Top Finishes For Finally Farm at WEF 2

McKayla Langmeier and Quatrain

Finally Farm added a variety of tricolor ribbons to the collection during Week 2 of the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit in Wellington, Florida.

Champions during the show, held January 20-24, included Nevada and Maggie Hill in the Low Children’s Hunters, Quatrain and McKayla Langmeier in the Small Juniors and Aruba Z and Liza Boyd in the Pre-Greens.

Reserve champions included Look Again with Ruby Sloan and Liza, taking reserve honors in the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under section and the WEF 3’ Open Hunters, respectively, and Cellino and Liza in the 3’6” Performance Working Hunters.

Quatrain and McKayla were featured in the Equestrian Sport Productions News on January 24, distributed by Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

McKayla Langmeier and Quatrain Win the Equestrian Sotheby's Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under Division Championship

The Equestrian Sotheby's Small Junior Hunter 15 & Under division wrapped up on Sunday morning in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring with championship honors awarded to McKayla Langmeier, of East Granby, CT, and Quatrain. The pair earned first, second, and two third placed ribbons over fences on their way to the division championship. Daisy Farish rode Casares, who is owned by James Lala and Virginia Confer, to the reserve champion honors. Farish and Casares were the victors of Sunday's stake class. The pair also placed sixth, third, and fourth over fences.

Quatrain is a Westphalian gelding owned by Laura Critz and trained by Jack Towell. Winning the tricolor honors this week was especially exciting for Langmeier because it was her inaugural show with the 12-year-old gelding. While Langmeier had never shown Quatrain before this weekend, she hopes this win secures her the opportunity to show him again in the future. Langmeier has piloted other horses trained by Towell to success in the past, including championships aboard Khaki Run LLC's horse, Castelli.    

"He is really awesome and easy to ride," Langmeier explained about riding Quatrain. "I had a blast riding him."

Langmeier especially enjoyed the courses set in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring on Sunday. "They were suited to my horse. He has a big, easy stride and that made the lines easy,” she said.

Langmeier hopes to continue showing Quatrain over the next 10 weeks of competition at the Winter Equestrian Festival. She also aims to secure a spot in the $100,000 WCHR/USHJA Peter Wetherill Palm Beach Hunter Spectacular, which will be held in the International Arena during WEF 6.

Liza and Jack chose McKayla to ride Quatrain this year because owner Laura Critz went off to college in the fall and regretfully is selling him.

“McKayla’s a wonderful, soft rider, and she rode him like she’d been showing him forever,” added Liza “Their performance was also a testament to his adaptability, and they were super together in the handy. I’m really thankful to McKayla and her family for working with us.”

Zola Thompson, Ruby Sloan, Liza Boyd and Maggie Hill

Maggie Hill continued her winning streak, moving up to earn the Low Children’s Hunter tricolor aboard Nevada after excellent ribbons last week. This year, the Wyoming-based rider is staying in Wellington for the circuit, and Liza sees steady improvement from the consistent riding and training she’s receiving.

“It’s wonderful that she’s down here and being exposed to all of the great riders and practicing every day,” said Liza. “We’ve really been working on lessons and training in between the show days.

“Maggie’s challenge is that she has a ‘long eye.’ Meaning, she looks for the longer distances to the fences instead of adding a stride,” explained Liza. “Here, we’ve focused on how important it is for her to ride between the fences. Sometimes Nevada lands low, so she’s learned to give him a half-halt so he rocks back on his hind end while also keeping that medium canter around the turns so she has choices in her distances. She’s really progressed well after just two weeks.”

Look Again rose to the occasion for owner Ruby Sloan and Liza with two reserve tricolors. Look Again had never attended WEF, so last week Ruby competed him in the Low Children’s Hunters at 2’6” before tackling the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, section at 3 feet.

“I was so proud of them both,” said Liza. “He’s a first year green horse and new to WEF, and there’s so much activity here that he was bug-eyed that first week so we were conservative. This week, I did him in the WEF 3’ hunters and felt he was ready to move up.” 

Maggie Hill, Jack Towell and Ruby Sloan

Ruby and Look Again collected a first and two thirds over fences and sixth in the under saddle for the reserve championship out of 41 entries.

“She rode smartly and had to hold his hand in the first class, and he got stronger and more confident in every class after that,” noted Liza. “There’s so much to look at around the ring, but by the second day he took a deep breath. She’d only shown 3’ once before, so she’s green, too. But she stepped up, got better and ended up with some great results.”

Liza and Pony Lane Farm’s stallion Coronado earned excellent ribbons in the First Year Green and Regular Conformation sections.

“He has such a good brain that I thought it would be nice for him to jump the 3’9” in the Regular Conformation,” she said. “He had the top call in the second over fences class on the first day and then moved back. He was also fourth in the model, which was a very nice ribbon in that company.”

Liza was especially pleased that his best performance was over the handy course, since her goal is to point Coronado toward the USHJA International Hunter Derby classes.

“He really showed me that he’s going to excel in the handy classes,” she said. “The handy course was really was hard. I saw experienced horses that were green in that class, and I was thrilled that he got the high score. He also got an 87.5 in the First Years, which ended up third.”

Liza chose not to show Coronado in the Regular Conformation on the second day of competition after he did so well in the First Years.

