In & Around Horse Country

VOLUME XXII / NUMBER 6 • THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA STEEPLECHASE ASSOCIATION • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2011

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY, 60 ALEXANDRIA PIKE, WARRENTON, VA 20186

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2011 1

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 20112

Regular subscription 6 issues $25.00, U.S.A. First Class subscription $35.00, Europe, Canada, etc. $45.00COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Janet HitchenOTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS:Liz Callar www.lizcallar.comJohn J. Carle II, ex-MFHDiana De RosaLauren R. GianniniElisabeth HarphamJanet Hitchen 540-837-9846 janethitchenphotography.comHorsephotos.comPat IkeMichael JohnsonKeeneland photoDouglas Lees 540-270-1946 [email protected] McNallyJim Meads, U.K. 011-44-1686-420436Karen Myers klmimages.comNYRABetsy Burke ParkerDebby ThomasVTA LAYOUT & DESIGN: Kate Houchin

is a bimonthly publication.Editorial and Advertising Address: 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186For information and advertising rates, please call (540) 347-3141, fax (540) 347-7141Space Deadline for the December/January issue is Nov. 15, 2011. Payment in full due with copy.Publisher: Marion Maggiolo Managing Editor: J. Harris AndersonAdvertising: Mary Cox (540) 636-7688 Horse Country (540) 347-3141Contributors: Aga; J. Harris Anderson; John J. Carle II, ex-MFH; Lauren R. Giannini; Jim Meads;Will O’Keefe; Clare Palmer; Betsy Burke Parker; Virginia Thoroughbred Association; JennyYoungCopyright 2011 In & Around Horse Country®. All Rights Reserved. Volume XXII, No. 6

SPORTING LIFE HIGHLIGHTS

Kathleen O’Keefe on Dudley, winner ofthe Theodora A. Randolph Field HunterChampionship of North America,October 2, 2011, Middleburg, VA, andWill O’Keefe.

Orange County Hunt Team Event Planned for October 30thThe Orange County Hunt Cross Country Team Event will be held Sunday, October30th at Old Whitewood Farm near The Plains, with the popular Junior HunterChampionship. In 1987, the OCH Team Event, modeled after the English Team Chase,was created to offer an event with something for every level of foxhunter.

The OCH Team Event features teams of three to four horses or ponies gallopingover a rolling course of walls, coops, rails and hay bales in two main divisions: LimitHunters and Genuine Hunters. Team prizes are awarded for ideal time, best turned outand best hunt team. A Genuine Hunter championship also is awarded.

Call (540) 253-5356 for prize lists. Entries close Monday Oct. 24 by 6 p.m.• • • •

National Sporting Library to Unveil Museum and Inaugural ExhibitThe National Sporting Library, originally founded in 1954 “to preserve and to sharethe art, literature and culture of horse and field sports” will soon be rededicated as theNational Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM). A state-of-the-art renovation andexpansion of Vine Hill, an 1804 Federal manor house located on the library’s campusin Middleburg, Virginia, will house the library’s rapidly expanding permanent collec-tion of fine paintings, sculpture, and objets d’art. The new museum will be completedin the fall of 2011, and visitors will be welcomed through the doors of this historicbrick structure to view exhibitions in an inviting setting, very much like the houses forwhich these works of art were originally commissioned.

Works by American, British, and Continental artists, such as Abraham VanCalraet, John Emms, Herbert Haseltine, Pierre Jules Mêne, Sir Alfred Munnings, JohnR. Skeaping, Edward Troye, and Franklin Brooke Voss will be on display. The muse-um’s new wing, a two-story gallery space, will be the venue for exhibitions of animaland sporting art developed by the curatorial staff and researched in the library’s exten-sive collection of 17,000 sporting books, periodicals, archives, and other media.NSLM’s staff will work with visiting scholars to offer fresh perspective to the accept-ed masterworks of the genre, and will seek to bring these works and many more thatare as yet undiscovered to public view.

Paintings and sculpture are currently being drawn from private collections, muse-ums, and other institutions throughout the United States for Afield in America: 400Years of Animal and Sporting Art, 1585 - 1985. This landmark exhibit, the first to beheld in the new museum building, is designed to raise awareness of the importance ofworks of this genre as a reflection of American history and cultural life and will be onview from October 2011 through January 2012.

For more information, go to www.nsl.org or call (540) 687-6542.• • • •

Washington International Horse ShowVerizon Center, October 25 – 30

An equestrian tradition since 1958, the Washington International Horse Show bringstop horses and riders from the U.S. and abroad, including Olympic champions, to thenation’s capital to compete for more than $415,000 in prize money and championshiptitles. About 500 horses participate in show jumping,hunters and equitation events during the six-dayshow. Entertaining exhibitions, communityevents and specialty shopping round out this family-friendly show. WIHS is a 501 (c) (3) charitableorganization. Two performances are held daily,except Sunday.

Of special note is Barn Night on Thursday,October 27, when Verizon Center lights up with allthe colorful barn-themed face painting in an effort towin contests and get recognized. On Saturday,October 29, Kids’ Day is front and center with freepony riders, fun family activities, face painting andmore. It all happens from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in a

tent outside Verizon Center. For the past two years the Washington International HorseShow has been working with the Caisson Platoon, whose primary focus is the buryingof fallen soldiers.

For more information and to order tickets, go to www.wihs.org.• • • •

Annual Cleveland Bay Foxhunt Slated for Farnley Farm

North American Cleveland Bays will join the Blue Ridge Hunt for a Cleveland BayHunting Day at Farnley Farm, in White Post, Virginia, on Saturday, November 19.Hounds are scheduled to meet at 11 a.m. Farnley Farm was home to the late AlexanderMackay-Smith, a noted Cleveland Bay breeder and legendary Blue Ridge HuntMFH, who played an influential role in the perpetuation of the Cleveland Bay breed inNorth America. A note of appreciation is extended to the Blue Ridge Hunt and HettyMackay-Smith Abeles for this generous opportunity to pay homage to part of thebreed’s history.

All Cleveland Bay owners and fanciers are invited to attend. A special $75 cap-ping fee will apply on this day for Cleveland Bay owners and breeders. Anyone inter-ested in further information about the breed or participation should contact MarciaBrody at [email protected].

• • • •Foxhound Wins Two Best in Shows

The Hunt Country cluster of back-to-back dog shows in one location was held fromSeptember 29 through October 2, 2011 at historic Long Branch, Millwood, Virginia.On Friday, September 30, the Warrenton Kennel Club all breed show had a surpriseending. After considering the group winners, Judge Robert Vandiver picked theEnglish Foxhound “GCH CH Sunup’s Parliament,” known more casually as Parley,Best in Show. The second event, also a Warrenton Kennel Club show, was held onSaturday, October 1, 2011. After winning Best in Show on Friday, Parley decided todo it again on Saturday. This time, Judge Donavan Thompson chose Parley Best inShow. Parley was handled both days by Linda Hylton.

Folks are not sure when the last time, if ever, an English Foxhound won back-to-back BIS, but it is an exceptional happening for AKC’s rarest breed. It is worth notingwhen a rare breed takes a Best in Show and, by AKC standards, they don’t get muchrarer than the English Foxhound. The breed ranksdead last in AKC registrations with only 17 dogsregistered in 2010. Congratulations to breedersCornelia Dettmer, MD and Sue Whaley, and ownersMr. and Mrs. Craig Heile and Sue Whaley. Thanksto them all for keeping this great breed before theAmerican public.

Earlier in the week, on September 29, theEnglish Foxhound Club of America NationalSpecialty was also held at Long Branch and the Bestin Breed was “Sunup’s Trademark” repeating hiswin at the Specialty in 2010. He is owned by VinceNicholson, bred by Sue Whaley, and handled byWhitney Meeks.

Best of Breed at theNational Specialty Show“Sunup’s Trademark.”Janet Hitchen photo

Cleveland Bays gather for annual Cleveland Bay hunt.Liz Callar photo

Hillary Dobbs competing on UdentoVDL at 2010 Washington

International. Diana De Rosa photo.


Rain was bucketing down at 5 a.m. on Sunday,September 25, casting a foggy veil of uncertainty overRappahannock’s plans to host the Thornton Hill FortValley Hounds at Larry Levy’s “The Hill.” Less stalwartfoxhunters would have cancelled, but the Brown boys’resolve was solid steel and waterproof, as was that of theRappahannock Hunt members, and their warm welcomereduced the rain to a persistent mist. A field of approxi-mately 40, split among first, second and “fun” flights,ignored the weather, treating it as an adventure ratherthan an inconvenience.

Huntsman Michael Brown brought a fit pack of15½ couple of Crossbred hounds that, after waitingpatiently for OliverBrown, MFH, and hisJoint Master, GusEdwards, to welcomethe eager throng, frol-icked joyfully across theemerald green hayfieldto the first covert. Ashounds drew westwardthrough hidden pockets of dense sanctuary, it becameincreasingly obvious that the rain had caused foxes toseek shelter elsewhere, either underground or underroof. Undaunted, hounds drew on, exploring every like-ly nook, swinging northward through the dense woodsbordering “Longlea,” where the infamous “toilet jump”claimed its usual share of victims. Finally, after a longhour of frustration, hounds found a brace near the north-ern boundary of “The Hill.” 2½ couple got away ahead,

but the lowering fog slowedtheir progress enough forMichael to rally most of hiswidely spread pack. They set-tled, unfortunately, on the foxthat ran northeastward, as ifbound for the Boston PostOffice. In the fog, sound carriedhardly at all, and all but firstflight could only guess at whatwas happening. Hounds enjoyeda decent burst on this fox, buttheir pilot knew well that he was

welcome in the adjoining subdivi-sion and hounds were not, and hewas soon rewarded with the sound ofhis pursuers being lifted. Houndswere stopped on a fresh fox thatcrossed Route 522.

Drawing back through “TheHill,” hounds found the line of a foxthat 20 minutes earlier had passedclose to the car followers, but out of

sight of all but a sharp-eyed crow, who quietly remarkedon his passage. The wet weather was not to this fellow’sliking, apparently, and he went soon to ground.Gathering his pack, Michael drew down to the usually-productive coverts along Devil’s Run, where the secondfox of the original brace had nonchalantly sashayed anhour earlier. The pack drew in a huge uphill semi-circle,thoroughly hunting the dense woods and tangled CREPland, then southward to anotherlong finger of woodland thatslopes to Devil’s Run. Here theyburst into joyous, high-pitchedcry that echoed eerily through thesteadily thickening fog, seemingto come from several places atonce, then suddenly vanishing.The worsening conditions hadhounds struggling, their progressof the fits-and-starts sort, buttheir resolve undiminished. After30 minutes of elusive doublingand circling proved unproductive, this crafty fox set hismark for another ZIP code southward and, when his lineled into unpaneled land across Griffinsburg Road,Michael lifted his pack, ending a long, damp, demand-ing and often – for hounds and Huntsman – frustratingday. Although disappointed by scenting conditions, hewas a huntsman justifiably proud of his pack’s perform-ance and perseverance, as he led a wet, muddied andbedraggled field back to the ribald camaraderie of a wel-come tailgate. We’ll do it again soon, hopefully undermore auspicious circumstances.

FOXHUNTING

Rappahannock HostsThornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds“The Hill,” Boston, Virginia, September 25, 2011

By John J. Carle, II, Ex-MFH

Thornton Hill’s Sondra LeHew.

A Rappahannock Hunt “Woolie.”

Host Larry Levy.

Thornton Hill’s Suzy Reingold, ex-MFH (Plum Run Hounds).

Thornton Hill Jt. MFH Brett Jackson.

Thornton Hill’s Marner and Vienne Yates.

Rappahannock Huntsman Michael Brown.

Jim Massie, THH; Gus Edwards, MFH, Rappahannock.Rappahannock Jt. MFH

Oliver Brown.

Thornton Hill Jt. MFHJeff LeHew.


Not only do I advise Marion on how to run Horse Country, Imaintain her yard. You might think that removing lawn cuttingsand other debris, fetching sticks and such is the most importantpart of maintenance. Nope. It is keeping the property free ofsquatters. If I drop my tail down, let my eye stray from the ball,or fail to jump high enough for the Frisbee, the varmints willtake over the land. As we all know, once you allow squatters inthe yard, they think they own it. You see, my inherited abilitiesserve me well for the task for which I am charged. You all knowor have read that I am a mighty hunter. I mesmerize noisy squir-rels, stalk annoying birds, and flush intrusive rabbits fromcovert. I leap high in the air to snap bees and wasps. I peck anddance on my toes around slithering snakes. I bark away deerbent on eating our hosta. It’s my yard and I must protect it fromsquatters.

Ye forget, lassie, that I am a mighty hunter, too. But my form ofprotection is more selective and methodical; I chase the frogsfrom the garden lights and the pool.

Oh! Bunsen. You do not chase frogs. When the frogs see you coming, they just sitstill and you walk right by them.

’Tis nae true. I know the secret to frog-catching. Ye put your head up real close tothe wee squatter, open your mouth wide, and when they forget ye are there, theyfoolishly jump right into your gob!

Yuck! I hope you don’t chomp down on them. The thought is disgusting.

Nae, I just carry them gently to the fence and spit them out of the yard. Ye, my dear,expend excessive energy when ye chase a squirrel. Ye run all over the yard.Moreover, ye have that tight little banshee screech in the throat. Not only do I tirewatching, I can nae stand the sound. My way is more…well…educated.

Educated?

Aye. Why waste all that good energy ridding the yard of varmints? And I am cer-tainly not going to ruin the manly timbre of me fine Scottish pipes to screech aftera fleeing animal.

Oh, Bunsen. It is the thrill of the chase and knowing I am the master of the yard.You would not understand. See, Marion is reading on the porch. She will be sopleased with me when I get up a rabbit and show her how I take care of the place.You can show her how you save the pool from frogs.

Yessiree, I know there is a rabbit in the yard tonight. I can smell it. I’ll justsit under the Japanese maple and wait. Bunsen. Looky. There is one fat squatterover there. Iyeeee. Iyeeee. Yip, yip yip. I run like a mighty hunter after the rabbit.Off to the left, I am a mighty hunter; cut to the right, I am a mighty hunter; aroundthe tree, I am a mighty hunter; along the fence line; I am a mighty… I am on thesquatter. I have it in my mouth and I will just shake it silly.

“AHHH! Aga! No! No! No! Let me have it. Give it here.” Jean has justwalked into the yard and, surprisingly fast, grabs the quarry from my mouth. “Aga,what has gotten into you? Let the little thing go.” She takes the rabbit in her handsand walks across the yard to the tall grass field, drops it to the ground and walksto the house to say hello to Marion whose eyes never raised from the book.

The rabbit, stunned, walks a few steps. Then, realizing it is free, starts toscamper…right into Bunsen’s mouth.

Educated, lassie.

[Editor’s note: This is a true story and Jean saved the rabbit yet again.]

When Marion did not raise her head as I chased the squatter all around the yard, Iwondered what she was reading that had her so engrossed. Her mind was back inthe ’50s reading the new book about the American show jumper Snowman andHarry Deleyer titled The Eighty Dollar Horse by Elizabeth Letts. New books are

arriving daily and we are putting them on our e-commerce site,www.HorseCountryCarrot.com, as soon as they arrive. For allthe hunters in our group, a new coffee table book, Chicks withGuns, has arrived at the store. We also have The HeirloomTomato, another coffee table book. I do not eat tomatoes myself,but Bunsen does. All three books are enjoyable.

Marion has been opening cartons of fall, winter, and holidaygoodies. I’ve put in my order for a new Thermatex dog coat. Thecashmere sweaters, scarves, and gloves are in the store. Barbourhas begun shipping the fall/winter line of country clothing to us.Stop by and see the new gifts, holiday cards and ornaments,table accessories, and other delights we have ordered just foryou this year. Extra special this season are the two new doormatsand a rubber comfort pad we designed. Marion just approved thesamples. We sold out of the two mats we did a year ago.

And, of course, I’ll be working hard testing out the mats, givingthem my stamp of approval, ye might say.

As the cubbing season opened, we’ve enjoyed seeing everyone eager to put on hisor her new tweeds. On Facebook, I let everyone know there is an extra weekendin October; five Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays this month. Marion has ordereda special treat for guests at Horse Country those days. We are pouring Prosseco onSaturday and Monday, October 29 and 31. Enjoy the extra long weekend withBunsen and me. We both like a bit of bubble water.

