To start off the week, we’d like to congratulate Knollwood Kid Richie on his selection for the TEAM USA Saddleseat team which will represent us at the World Cup in 2024.

Last weekend, Richie and Scott traveled to William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri for the trials. Riders from all over the country were selected to the trials for both a three gaited and a five gaited team.

Trialists drew for horses from among the horses used in the equestrian science program at the university. Prospective team members are evaluated on their ability to get on a horse unknown to them and to guide them through railwork and patterns.

Some of the horses are great at patterns, and others are less educated or cooperative about the intricacies of the work.

Richie was a horse in his former life, and is known for his ability to figure out horses’ minds pretty quickly. Because of this, he’s a sought after catch rider for other trainers, and has had great success showing in a wide variety of divisions, including riding a road pony.

Richie finished the event with the highest scores in all three phases of the trial, and will be representing the US in Parys, South Africa next December.

We couldn’t be more proud of this young man who became a Knollwood Kid after watching his sister Tori’s lessons.

Richie became a student of horses and of the sport at a young age, and enjoyed a successful academy career. Following that, he was paired with the legendary Ms Mheirry Mac, and the team were reserve national champions in the UPHA 10 and Under Walk Trot Challenge Cup final.

Tink is now retired at Knollwood, and still gets to enjoy time spent with her Richie.

Richie showed Royal Tryst in 13 and under equitation, and won the World’s Championship of Junior Equitation with the princess. He then showed legendary Brookhill's Passion Punch to great success in senior equitation before the Dallens purchased Doc, officially known as Reedann's Dark Mystery.

Along the way, Richie has spent time listening, watching, and working. He rides any horse he can, and has become a true horseman.

Congratulations, Richie!

'tis the season of saving!

From now through December 31, you can purchase any amount of enrollment and receive 10% off when you use promo code HOLIDAY2024 on our website.

Of course, your instructor or admin is always happy to help if you find the website a little clunky.

Remember, the Knockout holiday party is coming up this Saturday at 6:00 PM. The new scavenger hunt is ready to go, the pizza is ordered, and candidates are finishing their campaign speeches.

We can hardly wait to celebrate with the Knockouts and their parents!

A favorite ballot from the past, and it's still true.

Speaking of campaign speeches, please don’t forget to pay your Knockout dues and vote for the 2023 School Horse of the Year. According to exit polling, it looks like a really tight race.

Every vote counts, so be sure to join the race!

For those of you who are still looking for a present for your rider, it’s the time of the year when a riding vest is perfect attire for lessons. These vests are warm and slim fitting so instructors can monitor a rider’s posture while riding. Big fluffy jackets make it hard to see back position, so we recommend vests in the arena. Riders can leave their jackets in the center ring seating area.

Here’s a link to a fun kids vest from Dover. If you want to see it in person before purchasing, Dover has a store in Germantown.

Team Knollwood will be taking Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, and New Years Day off from lessons.

Enrolled students will be credited for these missed lessons.

For those of you looking ahead:

Private Shopping Night

Friday January 5

7 PM to 9 PM

Knollwood private shopping event with Midwest Saddleseat Consignment.

In House Academy Clothing Sale

February 10

11:00 AM

Academy riders, please bring your outgrown show clothes to sell to other team members. Please have your items tagged with your name, contact info, and price to the barn by Wednesday. February 7.

Jelly Bean Jods orders

February 15 – 28

We’re ordering Jelly Bean jods in navy with tan knee patches and embroidered logo.

We’ll have size samples to get the perfect fit. These jods are perfect for Knollwood shows.

Academy Show Tailor Appointments

February 24

9:30 AM

Trish is coming to measure for vests and shirts.

If you’re looking to create a new academy look for 2024, Trish will help you look your best. We’ll book half hour appointments for measuring on the 24^th.

Trish can also do fantastic alterations if last year’s clothing needs some adjusting.

Academy Prep Night

March 23

6:00 PM

All of our 2024 academy riders are invited to attend a fun event where we’ll show you how to create a perfect horse show bun, and how to use makeup to make your rider look her best for her age.

As an added bonus, Scott is joining us to show everyone how to create the perfect tie knot for small people.

See you at the barn!