Jennifer and Wistar

Farewell Vechta....I will miss you!

2010-12-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

Well I am now home from an incredible experience training abroad. I may be forever changed. I have already started thinking of how I will make it back. The trip home took about five days. I left on Tuesday the 14th at 4:30 in the afternoon on a truck with that transporting company Guido Klatte. We drove from Catherine's stable in Vechta about an hour away to the holding facility and unloaded the horses. I had four horses coming home with me. Wistar and three horses that clients had purchased and were shipping back with me to Summervale. I went to sleep at about 6 pm and was up again at 12:30 am to help load and make the 5 hour drive to the Amsterdam airport. We arrived to the airport by 6:00 am and I was scheduled to fly back as a groom for the flight and proceeded to help load the 20 horses that were scheduled to fly from Amsterdam to LAX later that morning.

There were 7 pallets to be loaded onto the plane, the maximum amount aloud. Once each pallet was loaded then the horses were to just patiently wait until it was time to be driven out onto the tarmac and loaded onto the plane. They stood about 2-3 hours while paper work was filled out and to allow time in case there were any problems that should arise. Once the horses were ready to load onto the plane then the grooms were sent to check in as regular passengers and go through security, then load onto the plane. Once on the plane we were seated in the back row and were able to go back and look after the horses. The door into the cargo area always remained locked and the KLM attendant would have to come back with the grooms to check in on the horses as needed. Again I was able to stand with the horses during take off and landing which was greatly appreciated as it is rather an exciting time. The horses all handled it beautifully. We arrived into LAX after the 11 hour flight and I was not able to see them again from Wed at 1:00 pm as they went into quarantine until Friday morning at 10:00 am when they were released and I was able to make the 2 day drive home to our farm in Roy, WA. Here is a picture of the horses coming off the pallet and being checked just before entering quarantine at Jet Pets.

I pulled into Summervale Farm at 9:00 pm on Saturday the 18th. I was so relieved to make it through the three Mt. passes that were calling for heavy snow fall. Yikes! Everything worked out wonderfully and I am extremely motivated to implement all that I have learned towards the riding, management, and the many different aspects of running a good business. Catherine Haddad was an excellent choice. She and her staff made my trip very informative and it was a trip of a life time. I am very grateful for all of the wonderful people that I met during my stay and the incredible horses that I was able to watch in their work and had the opportunity to ride. I took so may tools home with me that will improve all of my horses not just Wistar, although he made some great progress as well. I am truly inspired.

A special thank you to The Dressage Foundation for this special award, it was truly an incredible experience, my husband Alex for being so supportive in helping me reach my dreams, Charlene Summers for breeding such an incredible horse and allowing me to carry on a partnership with him for the last 11 years, Catherine Haddad for welcoming me into your stable and being so giving of your knowledge, Paula Helm for all of your guidance, and to all of my sponsors, friends, and family that have been so supportive and encouraging through this journey. Many thanks!

PSI annual auction in Ankum, Germany

2010-12-21T20:41:00.000-08:00

This was a wonderful event to experience. The presentation of horses was skillfully run and the bidding was exciting for all. In the end, PSI brought in over 12 million Euro and sold horses to many of the top countries of equestrian sport.

My very good friend Paula Helm came to visit me during my last week in Germany. We attended the Sat show case presentation of the auction horses Dec 12th and then the live auction the following day. It was truly amazing the prices these animals went for. The least expensive horse was bought for $75,000 Euro and the most expensive was a jumper mare for $800,000 Euro. We had a blast watching but were very careful to keep our hands low and not make any sudden movements that might be mistaken for a bid.

CDI at Stuttgart 2010

2010-11-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

What an incredible weekend. I had the fortunate experience of attending the Stuttgart horse show as a spectator and it was amazing! The show is run and organized to the second and that schedule was posted two weeks in advance. There was an incredible "Vegas style" show Friday evening with the famous Lorenzo "The Flying Frenchman". I took a very short clip on my camera and am posting it here but it did not do him justice. Short clip of Lorenzo at Stuttgart!

I found a super video online to show that gives you a better understanding of the kind of incredible horse person he is. Here is the link to the video of Lorenzo online. Lorenzo demonstration It is incredible and shows exactly what he can do. Don't miss this one.

I drove to the Bremen airport this past Thursday and took a flight direct to Stuttgart. Upon arrival, a shuttle service provided by the show came and picked up myself and Nick Fyffe, from Australia, who has been working for Catherine the last couple of months. Also in the shuttle was Madeleine Winter-Shulze, sponsor of Isabelle Werth. We drove to the KongressHotel Europe and it was the host hotel for all of the riders. It was so great to see all of the riders, I felt like I was in Hollywood. Edward Gal, Isabelle Werth, Ulla Salsgeber, and Hubertus Schmidt would all be the next table over at breakfast. Catherine had given me a special pass so that I was able to go back into the stabling and into the warm up areas. It was very interesting watching everyone warm their horses up the morning before the test. It was very educational. Thank you Catherine!

Check this out. Upon arrival at Stuttgart!

The jog was on Thursday and the Grand Prix for the Freestyle was on Friday. At this particular CDI 5 star they hold a Grand Prix for those going into the Freestyle and then a Grand Prix for those competing in the Special. There were twelve invited to partake in the Grand Prix for Freestyle held on Friday morning. The results are listed below. Catherine had a really nice solid test and finished 4th. A very good accomplishment!

Click here for the results of the Grand Prix

Watch Catherine Haddad and Winyamaro do their GP test

Watch Ulla's GP Test here!

The Freestyle's were amazing. The horses were great and the atmosphere was electric. It was a packed house and Winyamaro came in like, "whoo-hoo awards ceremony". He was excited but held it all together. Here are the placings for the freestyle, Winyamaro was 6th.

Results of the Grand Prix Freestyle here

Watch Catherine and W's freestyle here. So fun to watch!

Isabelle Werth's winning ride on Sachmo 82.5%

Watch Isabelle and Sachmo here!

One other thing I had to mention is the driving competition. Very exciting to watch. The warm up for the drivers was intense. You had 6 teams all warming up in a 20 by 40 meter dressage size arena.

Check out this video of the warm up that Catherine took: Drivers warming up!

Here is the winner of the day! An Australian team, Boyd Excell. Boyd Excell's winning round!

Just for fun here is a clip from WEG that was posted on youtube so you can see how an outdoor course compares. They are quite the atheletes! WEG 2010 Combined Driving Marathon

Side trip to Selden

2010-11-12T15:05:00.000-08:00

This past Monday after working the horses I took a little trip south. I went to the town of Selden to see some of Irene's(HW Farm)young stock she has coming up. As you may have seen on the Summervale site Irene and Summervale have been working together to sell some of her fantastic imports from Germany. This was a real treat to get to see some of the next horses that will be coming over. Tanja the owner and trainer of the farm was so wonderful in showing me around. We went to a couple of fields that were close by that were housing some of the up and coming 2 year old colts and fillies. The barn itself at Tanja's held about 20 horses. Most were coming 3 year olds and of course all of the current riding horses. I met Walk on Top and Statesman HW two of the horses listed on Irene's site and they were just as lovely in person. There were also 5 lovely little coming yearlings that were going to be put out to pasture in the next coming week or so to grow up for a while. Very nice!

Had a great training week. Wistar is settling into his new German lifestyle. Love him and his forever accepting attitude. What a temperament this horse has. Always accommodating and just does his best. What more can you ask for?

On a side note I am getting many calls on potential clients looking for horses for sale ranging from talented young horses to top of the line FEI horses. If you have a quality horse for sale please don't hesitate to contact me. Also I will be accepting horses in for consignment January 1st.

Chat soon.

Thursday Nov 4th

2010-11-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

It is my 13th day here in Germany and I am having a great time. I have learned my way around the autobahn and what 160 kilometers an hour feels like(that was just keeping with the flow of traffic). I also put 10 gallons of gas into the car and paid an amazing $85.... for just 10 gallons. Yikes. I walk every morning from Catherine's house about a mile to the barn. It is very beautiful with all of the trees changing for fall and creating a lovely landscape. Catherine and I and her Uber cute dog Gizzy all go for a 45 minute walk around the forest on our way back to the house in the afternoon. This is great since I am now riding 2 to 3 horses a day down from my normal 8 to 10. Definitely love the exercise.

