Horse Illustrated Magazine Staff Team https://www.horseillustrated.com/author/horse_illustrated/ Tue, 20 Oct 2026 20:28:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Maddie https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-maddie/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-maddie/#respond Fri, 23 Oct 2026 11:00:41 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953055 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Maddie! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Maddie, a 21-year-old, 15.0hh Quarter Horse gelding Organization: […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Maddie! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Maddie.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

Adoptable Horse: Maddie, a 21-year-old, 15.0hh Quarter Horse gelding
Organization: Humane Society of Ventura County, Ojai, Calif.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Maddie

Meet Maddie, a beautiful 21-year-old Quarter Horse mare who recently came to the Humane Society of Ventura County and is ready to find a family of her own.

Maddie a sweet, gentle girl who absolutely loves people, and kids are some of her favorite people to be around. She loves attention, going for hand walks, and enjoying nice, easy outings. She can even go for short rides when appropriate.

Maddie enjoys being around other horses, but she also appreciates having her own space. Due to an old knee injury, she is not quite as quick as she used to be, but she is perfectly happy taking life at a slower pace. With regular maintenance and the right care, she can be a wonderful companion and a great horse for kids.

A pretty easygoing mare, Maddie is good for the farrier, great for the vet, and she doesn’t mind getting a nice bath.

Maddie may be a little older, but she still has plenty of love to give. If you are looking for a sweet, gentle horse who loves kids, enjoys attention, and is happiest taking life one easy stroll at a time, she might be just your girl!

Contact Humane Society of Ventura County today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Maddie!

A buckskin mare.

Photo courtesy Humane Society of Ventura County

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Sweet Callie Cat https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-sweet-callie-cat/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-sweet-callie-cat/#respond Fri, 23 Oct 2026 11:00:18 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953345 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Sweet Callie Cat! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Sweet Callie Cat, a 3-year-old, 15.0hh Standardbred […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Sweet Callie Cat! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Sweet Allie Cat.

Photo courtesy Lucky 7 Horse Rescue

Adoptable Horse: Sweet Callie Cat, a 3-year-old, 15.0hh Standardbred mare
Organization: Lucky 7 Horse Rescue, Isanti, Minn.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Sweet Callie Cat

Sweet Callie Cat is an absolute sweetheart of a young mare. She is a joy to be around and a very forgiving girl. She came to Lucky 7 healthy and sound, and just wasn’t big enough to race on the track competitively.

She has since begun her new career under saddle. She is a lovely, forward-moving mare, eager to get out to see the sights of the world beyond that of the racetrack. She would thrive as a trail horse, but could really go any direction. Sweet Callie Cat has the time of her life carrying around a beginner rider on all kinds of trails. She trailers great, loves hanging out while camping, will soak up any kind of attention she can get, and will still keep you laughing through it all with her innocently goofy personality.

This girl isn’t super tall, so she’s the perfect smaller Standardbred for someone who loves the breed but doesn’t want the height. If you’re unfamiliar with the Standardbred breed, Lucky 7 encourages you to do some research on all they can do. Hearing “young” and “off-the-track” may make you think she’s going to be a crazy, hot youngster but that couldn’t be further from the truth; Standardbreds are known for their calm, forgiving nature and are even commonly used in therapy programs.

Sweet Callie Cat is available through Lucky 7’s Standardbred Rehoming Program, which exists for owners to safely rehome their retiring racehorses in a way that acknowledges the value of their horses. Off-the-track Standardbreds come with a lot of excellent handling and care, and are extreme athletes. When they are working, they are all “business mode.” When their harness is off, however, they show their goofy personalities. Every Standardbred has their unique set of goofy quirks — some like to twirl their heads, others like to stick their tongues out, and even more like to wiggle their lips. Like most Standardbreds, Callie comes with these wonderful qualities:

◆ Stands tied
◆ Cross-ties
◆ Trailers like a champ
◆ Good for farrier
◆ Stands for baths
◆ Up to date on everything

Standardbreds offered through Lucky 7’s Standardbred Rehoming Program are NOT rescues. They have been loved and cared for their entire lives, valued as racehorses. The Standardbred Rehoming Program exists to give horse owners the option to safely rehome their off-the-track Standardbreds in a way that acknowledges the value of their horses. Many of these horses would be sold for double or triple the price to go work on rural farms, as they are valued by those communities as working animals and transportation. When adopting a horse in Lucky 7’s Standardbred Rehoming Program, half of the fee goes to the previous owner of the horse, and half goes directly into getting two or three Standardbreds away from the hard work of working on rural farms.

