02/25/2025
Rollingwoods Walk Softly ties for Welsh of the Year!
We are so excited that “Sophie” was named Welsh of the Year alongside Lazy J Star Witness! Thank you to all who voted. Sophie has truly earned this prestigious title, and we are honored that she has been recognized in this way. Her brain, versatility, and talent have shone brightly, and we couldn't be more thrilled for her well-deserved achievement. Included below is Sophie’s nomination write up.
“Rollingwoods Walk Softly “Sophie” is an exceptional candidate for Welsh of the Year, as she epitomizes the versatility, reliableness, and exemplary brain of the Welsh Pony. Sophie is the once in a lifetime pony that every equestrian dreams of and her accomplishments in 2024 prove just that. Sophie kicked off the year with a bang, earning her AOH, which is a feat in and of itself. However, with a pony as special as Sophie, the points and ribbons are just the icing on the cake. What is truly special about Sophie is how she takes care of her riders and drivers. Sophie has participated in the Germantown Charity Horse Show, an All Breeds Show in a chaotic venue under the lights with a very large (and loud) crowd for several years. It is an incredibly spooky environment, but this of course doesn’t stop Sophie from continuing to take excellent care of her drivers and riders. In 2024, Sophie carefully carried a four year old little girl in the Leadline Class. She never set a foot wrong while doing this. Sophie then competed in the highly competitive Carriage speed division with Alex Clark, winning two out of three classes, making her the champion of that division. What makes Sophie truly stand out, however, is her exceptional versatility. Immediately following the speed division, where she ran as fast as she could possibly go, Sophie’s tack was quickly changed for the Junior Driving division, where she was paired with 8 year old novice driver, Ashlan Adair. Despite the adrenaline and high energy following the speed division, Sophie was able to turn around and be the perfect child’s driving pony. She took care of Ashlan through all of the chaos of this exciting show. While caring for a child is the most important thing a pony could ever be tasked with, Sophie didn’t stop there. Not only did she take care of Ashlan, but she also carried Ashlan to earning champion of the junior driving division. There are very few, if any, other animals that can so quickly go from running at top speed to safely caring for a child. Sophie’s ability to do so is truly exceptional, and the fact that she can win while doing this is just gravy. These qualities are what makes her students from novice to advanced agree she is the ultimate lesson pony. A lot is asked of Sophie and not only does she do what is asked, but she also exceeds everyone’s expectations time and time again. No matter who she is paired with, or what the circumstance is, Sophie excels at her job. Sophie highlights all the best qualities of the Welsh pony and there is not a better ambassador of the breed.”
