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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 23, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Like I Said Loves Aiken Charity II

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 16, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Aiken Charity I Brings Many Special Moments

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

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

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

Liza Boyd and Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stella and Jennifer Styslinger celebrate Mother's Day!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 10, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Brunello is a Breyer!

Breyer® Debuts Brunello Portrait Model at Tyron

Legendary Hunter to be Honored June 10th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Hardin Towell Scores Big Chinese Win

Hardin Towell and New York - Stefano Grasso/LGCT Photo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Finally Farm Celebrates at Aiken Spring Classic Masters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stella Styslinger and Zola Thompson with Invincible

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 26, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Camden Spring Brings Hometown Blues

Liza Boyd aboard Pony Lane Farm's Coronado (A&S Photography)

The Camden Spring Classic, April 7-10, proved to be a great homecoming for the Finally Farm team members that returned from the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit in Florida.

Trainers Jack Towell and Liza Boyd took a variety of hunters, jumpers and ponies to the show grounds just minutes from their home base, and in addition to winning top prizes, they enjoyed catching up with friends and cheering them on.

Although Liza didn’t win the featured $10,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, she was happy to place second and third overall behind winner Megan Rosenthal aboard Little Manhatten.

“I was just thrilled for Megan,” said Liza. “She’s a great kid, and she went for it in the Handy Round. I remember her as a little kid. She once drew a picture of Brunello and gave it to me when she was a pony kid. It’s great to see her come along, and this is her first year as a professional, and it was a well-deserved victory.”

Liza Boyd and Finally Farm's Shamrock (A&S Photography)

Liza couldn’t have been happier with her young mounts Coronado and Shamrock. The show’s First and Second Year Green Hunter champions stepped up to the USHJA International Hunter Derbies this winter in Florida and have been performing better and better. The Camden Spring Classic derby was particularly challenging because it was held in the evening and a substantial crowd surrounded the ring, which sits in a bowl-like setting.

“They were great. Megan did all of the high options, and I was conservative,” Liza explained. “It was cold and windy, and the class was at night, and I wanted them to have a good experience. I think they walked away and learned from it and will be better horses. Sometimes if you take the high options on these young horses they’ll try too had and jump too high. That experience can set them back.”

Liza also guided Like I Said to sixth and Cellino to eighth overall. “They both had unfortunate rails,” said Liza, who then used the class to get to better know Like I Said, her newest Derby mount purchased by Pony Lane Farm during WEF.

Liza went into the Handy Round with nothing to lose, so she practiced the turns and bold rides. “I didn’t know her that well, so a good time to go for it,” said Liza, who won the Handy Round with the bay mare. “It was great to practice that pressure that we’ll have in the future. She was great.”

Liza’s daughter Elle also made her debut in the Walk-Trot-Canter section with Otis Spunkmeyer, taking blue ribbons in the section to tie for the championship.

“Elle’s classes went right before the derby, so I was more nervous for that,” said Liza laughing. “It was her first time showing at the canter, and I think she had lots of fun.”

Liza was also pleased with Pony Lane Farm’s Balleryna, who won the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive class and earned the Pre-Green Hunter championship. Liza also placed second in the Incentive class aboard Elizabeth Fogleman’s Sawyer for a tidy payout of $650 in the class.

“Balleryna is another nice chestnut and looks like Coronado,” said Liza of the 7-year-old Holsteiner (Bratt Z—Ranita). “She’s a nice up-and-coming mare who is brave scopey. She showed once in Florida, got used to the show atmosphere and we worked on getting her fitter and in condition. She was ready to go at Camden and went nicely.”

Sarah Livingston and Ne-Yo reunited with the Finally Farm trainers at Camden and had championship results in the 3’3” Junior Hunters. Sarah typically meets them at the horse shows and works at home with her trainer, Jennifer.

“I was so proud of Sarah and thankful to Jennifer,” said Liza. “They do such a good job. They take in everything I tell them and go home and work and follow through. That’s not easy to do, so it’s rewarding for them and fun for me to see them come back, make great progress and see the results of their dedication.”

Similarly, Liza gave a shout-out to Theresa Tolar who returned to Finally Farm after a hiatus to earn excellent ribbons in the Children’s Hunters aboard Atom.

Brie Tiffany and her new horse Chacor also scored top ribbons, including a second in the NAL/WIHS Children’s/Adult Jumper Classic and reserve championship in the section. “They are a great match, and I’m excited to see where they go,” said Liza. “I’m sure they’ll have a lot of fun and success this summer. He just came over from Europe this winter, and Brie is dedicated to getting him stronger and fitter and conditioned. Here at Camden you could tell he’s blossoming, and she’s worked really hard and it’s showing.”