Wistar is doing great. I am learning some super new tools and Catherine and her staff have been lovely. It is a great operation and I am learning so much everyday. I will get some new video posted soon.

My assistants Paula, Tasha, and groom Alesha are all holding down the fort at Summervale while I am away. We still have some super sale horses in and available. Check out the website for the latest details.

Flight To Amsterdam Footage

2010-10-31T13:42:00.001-07:00

Well I thought it would be fun to show you what is involved with the flying of a horse to Germany. I have a small little flip video camera that was super easy to pull out and shoot. (Thanks Alex!) It is a bit shaky during take off...dont worry it wasn't nearly as bad as it looks from my video skills. The horses were unsure for about 2 minutes and then all was calm again. Enjoy! Will post again soon! If link doesn't work please copy and paste into your browser.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZA1LbeqfJng

2010 Grant to Germany. Our trip through Vechta begins!

2010-10-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

It has been a while since my last post. I am currently in Vechta, Germany on a training grant that I received from the Dressage Foundation this past January. On Wed October 20th my good friend Johnna Stevens and I drove the 24 hour drive down to LAX where Wistar was to fly out on that Friday. We made great time getting up at 3 am on Wed, arriving in Red Bluff Wed about 4:30 and resting for the evening. The next day we were up again at 2 am for the 12 hour second day drive to LAX where the company, Jet Pets, is located. They were coordinating my 10 hour flight to Amsterdam and then on to Vechta, Germany where another 5 hour transport by truck awaited.

Wistar traveled like the trooper that he is and was bright eyed upon arrival into Catherine Haddad's stable Sat evening the 23rd around 7:00pm. The barn is lovely. The footing and indoor incredible. It has been very informative to watch Catherine work her horses and as of today I received my second lesson. Sunday was a day for some light stretching and yesterday Monday we began with work to lighten the aids for the more cadenced trot and the changes. It was evident that tension was creeping in during the one tempi's and we worked to be able to change the neck before and after the series. This morning Tue we worked together at 6:30 am before Catherine was to depart for a CDI in Lyon, France on her darling horse Winyamaro. Today she had a look at my Piaffe/Passage and we are going to work to get the connection more honest in those movements. I must try to get Wistar to stay up more from the withers and to stay light in the contact without me micro managing so much in the hand. To constantly push the hand forward and see that he seeks the contact and steps further under from behind. Catherine has an incredible eye and was instantly able to key into a plan for us. I hope to post video as we go along so that you can follow in our progress.

Young Horse Championship Finals

2010-08-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

HS Wrevolution, ridden by Jennifer Williams finished in 12th position with a 72.1% in this years USEF/Markel FEI 5 year old Young Horse Championships. The pair were among the nations top 15 to qualify and be selected for this years competition held in Wayne, IL this past July.

National Young Horse Championships

2010-07-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:
Jennifer and Wrev had a good preliminary test. It was a clean ride with no mistakes, and everyone was very happy. With a score of 7.2, they are currently in 12th place. The Final is on Saturday, and we will have another update then.

Jennifer and Wrev have safely arrived in Lamplight, IL, for the 2010 National Young Horse Championships. Wrev made it through the jog, and they ride their first preliminary test today. We wish the team the best of luck, and will have an update as soon as possible.

Beaujolais

2010-06-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Beaujolais was a success for the team's first outing back in Washington. Paula showed Boy Next Door, aka Beau, and won each of her classes with scores between 63%-65%. She also competed on Whrapsody, and placed 2nd in her Training level class on Saturday.

Jennifer took a couple of the youngsters, and it was a great schooling experience for them.

Congratulations to Jennifer and Wrev, they have qualified for the Young Horse Championships! They will be competing at Dressage at Lamplight in Wayne, Illinois July 22-25. We are all so excited for them, and wish them good luck.

Del Mar National

2010-05-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Dressage Week at the Del Mar National, April 29th - May 2nd, was successful for Jennifer and the group. Jennifer and Wista won their 3rd level test on Friday with a 63.07%.

Due to illness, Tekla was unable to ride Klapton, so Jennifer showed him. On Friday, the team placed 2nd in 3rd level with a 64.872%. On Saturday, they placed 1st in 3rd level with a 69.487%. Klapton was Reserve High Point of the show for the Open division.

Paula came down for the month of April, to ride and train Sammy. She used this show as a schooling experience for her young boy.

Wrevolution placed 2nd in the FEI five year old test, with a 77.4%, and was Reserve Champion. They have qualified for the Finals at Dressage at Lamplight, in Wayne, Illinois, July 22-25. Jennifer has decided not to compete at Flintridge, but continue training and save him for the Finals.

Jennifer and the team made the return journey from California this past week, and arrived home on Tuesday the 5th. We are happy to have them home!

2010 Festival of the Horse Results

2010-04-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

It was another great show for everyone at the Festival of the Horse in Burbank, California March 31-April 3. On Thursday, Jennifer and Wrev won their First Level test with a 67%. Also on Thursday, Jennifer and Wista won their first Fourth Level test with a 65%.

Whrapsody, aka Sammy, had another great show experience; this being his second show away from home.

Double Jeopardy, aka DJ, made his debut at First Level, and won his class! DJ is sold. Congratulations to Deborah Minemoto, of San Jose, California, on the purchase of this talented horse. They have a bright future together!

Wellie made his Second Level debut with Jessica on Saturday. They did a great job, placing third with a 62.8%.

Overall, it was a great weekend for everyone!

Dressage Affaire

2010-03-18T21:11:00.000-07:00

It was a great show this weekend at Dressage Affaire, held at the Del Mar Horsepark.

Wrhapsody, owned by Paula Helm, and ridden by Jennifer, kicked off Friday with a winning score of 68.69% at training level. This was his first training level test abroad, ridden under Jeanne McDonald.

Also on Friday, Jessica won her first level test on Wellington, owned by Leanne Norseth, with a score of 65.333%. The scoring judge was Kim Barbosa.

On Saturday, Tekla earned her first Silver Medal score with Klapton at Fourth level, a score of 61.8%.

Jennifer rode Wrevolution in the 5 year old preliminary test on Saturday and scored a 7.92 under judge Paula Lacy.

On Sunday, Wrevolution competed in the FEI 5 year old final and won with a 7.64. This provided Jennifer and Wrev with one of the two qualifying scores for the Markel Young Horse Dressage Western Selection Trials held at Flintridge, CA.

A video of Jennifer and Wrev's finale test can be seen here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrxBdj4Kxeg

With that score, the pair are ranked third overall. A link to the overall standings can be seen here: http://www.usef.org/documents/disciplines/dressage/5YOScores.pdf

Congratulations to everyone, and we can't wait for further updates!!

San Diego for the Spring of 2010

2010-03-04T18:27:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note, my name is Ashley McEntyre. Jennifer has been very busy training and teaching, so I have offered to take on the role of keeping everyone updated on her successes. That being said, 2010 is off to a great start. Jennifer left early Saturday, February 27, with a full trailer. She will be staying in San Diego, with Steffen Peters, for the months of March and April. This year Jen brought six horses and her assistant, Jessica Warner, down with her.

Jennifer's own Wrevolution, the 5 year old full brother to Warado, will be training for the FEI 5 year old tests this season. Are the West Coast Young Horse Championships, held in Flintridge, CA in this teams near future?

Wista, an 8 year old Wistar mare, also went with the group. Owned jointly by Charlene Summers and Jennifer, she is schooling the Prix St. Georges. Wista is for sale, and videos can be seen at http://www.summervalefarm.com/mares.htm.

Double Jeopardy, aka DJ, is an 8 year grandson of Wishes and Dreams. The beautiful black gelding is going to gain exposure. He is also for sale, and can be seen at http://www.summervalefarm.com/geldings.htm.

