2011 Andalusian Magazine - Issue #2

DEDIC ATED TO THE SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE HORSE

Issue 2 | 2011

INTERNATIONAL ANDALUSIAN & LUSITANO HORSE ASSOCIATION





Right, Rafael Chávez Monzon with
daughter Carmina and Xperto at
The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show.

Haras Dos Cavaleiros:

GOING GLOBAL

With Working Equitation.

Lusitano breeders Carmina Zamorano and Rafael featuring spa areas for both men and women, with
Chávez Monzon are passionate about the Lusitano sauna and steam rooms, massage areas and locker
horse, and also about what may be the fastest-growing rooms, and a gym. A swimming pool, hotel bar,
international equine discipline on the planet: Working restaurant and a media lounge where clinic riders can
Equitation. This husband and wife team made a major enjoy a cocktail, review and talk about their ride videos
splash at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in also add to the resort ambiance.
Kentucky with their glittering glass Lusitano Lounge,
whose purpose was to introduce the Lusitano and The adjoining training facility is state-of-the-art,
Working Equitation to a totally new audience in the with a lovely stucco 42-stall barn and a 25 by 60-meter
United States. indoor arena overlooked by an observation lounge that
rivals anything you will find in Brazil. The property
In addition to sponsoring Working Equitation also has a separate office and a chapel built overlooking
competition and exhibitions at major shows such as the the lake – just the place for a destination wedding. The
IALHA Nationals and The Pin Oak Charity Horse equestrian resort will also be marketed to groups for
Show near Houston, Zamorano and Chávez Monzon special events, an entrepreneurial idea that is typical of
have imported their herd of Veiga-bred Lusitanos to Zamorano, whose “other business” is a highly success-
Texas, which includes highly regarded mares and stal- ful financial consulting company in Mexico.
lions who have earned top honors in Portugal, Brazil
and Mexico. World-class training connections
Getting back to Working Equitation, Haras Dos
“We began moving our horses from Mexico to Cavaleiros plans to bring Pedro Torres, Working Equi-
The Woodlands, Texas three years ago,” says Carmina tation’s European Champion 2010, Team and Individ-
Zamorano. “Now, we are building a facility nearby to ual, as a special guest for their Grand Opening planned
showcase them – a place where both our old friends for the spring of 2012. Portuguese superstar Jorge de
and new ones can come to enjoy the horses and learn Sousa, first Working Equitation Champion of the
about Working Equitation and Dressage from some of World, is also coming to teach the first clinic at the new
the world’s top trainers.” facility. But in the meantime, Zamorano emphasizes
that Haras Dos Cavaleiros is currently open for busi-
Building a deluxe home for riders ness. “We have three very fine young trainers here now
The facility will include a very luxe boutique hotel

QUE BA DA BROA XPERTO DOS CAVALEIROS BABALOO DO RETIRO

Advertisement

working with our horses and those of our clients, and with fellow enthusiasts.
we are happy to schedule lessons in Working Equitation With advocates like Rafael Chávez Monzon and
while we are finishing up the facility,” Carmina says.
Carmina Zamorano, the future of Working Equitation
Originally the architect designed the hotel with in the Americas and beyond is looking very bright.
locker rooms and facilities mostly for men. Zamorano Haras Dos Cavaleiros will be taking their Lusitano
had to take him aside and explain that for equine Lounge promoting Working Equitation to the 2014
sports, the target market included just as many women. World Equestrian Games in Normandy, France, joining
That revelation sparked a redesign that has pushed Alltech and a number of other global brands who
back the hotel’s completion date, but further gilded the champion equine sports. It seems that the Lusitano is
lily that this property will become. keeping very good company these days!

Breeding the best horse for Working Equitation For more information, visit harasdoscavaleiros.com, or email
Rafael Chávez Monzon began collecting Lusitanos [email protected], or [email protected].
more than ten years ago, and has leveraged that invest-
ment to produce his homebred Xperto, a charismatic Above and below: artist renderings of the spa hotel and
bay stallion that has won every major award in Mexico, stable at Haras Dos Cavaleiros in Magnolia,TX.
including National Champion in 2004 and 2006 and
Best Male born in Mexico. He was also IALHA
Champion Stallion and Champion in Dressage Sport
Horse in Hand at The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show
in 2011, his first show-ring appearance in the United
States.

Haras Dos Cavaleiros also stands five other
stallions from Portugal and Brazil who have won more
major awards than we can list here. The best news is
that Rafael is willing to work with aspiring breeders,
even accepting payment plans on stud fees. The good-
will is palpable; the couple wants to share their dream

UNÁNIME DA BROA XL FÉLIX DA COSTA OCEANO DO RETIRO

DEDIC ATED TO THE SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE HORSE

Contents
Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN MAGAZINE

On the Cover:

Haras Dos Cavaleiros’ stallion Oceano do Retiro and trainer Tiago
Ernesto present a spellbinding demonstration of Working Equitation at
The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, which will host a Working Equitation

competition at their 2012 show.

(Photo credit: Jon Kral)

10 features
14
18 10 2011 National Championship Show
20
Support this year’s National Championship Show and Charity Fundraiser and help make
4 ANDALUSIAN it a success.

By Christina Cardenas

14 Canadian Youth Realizes Dream

Kaylyn Steinhauer turns chance into championships.

By Julie Alonzo

18 The Art & Soul of Driving

Enduring dedication to a classic discipline.

By Barbara Price

20 Showing the Iberian Horse In Hand

Fervent advice about freedom of movement on the line.

