You’ll often hear our instructors talking about the unique personalities of different lesson horses, and that your child is learning valuable lessons for life. Your rider will indeed meet people just like the lesson horses that are teaching them not only how to ride, but how to deal with their different outlooks. Read on to hear about some of our favorite characters…

 

Hugo

Your Lazy Co-Worker

You know the guy. He nods off at his desk, misses calls, and always talks about how busy and tired he is.

Behold Hugo. Born at Knollwood, and born to be a lesson horse.

He’s perfect. He reminds each and every rider that he’d rather have been born a slug.

Yet, he’s safe as can be, has a beginner trot to die for, and quite frankly, even RIchimond the yellow cat could sit his trot.

His valuable lessons include:

·         Never give up. If you follow through long enough and firm enough, you’ll get whatever you’re asking for.

·         Lazy can be overcome with hard work.

·         Lazy isn’t about everything. If you’ve ever played games on Hugo, you know that there’s speed in there. You just have to work to get it.

·         Lazy frequently equals smart. Hugo is a pattern master if you refuse to give in.   Did you ever think how hard it must be to move that slowly?

Bilbo

The “There Must be an Easier Way to Do This’ guy

You know this one. He argues about how to do everything as he complains about being overworked and underpaid.

Don’t get us wrong, we all love Bilbo, and he provides countless hours of entertainment to all the instructors.

Bilbo dreams of cutting lessons short when he stops at the chute gate and stares longingly up the chute.

He makes a lot of eye contact with the instructor running his lesson, especially if it’s Molly. He keeps close eyes on Molly so he can poop at the farthest corner to make her travel to clean up after him.

Always looking and trying to find a moment to rest, slow up, or make that circle a little smaller.

His important lessons:

·         Keep your reins short. You never know when his head may come up and re-shape your circle.

·         Watch his adorable fuzzy ears. Their attached to his very active brain.

·         If you’re riding with Molly, there WILL be poop breaks.

 

 

Fred

The Secretly Competitive Co-Worker

To look at him, you’d think that Fred was just another slightly overweight middle aged man. He does his day in,  day out job fantastically well. He’s taught countless Knollwood Kids how to walk and trot, taught them circles and serpentines, and emergency dismounts.

You’ll get a glmpse of secret Fred when Honey Bee is in the arena. He speeds up and tries to keep up with the Hackney. She, of course, completely ignores him.

Truly competitive Fred comes out when its time for games on horseback. He thinks relay games are enjoyable, but he can’t contain himself when it’s time for ‘Steal the Crop,’ or the latest variation, “Steal the Carrot.’

This walk trot superstar just can’t hold it in, and frequently canters. The experienced riders who have experienced this have all said, ‘It’s really not that bad.’

Whup, Fred.

The lessons of Fred:

·         Like people, horses often have hidden competitive streaks

·         Be ready for anything

·         Even the steadiest of horses and people like to have fun on the job

Pony Frank

 

The Guy Who Watches Everyone Work

You know the guy.

He watches everyone work, and has an opinion on everyone. Oh, and he has to stop working to watch.

Our legendary pony is a master watcher.

Pony Frank can be trusted with the smallest of riders, and is a small box of perfection. If he sees something interesting, he’ll stop and watch. He doesn’t stop fast, or start up again quickly, he just watches.

He especially likes to watch Scott’s ‘discussions’ with show horses who don’t always agree with Mr Matton’s plans for the moment. Of course, he silently passes judgement.

Pony Frank’s life lessons:

·         Communication is key. If you keep the pony brain occupied, he’s much less likely to stop and enjoy the view.

·         Life isn’t a spectator sport.

Earl

The Guy Who Hates Change

Everyone loves Earl. Especially instructor Court.

However, he is your future co-worker who dislikes change, and rages against it.

When he first came, Earl lived in the stall currently occupied by Mulligan. He has never forgotten this fact.

A few months later, we needed  a red box stall for a show horse, so Mulligan moved to Earl’s box stall.

Fast forward a year or so, and Earl still has days when he trots into Mullligan’s current stall.

Earl’s unique lessons:

·         Embrace change. You’ll meet new people or horses. Earl is now good friends with next door neighbor Sherman.

·         You’ll learn things!

Murphy

The dramatic one.

You’ve all met this fella.

If something happens, they ignore the facts and start telling their version of events and make it bigger each time they tell the story. Murphy would be on social media all the time.