“I think you have to be more careful with a stallion to keep his mind good,” she said. “From my own limited experience with them, I’ve found they really try for you, and once they do what you want you don’t want to mentally fry them. It would be interesting to ask someone who deals with stallions on a regular basis. I’ve found that sometimes I have to be more assertive with him and sometimes I play with him and give in and do it his way. You can’t be too easy on them, but you also don’t want to break their spirits. It’s a fine line, but I couldn’t be happier with him this week.”

Liza also returned to her roots this week, showing a 3’ Pre-Green Hunter named Aruba Z for trainer Andrew Lustig. Liza purchased her famous junior hunter Monday Morning from Andrew way back in the 1990s, and he sought her out for this particular mount.

“Andrew told me that this one feels like Monday Morning to ride, and he does,” said Liza laughing. “It’s like a blast from the past! He ended up champion and is a lovely horse. Andrew prepares his horses so well, so I literally walked up, hopped on, jumped four fences and went in the ring. It was fun to ride for him.”

Out of 40 entries, the pair earned a first, two seconds and a fourth over fences for the title.

Liza’s young horse string this week also included Sawyer, a 4-year-old Holsteiner owned by long-time client Elizabeth “Liz” Fogleman. The pair earned ribbons in every class of the Pre-Green 3- and 4-year-old Hunters.

Sawyer modeling his ribbons!

Liz traveled to Europe last fall and picked out Sawyer (Casall—Iskia V) from Hans Dings Stables, and Liza has high hopes for the talented young horse.

“She’s been riding with us for six years, and is an amateur, who works so hard,” said Liza. “Liz was so excited. He’ll go on to be a nice 3’6” horse for her. He was quite green when she got him, and he’s come so far with help from Jeanne Smith of Clear View Farm, who we think of as the ‘lead change queen of the south!’ He lives with Liz most of the time, and it’s so nice to see someone like that who does it all herself.” 

Hardin Towell also made his 2016 WEF debut with excellent ribbons aboard a variety of mounts. A highlight was his victory with Jennifer Gates’ Cadence in the $8,000 1.45m, sponsored by Douglas Eilman Real Estate.

Kenneth Kraus, of PhelpsSports.com, also featured Hardin in a January 24 profile piece titled “A Conversation With Jack Hardin Towell,” which touched on Hardin’s past, present and future in the show jumping world. A special thanks to Ken for the wonderful article!

Hardin Towell and Cadence

Shamrock Stars During WEF 1

Shamrock

In between attending the USEF Annual Meeting to receive the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy, Liza Boyd and her father/trainer Jack Towell, enjoyed the first week of the annual Winter Equestrian Festival circuit in Wellington, Florida, from January 13-17.

Finally Farm horses and riders had an especially successful Week 1, with multiple tricolor ribbons as well as blues now adorning the tack room banner.

Liza started the week out strongly with the championship in the 3’6” Performance Working Hunter section aboard her newest chestnut hunter, Shamrock.

Finally Farm purchased Shamrock after the fall indoor horse shows, and Liza hopes the former event horse will become one of next derby stars. “He’s a very nice horse, and we’re super excited about him,” she said.  

Shamrock and Liza made their debut at WEF on Wednesday in the Grand Hunter Ring, where Liza said with a laugh, “He jumped ridiculously high.”

Nevertheless, several horsemen at the rail noticed him and gave Liza the thumbs up. “He jumped so high and careful that we decided not to do Second Year Greens at 3’9” with him this week,” she said. “There’s no rush.”

Instead, Liza and Jack pointed Shamrock to the 3’6” Performance Working Hunters on Thursday.

“I really wanted him to show one more day,” she said. “So, he went in and was brave and careful and won both classes and was champion. Mentally, he’s still a little green, but on Thursday he was so focused and relaxed. I was so proud of him.”

Liza will assess Shamrock’s progress each week before deciding which section he will show in. She’s also doing the same with Pony Lane Farm’s Coronado, the third chestnut in her string who competes in the First Year Green section. She hopes the trio will be ready to compete in some of the USHJA International Hunter Derby classes later in the circuit and also during WCHR week in mid-February.

“I don’t know if Shamrock and Coronado will be ready for the WCHR Hunter Classic Spectacular under the lights in the International Ring, but if they do qualify and compete they would leave here better horses,” she noted. “I hope to take all three to HITS Ocala for the $100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby. In addition to the greener horses, I will still have Ike, so the pressure is on him. He can handle it! Shamrock and Coronado can go in learn and go home by the spring ready to rock and roll in those derbies.”

Stella Styslinger made news during WEF 1 with her championship in the Small Junior Hunter, 16-17, section, and was featured with O’Ryan in the Equestrian Sport Productions News on January 16, distributed by Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.

Stella Styslinger and O'Ryan Top the Field in EnTrust Capital Small Junior Hunters 16-17

The EnTrust Capital Small Junior Hunter 16-17 division finished today, and a new combination took the championship. Sixteen-year-old Stella Styslinger of Birmingham, AL, and O'Ryan won the top tricolor after winning two over fences classes, adding fourth and fifth place ribbons, and placing second in the under saddle.

