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2026 School Horse Nominees

Here are the nominees for our 2026 School Horse Initiative!

Nominees are listed alphabetically by Farm/Riding Program Name.

Cecil/SBF package deal

Senator bell farm

I almost quit riding after the horse I was leasing (and I didn’t know it was a pain issue) left me with a concussion and permanent back issues. When I came to Senator bell I had let someone talk me into going there. Cecil gave me enough confidence and rebuilt my skills I lost by simply learning to anticipate being thrown over the horses head. I accidentally stopped that saint in front of a jump and he still went over it. 1 year later and I’m now working with my first green bean. I’m going to be blunt I’m autistic and will never find the words to express all that horse did for me and he is 100% the reason I still ride. He’s the been there done that school horse and at 14 has learned to run away from anyone in tall boots in his paddock until they pay the snacks tax. I am forever grateful for that horse and all he has taught me and the growth he has allowed me to achieve with him.

Paris

Serenity Ridge Farm

Paris is the best! She is always so calm and caring. She has taught many riders to jump safely.

Paris

Serenity Ridge Farm

Paris is the best! She’s taught so many riders how to jump and is always so calm and caring!

Paris

Serenity Ridge Farm Riding Academy

Paris absolutly does it all for anyone. English, western, jumping, endurance, IHSA, eventing, dressage, h/j. She is so patient. She is a one of a kind and the sweetest horse we treasure every day.

Ivy (Her show name is I’ve Been Spotted)

Shadow Creek Farm

I chose to nominate Ivy because she is 100% my heart horse. She taught me everything I know about riding and has helped me gain so much confidence. She is a sassy mare who is a hard worker and a perfect show pony. She loves to jump and loves her job. I think she’s the perfect pony for this award!

Weydown Enchantment (Cheerio)

Shadow Creek Farm

My daughter has been riding 2 years and she has been primarily riding Cheerio. This horse is so loving, kind, hardworking and the perfect match for my daughter. She brings out a level of confidence and enthusiasm in my daughter and also pushes her to be a better rider. Our entire family loves Cheerio! Best pony ever!

Solomon

Showtime stable

Solomon and Michael had a Stellar career when Michael was a junior Rider, they were often top 10 in the Marshall Sterling standings, competed in 4-H and had multiple Florida State championships as well as 4-H Southern regional metal championships for 3 years. Solomon is now semi-retired and only giving riding lessons. He is 26 years old, he shows up to work everyday with a smile on his face. As long as the kids give plenty of scratches and cookies. Cookies. Is cherished on our farm, he is humble. He is Noble. He is everything to us

Karen

Silver Streak Stables

After losing my heart horse of 18 years last March, I looked for a program with school horses so I could get used to riding a new horse prior to purchasing my next partner. Karen has fulfilled that role with extra to spare. This wonderful mare has shined in so many things and has retaught me to ride another horse and was my stepping stone to moving on. She is 1000% reliable from stepping into the western dressage arena, jumping a hunter course at a new indoor, trail rides at the Gettysburg battlefield, and babysitting the young TBs ponying them around the field. I couldn't imagine a more deserving school horse who has given me the confidence to continue riding and relearning a variety of disciplines.

Akiva

SNS Equine

Akiva is a six year old Thoroughbred who was literally born to be a children’s horse! She retired from racing as a three year old and easily transitioned into the world’s best lesson horse! At six she now offers rides to riders of any age and level, including special needs students! You couldn’t find a kinder or more patient mare in the world.

Dillon

SNS Equine

We would like to nominate Dylan for the School Horse Award in recognition of the incredible impact he has had since coming under Kelly’s care. Dylan has given countless young riders the rare and invaluable opportunity to feel safe, confident, and capable as they learn the foundations of both horsemanship and riding.

He is patient, kind, and endlessly gentle—especially with the youngest riders. Most recently, Dylan helped Emma gain the confidence to enter her very first horse show, where she proudly earned her first ribbon and was named Grand Champion in the walk–trot lead line division. Dylan, as he has been for many years, was a true champion in the ring.

Since joining SNS, Dylan has helped Emma grow not only as a rider but in her overall confidence. She has even ridden her first canter with him—an unforgettable milestone made possible by Dylan’s steady, forgiving nature. He truly knows how to take everything in stride and always does his very best during lessons. Dylan is the definition of a school horse: dependable, generous, and deeply loved by the riders who learn from him.