In lessons, he teaches riders to chill out and reassure the runaway brain that, in fact, the screen door is not a killer. Neither is the show barn.

Did you ever wonder why he’s better outside? There’s too much going on out there to obsess on any one thing.

Murphy’s lessons:

·         Drama begets drama. If you answer drama with short, sharp responses, the instability escalates. When you answer it with cool, calm, slow firmness, you become the drama antidote and it disappears.

·         Most dramatic creatures aren’t the most intelligent, so be slow and give them a chance to process the message.

When you give your child the opportunity to spend time with horses, you give them so much more than physically technical riding lessons. Knollwood Kids learn communication, problem solving, empathy, respect, and the lesson of never giving up.  These are just a few of the life lessons imparted by our unbelievable string of lesson horses and our talented instructors who translate and teach the knowledge.

What’s Coming Up?

Bring a Friend Day

5:00

This Saturday

It’s a sell out.

Participants, please be sure to have a signed, completed release form for your friend. No rider can get on a horse without a release form signed by a parent.

St Louis Charity Horse Show

September 24-27

National Equestrian Center

The show horses are heading to St Louis for a favorite show. In addition to being a hospitality plus show, it features 2 pleasure equitation finals, the ASHBA National Championship for riders 17 and under, and the Saddle and Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion Finals. The medallion features a 13 and under division in addition to the final for riders aged 14-17.

We’ll update webcast info shortly.

 

 

UPHA Chapter 10 Fall Show

October 4-5

Beyond Stable Farm

20 Academy stars are heading to Woodstock for the Octoberfest themed horse show. We’re showing in the big covered outdoor arena, and we’d love a fan club!

 

Mid America Mane Event

October 15-18

Illinois State Fairgrounds

The show team is heading back to a favorite arena for the Mane Event show. Home to the first of the ‘Big Three’ equitation finals, the show attracts riders from all over the country.

We’ll update webcast info when it’s available.

Knollwood Fall Show

October 17-19

Can you believe it’s time for our final celebration of the in-barn season?

We’re planning on showing outside Saturday and Sunday after  an indoor pattern night on Friday.

It takes many hands to put on event of this magnitude, and you can support in many ways.

Gift basket donation lists are up in the school barn lounge. Please check out and donate the next time you’re at the farm.

Sign up genius is up for the concession stand and associated activities. We are always looking for hands-on help here. Please???

You can sign up here.

 

Horses' Day Off

Monday, October 20

We will not be holding lessons, and lessons will be credited to your account.

 

IASPHA Fall Show

October 25-26

Beyond Stable Farm

Our final academy season of 2025!

Please come and cheer us on as we complete a successful academy season. We’ll be showing in the indoor arena.

 

Throughout December

Enrollment meetings

Academy show riders will meet with their instructors to plan 2026, and instructors will touch base with all families to confirm plans and new policies for 2026, too.

 

 

 

 

See you soon at the barn, or at the in-gate.

Team Knollwood just returned from the Monarch Show Series National Championship in Springfield, Illinois. The show is run by a terrific team that is organized, friendly, and welcoming to all competitors. The Monarch show series allows riders to love their horses who aren’t going to the World’s Championship in Louisville. They qualify throughout the year at smaller shows, and gather in the beautiful arena at the Illinois State Fairgrounds to celebrate their accomplishments.

The Monarch group welcomes saddlebreds as well as horses who compete  in open ‘all breed’ classes. Their full compliment of classes even includes ranch riding.

The academy classes on Saturday and Sunday are large, and super competitive.

Did we mention that the ribbons are bigger than Louisville’s?

Monarch is also home to two pleasure equitation national finals.

The Pleasure Equitation Olympics started the equitation calendar on Friday.  In their first season showing at the canter, Leighton and Teddy were the silver medalists in the junior division.

Knollwood Kid Maiya was the silver medalist in the senior division riding Riddle

 

 

These finals were well stocked with talented riders who showed like pros both on the rail and in workouts.

Saturday brought the UPHA Pleasure Challenge Cup National Final, which is also split into age divisions.

In a repeat of the Olympics, Leighton and Teddy finished reserve champion in the junior division.

Natalie and Garfield finished reserve national champion in the senior division.

This final is run by the trainers organization, so the judging is a little different than the other finals. In the UPHA finals, 60% of the score is based on showmanship, and 40% is on the pattern. The other finals are 50/50.