By Carol M. Stockton

departments 30 Andalusian Classifieds
32 Hope Must Rein
6 President’s Letter 32 Advertiser Index
8 Editors’ Letter
24 Where We Have Been
26 Business Cards
28 Stallion Listings

Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



from the Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN MAGAZINE

President | by Julie Alonzo

Working Equitation Dedicated to the Spanish and

By now, you have probably heard about work- Portuguese Horse
ing equitation, an exciting, relatively new discipline
in North America in which participants compete IALHA PRESIDENT
in three distinct phases: dressage, with an empha-
sis on collection; a trail-type course emphasizing Julie Alonzo
responsiveness and walk/canter transitions; and a
speed phase, in which obstacles are negotiated as IALHA EDITORIAL BOARD
quickly as possible.
Douglas E. Ramsay, 2011 Co-Chair
The discipline is one for which our horses are Barbara Price, 2011 Co-Chair
particularly well-suited,with their agility,athleticism Julie Alonzo
and ability to collect.I just spent six days participat- J.B. Lessels
ing in three working equitation clinics with two dif- Erin Ryder Hsu
ferent clinicians and about 40 different people from Marsha Heiden
across the United States. I have to say, it’s also one Carol M. Stockton
that I can easily see IALHA members embracing. Pat Murphy Cornelius
At the clinics I’ve attended so far, people have spent about equal time in rapt concen- Sue Weakley
tration, focused on working in harmony with their mounts, and laughing uproariously
as they work their way through some of the more challenging obstacles. The speed ANDALUSIAN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED
phase, in particular, tends to bring cheers, shouts of encouragement, and spontaneous
bursts of applause from those watching as horse and rider navigate the course. QUARTERLY BY:
For their part, the horses seem to enjoy the variety that the discipline brings. The
foundation from dressage translates immediately to a smoother ride in the obstacle ease- IALHA
of-handling phase, where precise transitions between the walk and the canter, and the
ability to collect at the canter, are paramount. Not surprisingly, those who excel in the REGISTRY OFFICE
speed phase, typically, have a solid foundation in dressage and are adept at the ease-of-
handling phase as well. Because the overall ranking in a Working Equitation competi- 101 Carnoustie, North, #200
tion is determined by placement across all three phases, the discipline encourages a Birmingham, AL 55242
balanced approach, whereby horse and rider focus on moving in harmony and lightness. Tel: (205) 995-8900
Looking for something that’s sure to stretch your riding skills, while helping to solid- Fax: (205) 995-8966
ify your partnership with your horse? This may be just the thing. www.IALHA.org
Come try it out at the IALHA National Championship show, Oct. 11-16, in Fort
Worth, Texas. We’ll be offering a walk-trot novice division, as well as basic and interme- MEMBERSHIP SERVICES OFFICE
diate classes. Come join in the fun! ◗ AM
342 North Main Street, Suite 301
Correction: West Hartford, CT 06117-2507

Andalusian Magazine regrets the paraphrasing of Charissa Kutie’s article “Odd Man Tel: (860) 586-7503
Out” in Issue No. 1. The original text should read: Fax: (860) 586-7550
Email: [email protected]
With Kutie not being afraid to step outside the box, he sought the help of good
friend and master in-hand trainer Riz Ilyas, to help train piaffe and passage. “If The primary objectives and purposes of the International Andalusian
you’re looking to become the best, you have to train with the best. Riz’s guid- and Lusitano Horse Association are:
ance has shown me an easier way to get the maneuvers correct by working
with the horse’s natural abilities, not against them,” stated Kutie. (1) to preserve, improve, and maintain the purity of the blood of horses
of the Andalusian breed, which includes horses of Spanish origin known
Steve Kutie and Ichibon DMT as Caballo Pura Raza Española and/or of Portuguese origin, known as
Cavalo Puro Sangue Lisitano, or Raça Lusitano, and/or of Spanish/
(Photo credit: KPH Performance Horses) Portuguese origin, and to promote public interest in the science of
breeding Andalusian horses, and to foster, aid, and encourage the
Photo credit for this photograph of high-bid Stallion Auction winner Saphiro from our breeding, exhibition, and promotion of this breed; and
2011 Handbook is by Pics of You. Andalusian Magazine regrets this omission.
(2) to advance the knowledge and education of the public and members
about horses of the Andalusian breed and to promote the acquisition
and distribution of knowledge of the history, use and standard, medical
and other care and treatment, and propagation of horses of the
Andalusian breed.

**Only issues, statements, declarations and decisions discussed and
agreed upon by vote of the Board of Directors or the membership shall
be considered official Association Policy. Any and all other issues,
statements, declarations and decisions expressed in any publication,
letter, video, speech, discussion or any other communication displaying
or not displaying the name of the IALHA or expressed by any Officer,
Director, employee or member shall be considered personal opinion and
shall not be deemed in any way to be policy of this Association or its
members, Officers, Directors or employees. The use of the Association
name, letterhead and or logo or any other representation of the IALHA in
any media shall not constitute recognition and/or agreement with the
contents of such.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

IALHA, 342 North Main Street, Suite 301, West Hartford, CT 06117-
2507. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any mechanical,
photographic or electronic process without prior written permission of
the publisher.

COPYRIGHT © 2011 IALHA

ANDALUSIAN Magazine is the official Publication of the International
Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association
All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.