Wellie, a Dutch/Clydesdale owned by Leanne Norseth, is also along for the ride. Affectionately called in the barn, Clutch, he is going with Jennifer to add some polish to his Dressage.

Whrapsody, aka Sammy is a coming 5 year old Wistar Gelding owned by Paula Helm. Paula plans to come down for April and show, but until then, he will be learning the ropes.

Klapton, owned by Tekla Jungaro and Rod Gregg, is the veteran rounding up the group. Tekla will be showing 3rd/4th level and enjoying learning on this handsome boy.

Jennifer decided to leave Wistar and Warado home this spring, for some R&R. She wants Wistar fully rested so that he will peak on the European tour this November.

The groups' first show is Dressage Affaire, March 12-14. The best of luck, and we look forward to hearing the great results!

Jennifer S. Williams Awarded $25,000 Anne L. Barlow Ramsay Grant From the Dressage Foundation

January 14, 2010

The Dressage Foundation has announced that Jennifer S. Williams, of Yelm, Washington, has received the 2010 "Anne L. Barlow Ramsay Annual $25,000 Grant." The purpose of the Grant, established at The Dressage Foundation, is to showcase talented American-bred horses ridden by United States citizens, by providing money to train and compete in Europe.
Jennifer and Wistar
Photo Courtesy of Susan J. Stickle

"Jennifer's dedication, qualifications, and desire to gain international experience impressed the Selection Committee," said Jenny Johnson, Administrative Manager of The Dressage Foundation. "The Dressage Foundation is proud to provide her and her horse, H.S. Wistar, the funding to help showcase an American-bred horse in the international arena," she said.

Jennifer and her Hungarian Warmblood, H.S. Wistar will be training with Catherine Haddad in Germany during the Fall of 2010. The team will compete at the Oldenburg CDI and the Odense CDI. "Training and competing in Europe will give Wistar and me experience in how the European show system works, will give us experience with larger crowds and venues and will help acclimate us to the highest level of competition - international competition," Jennifer said. "The Anne L. Barlow Ramsay Grant will allow me to experience and learn from competing abroad, something I only dreamed about before the award."

Dr. Anne Barlow Ramsay (FL) established a Charitable Remainder Unitrust in 1999. She worked with John Boomer, then President and CEO of The Dressage Foundation. "The remainder funds were designated to come to The Dressage Foundation in 2009," said Boomer, "and now her sizable fund will yield the $25,000 grant annually well out into future years."

"Dr. Ramsay is a Renaissance woman -- a wife, mother, medical doctor, business executive, volunteer, world-traveler and equestrienne," said John Boomer. He added, "In 2009, Dr. Ramsay established a second Charitable Remainder Unitrust, with the remainder funds again coming to The Dressage Foundation in 2019, to continue her schedule of $25,000 annual grants far out into the future years." Boomer concluded, "Anne Ramsay's creative, distinctive gift is remarkable for its longevity -- it will be helping Dressage riders and American bred horses for a very long time to come."

Great American Championships

2009-10-06T23:20:00.001-07:00

The season has finally come to an end. We had a wonderful year and there is much to be thankful for. The horses are all fit, sound, and healthy. I personally can't be more thrilled. This years regional championship was held at the beautiful Devonwood Equestrian Centre. The weather was fantastic and we all had a great time.

The boys did great. Wistar won the Great American Grand Prix Championship and was Reserve Champion in the Great American Grand Prix Freestlye Championship(Congrats Linds on the win!) Warado was also the Great American 3rd level Champion for 2009.Reserve Champion in the class was HS Wishful Thinking who is also a Wistar son. Congratulation to Meghan Dorsey on her beautiful rides. Regalo had a super test in her Great American first level test and finished 3rd by the narrowest of margins. The victory gallop was fun and entertaining. The horses were definitely getting tired as the weekend wore on. They are so happy to be getting a well deserved break.

Paige and her Pony Dan-O finished off the year as Champions at PSG and Intemediare one for their Great American classes. She was very excited to get her victory gallop in. Bev Huddleston and her gelding Ellusive (by Wistar)finished 6th of 25 in the Northwest Training Level AA division. I will post some pictures from that soon. Everybody take care and I will give you an update before we head off to CA in mid Feb next year.

Oregon Dressage Championships

2009-09-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

Well it was another hot weekend down in Oregon at this years Oregon Dressage Championships held at Devonwood Equestrian Centre. The barn went down with 7 horses and we all had a great time. The temperature was up in the high 90's and we were cooking for a large portion of the weekend.

I was fortunate to qualify and make it down with 4 horses this year. Wistar, Warado, Wrevolution, and Regalo. All four of the horses were wonderful and I felt very happy with their performances. Wistar competed in the GP and the GP Freestyle. The Freestyle was held on Sat in the afternoon during the some pretty warm weather. He was a good boy and worked hard earning Reserve Champion in the division. The next morning was the GP and it was much cooler. He felt more with me and gave a solid test for a score of a 66%

Warado was stellar through the weekend. He was able to secure a win on all three days in his third level open classes with a 72.7% on the final Sunday ride and the ODS Third level championship.

Wrevolution was my little greenie. He behaved himself for two full days but on the third day he just had to give a little excitement to the crowd. The first day in the open show at Training level he was great and was very ride-able. He is four this year and incredibly athletic which is part of the reason why I think he will make such a phenomenal GP horse in the future. He also has a great mind but at times he reminds me that he is four and has an overly athletic moment or two.

In the Oregon championships you must ride two test over a two day period for the lower levels. On sat Wrev won the class with a 71% and was looking good for a championship. On Sunday we had an "athletic moment" with the judge commenting that he thought I was up for the good stay in the saddle belt buckle award. That horse continues to amaze me. I just love him! He ended up finishing fourth with a combined score of 68% and a good end to the season.

Regalo my final mount for the weekend was also a super mare. She had just the two championship tests rides and handled the venue and the test like a pro. After day one Regalo finished second behind Debbie Evans and her lovely gelding by just 2 tenths of a percent. The next day she put in a very solid test for a 71.7% and the first level championship. Her owner Johnna Stevens was so excited, it was really sweet.

We had a couple of Summervale Farm team members riding it up this past weekend as well. Bev Huddleston on the 6 year old Wistar son Ellusive took home a 5th place finish in the amateur training level championship division and 4th place in the first level division. Tekla and Bonsai finished 8th place at first level and 6th place at second level in the championship amateur divisions. Paige and her pony Dan' O finished Reserve Champion in the open PSG championship class and 4th in the Intermediare Championship, and Kristin on Larsie rocked out their first Intermedaire test in the open show. Congratulations to everyone at the show. There was some beautiful rides by many of the competitors.

Update on the summer progress

2009-09-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last posting and I apologize for the delay. The horses are doing great. We have been to quite a few local shows this summer. In June the barn went to Donida Farm in Auburn, WA for a show. Wistar did a GP Freestyle test there scoring a 74% and Warado some third level test. We also took one of our lovely sales mares Regalo who competed at first level and Wrevolution who did some training level test. All four horses did well and it was nice to get them out again after our great time spent learning from Steffen in San Diego.

We then did the Donida Farm show the end of July. Wistar did a GP test and his freestyle there which also went well scoring a 68.9% in the GP and a 70% in the Freestyle. The test are feeling much more confirmed in this second half of the season.

The first weekend in August was our very own Summervale Farm show which went great and every one seemed to have a wonderful time. We took the opportunity to get some of our young horses out and it was very good exposure for them.

The following weekend I was able to take Wistar and a couple of clients to the Spokane Sport horse show. This was a great venue and we all had a fantastic time. Wistar had a strong GP scoring a 72.5% and Paige Romney who rides her darling pony Dan' O and is only 14 was able to secure the FEI Highpoint in the FEI at Intermediare One with a 66% over the two day show. Tekla and her adorable gelding Bonsai also had a great show and we really enjoyed the trip. Next up is the ODS Championships in Sherwood, Oregon. You can see all of my scores at

http://www.summervalefarm.com/jennifer_shows.htm and how our clients are doing at http://www.summervalefarm.com/clients.htm thanks and looking forward to talking with you all soon!