Contact Lucky 7 Horse Rescue today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Sweet Callie Cat!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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World-Class Horsewoman Jill Barron Joins the Road to the Horse 2027 Wild Card Competitor Lineup https://www.horseillustrated.com/jill-barron-joins-road-to-the-horse-2027-wild-card/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/jill-barron-joins-road-to-the-horse-2027-wild-card/#respond Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:20:35 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953243 Road to the Horse is proud to announce Canadian horsewoman Jill Barron as a Wild Card Competitor for Road to the Horse 2027, March 18–21 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. A world-class coach, trainer, judge and competitor, Barron has dedicated her life to the horse, developing expertise across multiple disciplines, from colt […]

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Road to the Horse is proud to announce Canadian horsewoman Jill Barron as a Wild Card Competitor for Road to the Horse 2027, March 18–21 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. A world-class coach, trainer, judge and competitor, Barron has dedicated her life to the horse, developing expertise across multiple disciplines, from colt starting and rope horse training to high-level dressage. With a horsemanship philosophy rooted in trust, clear communication and partnership, Barron is ready to put her skills to the test as she pursues colt starting’s most prestigious title—the World Championship of Colt Starting. 

The graphic for Jill Barron as a Wild Card Competitor for Road to the Horse 2027.

“There is something so unexplainably pure about starting a colt—a blank slate you have the privilege of shaping. The goal is to build their confidence and teach them the skills they need for the journey ahead,” said Barron. “I will forever be a student of the horse and look forward to the opportunity to surround myself with the best in the business at Road to the Horse.” 

Raised on her family’s ranch in southern Alberta, Canada, Barron developed a deep appreciation for horses and horsemanship from an early age. Her diverse experience across disciplines has shaped her quiet, intuitive approach, blending classical techniques with natural horsemanship to develop confident horses and meaningful partnerships. Throughout her career, she has earned numerous championship titles and achieved the distinction of having her Lusitano, Cossaco, featured as a Breyer model. 

Beyond the competition arena, Barron is passionate about education and developing the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen. She serves as horsemanship coach for the Calgary Stampede Showriders, an internationally recognized youth equestrian team, and is a sought-after trainer and clinician. Her commitment to lifelong learning reflects her belief that true horsemanship is built on trust, understanding and a partnership in which both horse and rider can thrive. 

“We’re excited to welcome Jill to the Road to the Horse Wild Card Competitor lineup,” said Tina Battock, president of Morris Equine Group. “Jill brings a wealth of experience across multiple disciplines and a horsemanship philosophy that aligns with what Road to the Horse represents. We look forward to learning from her experience, thoughtful approach to horsemanship and dedication to building confident horses and lasting partnerships.” 

More than a competition, Road to the Horse is a celebration of horsemanship, featuring championship colt starting action, world-class equine entertainment, educational clinics, demonstrations and a bustling trade show. 

The Wild Card Challenge kicks off Thursday, March 18, and concludes Friday, March 19. As in years past, the Wild Card Challenge Champion will advance directly to a Championship Competitor position Friday afternoon, earning the opportunity to compete for the $135,000 purse. 

Barron joins the 2027 Wild Card Competitor lineup, where participants will vie for the opportunity to advance to the Championship round and compete for the World Championship of Colt Starting alongside previously announced Championship Competitors Dan Steers (Australia), Josh Lyons (USA) and Clayton Edsall (USA). 

Road to the Horse 2027 takes place March 18–21, 2027, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Tickets are available at RoadtotheHorse.com or by calling 800-514-3849. Follow Road to the Horse on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and announcements. 

About Road to the Horse 

Founded in 2003, Road to the Horse strives to inspire people to reach a higher level of horsemanship and develop unity with a horse based on trust and not fear. We believe that through education and entertainment, we can change people’s ideas and create a better world for the horse. Road to the Horse competitions identify the superior colt starter who accumulates the highest score. Judging focuses on the competitor and the effectiveness of their horsemanship methodology to communicate, educate and build a partnership with their colt based on trust. Fans witness the entire journey, from colt selection to the final obstacle challenge. Tickets and information available at www.RoadtotheHorse.com. 

