Here at World Headquarters, Team Knollwood is ready to look back fondly on 2025, the year that was.

Hard Work Paid Off

We applaud the hard work that went in to achieve show ring successes, and even greatness during the year.  Not all the big achievements were rewarded with primary colored ribbons, but were rewarded with satisfaction of goals achieved, lessons learned, and progress made for both riders and their horses.

Beginnings

We appreciate all the beginnings by Team Knollwood in 2025. Our two walk-trot equitation riders, Averie and Maddie, made their debuts in the show horse world, Leighton moved up from walk and trot into the 13 and under equitation world, and Brooklyn moved into the immensely competitive world of senior equitation.

Senior Equitation Excellence

Maiya, Natalie, Richie, Shaye, and Sophie enjoyed successful years in the senior equitation arena. 

This incredibly talented group of riders made their mark on the equitation world this year. They made patterns look easy and railwork so smooth that you'd think anyone could hop on their horses and ride.

In a superbly deep year of senior equitation, the Knollwood Kids were always in the mix for the top ribbons.

Grownups Have More Fun

Our adults may have had more fun than the junior exhibitors.  You could see the experienced Knollwood Kid posse having a grand time at shows. Jane, Julie, Kerry, Margit, Tancy, and Tatum cheer on everyone, and show their horses successfully in the always deep adult division.

They know how to have fun.

What A Finish 

While two of our super successful riders aged out on top at  the Royal, we know that Natalie and Richie won’t be strangers to the horse show world.

Our academy team achieved wonderful progress this season as well. From our maiden riders to our champs at Monarch, we couldn’t be more proud.

It's About Sportsmanship

Of course, ribbons are but one part of the horse showing life.

This season showcased sportsmanship by many riders. Richie struggled with Tyler’s soundness issues, while Lady became ill after Madison.

Our academy riders have started a new tradition of slapping hands of the winner of their pattern classes, regardless of barn affiliation, and it’s catching on.

Horse Friendships Last 

Horse friends are for life.

These ladies showed together as junior exhibitors, and are still involved in the horse world.

We value these friendships in good times and in tough ones.

The past is just that.

We’re looking forward to great things in 2026.

SSSHHHH!

Anyone who knows Knollwood knows how proud we are of our academy program.

We have exciting news about some of our academy stars moving into the horse show world, and will announce the new teams after their photo shoots with Kim of Wee Irish Photography.

We can hardly wait.

Newest Adult Amateurs

Natalie and Richie may have aged out at the Royal, but once you’re a Knollwood Kid, you’re always a Knollwood Kid.

Natalie is finishing her Knollwood internship this summer and will be off to college. Richie continues to study at Butler University, and makes trips home when he can.

Doc is ready and waiting for his next adventure with his favorite gentleman.

Izzy’s Therapy Business Continues Into 2026

Izzy loves all her people and is always eager to help anyone who could use a dog in their lap. If your lap isn’t available, Izzy will stand next to you and lean in. Aggressively.

Izzy is our daily reminder that her mentor Hazel Belle Boxer Matton, who has a brick on the Saddlebred Walk of Fame in Lexington, was a great teacher, and is always with us.

Life Lessons Continue

Horses are the best at teaching us lessons we didn’t know we needed. Although, on occasion, they WILL state the obvious.

Whether it’s a tiny tot rider on Sparky, an academy rider on Sport, an equitation superstar on their own horse, or Scott working one of his mares, a lesson will be taught.

We’re fortunate to have our wonderful lesson horses who teach patience, strength, gentleness, consistency, and persistence on a daily basis.

Richmond and Molly’s Love Story Goes On

Instructor Molly is Richmond’s favorite person. They enjoy long conversations that no one else can understand, and Richmond spends many an hour on Molly’s shoulders while she makes phone calls and catches up on scheduling.

Payton is Coming Back

Many of you will remember Knollwood Kid Payton Duerr, who was an equitation star, even finishing as the Reserve Grand Champion of Champions of Senior Equitation in 2024.

She’s spent some time working at Glendale Stables in Missouri, and is returning to Knollwood as an Assistant Trainer.

We're thrilled to welcome Payton to our staff. She brings her own unique perspective from her equitation successes.

What’s Coming Up?

Shopping Night

Friday, January 9

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Academy and show riders are invited to our private shopping night. Jen from Midwest Saddleseat Consignment will welcome Knollwood riders at the Hilton Garden Inn at Pabst Farms.  Carol and Ann will be there to help with selection.

Banquet Reservations Due January 10

Invitations to our January 31 banquet went out in the mail the week of Christmas.  Please be sure to return your reply card with your payment and seating choices in the school barn by January 10.

Knollwood Parent Meeting

Saturday, January 17

10:00 AM

All parents are welcome to join our get together to see how you can help the Knockouts in 2026. The club is looking for parents to assist with Knollwood shows and other club events.

It’s your chance to work with a great group of horse kids!

Knollwood Banquet

Saturday, January 31

You don’t want to miss our annual banquet celebrating all things Knollwood.  The gala offers social time, a buffet dinner, awards, speeches, a slide show, and dancing.

Invitations are out to all current Knockout members. If you didn’t receive one, please contact your instructor or admin.

Not currently a member? We’d love to have you. Please talk to your instructor or admin to join the fun today.

See you soon at the barn.