• World Cup Gold Medal, and All the Happenings!

    0 comments / Posted by Ann Wilt


    FIrst of all, we're thrilled to congratulate RIchie and his Team USA teammates on the 3 gaited team on bringing home the gold medal from South Africa.

    They competed on horses unfamiliar to them, and prevailed over teams from Canada and South Africa. As expected, Richie racked up some major pattern points for his team, ensuring the win.

     

    Everyone at Knollwood understands the busy-ness of the holiday season.

    Today’s blog will be a short one, so everyone can enjoy time preparing for celebrations with family and friends.

    We hope all our friends enjoy a holiday season filled with good food, good health, and good cheer! And naps!!

    Here are some exciting events coming up this winter:


     

    Chute Construction has Begun.

    Please excuse a little bit of inconvenience as the chute is rebuilt. We’re looking forward to a reinforced structure, a new roof, new doors, insulated walls, an extended lean to, and a dropped ceiling. It will be worth a little bit of creativity the next few weeks, we promise!


     

    The Sale Continues.

    While you’re doing your last minute shopping, don’t forget that Knollwood is offering 10% off anything you purchase before December 31.

    You can pay ahead for an enrolled student, or purchase a Welcome to Knollwood for a friend, or even a mini camp for a younger sibling.

    Please talk to your instructor, or give us a call at 262-367-239. We’re happy to design a plan for you!


     

    It’s a Tight Election.

    This year’s election for school horse of the year is a tight one. All four candidates are fabulous choices, so be sure your voice is heard.

    Please be sure to renew your Knockout membership to receive your ballot.

    If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to have you. Your instructor or admin would be happy to help.

    The winner will be announced at the banquet.

    Polls close on December 31!


     

    Banquet Reservations Due January 3.

    Our Knollwood Knockout banquet is coming up fast on January 25 at the Legend at Merrill Hills. A fantastic event, we gather annually to celebrate all things Knollwood.

    We'll celebrate last show season and get ready for next year with awards, speeches, and Scott’s ‘State of the Farm’ address.

    Of course, we'll also enjoy social time, a delicious buffet dinner, and end the evening with a DJ.

    Be sure to turn in your paid reservation by January 3 so you don’t miss out on the celebration.

    Not yet a member? We’d love to have you.

    Please talk your instructor or admin to join the club.

    Lastly, please help us celebrate in style by adhereing to the Legend's country club dress code: No denim of any kind, and men's shirts must have collars and must be tucked in.


     

    Private Shopping Night

    January 3 from 7-9 PM

    Hilton Garden Inn, Pabst Farms in Oconomowoc

    Jen from Midwest Saddleseat Consignment is coming with her wide assortment of show clothes for both academy and show riders.

    For our academy riders, Jen carries several different brands of show jods, so she’s a great place to start putting together your show look.

    The customer service can’t be beat!


     

    Looking for Parent Volunteers.

    If you’d like to help a great group of horse kids with their club activities, please join us on Saturday, January 18 at 2:00 in the show barn lounge.

    We’re looking for parents to help with Knollwood shows, and with events such as the annual car wash, Knollwood Olympics,  and the holiday party.

    We offer lots of opportunities to work with Knollwood Kids. We hope you’ll join us to learn more!


     

    The Best Banquet!

    The Knockouts will gather Saturday, January 25 at The Legend at Merrill Hills. Social time starts at 6:30 with buffet dinner starting at 7:15.

    We hope all Knockouts will join us for our annual celebration.


     

    Knollwood’s Used Clothing Sale

    Saturday, February 1 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

    Join our experienced show moms to help you put together a new show outfit, or update last year’s.

    Jodi will be on hand with her accessories, including her wonderful tie collection.

    If you have outgrown show clothes you’d like to sell, please bring them to the school barn by January 15. Please tag them with your name, cell #, price you’d like, and approximate size of the items.


    Academy Tailor Appts

    Our recommended tailor, Trish Griswold, will be at the farm on Saturday, February 8. She has some appointments available after 10:30 for measuring for new shirts and/or vests, or to alter existing clothing. Please talk to Ann if you’d like an appointment.


