of weeks for lessons and jumped cavaletti without stirrups. She’s such a trooper, and she’s starting to get stronger and that hard work is paying off. I was really proud of her.”

Erin McGuire and Kasarr continued their consistent performances in the grand prix arena, with a fourth in the $7,500 Welcome Stake and fourth in the $25,000 Aiken Grand Prix. Impressively, they jumped double-clear in both of their classes.

The Children’s and Adult Jumper riders also scored great ribbons at Aiken. Chacor and Brie Tiffany earned the High Adult Jumper reserve Championship, while Hiho Houdini with Grace Howard and Justified and Kelly Maloney earning top ribbons.

Croft Original and Lily Bennett earned excellent ribbons in the High Children’s as well.

“Those horses were all prepared by Tamara during the week in the 1.10m and 1.15m jumpers, and I have to thank her for getting them all so well prepared. She’s a strong and confident rider and sets them up so well for the kids,” said Liza, who again reiterated how important the whole team is to their success.

“From Tamara and Max who ride the horses and prepare them, to Randi who is such great horsewoman and knows the horses so well, it’s a team effort. They all give me important feedback that helps in the training and care of the horses, from the ring to the feeding program and how they’re feeling. All three know their jobs so well, and, of course, Alberto (Ramirez) is the boss of all of us—he tells all of us what we’re doing wrong and right! I feel so fortunate to have a great team who care and are so dedicated.”

Posted on April 26, 2016 by Tricia Booker.