Aye, lassie, it helps keep those splendid Highland pipes of mine in fine form. MayI suggest an extra glass or two for your wee self?

AGA’S SAGASMighty Hunter vs. Mighty Mouth

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Dick Francis’s Gamble by Felix Francis gets offwith a bang literally and sustains the reader withits lively pace and clever plot from start to finish.We started the book after dark one evening anddidn’t stop until we reached the final sentence of“Gamble” somewhere around 1:15-1:30 a.m. Wedevoured it: yes, it was that good.

Essentially, former jockey Nicholas Foxtonturns to the high-roller world of high finance aftera bad crash at Cheltenham crushes his atlas verte-brae into the axis. Even though he heals, expertsdecree that one good bash to the cranium or neckcould kill or paralyze him and British Jockey Clubofficials set him down for life to save his life, soto speak. After a second opinion upholds the BJCand scares him pretty badly, Nicholas does verywell, being one to give it all he’s got rather than riding a conservative finish. Hisnew life comes crashing down around his ears, however, when he witnesses themurder of fellow IFA (International Financial Advisor) Herb Novak at Aintree onGrand National day.

What ensues is a wild race as Nicholas tries to keep ahead of Herb’s assassin,who melts into the crowd, pocketing gun and silencer. Staying out of gunshotrange, however, proves to be a life-threatening challenge. The main plot of whyHerb becomes the target for a professional hit man finds itself tangled up in Herb’sprivate financial affairs when Nicholas learns he has been named executor of thedead man’s estate.

Why on earth does Herb have 20-plus credit cards? What sort of midnight oildid he burn visiting Internet gambling sites? What are those initials with moneyamounts carefully notated? What does Internet gambling have to do with a non-existent factory and housing funded by the European Union? Why does Nicholashave suspicions about Patrick Lyall and Gregory Black, the founders of the firmwhere he works, well, make that past tense, seeing how he has fallen out of favorafter being arrested for attempted murder…

Gamble is the first novel openly written by Felix all on his own since thegrand master of mystery passed away in February 2010. We are pleased to singthe praises of the son, who has come into his own with a distinct, yet very Francis-y branded stamp on the genre made famous by his late, great father.

We have always loved Dick’s protagonists and their first-person narrativesthat even today take you into their heads and into the thick of the action. Felixtakes his readers into Nicholas’s man-cave and, without any warning, turns itinside out. His live-in girl friend of six years, Claudia, an artist, makes lots ofphone calls to an unidentified number and disappears routinely for several hours,too often. Nicholas wonders if she’s found someone else even as he realizes howmuch he loves her. Finally being told that she has ovarian cancer. Nicholas holdsClaudia’s hand, literally and figuratively, even while he’s running for his own lifeas a very business-like killer stalks him.

Felix lays a great trail that keeps the reader engrossed, thereby concealing thegrand denouement about the bad guy behind the murder and attempted murders,100-million euro swindle of the European Union, and the threatening note foundin Herb’s overcoat. Of course, we didn’t stop to ponder and piece together clues:that would have reduced the wild ride that we enjoyed to the nth degree.

May Gamble thrill your mystery-loving spirit as sweetly as it did ours!We’re looking forward to the next solo effort by the legitimate (pun intend-

ed) heir of Dick Francis: may the master rest in peace when Mary and he aren’twhispering Muse-like inspirations in their son’s very worthy literary ear. We getthe impression that the master of mystery was grinning up there in elysian pasturesfrom the back of one of his favorite mounts, because his younger son Felix hadnot only picked up the baton, he had grown into a most worthy wordsmith, toboot.

Available at Horse Country, 800-882-4868 or www.horsecountrycarrot.com.Hardback, dust jacket, 352 pages. $26.95.

BOOK REVIEW

Dick Francis’s GambleBy Felix Francis

Reviewed by Lauren R. Giannini

540-987-9778268 Fletchers Mill, Woodville, VA

[email protected]

A premier riding facility in the scenicfoothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.Located in Rappahannock County,within hacking distance of theThornton Hill Hounds.

• Full Board/Field Board• Indoor & Outdoor Arenas• Endless Cross Country Trails• Clinics/Lessons• Training/Sales• Local Event Sponsor• An hour from 8 of Virginia’s finest fox hunts.


“Show me your horse and I will tell you who you are.”Old English saying

James River Correctional Facility, State Farm, Virginia.Barn No. 4 - Jason Ross smiles while he works, the gapbetween his front teeth visible when his lips roll back ina little laugh. Taking a soft body brush from the box onthe sawdust-covered stall floor, he swipes it with anexpert swish across Kippy’s copper coat. She shines likea new penny.

The mare stops shaking her head for a split-second– she’s annoyed to be inside the barn on a crisp fall day.For now she acquiesces to the pampering.

Ross swaps out the brush for a rag, gently rubbingher face and neatening the thick forelock over hercrooked white blaze.

Kippy stares off in the middle distance. Her herd-mates munch lush clover a hundred feet away, but shesighs at the pleasure of the good, old-fashioned strappingand appears to shrug, accepting the temporary confine-ment with good grace.

With a huge black hand, Ross gives Kippy a pat.“Good girl,” he coos. Big man. Bigger horse. Friends.She rubs her head on his orange shirt. “We’re goin’ outsoon, girl.” He pats her again and can’t help look at thetop of the pasture hill. There, outside the neat three-boardfence lining the mare’s paddock, razor wire and chainlink ring the perimeter of this most unusual horse farmnear Richmond.

It’s then you realize, Ross’s simple statement packsreal punch.

An inmate at the Virginia Department ofCorrections James River Facility for the past four years,Ross is about to be a free man. Jailed in 2007 for sellingnarcotics – pure, high-dollar cocaine to college kidsaround Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Ross has been insidefor 48 months and 10½ days.

Not that he’s counting.Like Kippy – formally Kippy’s Nancy – Ross is

part of the Second Chances program connecting prisoninmates and homeless retired racehorses. The innovative,symbiotic relationship stems from the ThoroughbredRetirement Foundation’s outreach linking volunteerismand the horse community with the relentless needs ofunwanted horses and society’s fringe.

A lot of it’s about physical bonding, officials say, asmuch as about emotional and spiritual growth. Some sto-ries of the inmates, human and equine, are heart-break-ing, others wrenching. All of them smack of harsh reali-ty.

What Happened – JasonEverybody except his mama calls him by his last name,Ross. His mom calls him Jason. Her baby boy. Her first-born. Ross says just about the most painful part about his2007 arrest was his mom’s disappointment when he toldher. Peddling coke carries a serious sentence in Virginia– five to 15. “I wasn’t usin’,” he said. “Well, smokin’ alittle. But ….” He stops. He’s learned not to make excus-es. “I got caught. I know what I did was wrong.”

Jason Ross is 6’3”, a little over 200, at 27 an impos-ing man with the physique of an athlete. What strikes

you, though, when you talk to him is the softness in hisvoice when he talks about what he’s learned through thehorse program, how earnest he is about his job in theSecond Chances stable. “I like workin’ here, with thehorses,” he said, snapping a rope to Kippy’s halter. “I’velearned a lot.” In many ways, he adds, he feels he’s “oneof the lucky ones” at the prison, working with horses andlearning a new way of handling life’s everyday dramas toset him up for his quickly approaching freedom. To getinto the program – and to stay in – inmates have to stayclean, with no bad marks for poor behavior, late roll callor fighting in the cells. “I like being here, at the barn,” hesaid. “I take it seriously.”

Ross put Kippy in the pasture and leans against thebarn wall to talk. His dark eyes soften as he recalls thechain of events that landed him at this human processingplant. Brought up on the mean streets of north Philly,Ross was a good student through high school, making hismom, an elementary school teacher, proud with class-work, and his father, absent but supportive, proud of hisability on the basketball court as defensive guard.

But it went downhill, Ross said, before he leftPhilly, getting worse when he moved to Blacksburg. Hehoped to get into college, taking courses at a local com-munity college in preparation, but he fell in with a badcrowd. Ross saw first-hand how easy it was to buy vialsof coke around the train tracks, carefully counting andweighing. Reselling was no problem. He found a readymarket around mainline Philly, a bigger one around the

college town in Virginia.Ross was on the wrong track.Until one midnight.Nailed for possession, to lessen his sentence, one of

Ross’s buyers ratted out the dealer. Ross thought he wasjust going to collect payment. He was surprised by adozen pistol barrels aimed at his right temple, armedMontgomery County, Virginia, officers who’d staked outthe darkened downtown property.

“Yeah, I was scared,” Ross recalled. “I knew it wasover. I’d done wrong and I got caught.”

Ross fast-forwarded through the judicial system,finding himself at the James River facility in centralVirginia, a low security but high-tech prison filled most-ly with drug dealers, tax thieves and DUI offenders.

For the first time since childhood, Ross’s routinewas regimented, punctuated by mandatory roll call andseven days a week of hard labor. Inmates work on thegrounds, in the kitchen cooking and preparing meals forsome 450 incarcerated at the correctional facility likeRoss did when he first arrived, to running the on-sitedairy that provides fresh milk for Virginia’s 50 prisons.

The prison, one of three in the neighborhood, is onthe Virginia Department of Corrections’ 4,051 primeacres on both sides of the James River west of Richmondin Goochland and Powhatan counties. Work programssuch as Second Chances allow prisoners to earn income– 45 cents an hour at the stable – to purchase hygiene andother commissary items.

Work opportunities teach inmates employableskills and help them gain a work ethic, something manyoffenders didn’t have before being incarcerated. Sometasks provide on-the-job training in skilled work areas,such as in the printing or furniture shops operated byVirginia Correctional Enterprises.

Others, like Second Chances or a dog training pro-gram for strays, benefit prisoners doubly, giving themreal-life skills for animal care when they’re out, and pro-viding an inimitable brand of “fuzz therapy” that TRF’sAnne Tucker feels is imperative to reclaiming a sense ofhumanity in an otherwise cold, cell-bound existence.

“My goal in this process is to build a better net-work,” she said. “For the horses, it has to start at thetrack, before a horse runs ‘one too many times.’ For themen, it has to start here, building better relationships,learning a better way of living. I think, through the hors-es, we can build a better life for everybody.”

THOROUGHBREDS“…. It is the horse that makes us human.”

Anonymous

Prison Inmates, Thoroughbred Horses Form Symbiotic BondThrough Second Chances Program

By Betsy Burke Parker

Panoramic view of the James River pastures where retired Thoroughbreds enjoy life on the farm. Betsy Burke Parker photo.

Inmate James Ross with “Kippy's Nancy.”Betsy Burke Parker photo.


What Happened – KippyBorn to regal lines, Kippy’s Nancy was born in Florida in1997. Stakes-placed winning sire Kipper Kelly fatheredrecord-holding sprinter Kelly Kip among others, andbreeder Jerry Brunelle had high hopes his tiny chestnutfoal would follow suit. Dam Queen Nancy, thoughunraced, carried the strong Damascus and Tom Foolblood.

Kippy – as the small filly came to be known – start-ed out at the top of the game, training and running inNew York and New Jersey. When soundly beaten at the$25,000 maiden claiming level, first at Aqueduct then atMonmouth Park, Kippy was dropped to $20k at theMeadowlands, then to $15k at Boston’s Suffolk Downs.The filly finally broke her maiden at the rock bottomlevel, $5,000 maiden claimers at Suffolk, making her24th start in 18 months.

What Kippy’s Nancy lacked in sprint speed shemade up for with durability, and for that, she was reward-ed with a grinding schedule. She earned a few placings –second at Monmouth, third at Rockingham – so she waspaying her way, sort of. But it was hell. Forty months, 60starts, four owners, three trainers, three wins and $28,000in earnings.

Tough.When slogging in ninth in her final start – beat 20

lengths in a six-furlong bottom claimer at Suffolk –Kippy’s connections finally gave up, but her perform-ance record hardly warranted sending her to the breedingshed. Not quiet enough to make a lead pony and notfancy enough to make a show horse, there were fewoptions.

Thoroughbred racing doesn’t have a SocialSecurity plan. Champions and stakes horses are fine —retirement to the breeding shed, perhaps, others findingtheir way through an active network of sporthorse pros tosecond careers in the show ring, polo field or eventingcircuit. But when a horse runs out of his conditions, ornever earns her keep in the first place, many owners areeager to shed the expense of caring for them, a burdenthat can last 20 years or more.

Few low-end racehorse owners have a back 40where retirees can live out their years, Tucker explained,and not every horse is suited to a sport career, especiallydirectly off the track. Most race trainers aren’t aware, ortapped into, the show network.

It was for this reason the Thoroughbred RetirementFoundation was created in 1982 to help house and, insome cases, rehabilitate, retrain and rehome retired race-horses. Second Chances started at the WallkillCorrectional Facility in upstate New York when theestate of philanthropist Paul Mellon, owner-breeder ofKentucky Derby winner Sea Hero and English Derbywinner Mill Reef, endowed the program $5 million in2000. James River opened their stable, built by inmatelabor in a redesigned dairy barn, in 2007.

For Kippy’s Nancy, it wasn’t a moment too soon.From Boston, she’d gone briefly to her last trainer’sfarm, resurfacing a year later at Virginia’s Montpelierestate, home to Virginia’s first TRF retirement herd. Shestayed there 2002-2007, but being relatively easy to han-dle, and sound, she was a prime candidate for retraining,and maybe rehoming, through Second Chances. She wasone of the first horses to arrive at James River in 2007.

“The horses are the best rehab I’ve seen. After amonth, the men are completely attached to the animals,”said Polly Bauhan, herd manager and TRF board mem-ber. “They learn problem-solving skills through the horsework. Real-life stuff.”

Horses, program farrier – and program graduate –Tamio Holmes said, “don’t give a damn” about thetough-guy image most inmates embrace. “I’ve been inprison a few times, but the horses are going to keep meout of here for good.”

The first horse he cared for, Covert Action, wonHolmes’ heart, the former inmate said. It was watchingthe farrier work on the horses that piqued his interest inthe program he initially scoffed. Holmes remembers the

day he traded a sneer for pure fascination of the art of theblacksmith. He watched, rapt, as a farrier hammered andshaped new shoes to put on a Second Chances horse.Holmes was hooked, signing up for the program that day.The horses “taught me that trust has to be earned throughpatience.”

Mutual BenefitWorking closely affects both man and beast, programorganizers say, with inmates visibly changing as theydevelop the non-judgmental relationships with the hors-es, well-known to every little girl with a pony but other-wise foreign to a hardened criminal. “You can see themchange, literally,” Tucker said.

The horses, for their part, bloom with turnout andthe more natural atmosphere of farm life as opposed tothe racetrack, many becoming easier to handle and,some, through the riding program, develop good gaitsand learn the basics of jumping so they’re readily adopt-able to sport homes.

Prisoners spend most mornings on routine farmchores and horse care – feeding, mucking, grooming,hotwalking after exercise (an exercise rider comes threedays a week to work the horses), holding for the farrierand vet, pitching hay, unloading feed. Normal stuff onany horse farm around the world.

Afternoons are spent in informal classes where theylearn from horse professionals and volunteer instructorswho teach everything from diet and physiology to evolu-tion of the species and routine medical treatments. “I justdid a section on horse nutrition,” Ross said, saying helearned about digestion of hard feed (in the foregut) andforage (in the hindgut.) “It makes a difference, the typeof food and how the horse processes it.” For just aminute, Ross could be any C-level pony clubber in a quizbee practice session instead of a hardened criminal doingtime. “You have to be careful not to overload theforegut,” he said sagely, picking up a flake of hay toshow the stemmy roughage he’s learned should be thebase of any horse diet.

Through Second Chances, inmates can qualify forthe well-regarded Groom Elite program offered throughthe Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association(HBPA). Groom Elite grads are in demand at racetracksand farms, Tucker said, certification well worth the timespent in class.

But the bigger benefit, she added, is far greater.“Having a horse rely on them for survival is the first timesome of them realize they’re not the center of the uni-verse.”

The program has solved much of the recidivismrate, though at 28 percent, Virginia’s is already far lowerthan the national average of 40 percent. “We want itlower, still,” Bauhan said.

According to TRF’s John Rainey, the rate for pro-gram grads is markedly lower, about 12 percent.

For his part, Ross knows he won’t be back in jail.“Oh, yeah, I’ll miss these guys,” Ross flapped his hand,motioning towards Tucker working in the barn office, toHolmes in the center aisle tacking on a shoe. “And espe-cially the horses.” He does not expect to stick with thehorse business, having already gotten a job through acousin with a moving company for when he gets out.“But I will definitely miss them.”

