OK, now we’ve done it.

We walked through the barn asking people we met a simple question:

'If you were a Knollwood lesson horse, who would be? And why?'

The answers are unexpected, hilarious, and some are even wise.

Here, in alphabetical order are the people we met, and their reflections.

 

Instructor Ann would be Thomas.

They both like to go to horse shows.

She forgets things, just like Thomas who forgets where his stall is. Daily.

She gets crabby when her belt is tight, just like Mr T and his girth.

 

Second generation, and 5 year old  Knollwood Kid Ariya was very sure of her answers.

She would be Sparky.

He’s amazing at trotting.

He’s an antique. He’s 92 years old.

He’s a good snuggler.

He shed all over my pants today.

 

Instructor Brenda would be Bilbo.

He has a sparkle in his eye. (This usually means there’s a joke coming.)

He has awesome yoga moves like Brenda. His best known is downward facing pony.

He loves teaching. His specialties?

  He’ll back up the chute a few feet. Silently.

  He’ll happily reverse continually when a rider’s outside rein is too short.

 

Instructor and master scheduler Court would be Earl.

He loves to sleep and has good dreams.

 (You can tell when he’s dreaming because he moves his feet, twitches his nose, and whinnies with his eyes closed.)

He has a big happy heart.

He achieves what he needs to be successful, but reserves some energy for things he loves, like eating.

 

Knollwood Kid for life Jane would be Sparky.

 They both have manes of silver.

They’re both elders but prefer the term ‘vintage.’

They both like to snuggle but are particular about who they snuggle with.

 

Knockout Co-President Kylie would be Pumpkin

They’re both chill, but are willing to step it up to get stuff done.

They’re both unflappable.

They both love to help young Knollwood Kids become horse people.

 

Knollwood academy rider and Richie protégé Luke would be Pumpkin.

They’re both cool and confident.

They both enjoy daytime naps.

They’re both friends with everyone.

 

Instructor and Official Arena Timekeeper Molly would be Sparky.

 

Sparky has an internal clock set to the 15 minute mark to know when to reverse. So does Molly.

Sparky goes with the flow of lessons and so does Molly except if reverse timing is ignored.

Sparky is ‘older’  and yet young at heart. Molly is the same.

Molly grew up with Sparky and he taught her how to ride.

Instructor Nancy would be Dexter.

She pins her ears when someone comes near her ‘stall’ just like Dexter.

She’s been here forever, too!

She trips a lot, just like retired Dexter.

She gets fat off air just like him

 

Academy rider, Knollwood Kid and barn personality Olivia would be Leon.

They both like to nap during the day.

They’re both kind, but take no nonsense, unless it’s from their friends. Nonsense from friends is OK.

They don’t need to be flashy to shine.

 

Finally, third generation Knollwood rider and academy star Sammy would be Bee.

They’re both fast.

They can both be bossy sometimes.

They’re both pretty patient at most times.

 

Thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts about the best lesson horses in the world.

We look forward to asking more questions in future blogs, and we have some goodies planned!

 

 

What’s Coming Up?

The banquet

This Saturday at Merrill Hills.

After you hang up your coat, please find your name tag on the welcome table. Your name tag will also have your table assignment.  Courtney, Kerry, and Susan spent a lot of time creating the seating plan, so please stay at your table for dinner.

The Knockout officers and board members will be on hand to help guests locate their tables.

We can’t wait to see everyone!

All through February

Jelly Bean Jod ordering

  Size samples and order blanks are available in the school barn lounge. Our ‘classic’ kids jod comes in navy with tan sticky knee patches. They’ll also have our name embroidered on the back of one of the legs.

Jelly beans are perfect for everyday and Knollwood show wear. Best of all, they’re customizable by length, pocket selection, and waist.

Camp selection for enrolled riders.

If you’re a currently enrolled rider, and didn’t add your camp week in your monthly bill, here’s your chance to pick a week of summer riding school before dates are released to the public.

Please talk to your instructor to see which session would be right for the rider in your house.

All camp fees will be billed in March.

 

Used Clothing Donations

Through February 5

Bring in your gently used academy clothes for the sale on February 7. We’re looking for show jods, shirt and vest combos and boots.

Please bring them to the school barn lounge where you can tag your items with your info.

 

Used Academy Clothing Sale

Saturday, February 7 at 10:00 AM

Join our academy moms to shop for the 2026 season.

Jodi will be here with her accessories and ties as well.

 

Alterations with Trish

Saturday, February 21

9:00 – noon

The amazing Trish is coming for measuring for new show clothes, or for alterations existing clothing.

Please contact Ann if you’d like to set up an appointment.

 

Knollwood Spring Entries

March 6-20

Spring is coming. Really.

Get your entries in for our first in-barn show of 2026. The show is May 15-17, and the schedule remains the same.

We’re excited to announce that our judge for the weekend is Margit Rhode, champion rider, UW student, and Knollwood Kid for life.

 

Academy Kickoff

March 14 at 6:00 PM

All academy riders and families are invited to an informative and entertaining evening. We’ll learn about clothing, makeup, hair, packing, and so much more.

Of course, snacks and beverages will be available.

 

Parents Night Out

Saturday, March 28

Save the date to join the Knockout officers and board members for a fun night of pre-Easter activities.

 

IASPHA Spring Show

April 10-11

Our first academy show of the year!!

 

Knollwood Spring Show

May 15-17

Knollwood’s 2026 in-barn show season starts here!

 

See you at the barn, and the banquet!