Posted on April 11, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Finally Farm Finds Success in Atlanta

Finally Farm traveled to Conyers, Georgia, for Week II of the Atlanta Spring Classic Horse Show, managed by The Classic Company.

There were many blue-ribbon moments for the horses and riders, as well as great fun and learning experiences along the way.

A highlight of the week was Erin McGuire's stellar performance with Kasarr in the $25,000 CWD Grand Prix. The pair jumped double-clear and just missed out on the blue ribbon to Mary Lisa Leffler aboard Bling Bling.

"Erin had a great grand prix," said trainer Liza Boyd. "Mary Lisa was awesome. Cantering to the last jump, there was a long approach to an oxer near the in-gate. I think Kasarr thought he was done, and he started bucking after the second-to-last jump and lost some time. She might have won, but she rode great and does a fabulous job."

McGuire, who remained in South Carolina for the winter, worked on her own with Kasarr, keeping him fit and preparing for the spring shows when the bulk of the Finally Farm horses and riders returned from the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida.

"Max Mandel, who works with us at home, helped Erin over the winter, and she mapped out and planned her training with Kasarr for the shows," added Liza. "Erin also showed over the winter with the Geitners in preparation, and she really knows her horse aimed to peak in Atlanta."

Liza also enjoyed ample success in Atlanta, taking second, third and fourth places in the USHJA International Hunter Derby aboard O'Ryan, Cellino and Shamrock, respectively.

"I was really pleased with all of the horses, " she said. "It poured down rain the night before and cleared right before the class started. It was a nice course and featured split rails, which are a challenge for numerous reasons. I had to go first on Shamrock, and I did make a little pilot error on him getting a feel for the course, but he was really good in the Handy. I've been pleased with his progress, since he's our newest and youngest International Hunter Derby horse."

Liza and O’Ryan have enjoyed much success since Stella Styslinger began leasing him, and their second-placed finish behind Headlines and Mary Lisa Leffer was also an excellent ribbon in good company. "O'Ryan's a lovely horse, and it's a privilege to ride him. Cellino was also great, and his previous rider, Martien Van Der Hoeven, had trained him so well," said Liza. "You can challenge him in the Derby, and he steps right up and gives his all. It was a great derby."

Stella also made the most of her own time in the show ring with Cellini, claiming a reserve championship in the Large Junior Hunter section with two blue ribbons in the section. Likewise, reserve championship honors went to Ruby Sloan and Look Again in the Children's Hunter, 14 and under, section.

Finally Farm riders also had success in the jumper rings, with Brie Tiffany riding Chacor and Grace Howard with Hiho Houdini taking tons of ribbons in the High Adult Amateur Jumpers.

Grayanna Grigg and her new horse A Propos galloped to ribbons in the Low Children's/Adult Amateur Jumpers, and Lily Bennettt jumped impressive rounds with Croft Original in the Children's Jumpers.

"We had a nice group of jumper kids that did well out in that big field at the Georgia International Horse Park," added Liza.

Posted on April 7, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Finally Farm's Local to World-Wild Reach

The Finally Farm contingent has been spread far and wide over the past several weeks, from their home base in Camden, South Carolina, to Wellington, Florida, Bellevue, Washington, Paris, France and Gothenburg, Sweden.

While most of the Finally Farm team traveled home from Florida last week, Maddy Thatcher remained on the Winter Equestrian Festival circuit to spend her spring break from Clemson University at the horse show rather than the beach, where many of her friends were likely hanging out.

Her dedication to the sport paid off greatly, as she earned numerous tricolors and blue ribbons in the hunter and jumper sections with training from the Jayne family of Our Day Farm.

Highlights of Maddy’s week included victory in the $10,000 Low Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic and the section championship aboard Skilliane De Varnel, ribbons in the same section aboard Balvino, Lancelot 266 and Dolce Vita.

In the hunter rings, Maddy guided Summer Place to the reserve championship in the Amateur-Owner, 18-35, section and made a blue-ribbon debut aboard Like I Said in their first outing together in the 3’3” Amateur-Owner Hunter, 18-35, section. She also guided Jewel to impressive ribbons in the same section.

“Maddy was on fire, and we want to thank the Jaynes for helping her,” said trainer Liza Boyd. “I think her biggest accomplishment was winning the classic on the Skilliane De Varnel. The last time or two in the classic, they had the last fence down in the jump-off, which was so heartbreaking. This was such a nice way for her to finish the circuit. Maddy’s been riding great and really consistently. She stayed down in Florida because of spring break, and she had more time in the tack, and it really paid off.”