Oliver Twist

Southern Bit Farm

Oliver Twist “Ollie” was first purchased by my friend Amy as a 6yo. She worked with him in eventing, driving and foxhunting and sold him after developing him. He went on to live in California, do second level dressage and became and eventing school master. He made his way back to Amy 10 years later and has been leased to many children over the years. Ollie has become a reliable school master for our program and pony club. Ollie lost his eye on a lease, and we rehabilitated him and he’s taken 3 kids in the last few years onto their first events! He’s now being ridden by a fourth child whom he adores! Our challenge is Ollie is quite expensive to keep. He has special shoes, maintenance meds and needs to keep his feet dry, and Adequan and injections. He is but 21 after all! We do charge a pony use fee but that still doesn’t cover all of his expenses. We want to keep Ollie going for more kids to ride abd also as a mount for pony club kids who do not own their own horse. Ollie is reliable, and always takes the jump. He can be speedy with a confident child, but also will canter backwards on slow motion for the more timid rider. He knows all things and is such a genuine Teddy Bear. I owe so much to Ollie and for all he has given to so many!

Taxi

StableMovements

Taxi has been the rock for our therapeutic riding program. Each participant miunta Taxi as the evaluation horse and he always knows his job. He has a calm and caring attitude towards all of his riders

Melody

Star Hollow Stables

Oh Melody is beautiful inside and out . She just radiates calmness and steadiness in lessons and during horse shows. My granddaughters have ridden her for 10 years and she is their riding foundation. We love her so much!

Timbit

Stepping Stone Farm

Timbit has taught so many children how to ride,
From lead line to short stirrup
He’s very special

Timbit

Stepping Stone Farm

I have been taking care of Timbit for 20 years
He has taught children from , lead line to short stirrup
He’s a very special pony

Mimic

Stonehaven Farms

Mimic is the perfect school horse, and is a fan favorite! She is so kind and gentle on the ground, and loves treats. She carries around all levels of riders and takes any joke thrown her way. She participates in all levels of IEA, including walk-trot flat classes through Open Fences. She also has participated in IHSA shows. In lessons she teaches all levels of riders, which includes kids, teens, and adults. She has participated and won at many off-farm rated and schooling shows! She is the perfect partner and a great asset to our school program! We are so lucky to have her!

Wishes Come True aka "Luck"

Stonehouse Stables

Luck has been a school horse for 15 years. He is the golden child and has taught countless people to ride. At almost 30 years old, he is adjusting to less jumping but still packing kids and teens around to learn to walk, trot and canter. A true piler to our community. He has also participated in IEA and IHSA in the past.

Winnie

Stoneleigh Burnham School

The most perfect safe horse, everyone moves up on him, always wins horse of show at IEA shows.

Skylar

Stoneleigh Burnham School

Skylar is a sweetheart! He is very gentle and has a lot to teach the kids. He has been IEA Horse of the Show several times this season!

Ben

Stoneleigh burnham school equestrian

The sweetest boy in the world. Protects you with his life. Has the speed but also the ability to follow your directions so simply. Always working hard even in long lessons he’s always giving it his all making the end of the lesson no different from the start. Grooming him is like a dream. Not a once of being girthy or sassy. Bridles in a second lowers his head so you can reach and is the most patient boy even when your having a tough time. He’s always snuggling and getting scratches from all his barn friends. Overall he’s the best horse I’ve ever met and he deserves the world.

Ben

Stoneleigh-burnham school equestrian

Ben is the best lesson horse. He always takes care of his rider. He teaches riders how to steer with their legs, bodies, and hands. He can jump the moon and is the sweetest horse on the ground!

Winnie

Stonleigh Burnham School

Winnie is the most talented and perfect angel. He deserves to be spoiled. Winnie he taught me how to ride up to a jump with impulsion and I’m very great full that he’s in the program.

Fendi

Sunflower Meadows Equestrian

Trendi In Fendi, “Fendi”, is truly worth her weight in gold to say the least. She does it all, and with a calm demeanor. Leadline lesson unicorn, team favorite IHSA/IEA pony, really the pony that truly does it all - and more. From lower level eventing, visiting kids at school to learn more about horses, to the long stirrup ring, and even bopping around the jumpers. Fendi is the worlds best teacher, the most predictable pony, and truly is one in a million!

