Underwood Claims Top Honors

Terina Underwood, remained cool at The Shepherd Ranch Horse Trials to win the Novice Rider division despite the pressure of going into Stadium in first place. Moving up to first after mastering the tough cross country course without penalty aboard The Dark Knight, Terina had less than a rail separating her from second place going into the final phase of stadium jumping. Not letting the pressure bother her, she put in a double clear round for the win, much to the delight of her family and the DF Team. Way to go Terina!!

Student of the Month: Megan Watkins

I am particularly proud of this young rider. She has a great work ethic and focuses every emotion into her riding. She started out as a hesitant rider and had a hard time trusting the horses. After a lot of hard work, dedication, and Khan, she has shown me that she is one of my intermediate riders. She can get her horse completely ready for a lesson. Including; putting the bridle on and saddling with no help at all! She is also already cantering in her lessons.

She is always ready to ride with the appropriate riding gear, and her hair neatly back. I never have to remind her to wear her gloves or get her hair out of her eyes: tidy = style for Megan. Her attention to detail is refreshing and it is a complete joy to have her as my student.

To sum up Megan, I would have to say, "Clean boots, a can-do attitude, and a smile."

Melissa

Hope Springs Eternal

May 7th brought the arrival of our smashing new Morgan filly, Dragonfire Hopeful. By World Champion Dragonfire Kirin, and out of Coulee Bend Anticipation, "Hope" is a full sibling to both Dragonfire Lotus and Dragonfire Feng Shui. This cross has not disappointed us yet, as this filly looks to be every bit as lovely as her sisters. Kirin crosses strongly with UVM bred mares for Sport, so we expect this filly to excel in Dressage or Jumping. Her super flashy markings will make her a real stand out in any crowd!

Joy to the "Max" at Dragonfire

Born late at night on May 24th, Axiom DF, or "Max" has been a thrill since conception. By one of the most striking Holsteiner stallions we have seen, Ariadus, and out of our Trakhener mare by Olympic producer Fleetwater Oppostition, we were excited from the beginning on this venture. But, being a breech baby in the middle of the night, might have been a little more excitement than we bargained for! Thankfully, we had a happy ending with a stunning result.

Max continues to thrill us with his balanced gaits, strong frame, and a wonderfully playful attitude.

Champions Emerge At The Academy @ Dragonfire Show Series Finale

Our Champions, Leida Mangang and Makena Graber

The Academy @ Dragonfire Show Series was a huge success, with many of it's riders improving tremendously with a little help from friendly competition. Our final show featured Erin Patricio officiating our first Dressage show in our new arena. This was a fitting end for the Series, as all of the riders here have worked diligently on becoming more sophisticated. All were pleased to have Judge Patricio's input at the end of each ride and the chance to improve for their next one. The show prizes were sponsored once again by Sheldon Feed and Supply, and we thank them for all of their support for our Academy.

the top six youth riders wait to hear who wins the saddle

Producing top rides and high scores of the show were Makena Graber, Leida Mangang, Kaitlyn Sipes, Emma Roseberry and Wren Posey. All of these riders were extremely poised and confident, giving the judge an obvious reason to score high and award them first place in their respective classes.

After two very tight races for the High Point Overall Adult and Overall Youth, Makena Graber and Leida Mangang emerged victorious. Makena's win and top score aboard her very own mare, Sugar, secured this championship jacket for her. We couldn't be more proud of Makena and the partnership she has formed with her darling mount. Winning the Overall Youth and the brand new saddle was May's Student of the Month, Leida Mangang aboard Aieda. Leida and two other Academy riders were in a tie for the Championship, but her high score from Judge Patricio broke the tie and ultimately won her the saddle. The Overall Sportsmanship Award went to Isabel Didier. Izzy's will to compete, but supportive attitude towards her fellow teammates was a shining example for others to follow.

The day ended with some really great rides of assorted tests from our event riders and plenty of smiles from our Academy riders. Thank you to all that participated, it was a joy to see.

Construction Continues at Dragonfire

Just in time for the last in our series of The Academy @ Dragonfire Schooling Shows, the new full sized Dressage court is finished! We are so excited to have this addition to both our training and lesson programs.