It’s Grand Finale Weekend!

We’re looking forward to celebrating our lesson program at our last in-barn show of the season.

Our three day show features 90 riders who have been hard at work improving their horsemanship skills. Spectators will watch the results of hours and hours of skill building. It’s going to be quite a weekend, and we’d like to introduce some of the teams who make this big event run like clockwork.

 

Knollwood Parents

They’re just the best.

Melissa, Kelly, and friends are leading teams to run concessions, gift baskets, and just about anything else you can think of. We’re grateful beyond belief for these parents who donate precious weekend hours to support the cause.

Show Judge Sydney Budzinski

A Knollwood Kid for life, Sydney started riding at age 7, and never really left. She is a national and world champion equitation title holder, and really enjoys her time with young riders. We’re thrilled that she’s sharing her expertise with us this weekend as the show judge.

Wendy the Announcer

Wendy is a recently retired high school teacher and choral director. She knows the horses and many of the riders, as she rides with us on Mondays after she helps us brush horses for the busiest lesson day of the week. She’s quite a singer in her own right, too!

 

Ringmasters

We have an assortment of volunteer ringmasters who keep the show arena safe. They’re accomplished riders, and are well acquainted with all the lesson horses, and plenty of the riders.

 

Personal Assistants

These are the Knollwood Kids you see taking care of horses and riders outside the ring. They prep horses in the morning, perform tack and rider changes, and basically make sure that horses and riders are comfortable. They calm nerves, cheer for all, and create the next generation of show stars. We couldn’t do it without them.

 

 

Pam the Concierge

Pam is our friendly face in the school barn lounge for walk trot Sunday. A professional horse show mom, and Wednesday night admin, Pam can tackle any horse show event. She’ll help straighten back numbers, calm jumpy nerves, and have the answer for anything that comes up.

Thanks to Versiti

We’re thrilled that Versiti, a leading blood donation service non-profit, is sponsoring the concession stand.

Adults, if you sign up for a blood donation appointment, your name will be entered into a drawing for a $250 gift certificate for Scintilla!

Instructors

We have an unbelievable staff of instructors. Some are part time, and some are full time, but they’re all here working towards the same goals.

We strive to develop strong riders who respect their horses and the process. Learning to show horses isn’t easy, and it doesn’t happen overnight. Our instructors are on the job to teach riding and so much more. Our riders learn the value of sportsmanship, patience, and mental organization.

We love goal setting. Confidence comes from achieving goals, not from ribbons. Most of our riders have goals for the weekend, and they all have the skills to achieve them.

We also remind our riders to be grateful for the opportunities they have. Not everyone is able to ride remarkable horses and learn all the lessons they teach.

The instructors are possibly more excited for the weekend than their students!

 

Our Horses

They’re just the best.

All of them are amazing, and several of them have achieved unicorn status.

They’re working pretty hard this weekend, and will enjoy Monday off.

Please come and enjoy the show.

You’ll admire the riders and the horses.

Show Ops Updates

Weather looks pretty iffy this weekend. 

     We'll move the show inside if the rain won’t stay away.

     Our show schedule remains the same.

     We’ll section off part of the arena for spectators to stand. Please feel free to bring chairs if you’d rather sit than stand.    

     The concession stand will move to just inside the show barn.

Our neighbors at the Kettle Moraine Curling Club are hosting events this weekend, so their parking lot will not be available to us.

We do NOT have a show photographer for this show. We are all set for 2026, though!

What’s Coming Up?

Mane Event Horse Show

October 15- 18

Home to the Good Hands Final, Team Knollwood is there in numbers.

The show is livestreamed on Richfield Video.

Woodwear Orders

Courtney has created a wonderful line of Woodwear for Fall 2026.

Samples in size medium are available in the school barn lounge, along with order blanks.

Orders are due October 26 for holiday delivery.

 

 

IASPHA Fall Show

October 25-26

Join us at Beyond Stable Farm for our last academy show of the 2025 season!

 

Halloween on Horseback

October 31 at 6:30 PM

It’s a sell out, and everyone is invited to see the costumes and games on horseback.

 

Parents Academy Meeting

Saturday, November 8 at 5:00 PM

Parents are invited to learn all about academy showing, and about why we love it so much.  Please sign up in the school barn lounge.