Trendi In Fendi

Sunflower Meadows Equestrian

She is the most saintly of a pony there is. Always handles mistakes like a pro and seriously loves teaching anybody and everybody. She is definitely a barn favorite!

Trendi with Fendi

Sunflower Meadows Equestrian

She is an amazing little pony! My 4 year old has been on her back since she was 1 years old!

Fendi

Sunflower Meadows equestrian

She is a sweet girl and easy going.

Fendi

Sunflower Meadows Equestrian - lesson facility

Riding Fendi since she was 4 years old and it was love at first sight! The most well tempered, patient, gentle and consistent pony. I can't explain the confidence that Fendi has given my daughter and how much she means to her. She is the definition of a gentle giant and deserves this recognition!

Lambo

Tally ho training

Lambo is a very special lesson/lease horse. From my personal experience. Lambo wasn’t just a teacher he was a partner. He helped so many student get to where they are now. A he personally helped me regain my confidence after a horrible horse accident. He has such a unique personality. He’s silly, caring and gentle

Mick

Tally -Ho Training

Mick is a Morgan in every true fashion. He is the most popular horse in our lessons program because of his kind fun deminor. He can take a joke, give a wonderful snuggle and loves his less life and barn family. He is an original foundation of our program and at 24 Year signage is still full active and happy in his roll. He is truly a horse that everyone needs him to be. He loves his life and has built the foundation of countless equestrians.
We love you Mick.❤️🐎

Mick

Tally-Ho Training

Mick is very patient and careful to keep his riders safe!

Mick

Tally-ho training

Mick is truly the best! Well behaved with kids and horses! He has a wonderful attitude, always! A wonderful jumper! Also he gives the best kisses!!

Tinkerbell

TallyHo Training at Blue Sky

My daughter rides three different horses with her trainer, Christy Collins, but after some falls and struggling to progress with one of the horses, Christy suggested riding Tinkerbelle to gain more confidence. Tinkerbell has done it all in her day and while she is past her prime days of formal showing, she has allowed my daughter to grow and gain skills beyond what we could have imagined. Tinkerbell has a positively wonderful demeanor, adjusts well to her rider, knows what she is supposed to do, is incredibly safe, has a wonderful gait, and also stretches her riders' comfort zones. My daughter is now jumping 2 feet and has not fallen off once on Tink. She has given my daughter such joy and build her skills and confidence in a way I could not have imagined.

King

Tenderfoot Stables

King is a very popular lesson horse among students of all levels. He is a gentle giant that is very dependable both inside and outside the ring.

King

Tenderfoot Stables

King is a really kind gentle giant who has helped a lot of different people over several years learn how to ride. From jumping to western riding, King puts his best hoof forward in every thing he does. While I would have felt compelled to nominate him just for that, the reason I feel he is a good nominee for this award is because this past summer he really stepped up for a program that was in need. When a therapeutic program suddenly lost a horse and didn't have a replacement, King volunteered for six weeks to fill their need while they looked for a replacement. He is an angel and deserving of all the awards for his dedication to teaching humans of all backgrounds the love of a horse.

King

Tenderfoot Stables Corp.

In a learning environment where confidence and trust are essential, King consistently demonstrates such a patient demeanor and is just the gentlest giant. His calm presence helps all riders, especially beginners, feel safe and supported, so riders of all levels can focus on developing their skills and build their confidence. This past summer, King volunteered at another farm for individuals with special needs in their therapeutic horsemanship program. And he also enjoys the benefits of being a horse model!

Benjamin (Benjamin Button)

Thomas School

He is one of the best horses I have ever gotten to ride. Taught me a lot. He is amazing!

Benjamin Button

Thomas School

Benjamin is the best, most amazing horse ever! He has the best personality and always makes me laugh. He is also the best teacher☺️

benjiman

thomas school

he is very sweet and very good a jumps and lead changes!

Benjamin

Thomas School of Horsemanship

I am nominating Benjamin for Horse of the Year because of his outstanding performance, consistency, and heart. Throughout the seadon he demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and resilience in every competition. He rose to challenges, delivered impressive results, and stood out among strong competitors. Beyond talent, this horse showed incredible spirit, work ethic, and heart. For these reasons, he truly deserves recognition as Best Horse of the Year.