Stella Styslinger and O'Ryan (Sportfot Photo)

Styslinger is still getting to know O'Ryan as their partnership just formed two weeks ago. "This is my first horse show with him," she said with a smile. "I have two large juniors. He rides pretty similar to them. I've had [them] for a bit longer, so it's helped me ride [O'Ryan] better. He almost rides like an equitation horse, but he jumps and moves well enough for the hunters. He's so easy and is as quiet as he can be. He's easy to deal with."

While she is still learning about him and his quirks - "He likes to be by himself and do his own thing. We give him treats, but he likes to be alone," she described - Styslinger is excited about the great start to her second year at WEF.

Stella Styslinger and O'Ryan (Sportfot Photo)

"It feels like it's going to be a great season down here. I'm excited," she said.

Liza was also thrilled with Stella’s debut week at the show. “She has a whole new group this year with three really nice horses,” she said of O’Ryan, Invincible and Cellino. Stella is leasing her three new hunters—in addition to her equitation horse, Centerfold K—and Liza expressed her thanks to the owners for allowing their horses to join the Finally Farm team.

Liza also guided O’Ryan to a blue ribbon in the 3’6” Performance Working Hunters and described him as a fun horse to ride with a great jump.

Lily Bennett also made a debut during WEF 1. With her partner, Croft Original, Lily jumped to eighth of 62 in the Low Children’s Jumper Classic.

“Lily had never done the jumpers ever, and she did so well,” said Liza. “It was a great welcome to the jumper ring for her. She has a big future in this ring, and I was really proud of her. This mileage will make her a stronger Junior Hunter rider, and I think she’ll have a lot of fun, too,”

In the Masters jumpers, Justified and Kelly Maloney scored some excellent ribbons, with a highlight fourth in the $10,000 Don Little Masters Jumper Classic. Kelly bred the 9-year-old bay Dutch Warmblood mare, who is out of her Amateur-Owner jumper Kisses and by the top Dutch stallion Indoctro.

“This is a really special horse for Kelly. The mother passed away recently, and for the daughter to step up and do so well is a testament to Kelly’s breeding and training,” said Liza. “I see a great partnership ahead for the two of them.”

Maggie Hill and her two hunters Nevada and Tasty took top ribbons in the Low Children’s Hunters. The Wyoming-based young rider will spend the winter in Wellington, Florida, and Liza looks forward to seeing her progress in her riding.

“This will be the first year she’ll be staying down here for the entire circuit, and it will give her time to focus on some great lessons in addition to showing,” said Liza. “Spending time in the ring is wonderful, but often the behind-the-scenes learning is just as important.”

Alberto Ramirez with, from left, Ellie and Maggie Hill, Ruby Sloan and Zola Thompson enjoyed the first week of the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit.

Brunello Is USEF National Horse of the Year Again!

From:  The United States Equestrian Federation

January 16, 2016 - Lexington, Ky. - On a night dedicated to the horse, two special athletes were recognized for their excellence in 2015 during the USEF's Year-End Awards Gala. In a year that witnessed equestrian athletes excel, PVF Peace of Mind and Brunello reached the pinnacle of their sports and for their achievements were named International and National Horse of the Year, respectively.

Voting was open to the public through January and both horses, already fan favorites, were rewarded for their tremendous results throughout 2015 with support from voters.

Brunello: National Horse of the Year
1998 Hanoverian gelding
Owners: Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd

Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd's Brunello has been turning heads in the hunter ring with his signature style and consistent top placings for years. With Boyd in the tack, the pair has been a fixture in USHJA International Hunter Derby competitions since the program's inception and scored their biggest victory in August when they won their third consecutive USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in Lexington, Ky. The pair won both the Classic Hunter Round and the Section A Handy Hunter Round on their way to securing this unprecedented victory.

U.S. Equestrian Federation interim CEO Bill Moroney presented the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy to Liza Boyd, who owns National Horse of the Year Brunello with Janet Peterson. (Nancy Jaffer)

Boyd was on-hand for the Equestrian of the Year proceedings on Friday night, January 15, for which she won the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy for the third consecutive year.

Because she was unable to stay for the Horse of the Year award, Bill Moroney read a tribute Boyd wrote for Brunello, "Everything has been said already about his career and his achievements," she noted, "so I thought about what makes him so special to me and all of the special attributes he has. I came up with this:

"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." 

To see the video honoring Brunello at the USEF Year End Awards Gala on USEF Network, please click here.

Fantastic in Florida

The Finally Farm team traveled to Wellington, Florida, last week to prepare for the 2016 Winter Equestrian Festival where they'll be based for the winter season.

Elle Boyd and Stella Styslinger relaxing in Florida

In contrast to the fun and excitement of a new show season, the Finally Farm family spent time this week mourning the loss of friends and fellow equestrians Andres "Chepito" Rodriquez and Sophie Walker, who died on Monday January 4 in an automobile accident in Wellington. Their memorial services were held on Friday.

"It was a really tough week. Andres was one of my brother's best friends," said trainer Liza Boyd of her brother Hardin Towell. "They were all so close, along with Sophie and her husband Brian Walker. Hardin spoke at Andres' service and we all attended. Their loss was huge, and we will miss them terribly."