2009 FEI ROLEX World Cup

2009-04-26T21:13:00.000-07:00

What an event. Steffen Peters and his mount, Ravel have recently won the FEI ROLEX World Cup with an 84.95% WOW! Many of the Summervale Gang were able to witness this awesome event. Steffen was calm ans cool as he entered the arena for the Grand Prix and I just couldn't help but feel like he was going to make it happen. Make it happen he did earning an amazing score and clinching the victory. It was the same result for the Grand Prix Freestyle. Poetry in motion. I am as motivated as ever to get back down to the beautiful farm of Arroyo Del Mar where he trains and continue to receive the priceless instruction that he gives. Here are a couple of fantastic photos taken by my friend, Siggi Wolff. Thanks so much Sig!

On a side note the horses all made it home safe and sound. A major relief! We are taking it a bit easy for a period and then will get geared up once again to hit a couple of the Washington shows and perhaps head down once again to train with Steffen this Summer!

Rancho Murieta CDI

2009-04-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

The sunshine is going to be so hard to leave, but our time here in sunny California is quickly coming to an end. It has been another lovely weekend of horses and Dressage competition. Wistar was a good boy in the Grand Prix CDI. He was honest in his work and tried hard. We had a couple of mistakes in the extended trot pieces which was a bit out of character for him. I was extremely happy with the quality of the canter pirouettes and the changes. The piaffe and passage tour is getting stronger and everyday we learn another piece of the puzzle it seems. Still a long way to go but were enjoying the journey.

Warado has been a champ all month. He finished 2nd in his 3-3 test with a 65% and won his 4-1 test with a 68%. He is looking forward to a break when we get home.

Wrevolution has been superb. He was 2nd yesterday in his T-1 class with a 66% scoring an 8 for his gaits. He is very brave and willing. He still needs some time to get strength over his back and carry some wight behind. He will be phenomenal in a year or two.

Wista, who is being ridden by my assistant Jessica had another good weekend at Training and First level. She scored in the mid 60's all weekend and was very happy with the mare's performance.

Arturo had a good show competing at Training level this weekend. He scored a 72% on Thursday taking home a high point award. Arturo is also being ridden by Jessica.

Kristin O'Hearn and her equine mount Lars had a successful weekend as well. The pair who train in WA with Siggi Wolff of Cavallis,came down with the Summervale Farm gang to gets some more experience. Kristin was able to achieve both of her qualifying scores for 3rd level championships in the two shows she rode in along with her bronze medal scores and one score towards her silver medal. This was a big goal for Kristin so we want to give a big congratulations to her on that awesome achievement.

Rod, Tekla, and Bonsai headed home from LA last weekend along with Natalie and her mom Carrie with Welsey. We already miss you guys but will see you all in a couple of days when we get home on Tuesday.

Pictures from top to bottom are: Warado, Warado, Warado, Wista, Wistar in GP test, Wistar in test, Wistar at the jog inspection for the CDI

Take care!

Festival of the Horse

2009-04-05T20:58:00.000-07:00

It was a fun and exciting weekend at the Festival of the Horse Show in LA the weekend of March 25 - 29th. Our group had a wonderful time. The horses are all doing very well. I Thought I would throw up a couple of new photos for you. This was a warm up Grand Prix for Wistar before the CDI at Rancho Murieta next weekend April 2-5th. He had a very strong test with minimal mistakes. The goal for this year is to develop more consistency and strength. He is getting more solid everyday but as many of you know this is a life long process. I hope to get it all figured out before retirement. Take Care!

Dressage Affaire 2009

2009-03-16T16:18:00.001-07:00

Hello all,

Just returned back to base from the Dressage Affaire horse show at Del Mar's show park. All eight of our horses attended. Here are some of the details. Wistar and Warado were entered. Wistar did two open grand prix test in front of the panel of 5 CDI judges. He was very solid but still needs to develop strength and cadence in the piaffe/passage tour for higher scores. He competed Friday and Sunday scoring just under 63% both times which was good enough for 2nd place. Warado competed his first time at both 3rd and 4th level. His third level test went well winning 2 of the 3tests with a 67.436% and a 65.581%. He also did his 1st fourth level test which went off without a hitch and won the class with a 70.698%.

We brought three young horses with us down to school and develop. Wrevolution, Arturo, and Wista. All three were super at their first horse show. Arturo, who is owned by Lenora and Bob Shaw, competed at Training level and was steady enough to take home the win in all four of his test of the weekend with his rider Jessica Warner who has been working for Jennifer for the past 8 months. Jessica also rode Wista who is owned by Charlene and Jennifer and competed her at Training and First level with scores ranging from 64%-66% and multiple wins. Wrevolution has been started under saddle recently. He attended the show to school but did not compete just yet. We hope to have him compete in LA in two weeks.

We also had Rod and Tekla Jungaro and Bonsai come down for this show with Natalie Perry and Welsey. Tekla and Bonsai achieved a 60% in their very first show together and at first level. We were very proud of the pair. Natalie had a successful show with Welsey, their first show together as well. Natalie is giving Welsey confidence and showing her the ropes of the Dressage shows down here.

We also have Krisin O'Hearn down here with us. Kristin is a student of Siggi Wolff's that Jen clinics with from time to time. Kristin is hoping to compete at 3rd and 4th level at the LA show. She has brought a very sweet gelding Lars as her partner. We will surely have pics up of her next time.

The pictures you see above are shown in the following order: Arturo and Jessica, The gang watching Warado in his 4th level test(Erica, Charlene, Paula, Natalie, Tekla), Natalie and Welsey, Wista and Jessica, Wrevolution and Jennifer, Bonsai and Tekla, Warado and Jennifer.

Take care and hopefully I will get some photos back from the photogragher soon to add of Wistar.

New photos of the young ones

2009-03-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

We have two coming four year olds along for the trip. Wrevolution and Arturo. Wrev, the bay, is listed on our sales page under geldings on the Summervale Farm site and is coming to gain experience and exposure down in CA. Arturo, the chestnut, is along for the same thing but has already been purchased by Bob and Lenora Shaw of Calgary, Canada. We are getting the boys all ready for their new owners to be.

Wistar and Warado are doing great. Warado is currently making the transition into the double bridle and is doing wonderful. Bonsai, Rod and Tekla arrive tuesday along with Natalie and her mare, Whoohan. We are looking forward to having the group all together as we prepare for the first show, Dressage Affaire that runs this coming weekend the 13th -15th.

Training season has begun!

2009-03-06T16:27:00.000-08:00

Well we have been down in San Diego since Tuesday and the horses are all doing wonderful. We have six horses with us this year with two more on the way meeting us at our first horse show, Dressage Affaire in Del Mar.

Wistar and Warado are doing very well. We are working with Steffen Peters again this year. I took my first lesson with Steffen yesterday, thursday, on Warado and that went really well. His changes are already getting more expressive.

I have Warado's full brother Wrevolution down with us as well. Wow is he developing beautifully. This is his first trip to a show and he is so brave and uncomplicated, especially for a coming 4 year old. Watch for pictures of this talented guy coming soon.

Thanks Kristen for taking the snap shots of Warado during our lesson with Steffen. It's been a while since we have had anything new of him.

Wistar and Jennifer

2009-02-20T22:56:00.000-08:00

It has been a long rode to this point. I am proud of the horse that has developed beneath me and I am honored to ride him each and every day. I am thankful for the blessings in my life and I am so fortunate to have the loving support of so many. Thank you for the chance to do what I love each and every day. As I prepare for another season at Grand Prix with Wistar I hope to gain the knowledge and the skills to grow as a rider and so much more as a person. Here's to a competitive and healthy 2009!

Del Mar

2008-05-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all well. I wanted to give you the latest update. I have just returned home from San Diego with the horses. Everyone is well. Del Mar National was the last show I did in April and it was successful. Wistar however did not compete. He had a slight injury two weeks prior that side lined him for this particular show. He is doing fine now but that's timing for you.... This show was the last qualifier needed for the selection trials. So I decided to come home and re-organize for next year. He was outstanding this year and we learned so much. Training with Steffen was everything I had hoped it would be. Thanks again for all of your support and I look forward to the new goal of trying for the World Equestrian Games as it comes to Kentucky in 2010.