6 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



Editors’ Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN MAGAZINE

Letter | by Doug Ramsay

‘Put a Little English on It’ Dedicated to the Spanish and

Loyal readers and members embrace Portuguese Horse
the meaning of diversity, and they tacitly
appreciate the wide variety of pursuits at ANDALUSIAN PUBLISHING OFFICE
which Andalusian and Lusitano horses
excel. IALHA horses of all types consis- LIONHEART PUBLISHING, INC.
tently succeed at a broad range of riding 506 ROSWELL STREET, SUITE 220
disciplines, and those styles typically filed
under “English” are no exception. MARIETTA, GA 30060
Tel: (770) 431-0867
The world of English disciplines in
2011 is creatively multi-faceted now, Toll Free: (888) 303-5639
thanks to the passion of people who have Fax: (770) 432-6969
devoted time with their horses for sport Web: www.lionhrtpub.com
and recreation. And, they devote their
time to very specialized activities. While President John Llewellyn
English equitation may conjure visions E-mail: [email protected]
of formally attired riders concentrating (770) 431-0867, ext. 209
on gaits and poise, thousands of miles
away, polo players are strapping on knee- Art Director Alan Brubaker
pads for their next chukker. Dressage E-mail: [email protected]
under saddle contrasts radically from sta- (770) 431-0867, ext. 218
dium jumping in execution. Show-stop-
ping saddle seat extravagance is eschewed Assistant Art Director Lindsay Sport
in the subdued hunt field. The scope required of an eventer is of a different caliber than E-mail: [email protected]
the unflappable ruggedness needed for gymkhana. We may not stop often enough to (770) 431-0867, ext. 223
appreciate the options we have today among the variety of English disciplines.
Online Projects/FTP Manager Patton McGinley
Subtleties, desired and necessary, in dressage often are discovered easily in our hors- E-mail: [email protected]
es by way of their sensitivity to humans. The modern prevalence of warm blood horses (770) 431-0867, ext. 214
at the top of the dressage ranks does not diminish Iberian blood common in their her-
itage. In the same manner, the USDF and FEI success of our horses elevates them to a Display Advertising Sales Lisbeth Hencke
contemporary standard. How is my Grand Prix-level PRE anything like a string of polo Classifieds, Business Cards & E-mail: [email protected]
ponies in Argentina? Similarities do include delicate responsiveness to the rider’s body Stallion Directory Advertising Office: (757) 410-5836
language.
Cell: (361) 774-3957
Anyone with youngsters, and many others who find happiness showing their horses, Fax: (888) 802-1249
understand the draw of competition and the reliable feedback that equitation classes Publishing Editor Jennifer Morrell
provide. Are the class paces too different from driving to be comparable, or is it just a dif- 2011 Editoral Contacts Douglas E. Ramsay
ferent mode? Exhibiting the depth and fluidity of communication between the horse E-mail: [email protected]
and rider is what showing and driving are all about. Transitioning between gaits and (610) 593-3366
steering around gates may not seem too related, but read and enjoy Nadine Tilley’s dri- Barbara Price
ving experiences in this issue, and see if it strikes a chord with the fun you had with your E-mail: [email protected]
horse under saddle. A variety of organizations in the United States also conduct shows (760) 715-7803
where saddle seat for Andalusian and Lusitano horses and crossbreds dazzle patrons by Reprints Kelly Millwood
displaying the brio these horses are known to possess. E-mail: [email protected]
(770) 431-0867, ext. 215
Do you enjoy being airborne? We might invite more riders of Iberian horses to “fly” Non-member Subscriptions Amy Halvorsen
in stadium jumping and eventing. Perhaps the least likely of English equine sports in E-mail: [email protected]
which to find Andalusian and Lusitano horses engaged, these disciplines should beckon (770) 431-0867, ext. 205
Iberian Warmbloods and call out for more champions among us. The classic intelligence
of our horses may be just the right stuff for sound, split-second judgment required over ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
obstacles and terrain.
IALHA members: Included with membership
Around the world we espouse all of the English disciplines with our Spanish and Por- Non-IALHA members: $30 per year
tuguese horses. Are you foxhunting your Andalusian? Laughing aboard your Lusitano Mail Subscriptions to: Amy Halvorsen
during gymkhana? Showing half-andalusian sidesaddle? Andalusian Magazine invites
readers to let us know about how you “put a little English on it!” ◗ AM Lionheart Publishing, Inc.
506 Roswell Street, Suite 220
Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: (770) 431-0867, ext. 205

Andalusian Magazine (ISSN # 2151-5190) is published quarterly by the
International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

IALHA, 342 North Main Street, Suite 301, West Hartford, CT 06117-
2507. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any mechanical,
photographic or electronic process without prior written permission of
the publisher.

COPYRIGHT © 2011 IALHA
ANDALUSIAN Magazine is the official Publication of the International

Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association
All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.

8 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



IALHA Helping

Para-Equestrian Riders

to the 2012 Olympics

BY CHRISTINA CARDENAS

Most everyone knows what the IALHA
National Championships are about. But
do you know what our charity event is
about? The IALHA is hosting a fundraiser
in conjunction with the National Champi-
onships to raise awareness and financial
support for the United States Para-Eques-
trian Association (USPEA), which was
recently adopted as the eighth recog-
nized discipline with the United States
Equestrian Federation (USEF).

The USPEA was created to provide physically
disabled athletes with opportunities and leader-
ship for equestrian sport in the United States. The
primary focus is providing clinics and competi-
tion opportunities for these talented athletes.
Many of the USPEA athletes first were introduced
to horses through therapeutic riding programs,
whose objectives are to introduce riding to
improve balance, joint mobility, coordination,
muscle tone, and posture to ease symptoms of a
wide variety of disabilities.

The association gives Para-equestrian athletes
the ability to get involved and expand their
knowledge through a network of exceptional
riders, judges and national federation board
members, and providing opportunities to clinic
and train with the top riders in their disciplines

Right:

L -R -> Hope Hand, President of USPEA, smiles
with Kai Handt, owner/head trainer of

North Texas Equestrian Center, and USPEA rider
Jonathan Wentz on NTEC Richter Scale at the
Dressage Affaire in Del Mar, Calif.

Image courtesy of Lindsay Y. McCall

10 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

Right:
Jonathan riding NTEC Daytona Beach at the

Dressage Affaire in Del Mar, Calif.

Image courtesy of Lindsay Y. McCall

of choice. The USPEA encourages Para- Meet Jonathan Wentz
athletes to participate in all disciplines
under the Para-equestrian umbrella. From I would like to introduce to you a young rider named
local shows to international Olympic Jonathan Wentz, who has delighted the hearts of many able-bod-
Games, the USPEA provides the knowledge ied riders through his charisma, talent and determination to reach
and support of what is needed for success. his dreams of bringing home a gold medal for the U.S.A. at the
The USPEA connects with the Internation- 2012 Para-equestrian games in London. Wentz, age 20, was born
al Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federa- with cerebral palsy and began his riding career at the tender age
tion Equestre Internationale (FEI), the of 2, in the effort to combat the loss of strength, coordination,
United States Dressage Federation (USDF), flexibility and balance, all complications of cerebral palsy. He also
and USEF to provide Para-equestrians was born with a competitive drive and strong determination. At
access to top resources. A Para-equestrian
has the opportunity to reach the highest
level of his sport, including National
Championships, World Equestrian Games
and the Olympics. On Aug. 29, 2012, the Paralympics, to be held
at the same venue as the Olympic Games, will showcase the
Para-dressage competition.

The first major international dressage competition for riders
with physical disabilities came in 1984 at the World Games in
New York. In 1996, the Paralympic Games in Atlanta presented
with riders from 16 countries, and by 2004 that number nearly
had doubled to 29 countries. The 2010 World Equestrian Games
in Kentucky had 89 participating riders from 25 countries, with
10 riders from the United States.

