by Nancy Jaffer | Nov 5, 2022
Dreams of thoroughbred racing glory sometimes do come true, but when that happens for a special person on an international stage, it’s an unforgettable emotional experience.
“There’s a big story behind it,” trainer Bill Mott noted today at the Breeders Cup, and that’s an understatement.
The amazing tale of Cody Dorman, a 16-year-old with a rare genetic disorder called Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, and the thoroughbred he loves highlights the power of the equine-human connection.
The two met when the horse was a foal at Godolphin’s Gainsborough farm. It happened in connection with the Keeneland racetrack’s Make-a-Wish day. Cody’s wish was to be introduced to a thoroughbred, which is how he got together with the son of the great Curlin.
Cody’s Wish and Cody Dorman share a special relationship. (Photo courtesy WKYT)
The foal, who usually was a bit stand-offish, recognized a soulmate and put his head in Cody’s lap. Boy and horse bonded instantly.It was only natural for the farm to come up with the name Cody’s Wish for the colt.
Cody Dorman wanted to be at every race in which the horse was entered, believing that is a prerequisite for the colt to enjoy victory.
Although Cody can only communicate using a tablet that works with eye-tracking, he makes his desires known. The teen has had more than 40 operations and suffers seizures, but nothing keeps him down.
“You cannot talk about him without talking about his heart. It’s not in him to quit on anything,” said Kelly Dorman, Cody’s father, who considers the Godolphin crew to be family now.
Cody has been cheering the beloved horse on ever since the eye-catching bay first went to the track. When Cody Dorman comes to the barn, Cody’s Wish immediately locks eyes on him.
In August, Cody’s Wish won the Grade 1 Forego Stakes at Saratoga. The Breeders’ Cup was in his future, and Cody Dorman focused on that championship competition. Of course, he was at the track for it today.
The relationship with Cody’s Wish has brightened the teen’s outlook.
“We can see such a difference in him. Cody was in a very dark place and this horse has changed his life,” said his mother, Leslie Dorman.
For her son, the outcome of this afternoon’s $1 million Big Ass Fans Dirt Mile at Keeneland was never in doubt.
“He will win,” predicted Cody. And that was just what happened.
Cody’s Wish at the wire. (© Dylan Buell/Getty Images North America/TNS)
Cody’s Wish, a four-year-old carrying 126 pounds who was sent off as the favorite, and Cyberknife, the three-year-old winner of last summer’s Haskell Invitational carrying three pounds less, battled it out in the stretch until Cody’s Wish had the edge by a head at the wire.
It happened the way one would envision the storybook ending if it had been written to wrap up the script.
In the spirit of the moment, Florent Geroux, Cyberknife’s jockey, gave a post-finish line fistbump to Junior Alvarado, who rode Cody’s Wish. It was a magic moment, illustrating an understanding of how much the victory meant.
As Cody’s Wish headed toward the winner’s circle, everyone was crying; not just Cody and his family, but so many in the packed stands at the Kentucky racetrack who saw not only a great race, but what some might call a miracle. Can the movie be far behind?
by Nancy Jaffer | Nov 4, 2022
The Delaware Valley Horsemen’s Association, a grassroots show series that ran for more than seven decades in Hunterdon County, N.J., has called it quits.
Founded in 1949 by veterinarian, Dr. Welling Howell, the organization in its prime offered competitions for everything from hunters, jumpers and dressage to western, thoroughbreds, draft and driving. It became a popular destination for riders beginning their show careers or those who simply wanted to compete in a low-pressure atmosphere.
Over the years, top professionals such as Frank Chapot and George Morris found it a good place to start their green horses. Olympic double silver medal star Gem Twist even competed there at the beginning of his career.
Dr. Howell’s commitment to DVHA was carried on by his widow, Wanda Howell, who died last year. The organization, which traditionally ran its shows with volunteers, had 50 life members, some of whom no longer live in the area, according to DVHA chairperson Judith Stratton.