Benjamin

Thomas School of Horsemanship

I am nominating Benjamin because he is just so confidence boosting and all around a great horse. After a bad fall, he was the first horse I felt comfortable riding. Benjamin is a great horse to ride in lessons, clinics, and an angel at IEA shows. Everyone who rides him loves him. I have never not had a smile on my face while riding Benjamin!

BENJAMIN

THOMAS SCHOOL OF HORSEMANSHIP

I am nominating Benjamin for Best Horse of the Year because of his outstanding performance, consistency, and heart. Throughout the seafon, he demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and resilience in every competition. He rose to challenges, delivered impressive results, and stood out among strong competitors. Beyond talent, this horse showed incredible spirit, work ethic, and heart. For these reasons, he truly deserves recognition as Best Horse of the Year.

Benjamin

Thomas School of Horsemanship

He’s the best and cutest boy!

Benjamin buttons

Thomas school of horsemanship

Benjamin is always up for a lesson and loves trail rides. He is one of the safest and most reliable school horses he could have a month off and still go quietly and confidently, as if he never missed a day. With his incredible personality and steady nature, Benjamin truly loves his job and takes the best care of his riders every day.

Benjamin Button

Thomases School

He is amazing and such a great horse to learn and practice on.

Tony Pony Aka Pony Jesus

Three Ships

This pony will let the tiniest tot ride him around. He knows what to listen to and what to ignore. You just put the quarter in and he does the rest. Easy to go, goes really slow, and easy to woah. Forgot the 2-point? No problem, he just picks up his little legs and never moves his body. His canter is so smooth so he teaches Littles how to sit still. He is the trainer while I just assist! He will also dress up in any costume you would like! He has the confirmation of a Jersey cow but he is one in a million!

Bling

Timber Grove Equestrian Center

Bling is always ready to give it his all! He’s all heart and everyone knows/loves him at the barn!

Jett

Timber grove equestrian center

His very smooth canter teaches new riders how to canter! He is very forgiving and easy going.

Bobby Joe

Tuff Performance Horses

She is a wonderful, well rounded horse. She has patience with her young riders.

Ever After / Spicey

Turning Point Show Stables

Spicey and I have been teaching children together for about 20 years! Spicy is 33 this year! I bought spicy for my daughter and she has stayed with us forever. She is part of the family. She has taught more children than possibly any pony I’ve ever met!. She has the kindest soul, the sweetest temperament. She’s truly one in 1 million. And now my two-year-old granddaughter is riding her. It has come full circle.

Poco

Unity Srables

He's perfect! I think every child that starts out rising at unity starts riding Poco! He is a perfect boy for everyone who has the pleasure to ride him!

Poco

Unity Stabled

Poco is a gentle giant! He was the first horse my granddaughter ever rode( she was 2 years old)! He is a favorite horse of all our new beginner riders. He is a great horse to teach the older riders too!

Poco

Unity Stables

Horses like Poco are once in a lifetime and barns that have them are blessed by the universe. Regardless of the rider’s level of skill, he will take care of you. From toddlers to seniors, Poco is a consummate professional. His canter is like riding a sofa, his kindness as big as his half-draft body. I was fortunate to have ridden him many times when I first started taking lessons at Unity and instantly fell in love. The patience this horses has with incompetence is unreal.

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco is the most gentle giant, he is so kind, loving, talented.
Anyone from a toddler to an older Adult can ride him and always feel safe and comfortable!
He is an absolute joy to ride!
The BEST lesson horse !!♥️

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco has been a part of Unity Stables for years. Many kids have been given the chance to ride him. He is so gentle and one of the best! My daughter rode him in 2011, when she was 9 years old(I will post the picture below) we were back at the farm visiting this past year(2025) and we were so happy to see he was still there!

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco is the best of the best and truly the greatest teacher! The definition of a gentle giant, he takes care of your most timid beginner but can put on his fancy pants for the more advanced riders. Everyone who meets Poco loves him to death and we’re beyond lucky to have him as the world’s best lesson horse! Thank you for all that you do, Poco!

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco is the kind of horse who gives endlessly without asking for anything in return. With years of miles and countless riders, he has quietly taught confidence, kindness, and trust. He shows up every day with a gentle heart, taking care of everyone who sits in his saddle. Poco deserves this nomination not just for what he does, but for who he is—a true gift of a school horse.