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 11

2011 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW

age 5, Jonathan was introduced to a therapeutic riding center Jonathan Wentz has proven himself time and again in the dres-
called Equest in Wylie, Texas, where he began riding for sport. sage ring, and in 2008 he received qualifying scores toward the
Wentz began participating in vaulting, jumping, western pleasure 2009 Para-Equestrian Advanced Riders list.
and English equitation.
In November 2008, Wentz made a move to Texas to train with
At age 13, Wentz was told that he could no longer jump, due Kai Handt, owner and head trainer at North Texas Equestrian
to the weakness in his legs. This gave rise to a new focus for Center located in Wylie, Texas, where he currently trains six days a
Wentz: dressage. One year later, he competed in his first able-bod- week. Six months after he began his training with Kai, Wentz com-
ied competition at a USDF-recognized show, which inspired him peted at his first CEPDI3* and USEF Para Equestrian Nationals as
to set his sights on the Paralympics. During the last six years, a grade II, where he earned his certificate of capability and placed

seventh in the nation. During 2009, he competed
in 13 USDF-recognized shows and a CPEDI3*. At
the 2010 World Equestrian Games, riding his
Shire NTEC Richter Scale, he earned a 68.550,
which put them in 11th place.

As if training six days a week in dressage while
working at the barn to pay his board is not enough,
Wentz also is studying political science at Southern
Methodist University. He was honored recently,
when he was named to the USEF Youth Council,
representing the Para-equestrian discipline. He
credits all the horses in his life not only for giving
him a competitive sport in which to excel, but also
for giving him the ability to walk.

The IALHA is honored to have Jonathan
Wentz join us at the IALHA National Champi-
onships. Let’s help the USPEA to fulfill the goals
of Wentz and others in the same pursuit of their
riding dreams. Many of us realize the immense
expense of showing horses, but add the cost of
additional assistants who must travel with some
of the USPEA riders, not to mention the interna-
tional travel costs that usually run close to
$20,000 for one horse/rider team with coach,
assistants etc., and you can see why the USPEA is
so important to the success of these riders.

How you can help

You can assist through private patron sponsor-
ships, class sponsorships and identifying corporate
sponsors. And, we always need volunteers to assist
at the show and help it run smoothly. Donated
items to the silent and live auctions also would be
appreciated.

Please support this year’s National Champi-
onship Show and Charity Fundraiser, and help
make it a success. We will be donating 50 percent
of our profits this year to support the USPEA.

I will leave you with this thought: A USPEA
rider named Laurietta Oakleaf competes and per-
forms exhibitions with Andalusian stallion
Quimerico, and USPEA competitor Eleanor Brim-
mer rides Lusitano Vadico Interago.What does this
tell you about our wonderful breeds? ◗ AM

Christina Cardenas is the 2011 IALHA National

Show Chair.

12 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



Canadian Youth

REALIZES DREAM

BY JULIE ALONZO

InWHAT SOUNDS LIKE A HOLLY-
WOOD FANTASY, IALHA youth mem-
ber Kaylyn Steinhauer, age 17, showed her
Half-Andalusian gelding, VMF Arquero,
to eight Canadian National Champi-
onships and two Reserve titles at the 2011
Canadian National Show, July 22-24, in
Chilliwack, B.C., three years after her
father bought the horse as a yearling with the winning bid at the 2008
Canadian show benefit auction. The gelding (Tivio Jack Ms Holly x
VMF Valiente) was donated by Valhalla Andalusians to help raise funds
for the Pacific Association of the Andalusian and Lusitano Horse.

“We had come to the show to watch Kaylyn’s instructor show her a huge mistake.’ Looking back now, though, I think we’d all agree
horse,”said Larry, Kaylyn’s father,“and ended up staying for the Sat- that it was meant to be.”
urday evening fiesta event. I heard about the auction colt and real-
ized quickly that he looked like he would make a really special horse. The yearling gelding was brought home to the barn, where
When it was time for the auction, and I saw that people weren’t real- Kaylyn had been taking lessons, and she soon found herself
ly bidding, I started out just trying to help raise the bid. But as I kept immersed in the Quarter Horse world. The majority of boarders
on looking at him out there in the arena, I decided that he might at that facility were more into stock horses than anything else.
make a great horse for Kaylyn. I’m sure glad I was right.” VMF Arquero soon became a hit, though, with his chipper per-
sonality and eagerness to learn.
Kaylyn had been looking for a mature, trained horse to buy for
some time, but had never considered starting with one so young.
“When I realized what Dad had done,”she said,“I went back and forth
between crying out of excitement at having my first horse and crying
out of frustration that he wasn’t what I was looking for.I had been tak-
ing dressage lessons and had planned to buy something ready to show.
I wasn’t sure I had enough experience to train him, and I was worried
about how long it would take before he was ready to ride.”

Shaking his head in wry acknowledgment of the memory,
Larry chimed in,“I called my wife and said,‘I may have just made

Above:
Kaylyn Steinhauer and VMF Arquero at the Canadian Nationals.

Right:
Fine form, fine frame: Kaylyn and VMF Arquero exhibit their winning

style at the 2011 Canadian Nationals in Chilliwack, BC.

Image courtesy of Treasured Times Imagery

14 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

Left & Below: WISHING
Kaylyn’s achievements with EVERYONE
VMF Arquero are the product
of her dedication to raising him A GREAT
from a yearling, and exposing SHOW!
him to many different environ-
ments. North American Lusitano
Breeders Association
Image courtesy of Treasured Times Imagery
www.northamericanlusitano.com
Kaylyn continued her
lessons, working to expose
VMF Arquero to as many
different settings and situa-
tions as she could, to get him
used to new things.

“I think that really paid
off,” she said, patting his neck
as he stood in the warm up
arena at the show, carriages
rattling passed, and stallions raising a ruckus without VMF
Arquero displaying any evidence of nervousness.
Apparently, Judge Richard Petty agreed. Together, VMF
Arquero and Kaylyn earned National Championship titles in
Half-Andalusian Dressage Suitability Open, Youth, and Amateur;
Half-Andalusian English Pleasure Open and Youth; and Half-
Andalusian English Show Hack Open, Youth, and Amateur. The
two also won Reserve National Championships in Half-Andalu-
sian Geldings and Stallions All Ages, Amateur to Handle and
Half-Andalusian Sport Horse In Hand in the ever-competitive
Canadian event. Such achievements would be notable in any cir-
cumstance. What makes them even more special, however, is the
fact that Kaylyn has trained VMF Arquero from the time he was
a yearling, until he swept the show as a 4-year-old.
Their achievements helped encourage steady bidding for this
year’s auction horse, a lovely Half-Andalusian filly, half sister to
VMF Arquero, also donated by Valhalla Andalusians. ◗ AM

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 15





The

Art and Soul

of Driving

BY BARBARA PRICE

THE TILLEY CARRIAGE HOUSE The equestrian sport of driving has
been around for centuries. Some histo-

rians say it even pre-dates the riding of horses.
While early driving endeavors were purely
work-related functions, generally as trans-
portation for people and goods, the sport of
competitive driving became popular in East-
ern Europe in the late-19th century.