 

 

Mia won the equitation qualifier at the show and finished reserve in the championship. Barnmate Maiya won the championship

These two grew up together at Knollwood and are both competing at the highest level now.

The Monarch show recognizes the power of kids growing up with horses, and with people competing in any way they can.

Many of the top equitation riders had ridden with the same barn that they started riding with. Leighton, Mia, Maiya, and Sophie all started their lessons with us, and enjoyed the process. Knollwood Kid Natalie may not have started her lessons at 2800 Oakwood Road, but she has embraced the unique program at Knollwood.

We are fortunate to be in an area with fabulous academy programs feeding into their show barns. In fact, the rider who won both of the junior finals started her lessons at Highland Ridge and just started her show horse career with them this year. What a way to start!

 

 

 

Seven Knollwood academy riders attended Monarch this year, and showed like rockstars.

Thea, who’s off to Stanford to start college this week, finished first or second in all of her adult division classes. We’ll miss her while she becomes even more brilliant, if that’s possible.

Jules, Samara, and Sophia showed in the tough 14-17 divisions while Charlotte, Dilly, and Jilly were fierce contenders in the 13 and under classes.

 

 

Jilly, Dilly, and Charlotte finished first, second, and third in their equitation championship to finish the show!

Look for these up and coming riders as they continue their educations.

We love the process.

 

 

If you think you might be interested in joining our academy show team for 2026, please join us on Saturday, November 8 for a parent meeting. You’ll learn about riding requirements, schedules, clothing, and the financials of showing. We ask that this be an ‘adult only’ meeting since we will be discussing fees. We’ll host a follow up meeting later in the month.

 

The Knollwood community recently sent a $550 donation to Saddlebred Rescue in memory of Knollwood Kid Hanna. Thanks to everyone who donated.

 

 

What's Coming Up?

Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival

September 11-14

New Holland Pavilion, Madison

Show horses are all set up in Madison, just waiting for the show to start tomorrow.

The show focuses on young horses, but also hosts a full schedule of performance horse classes.

 

Adopt A Street

September 13

1:00 PM

The Knockouts' fall service project is coming up fast!

There’s still time to join the club as they clean up Oakwood and Nagawicka Roads. You can sign up in the school barn lounge.

 

Bring a Friend Day

September 20

5:00 PM

Knollwood Kids, here’s your chance to show a friend all the things you love about horses and riding.

For only $50, you can serve as a helper for your friend from school, church, or ??

You can sign up with your instructor or admin in the school barn lounge.

 

St. Louis National Horse Show

September 24-27

National Equestrian Center

It’s a really competitive show, and Team Knollwood will be there with numbers.

The show is home to two more pleasure equitation finals, the ASHBA National Championship, and the Saddle and Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion Final in both the junior and senior divisions.

 

Photo Shoots With Collective Grace

September 28

(Rain Date November 2)

 Here's your chance to have a mini photo shoot at Knollwood. Kim and Karina will be there to capture memories with a horse, or without if you prefer.

You can sign up here.

 

UPHA Fall Show

October 3-4

Beyond Stable Farm

Our academy team is showing outside one more time this summer. Come cheer us on in the big outdoor arena at Beyond Stable Farm.

 

 

 

Mane Event Horse Show

October 15-18

Illinois State Fairgrounds

It’s a great show, and the first of the ‘Big 3’ equitation finals that make up the Triple Crown of Equitation.

Team Knollwood will be there for all the adventures.

 

 

Raffle Basket Donations Due

October 15

Be sure to have your donations in for the fall gift baskets!

 

Knollwood Fall Show

October 17-19

Our final in-barn show of 2025 is coming up. Come and enjoy the weekend celebration of our academy program.

IASPHA Fall Show

October 24-26

Beyond Stable Farm

Please join us for our last academy show of the season!

 

 

UPHA National Championship American Royal Horse Show

November 10-15

National championships, the UPHA Challenge Cup finals, and the USEF Medal final, the Royal has it all.

 

 

 

See you soon at the barn or at the in-gate.

Somehow, Knollwood summer 2025 blew by. We loved the long sunny days at the barn, loved hours with horses and friends at shows, and making memories that we’ll always cherish.

With everyone heading back, we’d like to recognize the seven Knollwood Kids who graduated high school last spring. They’re on their way to new adventures at college this fall.

These are seven very different individuals. Some are stars in the academy division and have helped to keep the lesson program growing and welcoming. Some dabbled in the show horse world, one of them was an instructor while still in high school, some have been super involved in the Knockouts, some have horses in their families for generations, and some have excelled to the top of the show horse world while balancing challenging school and work.