Poco

Unity stables

He's is perfect for anyone! Starters thru high jumpers. He is just an all around amazing boy!

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco is a big, steady, gentle, and safe guardian for beginners of all ages and sizes. He performs beautifully up the skill level of riders. His understanding and response with such a range of people is enormous, making him a one of a kind standout star.

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco gave my mother a wonderful, safe, fun ride for her 90th birthday!!!!
He never disappoints.

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco has been on the farm for many years. He has been a wonderful horse for all ages to learn and grow with. He continues to do so and everyone in Jen’s lesson program have loved him forever, both beginners and experienced riders. A gentle and understanding gentle giant.

Poco

Unity stables

Poco is the kind of lesson horse who’s seen everything: first rides, nervous hands, unbalanced legs, and big learning moments—and he takes it all in stride. He carries kids patiently, adjusts himself without being asked, and seems to instinctively protect whoever is on his back. He doesn’t rush, doesn’t spook, doesn’t complain. He just shows up and takes care of his rider every single time.

Poco

Unity stables

Poco is a lesson horse that all the riders have been touched by in the lesson program at Unity stables. He is the sweetest most deserving boy that has taught many riders the basics! We love poco!

Poco

Unity stables

Poco helped me after being in a coma. Over many years riding Poco brought me through the Hunters as a Junior, he kept me safe and in the ribbons at every show. But most notably, many years after my showing him had stopped, in 2014 I was in a coma, part of my recovery goal was to get back on a horse. When I came to the barn to get on for the first time, the horse I’d ride was never a question, it was always going to be Poco. He took care of me on that first ride back and every ride after, he helped me through my healing process and kept me riding through the hardest time in my life.
I get so much joy watching him in the lesson program today still knowing he is the safest horse for anyone to learn on. We are lucky to have Poco.
The attached photo is from that first ride. 10/25/2014

Poco

Unity Stables

Poco is the kindest, sweetest most tolerant and loving boy, he is so respectful and anyone from a toddler to an older adult can have the most pleasant and safe ride on him.
He is a joy to be around, he has the sweetest personality.
All around perfect boy!!♥️

Poco

Unity Stables llc

Poco is what we consider famous in the horse world. Not because of any prestigious awards or titles, but because he has helped thousands of riders achieve their goals, improve their riding and learn new things. He has carried riders from the ages of 1 to almost 100. He is known by most as The Gentle Giant. His trot is so smooth we call it the Poco shuffle. Poco is a huge reason that Unity Stables is where it is today. He is the king of the farm, the gentlest of souls and one would think he is fully capable of understanding the human language. First time riders, 3' jumpers, dressage movements, he does it all. He is a favorite with the IEA teams, he teaches a number of college kids, riders with special needs, and can be found as the cover photo to many facebook pages. Poco is worth his weight in gold! He is 25 years old this year and has been part of the Unity Stables lesson program for about 17 of those years. He is deserving of every carrot, cookie and award there is.

Mac

Valley Park Stables

Mac is the kind of lesson horse everyone hopes for and never forgets. He is the definition of a wise old gentleman. He has the rare ability to make things approachable for new riders without ever making them too easy - he asks just enough that riders must learn, grow, and earn their progress. Mac has a funny, endearing personality paired with a kind, quiet disposition that builds confidence and trust. He has taught every member of my family something meaningful about horsemanship and riding, meeting each rider exactly where they are. Mac shows up every day with a grateful heart, a steady presence, and just a hint of sass - especially when it’s time to tighten the girth. He is truly a once-in-a-lifetime lesson horse.

Eloise

Vintage Oaks Farm

Eloise is a small welsh pony, who has taught countless children how to ride. She is a literal angel within her herd and the sweetest creature.

Peanut

Westwood Welsh

We have owned Peanut since birth. She is 31yrs old. Peanut has taught and raised many kids and some adults She is a saint

Flash

Whispering Oak Farms

I am nominating this horse because he has helped me achieve some of my goals he was my first horse I jumped, first time doing canter poles with

Fuzzy

Whispering Willow

Some horses spend their lives chasing glory in the show ring.
Others are bred for speed, power, or prestige.

But then there are horses like Fuzzy.