With the advent of modern transportation
vehicles, and the rise of other equestrian disci-
plines for sport, many predicted the art of dri-
ving horses would fade into the annals of
equine history. The sport, however, remains
alive and well, and continues to grow among
many breeds, including the versatile Andalu-
sians, Lusitanos and partbreds.

The International Equestrian Federation
(FEI) recognized driving as competitive sport
in 1969, elevating its position to the interna-
tional level and further boosting its status in
the equestrian world. The United States Eques-
trian Federation (USEF) sanctions carriage pleasure driving compe-
titions open to all breeds of horses and ponies, as well as in breed-
restricted classes at breed competitions.
Within our breed association, it would be hard to find anyone
more well-known or accomplished in the discipline of driving than

It was love at first sight for Nadine Tilley, when she happened upon a dri- All of the vehicles on display at the museum are personal carriages, the
ving exhibition many years ago at a horse show in Santa Barbara, Calif. type that would have been used by individuals or for private use. The car-
Frank Jordano had put together an exhibition with antique driving carts and riages continue to be used frequently by Tilley at exhibitions, fairs and other
carriages, accompanied by a live philharmonic orchestra. venues. The museum also houses memorabilia and art she has acquired
during her many years in the show arena and through her involvement with
“It was classy, and the vehicles were so magnificent,” says Tilley, her Andalusian horses.
admiration still evident after all these years.
Entrance to The Tilley Carriage House is by invitation or inquiry only.
That event sparked Tilley’s interest in carriage collecting, and culminat- According to Tilley, she gets many requests to see the collection. “I have a
ed in the opening of The Tilley Carriage House in Los Angeles. The private lot of inquiries, even from as far away as Europe,” she says. “Driving is start-
museum showcases more than 20 antique carriages from the 1800s to ing to come back in popularity.”
the early-1900s.
And Nadine Tilley, perhaps, has done as much as anyone to bring
“That is the era I really love,” Tilley says. “They are known for their beau- Andalusians in this glorious sport to the forefront.
tiful lines and undercarriages.”

18 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

Opposite Page:
Nadine Tilley and Andalusian mare Aleah
TA bring home a blue ribbon for Country

Pleasure Driving.

Photo courtesy of B Smith Photography

Right:
A beautiful day for a drive: Andalusian
mare Gracia Espanta with driver Nadine
Tilley at the Santa Ynez Pleasure Driving

Days in California.

Photo courtesy of Nadine Tilley

Nadine Tilley of Tilley Andalusians.

Affectionately known in driving circles

as “Our Lady of Perpetual Driving,”

Tilley and her horses have earned more than 50 IALHA National near mishaps while driving, although none entailed injury to

Championship titles, and regional honors too numerous to count. horses or handlers.

Having successfully introduced Andalusians to the driving world in “I’ve been driving for three decades, and I got into it because I

multiple disciplines, Tilley is a consummate match for the elegance thought it was something I could do into my older years,” Tilley

and style of equine driving. Her beautiful attire, impeccably trained says with a laugh. “The horses know that when you say ‘whoa’ it

horses, and exquisite carriages always are stand outs in the show and means stop!”

exhibition rings. She first became enamored with the sport due to a physical

An avid equestrian for more than 30 years, Tilley was honored in condition she thought would preclude her from being on a

2010 by USEF as one of eight equestrian champions nominated for horse’s back. Clearly not one to step away from a challenge, Tilley

Equestrian of the Year, representing the Andalusian/Driving category. not only still is riding as well as driving, but she’s doing so after

She also was the recipient of the Bill Robinson Trophy, which is pre- two hip replacements.

sented to an equestrian with horses or ponies across all breeds in har- “I am very privileged to have been able to do this all these

ness or for driving performance in non-international competitions. years, and to have these gorgeous horses that I’m able to partner

“I only have Andalusians and Half-Andalusians, and that’s all with,” says Tilley.“I feel very blessed.” ◗ AM

I’ve ever competed with,” says Tilley.“I

find them to be very good driving

horses. Their minds are so coopera-

A DRIVING FORCEtive, and they seem to like the disci-

pline.” Cara Rothrock, of Rothrock Andalusians, is also an ardent proponent of Andalusian driving horses.
She believes driving is an excellent “Andalusians are such beautiful movers. I think they are absolutely breathtaking to watch, and are a
blast to drive under harness,” she enthuses.
start and training tool for all her horses,

whether or not they go on to compete “I have always loved driving since I owned horses, but never competed until I owned an Andalusian.”

in driving. “It’s a wonderful discipline Rothrock has since earned the USEF High Point Driving Award in 2008 with their black stallion Fan-

for young horses. It gives their minds dango del Sol, and in 2009 and 2010 with stallion RA Devante (at 3 and 4 years old).
something to focus on, and it aids their Rothrock believes Andalusians, with their high intelligence and trusting nature, make superb driving
body development without having to
carry a rider.” horses. This was especially evident to her while at a show where, probably against her better judgment,
she was talked into competing in a carriage cone class with Devante. Only 4 years old at the time,
She points out that the Iberian Devante had never been around cones on an obstacle course before and there was no time to practice.
breeds, with their ability to do dres- Onto the course they went. Devante didn’t miss a stride and the cones didn’t seem to faze him. They
misjudged one turn and weren’t going to

sage, their strength and stamina, and make it through the cones. Not to worry,

their athletic agility, are outstanding Devante backed up for a better angle

candidates for combined driving as and sailed through the rest of the cones.
well as pleasure driving. Needless to say, he left quite an impres-
sion on Rothrock that day.
“Combined driving is fashioned

after three-day eventing, only with dri-

ving horses,” she says. “On each of the RA Devante, driven by Cara Rothrock

three days you do a different disci- to a national championship win in
pline. It’s fun and very challenging.” Country Pleasure Driving Amateur at

Challenging indeed, as the 60- the IALHA National Show in 2009.
something Tilley can recount a few
Photo courtesy of Kim David

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 19

Showing the

IBERIAN HORSE
IN HAND

BY CAROL M. STOCKTON

SHOWING YOUR HORSE WELL IN HAND ISN’T SO MUCH ABOUT MAKING
YOUR HORSE MOVE AS LETTING HIM MOVE. The Spanish are masters of this. You can

watch it almost endlessly on SICAB-TV, and, much of the time, the handler isn’t even visible in the
frame of the camera. It seems more like an art than a skill. Nevertheless, the essential elements can be
learned. However, you need a sincere desire to show off your horse to best advantage, because this is
something that takes practice – for you and your horse.