Liza and her dad Jack Towell spent the weekend teaching lessons and riding the horses and ponies that traveled from Camden, South Carolina to Florida. "Our horses are settled in now and doing well," she said. "Typically, we don't come down a week early, but it was so nice to let the horses settle in and have the clients came down in time to have lessons. Everyone’s getting back into shape. The lessons were super, and the horses look great."

Liza expects to have about 28 horses showing on the circuit under the Finally Farm banner, including a few new faces as well as some veterans, including her three-time USHJA International Hunter Derby Champion Brunello, who is making the trip to Florida this year for the first time in several years. 

Elle takes a break from the heat!

Liza and Assistant Trainer Tamara Berkowitz have spent time hacking "Ike" around the show grounds, drawing lots of double-takes from his many fans. "It's fun  riding him around the horse show because you get a lot of attention," said Liza laughing. 

Liza intends to show Ike in a few jumper classes on the WEF circuit and then travel to HITS Ocala for the Ocala Masters IV featuring the WCHR week and the $100,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby on Saturday March 27.

"I think he feels amazing," said Liza of the 18-year-old Hanoverian. "He's fresh and happy, and you can tell how glad he is to be here."

Liza  is also thrilled to travel to Kentucky at the end of this week to accept her third Equestrian of Honor/Emerson Burr Trophy during the United States Equestrian Federation Annual Meeting. She and Brunello have also been nominated for the USEF Equestrian and Horse of the Year titles, which will be awarded based on votes cast. 

"What an honor it is to receive the Emerson Burr Award once again. When I went to the awards ceremony last time I realized how special it was and how everyone winning these trophies in the various breeds and disciplines are equally as important," said Liza. "I plan to give a little acceptance speech and let everyone know how much I appreciate receiving this amazing honor." 

This winter Liza is also looking forward a new partner in the barn named Shamrock and seeing where his talents take him. Finally Farm purchased the former event horse, now a 7-year-old, last fall as a derby prospect, and he will make his WEF debut in the Second Year Green Hunters.  

"For me, he’s a perfect age," said Liza. "He's also a big chestnut like we like! I want to thank J.M. Durr who sold him to us," she added. "He brought him a long nicely in the eventing world and did the 6-year-old young jumpers with him. He has a good foundation and has been out there and seen a lot. From his cross-country background, Shamrock should step into the derbies with confidence. He's also competed in the International Ring at the Tryon Horse Show, so he has solid experience.. He's still green as a hunter, but he’s got the ability and now he just needs some mileage. I really like this horse, and that’s so important in a partnership. When you believe in a horse you can go a long way together."

Finally Farm's new derby prospect, Shamrock.

Shamrock joins Ike and Pony Lane Farm's Coronado, all chestnuts, in the open sections under Liza's guidance.. "It's funny. They look very similar, but they’re all different to ride," she said. "I'm very excited to have these up-and-coming youngsters in addition to Ike. They're both super scopey, which I love." 

Finally Farm horses and riders will step into the show ring this week for WEF 1. "The energy is high, and everyone seems so happy to be here," noted Liza. "I want to wish our clients the best of luck in the New Year, and I'm looking forward to a successful and fun circuit together!"

Liza Boyd Wins Third Consecutive USEF Emerson Burr Trophy

Brunello and Liza Boyd. Tricia Booker/USHJA Archives Photo

Liza Boyd and Brunello were once again crowned the elite of the equestrian world! They have both been nominated for the United States Equestrian Federation's highest honors: the 2015 Equestrian of the Year and Horse of the Year! 

For the third consecutive year, Liza received the Emerson Burr Trophy, which is presented to a rider in the hunter divisions in any breed over fences. 

"It’s a huge honor to receive this trophy," said Liza. " Emerson was someone I looked up to and respected when I was a kid. It's very humbling, and I'm honored to have my name on that trophy." 

Liza is one of nine Equestrians of Honor from the various breeds and disciplines under the USEF umbrella, and your votes are an integral part in deciding which of the nation's leading equestrians will be named the USEF's 2015 Equestrian of the Year.

Liza has long been regarded as one of the top hunter professionals in the industry, having won 30 USHJA International Hunter Derbies, including consecutive wins in the 2013, 2014, and 2015 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships.

In 2015, Liza took home the title at the Atlanta Spring Classic International Hunter Derby, and placed third overall at the Devon Horse Show International Hunter Derby. She also finished the year first in the Southeast Region and eighth nationally in the World Championship Hunter Professional Riders standings.

Brunello, a 17-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Janet Peterson and Liza, was nominated for the 2015 USEF Horse of the Year honors for the National divisions, an honor he also received in 2013.

Brunello has been turning heads in the hunter ring with his signature style and consistent top placings for years. With Boyd in the tack, "Ike" has been a fixture in International Hunter Derby competitions since the program's inception. They won their third consecutive USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in Lexington, Kentucky, this year with an amazing performance that many said was the epitome of what a true show hunter and derby horse should be.  

“This year was surreal and better than any other year,” said Liza. “The Handy Hunter round at the Derby Championships was simply magical. I was so nervous before I went in the ring, and then got in there and just relaxed and enjoyed every moment. It was one of those rounds you always strive for with a hunter, that feeling of perfection and smoothness.