 

UPHA National Championship American Royal Horse Show

November 10-15

Kansas City, MO

Team Knollwood will be there for the National Championships, and for the last two of the ‘Big Three’ equitation finals, the UPHA Challenge Cups and the USEF Medal.

We’ll update livestream info soon.

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

Team Knollwood lost quite a character today when Pony Frank lost his fight with a brief illness.

Frank came to us with that classic pony name, and it fit like a glove.

 

He lived at Knollwood for 16 years and raised many wonderful Knollwood Kids.

For every day of those 16 years, Frank would pretend to not remember where his stall was, so he could run down the whole aisle to steal some of Fred's grain.  It didn’t matter if Fred was already in there or not. Frank would stand in front of Fred to eat while Fred backed away from the pony. Even Fred knew he was in the presence of greatness.

 

He was smart as a pony could be and was super talented at escaping his slip stall even when hooked up with the butt chain closed. We suspect he may have actually had thumbs.

 

Frank loved to play games on horseback and put up with just about anything.

He was a favorite contestant in Halloween on Horseback. He’s been everything from a carousel pony to a banana split.

 

A favorite bareback mount, riders knew they had seriously long legs when they could hook their feet under pony’s girth.

Most of all, he was a grand teacher. He was trusted with the smallest of riders and knew his job. Frank had no trouble working in the arena with big going show horses, as he never doubted his own importance.

 

We will miss our pony who taught us that good things can come in small packages.

 

 

 

Peace to you, Pony Frank.

 May you have all the grass and grain your big heart desires.

 

Hazel Belle may have crossed the rainbow bridge, but she lived every day to its fullest.

Here are some life lessons she shared during the time we were fortunate enough to be in her world.

 

 

Make Friends That Are Different Than You

Your friends don’t have to look like you, act like you, or even be anything like you. I spent hours with cats, horses, and people. And  yet, many of them understood me better than other dogs.

 

 

 

You Don’t Have to be Loud

Sometimes, the most interesting creatures don’t make a lot of noise.  I found that when I DID make noise, everyone came running. Sure, it usually involved a sandhill crane in the pasture, but everyone knew SOMETHING was up.

 

 

Help Whoever You Can, Whenever You Can

While I never got my PHD in psychology, I could see when someone was having a tough day. The best thing to do was to sit with them in the lounge. Sometimes, I got to lean into them and share ‘Hazelness’ with them up close.

I also guided patterns in the arena by not being in the way, and kept people warm for hours by sitting in their laps.

Whatever you can do to help, just do it.

 

 

Embrace the Outdoors

People like to complain about the weather in Wisconsin, but there’s always something to enjoy. One of my favorite people, Tracy, told me, ‘There’s no bad weather, just poor clothing choices.’

Disclaimer: I've been to her house for play dates and pool parties. Her dog Rosie is a good friend.

So, my mom always dressed me for the elements so I could enjoy snow, wind or rain. I was even allowed to be naked and sleep on the toasty pavement in the summer.

You can’t change the weather, and there’s always something to enjoy.

 

 

Get Your Rest

I noticed that you horse people have to work. A lot.

Be sure to get your naps in. You’ll feel a lot better for it.

 

Be Happy and Entertaining

My mom Carol taught me tricks so I could be the life of the party in center ring. I earned a lot of mints, and had a lot of opportunities to have my butt scratched. (My wardrobe sometimes got itchy.)

I developed strong tail muscles from wagging, and I hope you all develop your smiling muscles.

 

Cheer For Everyone

I’ve been to a lot of horse shows, and I love them.

At horse shows, and everyday, remember to cheer for everyone. It’s tough out there, especially if you don’t have a boxer dog to make you smile all the time.

 

 

 

Spend time With Kids

Kids are my favorite.

Best days  ever? Summer camp days!

I couldn't get out of the house fast enough to greet the campers.

They're honest, they're fun, and everything is new to them. Enjoy their laughing, games, and love of life everyday.

And, they let me take naps with them.

 

 

Be grateful.

Appreciate your people.

Team Knollwood is full of friends who gave me years of happiness. Scott and Carol are the best, and Scott’s lap is the perfect place to spend an evening. Walks with Carol and Izzy are perfection.

Be grateful for the outdoors, your friends, the horses and pets in your life. Most of all, be grateful for the memories you have that will always make you smile and remember.

 

Memories are Forever.