By the way, there will be nothing in this article about Spanish
clip, serreta, traje corto, or the other accouterments of
horse and handler. This article is about movement.
During many years of watching handlers and hors-
es in halter classes, I have seen few Americans who
have mastered the art of presenting a horse in hand.
Many presentations are limited by the traditional
sport-horse method of the triangle, in which the han-
dler has to stop or slow down the horse at each corner.
We who show Andalusian and Lusitano horses in the
manner prescribed by IALHA have the good fortune
of being allowed much more freedom in how our
horses are presented, thanks to the traditions of Spain.

Presenting a horse in an IALHA (or any Spanish-style) show
actually can be broken into a handful of relatively straightforward
principles. The first – and probably most important – is to let go
of your horse’s face. You have a lead that can be as much as 12 feet
long (per USEF rules), you are in an enclosed show arena, and
you are in the company of some of the most well-behaved hors-
es in the world. Andalusians are so good-tempered that there is
just no reason to fear your horse is going to do something horri-
ble if you give him more room to move.

Above:
IALHA/USEF Classes allow a long lead - 12’ in most cases and should
maintain a discernible drape.

Photo courtesy of Carol Stockton

Right:
Put your hand out towards your horse’s shoulder, prompting an arch-
ing of the neck and raising of the back.

20 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

In fact, USEF rule AL105.4 actually says, “The lead line must If the judge specifies (and some do) that you must make the turn by
maintain a clearly discernible drape, i.e., the exhibitor must not having your horse turn away from you,sport-horse style,it is more dif-
place their hand on the chain or close enough to in any way ficult to turn“without stopping”and more difficult to maintain good
restrict natural head and neck motion.” movement. However, you can optimize the result by teaching your
horse to pivot out of your way.You may have to shorten the lead until
So why do you have a death-grip on the lead line just six inch- you reach a distance at which your horse will turn, but you should
es below your horse’s chin? Let go. never have to completely take up the slack.I recommend investing in a
sport-horse handling clinic in your area to perfect this turn.
At the walk, unless you have trained your horse to travel at a dis-
tance from you, your hand should be holding the lead about three The USEF rules specify a distinct pattern for the presentation of
feet from where the lead attaches to the halter. An important tip – Andalusian and Lusitano horses, but some judges have their own
and a hard habit to break – is to drop your hand that is holding the preferences, so you likely will run into variations. Nevertheless, some
lead line, so your elbow is relaxed. Putting your hand up near your
horse’s head can impede his movement.

At the trot, you should use as much or all of
the 12 feet of lead you are permitted by USEF
rules. The height of your hand is less important, as
long as the lead line is slack (but never touching or
even close to the ground).

A corollary to this is: Don’t drag your horse
along, and don’t let him drag you along. Many han-
dlers walk either in front of the horse’s head or
behind the horse’s shoulder. Being too far in front of
your horse sends a signal to slow down or stop,
resulting in your trying to get your horse to move by
pulling on the lead line. Being too far back puts you
in“driving position,”which is a signal for your horse
to go. You may never catch up, resulting in your
pulling on the lead line in the other direction. The
best position for a handler is in the region from the
horse’s throatlatch to the horse’s shoulder, where you
can keep an eye on what your horse is doing with
his head, and he can keep an eye on you without his
forward movement being impeded. This is especial-
ly important at the walk.

At the trot, your horse is (or should be) far
enough away from you that this relative position is
less important, although if you get too far behind
you may end up having to circle your horse around
you before continuing your straight-line trot. If your
horse does break gait or cut in front of you, just
calmly circle him around you, and then resume your
straight line when he has returned to a trot. Remind
yourself,“It’s no big deal.”

At each end of the arena, you have to turn your
horse around. USEF rule AL105.4 says that you
may turn your horse either direction, but that you
must do so “without stopping.” Unless the judge
has specified otherwise, the best way to maintain
and encourage good movement is to turn your
horse in a big half-circle around you, rather than
away from you. The same rule also permits “one
intentional circle at either end.” I highly recom-
mend taking advantage of this allowed circle. It
actually can improve your horse’s trot, since, in
coming out of this relatively small circle, he should
strike off enthusiastically into a straight line, which
is easier and more comfortable for him than such
a small circle.

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 21

SHOWING IN HAND

part of the pattern will require you to move your horse for some At first,he may trot just several steps before circling in front of you,
considerable distance in a straight line.And, remember, you want to but, if you continue practicing this, you eventually will be able to take
do this with as much space as possible between you and your horse, him in a straight-line trot for at least the prescribed minimum distance
so he can move forward freely. This also has the advantage of giving of 60 feet.I suggest working up to a straight-line trot of at least 100 feet,
the judge an unimpeded view of your horse. since most show rings these days are quite large.

Getting your horse to“trot up”at the end of a relaxed,12-foot lead An important“tip”for success with this straight-line trot is: Look
takes some practice. I have found that the best way to accomplish it is straight ahead, and do not look at your horse.When you are trotting
to longe your horse until he is moving easily and then,just as he comes your horse up the centerline to present him to the judge (who
almost parallel to one side of the arena (which should also put him should be standing in the center of the arena), assure you are point-
slightly behind your shoulder as you turn to face the direction you ing your horse – not you – directly at the judge. Don’t worry about
want to go), run like crazy toward the other end of the arena. running over the judge; either your horse will stop in time, or the

judge will step to the side. It’s more important that
the judge be able to see your horse’s movement
from directly in front.

Although I am focusing on movement, I do
want to finish with mention of the standing por-
tion of the presentation, because I have seen it
done wrong so often.

USEF rule AL105.4 says, “The horse should
stand with front legs square. Back legs should be
positioned either square or with one slightly
behind the other. The horse should not be
stretched,” which means“all four feet are flat on the
ground and at least one front and one rear cannon
bone are perpendicular to the ground.”