     

    IASPHA Spring Show

    April 12-13

    Our first academy show of 2025

     

     

    Knollwood Spring Show

    May 16-18

    Our first in-barn show of 2025

     

    See you soon at the barn!



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  • All The News!

    0 comments / Posted by Ann Wilt

    The 2024 Knockout holiday party was a rip-roaring success. While the weather wasn’t winterish, the warm temps sure made the scavenger hunt easier. Teams of Knockouts covered almost the whole farm to finish the hunt, and earn the right to be first at the delicious pizza from Picnic Basket.

    Candidates gave their speeches, answered questions, and the voting began. After tabulation, the results were really close. Here are the 2025 Knockout officers and board.

    Co-Presidents: Jilly and Kylie

    Chairman of the Board: Kali

    Board members: Aubrey, Kali, Leighton, Madison P, Madison S, and Maddie R.

    The new executive team is meeting in January to start planning 2025. Please bring your ideas to any officer, or to Ann so we can talk about it!

     

     

    World Cup 2024

    Knollwood Kid Richie is in Parys, South Africa representing Team USA in the ISSEA World Cup. The team is competing against teams from Canada, and host country South Africa.

    Richie and his family are enjoying trips and events before the competition begins, and will stay on for a week to explore parts of Africa.

    Richie is competing on the 3 gaited team, and will compete on a horse assigned by his coach. Horses used by each team were selected in a random draw, and each coach assigns each horse to the rider he feels will handle that individual the best.

    Here’s the link to the live feed from the event. You can also catch some of mom Tracy’s reflections on our facebook page. Great thanks to her for sharing her experiences with all of us.

     

    The Chute is Being Rebuilt!

    When the project is completed, you can expect a new, quiet roof, insulated walls, new doors, and an extended lean-to in the school horse pasture so turning horses out on rainy nights will no longer be a super soaker event.

    Please be aware that we may have to be creative getting to the arena for a brief period of time.

    The insulation is coming just in time!

     

    Merchandise Has Arrived!

    Our BIG merchandise order has arrived, and is ready for pick up. Please talk to your instructor or your admin who can retrieve it from its secure location.

     

     

    2025 Enrollments

    Your instructor must have 2025 enrollment forms for each and every student to our business team SOON. Please get your completed info to them, or confirm your info with your instructor if you’ve already met and come up with a tentative plan.

     

     

    10% Off Through 12/31

    You can purchase any lessons and receive 10% off through 12/31/24.

    You can ALWAYS purchase 6 months of enrollment and receive 10% off the total. That’s right, 365 days a year you can receive 10% off a 6 month or more enrollment.

    Please talk to your instructor or admin.

     

     

     

    Missing Lessons?

    If your travel plans will make you miss lessons over the holidays, please inform your instructor. We may alter daily schedules if cancellations are numerous. We greatly appreciate your help during the busy time of year.

     

    What’s Coming Up?

     

    Holiday Closures

    Knollwood will be closed December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.

    Lessons have been credited.

     

     

    Saddle Rentals Due

    December 31

    Academy saddle rentals are due by December 31. Please talk to your instructor about saddle assignment and payment details.

     

     

    Private Shopping Time!

    Friday, January 3

    7:00 – 9:00 PM

    Hilton Garden Inn, Oconomowoc

    Join Jen and her staff from Midwest Saddleseat Consignment to get your show clothing.  She carries a great selection of academy jods and vests, and her customer service is the best. We’ll be there to help with shopping.

     

    Parent Meeting

    Saturday, January 18 at 2:00

    Show barn lounge

    Parents, would you like to become more involved in the Knockouts? We’re hosting a meeting to get organized for the upcoming year.

    If you’d like to help a great group of Knollwood Kids, here’s your chance to have a great time while mentoring them.

     

    Knollwood Knockout Banquet

    6:30 Saturday, January 25

    The Legend at Merrill Hills

    All Knockouts have received their invitations to our annual celebration of all things Knollwood.

    We'll award winners for both in-barn and out of barn achievements, enjoy a delicious buffet dinner, watch a slide show highlighting memories of the year, and dance the night away with a DJ.