“The Handy that night was really the result of years of hard work,” she continued. “All of the work we do on the flat and the many hours my father has put into that horse, training, strengthening and improving his self-carriage, and it all carried over. That’s why Ike was so brilliant and so square with his front end and landed on both leads. He was fit and in perfect balance. It takes a long, long time to have a horse physically and mentally that fit. It was Ike’s time to shine, and he was up to the challenge even with all of that pressure. To win a third consecutive Derby Championship takes a seasoned horse, and the bond we’ve had over so many years culminated in that performance. We both trust and believe in each other, and it showed that night.”

Voting will run through midnight ET January 4, 2016. The USEF Equestrian of the Year will be announced on January 15, 2016 during the 2015 USEF Pegasus Awards Gala. This is the third consecutive year Boyd has been awarded the Emerson Burr Trophy and in the running for the USEF Equestrian of the Year award. Let's make this third year the charm!

Vote for USEF Horse of the Year: bit.ly/HOTY15
Vote for USEF Equestrian of the Year: bit.ly/EOTY15

Please note that this year's voting procedure includes email verification, so make sure to check for the link in your email so your vote counts!

Grand Finale at Atlanta Fall Classic II

Erin McGuire and Kasarr

Finally Farm riders and horses concluded their 2015 show season with great results during the Atlanta Fall Classic II, held November 11-15 in Conyers, Georgia.

Erin McGuire and Kasarr finished the year with a bang, earning the High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Championship, winning the Classic and taking the coveted Circuit Championship.

"For Erin, school is her priority, so she only shows in the spring and summer and little bit in the fall," said trainer Liza Boyd. "This was a great way for her to finish out her show season, and we are so proud of her. Kasarr is the only horse she has right now because she's focusing on classes and internships at the University of South Carolina. She'll start back up in the spring and, hopefully, do some of the smaller Aiken Grand Prix classes.

Liza Boyd, Erin McGuire and Kasarr

"Last winter not only did she keep Kasarr in work but she was also in charge of his fitness and training schedule here at home while we were in Florida," Liza added. "She has a very hands-on approach, and their success together is due in part to the strong bond they've formed outside of the show ring."

Stella Styslinger continued her banner fall show season with championship results aboard Cellino in the Large Junior Hunters. She also won the ASPCA Maclay aboard Centerfold K for the second consecutive week, a testament to her continued focus on improving the technicalities of her riding. 

"Stella is really riding well and thinking forward," said Liza. "She's riding the handy courses so confidently now, and the tough bending lines are becoming easier for her to master. I can see her confidence level is a lot stronger, and winning the Maclay both weeks is a huge accomplishment."

Zola Thompson and Elegance

Liza also had success two weeks in a row, guiding Pony Lane Farm's Coronado to his second consecutive Pre-Green Hunter Championship. "I'm really impressed with his brain and ability. He’s a great horse with a bright future, and I'm looking forward to seeing where his talents take him this winter in Florida and beyond."

Pony rider Zola Thompson is also preparing for the 2016 show season and stepped aboard her new mount Elegance for the first time with banner results. "I want to thank Robin Greenwood for this very special pony," said Liza. "Zola and Elegance are a great match. This was the first time she’s ever shown her and done the Medium Ponies. Zola hadn’t shown since Blowing Rock in July, so receiving two second-placed ribbons on the second day was wonderful. We're very excited about this great new partnership."

Finally Farm resumes their show schedule in January on the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit in Wellington, Florida. In the meantime, Liza and her father Jack Towell will teach at home and give clinics while spending the holidays with family and friends at their home base in Camden, South Carolina.

New Partnerships at Atlanta Fall Classic I

The end of the show season is bittersweet for many riders who must say good-bye to their leased partners, but it's also the time when new partnerships are formed. The Finally Farm team experienced both during the Atlanta Fall Classic I, held November 4-8 in Conyers, Georgia.

Ruby Sloan and Highlands Heaven Sent enjoyed their final show together in the Medium Pony section with top ribbons, while Ruby also experienced her first show aboard a horse. She guided Rebecca Baker's Look Again to the Pre-Children's Hunter championship and won the Classic in their debut together.

Elle Boyd and Tamara Berkowitz cheer on the Finally Farm riders at Atlanta

"Ruby graduated from ponies during Atlanta," said trainer Liza Boyd. "Highlands Heaven Sent went back to trainer Bill Schaub, and we found her a Children’s hunter the same week. It couldn’t have been more perfect." 

Finally Farm trainers had been scouting for a Children's Hunter prospect for Ruby when Look Again caught their eye at at the Tryon Horse Show. He came from Amanda Forte and Debbie Wilson of Cerulean Stables.  "Ruby leased him, and he's going to be a great stepping stone for her to the horses," said Liza. "He could be a 3’3” junior horse as well, so we hope to have him for a while. This was their first time showing together, and they're already a great match."

Liza credited Ruby's ponies for helping to provide her with a solid base. "She came out of the ring after the second day and asked, 'What’s the handy course?" said Liza laughing. "She won't be doing a handy for a while in the Children's Hunters, but she's been well prepared when she does move up. We’re very excited to have him in the barn and congratulate Ruby on her new horse."

Stella Styslinger is also forging new partnerships this fall and earned championships in both sections of the Large Junior Hunter section (California split) aboard Ellen Toon's Invincible and Julie Thompson's Cellino.