“No knowledge is wasted in my book,” Tuckersaid. “[These guys] may not stay with horses, but theylearn lessons about life while working here.”

Former TRF president Robin Traywick Williamssaid she has been deeply touched by the program’s suc-cess, from the very beginning. “It was mid-August of2007,” she recalled. “The first class of inmates had beenselected and the first horses were due to ship in aroundLabor Day. Suddenly, it occurred to me [most of] thesemen had never seen a horse, other than maybe a policehorse.

“So I rode an old mare of ours over to Barn 4 forthem to play with,” said Williams, whose farm is adja-cent to the facility. “At that point, I’d been working onthe project about 25 hours a day, and I was getting a lit-

tle grumpy. But I never will forget riding up to the barnand seeing those men, waiting out front like a kid wait-ing for Santa Claus. They swarmed all over that horse,laughing and asking questions, and all my grumpinessfell away.

“You know, I thought, we’re not just saving horses,we’re saving people, too.”

For more details on the James River program, logonto www.JamesRiverHorses.com.

Rider Jess Bowen takes retired TB She's Judge Garza, aka“Skittles,” through her paces in the ring. Every effort is made toretrain the horses for purposeful lives in new, caring homes.

Debby Thomas photo.

Showcase Presents James RiverProgram to Public

Approximately 200 people attended the Sept. 18Adopt-A-Thoroughbred Day at the James RiverChapter of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.A nonprofit organization providing lifetime care andadoption services for ex-racehorses, the program ishoused at the James River Work Center, a minimum-security prison in the Virginia Department ofCorrections system.

The free event featured exhibitions of the chap-ter’s 27 horses, all registered Thoroughbreds under thecare of the inmate handlers. Most are available foradoption, some are in various stages of re-training forsport homes. Among the attendees was Glenn Moody,the premier hunter course designer in Virginia.

Through the innovative Second Chances program,TRF fosters a unique partnership exchanging JRWCland use for an equine care vocational training programfor offenders.

“We’re opening our barn doors to the public thisone time during the year to give as many people as pos-sible a first-hand look at what these courageousThoroughbreds have to offer,” said TRF’s James Riverchapter board president Anne Tucker. “The day [gave]visitors an opportunity to learn more about our missionof rehabilitating horses and men through the national-ly-acclaimed Second Chances program.”

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is anonprofit organization founded in 1982 with the mis-sion of saving ex-racehorses from potential neglect,abuse, and exportation for slaughter. The TRF accom-plishes its mission by providing ex-racehorses withlifetime care through rescue, rehabilitation, retraining,retirement, fostering, and adoption services. The pro-gram has 22 facilities in 13 states throughout the U.S.housing more than 1,100 ex-racehorses, many of whomare up for adoption.

Eight prison facilities host Second Chances pro-grams for the oldest and largest charity devoted toequine rescue.

The Greener Pastures program through JamesRiver provides rehabilitation for Thoroughbreds andvocational training for inmate caretakers. Thirty-threemen have been certified in the Groom Elite trainingprogram for horse care and stable management.

– By Betsy Burke Parker


PUPPY SHOW

Sandanona Puppy ShowMillbrook, New York, July 17, 2011

By John J. Carle, II, ex-MFH • Pat Ike photos

The delightful coolspell that gave wel-come relief toR a p p a h a n n o c kCounty, Virginia, washappily ensconced inMillbrook, New Yorkas well, deliveringideal conditions forthe Sandanona HareHounds’ Puppy Show.First stop was the“old” kennel at“Thorndale,” whereBetsy Park, MB,MBH conducted atour of the Beagles’ and Bassets’ cool, spacious com-plex, where once were housed the Millbrook Harriersthat my father, Ned Carle, had imported from Englandfor the original Oakleigh Thorne. At other times A. H.Higginson and Joseph B. Thomas kept their hounds here– although Mr. Thomas was rather unflattering in hisopinion of this lodging, calling it “too damp.” I wasluckier than Mr. Thomas’s pack, for I stayed in one ofthe most fascinating houses imaginable, with hosts Judyand David Sloan. What imagination and skill can do toa 1960s rambler is nearly mind-boggling. ArchitecturalDigest should come calling!

The show was a delight, held at the kennel in theshade of a gnarled, veteran maple and caressed by a softbreeze. The happiest surprise was my co-judge, ParkerThorne, Joint Master of the Millbrook Foxhounds, whois, as well, a world-class wing-shot and rated polo play-er. And can she judge a hound! All the major shows willsoon know her name. We had a full slate, too, withBeagles from Sandanona and Old Chatham and Bassetsfrom Sandanona and New Jersey’s Tewksbury. Juniorsshow all the entries; and what an excellent job they alldid, ever smiling and with endless patience.

Sandanona gave notice immediately of things tocome, as they leapt to the head of the first class withtheir dapper Beagle doghound, “Bluegill,” shown withveteran aplomb by Tucker Giles. Sandanona thentook top honors in Basset Doghounds. Resplendent inher red-plaid sundress and flashing the winningest ofsmiles, Delaney Foss showed six-month-old “Banker”to his best advantage. Correct and a jaunty mover,Banker made his elders look awkward.

Lisabeth Kelly guided Old Chatham “Bluebell” tothe blue ribbon in a Beagle Bitch class that took somesharp looking. Thankfully, Parker has very sharpeyes…and a wit to match. Sandanona “Absinthe,”another very young hound, put the blue bauble in IanHogan’s hand and a grin on his face in Basset Bitches. Itwill be most interesting to watch “Absinthe” and“Banker” mature.

In the Beagle Championship no one was “singin’the blues” as young “Bluegill” and “Bluebell” floated’round the ring like butterflies born on the breeze. But“Bluegill” is truly exceptional, a “10” mover with love-

ly balance and achampion’s panache.He should light upthe Beagle ring atBryn Mawr for yearsto come. And“Banker” took theBasset tricolor over“Absinthe” in a closecall. He is a very freemover at this age,and hopefully he’llretain his grace withage. The GrandChampion of theShow was “Bluegill,”

with “Banker” proudly in Reserve.In the special class, “Veterans – Hounds of

Renown,” the ring was full of hounds with impeccablecredentials, both in the field and “on the flags.” HoundsI’ve been thrilled by afield and judged on the boardswere everywhere, so ’twas like a family reunion. After adelightful sorting-out, Parker and I put the still-exqui-site, ancient Beagle bitch, Sandanona “Promise,” justahead of Basset bitch Sandanona “Roulette.” These girlsshow almost as well as they hunt and are blessed withlovely dispositions. What a splendid way to end anyshow!

Delaney Foxx and Champion Basset Sandanona “Banker.”

Jack Tinker with Tewksbury “Newport.”

Veterans – Hounds of Renown ClassBasset Bitch, Sandanona “Roulette,” 2nd; Beagle Bitch, Sandanona “Promise,” 1st.

Colin Anderson and Wiley Sansberry from Old Chatham.

Judges Parker Thorne, MFH, Millbrook;Jake Carle, ex-MFH, Keswick.

Tucker Giles collects the Grand Champion ribbon for beagle,Sandanona “Bluegill,” as Reserve Champion “Banker” looks on.


On the evening of August 26, over 30 children and adultsarrived at the Old Dominion kennels. Greeting them wereGerald Keal, Huntsman; Ross Salter, 1st Whip; and ClarePalmer, the organizer of the evening’s event. Topics on theagenda included stable management, hunt etiquette, huntattire and managing kennels.

The presentation began at the stables, where the atten-dees met the six hunt horses. Clare talked about how shekeeps the horses fed and fit for the staff to do their jobs andabout “making” a new horse for this duty.

Models dressed in hunt attire – informal, formal, staff,and “what not to wear” – were asked to explain the reasonfor their clothes. No one realized exactly how many things astock tie could be used for; some were very inventive!

Hunt etiquette came next and questions and answerswere batted about, the most important being respect for thehounds and staff as they have a lot to do in a day’s hunting.Clare was a little flummoxed when asked what to do if ahorse bit a hound!

Moving on to the kennels, Gerald presented the doghounds and then the bitches, explaining why he hunts themseparately and about care and feeding. The children were letloose in the puppy yard and riot then ensued, puppies, chil-dren, and some adults having great fun. Refreshments wereserved to some very tired but happy children at the end of anentertaining and informative evening that was enjoyed byall.

PONY CLUB

Old Dominion Pony Club Visit and Talk at KennelsBy Clare Palmer • Karen Myers photos

Huntsman Gerald Keal.

Clare Palmer.

Connor Poe.

Ainsely Colgan and Sterling Colgan.

Clare Palmer and Ross Salter.

Casey Poe, Connor Poe, Colby Poe, Sam Barnes. Casey Poe, Lucy Arnold, Brighton Craig.Colby Poe.


Confessions of an AnglophileBy J. Harris Anderson, Managing Editor

I confess to being an Anglophile. I wouldn’t necessarilywant to live in the UK; Virginia works just fine for me.But there is a great allure to pronouncing “been” as“bean” rather than the inexplicably Americanized “bin.”I’d like to “go on holiday” instead of “take a vacation.”The latter conveys a sense of vacating from where youare, not necessarily a voluntary action (as in “take ahike”), while the former connotes a festive mood of mer-rymaking. My TV is set to record every episode ofMasterpiece Classics (although at times I find it hard tounderstand what’s being said – must be a glitch in theTV’s sound system).

I’ve owned a couple of British cars. This was many years ago, and the carswere already well-aged when I acquired them. Both were testaments to the oldjoke: Why do the British drink their beer warm? Because the same people whomake their cars make their refrigerators. (I’m told this has improved since I waslast stranded on the roadside looking jauntily dapper in a tweed jacket leaningagainst my broken down – for the umpteenth time – ’75 MG Midget.)

Eventually, I found a more practical approach to indulge myAnglophilia, onethat requires no maintenance and causes no frustration: lose the cars, keep thetweeds.

Fortunately, being heavily immersed in the horse world provides ampleopportunity to don a nicely tailored tweed jacket and enjoy the sensual pleasure ofits elegant cut, perfect fit, and exquisite feel. Cub hunting season is prime time fortweeds, of course. But the enjoyment is hardly limited to those two months out ofthe year. Some of the many other times one can go sporty in tweed include:

Driving to formal season meets.Tailgating in the field après hunt.Attending a breakfast at the host’s home or hunt’s clubhouse.Hunting on weekdays in formal season with clubs that allow midweekratcatcher.Hunting with farmer packs that allow ratcatcher any time.Attending the races, horse shows, and hound shows.Fundraisers, garden parties, or any other event that calls for elegantlycasual attire.

A lucky few can even wear their tweeds on workdays. Regrettably, the derigueur days of jacket and tie have been increasingly replaced with somethingcalled “business casual.” I interpret this to suggest replacing one’s dress shirt andtie with a turtleneck, which goes nicely with a tweed jacket.

Of course, there is tweed, and then there is tweed. The former may provide aslight air of the desired style, but on closer inspection the details fall lamentablyshort. The latter is the real deal, perfection incarnate. (Think Dick Van Dyke’slaughable attempt at a Cockney accent in Mary Poppins versus Richard Burton’sHamlet.)

Another fortunate aspect of living in Virginia rather than the UK is that I caneasily find tweed jackets of Burton-level quality as close as Warrenton, where theracks of Horse Country Saddlery are literally lined with hundreds of them. Ifthere’s a challenge to be had, it’s only that one can make a half day’s project outof sorting through the vast array of patterns, colors, fabric weights, and styles todetermine which jacket will become the latest addition to one’s cherished collec-tion. On the whole, though, that’s not a bad way to spend an afternoon, particu-larly considering the pleasant company and helpful staff.

Happily, one does not have to live within close proximity of Warrenton toenjoy a facsimile of this experience. All these splendid jackets can now be viewedand ordered through the Internet via Horse Country’s new online store,www.HorseCountryCarrot.com. The entire range of tweed jackets, for both ladiesand gentlemen, is available through this portal. Too bad the Internet wasn’t aroundduring my old MG days. It would have been a handy way to fulfill my constantneed for parts and repair manuals.

I admit the old sports car bug threatens to bite me again from time to time.I’ll see someone tooling by in a classic, impressively restored British motorcarand feel a twinge of nostalgia. But then, when I get home, I slip on a HorseCountry tweed hacking jacket, do up a bow tie, grab a matching tweed cap, clampa pipe between my teeth, and the motorcar desire goes away. Definitely better toforget the cars, keep the tweeds.

EDITORIAL

J. Harris Anderson iscurrently undergoing therapyfor his acute Anglophilia.Michael Johnson photo

Located on the historical site of the Kelly’s Ford CivilWar Battlefield as a part of a 500 acreestate, the Kelly’s Ford facility has all the amenities to train you and your horse!

• A 80’ x 140’ heated and lighted indoor arena, a 90’ x 150’ sand outdoor arena,two 150’ x 300’ grass competition arenas, and two 60’ round training pens

• Five levels of cross-country jumps - Introductory through Training Level• Extensive, picturesque, & groomed scenic trails• 12’ x 12’ box stalls with barred partitions for horse boarding• Use of clubhouse & swimming pool as a boarder• Certified Riding School with 25 horses for all equestrian disciplinesDue to the location along the Rappahannock River, you are also directly adjacent to the

4,500 acre Chester PhelpsWildlife Management Area, a Virginia treasure abundant with wildlifeand scenic trails.The Inn at Kelly’s Ford offers ten luxurious suites, a casual yet elegant restaurant for fine

dining, Pelham’s Pub for your favorite beverage and light fare, and two houses, each with apaddock and two-stall barns.Whatever your needs, KFEC will satisfy!

October 8, 2011 November 12, 2011 May 14, 2012VHSA/BHSA The Event at Kelly’s Ford Kelly’s Ford HorseTrialsHunter/Jumper USEA Recognized USEA Recognized

Open Horse Show Training, Novice, Training, Novice,Beg. Novice Beg. NoviceUn-Recognized Un-Recognized

Introductory Elementary Introductory Elementary

16589 Edwards Shop Rd., Remington,VA 22734 • (540) [email protected] • www.innatkellysford.com/equest.html


Jenny’s Picks

It’s calendar time again! We have our usualsupply of lovely offerings for the 2012 sea-son shown back and front atwww.horsecountrycarrot.com. Check themout! This year we opted to carry NormanFine’s Foxhunting Life rather than theMFHA’s calendar, which most memberswill order from them anyway. Norman’s isalready in stock, and it is a beauty, at$19.00. Of course we will also be carryingthe Foxes calendar, just one this year, at$13.99, plus many others. New this year isa boxed daily calendar featuring horses:What Horses Teach Us, at $13.99.

Felix Francis’s latest mystery, Gamble,has hit the shelves and is flying off themfast! Several staff members, myself includ-ed, were so caught up in the story that westayed up till the wee hours of the night tofinish it; we concur that Dick’s son is aworthy successor to the popular lateauthor. See Lauren Giannini’s book reviewelsewhere in this issue.

Lauren is also reviewing another hot sell-er: a new biography of Harry de Leyer andhis revered showjumper Snowman, thegray workhorse de Leyer rescued from aslaughter-bound truck at the New Hollandauction. It’s a heart-warming story that Iloved when I was a child, and I’m delight-ed the author has written a new biography:The Eighty-Dollar Champion.