    Did we mention entertaining addresses? Adult Knockout treasurer Susan will update us on the club's finances, and Scott will present his 'State of the Farm' address.

    Remember that country club dress code is in effect. This means no denim of any kind, and that men must wear collared shirts that are tucked in. Thanks for helping us celebrate in style.

    Please be sure to have your payment and RSVP in by January 3. You can place it in the labeled box on the school barn lounge wall.

    Didn't receive an invite? We have extras at the farm. Please ask your instructor or admin.

    Not yet a member? We'd love to have you.

    Please talk to your instructor or admin to join  all the fun the group offers! 

     

    Knollwood Used Academy Clothing Sale

    Saturday, February 1

    10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

    Show barn lounge

    Has your academy show rider outgrown last season’s show clothes? Here's your chance to see the clothes in the arena again on an up-and -coming Knollwood Kid.

    Please bring your clean, gently used academy clothes tagged with your name, contact info, sizing info, and price. We’ll take care of the rest.

    New riders, please join us for shopping with experienced show moms.

    Jodi will be on-hand with her accessories, including her famous ties and bling.

     

     

    Academy Measuring Day, Part 1

    Saturday, February 8

    8:30 - Noon

    Trish, our recommended tailor is coming on Saturday, February 8 to measure for new vests and shirts, or to alter last season’s outfits. She’ll be here from 8:30 – noon. Please talk to Ann if you’d like to set up an appt.

    She'll be coming back on June 7 to measure riders for Showcase, and to alter for fall shows.

     

     

    We hope you find time to relax during the holiday home stretch.

    See you soon at the barn!

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  • Election Endorsements

    0 comments / Posted by Ann Wilt

    So, we haven’t done this for a while, but we’re going to let the lesson horses endorse candidates for the big election this month. While their reasoning may seem a little off, it is heartfelt.

     

    Earl

    Earl is representing the Shades of Gray Party and was nominated by Sparky.

    Sparky says, ‘We funny colored horses have to stick together.’

    Mac will be voting for Earl, stating, ‘What Sparky said.’

    Fellow Earl supporter Sherman says, ‘He looks like he might be the black sheep of my family, so I’d better vote for him. Families must stick together.’

    Last year’s election winner Pumpkin says, ‘I admire his chilled-out mindset, and I think I can help him represent my party, the Master of All Trades party by next year.

    Vaughn, of the second stall on the right, offered his ringing endorsement, ‘Earl … Is he the new grey guy?’

     

     

    Fred

    A Knollwood institution, Fred finds himself supported by many long term faculty members.

    Fellow institution Hugo says, ‘I fully endorse Fred, and all that he stands for: relaxation, low energy work, and his love of games on horseback. Plus, he promised us all daily naps during summer camp.’

    Beau opines, ‘A vote for Fred is a vote for consistency, and peace in the world.

    Hooper loves Fred from afar. ‘While I don’t know him very well, as we don’t have the same recess schedule, I like the cut of his jib.’

    Voting absentee from his retirement home, Duke is a full-throated Fred supporter. ‘I’m enjoying retirement at Hanna's house! A vote for Fred is a vote for living like you’re retired before you are. He sure knows how to relax and take each day as it comes.’

     

     

    Pony Frank

    Our unusually well behaved pony has the support of mares and fellow pony Bee.

    Nominator Bee says of her fun-sized friend, ‘We ponies have to stick together. Even though he’s not a Hackney, he’s still a good guy. He represents all that ponies stand for: mental brilliance, love of attention, adoration of good clothes, well developed senses of humor, and plenty of sass.

    Bilbo supports Pony in this election, adding ‘A vote for Pony is a vote for short men everywhere. They may call us little Napoleons, but we’re just demanding the respect we deserve as short, wide equines.’

    Poppy is throwing her support to Pony Frank, saying. ‘I have a lot of time to think while I’m in my private paddock. I’ll be voting for the funny looking little fuzzy guy because I like his plaid coat. People have voted for candidates for less important reasons, haven’t they?’