This year, according to former president Sue Haydu, there were 35 members, down from an all-time high of more than 300 at one point.
There were not enough members to put on the shows, Judith commented, saying it was difficult to get people to come out and help.
But Jessica Brittain, who was president of DVHA until September, said, “no one was picking up the slack, so I decided to try.”
Of the shutdown, Judith said, “We knew it was coming; we held on as long as we could. We just didn’t have the support.”
A statement from DVHA said its board “sadly came to the realization that DVHA was no longer sustainable and voted to dissolve.”
“It’s very sad, but times have changed,” commented Denise Quick, who competed at DVHA for years.
There are others besides Jessica, however, who felt it should have kept going.
“I think closing it may have been a little bit premature,” observed Penelope Jo Schell of Valley Crest Stables in Annandale, who believes the DVHA shows were making enough money to cover the bills.
She remembers DVHA from the early ‘70s and the days when her parents were officers in the club.
“I grew up there and have since taken my students there for years and years,” said the trainer.
“I think we should have given it one last try.”
There are many reasons for DVHA’s demise, but a big part of it is the way the horse industry has evolved in parts of New Jersey and elsewhere as development continues to take agricultural land.
“Little shows are not able to make enough money, there aren’t many backyard horses,” Denise said, noting that at the same time, “there are so many horse shows.”
The show season, meanwhile, has transformed into a year-round enterprise. There was a time when few people would go south for the winter, so they trained their horses at home and took them to DVHA for an introduction to a show atmosphere before the season would start in earnest and they would go to bigger competitions. Now many competitors head for Florida as soon as the temperatures drop, while at home, several show venues keep running through the winter, but they are indoors.
The U.S. Equestrian Federation also has promoted its Outreach program for lower-level riders, which enables trainers to take their top riders to shows and also bring along beginners who they otherwise would have had to take to smaller shows or those that weren’t licensed by the federation, noted Sue Haydu.
At DVHA, “Entries were light, but I think entries are light everywhere because the pool is so diluted” with several shows to choose from on many weekends, pointed out Jen Cassidy, assistant trainer at Summerfield Farm in Pittstown.
The DVHA facility was “a little more old-fashioned” without fancy footing, she noted, “but I think the people who went this year tried to make it work.”
There were many things that led to DVHA’s demise, only some of which were unique to the organization.
In 2015, its treasurer was charged with embezzling more than $68,000, leaving the organization with only $500 to start the new season. Although the former treasurer’s sentence required her to pay back money, Sue Haydu said just $30,000 of that amount was received as the organization struggled to remain solvent.
“We owned the grounds…we needed to bring in enough money to cover taxes and insurance as well as running all the shows,” she said.
The Covid pandemic also hurt DVHA, in the same way it affected so much across the board.
Another factor in what happened to DVHA was dissension between two groups about how the association should be run.
When Jessica became president three years ago, Sue said, the approach was changed to let both members and non-members win high score awards.
With that model, Sue asked, “Why join?”
Jessica, who is the trainer at the Phoenix Rising Farm in Milford, runs schooling shows there and had experience managing the Briarwood shows, which were a popular series in Readington for years. She said she was forced to resign from DVHA in September.
Upon hearing that plans were to dissolve DVHA, her reaction was, “You can’t do that,” contending the decision was made by “this little band of older members. They decided they just wanted to close down; (they felt) it wasn’t worth trying anymore.”
Jessica saw DVHA as a place for kids to “get their feet wet” before going to bigger shows. She said at the last show, there were more than 100 entries and enough money was being made to keep the shows alive “until we made a better profit. We would have kept it going.”
The closure “wasn’t up for a true vote,” she contended.
The showgrounds of nearly 10 acres in East Amwell are for sale, and the hope is the property will go for agricultural use, rather than construction of the three houses that would be permitted on the property under the current zoning.
