07/26/2026
This time last week we were on our way home from another great show at Chatt Hills, hosted by the wonderful Elite Show Jumping! It was filled with a lot of laughter and memories, as well as a lot of firsts for both horse and rider!
Mario and Windsor Knot - One of my personal favorite "firsts" was that of our little leadliner! Shea's son took to the show ring for the very first time! I have known Mario since he was just a few weeks old and have been pateintly waiting for the horse "bug" to bite. It took him a while to warm up to horses and riding, but just in the last few months that bug finally bit and now he can't get enough! Even asking to ride in the pouring rain to prepare for his first show. He's worked very hard and did his absolute best and was awarded first place! He answered all the questions asked by the judge correctly and demonstrated jumping position too! I can't wait to see his riding grow! Congratulations Mario!
Isla and Windsor Knot - Another exciting and important "first" was Isla taking on her very first Rated horse show! She rode her heart out and faced new challenges with bravery and optimism. One of the most important lessons we learn as competitors is to leave our mistakes behind us. Never look back at a downed pole and always focus on the next jump in the course. I watched with pride as Isla pushed through big feelings, took on difficult and challenging courses, and faced defeat with grace. Always remembering to pat her horse and leave the ring with a smile. Amazing job Isla and Tye! You have many ribbons in your future!
Bobbie and GHE Within Range - Bobbie's "first" was a journey I'm very familiar with. Bobbie hadn't ridden in compeition since college! As a rider who also took a long break from compeition, I know how daunting and scary getting back in the show ring can be, and yet Bobbie never let her nerves show. Her and Range took on each course like a seasoned team! Great job Bobbie and Range!
Marissa and Big Boy Troy - The last "first" of the show was Troy attending his first Rated show as well! Troy has always enjoyed going to new places and Chatt was no exception! Troy had a blast and performed to the best of his ability, despite his excitement and all the distractions of the show enviroment. I'm proud of you Troy Boy! I can't wait to see how you grow with each new outing!
Nicole - I wanted to give a special thank you to Nicole and celebrate a "first" for her as well! She's been an equestrian for most of her life, with lots of shows and competing in her past, but had never been a groom at a rated Hunter Jumper show. This was her first time! She took excellent care of the horses, supported all the riders, and helped make this show run smoothly! We could not have done it without her! Thank you for all your hard work Nicole!
Boscoe - An honorable mention of a "first" is the newest little member of the Greenland Hills family! Boscoe is Shea's new Minature Pincher puppy and became the talk of the show! Everyone loved him and he stole the hearts of everyone he met with his tiny stature and spunky attitude. He also got many laughs and "awes" from all the places he would fall asleep. Horse shows are hard work! Welcome to the family Boscoe! Soon you will be a happy seasoned show puppy like Gemma!
I'm so proud of my whole barn and am grateful for the community we have built. Between the parents, owners and everyone in between, I appreciate you all! We are excited to visit Chatt again next month for the Bill Russel Memorial Horse Show!
Thank you to Isla's mom, Laurel, for capturing special moments this week as well! Your photos are amazing and we appreciate you!