They are all exceptional people, and we will miss them while they expand their worlds.

Here, in no particular order is Knollwood’s college class.

Hannah grew up a Knollwood Kid. She rode with us and showed in the academy division with great success.

Smily Hannah has been a big part of pattern camps, serving as a counselor to the many up and coming riders learning how to show.

Hannah graduated from Arrowhead and is attending the University of Wisconsin.  She’s interested in a career in the medical field and is currently looking at the physician assistant track.

 

 

 

 

Savannah has ridden at Knollwood since she was 10 years old and rode Picasso in her first show.

She has spent hours at the barn, riding, working, and most importantly, making friends. Savannah says, ‘Knollwood has been the place to go whenever other parts of my life became too overwhelming, as there is always someone of some horse that is there to help you through.’

Mom Karen says, ‘Let them ride. They will learn so much more than you think. It develops strength mentally and physically, teaches patience, perseverance, and compassion along with confidence.’

Savannah is attending St Lawrence University, and has plane to become a dermatologist.

 

 

 

Adrienne has Knollwood credentials like no other.

She became a Knollwood Kid at age 10, and showed Fred at her first Knollwood show. She wants us all to know that ‘back in the day,’ riders showed in sweater vests and ties.

Adrienne was a quick learner and became a fixture of busy Knollwood Saturdays. She says that Saturdays were where she fell in love with the Knollwood community.

From being a helper, Adrienne advanced to camp counseling, going to academy shows as a tech, and eventually became an instructor herself. In her spare time, Adrienne also ran the Knockouts for two years. We’re not sure she ever slept.

Favorite memories for Adrienne include pattern camps and showing horses with friends. Camp let her ‘foster new connections and friendships with people I’m still close to today. ‘Everyday was filled with so much learning, laughter, and usually a sleepover at some point during the week.’

Her advice to future Knollwood Kids?

Be grateful. Thanks, Mom and Dad.

For your parents, instructors, helpers, and horses most especially. Knollwood is an incredible place and not recognizing the amazing opportunities your have there, that not everyone is able to have, is a trait that only fosters negativity and cliques. Knollwood is lucky to have the most amazing horses as well, it’s important to appreciate the work they do with the great attitude they do it with and take the time to show them that through caring for them. Take time to recognize how lucky you are – no matter what level you’re at. Life ‘s a lot more fun if we all practice gratitude and inclusivity to everyone who comes through those barn doors.

Adrienne graduated from DSHA and is attending the CU Boulder. She’s taking lots of different classes to decide what she’d like to do after school.

 

 

 

Thea took her first lesson at Knollwood when she was six, after her family relocated to Wisconsin. Carol gave the family a tour of the farm, and in Thea’s words, ‘The rest is history.’

Thea and her sister Morgan rode on Saturdays on the best lesson horses in the world. Thea remembers that she showed the late, great Willy in her first barn show.

Thea became a Saturday helper and has never left. She’s been the Saturday barn manager for years, and we feel bad for Olivia who’s stepping into Thea’s role. She is an amazing people and horse manager.

Thea has been very involved in the Knockouts and even served as president for two years with Adrienne.  Under their leadership, membership increased, shows grew, and parents’ night out events became a staple for Knollwood Kids.

Thea’s favorite Knollwood memories are the Saturday 3:30 group, pattern camps, horse shows, and Knockout events.

She adds, ‘Knollwood means a lot to me. The barn has been fundamental in my development through countless lessons in the saddle and working with people and horses through a variety of situations. The barn has a great community that I’ve loved being a part of, especially the Knollwood Knockouts and the friends I’ve been able to connect with.’

Mom Amy adds, ‘Knollwood has been an integral part of our family life. Thea has gained a forever barn family, an impressive skill set from barn managing, and a lifetime love of horses.’

Thea is headed to Stanford University and is on the veterinary path to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

 

Tatum is a third generation Knollwood rider.

Her grandma Susan showed some wonderful horses in the western division, including the legendary CH In the Zone, known and loved as Rowdy.

Her aunt, Kerry is a well-known amateur exhibitor. Known for showing a horse to their best advantage, she’d ridden some great ones from Midtown Man to RIverdream’s Masquerade.

Tatum has shown some really fun horses, including Holiday Kisses and Roselane’s First in Line.

Tatum started her riding life at Knollwood when she was 6 years old. She showed Sparky at her first Knollwood show.