Proceeds will go to four beneficiaries named in a dissolution agreement, according to Judith. They include the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation, a veterinary school within 50 miles, tuition for a local veterinary student and a therapeutic riding organization.
by Nancy Jaffer | Nov 1, 2022
Bobby Costello, who oversaw the U.S. silver medal team at the eventing world championships in November on an interim basis, has been named technical advisor/chef d’equipe for the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s eventing program.
“I’ve been involved in the sport beginning with my first competition at the age of 12 and have been privileged to wear many different hats within the sport ever since,” said Bobby, who was eighth individually in the 2000 Olympics.
Bobby Costello in action during his competition days. (Photo © by Nancy Jaffer)
“Being interim chef for the last seven months has left me with a clear idea of what is necessary in supporting our athletes in producing more exciting medal-winning performances for the U.S.
“As we look toward the Paris Olympic Games 20 months from now, I look forward to getting right to work collaborating with our top athletes, owners, grooms, and USEF staff.”
Also on the horizon is the 2028 Olympics, which takes on even more important than usual for the U.S. because it will be in Los Angeles. All the Olympic disciplines and those involved with the paralympics already are making plans for a great showing in 2028.
USEF CEO Bill Moroney said, “Bobby has demonstrated his ability to lead the U.S. Eventing Elite Team by engaging athletes, coaches, owners, and support personnel; fostering a positive team environment and ensuring integrity and excellence throughout the program.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Nov 1, 2022
The National Western Stock Show’s grand marshal for its 2023 kick-off parade is author, speaker and professor of animal science, Temple Grandin.
On Jan. 5, she will lead the traditional drive of Longhorn cattle, horses, and western wagons through the streets of downtown Denver to celebrate the start of the 117th National Western Stock Show. The parade begins at noon outside Union Station and marches 12 blocks down 17th Street to Glenarm Place.
“It is a great honor to have a legend, visionary and dedicated animal scientist like Dr. Grandin kicking off our Stock Show parade,” said Paul Andrews, president & CEO of the National Western Stock Show.
“The impact Temple has had on the welfare of livestock, the science of animals, and her unique approach to equine therapy for both horse and human is unprecedented in today’s world,” said Paul.
“We are beyond grateful that Temple continues to educate the youth of America as a professor at Colorado State University, author, and speaker. She embodies the values of agricultural education on which the Stock Show is founded.”
Temple Grandin is an autistic savant who is a prominent author and speaker on autism and animal behavior and a professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. Her successful career includes consulting for livestock producers and the agriculture industry on her intuitive approach to handling livestock.
Temple’s innovative equipment design that focuses on the welfare of the animals has been instrumental in implementing animal welfare auditing programs used by McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Whole Foods, and other companies. Temple has shared her insights on numerous TV shows. Her books, Animals in Translation and Visual Thinking, have been on the New York Times Bestseller List. Temple was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame and in 2022, named a Colorado State University Distinguished Professor.
“I am honored to be the Stock Show parade grand marshal,” said Temple.
“I encourage everybody to visit the Stock Show and see all the animals. The National Western is an ideal place where kids can get off their electronic devices and discover that real animals are more interesting. I also want to invite everyone to visit the new Temple Grandin Equine Center at the CSU Spur Vida building while at Stock Show.”
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 27, 2022
After a two-year pandemic-related absence, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair finally is coming back to Toronto, where it will celebrate its hundredth anniversary in November.
The stands are always filled for show jumping at the Royal. (Photo © by Nancy Jaffer)
The finale of the North American Fall Indoor Circuit, the Royal has been a bastion of custom even as the circuit has changed.
While the Pennsylvania National remains the kick-off of the circuit at the same location in Harrisburg, the Washington International this year moved out of the nation’s capital to Maryland. The National left Madison Square Garden 21 years ago and has been in Kentucky for the last 11 years.
But the Royal is in the same place, the Royal Coliseum at Exposition Place, where it debuted a century ago.