"This was her first time showing Cellino, and she hopped right on and went in and was great," said Liza. "They are both nice, seasoned horses, and we feel honored to have them in the barn. Stella has two more years in the juniors, and her goals are to continue to learn and be a  successful junior hunter rider."

Stella is keeping Centerfold K, the equitation horse she began leasing from Henge Hill Investments last year, and won the Pessoa/USEF Medal and the ASPCA Maclay in Atlanta this week. "Stella doesn't do the equitation to go to finals, but instead to make herself a better rider in the handy hunters," said Liza. "We want her to have fun and learn as much as she can, and Centerfold is the perfect equitation horse."

Liza wasn't without her own tricolor honors as she guided Pony Lane Farm's Coronado to the Pre-Green Hunter championship.

"Coronado hadn’t shown since September and has only shown once since we got him," said Liza of the 5-year-old Zangersheide stallion (by Coriano Z). "He couldn’t have been better. He’s so brave, and we don’t even  have to get him in the ring in the morning.

"He's also stronger now than he was a few months ago," continued Liza. "It's taken him a little time to physically mature, and every time he goes out more people notice him. He's filling out and really grasping the concept of being a hunter."

Liza said Coronado also has one trait that sets him apart: "He looks so much like Brunello!" she said. "It's weird how many people have said to me “Wow! That’s Brunello 10 years ago.' It's really eerie. Coronado is so scopey and stridey, and his markings are the same as Brunello. It's a very nice compliment!"

In the jumper ring, Erin McGuire and Grace Howard (pictured above) continued to collect top ribbons in the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper sections aboard their mounts Kasarr and Hiho Houdini, respectively. 

Maraschino and Lily Bennett claimed the Small Junior Hunter Classic blue, and Elegance and catch rider Devin Seek claimed the Medium Pony Hunter reserve championship.

Finally Farm concludes their 2015 show season during this week's Atlanta Fall Classic II, November 11-15.

Hardin Towell Returns to the Top of the Longines East Coast World Cup Standings

Hardin Towell and Emilie De Diamant As 

The Finally Farm and JKG teams joined forces to conclude the East Coast Fall indoor circuit at the CP National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky, where Hardin Towell, Jennifer Gates and Laura Critz collected a variety of ribbons and accolades.

With his fifth-placed finish aboard Emilie De Diamant AS in the $250,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Lexington, presented by CP, Hardin is back on top of the standings in the FEI North American East Coast League World Cup standings.

Hardin has picked up 50 points so far, and has Samuel Parot behind him as rank No. 2 on 40 points. Quentin Judge stands third on 36 points, with Laura Kraut fourth on 34 points and Beezie Madden in fifth with 33 points. 

Thirty-six entries gathered at the Kentucky Horse Park to participate in the highlight event of the competition and vie for valuable points to qualify for the 2016 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final in Gothenburg, Sweden. One of seven events in the new FEI World Cup™ Jumping East Coast League, the class drew top athletes who competed over Guilherme Jorge’s first-round track in the hopes of qualifying for the jump-off. Thirteen managed to do so, and 11 were also clear over the short track, making speed a key factor in the day’s results.

"Hardin had a great class and was double clean," said sister Liza Boyd. "He was really happy with that performance and regaining his No. 1 spot in the standings. He's well on his way to qualifying for his second World Cup Show Jumping Finals appearance, and we couldn't be more thrilled for him!"

Laura Critz and Quatrain

Hardin's student Jennifer Gates also made her presence known at the National, with excellent results in the Under 25 Grand Prix ranks with Cadence and in the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper section with Everest De Muze.

Quatrain and Laura Critz enjoyed their final indoor appearance together with third in the 3’3” Junior Hunter Stake class and a sixth over fences. Laura is a freshman at Wake Forest University in North Carolina, and she concluded her junior career at the National Horse Show. 

"It was a good way for her to wrap up the year," said Liza. "Sadly, Quatrain will be sold because Laura’s focusing on school now, but we'll always have fond memories of their special partnership together."

Finally Farm is also proud to announce that professional Max Mandel has joined the team to help ride and train students and horses. He began assisting on a freelance basis over the summer before stepping into a full-time role in September. 

"He’s a great rider and teacher and so good with the young horses," said Liza. "He's worked with a variety of top professionals, including Nancy Whitehead, Rush and Carl Weeden and Julie Winkel, just to name a few. He’s a good horseman and picks up on the details, which I like. I believe he has a big future ahead of him, and we're lucky to have him.."

For more information about Max, please click here for his biography on the Finally Farm About section.

Liza was happy to celebrate Halloween at home in Camden this year while her father Jack and brother Hardin traveled to Kentucky. She enjoyed taking her daughters Elle and Adeline trick-or-treating in Camden! 

Happy Halloween from Adeline and Elle!

Fun and Family at the Washington International

Hardin Towell, center, posed with, from left, Elly Ficca, Lily Sloan, Zola Thompson and Ruby Sloan.

Finally Farm enjoyed success at the Washington International Horse Show, October 20-25, from ponies to the $125,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Qualifier.

Trainer Liza Boyd brought two pony riders from their home base in Camden, South Carolina and met up with her brother Hardin Towell, now residing in California.  The pair spent lots of quality time together and enjoyed cheering one another on while their father, Jack Towell, followed their results online while training clients at the Tryon Fall 6 Horse Show in North Carolina.