For you Rita Mae Brown fans, take heart!She tells us the publishers have consentedto another in the Sister Jane Series. Moreon this when publication time nears.Meanwhile,Murder Unleashed is due outin October, so we should have it in stock bythe time you read this. A sequel to A Nosefor Justice, this one finds Mags and hergreat-aunt Jeep involved with a group ofsquatters living in an abandoned housingdevelopment – without electricity or water.The murder of a former banker in one ofthe houses starts the ball rolling. As isalways the case with Rita Mae’s animalseries, the two dogs also get involved in themultiplying murders. Hardcover, 288pp.$25.00

Marion found some different books at atrade fair that she thought our readersmight enjoy, either for themselves or asgifts. The following are for our adult read-ers:

Dickson, Paul. Toasts. If you’re everembarrassed by being asked to give ablessing or a toast and don’t know quitewhat to say, this book is for you: over 1,500toasts, sentiments, blessings and gracesawait your selection. Some are humorous,some noble, some cynical. There are even afew curses thrown in to boot. A little histo-ry is given with some. One example, a toastfor someone with whom you have quar-reled: “Here’s looking at you, though heav-en knows it’s an effort.” Hardcover, 243pp.$19.95

Goldman, Amy. The Heirloom Tomato.Once believed to be poisonous – the fruit isnot, though the plant is a member of the

nightshade family – the tomato has becomea favorite all over the world and has beendeveloped into hundreds of varieties.While commercial varieties have been bredto create uniform, attractive fruits that shipwell, they have often lost in taste what theygained in visual appeal. Heirloom tomatoesare enjoying a boom in popularity amongsmall growers. Within the covers of thisbook lie a host of colorful varieties whoseshades range from almost purple throughred, orange, yellow, and green, with sizesfrom the pea-sized “current” tomatoes tothe large “beefsteak” types, photographedby Victor Schrager with all the care givento a fashion model. After an overviewbreaking down the categories of tomato byshape and size, leaf and use, the authormoves on to a photo gallery of differentcultivars. Each is described fully withinformation on use, origin, even alternatenames. There follows a selection of recipesto entice you to use these fascinating fruits.A beautiful book for the kitchen or the cof-fee table! Hardcover, 260pp. $35.00

Kidder, David S., and Noah D.Oppenheim. The Intellectual Devotional.The religious have their daily devotionals;now here’s one for intellectuals. Theauthors have selected “365 daily lessonsfrom the seven fields of knowledge”: histo-ry, literature, visual arts, science, music,philosophy, and religion, each a page long.Fascinating reading! You may find it diffi-cult to stop at one page a day. Hardcover,377pp. $24.00

Kidder, David S., and Noah D.Oppenheim. The Intellectual Devotional –Biographies. This volume is devotedexclusively to biographies of 365 famouspeople you should really know about,divided into seven categories: leaders,philosophers, innovators, villains, authorsand artists, rebels and reformers, andpreachers and prophets. Like the original, itmay be difficult to put down, and you’llundoubtedly find names you’ve neverheard of before. Hardcover, 376pp. $24.00

Kidder, David S., and Noah D.Oppenheim. The Intellectual Devotional –American History. 365 daily readings aredivided into seven fields of knowledge:politics and leadership, war and peace,rights and reform, business, buildingAmerica, literature, and the arts. If youpaid any attention at all in your Americanhistory classes, you’ll recognize a goodlynumber of names, but there are still manythat didn’t get into the books I studied!Hardcover, 378pp. $24.00

Shaw, Hank. Hunt, Gather, Cook/Findingthe Forgotten Feast. Our ancestors werehunter/gatherers long before they began

raising crops and livestock and becomingsedentary. If you’d like to emulate themand don’t know where to start, Shaw’sbook is a great guide to learning to live offthe land. Fish, game animals, and plants areall featured, along with some recipes (any-one for “braised squirrel Aurora”?) Hegives explicit instructions on preparation ofanimals (gutting, scaling, etc.) and otherfoods such as dandelions and acorns. (Yes,you can eat acorns, with the right prepara-tion to remove the tannins.) Hardcover,324pp. $25.99

We have also found some new ones for veryyoung readers.

Lewin, Ted. Stable.Deep in NewYork Cityis one of the last remaining stables in themetropolis. Ted Lewin’s beautiful water-colors illustrate his portrait of KensingtonStables and the horses it houses, includinga series of head studies of each one, withdescriptions of what goes on every day:pony rides, lessons, carriage rides, andmore. Hardcover, $17.99

Markle, Sandra. Race the Wild Wind/AStory of the Sable Island Horses. Most ofus have heard of the wild ponies onAssateague Island in Virginia, known asChincoteague ponies, but there are otherislands that support small bands of wildhorses as well. This is the tale of a groupthat wound up on a crescent-shaped islandoff the coast of Nova Scotia: Sable Island.With colorful illustrations by LayneJohnson, Markle imagines how the horsesmight have arrived and what happenedwhen they came ashore. Hardcover, $17.99

McCully, Emily Arnold. Wonder Horse.Adults have enjoyed a recent biography ofthe amazing trick horse, Jim Key, “world’ssmartest horse.” Now we’re offering abook for the youngsters about Jim Key andhis master, the former slave “Doc” Key,and their climb to fame. Illustrations by theauthor. Hardcover, $16.99

This one is suitable for readers in the 8-10year old range.

Wedekind, Annie. Little Prince/The Storyof a Shetland Pony.A little palomino ponyfinds a sudden and unwelcome change inhis lifestyle from a posh high-rise inner-city stable to a backcountry farm that hasbecome home to a wide array of unwantedand unusual animals when his young mis-tress decides she wants a bigger pony toshow. He is befriended by a three-leggeddog, a camel, an emu, a reindeer, and awater buffalo, who help him adjust to lifeon the “Funny Farm,” as it’s called.Hardcover, $16.99

Lastly, here are a few instructive horsebooks for you adults.

Bertschinger, Linda. Alchemy/Transformyour Horse in Lightness. A few weeks agoa lady from the Shenandoah Valley cameinto our store to show me a book she hadproduced. The lovely color photographs ofa number of different breeds performing inhand, on the longe line, and under saddleprove that this trainer can adapt her dres-sage methods to a wide variety of horsesfor a wide variety of purposes. She haseven worked with world-class endurancerider Valerie Kanavy’s horses. It is not a“heavy” book in terms of substance; it ismore geared to the rider who has not had agreat deal of experience with dressage. Shefocuses on three exercises to improve light-ness and introduces us to a number of herhorses with an account of what problemsthey had. Hardcover, 64pp. $40.00

Blake, Henry. Thinking with Horses.Using numerous examples from manyyears of working with horses, the authorexplains how horses attempt to communi-cate with us by their actions, and how weshould read them. As with all case histo-ries, this makes for fascinating reading.Softcover, 199pp. $16.95

Beck-Broichsitter, Johannes. LateralWork. The author goes into great detail ononly one phase of Linda Bertschinger’straining: that of lateral work. Excellent dia-grams and color photos illustrate his points.This is the first book I’ve come across thatdeals solely with lateral work. One of theexcellent Cadmos series. Softcover, 128pp.$29.95

Bush, Karen. Curing Bad Habits.Many ofus have horses with a habit or two we’dlike to break. Among those covered hereare biting, kicking, bolting, mounting prob-lems, cribbing, weaving, pushiness, head-shyness, loading reluctance, jumping prob-lems, jigging, water crossing antipathy, andlots more. Softcover, 96pp. $22.99

Pratt-Phillips, Shannon. Your Horse’sWeight. I’m sure none of our readers woulddream of allowing the animals in their careto be malnourished, but sometimes theproblem of overweight horses can be over-looked, especially in the show ring, when alittle excess avoirdupois might be preferredby some judges. (Back in the ’60s this wasa serious problem with Arabians, forinstance, who were often shown just inhand and got minimal exercise.) Whetheryou’re trying to put weight on or take it off,the author gives you sound nutritionaladvice. Color and b&w photos. Softcover,109pp. $16.95

Van Damsen, Birgit; and Romo Schmidt.My Fat Horse! If your horse has a weightproblem, the authors have some solutions.Profusely illustrated with color photos, thisCadmos volume gives explicit illustrationsof how to check for excessive fat and whatto do to get it off. Softcover, 80pp. $19.95

HORSE COUNTRYBOOKSELLERS

Specialists in New, Old & Rare Books on Horses, Foxhunting,Eventing, Polo, Racing, Steeplechasing & Sporting Art

60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186 • 800-882-HUNT • 540-347-3141


Dudley Does It AllWinner of North American Field Hunter Championship

Adds Up for Numbers GameBy Betsy Burke Parker

Middleburg, Virginia – After her victory in the 2011 North American Field Hunter cham-pionship, Kathleen O’Keefe has three notches on the prestigious trophy.

After her victory in the 2011 North American Field Hunter championship, Susie Hartcounts three victories in the headline event.

How does it add up?Making something of a dream-team for the annual foxhunter competition, O’Keefe

rode Dudley, a gray three-quarter-bred owned by Hart and husband Pug, to claim thechampionship. “I am so excited right now,” said Hart after the historic victory, one handpatting Dudley’s neck, the other pressing her cell phone to her ear as she gave Pug Hart,at the Timonium yearling sales in Maryland where he was vetting horses for clients, aplay-by-play of the win. “This is his win as much as it ours. Dudley is that ‘once in a life-time’ horse.”

The week-long championship was run Sept 26 through Oct. 2 in northern Virginia’s“hunt country,” with competitors taking part in four days of hunting with recognizedpacks. Riding alongside mounted judges, contestants hunted with the Casanova Hunt,Blue Ridge, Middleburg, and Piedmont Fox Hounds. Mounted – and car-following – offi-cials conferred during and after each day’s meet, selecting a few finalists for the champi-onship, which took place October 2 at Glenwood Park, north of town. Fourteen horse andrider pairs took part in the final test, which began with a mock “hunt” around the openproperty for judges to get a final look at their favorites. A small crowd assembled in theopen viewing area, far fewer than usual due to record cold, blustery conditions and threat-ened rain.

“Field Master” Nelson Gunnell took the group on a 20-minute cross-country ride,after which the field gathered in front of the grandstand area to complete a final test.Riders were to gallop away from the group, jump a stack of telephone poles away fromthe crowd, do a hairpin turn to another solid big pole jump, then pull up to “drop a rail”on a show fence. They were then to trot that lowered fence, turn and jump a big coop infront of the crowd, and halt afterward.

Few of the finalists made any major mistake, giving judges Andi Gilman, BethdeStanley, Barbara Batterton, Chris Ambrose, and Ken Shreve a difficult job. “They wereall amazing,” Gilman said. “Hard to choose,” agreed Shreve.

Still, once the judges huddled to compare notes, they came up with Dudley as theclear winner.

“He was foot-perfect,” Gilman said, noting how the gelding was able to quietly holdhis position towards the front of the “field” no matter what pace the master set, both onregular hunting days and at the championship finals. “What an amazing horse.”

O’Keefe agreed. Winner in 1996 with Lord Hugh and in 2006 with Gol Lee, theBealeton-based professional described Dudley as “a great catch ride.” “He jumps like anovergrown pony,” Susie Hart said of the 17-hand, 9-year-old, three-quarter Thoroughbred,one-quarter Percheron. “I mean, you can’t imagine how rock solid this horse is.”

Originally bought as a young horse to make up as a “gentlemen’s hunter” for PugHart, an equine veterinarian who was once master of the Loudoun Hunt West, Dudley“instantly took to hunting,” Susie Hart recalled of the horse’s history in the hunt field. PugHart led the field regularly on Dudley, but two recent back surgeries and bilateral hipreplacements have kept him out of the saddle for a couple years.

“I hated to see Dudley just wasting away in the [turnout] field,” Susie Hart said.Winner in 2003 (with Bay) and ’04 (with Aladdin), Hart knew Dudley had what it takesto win the championship. “There was only one person in the world I wanted to rideDudley for this,” Hart said. “I knew Kathleen would give him the best chance to win.”

O’Keefe has had Dudley in training since the summer, working him back to fitnessafter months of inactivity. “I’m sure I’ll have to pry him away,” Hart said with a laughwhen asked if Dudley was going to return to her Loudoun County farm.

The reserve championship was awarded to Holly Muldoon (Orange County Hunt) onBeaux. “Best Turned Out” went to Roger Dickerson (Commonwealth Foxhounds) andMedicine Man. “Most Suitable” was given to Hands Down and Jennifer Nesbit (KeswickHunt), and the Sportsmanship Award was given to Jean Derrick (Belle Meade Hunt) whorode Dixie.

The championship began in 1984, brainchild of Virginia Fall Races board memberDot Smithwick, who died earlier this year, and Kitty Smith. They created the champi-onship as a way to showcase the nation’s top foxhunters – typically left out of show com-petition – as well as another way to support the race meet’s beneficiary, the LoudounHospital.

The championships are named for longtime Piedmont Fox Hounds Master TheoRandolph, whoseArmanative won the first championship. The event was not held in 2009“due to the economy,” officials said, explaining that a lack of early entries forced organ-izers to cancel the event rather than run it with few competitors. “It’s a real champi-onship,” Hart said. Though most riders come from the mid-Atlantic region’s hunt coun-try, the event is open to all foxhunters.

FIELD HUNTERS

Portraits a specialty

Janet Hitchen Photography(540) 837-9846

Email: [email protected]

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Jan Reutz Sportsmanship Award winnerJean Derrick, Belle Meade Hunt, on Dixie.

Reserve Champion Field Hunter Beaux,ridden by Holly Muldoon, Orange County Hunt.

Field Master Nelson Gunnell leading the field on Sienna.

Best Turned Out: Roger Dickerson, Commonwealth Foxhounds,and Medicine Man.

Judges: Barbara Batterton, Chris Ambrose, Beth deStanley,Andi Gilman, and Kenny Shreve.

Most SuitableHands Down and Jennifer Nesbit, Keswick Hunt.

Julie Gomena on Mr. Fater, Piedmont Hunt.

Field Hunter Champion Dudley, ridden by Kathleen O'Keefe, Casanova Hunt, andowned by Hart Farm.

The finalists.

FIELD HUNTERS

Theodora A. Randolph Field Hunter Championship of North AmericaGlenwood Park, Middleburg, Virginia • October 2, 2011 • Janet Hitchen photos


Middleburg Hunt, Glenwood Park, 9-26-11Huntsman Barry Magner with Whipper-in Josh Warren leaving Glenwood Park.

Middleburg Hunt, Glenwood Park, 9-26-11Jt. MFH Penny Denegre leading the field.

Middleburg Hunt, Glenwood Park, 9-26-11Julie Gomena, Piedmont Fox Hounds.

Casanova Hunt, Eastern View, 9-27-11Jt. MFH Joyce Fendley leading the field.

Casanova Hunt, Eastern View, 9-27-11Huntsman Tommy Lee Jones coming home.

Blue Ridge Hunt, Bartley, 9-29-11Shawna Stout, Piedmont Fox Hounds.

Blue Ridge Hunt, Bartley, 9-29-11Andi Gilman, judge.

Blue Ridge Hunt, Bartley, 9-29-11Huntsman Dennis Downing followed by Catherine Stimpson.

Piedmont Fox Hounds, Atoka, 9-30-11Huntsman Spencer Allen.

Piedmont Fox Hounds, Atoka, 9-30-11Jt. MFH Tad Zimmerman; Barbara Batterton, Judge;

Jt. MFH Gregg Ryan.

Piedmont Fox Hounds, Atoka, 9-30-11Wendi Wilson Gunnell, OCH and

Snickersville Hounds.

FOXHUNTINGThe contestants for the North American Field Hunter Championship

were selected from four host hunts to qualify for the finals.

Liz Callar photos

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Evans Yearlings Top $6.5 MillionThe Edward P. Evans/Spring Hill Farm dispersal ofyearlings concluded during the eleventh session of theKeeneland September Yearling Sale. The dispersalsold a total of 50 horses for $6,527,000, averaging$130,540 each.

Evans, who died of acute myeloid leukemia onNewYear’s Eve 2010, moved his Thoroughbred oper-ation to Virginia in 1969 and became one of the topowners and breeders in the nation.

The Evans’ estate’s horses will be sold in twoblocks. The 50 yearlings were sold at the KeenelandSeptember Yearling Sale and the broodmares, foals,and horses of racing age will be auctioned at theKeeneland November Breeding Stock Sale.

The star of the show of the Spring Hill yearlingconsignment came as no surprise – Hip #183 was afull brother to the brilliant performer Quality Road.The Elusive Quality colt, out of the Strawberry Road(AUS) mare Kobla fetched a final bid of $650,000from Rick Porter.

The colt’s dam, Kobla, is a full-sister to champion three-year-old filly Ajina. Thecolt’s brother, Quality Road, set track records when winning the Grade I Florida Derbyat three and the Grade I Donn Handicap at four, and also established a new courserecord when winning the Grade 2 Amsterdam Stakes at Saratoga while amassing earn-ing in excess of $2.2 million.

Quality Road won the M. Tyson Gilpin Virginia-bred Horse of the Year Award inboth 2009 and 2010.

The second highest price paid for an Evans-bred yearling was $500,000 whenEnglish bloodstock agent John Ferguson paid $500,000 for a half-brother to Grade 1winner and 2010 Virginia-bred champion Malibu Prayer.