Tatum shares that her biggest riding challenge has been riding without stirrups. She has looong legs and says that keeping her balance has been a ‘challenge all its own.’

Her favorite memories include learning to canter and realizing how much fun it was, the energy and excitement of show days, and the little victories in lessons when something finally clicks.

Tatum adds, ‘Because of the people and the horses, Knollwood has always been more than a barn. It’s a community where you’re supported, challenged, and celebrated. The trainers push you to be your best, and the friendships I’ve made here mean so much.

Her mom’s advice? ‘Take the lessons you have learned from riding and carry them with you to your new adventures in college.’

Tatum is headed to Marquette University where she’s majoring in Corporate Communications and minoring in Sports Communications. She hopes to work for a major league sports team.

 

 

Knollwood Kid Tess arrived at only 5 years of age and showed Willy in her first show.

Tess came up through our academy program and graduated to the show horse world a few years ago. She’s currently showing the ever-charismatic Undulata’s Crystal Illusionist, known to all his Knollwood fans as Eli.

Tess says that her best memory was helping at camps with her friends. ‘Although the days were sometimes long and hard, it was so rewarding to see the campers understand and fall in love with horses just like I did! And I got to spend hours with my riding friends who are the best in the world.’

Mom Piper appreciates what Knollwood did for Tess, ‘It’s made her a stronger (physically and mentally) person. Life is not always easy and knowing you can manage a half-ton beast- but a loveable one is a plus.’

Tess sums it up, ’Knollwood has meant everything. It has been such an important part of my life since I started. It truly is a community who loves and respects each other through thick and thin.  Some of my hardest times have made just that much better by people at the barn.’

Tess is at the University of Kentucky, studying Communications.

She’s taking the first year to explore all the choices available.  Tess adds, ‘Ill be surrounded by horses whatever I choose to do!’

 

 

 

Richie followed his older sister Tori into lessons. He says ‘I was dragged out to watch my sister Victoria ride in group lessons for a couple of years, and I decided that if I was going to be coming along anyways, I wanted to give riding a shot. I started in group lessons when I was seven, and the rest is history.'  He notes that his first show horse at Knollwood was Forest.

Richie started showing academy at 8 years of age, and he’s never stopped.

His family purchased the legendary CH Miss Mheirry Mac for Richie to show in the 10 and under walk and trot equitation world. This team finished reserve national champs in their first year of competition. She is currently retired at Knollwood and will remain a member of the Dallen family for the rest of her days.

Richie has become a horseman and has won countless classes. He’s won the Junior Worlds Grand Championship of equitation for riders 13 and under in 2021 and finished his Freedom Hall junior exhibitor career in 2025 with a Worlds Championship in his age division and a reserve Word’s Grand Championship in senior equitation.

This student of the sport has become an accomplished rider of performance horses as well, having campaigned the challenging and talented Showdown for the last few years.

With his wide-ranging skills, Richie is a sought-after catch rider as well. At Louisville a few weeks ago, he had the privilege of showing a gaited pleasure horse for trainers in North Carolina.

Richie traveled to South Africa last year with Team USA for the World Cup competition, too.

Richie’s favorite Knollwood memories? ‘The small moments. The extra bit of time you spend with your horse after the lesson is something that I will always cherish and remember, because at the end of the day, it’s all about the horse.’

Mom Tracy says, ‘Horses have thrown Richie headfirst into experientially learning lessons in life. I’d like to refer to these lessons as the 4R’s: Respect, Responsibility, and Resourcefulness.  Kids who immerse themselves in the horse world will quickly be exposed to all aspects of life in the real world and the character-building decisions that ultimately follow -good and bad, beauty and temptation, jubilation and heartbreak. Through these trials and with the foundations of the 4R’s, horses and the horse world have forged him into a young man of resilience, humility, integrity, and compassion.’

As I’m sure Scott and Carol will attest, great horses are not born great, but are developed through disciplined and continued training, and so are humans. Parents must provide firm and predictable boundaries so that when the child is faced with the crucible decisions, they have the tools necessary to choose the 4^th R, to do the right thing.

Taking the hard road in the horse world has been the true gift, not the ribbons or titles. The lessons Richie learned through horses have shaped who he is. It has opened doors we could never have imagined, and new gifts continue to be revealed as he moves on his great new adventures.’

Richie is attending Butler University and is studying Finance.  While there are many opportunities in the financial sector, Richie is excited to explore, narrow down his options, and 'find a job I love.'