Fuzzy is a 23-year-old Quarter Horse, and his life has been defined by Service.

He began his career as a camp horse, the kind of horse entrusted with the biggest responsibility of all, carrying beginners. Summer after summer, Fuzzy patiently gave children their first taste of horseback riding. He was the steady presence beneath nervous laughter, the calm partner for kids still learning how to hold the reins, still figuring out how to trust an animal so much larger than themselves.

Even then, he had the disposition of a saint.

Camp horses don’t get to choose easy days. They teach countless riders, endure endless mistakes, and offer patience that seems impossible. Fuzzy did it all with quiet grace, never asking for anything except perhaps a soft word or a well earned scratch on the neck or treat.

As the years passed, Fuzzy transitioned from camp horse to lesson horse, continuing his lifelong role as a teacher. Now, instead of summer campers, he carries students week after week, riders learning to post the trot, master their first canter, or simply find confidence in the saddle.

He has been the first horse for so many people. The first ride. The first trot. The first time someone felt brave.

And through every stage of his life, Fuzzy has remained the same:

Steady. Gentle. Forgiving.

He stands quietly while riders fumble with tack. He listens patiently to confusing cues. He never reacts with frustration when someone makes a mistake. Instead, he responds with understanding, as if he knows his job is not just to carry riders, but to take care of them.

In the arena, Fuzzy is more than a school horse.

He is a safe place.

It is easy to overlook lesson horses, especially older ones. But barns are built on horses like Fuzzy, horses who spend their lives creating riders.

A 23-year-old Quarter Horse doesn’t become a saint overnight. Fuzzy has become one through decades of patience, through years of quiet work, through a heart that never seems to tire of teaching.

He is not just a camp horse turned lesson horse.

He is a teacher.
A partner.
A legend in the lives of those he has carried and love him dearly, like this writer.

And in our barn, Fuzzy will always be remembered as something rare:

A horse with the disposition of a saint.

Bob

Wicks Creek Stables

Our beloved Bob works almost everyday in lessons teaching kids the basics of riding. He is such a sweet horse and cares so much about every rider he carries. He never gets angry, is always patience, and is the most loving companion. We love him so much and wouldn’t trade him for the world. We believe that our dear Bobby would be a good fit for the prize.

Bob (Divo’s Royal Reflection)

Wicks Creek Stables

I recently had a really bad fall that resulted in a fractured sacrum. I’ve been really struggling with anxiety when I ride since then, but not with Bob. Bob is one of those horses you could trust with your life. Put me on Bob backwards, blindfolded, with my hands tied behind my back, and I know Bob will take care of me. Bob has even been teaching my mom how to ride. He’s the only one she will trot on. He is the definition of perfection, but sometimes I feel like he doesn’t get the credit he deserves from the kids in the program. They don’t understand how lucky they are to have a Bob in their life. He deserves a moment in the spotlight for the way he shines like a star every single day.

Divosroyalreflection aka Bob

Wicks Creek Stables

Bob is the perfect horse for beginners. He is so gentle and well behaved for the newer and younger riders. He was the horse who taught me how to ride. He taught me all the basics and how to be where I am today!

Bob

Wicks Creek Stables / For The Love Of Pete

Bob is the most gentle, calm, and most patient horse. He is perfect for first time riders all the way to advanced riders as he always listens to commands and aims to please. He also does great in all of the horse shows he performs in. Not to mention, Bob is so handsome!

Lolly

Winding Hill

Lolly is tough when you first start riding her. She doesn’t trot or canter to weak commands. She teaches you how to be commanding. Once you get her going, you know that you’re doing it right. She teaches you how to be in charge and it builds rider confidence.

Besos

Winding Hill Stables

“I like Besos because she’s strong & fast & she can jump, & she trots really well. She’s also hard headed which is really good because she knows her limits & won’t hurt herself accidentally.. She’s the one I ride & I just love her” - Zara, aged 12

Besos

Winding Hill Stables

Besos taught me how important it is to be confident as a rider and how to trust a horse. I learned to jump on her and i’ve been riding her for 5 years. She is the most amazing horse I’ve ever met.