Other high priced Spring Hill yearlings included:158 B.C. Lemon Drop Kid - Christmas Gift - $325,000, Brushwood Stable174 B.C. Indian Charlie - Gold Mover - $350,000, Shadwell Estate Company, Ltd.398 B.C. Medaglia d’Oro - Tap Dance - $470,000, Mike Ryan, Agent655 DB/BR.C. Lemon Drop Kid – Charitabledonation - $340,000, Ben Glass, Agent664 CH.C. Lemon Drop Kid - Christmas Card - $360,000, Robert S. Evans1143 GR/RO.C. Pulpit - Quiet Dance - $350,000, Besilu Stables1145 GR/RO.C. More Than Ready - Quiet Now - $325,000, Shadwell Estate Company,Ltd.

• • • •Audley Enjoys Another Successful Keeneland

Audley Farm in Berryville, Virginia, has consistently sold a quality group of Virginia-bred yearlings at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale and this year was no differ-ent. When the final hammer fell, Audley had sold eight yearlings for $925,000, aver-aging $115,625 each.

The Clark County nursery sold three six-figure horses led by Hip #862, a colt byIndian Charlie, out of the stakes winner Hatpin, who sold for $325,000 to ShadwellEstate Company, Ltd.

Other high priced Audley yearlings included:739 DB/BR.F. Dixie Union - Dundrummin’ - $140,000, Goldmark Farm, LLC/Todd Quast,Agent1801 GR/RO.F. Macho Uno - Elusive - $110,000, Michael Dubb & The Elkstone Group1840 CH.C. Scat Daddy - Gone Golfing - $85,000, Solis Bloodstock

• • • •Evans Named National Breeder of the Year Again

For the second consecutive year, the late Edward P. Evans has been honored as the2010 national breeder of the year by the Thoroughbred Breeders and OwnersAssociation.

Evans built a formidable Virginia breeding operation at the 2,700 acre Spring HillFarm.

In 2010 Evans raced four graded stakes-winning homebreds. Leading the packwas multiple Grade I winner Quality Road (Elusive Quality – Kobla, by StrawberryRoad), who won the Donn Handicap (Gr.I), Metropolitan Handicap (Gr.I), and theWoodward Stakes (Gr.I).

Evans’ other top runners included Grade I winner Malibu Prayer (Malibu Moon –Grand Prayer, by Grand Slam), and Grade II winners A Little Warm (Stormin Fever –Minidar, by Alydar) and Dixie City (Dixie Union – City Sister, by Carson City).

Virginia-Bred Quiet Giant Wins Graded StakesQuiet Giant, a homebred of the late Edward P. Evans,scored a dominant five-length victory in the $252,500 Hill’N’ Dale Molly Pitcher Stakes Gr.II at Monmouth Park.

Fresh off a sparkling 6¾-length tally in the Lady’sSecret Stakes at the New Jersey track, Quiet Giant ratedjust behind early pacesetter Debonair Darling before tak-ing charge under jockey Julien Leparoux. She drew awayfor her fifth career stakes victory and first in a gradedstakes.

The four-year-old Virginia-bred filly boasts strongfamily connections. A daughter of European Horse of theYear Giant’s Causeway, she is out of the Grade 2-placedstakes-winning Quiet American mare Quiet Dance and isa half-sister to 2005 Horse of the Year Saint Liam.

The victory increased her earnings to $405,389 with seven wins from 12 starts.• • • •

Virginia-Bred Deputy Fling Wins Monmouth StakeFollowing up his victory in the $50,000 Bert Allen at Colonial Downs, Deputy Flingfound room on the inside late and came bursting through to post a three-quarter lengthvictory, stopping the timer in 1:02 2/5 for 5½ furlongs over firm turf in the $65,000Gilded Time Stakes at Monmouth Park.

Deputy Fling came into the Gilded Time fresh off a 4½-length score in the BertAllen Stakes at Colonial Downs on the same day the 2010 Virginia-bred championswere honored. The gelding by Deputy Storm from the Woodman mare First Fling hasnow earned $96,732 for owner Magalen O. Bryant.

• • • •Lazy Lane Breeds Saratoga Graded Stakes Winner

For the second straight year Joe Allbritton’s Lazy Lane Farm has produced a gradedstakes winner at Saratoga – last year the Upperville nursery produced Position Limitwho won the $150,000 Adirondack Stakes Gr.II and this year homebred Hot Summercaptured the $102,000 Victory Ride Stakes Gr.III on the Travers Stakes undercard.

Hot Summer, by Malibu Moon out of stakes placed Summer Delight by QuietAmerican, passed six opponents in the final quarter-mile to gain the win.

The now multiple stakes winner completed six furlongs in 1:10.18 under CornelioVelasquez for her second graded stakes win of the year and cemented her credentialsas a contender for the Sentient Jet Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint Gr.I inNovember at Churchill Downs.

Hot Summer was sold by her breeder at the 2009 Keeneland September YearlingSale for $180,000. She is half-sister to stakes placed Southwest ($220,646).

The win pushed Hot Summer’s lifetime record to 7-4-0-2, $245,700.• • • •

Virginia-Bred Winchester Wins Grade 1 Sword DancerTwenty-four years after winning the Sword DancerInvitational at Belmont Park with Theatrical,Virginia owners and breeders Bert and DianaFirestone were back in the Saratoga winner’s circleafter Winchester won the Grade 1, $500,000 SwordDancer Invitational. Winchester’s sire Theatrical,who was also bred by the Firestones, also won thefamous turf stake at the upstate NewYork racetrack.

For the six-year-old Winchester, it was his sixthvictory from 23 career starts and his fourth Grade 1triumph. At three, Winchester won the Secretariat atArlington Park. Last year, he took the Manhattan and the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic, bothat Belmont Park.

• • • •Virginia-Bred Yearlings at the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Yearling Sale

Hip #12 - filly, by Afleet Alex, out of Noworriesforme, by El Corredor. Bred by LadyOlivia at North Cliff, LLC - $100,000 Ronald Nicholson.Hip #26 - filly by Malibu Moon, out of Real Candy by Real Quiet. Bred by HickoryTree Farm - $170,000, Robert V. LapentaHip # 159 - colt by Malibu Moon, out of Long N Lanky by Cozzene. Bred by HickoryTree Farm - $100,000 Marc Keller, Nicoma Agent.

Horses and People to WatchVirginia Thoroughbred Association

HORSE RACING

The Elusive Quality colt, out ofthe Strawberry Road (AUS) mareKobla, fetched a final bid of

$650,000.Keeneland photo

D. G. Van Clief, Don Robertson, Robert S. Evans, Dave and Erin Keely, Denis Byrne, MeredithPark, Chris Suttle, Racheal Swackhammer, Jeffrey Adams, Katie Lee, Shannon Aukema, KennyEdwards and Lisa Reynolds in the winner’s circle following Edward P. Evans’ induction into the

Virginia Equine Hall of Fame. VTA photo

Quiet Giant.Horsephotos.com

Winchester.NYRA photo


On May 31, 2011, fire claimed the lives of six event hors-es stabled in the barn rented by Boyd Martin from PhillipDutton at True Prospect Farm (PA). Three riders, LillianHeard, Caitlin Silliman, and Ryan Wood, who had beenasleep in the barn’s upstairs apartment, managed to get outthree horses, but heavy black smoke and lung-searing heatforced them outside. Firefighters kept them from trying togo back in for more horses.

Suffering from smoke inhalation and shock, the triowould be treated and released later from nearbyJennersville Hospital. Meanwhile, they stood around feel-ing helpless and horrified. Heard had to deal with the vividmemory of standing outside her mare’s stall, unable to doanything for her horse, because the stall door had meltedshut, thereby sealing Ariel’s fate. The riders weren’t alonefor long: word of the barn fire spread throughout the ruralcommunity of West Grove and into Unionville andKennett Square. Friends and strangers alike came to offerhelp, but there was little comfort that May night: horseswere trapped and the blaze continued unchecked.

When Dutton arrived, he braved the conflagrationand managed to bring out one more horse. It wasSilliman’s mare, Catch A Star, with severe burns all overher neck, back and hindquarters. Shortly thereafter, Martinarrived on the scene and engaged in what he termed “a bitof an altercation with the firefighters” before disappearingwith Dutton around the barn.

Dutton and Martin, both Australians who becameAmericans, are strong and fit athletes. At any given horsetrials, they have been known to compete as many as ninehorses from Novice to Advanced. For this reason alone,they can be considered the ironmen of three-day eventing.That fateful night, they had only one thought – save thehorses – and they knew that their lives were at stake, butnot even that possibility could stop them. Horses weretrapped and, fire or no fire, they felt compelled to go backin.

Parts of the barn were impassable, but even blindedby smoke they were familiar with the layout. Spurred onby adrenaline pumping to levels beyond anything they hadever experienced in competition, Martin and Dutton man-aged to muscle one more horse out of the inferno: NevilleBardos, an Australian Thoroughbred, had started hiseventing career with Martin’s wife Silva and developedinto a four-star horse who would partner with Martin at the2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games.

They tried to make another attempt, but there was nohope for the horses still inside as the fire raged out of con-trol. It took firefighters more than two hours to control theblaze and, except for walls constructed of stone, the barnburned to the ground. The event horses who perishedwere: Ariel, Call Me Ollie, Charla, Phantom Pursuit,Cagney Herself, and Summer Breeze, owned either per-sonally or in syndicate, and profoundly irreplaceable. Thesurviving horses – Neville, Otis Barbotiere, Catch A Star,Ambassador’s Rose, and Minotaure du Passoir – weretaken to the University of Pennsylvania’s New BoltonVeterinary Center, fortunately only minutes away. Nevillehad sustained the worst injuries from his extended expo-sure to smoke and flames: even with the best ICU care, thevets couldn’t offer any hope that he would live.

Before we get into the miraculous story of NevilleBardos – after all, Thoroughbred enthusiasts will tell youthere is nothing quite like the heart of a good ’un, whatev-er the job description, sport, or discipline – let’s hark backto what eventing is all about and why the tragic events ofthe summer of 2011 that rocked True Prospect Farm’seventing microcosm should make all Americans veryproud to be represented internationally by our elite ridersand horses.

The Roots of Modern Three-Day EventingThe equestrian triathlon of dressage, endurance (cross-country) and show jumping, known today as three-dayeventing, began as a competition called “The Military.”The warhorses used in the Cavalry had to be able torespond to signals from their riders while they engaged theenemy with saber, sword and gun on the battlefield. Withthe disbanding of the Cavalry, “The Military” opened tocivilian riders, male and female, who competed on anequal playing field, thanks to the horses. CombinedTraining or three-day eventing, dressage, and show jump-ing are the only equestrian competitions at the Olympics.

Traditionally, Thoroughbreds off the track have beena primary source of eventing horsepower, but the sport ofthree-day changed dramatically in 2004 for the AthensOlympics. The FEI (International Equestrian Federation)opted to adopt a CIC format, meaning just the cross-coun-try. The CCI (Concours Complet Internationale) formatfor Speed and Endurance day included four phases: Roads& Tracks (A & C) which covered about 15 miles,Steeplechase (B), and the cross-country jumping test (D).

A combination of factors resulted in this change: thecost of putting on an international three-day event (wildlyexpensive) and enough open land for Speed & Endurance(at a premium in most world venues). Plus, manyEuropean teams relied on warmbloods or crosses, whichweren’t bred for the speeds required. The Short Formatwas born, relegating the Classic Format to nostalgic three-day organizers who continue to keep it alive at thePreliminary and Training levels.

A period of adaptation and experimentation followed.Oddly enough, the warmbloods and various heavier, slow-er breeds favored by western Europeans began showingmore Thoroughbred blood. The Australians and NewZealanders based in the US and Europe discovered theirhomebred Thoroughbreds are highly prized by other rid-ers. The horses that came up from down under and itsenvirons tended to be tough hardy specimens, like the rid-ers who imported them. In fact, the horses had the samerangy scope as the Thoroughbreds that competed so suc-cessfully during the ’70s and ’80s.

As for the riders, they’re cut from the same bolt ofcloth as anyone who served in the Cavalry. Male orfemale, they all had to navigate daunting and solid cross-country jumps while galloping at about 24 miles per hour.If you’ve never walked a cross-country course in person,you can get a good idea of what the eventing at the inter-national level entails by going to youtube.com and search-ing for Rolex or Burghley or Badminton cross-country.

After watching a few clips, you might conclude thatthe riders are highly trained and skilled equestrians whoare very brave and perhaps slightly crazy.EventingNation.com uses this catchy phrase to describethe cross-country: “red on the right, white on the left,insanity in the middle.” But the bravery required to gallopover natural terrain jumping solid and humongous fencescan’t be denied – not now in the modern manifestation ofeventing and certainly not in its evolution from Cavalryand war steeds as “The Military.” It takes real guts to facethe challenge of being that good a rider, and many mightfeel the call, but most won’t last the distance.

What Goes Round, Comes RoundIn the devastating aftermath of the fire at True Prospect,good things did emerge, much like the silver lining ofevery cloud, but at great cost. The horse communityopened its hearts and wallets to help out the people wholost literally everything: eventing enthusiasts and folkswho might not know a corner from a chevron skinny orelephant trap but who cared enough to open their heartsand their wallets.

The horse community rallied after the fire at True Prospect, butACE wanted to do more than settle the claim and donated

$10,000 in memory of the fallen horses to the USET Foundationwhose Development Committee co-chair Bruce Duchossoismatched it: (l-r) Boyd Martin, Kirk James (COO Hub

International), Bob Courtemanche (Div. President ACE GroupPrivate Risk Services), Duchossois, Philip and Evie Dutton.

Lauren Giannini photo

Rolex 2008 winners: Phillip Dutton and Connaught, owned byBruce Duchossois, and his step-daughter Leelee Jones.

Lauren R. Giannini photo

EVENTING

Uncommon Valor and Thoroughbred HeartBy Lauren R. Giannini

Caitlin Silliman and Catch A Star in 2010; rescued by PhillipDutton from the barn fire and badly burned, after treatment atNew Bolton, the mare has been nursed back to health by her

devoted owner/rider.Photo by Elisabeth Harpham

Ryan Wood jumped in the PRO Bareback Puissance at PlantationFields on Sept 19 for the benefit of Operation Homeland. FYI:that wall is close to 6-feet, and no, Ryan didn’t win, but he sure

tried. Photo by Elisabeth Harpham


Fundraisers sprouted here, there, and everywhere to help.Martin’s business lost about $100,000 in tack and equip-ment and he had the added burden of veterinary bills forthe horses injured in the fire. Heard, Silliman, and Woodlost clothes, personal items, everything they kept in thebarn’s apartment.

The community rallied in many ways: from farriersdonating shoeing to suppliers sending feed or hay topledges from horsemen, businesses, equestrian clubs andassociations for money, various merchandise, and servic-es.

The support provided some relief to the emotionaltraumas of that fateful night at the end of the MemorialDay Weekend.

In all the reports, however, little was said about thebravery exhibited by Dutton and Martin in their last-ditcheffort: the horses were their lives – they had to try. In spiteof having grooms and farm help, both horsemen werehands on with their equine charges. They knew their hors-es inside out and upside down. They lost animals thatwere like members of their own families, children withfour legs and a tail, genus equus. Dutton brought in griefcounselors, because everyone at True Prospect felt shat-tered.

Boyd and Silva Martin were dealing with their owngrief and that of their three children, as well as that oftheir owners, riders, students, and their help. In JulyMartin’s father was hit by a truck during a bicycle raceand died shortly after his son flew home. Then Silva losther father. Dutton bid fond adieu to Woodburn, one of histop four-star horses, who was euthanized. Heard hadwatched her mare succumb to the heat and flames.Silliman’s mare would recover, thanks to her diligenceand attentive care tending the burns. The experience pro-foundly impacted on Wood, who had no horses in thebarn, but cared for them as if they were his own.

Phillip and Evie Dutton, according to Heard, werelike the mom and dad of the whole True Prospect com-munity. They had their hands full. Training and compet-ing as professionals at the top of the game might be abusiness, but where horses are involved, there is lots ofemotional investment. The tragedy touched everyoneassociated with True Prospect Farm. The Martins and theDuttons had to put on a game face, but they were bleed-ing inside. Several of the horses who perished were con-tenders for a berth on the 2011 Pan American Gameseventing team. The others were just starting their careersand only time would tell how well they would do.

Bruce Duchossois became a three-day horse ownertotally by chance. He competes in the Amateur OwnerHunters and happened to have a barn for rent at his farmin Aiken when the Australian three-day team needed aplace to train and acclimate their horses for the 1996Atlanta Olympics. They leased his farm for two years.