    Fiona is supporting Pony this election, saying ‘I like his cute little sass, like his pulling on his bridle. And pretending to be afraid of the heater. He’s a great pony,’

     

    Thomas

    Thomas had the support of the academy horses and several who long to join the exclusive team who represent Knollwood away from home.

    Nominator Leon says. ‘Thomas is everything you’d want in an academy horse. He’s handsome, he loves to travel, loves teaching and performing patterns, and will be whatever you want him to be. His nimble brain will challenge experienced riders at doors, but he’ll wear his halo when teaching the tiniest stars.’

    Mulligan endorses Thomas saying. ‘He welcomed me to Knollwood, and taught me a lot about how things work around here. When I grow up, I want to be like Thomas.’

    Baxter will be voting for Thomas. ‘Thomas represents all that an academy star should be. He enjoys travel, teaching new riders, and loves his summers of pattern camp.’

    Leona is casting her vote for Thomas, saying ‘I’ve only been here for a short time, but I recognize star power when I see it. Plus, he’s so dreamy…’

    Academy legend Dexter says, ‘He’s an academy show star for the ages, but the dude can’t find his own stall in the morning. Really??

     I guess we all have different gifts…’

     

    Please remember to join the Knockouts or renew your membership in the school barn lounge. Just place your dues in a membership envelope, fill out the front of the envelope so we can update contact info, and place your completed ballot in the box.

    We’ll announce the winner at the banquet on January 25.

    It’s going to be a nailbiter, and election turnout is essential.

     

    What’s Coming Up?

    The Big Sale

    Through December 31

    Don't miss out!

    From now through December 31, you can purchase any Knollwood lessons or shows and receive 10% off your purchase.

    You can use the discount on enrollments, horse shows or extra lessons - if it's taught at Knollwood, it's 10% off.

    Gift certificates are a great gift for Grandparents and family friends, too!

    Please talk to your instructor for details.

     

     

     

    Knockout Holiday Celebration

    Saturday, December 7

    6:00 PM

    All Knockouts and their parents are invited to join our gala where we’ll have a team scavenger hunt, pizza, and officer elections for 2025.

    We’re also hosting an optional gift exchange. If you’d like to participate, please bring a wrapped gift of $25 value to join the fun.

    Parents are encouraged to come and are welcome to BYOB.

     

    Holiday Closures

    December 24, 25, 31, and January 1

    Knollwood will be closed for the holidays.

    All lessons will be credited.

     

     

    Knollwood Knockout Banquet

    Saturday, January 25

    6:30 PM social time, 7:15 PM dinner

    The Legend at Merrill Hills

    You don’t want to miss this.

    The annual celebration of all things Knollwood features a delicious buffet dinner, social time with friends, awards for in and out of barn shows, a slideshow, and a DJ.

    All Knockout members should have received their invitation. If you’re a current member and did not receive an invite, please talk to your instructor or admin. We have extras in the school barn lounge.

    Not yet a member? We’d love to have you.

     

     

    Midwest Saddleseat Consignment Shopping

    Friday, January 3

    7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

    Hilton Garden Inn

    Oconomowoc

    Jen and her staff will be in our neighborhood with their great selection of show clothes. Knollwood’s private shopping time gives us a chance to shop her store before it’s open to the public on Saturday.

    Plus, the customer service is terrific!

     

    Academy Tailoring Appts

    Saturday, February 8

    Starting at 8:30 AM

    Fantastic Trish is coming to measure academy riders for spring shows. She’s measuring for new outfits, and refitting last year’s outfits.

    Please talk to Ann if you’d like an appointment.

    Trish is coming back on June 7 to measure for Showcase and fall shows.

     

     

     

    Congrats to Maddie and all of our IASPHA high point winners!

    And great thanks for bringing all the awards home!

     

    See You Soon At The Barn.

     

     

     

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  • The Holidays Come to Knollwood

    0 comments / Posted by Ann Wilt

    Happy Thanksgiving to all!

    Thank you to all our friends and supporters who made this year spectacular for so many Team Knollwood members.

    We are grateful.

     

    Here Comes the Election!

    The primaries and debates are finished, and the lesson horses are happy to announce their candidates for Knollwood’s School Horse of the Year election.