On a side note. Quarteto Do Top the beautiful Lusitano stallion we have in, competed in the "$1000 FEI Evening of the Freestyle" at Del Mar. It was our first show together and our first class for that matter in front of 2-3 thousand people. He was a little star taking reserve with music from "Spirit Stallion of the Cimmeron" He absolutely loved the crowd. I will have some great pictures up shortly for the blog.

Festival of The Horse

2008-04-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Well this weekend went much better for Wistar and I. I decided to ride him briefly before the jog to relax him and make him think his work day was over. I then immediately changed and ran him in the jog and he was a perfect gentleman. Paula helped me with my out fit which was black pin striped slacks and a cute white jacket with a silk scarf. Thanks Paula!

Friday's Grand Prix was a big improvement from the show prior. I warmed up Wistar in 20 minutes testing his reactions and his throughness. When I went around the outside of the arena I continued to test his reaction to my leg and check that the piaffe would be there.

The test was very clean with good transitions into piaffe and good moments of passage. Overall the test scored a 63.083% My pirouettes were a bit weak along with my trot half passes. The tempis were nice and straight and up hill and the zig zag was my best yet in a test. The scores from the panel of 5 judges ranged from 66% from Linda Zang to 61% form Germany's Volker Moritz. So quite a wide spectrum. My over all feeling was that he was very ride able in the test and that made me very happy. I finished 6th in a field of 14. Steffen and Ravel won it with a 70.8% and Debbie and Brentina 2nd with a 70.5%, 3rd was Leslie Reid, then Leslie Morse, 5th Jennifer Hoffman with a 63.9% then Wistar and I.

The Special was very solid. Wistar was even more uphill in his work and I put in a solid 15 steps of piaffe in each tour. I scored my 1st eights on my passage and extended canter which was exciting. I had one unfortunate break in my final extended trot down the long side before my final piaffe/ passage tour but my over all test was improved from the day before. Although is it scored slightly lower with a 62.52% we ended 5th in the class and I was thrilled with his performance. Check out all of the CDI results at http://www.cornerstonedressage.com/results/2008%20Festival%20results.pdf Our next competition is the Del Mar show the end of the month and I am very excited for the evening of the Freestyles Sat the 26th. Summervale has purchased two booths ring side for the evening. We hope to have the gang come down to watch. Let us know if you're interested.

On another note Cendro, Rubesco and now WIndtalker all had once again a very successful competition. Cendro finished 2nd with a 71.190 on Friday in his 2-4. He was very good although more tired then normal so I scratched his 1-4 later that afternoon. Temperature was about 74 degrees and it seemed to have taken its toll on Cendro this week. He was tired this weekend. We have been going strong for the past 6 weeks. Saturday he was a bit more vibrant finishing 3rd in his 2-4 with a 67.85%. Sunday was a really great ride with a 72.895% and good enough for 2nd behind Leslie Webb who scored an 81% with her young boy.

Windtalker had his first show this weekend. Ashley is going back to school this fall and has decided that she really needs to sell her talented boy. We have just listed him on the www.sumervalefarm.com site and he came out at third level. He won his first test in the green horse third level test with a 62%. Then on Saturday he was second with a 63.8%. He shows so much promise and talent and was a blast to compete. We may bring him to Del Mar and Flintridge if we have him that long. He's likely to get snatched up by some lucky rider very quickly.

Paula had a super weekend. She won all four of her classes entered with a 72.01 on Friday in 1-4, a 70% at 2-4. On Saturday a 72.143% in her 2-4 class and then the finale.... a 74.474 on Sunday in her 1-4 test also winning the Markel Insurance High point cooler and neck ribbon for the high scoring amatuer of the show. Congratulations Paula. We are so proud of you. On a side note Paula also had her Phirst Solo baby this week. Solo had her foal via suragate on Thursday the 27th. Beautiful black colt with a blaze and four white socks.

Paula then continued home form the LA show and made home safely Tuesday the 1st. We already miss you Paula....

Dressage Affaire

2008-04-02T21:11:00.001-07:00

Hi every one sorry for the late post. Thanks for all of your interest and support. Needless to say this show was not our best. We had many issues heading into the competition. The jog was quite a disaster. It was our first jog back in about two years and let me tell you I had a wild man on my hands. He was so excited and leaping and jumping like the hot man that he really is not. He seemed to have kicked himself in the process. He was not quite right afterwards and during the process blew out all of his energy. The following day for the Grand Prix all the wind was out of his sails and he still did not quite seem himself. I had many mistakes that were not in our normal limits. It was a tough score to swallow but every experience really teaches us so much.

I decide to scratch him for the freestyle. He felt much better the next day but still was sore somewhere and I just didnt feel good about it. So we took it easy and decided to focus our efforts forward for The Festival of the Horse two weeks later.

Paula and Rubesco did a fantastic job in their test scoring a 64% in 2-4 winning the class and a 63.42 at 1-4 taking 2nd on Thursday. On Friday she scored a 64.2% in her 2-4 class winning it again and then on Sat she won her first level class with a 69%. Paula and Rubesco are making phenominal progress and plan to show third and fourth level when they return to WA later this year.

Cendro was also at the show with us and did a super job. He was second in his first 2-4 with a 63% 1st in his 1-4 class with a 67%. Cendro is a hard working boy with a great attitude. He has been so much fun to have down here. On Friday he took first with a 66.6 % at 2-4 and then on Saturday his final test was 1-4 and he took the win with a 74.2%

Mid Winter Dressage Show

2008-03-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

The first two days of Mid Winter Dressage show are complete. Friday was a beautiful day and the first day of a new season. Wistar went first at 3:15 and I had a super warm up to prepare. I got on about 30 minutes prior and in the heat it was still about 6 minutes to long. The weather is much warmer here and he doesn't last quite as long as he acclimates. The test went well. This was Wistar's 1st ever Grand Prix and I haven't shown a Grand Prix since Solo in 2005 at Gladstone's Festival of Champions so I felt a little rusty. My first extended was very solid and the half passes needed a bit more cadence. His second extended to the passage had a big spook out of the corner but was salvaged. My piaffe passage tour was still not as fluid or active as I am getting in the warm up or at home but I was really able to get a great feel of what to fix before our first CDI in two weeks. My changes scored 8's and my last passage piaffe tour was really picking up. Over all we finished fourth our first time out and I felt very satisfied with his effort and our performance. Scores in this class were quite low but I was very happy. Tomorrow we will shorten the warm up and really try for more accuracy and get every point I can.

Cendro and Rubesco also had a great day. Paula and Rubesco won there 1-4 test with a 68% and were second in the 2-4 test with a 65.6%. Rubesco is coming back from a two year hiatus after an injury in 2006. He is now stronger than ever and Paula couldn't be happier with him. Go Rubesco!

Cendro who is owned by Margot Reed of Tacoma had a great first day as well. I have been on Cendro about two months now and this was our first show together. He came in very "puffy" to his test and gave them both a good go on Friday. He won his 1-4 test with a 72% and was second in his 2-4 test with a 66%

SATURDAY RESULTS:

Today was Wistar's first Grand Prix Special ever ridden. I had a great time riding this test. We warmed up in about 20 minutes and had our test in the Equidome where they hold the CDI test. Wistar was great. The quality of the work was a step up from yesterday. I had some small mistakes but nailed my changes and pirouettes are really starting to gain points. We were able to come away with the win today and that was nice but I was so happy to have the feeling we were communicating so well within the test. That was my most important goal of the weekend. I will give him tomorrow off and Paula and I each have a test on our other boys Rubesco and Cendro. I also have Ashley's boy Windtalker here which I have been schooling each day. We may enter him into his first test if a scratch opens up tomorrow.

Rubesco and Paula won there 2-4 test today with a 68.9% Paula did a great job and really nailed it. She was extremely excited. She is even more excited to get back to the barn in San Diego to start working on those third level test.