 

We wish these hard-working, accomplished Knollwood kids all the best as they head to new adventures.

See you in the arena at Thanksgiving!

 

 

 

What’s Coming Up?

Monarch Series National Championship

September 2-7

Illinois State Fairgrounds

Team Knollwood is there for a great horse show, and two pleasure equitation national finals. You can watch all the action here.

Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival

September 11-14

New Holland Pavillion, Madison

Knollwood’s show horses are heading to Madison that celebrates young saddlebreds. It’s also a heck of a show for performance horses, and it’s a short ride to Madison!

Street Clean Up

September 13

1:00

Knockouts, be sure to sign up to join your friends for our fall service project. We’ll be cleaning up Oakwood and Nagawicka Roads for the fall.

A kind parent has donated a 12:30 lunch from Jersey Mike's for all participants! Please sign up for the event by Wednesday, September 10 so we can place our food order!

Bring a Friend Day

Saturday, September 20

6:00

Knollwood Kids, here’s your chance to act as a helper for a friend or relative. For only $50, you can show your friend why you love horses so much.

Participants must be at least 10 years of age, or be an academy show rider.  They must be able to tack horse and take care of him after the class, too.

You can sign up in the school barn lounge with your instructor or admin. Payment is required to hold your spot.

St Louis National Horse Show

September 24-27

National Equestrian Center

St Louis, MO

One of everyone’s favorite shows, St Louis is a big friendly show that also hosts two more Pleasure Equitation finals.

UPHA Fall Show

October 4-5

Woodstock, IL

Our academy stars are heading to the big outdoor arena at Beyond Stable Farm for a wonderful Fall weekend of showing. Many of our newest riders are showing for the second time this weekend. Please come and cheer them on!

 

Mid America Mane Event

October 15-18

Illinois State Fairgrounds

Home to the first of the ‘Big Three’ finals, Mane Event is a fall tradition. Riders come from far and near to compete in the Good Hands, the oldest of the finals included in the Triple Crown of Saddleseat equitation.

Held in the beautiful coliseum, the show is fantastic. We’ll update with webcasting info when it becomes available.

Knollwood Fall Show

October 17-19

The grand finale of our in-barn season.

We’re looking forward to a big show celebrating our academy riders.

The fall show features the finals of the Knollwood Challenge in two divisions.

Who will ride away with the traveling trophy, and the custom shirt from deRegnaucourt?

 

 

See you soon at the barn, or at the ingate!

Photo by Collective Grace

 

 

Our Three Day Celebration Was a Blast

While Knollwood’s show horses were having a heck of a show in Louisville, the home team celebrated our lesson program for three days.

With a record number of riders competing in pattern classes, our Friday evening indoor performance was a deep one.

Each rider who participated on Friday night had spent weeks practicing a pattern for the performance. We hosted classes for both walk trot and walk trot canter riders, split into age groups.

Here at Knollwood, we love teaching patterns. They help riders even at a young age learn to think like a horse, and learn patience and confidence. Riders learn to compete in the arena with just their horse and their skills. You can just about see the confidence grow as the pattern goes on.

Friday night also features qualifiers for the Knollwood Challenge. The program is based on national equitation finals from the show horse world.

Riders compete in a qualifier where they complete railwork and perform a pre-determined pattern. Our walk and trot qualifiers trot an exverted figure eight while the walk trot and canter riders trot an inverted figure eight.

The top 2 placings in each qualifier will compete in the final held at the October show, and are eliminated from future competition in the qualifiers.

The winner of the final will take possession of a beautiful traveling trophy for the year, and wins a custom show shirt from deRegnaucourt, the tailor who creates suits for many of our show barn riders.

Photo by Collective Grace 

Saturday morning brought outdoor competition for our walk trot and canter riders as well as our walk and trot riders aged 11 and up.

The arena had recovered well from the monsoons ten days earlier, and was ready to showcase our riders.

Photo by Collective Grace

Saturday morning featured five sections of 11 and over walk trot and canter horsemanship and equitation as well as a division of 10 and under riders. The riders looked terrific in the spacious arena, and used the arena as only Knollwood Kids can.

Two divisions of 11 and over walk and trot riders took over the arena in the afternoon. These riders were well prepared, and enjoyed the open air and all the room to use the arena like pros.

Judging these classes was not an easy task.