    Here, in alphabetical order, are the final candidates:

     

    Earl

    This handsome newcomer has quickly won the hearts of all who meet him.

    He loves to travel slowly, loves people, and thinks hurrying is a waste of energy.

    Earl is known for his spectacular jog trot, his circular canter, and his repeated attempts to upgrade his living accommodations. When he first arrived, he was in the stall that now belongs to Mulligan. Earl is now happily living in the slip stall once occupied by the legendary Willy, but he frequently tries to ‘sneak’ into Mulligan’s new abode.

    Nominated by 2020’s School Horse of the Year Sparky, Earl represents the Shades of Gray Party.

    According to Sparky, ‘A vote for Earl is a vote for good looks and good energy.'

    Earl’s slogan is ‘Why fit in when you’re born to stand out?’

     

    Fred

    Fred is a Knollwood classic.

    This veteran teacher of the last stall on the left loves teaching new riders.

    Fred, whose Knollwood show name is Mr. Rogers for his understanding, is well known for his perfect square trot that will teach a rider to post easily, his refusal to let anything bother him, and his love of accordion music. Fred LOVES playing games, as he likes to show his cantering skills when his competitive streak comes out. As one of the pattern campers exclaimed during a spirited game of steal the crop, ‘It’s really not that bad.’

    Nominated by fellow easy going lesson horse Beau, Fred is proudly representing the Energy Conservation Party.

    When reached for comment after a nap, Beau shared, "A vote for Fred is a vote for peace, love, and understanding".

    Fred’s campaign slogan is, ‘What, me hurry?’

     

    Pony Frank

    Who can resist a pony? (Besides Scott.)

    Pony Frank is the perfect first ride for our smallest riders. His little trot helps even the tiniest Knollwood Kid learn to post. Steering is a breeze, as he just follows his instructor.

    Pony Frank loves his adorable wardrobe, especially his tiny Baker blanket which makes him look like Sherlock Holmes. He also loves small riders, loves to laugh when advanced riders try to ‘teach’ him patterns, and loves to run down to Fred’s stall when he comes in. He doesn’t think Fred notices, but he does.

    Nominated by fellow pony star Bee, Pony Frank is the candidate of a new political organization in the pasture, the Fun Sized Party.

    When asked about her candidate, Bee said "A vote for Pony Frank is a vote for great things that come in small packages."

    Pony Frank's campaign slogan is 'Don't worry about a thing. I've got this.'

     

     

    Thomas

    Thomas is an academy show master.

    Known in the Saddlebred registry as Fort Chiswell’s Aristocrat, this standout loves to introduce new academy riders to a little speed, and a lot of star power attitude.

    Thomas is known for his beautiful trot, his mastery of patterns, and his willingness to teach future stars of all sizes. He has an uncanny ability to adjust his speed and patience based on the size of the rider on his back. While he enjoys making an issue of an open door with an advanced rider, he’ll trot by with no questions asked when a 6-year-old is riding him.

    Thomas loves his little riders, going to horse shows, looking out his window, and challenging riders with his right lead.

    Oh, and he still can’t find his own stall after many, many years. He prefers a personal escort.

    Nominated by Baxter, Knollwood’s 2021 Horse of the year, Thomas is the candidate of the Academy Superstar Party,

    Legendary Baxter says, "A vote for Thomas is a vote for not sweating the small stuff when you excel at the important stuff."

    Thomas' slogan? It's 'Let's get on with the show!'

     

    The polls open on December 1, and will remain open until December 31.

    Just join the Knockouts, or renew your membership, and you’ll receive a ballot you can place in the box.

    Election results will be announced at the Knockout banquet January 25 at Merrill Hills.

    May the best lesson horse win!

     

     

     

    It’s Sale Time!

    Black Friday starts Knollwood’s annual 10% off sale!

    From Friday through December 31, you can purchase anything Knollwood and receive 10% off.

    You name it, gift certificates, enrollment fees, horse shows, it’s all 10% off.

    Now this year, there’s no need for a promo code at check out. Software has been updated and will automatically apply the 10% discount.