“Phillip Dutton liked it so much, he came back,”recalled Duchossois. “I didn’t know the man well, only byreputation, and he said, ‘why don’t you get involved?’ Sixmonths later he said, ‘I’ve found a horse you might like.’”

The rest as they say is history. Duchossois has ownedseveral top horses campaigned by Dutton, includingConnaught. He’s quite hooked on the sport, especiallyafter watching Dutton pilot his horse to the Pan Am teamgold and individual silver in 2007 and then win the 2008Rolex Three-Day. They have been partners in the owner-ship of True Prospect Farm for about five years, whichmeant that Duchossois was involved, especially when theinsurer of the property settled the claim.

That turned out to be one of the most astounding “sil-ver linings” involved: ACE Private Risk Services, thehigh-net worth personal lines company of global insur-ance carrier, settled the claim quickly and gracefully. Infact, they were so moved by the story of the tragedy atTrue Prospect, they talked about doing something quiteunprecedented in the insurance world: they wanted tohonor the horses lost in the blaze by making a donation intheir memory to the USET Foundation. Duchossois, atrustee of the USET Foundation and co-chair of theDevelopment Committee, which raises funds for our eliteequestrian programs, heard about ACE’s plan and offered

to match whatever amount they gave.It turned into a $20,000 memorial, all told, in honor

of the fallen horses.“I think that whatACE Private Risk Services is doing

is phenomenal,” said Duchossois. “Insurance – you can’tlive with it, you can’t live without it – and what theseACE people have done is really above and beyond. It wasa beautiful old stone barn, and the horses – well, theywere priceless. To settle the way they did and then tocome back and make a donation to the USET Foundationin the memory of the horse – well, it’s unheard of. It openseyes that they are good people and that they want to giveback. I was blown away.”

Bravery Beyond The Call of DutyBob Courtemanche, Division President of ACE PrivateRisk Services, and W. Kirk James, Chief OperatingOfficer of Hub International (the broker that matched upACE with True Prospect), visited the farm on August 16.Courtemanche presented the check for the USETFoundation to Duchossois, with the Duttons and Martin inattendance. ACE’s donation to the USET Foundation doesmuch more than honor the six fallen event horses. It paystribute to the sport of “The Military” and the incrediblebravery of the people who risked their lives to save thefive.

“We protect property, but at the end of the day, weprotect people,” said Courtemanche. “If we can help tomake a sad situation better by honoring the bravery andcompassion of the people at True Prospect Farm, that’spart of our job. It’s not just property they lost in that fire.They lost horses, and they aren’t replaceable the waymachines are. I’m learning about partnership betweenhorse and rider.”

ACE and HUB International, along with the entireeventing world got to witness a miracle when NevilleBardos confounded the veterinary experts at New Bolton.He wasn’t supposed to survive, let alone compete again.Perhaps it’s the partnership with Martin who willed thehorse to live or Thoroughbred heart, albeit one bred inAustralia. He was tough, but he couldn’t earn his oats asa racehorse. One of Martin’s friends tried him as ajumper: that didn’t work out either. Martin, who enjoys achallenge, offered $850 for the horse.

In 2002 Silva Martin started eventing Neville, but ittook a few years and her husband to bring out the horse’supper level qualities. In 2006 Neville won the MelbourneCup CCI** and was imported to the US early in 2007where he placed well in two three-stars, Jersey Fresh andFair Hill International. The following year he finished 8that Rolex in his first four-star debut and was short-listedfor the Beijing Olympics. They won Fair Hill CCI*** in2009 and last year finished fourth at Rolex CCI**** andmade the team for the Alltech World Equestrian Gameswhere they were 10th, highest placed of the Americans.

So, Neville’s miraculous recovery added yet anoth-er silver lining, and Martin said, “Neville’s breaking allthe laws and defying all the odds. Initially he was fightingfor his life and then a couple days later it looked like he’dsurvive. Then a couple weeks later, it looked like wecould ride him again, and now we’re just taking it day byday, but it looks as if he’s about to take on the world’stoughest four-star at Burghley in England. It’s excitingand emotional at the same time with all the terribletragedies that I’ve gone through. It’s the one thing that’skept me going.”

That was shortly after Neville and Martin placedfourth in a very competitive Advanced field at theMillbrook (NY) Horse Trials where Martin rode anotherof his four-star horses, Remington XXV, to second place.In fact, the “ironman” placed with nine horses all told,four at the Advanced level. Martin and Nev made theirdebut at Burghley over Labor Day Weekend, finishingseventh to the delight of everyone who had been follow-ing their story and cheering for their uncommon valor.

Support Our TeamNeville Bardos and Boyd Martin are just one good exam-ple of the people and equines who represent the US ininternational competition governed by the Federation

Equestre International (FEI). The United StatesEquestrian Team Foundation assumed the role offundraiser after the 2003 birth of the US EquestrianFederation (USEF) as the national governing body. TheUSET Foundation started in 1950 as the USET, the inde-pendent entity that selected, trained, equipped, mountedand financed our teams in show jumping, dressage, andeventing.

Nowadays, the USET Foundation raises 60 percentof all the funding that supports our international teams.It’s easy to get involved and donate on any level, becauseevery little bit helps. Next time you see that familiaracronym, USET, think about what it means to help riderslike Boyd Martin and Phillip Dutton, who risked theirlives to save a failed racehorse from Down Under whomade good in eventing. You can designate how yourdonation is dispersed by the USEF by discipline. ACE, ofcourse, limited its donation to eventing in the memory ofthose six fallen horses.

“It’s important that everyone be involved, for every-one to be able to participate at whatever level they can,”said Duchossois. “It is the United States EquestrianTeam.”

The bravery shown at True Prospect, the heart of aThoroughbred who defied the odds to compete again, theriders who dedicate their lives to making the team and dis-playing the red, white and blue on their red team jacketsare all very good reasons for theAmerican people to showtheir national pride.

For more information about contributing, pleasevisit: www.uset.org

Lillian Heard and Share Option, her three-star horse, who wasrecuperating from an injury at a friend’s farm when Lill lost Ariel

in the barn fire. Photo by Mike McNally

Boyd Martin and Neville Bardos during the jog, the mandatory vetinspection, at the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games: on May31 Boyd risked his life to bring this horse out of a burning barn,helped by fellow former Australian Phillip Dutton - both repre-

senting the USA at home and internationally.Lauren R. Giannini photo


ACROSS THE POND

Having spent the summer photographing aseemingly endless assortment of white or light-colored hounds, it came as a pleasant change tovisit the North Shropshire Hunt Puppy Show,where the pack comprises mostly black and tanOld English Foxhounds. The venue was at theirtemporary kennels at Haston Farm, to the northof Shrewsbury, but I was reliably informed thatthe brand new, purpose-built kennels would beready well before the opening meet. The sunwas shining as the five Joint Masters, PipHarney, Phil Jones, Tullis Matsen, Will Warner,andAndyWheals, welcomed their guests, and alarge crowd had gathered by 4:30 when thejudges, Otis Perry, MFH South Shropshire, andDavid Seels, who hunts the North StaffordshireHounds, entered the show ring. This year therewere three couple of young doghounds and fivecouple of bitches from the five litters bred byfour different stallion hounds, including two byBelvoir “Ranger” ’05 and one by Sir WatkinWilliams-Wynn’s “Parker” ’08. Now in his 27thseason as huntsman, Martin Jarrett had hisyoung entry well training and in fine condition,which always helps the judges. In thedoghounds, first place went to “Doric,” byBelvoir “Ranger” ’05 x Sir W. W. Wynn’s“Doubtful” ’08, while in the bitches, top spotwas taken by “Rascal” (by “Ranger” x “Pocket”’07), and it was she who took theChampionship. In an exciting extra class, whichbrought much impromptu advice and applause,the best looking couple were the sisters“Grammar” and “Graceful,” to the delight ofClare Churchill, who managed to control herhappy puppies in the ring. Then we all tookafternoon tea as the sun set.

My final major hound show of the 2011season came onAugust 11, and as I left home at5:30 to drive the 183 miles to Rydal, in the LakeDistrict of northwest England, it was dark,chilly and wet. When I pulled into the show-ground three hours later, the rain had almoststopped, but low clouds were preventing us

from seeing the Fells (hills) in all their majesticglory, although hundreds of hardy foxhunterswere making their annual pilgrimage to Rydalfor the year’s biggest show of Fell Foxhounds.

Proceedings began as usual, with the localpack, the Coniston’s puppy show, with allhounds being shown by their walkers. This yearthe judge was new Eskdale and EnnerdaleHuntsman George Wilkinson, and no less than55 Fell Foxhounds came under his scrutiny.Eventually, the Coniston Champion wasannounced as the Entered Bitch “Rival,”walked by Alan Cummings, and to prove herclass, later in the day she became overallChampion Bitch. Then the Open classes began,with Charles Frampton, MFH Portman, andChris Ogilvie, a former Coniston huntsman,now living in Scotland, doing the judging. Theprestigious Group of Five Hounds, the DogCouples, and the Bitch Couples were all won bythe Ullswater, whose Huntsman since 1996,John Harrison, formerly hunted the Toronto andNorth York Hounds in Canada. The youngdoghounds class was won by Barry Todhunterwith Blencathra “Rebel”; the Entered Dogswent to Ullswater “Stormer,” and the youngbitches to their “Chorus,” with the senior ladiesclass won by Coniston “Rival.” In an excitingFell Hound Championship, the tricolor went toUllswater “Stormer,” to the delight of JohnHarrison and Joint Master Ron Barry, a formertop professional steeplechase jockey.

Rydal Hound Show, August 11, 2011Judging Foxhounds between the rain squalls.

Rydal Hound ShowChampion Beagle, Newcastle & District “Wisdom.”

North Shropshire Hunt Puppy Show, August 6, 2011Couple of Young Hounds being shown by their excited walkers.

An Old English Puppy Show, Rydal Fell HoundShow, and a Hunt Open Day

By Jim Meads

North Shropshire Hunt Puppy ShowChampion Young Hound, “Rascal” (by Belvoir “Ranger”).

North Shropshire Hunt Puppy ShowThe five Joint Masters:

Pip Harney, Andy Wheals, Phil Jones, Will Warner, Tullis Matson.

North Shropshire Hunt Puppy ShowHuntsman since 1985, Martin Jarrett, showing the Young Bitches to the JudgesOtis Ferry, MFH (South Shropshire) and David Seels (North Staffordshire).


A good show of Harriers was judged by LydiaHarvey, whose late husband Tony was a Master of theEaston Harriers, 1963-68 and 1971-90. Proving justhow good the overall quality of the Harriers was atRydal, no fewer than four different packs won a class.In the Unentered Dogs, it was Holcombe “Charger” incharge; in the older dogs it was Pendle Forest“Lifeboy”; in the young bitches High Peak “Argue”took the prize; and in the Entered Bitches PendleForest “Destiny” was unbeatable. The much sought-after Group of Four was won by the Dunston, while inthe Championship, the all-white Pendle Forest“Destiny” took the tricolor, although being small, butperfectly formed.

There were huge classes in the Beagle show,which kept the judges Patrick Comber, ex-MHWarwicks, and Jeff Hall, ex-professional Huntsman tothe Ampleforth, busy, even continuing during theheavy rain squalls throughout the day. The Newcastledominated affairs, taking three classes, with theDerby, Notts & Scaffs winning the Unentered Bitches,and the Group of Four, to the delight of Joint Masterand Owner of the pack since 1981, Gerald de Ville. Inthe Championship, Newcastle “Wisdom,” the EnteredBitch, took the title, with her kennel mate “Glazier”being Reserve, and it was Joint Master since 1983Rupert Gibson who received the Dalesman SilverTrophy. The Breed Champions were then judged tofind the Supreme Champion of 2011, and this went toPendle Forest Harrier “Destiny,” thus bringing hugesmiles to the faces of Master since 1977 MichaelBannister and his professional Huntsman RichardLloyd, now in his 23rd season with this North Yorkpack.

In 1955, I first photographed Fred Hart, when hewas 2nd whipper-in at the Belvoir Hunt. Over the next24 years, he served with various fox hunts and theDevon and Somerset Staghounds until moving to theTanatside in 1979, where he remained for the rest ofhis career as Kennel-Huntsman, Huntsman, or JointMaster. Sadly, Fred died on August 29, and onSeptember 8, Guilsfield Church was full to overflow-ing with hunting friends for his moving memorialservice, where North Shropshire Huntsman MartinJarrett blew “Gone Away,” bringing tears to manyeyes. Quite by chance, two days later, his hunt, theTanatside, held an Open Day, as they hadn’t been ableto have a puppy show this summer. A big crowdattended and were greeted by the Joint Masters MargeTeague and Sarah Hodgetts, and a glass of wine! Fifthseason Huntsman Richard Evans was soon in action,showing first the young entry and their walkers, andthen all 35 couple of working hounds, making a col-orful scene in the ring. Then we all adjourned to theHuntsman’s house for a splendid evening, with a bar-beque, drinks, and wonderful company, and with thehunting season just beginning.

Rydal Hound ShowChampion group of four Harriers were the Dunston with

“Chocolate” “Happy” Champions” and “Dorset.,” shown byHuntsman Michael Karyan.

Rydal Hound ShowChampion group of four Beagles Derby, Notts and Staffs “Factor”“Charity” “Tinder” “Digit” shown by Huntsman Richard Archer,

(center is Gerald De Ville, M.H., who owns the pack.)

Rydal Hound ShowChampion Foxhound Ullswater “Stormer” with

Huntsman John Harrison and Joint Master Ron Barry.

Rydal Hound ShowChampion group of 5 foxhounds were the Ullswater,

shown by Huntsman John Harrison.

Rydal Hound ShowBest Unentered Dog Foxhound Blencathra “Rebel” with

Huntsman Barry Todhunter.

Rydal Hound ShowGrand Champion Pendle Forest Harrier “Destiny,” with Master(since 1977) Michael Bannister, Huntsman Richard Lloyd, ShowChairman Claire Logan-Stephens, and Steward Nick Mowbray.

Joint Master and Huntsman Fred Hart died August 29, 2011 after30 years with the Tanatside Hunt.

Tanatside Hunt Open Day, September 10, 2011Huntsman Richard Evans showing the Young Doghounds to the

spectators.

Rydal Hound ShowMrs. Lydia Harvey presenting the Beagle Champion silver salverto Newcastle & District Master (since 1983) Rupert Gibson.


Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-Point9-10-11

When the Thornton Hill Hounds and Fort Valley Huntscombined earlier this year, the base of support for thepoint-to-point was widened, and a nice crowd was onhand September 10 at Thornton Hill Farm nearSperryville. Recent rains from hurricane Irene set up thecourse perfectly for a great day of steeplechase racing.The emerald green grass, bright white snow fences andthe Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, left firsttime visitors in awe.

Rider Paddy Young had the type of day that youonly dream of, and his brilliance matched the beauty ofthe venue. Young had five mounts on the card and rodeinto the winners’ circle following each of his rides. Hehad a hat trick over hurdles, winning three races, andadded two more wins on the flat.

The maiden hurdle race was run in memory ofDorothy Smithwick, and 10 remained after scratchesnecessitating a split. This was music to Paddy Young’sears as he had been asked to ride two of the entries. Inthe first division he was aboard Randleston Farm’sAutumn Riches for trainer Jimmy Day. After racingwithin striking distance the first time around, AutumnRiches went to the front for the second circuit. MagalenO. Bryant’s Enchanted Circle (Chris Read) made a runat the winner at the top of the stretch, but Young let outa notch and won handily by 1½ lengths. Alicia Murphy’sOn The Corner (Jacob Roberts) was third.

In the second division Young put DominickFalini’s Black Bag on the lead at the drop of the flag, andthe result was never seriously in doubt. Magalen O.Bryant’s Winning Vow (Chris Read) was up for secondplace but was 4½ lengths back at the finish. BruceSmart’s Bonded (Willie McCarthy) followed in thirdplace. Black Bag is a family affair as he belongs toYoung’s father-in-law and is trained by his wife.

The open hurdle race attracted a good six horsefield, but at the finish it was a one horse race, and guesswhat, Paddy Young was up on the winner, DebraKachel’s Class Mark. In the race Class Mark assumedcommand the second time around, responded whenFogcutter launched a rally approaching the last fenceand steadily pulled away in the stretch to romp by fifteenlengths. Bruce Smart’s NewMambo (Robert Walsh) wassecond and Fogcutter (Jeff Murphy) held on for third.