 

 

 

Coming Up?

 

Knollwood Show Updates

• Gift basket donations are due Wednesday, October 15
• Show bags are available for pick up in the school barn lounge.
• We're still looking for help at the concession stand. Please help here.

Mane Event Horse Show: October 15-18

• The show horses are headed to the Illinois State Fairgrounds
• The show features the first of the 'Big Three' equitation finals, the Good Hands.
• We'll update webcast info shortly.

IASPHA Show:  October 25-26

• 19 Academy riders are making the trip
• We're traveling to Beyond Stable Farm in Woodstock, IL
• It's our last academy show of the season. Please join us!

Halloween On Horseback:  Friday, October 31

• It's a sell out, and everyone is invited to watch
• Please feel free to wear a costume to watch the fun
• Costume creation can begin at 5:00 PM, Lessons will continue until 6:00 PM

Academy Parent Meeting: Saturday, November 8

• Parents are invited to join our informational meeting at 5:00 PM
• You'll learn why we love academy showing so much, and what it has to offer the rider in your home.
• Please sign up in the school barn lounge, so we know how many folders to prepare.

UPHA National Championship American Royal Horse Show  November 10-15

• The show horses will be competing for National Championships and in the UPHA and USEF Equitation Finals.
• We'll update with webcasting info when it's available.

 

Knockout Holiday Party and Officer Election: December 13

• All Knockouts and their families are invited to join our annual party, and election of club officers for 2026.
• Not yet a member? We'd love to have you. Please talk to your instructor or admin to join the adventures.

Knockout Award Banquet:  January 31, 2026

• Knockout members and families, please save the date!
• We'll gather at the Legend at Merrill Hills to celebrate 2025 and take a peek into 2026.
• All Knockout members will receive invitations after the holidays.
• You really don't want to miss this!

 

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

 

Team Knollwood lost part of its soul on Saturday when Carol and Scott had to let Hazel go.

Hazel was a therapist for anyone having a rough day. How many of you enjoyed Hazel leaning into you when she knew you needed her?

Hazel loved all the Knollwood Kids. Scott and Carol’s house couldn’t contain her during camp, as she HAD to be in the barn when the campers arrived. Hazel’s summer days were spent with the camp kids. When they laid in the sun for naps, so did Hazel.

Hazel knew patterns in the arena. She kept of the way as she counted serpentine loops and circles. When riders were working on crazy patterns, we created safe places for her highness to enjoy the sun.

Hazel raised Izzy to be a good Matton. With patience and the occasional reprimand, Hazel helped Izzy grow from a crazy puppy into a proper horse show dog. Of course, Izzy loves everyone, as Hazel taught her.

 

Most of all, Hazel loved Carol and Scott. The look in her eyes when it was time to go back to the house with them as all you needed to see.

For a dog found running the roads of rural Arkansas and sent to a Boxer rescue, Hazel lived a heavenly dog life with Scott and Carol. She had the freedom of life on a farm, parents who adored her, horse show dog friends around the country, dog friends at home, and a tribe of people who adored her every day. And kids. Millions of kids.

 

We wish her peace, sunny naps, and play with her friends who went over the bridge before her.

 

There will never be another Hazel Belle Boxer Matton, but we’re all better people for having been in her world for a while.

The St Louis Charity National Horse Show is always a favorite stop on the show schedule, and this year's show did not disappoint

Knollwood Kids of all ages rode like rockstars, and brought wonderful memories home as well as some serious accomplishments.

Leighton and Teddy are a force.

Leighton and Teddy completed their first year of junior pleasure equitation finals with a bang. Leighton enjoyed learning all about the walk trot and canter show world this year and was Reserve National Champions in the UPHA Pleasure Challenge Cup Final, won the silver medal in the Pleasure Equitation Olympics, and earned the reserve national title in the Saddle and Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion final at St Louis.

Congratulations to this personality plus team on their exciting year.

 

Avery and Maddie were walk trot royalty.

Knollwood’s walk and trot equitation riders are both in their first year of competition in the show horse world, and they’re having a grand time learning the ropes and making friends.

Both of these Knollwood Kids are dedicated horse girls, and work very hard in their lessons. Their efforts were rewarded in St Louis with some high ribbons and great fun.

 

 

Senior Pleasure Equitation Riders? Super Strong.

Maiya, Natalie, and Sophie represented us well.