Cendro had a great day too. He was a perfect gentleman in his warm up and had a solid performance in the ring as well. He came away with the win with a 75.5% We were quite happy with that. His mama Margot flew in for the weekend to watch him go and she had a great time.

SUNDAY Results:

Paula and Rubesco win their first level 4 Am with a 70%
Jen and Cendro win ther first level 4 Open with a 70.5%

Latest update

2008-02-27T20:23:00.000-08:00

Hope this message finds you all doing well. Wistar and I are doing wonderful. We arrived Thursday, February 14th after an uneventful drive with blue skies over the passes and the horses eating and drinking beautifully. San Diego met us with rain, cold temperatures and lots of mud. The rain lasted about two weeks and finally we have beautiful blue skies and warm days again.

I have the very fortunate opportunity this season to be working with Steffen Peters at Arroyo Del Mar with Wistar. This has been a very exciting and beneficial transition. Wistar is working beautifully and trying hard every day. I spend my morning watching Steffen work his horses and then have my lessons in the late morning. I find myself growing everyday and will strive to emulate the communication and harmony he possesses with his horses. It is truly beautiful. Steffen and Shannon are incredibly supportive and helpful and I feel so blessed to be able to work with someone so accomplished.

The afternoons consist of traveling to Sea Breeze Stables which is just ten minutes away where our other horses are stabled. The horses are well. At Sea Breeze the rain has prevented us from riding for the last couple of days before traveling to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. Hopping on at the show was "interesting"!

We have arrived at the LA show yesterday and the horses have really settled in. I had a super work out with Wistar today under Steffen's tutelage. Paula had a great lesson on Rubesco and Cendro and WT were angels. The competition starts up on Friday and with a little luck I will put in a solid test.

Thank you again to my sponsors and supporters who have helped me get to this point in my training. Without you I could not pursue this dream. I can't wait for you to see how our hard work has led to a jump in our capability! You can see ride times at www.cornerstonedressage.com

82.8%

2008-02-06T10:06:00.001-08:00

Well I will say I had a couple of weak moments in my Grand Prix Freestyle at Donida's schooling show on January 20th but some really good moments as well. Wistar was a dream through his piaffe/passage work and I nailed all of my one tempi's. I have a few kinks to work out for the big shows but it was a nice confindence builder right before we leave for CA which is this Tuesday the 12th. Cendro scored a 72% in his 2-4 test. He is owned by Margot Reed and will be coming down to show with me in all of the CA shows. Paula and a rubesco won there 1-4 test with a 69% and Ashley and Windtalker did a fabulous job earning a 65% in her 1-2 test. They will be heading down with me as well. Rubesco is schooling third again and will be showing first and second level this year after a two year break due to injury. Ash and Windtalker or Little Dub as we like to call him is also schooling third level and showing first and second this year. Little dub turns six this year and he is looking more and more like his Poppa Wistar every day.

So first show up....LA Equestrian Centers Mid Winter dressage Fair Feb 29- march 2.
I will post again and let you know when we arrive and all of the details of the long 24 hour haul. (don't worry we will be stopping and resting)

Merry Christmas!!!

2007-12-19T21:24:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Wanted to write and wish everyone a very Happy Holiday season. Things have been going really well here and I have so much to be thankful for in my life. Wistar is such a blessing to me and he has been absolutely outstanding these past two months. We recently finished a clinic with Janet Brown and I ran through the Grand Prix for the first time. He scored a 67% and we worked on many movements there after that could easily go from 6's to 7's or 7's to 8's. His piaffe and passage are getting so strong I am very excited for his debut in CA this coming March. We will continue to focus on strength building and health for the coming months. I will be leaving in February and will be down south for quite a few months this time. Thanks to all of my fabulous sponsors and all of you that have supported me these last couple of years. We have a really solid financial base to get us started in CA for 2008

One huge benefit financially this year is that the USET Festival of Champions/Olympic Trials will be held in San Juan Capistrano, CA this year as opposed to Gladstone, NJ where we attended in 2005 and 2006. This will allow the money we currently have to go further and help fund the training aspect more thoroughly. If any one is interested in supporting Wistar and I please feel free to contact me on our website www.summervalefarm.com. Your donation is now tax deductible when given to the 501c3 "Assured Steps" and earmarked for Jennifer and Wistar.

Many blessings to you and your family and have a wonderful Christmas!
Give your horse a treat for me and I will post again in February before I head off.

Jen

2007 Regional Championships

2007-10-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Well the season is finally winding down. We just finished with our regional championships. Warado was wonderful despite some nasty weather and mucky footing. He was a little star behaving beautifully and working hard through the less then ideal conditions. We had a wonderful group of friends, students and supporters to cheer everyone on.

The weekend started out with our Northwest 1st level championship class. We had a super warm up and over all a solid test. The mud puddles proved a bit difficult in our canter work with a couple of balance problems and a break into the trot. We ended up with 69% and a fourth place. Saturday we had our Great American 1st level Championship which for me was a real disappointment. Warado felt great and as I went down center line I had a sick feeling about how deep the footing had become due to the rain. I started my first lengthening and pulled up. I asked the judge for permission to withdraw and she completely understood. I just couldn't risk him in it. It was a tough decision but in the end I knew it was the right one.

Later that day we had our 2nd level NWDC test and he was very well behaved no major mistakes just a little lack of expression. He scored a 67% and was again fourth.

Sunday was a little more exciting. The rain was really pouring and huge lakes had developed in the arena's. Fortunately the arena I was in on Sunday was wet but firm.
We were aloud to warm up with in the arena because of the lack of space now around the outside due to the addition of a third dressage court with in the enclosed sand arena. I spent about two minutes cantering through the lakes to get Warado accepting of the new obstacles. We went down center line and he did a super job. One little cross canter in one of my movements and the rest was very nice. He ended up Reserve Champion with a 73% in his Great American 2nd Level. Receiving a 76% from one judge and 69% from the other.

Paula and Solo did a beautiful job as well taking 3rd in her PSG with a 64.7%
Paige and Dan-o Had a super weekend winning there NWDC 1st level, NWDC 2nd Level, Great American 2nd Level, and was reserve in her Great American 1st level Championship in the junior/yr division
Diana and Elegancia were Reserve Champions for both there NWDC and Great American 3rd level AA classes
Kimmie and Princess were very satisfied with their 1st level AA classes
Meghan and Poet, Teresa with Durk and Marika, and the rest of the gang made for a really enjoyable weekend.

Special thanks to Lucas for staying at the show to watch the horses over night and give Warado and extra carrot good night!

Janet Foy Clinic

2007-09-07T22:47:00.000-07:00

Well the weeks are flying by this year. I can't believe it is already September. Wistar and I went to the Janet Brown-Foy clinic the weekend which was inspirational and great fun. We worked a lot on the quality of the transitions into and out of Piaffe and Passage. Wistar was a champ. He has gained so much strength in the last couple of months. His rhythm has improved (my rhythm) and he is very active behind. I still just need a bit more lift with his front legs. We also worked on the quality of his schooling canter. Being able to stay consistent and controlled within a working pirouette. It was really fun.

Just an update since the last blog. WEC was a lot of fun for Paige, Paula, and Ashley. Paige and her pony Dan-O did a great job with their 2-4Q with a 66.9% and winning the class. She also won her very first 3-3. She did a great job through the weekend and ended up qualifying for second level at championships. Paula had a fantastic ride on Phirst Solo taking nd in her FEI class with a 65.5% at Intermediare One. Way to go Paula!!! Ashley and Little Dub (Windtalker) had a great 2nd show. Ahsley took 3rd in her T-4 class and we were all very proud of the pair. Everyone did great and now we look forward to the championships.

Summer fun

2007-08-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Hope you are all well. Wistar and Warado are doing really well. We are heading to the last show before championships up at Whidbey Is. this weekend. Warado is doing a couple of second level test to finish up his year end award requirements. He is all qualified for first and second level this year. Championships will held at Donida Farm Equestrian Center the last weekend of September.

Also coming to the show with us is Paige who will be attempting her first third level 3 test with her pony Dan'O. Paula will be showing Solo at I-1 and Ashley is showing her boy at training and first level. We will get some pictures and post. Should be a fun show.