Rules aside, if you “camp out” your horse, his
back will drop and his head will come up, ruining
his neck’s graceful arch. It also will make the desired
square profile appear rectangular. Train your horse
to stand as squarely as possible, with legs well under
him. If you need to adjust his stance, do so by hav-
ing him step back,not forward.And,if you can’t get
the perfect stance quickly, stop fussing with your
horse. It only will make him fidget more, and it just
plain looks bad. It also will help if you don’t stand
too close to your horse’s head, which invites him to
step forward and/or obscures the judge’s view.

One last tip for standing presentation that I
heard from Sr. Juan Llamas at an Eastern Region
Andalusian Horse Club show some years ago:
When the judge is looking at your horse’s neck and
back, hold out your hand toward your horse’s nose
at about shoulder height (his shoulder, not yours).
Your horse should reach forward with his nose,
arching his neck and raising his back. Just be careful
this doesn’t encourage your horse to step forward.

In closing, let me remind you that none of this
happens like magic when you and your horse step
into the show ring. You need to practice and pre-
pare in order to achieve the best results. Naturally,
there is always that last-minute decision to bring a
horse you hadn’t been planning to bring, but if you
are prepared through working with your other
horses, then you have at least half of the equation
in place. So, keep practicing with your horse(s),
and you will find it pays off at your next in-hand
presentation. Good luck! ◗ AM

22 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



Where We Have Been
Old Stonehouse Farm:

Iberian Horse Open House

Presence, personality and pure extravagance

BY SARAH GATELY-WILSON

On June 25-26, 2011, Old Stonehouse Farm Above:
opened its doors to the public, inviting guests to experi-
Bernardo OSF, ridden by owner, Jacqueline Seila with trainer Chris Fanegoo
ence Andalusian and Lusitano horses in person. Located in east-
ern Pennsylvania, our working farm took a weekend break from Photo Credit: Sarah Gately Wilson
daily agricultural work to highlight our horses.
obstacle course will be designed and set up in the gardens with an
It is always fun to see people meet their first Iberian horses. entertaining fall harvest theme. Demonstrations will be given by
Visitors enjoyed spending time immersed in the horses, and the champion working equitation competitors from the Northeast.
event was a great opportunity to mingle and make new connec- Our classical dressage clinic sessions will be ongoing throughout
tions in a fun and relaxed environment. Watching horse-and- the weekend and, of course, all of the fun will be open to the pub-
rider pairs work with trainer Chris Fanego of Signature Horse lic to watch and enjoy.
Training gave spectators a chance to see Spanish and Portuguese
horses at different levels of training, working and learning from For more information, call Old Stonehouse Farm at
someone experienced with this special breed of horse. Attendees 570-897-6895, or visit our website for updates,
were coached, and Fanego rode some of the farm’s young horses www.oldstonehousefarm.com. ◗ AM
to demonstrate the natural abilities and talents of the Iberian
horse. Fanego enjoyed speaking with the crowd, fielding questions
about style, methodology and the differences between these hors-
es and other breeds.

Currently home to more than 25 Iberian horses, Old Stone-
house Farm breeds pure Spanish Andalusians, Spanish-Por-
tuguese Andalusians, Iberian Warmbloods and Aztecas. In
addition to the farm’s own stock on hand for the open house,
friends brought their Iberian horses to participate in Doma Clas-
sica clinics with Chris Fanego. The Bridle Shop also was open for
visitors to see and purchase Spanish and Portuguese bridles as
well as artwork and baroque tack.

A second open house is planned for Oct. 22-23, focusing on
classical dressage and working equitation. Our working equitation

TRAVELER® MAKES APPEARANCE AT BURBANK MASCOT PARADE

Andalusian gelding Tuno IV, also known as the famous USC mascot Traveler®, was a star
attraction at the Burbank Centennial Mascot Parade July 8 in Burbank, Calif.
He joined a number of other well-known characters, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse
and Bugs Bunny. An estimated 40,000 people attended the parade. Tuno is owned by
Joanne Asman.

Photo Credit: Joanne Asman

24 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

An Andalusian Fairy Tail

Most fairy tales have a happy ending, and this Andalusian Fairy Tail is no exception. As a child,
Nancy Latta was fascinated with all things horses, including her Breyer Horse model collection,
which numbered more than 100 horses of all sizes and types. Fast forward to 2011, and Nancy and
her Amandalusian Farm team found them-
selves front-and-center this summer at the
“Fairy Tails” 2011 Breyerfest in Lexington,
Ky. Their stunning Andalusian stallion, Krip-
ton-Seni II, was honored as an official 2011
Breyer Horse model and was a real-life
equine star, complete with admiring crowds,
photo opportunities, and autograph seekers.

Nancy’s fond memories of the special
event are recounted below.

“Breyer model horses have been produced for 60 Above:
years and, for the last 22 years, the company has held
Top: Andalusian stallion Kripton-Seni II, Breyer horse model #1472,
an annual event called BreyerFest to showcase the current year’s shows his magnificent presence and disposition for two young admirers
model line. Collectors, dealers and people from all over the world at Breyerfest 2011.
with a passion for horses can come together to sell, trade, enjoy
and learn about the horse. Left: Kripton-Seni II’s stall sign announced his designated autograph
times.
Breyerfest 2011 was held at the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park
in Lexington, where the theme was “Fairy Tails.” July 15-17 was a Right: Kripton patiently supervised as Amanda Latta executed his many
once-in-a-lifetime experience for Kripton-Seni II and his family, autograph requests.
who traveled 2,162 miles from California to Kentucky to attend.
Images courtesy of Nancy Latta
Since Kripton is current year model Horse
#1472, he was invited to attend as a guest horse,
to perform, sign autographs (with some help
from me, my daughter Amanda, and our train-
er, Sandy) and do meet-and-greets for photos
each of the three days of the event.

Kripton was content to stand and let kids
and adults pet, pat and rub on him, treating him
like a rock star. He even got with the program
and posed for the cameras. For each of his per-
formances, Kripton demonstrated his versatility
by showing examples of the 16 gaits he must
perform when competing in Hunt Seat Plea-
sure, Western Pleasure, Show Hack, dressage Hack, Heritage Cos-
tume, and open dressage.