    You can purchase online or in-person. Current Knollwood families, please talk to your instructor to help with enrollment payments.

    As always, if you’d like to purchase six months or more of enrollment at one time, you can do that any day of the year.

     

     

     

    What’s Coming Up?

    Thanksgiving Closure

    Knollwood will be closed on Thursday, November 28, and makeup lessons have been scheduled.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

     

    Parents’ Night Out

    The Knockouts are gathering this Saturday from 6-8 PM to wrap gifts for our adopted family, enjoy pizza dinner, and play in the arena. We have a big group coming!

     

    Stirrup Orders Due

    Orders for holiday gift giving are due to Ann by December 1.

     

    Knockout Holiday Party

    The Knockouts are gathering on Saturday, December 7 to celebrate the season and elect new club officers for 2025. Please sign up in the school barn lounge, and let us know how many family members will be joining the fun.

    Party goers will enjoy a new group scavenger hunt, pizza, campaign speeches and election of new officers as Thea and Adrienne are heading to college in August.

    We’re also hosting an optional gift exchange. If you’d like to participate, please bring a wrapped gift with a $25 value to exchange.

    Parents are encouraged to attend, and are welcome to BYOB.

     

     

    Holiday Closures

    We will not be holding lessons on December 24, 25, 31, or January 1.

    These lessons will be credited to your account.

     

     

    Knollwood Knockout Banquet

    January 25

    Merrill Hills

    It’s our favorite night of the year as we celebrate all things Knollwood.

     Invitations are going out soon to all Knockout members, and RSVP’s are due by January 3.

    Please remember that country club dress code is in effect at this celebratory event. It means no denim of any kind, and men’s shirts must have collars and be tucked in.

    Help us celebrate in style!

     

     

    Academy Tailoring Appts

    Our fantastic academy tailor Trish will be at the farm on December 8 to measure for spring shows. Please talk to Ann if you’d like to schedule an appointment.

     

     

    IASPHA Spring Show

    April 12-13

    Our first show of the season is at Beyond Stable Farm in Woodstock, Illinois.

    We’re looking forward to it!

     

     

    See you soon at the barn.

     

     

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  • Finishing BIG!

    0 comments / Posted by Ann Wilt

    Team Knollwood has returned from the UPHA National Championship American Royal Horse Show, the final show of the 2024 season. What a show it was!

    The competition was incredibly deep, and Knollwood was always in the thick of it. We have so many stories to share, but we’ll control ourselves with just 6.

     

    Tancy and Mickey WIn the Day

    Lifelong saddlebred exhibitor Tancy is back in the winners circle where she belongs. She took some time away from showing to support her daughter Lora as she competed in the equitation division. Lora is now out of college and living in DC, so it’s Tancy’s turn.

    Since purchasing The Mouse King, known as Mickey in the barn, Tancy has been enjoying riding and showing this horse who loves showing. He actually loves being a horse!

    Tancy and Mickey won both their qualifier and championship in the Show Pleasure Veteran Horse division at the Royal.

     

     

     

    Shaye and Teddy, Poetry in Motion

    Shaye and Teddy, officially known as Fox Grape’s Fort Defiance,  always make a beautiful team. Powerful Teddy and calm Shaye are a duo that catch your eye right away.

    At Kansas City, Shaye and Teddy finished in the top 10 of the UPHA Challenge Cup National Final, and were reserve national champions in the senior equitation division.

     

    Brooklyn and Gamora, Strong Women

    Brooklyn and Gamora finished their Junior equitation career with quite a bang.

    Brooklyn and her big talented mare were dynamic as they finished third in their age group and the Junior championship at the Royal.

    Brooklyn teamed her enthusiastic mare through a tough pattern to claim a reserve national championship in the UPHA Challenge Cup Junior National Final.

     

    Leighton and Prince, Small and Mighty

    Leighton is in her first competition year out of the academy division. Since the start of the year, Leighton has amazed everyone with her drive to succeed.

    This Knollwood Kids has spent many, many hours building strength on the lesson horses, and it shows.

    At the Royal, Leighton was showing against riders who had been competing at this level for 2 more years, but she refused to be denied.