Wistar is doing great. He is getting so strong. we took this picture of he and I the other day after doing a new photo shoot of Warado. He is so adorable!!!

Jennifer

Getting back to it!

2007-07-17T00:10:00.001-07:00

Hi guys,

Hope you are all well. It's been quite some time since my last update. I'm sorry about that. A lot has happened in the last couple of months. Back in April right before the big LA CDI Wistar and I had a couple of road blocks. Two weeks or so before our show he had the untimely misfortune of a hot nail in his left front foot. We fixed the problem as quickly as we could but it did not seem to get better and eventually abscessed. We were very careful to keep him quiet and low key until we could continue to get him checked out and grow his feet out a bit. For the past couple of weeks we have just been focusing on getting him as healthy as possible. It has been tough but I am happy to say that he and I are up and running and doing great. He is my bud and I love him. Every day with him is such a treat.

I will keep you posted on our show season when it is determined and we hope to get back down to LA to train with Krissy Harrison this winter and/or to Idaho with Debbie McDonald. Next Spring I hope to take a big group down with me to show and train. It should be a lot of fun.

A quick update about Little Man. He has been wonderful. Taking up quite a bit of breeding slack for Wistar(Poor Guy). He went to WEC last month and won his classes at first and second level. He is getting very strong. We will be showing this weekend at Champagne Classic. Also Ashley(my assistant)will be competing her horse Windtalker and Paula Helm will be debuting her I-1 test this weekend on Phirst Solo. I have to tell you that she did her first set of PSG's two weeks ago at Whidbey and she scored a 64% and a 65.25% and achieved her silver medal. I was so proud of her. We will have a big great group there this weekend at Champagne and would love it if you can make it out to say hi and help cheer everybody on.

Well that about covers it for now. Hope you and your ponies are all well.

Talk to you soon,

Jennifer

Warado wins his first time out at second level

2007-04-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

Hello again,

All and all it was a good show and I am happy to report that "Little Man" won his second level test with a 72.1 % He was very forward and in front of my leg. I thought he did a wonderful job with the more difficult movements. I am working hard to develop more strength with him and more consistent cadence in the trot work .

The US League Final was taking place during the weekend. Paula, Keshia, Ashley, and I had a great time watching the Grand Prix on Saturday. On Sunday we helped Paula and Keshia pack up and they headed toward home. We were sad to see them go. We were fortunate to make it back to the show in time to see Krissy get a 66% in the Grand Prix Special with Rociero. She had a beautiful test. Then it was the freestyles. We got to see who would represent the US at World Cup in Vegas this coming April. It looks like it will be Steffen Peters, Courtney King, Leslie Morse, and Wild card Cathrine Haddad.

Monday morning we head off to Redding for our first lay over. We had a wonderful stay at "The Paddock" in LA. Krissy and Debbie were fantastic and I can't wait to work with them in the future. Right now the plan is to rest a little in April and focus on getting the Grand Prix really solid with Wistar and hopefully compete later this season at that level. Warado will continue to train and we will think about what competition is next. Thank you for all of your support and I can't wait to get home and see everybody.

Jen

Festival of the Horse

2007-03-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Well some unfortunate news to report. I had to cancel Wistar from the CDI this weekend. He unfortunately developed a hoof abscess in his left front hoof that we were not able to remedy before the show. He has been fantastic and I was very disappointed especially with all of the progress we have made. I am very thankful that it is a short term problem and that we will be back on track here shortly. We are heading home after the show back to Roy and everyone is very excited to get home and get back to work.

On the brighter side. "Little Man" is being so super at the show. Friday we did a 1st level test and he came in 1st with a 68.7%. Today Saturday he was very in front of my leg and expressive and won his first level test with a 71.7%. Tomorrow we are doing are very first second level test. He has been getting stronger and stronger since I have been down here and he is really understanding the concept of sitting in the canter. We will see how he does. He has been a real trooper.

Kiesha made it down safely yesterday and has been helping Ashley, Paula and I at the show and will be helping drive home with Paula tomorrow. They should be home on Tuesday night and have been so much fun having down here with us. I will let you know how Warado does tomorrow. Until then I hope all of you are well and I will see you soon.

Jennifer

Update!

2007-03-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Sorry for the delay in updating the blog. The horses are doing great. Chris Butanko was here again last Monday to shoe the boys and that went well. Thanks Chris for spending two days down here away from your business to help us out.

Wistar had his first warm up show of the season. We decided to start th season in the small tour being that it is a Pan Am year. We are working diligently on the Grand Prix at home hoping he will be ready to bring out the 2nd half of the year. We will see how the first two shows go and update our plan accordingly. In our PSG we had a somewhat consistent test which brought in a 65% from the panel of three judges. He was a little high especially in our medium canter down the long side. Yee-Haw he was feeling good. He needed a bit more relaxation in the canter work.

The next day in the I-1 I was absolutely thrilled with his performance. He was fantastic. He scored an overall score of a 66% which put us in 7th of the 24 entered for the day. All and all it was a very good first show out. It let me know what I had to work on for the next month and I feel really good about the CDI coming up in the next two weeks which is what will really count. I have been implementing some changes in my training since working with Debbie McDonald and Chrissy Harrison and we are still working on developing a more subtle connection. So that first show really helped us all know where we lack strength.

Little Man was a very super boy at the show as well winning his first class of the weekend with a 70.7% at first level. On day two he was able to get a 69% and finished third. On Sunday I took a lesson with Chrissy and Wistar and schooled Warado before packing up and taking them back to the farm. We had a great time. Paula pulled into the show on Saturday evening with Solo. Just arriving from Summervale Farm. Solo was tired but looked great and was very perky.

Well that's all for know. Next show is March 30, 31, and 1st. It is a CDI at the LA Equestrian Center. Charlene was planning on flying down for it. Kiesha who helps out with some riding at the farm will be flying down to help out at the show and drive back home with Paul and all of us. Thanks Kiesha. And we can't wait to see you Char (and Kiesha).

Jen

Doing Well!

2007-02-25T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Hope everything is going well. We are all doing great here. Nancy Dotti of Contact Saddles came and visited us yesterday. She did a check up on my two Albion saddles. Wistar is in a SLK Ultima and Warado is in the new Platinum Ultima model which was sponsored by Nancy. I also am in an Albion KB double bridle and the Ultima girth sponsored by Nanci. She flocked them both and got them fitting the boys just right. You can schedule a saddle fitting yourself by going to www.contactsaddles.com Nanci does travel. She also left me with a beautiful 18" Platinum Ultima 18" narrow twist, narrow seat, med/wide tree that I will have available for sale when I get back if it of coarse has not alrady sold. I head over to the LA Equestrian center on Tuesday for our first competition with Wistar on Friday and Saturday. Wish us luck...

Thank you!

2007-02-16T12:45:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

The horses are doing really well. Everyone has settled into their routines and we have been working diligently every day. I have been really thinking a lot about how much I appreciate all of you that have supported me through this journey. I feel so blessed to have you all in my life and really couldn't be living this dream without you. Every day I am so thankful to have such wonderful horses to ride and be in this position of learning and bettering myself in my riding skills.

Last weekend I was able to travel home and see many of my clients and husband and it was so wonderful how welcoming everyone was. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Alex for your never ending emotional support and pep talks, Charlene for you amazing horses, your life lessons and your friendship, Ashley for your hard work and dedication to me and the horses that you groom everyday and make look immaculate every time they step out of there stalls, Terry for you support through all of the years and your United Airlines passes when we need them, Chris for taking time out of your very busy schedule to come down and shoe my boys so I can keep them at their best, Marli for your beautiful Newsletter that you did for us that was so well written, Paula for your constant friendship, dedication and endless hours of hard work in trying to get me funding so that I may stay down here long enough to reach my goals, Belynda and Kiesha for keeping the horses and the farm going while I am away, Jenny and Sue for all of your help with the grant writing, to Debbie McDonald and Kristina Harrison for your acceptance and your teachings, and to all of my friends, family, sponsors, and clients that support me everyday I can't tell you enough what you mean to me. Thank you for everything that you do. I am so blessed to have you in my life.