During that time, it kept traditions that can’t be found elsewhere. Formal dress is still what’s worn in the bunting-draped box seats at ringside, with women in sparkling gowns and men in tuxedos or scarlet evening tailcoats. There’s always a full measure of pomp for the trophy presentations.
Pomp and formality are a big part of the Royal’s appeal. (Photo © by Nancy Jaffer)
The show wouldn’t be out of place in another century. The classes reflect that nostalgia, too. In addition to the usual hunters and jumpers, there’s coaching competition with magnificent four-in-hands and hitches of draft horses; Percherons, Clydesdales and Belgians.
The Royal draws a great turnout of coaches for a memorable display. (Photo © by Nancy Jaffer)
The international jumper competition, rated 5 stars this year, includes many big names from the U.S. and abroad. McLain Ward is one of the regulars, and Canadian stars include Tiffany Foster, while Great Britain’s Olympic individual gold medalist Ben Maher and world number five-ranked Conor Swail of Ireland also are set to appear,
The Royal is the largest indoor agricultural exhibition in the world. There are 6,000 animals at the fair. Although the horses are a focal point, other species on display include cattle, pigs, goats, rabbits, fowl and more. Much of the floor space is taken up by vendors of everything from saddlery to Ontario agricultural products such as fish and cheese and as you might expect, maple syrup, along with lots of related items in that category.
The show runs Nov. 4-12, with a rodeo Nov. 13. This year, the big exhibition is the Royal Canadian Mounted Police drill team, appearing daily except. Nov. 7.
From the New York metropolitan area, the easiest way to get to Toronto is via Porter Airlines, which flies out of Liberty International Airport and lands on an island in Toronto, just a short bus ride from the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, where the riders and show officials stay.
Tickets for the show are available at this link
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 24, 2022
The FEI (international equestrian federation) will consider bids for the World Equestrian Games to be held in 2026.
The last WEG was staged in 2018 in Tryon, N.C., amid all kinds of problems (an aborted endurance race, a weather-cancelled dressage freestyle, continuing construction). The world championships cycle this year included two major joint competitions; dressage, para dressage, vaulting and show jumping in Herning, Denmark, during August, then eventing and four-in-hand driving at Pratoni del Vivaro, Italy, last month.
While bids may be submitted for a WEG, the FEI is also accepting bids for other world championships, whether solo or in a group (although dressage and para dressage must be run together).
The show jumping podium at the 2018 WEG: USA gold, Sweden silver, Germany bronze. (Photo © 2018 by Nancy Jaffer)
The opening date for expressions of interest in a world championship or championships is Oct. 24. The deadline for formal submission of bids is April 14, 2023. Allocation of bids will be made in June 2023.
The WEG ran for the first time in 1990 in what was supposed to be a one-off celebration of multiple disciplines in Stockholm, Sweden. It was so successful that it continued to run every four years through 2018. Finding a location that can host all disciplines is difficult, however, since each has a variety of needs, and running the WEG is exceedingly expensive for the host.
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 9, 2022
Are you looking for tack, horse blankets, boots, breeches, knick-knacks or other equestrian items?
Go to Mane Stream’s sale at 83 Old Turnpike, Oldwick. It will be held from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 6. Before then, drop off your items or call for a pick-up. Contact Jen at (908) 439-9636 or email to jen@manestreamnj.org.
Proceeds go toward Mane Stream’s mission to improve the quality of life for individuals with physical, developmental, emotional and medical challenges through a diverse program of equine assisted activities, therapy services and educational initiatives.
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 26, 2022
Joey Norick will take a new position at HITS, working as chief customer officer, focusing on the needs of owners, trainers, vendors and exhibitors, and being responsible for the customer experience.
His appointment reflects the consumer-oriented philosophy of Traub Capital Partners, the owners of HITS, which is making continued improvements to all six venues, as well as elevating the level of service and experience for the exhibitors.
“Equestrian sports are constantly evolving, and I am looking forward to working with the HITS team to exceed expectations of all of our exhibitors,” said Joey.