    Leighton finished her first ‘show horse’ year as the reserve national champion in the UPHA Walk Trot Challenge Cup Final.

     Great things lay ahead for this fierce Knollwood Kid.

     

    Richie, Mr Royal

    Richie, who is a true student of the sport, enjoyed a heck of a week at Kansas City.

     

    He started the week with a catch ride for another trainer. Richie showed Lucky You, Lucky Me to a second place in the 5 Gaited Show Pleasure qualifier. He came back later in the week to claim the reserve National Championship as well.

    College sister Tori couldn’t leave her studies at UW River Falls, so she asked little brother Richie to show her beautiful mare Stella’s Stilettos in the Country Pleasure division. Richie had a great time with Stella and earned a 5th place ribbon in the national championship.

    Richie has a particular skill at riding 5 gaited horses, and he’s had the chance to show a great one. He and Showdown, known at the barn as Tyler, have made a name for themselves all season.

    The Junior Exhibitor 5 Gaited division is a tough one, filled with the best youth riders on some of the top horses around. Richie and Tyler fit right in, using the ring like the pros that they are.

    These two earned a Reserve National Championship in a great class.

     

     

    Richie’s other love is the equitation division.

    He and Doc, officially known as Fox Grape’s Dark Mystery, have been a force all season. With wins or reserves at Bridlespur, Madison Classic, Midwest, St Louis, and Mane Event, Richie and Doc have enjoyed their march to KC.

    This athletic team rode to a 4th place finish in the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup National Final, and were Reserve National Champions in the USEF Medal Final.

    What a season this young man has had!

     

    Payton the Legend

    Payton finished her legendary junior exhibitor career at the Royal.

    She has shown in just about every division, and has excelled in all of them. We’re pretty sure Payton was a horse in a former life.

    She and her current horse Gigi, known in the Saddlebred registry as Isn’t She Something, are a sight to behold. It takes a special rider to ride such a spectacular creature, and Payton fits the bill.

    After wins or reserves at Bridlespur, Madison Classic, Midwest, Lexington, and a Reserve World’s Grand Championship at Louisville, Gigi and Payton were ready for their final challenge as junior exhibitors.

    The charismatic team finished a great seventh in the Medal final, and are Reserve National Champions in the UPHA Senior Challenge Cup Finals.

     

     

    Congratulations to all of our riders who competed at the Royal, and throughout the season. It’s been a season to remember, and we know that Scott will do a grand job of recapping all the events at his annual ‘State of the Farm’ address at the banquet.

     

    What’s Coming Up?

    Academy Demo Night

    We’re welcoming new academy riders for an evening of demos starting at 6:00 this Saturday. We’ll learn all about clothing, presentation, and what the judge is looking for. Please sign up in the school barn lounge if you’re joining us for the fun.

     

    Thanksgiving

    We’ll be closed on Thursday, November November 28 for Thanksgiving. Your instructor will schedule a makeup.

     

     

    Parents’ Night Out

    The Knockouts are gathering on Saturday, November 30 at 6:00 to wrap gifts for our adopted family. The event also features a pizza dinner and games with the Knockout officers and board members. Please sign up and pay your $25 in the school barn lounge.

     

    December

     

    Meetings

    Instructors will be meeting with each and every family to set up enrollments for 2025. Did you know you can include your camp and shows in your monthly enrollment? Your instructor will help set up an enrollment plan just for you.

     

    Voting

    Voting for School Horse of the Year starts on December 1.

    Primaries and debates are finishing up in the pasture.

    This week’s debate topic was 'Should sleeping in the round bales be allowed?'

     

    Holiday Party

    All Knockout families are invited to join the club’s holiday celebration on Saturday, December 7 at 6:00 PM. The party features a team scavenger hunt, pizza, an optional gift exchange, and election of 2025 Knockout officers. Parents are welcome to BYOB.

    Please sign up in the school barn lounge so we know how much food to provide.

     

     

    Holiday Closures

    Knollwood will be closed on December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.

    All lessons will be credited.

     

     

     

    See you soon at the barn!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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