Liza also sent a special thanks to Randi Button, who remained in Florida with Maddy. “She’s such a hard worker and so dedicated to Pony Lane Farm,” said Liza of Randi. “She’s in charge of Pony Lane and is the barn manager; she’s such a good horsewoman, and her support has been phenomenal.”

In addition to the Finally Farm and Our Day Farm supporters, professional rider Kelley Farmer joined in and guided Like I Said to the First Year Green Hunter championship, to round out the successful teamwork that resulted in so much success during Week 11.

Hardin Towell traveled from Florida to Europe to begin his journey to the Longines FEI World Cup Show Jumping Final this week. His first start was at the Saut Hermes Au Grand Palais, March 18-20 in Paris, France.

Hardin Towell, far right, waits to collect his second place aboard New York in the Prix GL Events class in Paris.

Hardin rode JKG LLC’s Lucifer V to 10th place in the featured Prix du Grand Palais, a 5* International Jumping Competition worth 400,000 euros, and he was the highest-placed U.S. rider in a competitive field of some of the best jumper riders in the world.

Hardin also claimed an impressive second in the Prix GL Events, a 1.50m Speed class. He guided New York to a clear round, just behind hometown winner Kevin Staut of France, and collected 12,400 euros for his efforts.

“He did super in Paris, and I think he’s well prepared for the World Cup Finals this week where he’ll jump 1.60m in the small indoor,” said Liza. “Our parents (Jack and Lisa Towell) traveled to Sweden to cheer him on, so we’re wishing him the best of luck as he tackles his second World Cup Finals.”

Hardin’s girlfriend Sayre Happy stayed in Wellington, Florida, where she trained Jennifer Gates aboard her mounts at WEF. Jennifer picked up some impressive ribbons, including 11th in the $35,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Round X on Pumped Up Kicks.

“She had to go first in the class of 57, and all she had was 1 time fault,” said Liza. “It was a huge class, with lots of professionals, so it was a huge placing for her.”

Jennifer also earned ribbons in the High Amateur-Owner Jumpers aboard Cadence and Caddie R and in Medium Amateur-Owners riding Everest De Muze.

Before Jack Towell traveled to Sweden, he ventured out to the West Coast where he taught a clinic at Parkside Stables in Bellevue, Washington.

Down in Camden, Liza taught lessons where she focused on working the riders and horses over gymnastics, including cavaletti and bounces. “After weeks at the horse show, I thought it was important for us to go back to the basics and flatwork, which is something you don’t have time to do when horse showing,” she said. “It was fun, and we worked on strengthening and ground work for horses and riders.”

Liza also had a special afternoon with daughter Elle on Sunday, March 20. The pair walked down the hill to the Camden Hunt Charity Horse Show where Elle took third place in the Walk-Trot class.

“It’s the oldest horse show in South Carolina, and it’s where Hardin and I started showing as children,” she said. “Elle competed in an old grass ring, and it was fun and like stepping back in time. She enjoyed watching the riders on the outside course, and the pony kids jumping in-and-out of the ring and over hay bales and logs. It was great to think about how far we’ve come. Hardin is now at the World Cup Finals, and this is where it all started. It’s full circle.”

Posted on March 24, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Hardin Towell Heads to the 2016 World Cup Finals

For the second consecutive year, Hardin Towell has qualified to contest the Longines FEI Show Jumping World Cup Final. This year's final will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, March 24-28. He will take Jennifer Gates LLC's Lucifer V and Emilie De Diamant AS to contest the featured indoor championship of the year.

Hardin placed second in the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League East Coast standings, just behind Kent Farrington and ahead of Quentin Judge, to qualify. He will join seven other United States riders traveling to Sweden to vie for the Cup.

"I'm going to go back this year with a little more confidence," said Hardin, whose made his debut in the World Cup Final last year. "I won't be as nervous as I was last year."

Hardin currently stands 50th in the Longines World Rankings after a successful season on the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida. He earned valuable World Cup and World Rankings points on a variety of horses, including Emilie De Diamant AS, New York, Lucifer V and Pepperpot, in addition to his newest grand prix partner, S.F. Arianta, who was previously ridden by Hardin's longtime friend Andres Rodriquez. Sadly, Andres passed away in a car accident on January 4.

For a detailed story on Hardin's new partnership, please click here for an article published by Noelle Floyd.

Posted on March 19, 2016 by Tricia Booker.