Leslie Young put Paddy up on her Philology in thesix furlong maiden flat race, and the result was a ninelength score over Bruce Smart’s Hidden Melody (JeffMurphy) with Debra Kachel’s Embezzle (JacobRoberts) third. In the race Philology moved to the leadwith less than a half mile to run and won as much thebest.

Finally in the six furlong open flat race the otherriders had a chance as Paddy was without a mount. Thisrace scratched down to two starters, and SimonHobson’s Forest Bell (Eilidh Grant) was the short pricedfavorite based on two wins on the flat and one over hur-dles on the Spring point-to-point circuit. Tom Hulfish’sWhat AWarrior (Jeff Murphy) provided the competitionbut was no match for the winner, who led all the way andwidened to win by 12 lengths. Forest Bell is a Virginiabred and if all goes well should be heard from again inthe Old Dominion Turf series.

This past Summer Ricky Hendriks claimedDjokovic for $20,000 from a winning effort on the flatat Delaware Park. He was making his first start “in thecountry” in the 1¼ mile open flat race, and the manner

in which he won under Paddy Young left everyone veryimpressed. When asked he moved to the lead withslightly more than three furlongs to run and won as hisrider pleased by eight lengths. Betsy Mead’s ForgottenMan (Jeff Murphy) ran well but was no match for thewinner, and Debra Kachel’s other entry, Secret Style(Mark Watts) finished third.

Racing action switched to the mountainous timbercourse for 2½ mile maiden and open races. Both of theseraces were highly competitive as the fields ran as agroup most of the way. In the maiden timber race IrvinS. Naylor’s Elusive Prince (Roddy Mackenzie) made amove to join Sur La Tete on the front end approachingthe second fence from home. Elusive Prince had the leadover the last fence and held Sur La Tete safe through thestretch to win by a length and a half. Kathy McKennawas the winning trainer.

The open timber race was won in front runningfashion. MarkWatts sent Manown Kisor, Jr.’s Gather No

Moss to the lead atonce and controlledthe pace from the frontwhile the remainder ofthe five-horse fieldwas not far behind.Jeff Murphy made arun at the leader withMagalen O. Bryant’sG’day G’day in thestretch but Gather NoMoss held on and wonby a head. G’dayG’Day was second,and Sara Collette’sGenghis (RoddyMackenzie) was third.The winner wastrained by MikeBerryman.

Blue Ridge Fall Races 9-17-2011The Blue Ridge Fall Races has been a tremendous suc-cess story for its ability to raise money for its benefici-aries. Since the inception of the race five years ago, theFriday night calcutta and race day activities have raisedsignificant funds for local charities. This year’s fifth run-ning of the race meet at Woodley Farm near Berryvillewas run to benefit the Youth Development Center, Inc.,and once again the generosity of the community wasoutstanding. One local owner made a significant pledgeat the calcutta that hinged on the outcome of his horsesat the races. When Michael A. Smith’s Humdinger wonthe open hurdle race, the money was on its way to thebank.

RACING

Virginia Fall RacingBy Will O’Keefe • Douglas Lees photos

Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-PointMaiden Hurdle Race, 2nd Division

Black Bag – 1st, Paddy Young up, Winning Vow – 2nd.

Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-Point Open HurdleClass Mark – 1st, Paddy Young up, Fogcutter.

Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-Point Open FlatDjokovic (leading) - 1st, Paddy Young up, Madame Envy - 9th,

Triton Light - 8th, #7 Hey Doctor - 5th.

Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-Point Maiden FlatPhilology – 1st, Paddy Young up.

Thornton Hill Fort Valley HoundsPoint-to-Point Open Timber

Gather No Moss – 1st, Mark Wattsup, G’Day G’Day – 2nd.

Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds Point-to-PointMaiden Timber

Elusive Prince – 1st, Roddy Mackenzie up, Manhattan Box – 3rd,Honour Emblem – 4th, Sur La Tete - 2nd.


Humdinger has been money in the bank for years winning nine races over hur-dles and two VSA championships for leading trainer Neil Morris. In this race ChrisRead was content to keep Humdinger in third while Julia Theriot’s Triton Light (JeffMurphy) and Kick On Stable’s The Editor (Willie McCarthy) set the pace. The five-horse field was tightly bunched when the field turned for home but Humdingeremerged from the inside to take over the lead shortly after the last fence. He beat BruceSmart’s fast closing Bonded (Paddy Young) by a head at the finish but was not hardridden saving something for future engagements.

Al Griffin’s Aero had won three races this spring with the latest being under rulesat Willowdale, and these past performances earned him the favorite’s role at BlueRidge in the three horse open timber race. In the race Paddy Young took the lead withVicky Bower’s Wazee Moto with Sara Collette’s Genghis (Roddy Mackenzie) a closethird. They ran in this order until the field turned for home. At this stage Jeff Murphylet out a notch on Aero, and he quickly took command. He led over the last fence andcontinued to draw away in the stretch to win by 3½ lengths over Wazee Moto withGenghis tiring to third. Doug Fout trained the winner, whose next start will certainlybe a timber feature under rules.

Neil Morris got his second win on the card with Kinross Farm’s Sur La Tete. Aformer hurdle champion, Sur La Tete had been retired but came out of retirement thisspring to pursue a new career over timber. He has been gaining confidence with eachstart and put all the pieces together at Blue Ridge to break his maiden with JacobRoberts up. Sur La Tete was allowed to settle off the pace and moved towards the lead-ers the last time around. He took the lead with six furlongs to run and was never underpressure winning by 4½ lengths over his stablemate, I Hear Banjos (Chris Read), whowas second best with Northfield Farm LLC’s Expel (Liam McVicar) third.

The maiden hurdle race attracted 19 entries; and when only three horsesscratched, the race was split. In the first division Bonita Farm’s Imperial Gin withapprentice rider Kristin Fischer saved ground while remaining in contact with the lead-ers. Imperial Gin went to the front on the final turn, was joined by Magalen O. Bryant’sQuiet Flaine (Jeff Murphy) at the last fence and proved best in the run in. Quiet Flainejust missed by 1¼ lengths, and Mary Fleming Finlay’s Ditch (Roddy Mackenzie) tookthird place. John W. Boniface, Jr. trained the winner.

In the second division of the maiden hurdle race, Three Roses Stable’s GhostTracker finished first for trainer Danielle Hodsdon and jockey Roddy Mackenzie.Ghost Tracker was never far back, took the lead the second time around and opened aclear advantage. Kinross Farm’s Its A School Night (Chris Read) came charging in thestretch and just missed by a neck. Michael A. Smith’s Bundestag (Paddy Young) wasthird.

Doug Fout had his second win on the card when Magalen O. Bryant’s Southwestran away and hid from the six other starters in the open flat race. Under Carl RafterSouthwest stole the start and steadily improved his position to gallop home all aloneby 18 lengths. Mike Dalton and Bonita Farm’s Isabel Harp (Kristin Fischer) andCynthia Polk’s Roguish (Liam McVicar) finished second and third but were never athreat to the winner.

In the maiden flat race Silverton Hill LLC’s three-year-old Darkwatch appearedto have the race won when he put Joan Lewis’ Tribal Shelter (Liam McVicar) away onthe turn for home. Another three-year-old, Embezzle seemed a beaten horse, but JacobRoberts asked for another gear when they turned for home. He was gaining with everystride and got up to win by a head. Tribal Shelter took home third money. RickyHendriks trained the winner, and rider Jacob Roberts notched his second win.

Junior and senior field masters chases opened the card with Linden Ryan servingas field master. In the junior race Erin Swope won the large pony division on Jordan,and Natalie Harpole got City Diplomat home first in the horse division. The seniorfield masters chase went to Chris Harting and her Summer Witch.

Colonial Downs 9-18-2011There isn’t a day of racing in America quite like the races at Colonial Downs onSunday, September 18. Add a training flat race and a steeplechase race to a full cardof standardbred races, and you have a one of a kind day.

The training flat race at the classic distance of 1¼ miles on the turf ran as an exhi-bition race without wagering. It’s probably just as well that there wasn’t bettingbecause Kinross Farm’s multiple stakes winning Researcher would have been bet offthe board. If that entry wasn’t enough, trainer Neil Morris also entered Kinross’ SaintDynaformer, whose flat form would have probably made him the favorite if not forResearcher’s presence.

In the early going Chris Read rated Researcher slightly off the pace. When Readasked him to quicken approaching the last turn, Researcher sprinted away to a 10-length advantage. Jacob Roberts had Saint Dynaformer in overdrive in the stretch, butResearcher was on cruise control and held off his stablemate to win by ½ length.Researcher has been running in stakes company on the flat this year and has beenfourth twice, but this was his first win since winning a $1,000,000 race at CharlesTown inApril, 2010. Kinross Farm purchased Researcher from Rutledge Farm prior tothat effort and is hoping that lightning will strike again. Their last purchase fromRutledge was multiple hurdle stakes winner Sur La Tete, who was the leading moneyearner in 2004. Researcher is due to debut over hurdles at the Virginia Fall Races.

The next race was a hurdle race for horses entered to be claimed for $15,000

down to $10,000. This race also had a prohibitive favorite as Debra E. Kachel’s LakePlacid was entered for $10,000 and had leading rider Paddy Young in the irons. TrainerRicky Hendriks claimed Lake Placid at the Middleburg Spring Races for $10,000 andproceeded to win back his purchase price and more with victories at the Virginia GoldCup Races and at Parx Racing (formerly Philadelphia Park). After finishing far backin the novice hurdle stakes race at Belmont in June, Lake Placid was put on the shelfand this was his first start since. With money in the bank, Hendriks had a license tosteal and he did. Lake Placid not only increased his earnings by $9,000 but wasclaimed by J. W. Delozier, III for leading owner Irvin Naylor.

In this race Paddy Young went to the front at the first fence and shared the leadwith Karen Gray’s Cuse. When Cuse gave way the second time around, Lake Placidwas alone on the front end and coasted home first by 13½ lengths. He paid $4.40 fora $2.00 wager, which was very generous considering his superiority. If races won isthe criterion for claimer of the year, Lake Placid has a firm grip on that title. If it’smoney won, he and NewYork Turf Writers stakes winner Mabou should have an inter-esting fall. Stay tuned.

Foxfield Fall Races 9-25-2011The racing action at the Foxfield Race Course near Charlottesville on September 25included three maiden hurdle races and two races on the flat. One of the maiden raceswas restricted to fillies and mares, and Tuatha De Danann Stable’s Red Dirt Girl puton quite a performance in her third career start. She debuted with a third place finishin July at the open house meet in Saratoga and tried stakes company in her next startfinishing a credible fifth. This form made her one of the favorites at Foxfield, butdirectly in her path was William Pape’s Beating the Odds (Brian Crowley), who hadrun second while beating Red Dirt Girl at Saratoga. In the race on Sunday, Beating theOdds assumed pace setting duties with Red Dirt Girl in a stalking position. With onemore time to go around Red Dirt Girl assumed control; and when Beating the Oddswas pulled up, Red Dirt Girl romped home alone under Robbie Walsh for trainerRichard Valentine. Jonathan Sheppard’s Cubist finished second but was no match forthe winner, who won handily by 10¼ lengths. Mar Jim Farms LLC’s Smart Hokie(Bernie Dalton) was a well-beaten third.

In the maiden hurdle race Jeff Murphy put LazenbyBanksMadden Stable’s Hueof Crimson in a perfect spot from the start. Positioned within striking distance whilesaving ground on the inside, Hue of Crimson took the lead with three fences to go. Asthe 12-horse field raced to the last fence Hue of Crimson had the lead but at least halfthe field was in contention. The cavalry charge fell short, and Hue of Crimson won by1½ lengths. Jonathan Sheppard’s Sergeant Karakorum (Brian Crowley) was secondand Randleston Farm’sAutumn Riches (PaddyYoung) was a close up third. Doug Fouttrained the winner.

In the maiden claiming hurdle race leading rider Paddy Young rode Dale K.Thiel’s Sir Dynamite to perfection. Sir Dynamite was never worse than second whilesetting the pace with John Grigg’s first time starter, Scammed (Bernie Dalton). Withthree furlongs to run Scammed retired, but Magalen O. Bryant’s Winning Vow took upthe chase. Young had saved enough horse while setting the pace, and Sir Dynamite wasnot hard pressed to hold off Winning Vow (Chris Read) by 1¼ lengths. Michael Leaf’sDurer (Jacob Roberts) finished third. Ricky Hendriks saddled the winner, and PaddyYoung widened his commanding lead in the riders’ standings.

The training flat race attracted a congested 14 horse field. Bernie Dalton gotJubilee Stables’Argentine bred Wantan away with the leaders and settled him in thirdplace in the early going. With three furlongs to run, he took a share of the lead andclaimed sole possession of the lead entering the stretch. He coasted home to win by 2½lengths with Hudson River Farm’s Arcadius (Brian Crowley) second and JaneGunnell’s Maestro Magic (Mark Watts) third. Ted Thompson was the winning trainer.

The popular Virginia-bred flat race attracted last year’s champion, Forest Bell.Flashing his usual speed, he went to the lead under Eilidh Grant and won as his riderpleased by five lengths. Forest Bell has won four flat races since winning the OldDominion Championship at Great Meadow last fall, and owner/trainer Simon Hobsonhas him honed to repeat. The second and third place finishers were an entry trained byLilith Boucher. Mede Cahaba Stable’s Class Indian (Bernie Dalton) and RichardSander’s Opening Movement (Richard Boucher) dueled to the finish with Class Indianproving best.

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011Unseasonably cool weather and some late afternoon rain put a bit of a dampener on thefestivities at the Saturday card of the Virginia Fall Races, but the racing action wasimpressive. The co-featured Dorothy Fred Smithwick Memorial and the NationalSporting Library Chronicle Cup brought high classed hurdle and timber horses toGlenwood Park to contest these two stakes races.

Run in memory of “Dot” Smithwick, who passed away in June, the hurdle stakewas restricted to horses that had not won an open stake. Eight starters were understarter Graham Alcock’s orders; and when he dropped the flag Ross Geraghty sentIrvin S. Naylor’s Black Jack Blues to the front. Black Jack Blues had recently beenimported from England where he had won eight of 19 starts with earnings in excess of$40,000. It was difficult for handicappers to figure where he would fit against a provenfield that included last year’s three-year-old champion, Mrs. George L. Ohrstom, Jr.’sDemonstrative. Continued


At the finish the Irish bred Black Jack Blues provedthat trainer Joseph W. Delozier, III had found a perfectplace for his United States debut. He led throughout therace and was not hard pressed to hold off Demonstrative(Robbie Walsh) and Mrs. Calvin Houghland’sNationbuilder (Danielle Hodsdon), who rallied to finishsecond and third but were never a threat to the winner.Demonstrative proved that he is clearly the best four-year-old in training, but was no match for his older foe. BlackJack Blues joined Tax Ruling and Decoy Daddy (Ire) as2011 hurdle stakes winners for the country’s leading owner,who has traditionally been best known for his timber top-pers.

The National Sporting Library Chronicle Cup hasalways been a valuable prep for Virginia’s top fall timberrace, the International Gold Cup at Great Meadow. Inrecent years this race has become a destination in itself witha rich $35,000 purse to accompany a great tradition. TrainerDoug Fout, who is also Clerk of the Course, enteredMagalen O. Bryant’s G’day G’day and Al Griffin, Jr.’sAero to face last year’s winner EMO Stable’s He’s AConniver and three others. In this race Jeff Murphy settledAero in a good spot off the early pace set by Anna Stable’sMusic To My Ears (Robbie Walsh). The last time down thebackside of the course, Murphy asked Aero to quicken hispace. With two fences remaining he had moved to secondbehind He’s A Conniver (Bernie Dalton). These two racedas a team to the last where He’s AConniver made a mistakeand took out a rail. Aero took advantage, assumed com-mand and won easily by six lengths. He’s AConniver fadedto third as Paddy Young rallied G’day G’day for second.This was a great effort for Aero, who broke his timbermaiden at Willowdale in May. The first five finishers allhave Virginia connections, and we will all stay tuned forthe rematch at Great Meadow.