Sincerely,

Jennifer

Weekend Complete

2007-02-05T19:57:00.000-08:00

Hi There,

Well the weekend is complete and we are resting today. The horse's hand walked a couple of times and everybody relaxed. We moved to the farm where we will be staying for the next two months, "The Paddock". It is very nice and safe. Sunday ended nicely at the show. "Little Man" was a little tired but put in a very nice test. He finished with a 65% and I was happy. It got up to 90 degrees and he was a little doggy.

Wistar was super in our lesson with Debbie. He is really getting the idea now of the hotter reaction to my aids. We kept it short because of the heat which he I am sure appreciated.

Tomorrow the other three boys arrive. They left this morning and should be here about 9:00 AM tomorrow morning. We are all ready for them and I will take pictures so you can see them as well. I also will get pictures of Warado up so you can see all of our group. The picture up is Ashley with her boy Windtalker. That's all for now.

Jen

First Day of a New Season

2007-02-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Well the season has officially started for me this year. I had a first level ride on our Warado today or "little man" as we like to call him. He was very well behaved and did an excellent job for his first time out this year. He won his class with a 70.258%. I will work on more expression from him through out the season and see if I can get him to second level by May or so. He will be five later this year and he is extremely easy to train. I won't push it with him and see what develops.

This weekend I will continue to work with Debbie on Wistar. We had another wonderful lesson today. Reinforcing all of those pesky little half halts. We had him sitting nicely today in the canter and the trot work. She is really emphasizing to make him extremely forward thinking to my leg when we work on any sort of Piaffe work. That he is not to lean on my hand and must think more trot when my legs go back and off for the Piaffe aid. Then I can work him down in the neck to make him lift up in the back for a more correct positioning. That's all for now. I show "Little man" again tomorrow and will lesson again with Wistar. I will let you know how it goes.
Talk to you soon.

Developing Riders Clinic at LA Equestrian Center

2007-02-01T15:33:00.000-08:00

Hi There,

Well we finished our third day of the Developing Riders Clinic today. I feel like I learned a lot and got a really good feel for how the connection needs to feel in the piaffe and how I still need to further develop better self carriage and hold a more consistent rhythm. It can be overwhelming at times at how much there is to learn but I felt like I got a real good grasp on where things need to go. I primarily worked with Debbie McDonald for the last three days and Klaus oversaw things. She is a wonderful instructor and I highly recommend if any of you ever have the opportunity to work with her you jump on it.

The first couple of days we worked on getting Wistar more supple in his body and not me trying to supple him only in the mouth. We did a lot of bending exercises and she really emphasized half halting more often but much quicker and then immediately activating the hind legs in the moment of releasing the half halt. It was like "Get of my hand but keep your hind legs moving." We worked on this quite a bit until he automatically would activate behind even when I was patting him on the neck. It was a great feeling.

Today (the third day) Debbie got on him herself and wanted to work this exercise a bit more thoroughly. He looked lovely and she got him really up in the neck and kept his hind legs very underneath him in the piaffe with the croup honestly lowering. It was very inspiring. She had many good things to say about him. I will continue to work with Debbie through the weekend. I had contemplated doing his first Grand Prix this weekend but I would rather utilize this time with Debbie before she heads back further north. I feel that I have many little things that I would like to perfect before I take him into his first GP test. All and all I am very thrilled with the week. Wistar worked very well especially after his long journey. I will work him very light tomorrow to give him a little break. Take care.

Jennifer

Arrived safely

2007-01-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

Hi There,

Wanted to let you know that Wistar, Warado, Windtalker, Ashley, my dog Katie, and I all made it down safely to the LA Equestrian Center. We arrived about 11:00 PM last night after a grueling 13 hour day. It was tough but the horses look wonderful and are already bucking in there stalls.

We left a bit late on Thursday morning after some technical difficulties and made our way to Ashland, OR where we stayed at a wonderful farm, Ashland Hills Stable. Allen the owner as always was so accommodating and wonderful making sure we were all taken care of. We had originally planned to make it three hours further south to Redding but we felt it was too late to start over the pass on Thursday night. So this left for a long day on Friday. We made it though and are all set up and ready for the Developing riders clinic which will start on Tuesday and go through Thursday. This clinic will be with Klaus Balkenhol and Debbie McDonald. I will let you know how that goes and post pictures.

The other three horse, Perno, Wachter, and Andiamo will be arriving the 2nd of February. I will post some pictures of them as well when they come. Talk to you soon.

Heading South

2007-01-25T23:39:00.000-08:00

Well it's the 26th already and were almost packed. It seems like it came up so fast. Wistar and I are doing well. He has been working wonderfully and we are both excited to be getting into our competition season. I don't know about my internet situation once I get down there but I hope to update every couple of days.

I will be taking six horses down with me this year. Big man on campus, Wistar of coarse along with his five year old son Warado who will be showing first level and maybe a couple of the FEI five year old classes. Another Wistar son, Windtalker whom my wonderful groom Ashley owns and will be riding and showing later this year. Perno, a 16.2h black imported Dutch gelding with lot's of personality who is schooling fourth level. Wachter a 17.2h brother to Wistar who is big, black and amazingly beautiful with a perfect blaze down his face, and last but not least Andiamo an Oldenburg bay gelding that is coming six and is always looking for who will give him a little attention. A wonderful group of horses and we are very much looking forward to our journey. I hit the road tomorrow with Wistar, windtalker, and Warado. The other three boys will meet me down south by way of Charlie Gibson horse transport on the 2nd of February. I will let you know how the trip down was in a couple of days.

Getting ready to go!

2007-01-14T14:32:00.000-08:00

January 14

Wow! Another year has passed.Today is my husband Alex and my first wedding anniversary. Hard to believe how time flies. He has been with me through a lot of new adventures with Wistar and competitions. Especially considering I was away almost four months in 2006. I was lucky though, he got to come see me a couple of times during competitions and I tried really hard to get home to see him and help my students a couple times as well.

Plans are starting to come together as far as preparation's for the 2007 season. Recently I learned that the Klaus/Debbie clinic has been moved up to the end of January so that has put a rush on things a bit. We are waiting to see how the weather and the pass conditions will hold up. They will play a large role as to when I can leave. If I can get everything confirmed then I will leave the 25th of January to head down south. If not then more likely the 15th of February. I am very excited for Klaus to see Wistar again. He has been going really well and I am feeling much more confident with his piaffe now. He is getting stronger and more consistent. I am looking forward to getting him back to the warmer weather. I know we both work better when it's above 20 F.

I Hope everyone had a wonderful New Year's celebration and thank you to all of your continued support and encouragement. It really means a lot!

Documenting our journey

2006-12-28T16:57:00.002-08:00

Hi everyone,

So I thought it would be a good idea if I started this blog so that I can keep everyone up to date with all of the latest news, clinics, shows, and scores throughout the year. I am very excited for 2007 and what it has in store for us. If any one should need to speak with me direct please email me at dressagespecialties@yahoo.com and I will be in touch.

For my students, our first horse show of the season is just around the corner. February 11th at Donida Farm there will be a schooling show that I intend to participate in and hope you can come and join us. It should be good fun and a chance to test our skills before the scores actually count.

Currently I plan to be heading down to California sometime in the middle of February. I will post as soon as I know for sure my schedule. I will be flying home the first part of March to give instruction.

Upcoming Dates January:

January 7, 2007 E.I. Annual Meeting 2:00 pm
January 8, 2007 Clinic Redmond -contact Siggy 206-696-1134

January 20,21 2007 clinic Yakima - Contact Judy Lewis 509-945-3606

Beautiful gift from a dear friend

2006-12-27T22:12:00.000-08:00

Today as I entered the farm a wonderful friend and client had left me a beautiful gift. It was the most amazing painting done of our boy Wistar. The painting depicts Wistar having a wild frolic and it truly captures his energy and heart along with his incredible eye. Diana O'diear-Mellinger painted it for us and I will love and treasure it always. Thank you so much Diana.