We were touched emotionally by the 10,000 people in atten-
dance, because they all have a passion for horses. Their smiles and
yes, tears, have given us memories to cherish for a lifetime. It has
been said that the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man,
and we witnessed that each time a child, no matter the age, walked
up to Kripton, and his Andalusian eyes looked into theirs!” ◗ AM

Do you have a submission for Where We Have Been (interesting places you have been with your IALHA horse)? For consideration in future
issues, send photos with brief information to: [email protected] Please put Where We Have Been Submission in the subject line.

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 25

business

CARDS

26 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

JOIN US FOR THE

IALHA NATIONAL SHOW

October 10-17, 2011
Will Rogers Arena, Ft Worth, TX

www.ialha.org

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 27

stallion

LISTINGS

28 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org

ROMANTICS WANTED:

CONSIDER YOUR STALLION
FOR THE

2012 IALHA STALLION AUCTION!

www.ialha.org

Issue 2 | 2011 ANDALUSIAN 29

andalusian

CLASSIFIEDS

andalusian

CLASSIFIEDS

L e a s e dFor Lease or Sale: GR Soulcatcher 9703(S). Regaton II x GR Sunrunner. 5 yr. maiden mare, grey, 15 hds. Old, international/national champi-

onship bloodlines. Sire Spanish import. Dam is from a Garrison Ranch stallion out of a Banbury Cross mare. Contact for pictures/pedigree.
$10,000 negotiable. Golden Eagle, IL 618-883-2397 [email protected]

3/4 Andalusian Mares: Beautiful matched pair of 3/4 Andalusian 9 year old bay mares. Sound to ride or breed. $3,000 each or $5,000 for the
pair. Also several registered 1/2 Andalusian mares (gray, bay and chestnut) sired by My Valentino by Temerario V. Going out of business - beau-
tiful horses at bargain prices. For more info. call (406) 388-1760

Registered Andalusian Mares For Sale: 12 year old mare named Vista, microchip implant, light grey, grandsire is Teodoro. 6 year old mare, daugh-
ter of Vista, microchip implant, grey, Teodoro linebred, ready for training. 2 year old filly, daughter of Vista, microchip implant, bay color, sire is
Dejado Habano.All three current on shots.$10,000 each or discount for multiple purchases.Lander,Wyoming (307) 335-7218 or [email protected]

30 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011 www.ialha.org



Extreme Index to

Versatility | by Doug Ramsay Advertisers

Hope Must Rein 26 Carver Mountain Farms
27 Cheri Prill Photography & Design
During the last seven years, with 11 ColoradoAndalusians.com
26 Garrison Ranch
tremendous support from beloved family 26 Gloriosa Farms
C1, 2-3 Haras Dos Cavaleiros
and friends, Sarah Vogeley has been dedi- 22 Interagro Lusitanos
13, 21 International Andalusian Lusitano
cated to the volunteer service of search and
Horse Association (IALHA)
rescue (SAR) near her Virginia home, and 26 La Tienda Española
16-17, C3 Las Morerías
even farther afield. Assisting her unit from
7 Legacy Farms
the back of her Lusitano mare, Recusa 26 Lyric Dressage
15 North American Lusitano Breeders
Interagro, connects her passions in an
Association (NALBA)
admirable and benevolent way. After sev- 23 Pacific Association of the

eral years of experience in ground search Andalusian & Lusitano Horse
(PAALH)
and rescue, Vogeley joined a highly recog- 9 Peet Equestrian
15 Pin Oak Charity Horse Show
nized unit that specializes in mounted 27 Rancho del Lago
26 Regal Equestrian Center
search and rescue. She is a member of the C4 Rivera's Andalusian Farm
C2 Rothrock Andalusians
TROTSAR Mounted Search & Rescue 12 Silverstar Ranch
26 Soft Tree Saddles
Team Inc., a non-profit organization that Search and Rescue team: Sarah Vogeley and her 1 Sommer Ranch
evolved from a community service effort Lusitano Recusa Interagro 27 Spanish Gate Andalusians
call the TROT (Trail Riders of Today) 27 Twin Creeks Ranch
Search Team. Image courtesy of Sarah Vogeley 5 Yeguada Aquilino Fraile
27 Yeguada Romerito
TROTSAR is an all-volunteer-based SAR, providing emergency rescue opera-
www.ialha.org
tions and/or lifesaving measures for people who have become lost or stranded in

wilderness, rural, even urban and suburban settings. Vogeley’s particular team can

be deployed in mountain SAR, wilderness SAR and urban/suburban SAR from the

Shenandoah Mountains out to the greater Chesapeake Bay area. Large-animal res-

cue also is on their agenda.

Vogeley’s life and career path always have included largesse as a recreation therapist,

so it is fitting to learn how she was motivated to join TROTSAR at the behest of the wife

of the Albermarle, Va., sheriff. The sheriff’s wife reached out to Vogeley in the hope of

initiating a local, mounted SAR, after it was reported that a 12-year-old child had gone

missing in the area and, subsequently, died of exposure.

Conducting searches on horseback “develops and achieves a unique and highly ben-

eficial perspective in varying terrains and environments,” Vogeley says. She aptly notes

that the eyes, ears and nose of a horse are a genuine assist when working on a search task.

For the human partner, a horse offers height and scope, preserving the energy and con-

centration of the rider in terrain that can be exhausting on foot. Mounted SAR even has

advantages when compared to modern helicopter efficiency in heavily wooded areas,

including many suburban neighborhoods, where the tree canopy can render air search

infeasible.

Stringent and thorough evaluations for horse and rider are necessary to qualify as a

TROTSAR volunteer. A commitment to the on-going training is required, along with

the capacity for enthusiasm. For a detailed description of the team requirements and

necessary certifications, visit the TROTSAR website, www.trotsar.org/index.htm. Voge-

ley has provided some examples of test circumstances through which the equine part-

ner must remain unflappable (in the daylight and the darkness) in order to become part

of TROTSAR. These include tolerating sirens and police lights, proximity and maneu-

vers around flares, various bridges, 30-minute tie-ups, and calmness encountering dogs

and working in conjunction with them.

On April 10, 2011, Vogeley and Recusa Interagro passed the horse-and-rider evalua-

tion with the on-going support of her fellow team members. Vogeley attributes the suc-

cess to Recusa’s think-first self-confidence, which honors her heritage and her TROTSAR

training. Andalusian Magazine congratulates Sarah Vogeley & Recusa on this milestone

in their lifesaving service to the region. ◗ AM

32 ANDALUSIAN Issue 2 | 2011