In her final year as a junior exhibitor, Natalie won the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeder’s Association National Championship of Pleasure Equitation. Teammate Maiya was reserve on Riddle, and, in her first year of competition in the show horse world, Sophie and Gamora finished a strong 5^th.

The Saddle and Bridle Pleasure Equitation Medallion Final is always a deep competition at St Louis.

After railwork and patterns, the skills of the riders was evident.

Maiya and Riddle turned in consistent, dynamic performances to win the event. Natalie finished in fourth, and Sophie was 9^th.

Shaye was reunited with her partner Lady, and performed a great pattern in the Medal qualifier to finish second.

 

College man Richie came to compete in trimmed equitation, and barnmate Brooklyn joined him at the show.

These two riders show beautiful, talented horses with lots of energy. Richie and Brooklyn rode them beautifully in some wonderful competition.

Richie finished up by winning the equitation championship, while Brooklyn and Gigi finished 3^rd.

Addison and Robert continued their first season together with impressive rides in the show pleasure division, while Tancy and Mickey were stars in the Veteran Pleasure division.

Handsome, Arthur, and Jaydee continued their winning ways for the Schuhs and Nicole.

Next up for the show horses?  They’re off to the Mane Event Show in Springfield October 15-18.

What’s Coming Up?

 

UPHA Chapter 10 Fall Show

Beyond Stable Farm

October 4-5

We’re off to Woodstock with 19 riders  this weekend, and we can’t wait.

It’s going to be a beautiful weekend, and we’re showing in the big outdoor arena.

Come on down and cheer us on!

 

 

Knollwood Fall Show

October 17-19

It’s time for the grand finale of the in-barn show season.

This fall show is a big one, and we’re looking forward to showcasing all of our riders and the best lesson horses in the world.

Please consider donating your time and talent to support the show. You can sign up here.

We’re thrilled to announce that Versiti is sponsoring our concession stand at the fall show. They have a fun contest planned for Knollwood parents who sign up for blood donation. Here’s your chance to help the community and earn prizes.

 

Show bags will be ready for pick up early this week.

 

 

Mane Event Horse Show

October 15-18

Illinois State Fairgrounds

The first of the ‘Big Three’ equitation finals is up for grabs at Mane Event.

Equitation riders from all over the country will be in Springfield to compete in the Good Hands final, the oldest of the three that make up the Triple Crown of Equitation.

The show also features highly competitive performance horse classes, all held in the beautiful coliseum.

We’ll update with streaming info as soon as we can.

 

IASPHA Fall Horse Show

October 25-26

Beyond Stable Farm

Woodstock, Illinois

The academy team is off to their last show of the 2025 campaign. Our 19 riders will be competing in the cozy indoor arena, and many of our first year show riders are finishing off their season at the show.

If you’re thinking of joining our academy team next season, this would be a perfect show to attend. We’ll have both experienced academy stars, and riders who are showing for only the second time.

Come down and see why we love academy showing so much.

 

Halloween on Horseback

October 31 at 6:30

It’s a sell out!

Everyone is welcome to watch the costume judging and horse games in the arena at 6:30.

Participants are welcome to start costume creation at 5:30 while we finish lessons.

You won’t want to miss the fun. Please wear a costume if you’re coming to watch.

 

Academy Parent Meeting

November 8 at 5:00

We can’t say enough good things about academy showing.

Thinking about joining our academy show team in 2026?

Please join us in the show barn lounge at 5:00 on Saturday, November 8.

We’ll talk about why we love academy showing. Parents will learn about lesson commitment, clothing requirements, the different types of academy shows, our tentative show schedule, and all the upgrades available to academy riders. These include advanced camps and rescheduling of missed lessons. We’ll also talk about the financial picture, so this is an adult-only meeting.

We’ll have a kid friendly meeting with horse demos later.

 

 

 

Save the Dates!

Knockout Holiday Party and Election

December 13 at 6:00

All Knockouts are invited to join the holiday celebration and election of Knockout officers for 2026.

Not yet a member? We’d love to have you!

Your admin or your instructor can help you join the fun.

 

Knockout Awards Banquet

January 31

The Legend at Merrill Hills

You don’t want to miss this!

We’ll celebrate all things Knollwood, and enjoy social time, dinner, awards, speeches, a slide show, and dancing.

 

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