Middle schoolers Ruby Sloan and Elly Fica both had excellent performances on their Medium Ponies. Highlands Heaven Sent and Ruby placed third in the Handy class with an 83 and picked up ribbons and jogs in other classes. Ruby also placed ninth in the WIHS Pony Equitation Classic, where Elly enjoyed her best performance of the weekend, taking an impressive third place overall after scoring an 86 in the first round.

"I was really proud of both girls," said Liza. "I couldn’t have been happier with how they both finished, and it was a great way for them to end the year. They went to Washington and were prepared for the challenging courses in the hunters and the medal. 

"It was also great to see them have so much fun," Liza added. "At night we all went back to the show and watched, and they met some Hardin and some of the other grand prix riders, and they were in awe of the whole experience. This show does a great job making everyone feel special. Behind the scenes for the trainers it's not the easiest show, but when you see how much it means to the kids it's so worthwhile. They watched Rodney Jenkins inducted into the Hall of Fame. They might have no idea who Rodney is, but they will always remember that night and couldn’t believe when I told them that Rodney was Jack's idol. They thought that was really cool."

Zola Thompson had also qualified for Washington with her pony Mr. McGregor, but an unfortunate injury meant that the pair had to skip competing. Zola wasn't going to miss the show, however, so she attended with her mother Alex, a member of the Washington International Horse Show Board of Directors, and cheered on her stablemates.

"Zola was a great cheerleader for the other girls, and she even presented the ribbons to Ruby in the Medium Pony Hunters," said Liza. "We were so grateful she was able to participate, and while she didn't get to show she had the best attitude and had fun as well."

Hardin Towell and Emilie De Diamant AS 

Hardin brought Emilie De Diamant AS to take part in the CSI4* classes and to continue to earn points toward his second Longines FEI World Cup Finals berth next spring.

The pair were one of six combinations to jump clear over the Anthony D'Ambrosio-designed course and placed sixth with 8 faults in the jump-off.

"It was a big and tough class," said Liza. "It was great that they went clear in the first round, and we were all cheering him on. Unfortunately, Emilie stumbled after a fence in the jump-off, and with that small arena and huge fences there's really no room for error. She just got on her forehand and had the next two jumps down before she got her balance back. But to be sixth in that company was terrific, and Hardin got some valuable points. He's been so consistent this fall and is right up there in the standings."

Hardin currently stands second in the Longines North American East Coast League standings, A total of 14 athletes from the North American League will qualify for next year’s prestigious Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final, which will take place in Gothenburg (SWE) on March 23-28, 2016. The top seven athletes from the East Coast US, top three from West Coast US and the two best-placed athletes from Canada and Mexico will qualify for the Final, alongside winners of the 13 other leagues from around the world.

"I think being around the European riders has been so great for Hardin," added Liza. "It was fun to sit down with him over lunch and hear about what he's been doing. We don't get to spend much quality time together, so it was  great. He's learned so much by just watching. [Top French rider] Eric Navet is at the barn [with him] and Hardin has soaked up so much knowledge. He studies what everyone does and tries to learn more and better himself all of the time, and that’s helped him as a rider. I'm really proud of him for being so open minded and learning from everybody."

During the Tryon Fall 6 Horse Show held in Tryon, North Carolina, Lily Bennett captured the Junior Hunter Championship with top ribbons in each class, including two blues.

"She was coming off indoors and The Pennsylvania National (Harrisburg) where she learned a lot," said Liza. "The courses at Harrisburg were technical and challenging, so it was great to see her return home and be successful in Tryon."

Stella Styslinger also earned multiple blue ribbons in the hunters and equitation classes. She was champion in the 3’3” Junior Hunters aboard Ellen Toon's veteran Invincible and also won the Pessoa/USEF Medal and ASPCA Maclay riding Centerfold K.

"This was her first show with Invincible, and the two got along great," said Liza. "I think he really liked her, and they also won the Junior Hunter Classic with 22 entries. They had a great time together!"

Liza Boyd and Fieona won the USHJA National Hunter Derby

Laura Critz and Quatrain continued to rack up impressive placings, earning the reserve championship in the 3'3" Junior Hunters in preparation for their trip to the CP National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky next week.

Liza wasn't without her own successes, taking the USHJA National Hunter Derby blue ribbon during Tryon 5 and 6 aboard Fieona.

"She had time off earlier this year and is just coming back more and more strongly each week," said Liza. "We will probably do the USHJA International Hunter Derby at our next horse show. It's really nice to have her back. She's always been solid and scopey, and is there for you. She's 12 now, and I think she's hitting her peak. She feels better than ever, and I'm looking forward to doing more derbies with her."   

Hardin Towell Takes on Del Mar

Hardin Towell finished second in the $150,000 Longines FEI World Cup Qualifier in Del Mar

Hardin Towell continued his grand prix successes with top performances in the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping in Del Mar, California that culminated October 18.

The energy and excitement were palpable as spectators congregated in a full Del Mar Arena to watch some of show jumping's greatest stars tackle Heiko Wahlers' Longines FEI World Cup Show Jumping Del Mar course for a purse of $150,000.