Photo by Collective Grace

Sunday performances bring a little different vibe. Our 10 and under walk trot riders often arrive with bigger groups of fans, and the excitement is palpable.

The weather was perfect for horse showing, and Pam had the show office running smoothly while helping with number magnets and questions of all kinds.

Photo by Collective Grace

The classes were wonderful. Our youngest riders have been learning since the spring show, and their hard work shone as they made good use of the space in the small outdoor arena. Diagonals were almost all correct, which is hard to do with all the excitement of a horse show.

Their instructors were really impressed.

Photo by Collective Grace

Our riders rode really well. Most of all, we’re grateful for all the good sportsmanship we saw throughout the weekend.

Riders thanked their horses, congratulated their friends in the line up, helped other riders, cheered for everyone on the rail, and were great role models for the riders younger than them.

As we always say, ‘It’s not the ribbon, it’s the ride.’

We have many, many people to thank.

Knollwood families make it possible to put on an event of this size. Thank you to all the parents and kids who donated their time and talents to make the weekend possible.

Melissa and Kristy were co-leads for the weekend.

Jackie was in charge of the raffle baskets.

Matt, Jade, and Ben grilled the weekend away to feed the hungry crowds.

Kim Irish of Collective Grace Photography took photos all weekend. You can view proofs and order pics here.

Wendy was our announcer both Saturday and Sunday.

Once again, the legendary personal assistants kept the riders and horses happy. Tack was adjusted just so, confidence was boosted, and riders learned all about horse shows.

These experienced show riders make wonderful mentors, and help create the next wave of Knollwood Kids. We couldn't do it without them.

Photo by Collective Grace

Most of all, we thank our lesson horses. They come in all shapes and sizes, both pretty and interesting looking. Best of all, they're all beautiful on the inside.

They carried both experienced riders and newbies with grace.

We are beyond grateful for each and every one of them.

What’s Coming Up?

Fall Knollwood Show Entries are Due September 1

The show is coming up fast on October 17-19, and we need to get our shirt order in the works. Please contact your instructor to join the fun!

Monarch Show Series National Championship Horse Show

September 3-7

Illinois State Fairgrounds

It’s pleasure equitation finals time! Monarch hosts the Pleasure Equitation Olympics and the UPHA Pleasure Challenge Cup National Finals.

Team Knollwood will be there in the thick of the competition!

 

Street Clean Up

September 13

Knockouts, please join us at 1:00 to clean up Oakwood and Nagawicka Roads for fall. We need some parent volunteers as well!

 

St Louis Charity Horse Show

September 24-27

National Equestrian Center

St Louis, MO

More Pleasure equitation finals await, in addition to quite a horse show.

St Louis hosts the Saddle and Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion finals for riders 13 and under and for those aged 14-17.

The show also features the ASHBA Pleasure Equitation National Championship for riders 17 and under.

It’s quite a horse show in all divisions, as well.

UPHA Chapter 10 Fall Show

October 4-5

Beyond Stable Farm

Our academy team is off to Woodstock to start their fall show season. It’s going to be a great show, with many of our first time show riders from Showcase showing again at Woodstock. It’s well worth the trip.

Knollwood Fall Show

October 17-19

Be sure to get your entry in by September 1 so you can join the fall celebration.

 

See you soon at the barn, or at the in-gate!

Hello everyone, Dexter here.

I recently earned my gold watch, and have fully retired from the lesson program, Since I’m no longer giving lessons, I enjoy spening time with fellow retirees Panic and Tink. I have also become the spokesperson for the 2025 Knollwood Summer Show.

 

I have participated in more Knollwood academy shows than I care to admit, and trust me, I know the ins and outs of show weekend. I’ve seen it all.

 

A Very Special Show

We’re dedicating our summer show to the memory of Hanna Agathen, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this summer.

Hanna grew up a Knollwood Kid, and started as a rider, helper, and academy star. She moved on to become an accomplished equitation rider, and even won some finals. She became a camp counselor and instructor in addition to starting a saddle cleaning business, and a photography one as well. Most of all, she was a cherished friend and kind soul, an she is missed terribly by her mom Abbie and brother Will.  She was an important part of team Knollwood, and left a hole that will never be filled.

Saddlebred Rescue was near and dear to her heart, and we’re accepting donations through show weekend. We’re collecting cash, or checks made out to Saddlebred Rescue. You can also donate here in her memory.

 

The Show Schedule

We have a 3 day show schedule.