The other timber race on the card was for maidens,and this race resulted in the closest finish of the day. IrvinS. Naylor’s Elusive Prince (Roddy Mackenzie) raced offthe pace but rallied to jump the last fence with JalinStables’ Monstaleur (Joey Elliott) and Kiplin Hall’s I’m AHokie (Ross Geraghty). I’mAHokie faded, but Monstaleurand Elusive Prince dueled through the stretch and arrived atthe finish as a team withElusive Prince winning bya short head. KinrossFarm’s Sur La Tete (ChrisRead) finished third. KathyMcKenna was the winningtrainer.

The first race on thecard was won by AugustinStables’ Rainiero who wasridden by Matt McCarronand was trained by RichardValentine. Rainiero was farback in the early stages butstarted moving towards theleaders as they raced down

the backside the last time. He was going best of all in thefinal quarter mile and took the lead at the head of the stretchto win in hand by three lengths. Magalen O. Bryant’s AirMaggy (Brain Crowley) was second and Randy Rouse’sOne Sea was third.

The maiden claiming hurdle race was a one horseshow. Paddy Young put Debra E. Kachel’s Black Bag ontop at the start, and he steadily improved his position win-ning by a whopping 37 lengths while not being rushed.Trainer Ricky Hendriks continues to hold a hot hand espe-cially with horses owned by Mrs. Kachel. Kinross Farm’sFu San (Chris Read) and Teddy Mulligan’s Ardagh (LiamMc Vicar) trailed in second and third.

The two flat races proved that there is more than oneway to win a race. In the Virginia bred training race CelticVenture Stable’s Rockmani (Willie McCarthy) led from thestart, repulsed a challenge from Karen Eyles’ Petite Lafleur(Liam McVicar) with a half mile to run and won easily by5¾ lengths. Petite Lafleur finished second and David M.Dobson’s Lord Fox (Paddy Young) was third. In the ama-teur/apprentice rider training flat race Keri Brion rodeTimber Bay Farm’s History Boy from off the pace to wingoing away in the stretch by 8½ lengths over Hickory TreeStables’ Double Doors (Jessica Gillam), with VickyBower’s Wazee Moto (Eilidh Grant) third. CharlesMcCann and Jonathan Sheppard were the respective win-ning trainers.

Virginia Fall Races 10-2-2011The Virginia Fall Races is the only two-day meet in thesport, and there are races for every type of horse be it overhurdles, timber, or on the flat. The Saturday card had theheadliners, but the Sunday card offered opportunities formany horses to compete. There were three maiden racesover hurdles and one on the flat, a filly and mare trainingflat race, and an amateur rider timber race.

Augustin Stables and trainer Richard Valentineopened and closed the weekend with winners. TheirChilean bred Rainiero won the opening race on theSaturday card and their Irish bred Radio Flyer won the lastrace of the marathon weekend. Darren Nagle was up onRadio Flyer, who set most of the pace with only a briefearly challenge from Scanden Stable’s Mr Tack (KristinFischer). When Mr Tack dropped back, Radio Flyer openeda clear lead; and even though Irvin Naylor’s Fieldview(Mark Beecher) closed some ground in the late stages, hewas never a threat. The final margin was two lengths but itwas done handily. Fieldview was second and Mr Tack wasthird.

Eight fillies and mares went to the start for a seven-furlong sprint. Michael Harris sent Mariah’s Promise, whowon this race a year ago, to the front; but Kristin Fischerhad Fox Ridge Farm’s Upper Gulch well within strikingdistance. With three furlongs to run, Upper Gulch was gain-ing with every stride and moved to the lead in the finalquarter mile and proved best by two lengths over Irvin S.Naylor’s Lonesome Nun (Xavier Aixpuru) withGordonsdale’s Deep Run (Carl Rafter) third. Mariah’sPromise was fourth. Upper Gulch is trained by Tom Voss.

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011Maiden Hurdle Race

Black Bag – 1st, Paddy Young up

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011National Sporting Library Chronicle Cup Timber StakesAero – 1st, Jeff Murphy up, He’s A Conniver - 3rd.

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011Presentation of National Sporting Library Chronicle CupBeth Fout; Mrs. George L. “Jacqueline ”Ohrstrom, Jr.; Dr.Alfred C. Griffin, Jr., owner of Aero; Gray Carr Bridgers;

Doug Fout, Aero’s trainer; Jeff Murphy, rider.

The Dorothy Fred Smithwick Memorial Stakes RaceBlack Jack Blues – 1st, Ross Geraghty up.

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011The Dorothy Fred Smithwick Memorial Stakes Race Presentation, a celebration of Mrs. Smithwick’s life: Ross Geraghty, rider;

Joseph Delozier, trainer (with hand on trophy).

Virginia Fall Races 10-1-2011Maiden Timber: Elusive Prince -1st; Kathy McKenna, Trainer;

Roddy Mackenzie, up.


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Five three-year-old maidens made their firststarts over hurdles in the first race. Last year’s winner,Mrs. George L. Ohrstrom’s Demonstrative, went on tobe the three-year-old champion, so watch these horsesin the next month. Lilith Boucher has always had agood way with three-year-olds, and once again shehad this year’s version, Mede Cahaba Stable’s ClassBrahms ready at first asking. Richard Boucher sentClass Brahms, to the lead with Paddy Young andSilverton Hill LLC’s Darkwatch close behind. Formost of the race Darkwatch out jumped Class Brahmsbut on the flat Class Brahms was clearly superior.Darkwatch had the lead with three furlongs to run, butClass Brahms regained the lead on the turn for homeand pulled way to beat Darkwatch by 1¾ lengths. Mrs.George L. Ohrstrom, Jr.’s Gawaarib (Robbie Walsh)was third.

In the maiden hurdle race another duel on thefront end developed. Stonelea Stables LLC’s Bigshot(Carl Rafter) was never far back and hooked up withIrvin S. Naylor’s Almarmooq (Xavier Aizpuru) thelast time around. Very little separated these two at thelast fence, but Bigshot pulled away from Almarmooqat the head of the stretch. Matt McCarron ralliedAugustin Stables’ Ice Bear in the last quarter, but itwas too little too late as Bigshot beat Ice Bear by 3¼lengths with Almamooq holding on for third. JulieGomena was the winning trainer.

The next race was for maiden hurdlers who areowned and trained in Virginia. This race attracted itsbest field in this race‘s brief history as nine horseswere entered and seven started. Kinross Farm’s Its ASchool Night looked hopelessly beaten the first timearound, and he was still last down the backside thefinal time around. He had moved to third at the last

fence but still had a lot of ground to make up. JacobRoberts asked Its A School Night for a winning move,and that’s what he got. He passed Randy Rouse’sHishi Soar (Roddy Mackenzie) in mid stretch and wonby 1¼ lengths going away. Hishi Soar was second,and Magalen O. Bryant’s Dakota Slew (RobbieWalsh) was third. VSA leading trainer Neil Morrisadded another win to his impressive 2011 total.

In the maiden flat race Brian Crowley on RoyalRossi saved ground while racing in the middle of the12-horse field. He started to gain ground on the back-side and moved to the outside for racing room whenthe field raced into the final furlongs. He took the leadin the stretch and was narrowly best by ½ length overBushwood Stables LLC’s Share Out (RoddyMackenzie). Leslie Young’s Philology (Paddy young)was a close up third. Hall of Fame trainer JonathanSheppard saddled the winner.

Virginia Fall Races 10-2-2011Maiden Flat, turning for home

Royal Rossi – 1st, Brian Crowley (in white on the left putting amove on the leaders) up, Share out – 2nd, Philology – 3rd.

Virginia Fall Races 10-2-2011Maiden Hurdle Race for Four-Year-Olds and UpAlmarmooq - 3rd, Bigshot - 1st, Carl Rafter up.

Virginia Fall Races 10-2-2011Maiden Hurdle Race for Four-Year-Olds and UpAlmarmooq - 3rd, Bigshot - 1st, Carl Rafter up.


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FOXHUNTERGENTLEMAN FOXUNTER (early 70s) looking for QuietField Hunter (Second Flight). Please NO rearing, bucking,spooking, or cribbing. 16hh (+/-), 8-12 y/o. To excellenthome. Reasonable price only! email:[email protected] or telephone: (631) 473-6626(h) or (631) 473-6663 (fax).

HORSE BOARDINGBEAUTIFUL HORSE FARM - Warrenton Va (in town!).Openings for several full or field boarders. Padded stallswith fans and automatic waterers (in all paddocks as well).Full use of hot/cold wash, riding ring (indoor/outdoor),lounge. Many riding trails just a short trailer out. Trailerparking/storage included. Premium feed and hay,dailygrooming. Owner is a veterinarian. Available 11/1/11. FieldBoard $300, Full Board $700. Contact [email protected] (540) 229-1971.

MISCELLANEOUSEQUIGYM HORSE EXERCISER - Used, in excellentcondition. Located in Warrenton VA. $12,500, Size-7,Weight - approximately 3,700 pounds for a seven horsemodel, Forward/Reverse/Stop Switch, Speed Potentiometerto control the speeds. Speeds - 0 to 20 miles per hour.,Control Readout - speed in miles per hour. Electric FenceCharger is controlled with an illuminated switch placed onthe front of the control box. Drive - Mitsubishi Inverter, 5 hp.Gear Motor - Nord, 2 hp. Direct Drive, inline with centershaft. Maintenance, grease two bearings holding the centershaft. Excellent Customer Support and service. [email protected], (540) 229-1971.

Charles “Chuck” Thomas HoovlerSportsman, Executive & Volunteer

Charles Thomas Hoovler, age80, passed away onSeptember 28, 2011. He wasborn on June 22, 1931 inWhite Plains, NY, to MaryAlicia Sweeney and CarmenLivingston Hoovler, nowdeceased, and preceded indeath by his brothers WilliamSweeney Hoovler, CarmenLivingston “Mike” Hoovler,Jr., and Robert, who died ininfancy.He is survived by his wife

of 58 years, Wilma Avery Hoovler; his two sisters-in-law Marian and Rose Hoovler; three daughters and theirspouses: Cynthia Leigh Hair and William Harding Hair,Jr., of Warrenton, Va., Karen Anita Crane and MichaelRiggs Crane, of Delray Beach, Fl., and Shelley LynnPayne and George Latham Payne, Jr., of Keswick, Va.,five grandchildren and by many nieces and nephews andtheir children and grandchildren.Chuck moved to Virginia as a young boy and quick-

ly adopted his new state. He proudly served in theUnited States Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman and aTail Gunner in Attack Squadron 175 on the USSRoosevelt, USS Coral Sea, and USS Midway from 1948to 1952. Following his service he attended the Collegeof William & Mary, graduating in three years with a BAin Economics in 1956.Following graduation, he joinedCommunications, Inc. with his two brothers. He and hisbrother Bill continued the business and went on to cre-ate Ancom, Inc. and BCH, Inc., of Arlington, Va.In 1985, after the sale of Communications, Inc.,

Chuck embarked on his second career, bringing hisbusiness skills, humor and energy to numerous organi-zations and foundations. This included: the VirginiaGold Cup Association, Executive Board Member, andDirector of Traffic/Security for both The Virginia GoldCup and The International Gold Cup Races; TheMeadows Outdoor Foundation (now Great MeadowFoundation) of The Plains, Va., Board Member; TheFauquier Club of Warrenton, Va., Board Member; theKiwanis Club of Arlington, Va., member; the FauquierCounty Economic Development Commission,Chairman; and Lord Fairfax Community College, BoardMember, where he was instrumental in establishing fullaccreditation for community college courses allowingstudents to transfer into Virginia public universities.For many years Chuck served as Ringmaster for the

Warrenton Pony Show, the Warrenton Horse Show andthe Upperville Colt and Horse Show. As a landownerand longtime supporter of the Orange County Hunt, hevolunteered at their annual events, including the TeamChase in the fall and the Point-to-Point in the spring. Healso was a strong supporter of the Middleburg OrangeCounty Pony Club and the MOC Beagles.Chuck’s greatest passion was serving as a Trustee of

Glenwood Park in Middleburg, Va. Under his guidanceand management, he and his fellow Trustees made mul-tiple improvements to the race course, including newbuildings, turf management and historic tree preserva-tion. The most significant of their land conservationachievements was placing the race course into perpetu-al conservation easement so it will be available forfuture generations.Given this lifetime of service, Chuck received

numerous awards and commendations, including the2002 Warrenton Horse Show Gilman Volunteer Award,the 2005 Piedmont Environmental CouncilConservation Volunteer Award, a MeritoriousRecognition Award from the Fauquier County Sheriff’sOffice for Outstanding Contributions to Public Safety,the 1985 Medallion of Recognition from Lord FairfaxCommunity College, and the 1989 Great MeadowVolunteer of the Year.

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Cheri & Martin Woodard Sperryville, VA (540) 987-8500

2. ASHTON FARM, SLATE MILLSThis traditional two over two farmhouse (circa 1920) has been enlarged and completely remodeled and now it is a showpiece for country living. It has been updated with cedar siding, sleek new bathrooms, a gourmet

for a couple of horses. $525,000

main house, a dramatically sited guest cottage and pool set against the lovely backdrop of the Shenandoah National Park and a six stall stable. $1,350,000

1. DOGWOOD VISTA, SPERRYVILLE

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3. FOUR SPRINGS FARM, AMISSVILLEThis lovely open land is located in the heart of Rappahannock County. With ample water and rich soils, it is ideal for cattle, horses, grapes or a specialty agriculture operation. There are several out-standing building sites with approved percs. 52.9 acres $547,000 26 acres $295,000

PatrickswellMiddleburg, Virginia

$10,500,000264 acres in Orange County Hunt • Mainhouse of stone construction • 4 bedroomsplus an in-law suite • Pool • Tennis court• 20 stall center aisle stable • Farm office• 1/16 mile indoor track • Guest house •Available with 164 acres for $7,500,000

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

MistralUpperville, Virginia

$1,950,00028 acres • First floor living includes mas-ter suite with office • Large formal livingroom • Mature gardens • Spring fedpond • 3 additional bedrooms • Greatviews • Tree lined driveway

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

110 East Washington Street • P.O. Box 1380Middleburg, Virginia 20118

(540) 687-5588

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Pohick FarmDelaplane, Virginia

$6,850,000464 acres with postcard valley views •Recorded in 4 lots • 4 bedroom home •Pool • Pool house • Rental house• 3 creeks • 1 pond • Great for horses,cattle or vineyardHelen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Bedrock FarmBerryville, Virginia

$2,500,000276.38 acres • Cape Cod w/3BR, 2.5 BA• Guest house • Pool • 2 barns •Numerous outbuildings • Land level •Fenced & cross fenced • Mountain viewsPaul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Withers Larue RoadBerryville, Virginia

$567,000Custom built log home • 3BR, 3BA• Stone fireplace • Exposed log walls• Vaulted ceilings • Great views • Roomto expand • 25 acres • Could work forhorses


Rectortown RoadRectortown, Virginia

$775,000Quaint village setting • First floor mastersuite • 2 additional bedrooms •Charmingguest home • 3 stall barn • 3 acres •Lovely setting


Hidden Brook FarmUnison, Virginia$1,650,000

25 acres • Bright open floor plan • Firstfloor bedroom • Pool • 16 stall stablewith apartment • Lighted stone dustarena • Great ride outHelen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Beaver CreekPurcellville, Virginia

$950,000Extensive recent improvements •Panoramic views • 11.5 acres • 4 bed-rooms • 2 fireplaces • Hardwood floors •Pool with cabana • Barn and shop •FencingPaul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Trough HillMiddleburg, Virginia

$5,000,000103 acres • 1800’s Virginia farmhouse • 9fireplaces • 5 bedrooms • Guest house •Pool house/game room • Gorgeous stonewalls, terraces and garden walls • Pond• Barns

Ann MacMahon (540) 687-5588Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Warwick FarmBluemont, Virginia

$1,500,000Turn key horse operation • Log & cedarhome • 13.37 acres • 3 BR • Mountainviews • 3 car garage • 4 stall center aislebarn • 90x180 bluestone & shreddedrubber ring w/ irrigation system • 2 run insheds • Pond & stream.Joseph Keusch (540) 454-0591

HarborvaleMiddleburg, Virginia

$1,950,00051 acres in Orange County Hunt •Minutes from town • Stone cottage isnow a shell ready for construction • 3 carstone garage • Stable • Tenant house •Large pond • 2 parcelsHelen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

Little River LaneThe Plains, Virginia

$599,00010 acres • Excellent location • Brickgarage with apartment(needs to be fin-ished) • Septic & well installed • Twoponds lead to house site • Private yet easyaccess to Middleburg and The Plains.


In & Around Horse Country

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