“My vision to enhance our facilities includes improving the drainage and footing in our competition areas, as well as upgrading our amenities, such as food services, exhibitor hospitality locations and even restrooms. We will be working to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere at every HITS venue for every HITS customer.”
He began training with Ralph Caristo on Long Island and then headed to California to continue his career at Foxfield Riding Club. A stint with Sam and Libby Edelman’s S&L Farms in North Salem, NY and Wellington, Fla., was the next step.
He went into horse sales and then the equine insurance business. He oversees a portfolio of farm and ranch properties, equine mortality and high net worth clients for Alliant Private Client, where he will continue to serve as an advisor.
“We are excited to partner with Joe, a clear thought leader in the equestrian world,” said Geoff Lurie, HITS’ interim CEO and managing partner of Traub Capital Partners.
“Joe’s long history and expertise in the industry, coupled with his dedication to customer experience, align with our philosophy and approach. We look forward to his contributions in helping the HITS team elevate the company’s position in the equestrian world.”
HITS revolutionized the industry when it produced three of what were then the richest grands prix in the world. HITS expects 65,000 horses to compete at its shows, which include 60 weeks of sanctioned Hunter/Jumper competitions at HITS’ six venues. HITS also offers six weeks of dressage.For more information, go to http://www.hitsshows.com
Traub Capital Partners is a New York-based strategic private equity firm specializing in building value in consumer companies using its unique combination of investment, strategic and operational expertise, as well as a culture-led, engaged approach. The fund targets investments in companies with revenue between $50 and $250 million.
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 29, 2022
Alice Tarjan of Oldwick, N.J., took her second FEI Dressage World Cup Finals qualifying freestyle in a month as she won the Freestyle competition at the Tryon, N.C., show today with Serenade MF.
She was marked at 75 percent over the show’s Grand Prix winner, Julio Mendoza Loor of Ecuador on Jewel’s Goldstrike (74.185). They were the only competitors in the four-horse class to break 70 percent.
Alice also won the freestyle during Dressage at Devon at the beginning of October. She and Serenade were the alternates for the FEI World Dressage Championships last summer.
Alice and Serenade at Devon. (Photo © 2022 by Nancy Jaffer)
While Alice will have to continue competing her U.S.-bred mare through the winter in order to earn one of the three North American slots for the finals in Omaha April 4-8, those who want to attend the Cup as spectators will have an easier time of securing their place at the Chi Health Center.
The usual show jumping and dressage competitions will be joined this time by vaulting, gymnastics on horseback that is a real crowd pleaser, with its costumes and music in the final rounds.
Omaha put on a heck of a show the last time it hosted the finals in 2017. Next year’s finals will be the first in the U.S. since then, because the 2020 finals scheduled for Las Vegas were cancelled due to Covid.
Some of the biggest names can be expected to compete, such as the 2017 winner, Isabell Werth in dressage and McLain Ward in show jumping.
Seating is limited, so if you want to go, this is the time to buy a ticket and reserve a hotel.
Click on this link for more information.
by Nancy Jaffer | Oct 23, 2022
The Rutgers Equine Science Center is conducting the 2022 Equine Industry Needs Assessment Survey to determine what concerns are most important to those involved with horses.
The survey is available through Nov. 1. Anyone can participate if they are over 18 years old and involved with horses in the U.S., either through riding, owning horses, running a horse-related business, or in some other way. Use this link to share your views and opinions in the 10 minute anonymous survey.
“Everyone’s opinion matters for this project”, said Karyn Malinowski, director of the Rutgers Equine Science Center.
“The main goal of this survey is to help us better understand how the Rutgers Equine Science Center can best support members of the equine industry in New Jersey and nationwide. Other aims are to learn more about the different groups that are part of the equine industry with regard to their demographics, interests and the issues that are important to them”, she said.
Those who have questions about this project may email the study coordinator, Alisa Herbst at ach158@sebs.rutgers.edu or phone: (848) 932-3761.