Besos

Winding hill Stables

Over the past 6 yrs I’ve watched my daughter excel with Besos, we had the pleasure of leasing her for 2 yrs. After many years as a sideline equestrian I decided to take the plunge at ripe ol age of 56. Besos taught me physical aptitude and emotional restraint under pressure. She took me over my first cross rail with grace, always patient w me. She gave me so much more than a skill set that I had adored and admired for years. She taught me connection and respect. Wish I had started sooner !!!

Lola

Winding Hill Stables

She is the most comfortable horse to ride.

Lola

Winding Hill Stables

Lola is the perfect school horse. She caters to all- beginners through advanced and has won many medals for her riders even in the 3'3! She may be small but she is mighty

Lola

Winding Hill Stables

Lola was a fabulous hunter and jumper in her day. She is sweet and consistent. She now schools new riders to become confident and talented.

Lolly

Winding Hill Stables

Lolly spent her younger years competing in the Children’s & Low Children’s Hunter Horses. She now teaches everyone everything, from their first time trotting to their first full courses, she is the best teacher!

Lolly-Ooh La La

Winding Hill Stables

Lolly is the perfect teacher for anyone of any age to learn the ropes of riding! She is such a fun ride and has the sweetest personality!

Shannon

Winding Hill Stables

My daughter has been riding with Winding Hill for 10 years and while she never rode Shannon, I’ve watched from afar at how darling and special this horse is. Often referred to as saintly, he is just the best teacher to all the young riders in the barn. He’s a special one that certainly deserves special recognition!

Shannon

Winding Hill Stables

Shannon always makes me feel safe when I ride him.

Shannon

owner name - Christy Alexander-Salant email - windinghillstables@gmail.com

Shannon is not like other ponies. He’s steady as an old tree—rooted, patient, unshakable. He has that rare kind of gentleness that makes you feel safe the second you’re near him, like he could fit in your pocket and still somehow carry the whole world on his back. He’s simply the sweetest.

He took my girls—6 and 7—from their very first lesson in August 2025 to the present day, where they’re trotting on their own with quiet confidence. With Shannon, they didn’t just learn how to ride. They learned how to love horsemanship.

Because with Shannon, it’s never only about the time in the saddle. They ask to stay after lessons just to be with him—to brush him until his coat shines, to bathe him and watch the water run dark with dust and summer, to take their time picking out his hooves like it’s the most important job in the world, and to make sure he’s tucked in safe and sound before they leave. Shannon turned “lesson” into ritual. Into devotion.

And the truth is, their love affair with him began long before they ever met. Three years earlier, we’d drive past the barn again and again—on errands, on busy days, on ordinary afternoons—just to catch a glimpse of Shannon in the paddock, enjoying the sunlight like he owned it. From the confinement of the car they’d call hello, small voices full of hope, and whisper the same wish: Maybe one day we’ll get to pet him.

Now they do more than pet him. Now they’re his people. And he’s theirs. Best friends—written into each other’s days, afterschool friends, like it was always meant to be. Shannon may be just a school pony, with no fancy horse shoes on his hoofs, and an old saddle, loved by each and every littles he teaches, but to my little girls he's the pony of their dreams, the topic of conversation at the dinner table, and the star of all their artwork and doodles we hang on the fridge.

Shannon

Winding Hills Stables

I nominate Shannon because he is very kind and fun. He helps me learn and makes me feel safe, even when I’m a little nervous. When I do my best, he listens and tries hard too. Riding him makes me feel proud and happy, and we’re learning together every time we ride.

Ryder

Winter Rose equestrian

Ryder is a rescuer off the track thoroughbred, he is always forgiving and very loving to anyone near him. He takes not just adults but little kids around the arena, even if it’s just a pole, or nothing, or a jumping course he always tries his best and puts smiles on every riders face!

Quite Frankly

Y Knot Equestrian

This pony really knows his job. If you put a kid on him, he knows their limits. If you put a more experienced rider on him, he will test them, which helps to strengthen the riders skills. I have shown him many times and although he isn’t the fanciest pony, we always walk out of the ring with placings, and most of the time end our division with Reserves or Grands. He loves treats, sometimes a little too much, and he loves attention. He’s a sweet and smart boy and the best pony anyone could ask for. Alivia Kinlaw definitely knows how to find extraordinary horses for her program.

Grand Prix Equine

203-733-0789
P.O. Box 37, Hawleyville, CT 06440

Connecticut | Westchester | Long Island | Wellington

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