There were 28 horse-and-rider combinations that tackled the imposing horse, and in the end it was USA No. 1 rider Beezie Madden aboard Simon who took the top prize, with Finally Farm's Hardin Towell taking an impressive second place aboard Lucifer V.

"Hardin had a great great show in Del Mar, and we're so proud of him," said sister Liza Towell Boyd. "First, he won the Wednesday Welcome class on New York and then he was second to Beezie in the World Cup class, which is really like a win since she's currently the No. 2 rider in the world!

Hardin Towell won the $33,000 Del Mar Welcome Grand Prix aboard New York

"Our parents (Jack and Lisa Towell) went out to Del Mar the week before to cheer Hardin on," Liza added. "They enjoyed being out there and had fun. Hardin’s come a long way, and he commented to me afterward that he's really working on his body position and the small details of his riding. He's at that level where there’s no room for even the smallest mistakes. With all of the different medal finals going on now around the country, I thought his comment was especially meaningful. Even after your equitation days are over, even the most successful riders still work on their positions to be their most effective." 

To read about Hardin's past equitation victory in the Washington International Equitation Classic Finals--and the springboard it created for other top show jumpers--please see the article "From Junior Riders to Show Jumping Superstars: Past WIHS Equitation Winners Share Their Memories" in The Plaid Horse magazine.

To show's press release documented more about Hardin's performance, including some valuable lessons he's learned and the strategy he chose for this class. Here are excerpts:

Against a field stacked with seasoned, international competitors, Beezie Madden reinforced her ranking as the USA’s No. 1 jumping athlete, and the world No. 2 in the Longines Rankings, by riding the fastest clear in an eight-man jump off for the $150,000 Longines FEI World Cup Qualifier at the Del Mar International (Calif.).

The stands in the indoor venue were packed as Madden strategically maneuvered the 16-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding Simon (Mr. Blue x Polydox) to the win in 37.33 seconds, more than a second faster than Hardin Towell’s 38.75-second round with Lucifer V. 

The solid, 13-obstacle track designed by Germany’s Heiko Wahlers presented multiple challenges to the horse-and-rider pairs that included optional striding and a very large triple combination. One of the biggest questions, according to the riders during the course walk, was the decision between six or seven strides from a double combination to a wide oxer over a liverpool. The decision to set a really big course stemmed from the many great riders featured in the class, Wahlers said.

“I thought [before my jump-off round] that Kent [Farrington] had already gone and [Richard] Spooner had already gone and had a rail, and knew I had Beezie behind me, but with Lucifer this year, too many times I’ve gone too fast and had the last jump down in several grand prix in Europe that I could’ve easily taken one more,” Hardin said. “My turns on him are not great, and I knew from the beginning that Beezie was definitely going to be able to go faster. Going to the last jump, I saw one less [stride] and then I thought, ‘You know what, I’m probably going to gallop down there, knock it down, and I would’ve still been slower than Beezie.'

“So, I decided to take one more [stride], and Beezie beat me," Hardin added. "But I’ve been the bridesmaid a lot in the past couple months, so it is what it is. But having Beezie behind me, you can only do so much, and I was thrilled with my horse. He’s really improved in the past two years, and even in the past year. This was his first World Cup last year, and I hope next year that he’ll have a bright future ahead of him.”

1. Simon (Beezie Madden), USA, 0 faults/37.33 seconds (JO);

2. Lucifer V (Jack “Hardin” Towell), USA, 0/38.75 (JO);

3. Nikh Quanto (Christian Heineking), GER, 0/40.80 (JO);

Hardin did enjoy a victory at Del Mar when he guided New York Win to the blue ribbon in the $33,000 Welcome Grand Prix, presented by Trelawny Farm.

Excerpts from the show's press release: 

The Welcome class set the stage on the show's opening day as 53 elite equestrian athletes including Georgina Bloomberg, Quentin Judge, Jack Hardin Towell, Eduardo Menezes, Nayal Nassar, Kent Farrington, Lauren Hough, Karl Cook, Eric Navet, Beezie Madden, Mandy Porter, Ray Texel, Richard Spooner, and Samuel Parot tackled renowned German course designer Heiko Wahlers' first Grand Prix of the week.

Eleven riders made it to the jump-off, and four went clear, but it was Jack Hardin Towell who expertly navigated the shortened course aboard New York and emerged victorious. Towell's time was a blistering 37.04 seconds, with Kirsten Coe on California 62 following close on his heels to finish second in a time of 38.12. Third place went to Cornet 39 with Lauren Hough in the irons and a jump-off time of 38.66, and our fourth-place finisher was Richard Spooner riding the aptly named Mighty Mouse who came in clean at 40.12 seconds. 

Finally Farm horses and riders also enjoyed success the same week while attending the Tryon Fall 5 Horse Show in North Carolina, where there were ample championships and reserve ribbons collected under the watchful eyes of trainers Liza and Jack.

This week Finally Farm will divide and conquer, with Hardin traveling to the East Coast to meet Liza at the Washington International Horse Show to train and show, while Jack remains in Tryon for the Fall  6 show. Best of luck to all of our clients and friends competing at these two competitions.

A special congratulations to Zola Thompson on the recent purchase of the Medium Pony Elegance, the Reserve Champion at the Pennsylvania National. We look forward to working with you as you develop a partnership with this special pony!