Friday’s night performance starts at 6:00 PM, and features pattern classes for our riders who have started learning the art of patterns. We also hold qualifying classes for our Knollwood Challenge Final in October.

The challenge is based on equitation finals in the horse show world. Riders compete on the rail, and them complete a pre-set figure 8 pattern in their qualifiers, The top 2 riders in each qualifier will compete in the October final and are eliminated from further qualifying classes.

The winners of the final receive a beautiful traveling trophy, and a custom show shirt from deRegnaucourt, who makes many of the suits worn by our show ring stars.

The Saturday performance starts at 10:00 AM in our big outdoor arena. We showcase our walk, trot, and canter riders as well as our walk and trot riders who are 11 years of age and over.

Each rider will compete in a horsemanship class, and equitation qualifier, and an equitation championship.

Our Sunday show starts at 10:00 AM in our little outdoor ring. Our newest show stars are the focus of the day, with classes for our 10 and under walk and trot riders, our first time riders known as maiden riders, and our leadline stars.

 

What’s the Difference?

How is a horsemanship class different from an equitation class?

Horsemanship classes are judged on a rider’s ability to control their horse and show him to his best advantage. The rider should walk and trot when requested, should ride at a good speed for their horse, and should maintain good spacing through the class.

Equitation classes are judged on all of the above, as well as the position of the rider, and their ability to make riding look smooth and effortless.  Correct diagonals are important, as well the overall impression of ease.

Equitation championships require additional testing after railwork is complete. The work is chosen from a list of possibilities known to all the riders and instructors, and it’s based on the level of the riders in the class. The judge will determine which test or tests they'd like to see, ranging from a 2 point at the halt to trotting and cantering at certain spots on the rail.

 

Horse Assignments

Horse assignments for show weekends are an art. I know that many riders request the same horses, and not everyone can ride Fred or Bee.

The instructors review choices on the entry blanks, and we try to stay with the selections there. Keep in mind that each horse’s schedule must be appropriate for their age and physical condition, and that horses cannot compete in 3 sets of classes in a row. I’ve heard Ann talk about ‘fuzzy logic,’ and that horse usage must ‘add across and down.’

Riders who only enter 2 horses on their entry form may not fare well. We ask that you fill out the form completely.

All of my co-workers are talented teachers, so they’re all great for showing.

Sportsmanship

The instructors really don’t care about ribbons, and neither do we, the best lesson horses in the world. (Although I have to admit that victory passes are really a rush!)

Team Knollwood values the goal setting and lessons learned in the show ring more than ribbons.

More than anything, we prize sportsmanship. Riders in our program are taught early that learning is the most important part of showing horses. We focus on the process of learning to ride being the reward. It’s a long process, and it’s really hard at times.

Horses can be unpredictable, our attention spans can be unpredictable, and situations can be unpredictable. We can, however, learn to control our horse through unrelenting attention to the simple stuff, learning how horses think and react, and learning to control our own emotions, It’s hard.

So, we congratulate each other, cheer for each other and offer a pick-me-up when required.

We don’t complain about judges’ decisions or ribbons. We asked for the judge’s decisions, and we got it. Please move on.

Anyone who shows a horse is brave just for participating, and we applaud the riders you’re going to see this weekend. We couldn’t be more proud.

The Details

Riders should have picked up their show bag with their back number, show shirt, and personalized schedule. If you have not picked up yours, it’s ready in the school barn lounge,

Gift basket donations should be at the farm. Due date was yesterday.

Our concession stand is still looking for some volunteers. Please sign up here if you’d like to support the show and meet some really fun parents and kids.

We have two judges presiding this weekend.

Mia will be judging Friday night and Saturday. She’s been a Knollwood Kid since she was four years old, and was a star in our academy program as a kid. She’s currently a show barn employee, and shows all sorts of different horses for Scott and Carol. She’s a wealth of information.

Whitney will judge our smallest riders on Sunday. A former instructor with us, Whitney also grew up a Knollwood, and is looking forward to returning to the little outdoor arena to watch the youngest riders.

Wendy will be our announcer for both days.

Collective Grace will be our official show photographer. Known for their beautiful candids and artistry, we’re excited to welcome them to the world of horse show.  Galleries for proofs are already set up here.

 

I hope you have an enjoyable summer horse show weekend. I'll be watching out my window on Sunday.

Cheer your riders, love my co-workers, thank your helpers, compliment someone, and be kind.

Let’s make some Knollwood memories!