— Edited Press Release | Source: Road to the Horse

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ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Lady https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-lady/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-lady/#respond Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:00:03 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953059 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Lady! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Lady, a 25-year-old, 15.0hh Standardbred mare Organization: Happy […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Lady! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Lady.

Photo courtesy Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary

Adoptable Horse: Lady, a 25-year-old, 15.0hh Standardbred mare
Organization: Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, Ravenna, Ohio

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Lady

Meet Lady!

This cutie pie is still so full of life at 25, and enjoys having a job. While still respecting her aging body, but keeping her nimble and exercised, a home with some fun bareback riding is exactly what this mare is looking for.

Lady is an easy keeper with no maintenance, even staying barefoot. She picks up all of her feet like a champ and will do whatever you ask, as long as you explain it with confidence. Lady is very kind, but needs a little bit more work and some love before she’s ready to be called a kids’ horse. Happy Trails does believe that with the right people and time, she will make an excellent little packer!

Contact Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Lady!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Blame Bourbon https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-blame-bourbon/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-blame-bourbon/#respond Tue, 06 Oct 2026 11:00:10 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953032 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Blame Bourbon! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Blame Bourbon, a 3-year-old, 16.0hh Thoroughbred gelding […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Blame Bourbon! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Blame Bourbon.

Photo courtesy Kentucky Equine Adoption Center

Adoptable Horse: Blame Bourbon, a 3-year-old, 16.0hh Thoroughbred gelding
Organization: Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, Lexington, Ky.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Blame Bourbon

Bourbon is a sweet yet spirited young gelding with plenty of potential for a future in lower-level riding disciplines. Due to a windpipe condition, he is not suited for high-speed activities such as jumping or barrel racing, but he is expected to thrive with the right partner in a variety of other pursuits.

This handsome gelding has built a solid foundation through groundwork and has now begun his under-saddle training. He has been successfully saddled and ridden in the round pen and will continue building confidence and experience as his training progresses. A quick learner with a willing attitude, Bourbon responds well to consistency and clear guidance, making him an exciting prospect for someone who enjoys developing a young horse. As his education advances, his adoption fee will increase accordingly (it is currently $1,000).

In the pasture, Bourbon’s friendly and social personality shines. He enjoys spending time with his herd mates and can often be found playing with his friends. As he continues to mature, he receives monthly chiropractic care to help manage occasional growing pains and currently wears front shoes to support his increasing workload.

If you’re looking for a kind, athletic young partner with a bright future, Bourbon could be the perfect match. With continued training, he’s well on his way to becoming a rewarding partner for years to come.

Contact Kentucky Equine Adoption Center today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Blame Bourbon!

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Kasuco https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-kasuco/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-kasuco/#respond Fri, 02 Oct 2026 11:00:03 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=952721 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Kasuco! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Kasuco, a 15-year-old, 16.0hh Andalusian gelding Organization: Horses’ […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Kasuco! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Kasuco.

Photo courtesy Horses’ Haven

Adoptable Horse: Kasuco, a 15-year-old, 16.0hh Andalusian gelding
Organization: Horses’ Haven, Howell, Mich.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Kasuco

KA Kasuco is a stunning double-registered Andalusian gelding with a handsome, dappled gray coat and a sweet, people-loving personality. At 15 years old, he is looking for a partner to continue his journey.

Kasuco was started under saddle as a 3-year-old but then spent many years out of work. Since being restarted, he has impressed Horses’ Haven with how quickly he is relearning his training. He is confidently working at the walk and trot, developing a balanced canter, and learning lateral work. His beautiful, floaty movement and willing attitude make him an exciting dressage prospect.

Kasuco is a sensitive horse who needs a confident and experienced rider who can be clear with what they are asking as he has the potential to become overwhelmed quickly when confused. As he continues his restart, he is developing a better understanding of the rider’s leg and is becoming more confident in carrying himself forward. He is intelligent, eager to learn, and has tremendous potential for someone who enjoys bringing along a talented horse.

He requires front shoes and light hock maintenance to stay comfortable in work and continues to build strength and fitness with regular riding.

Most of all, Kasuco is simply a lovely gelding to be around—kind, friendly, and always happy to spend time with his people. If you’re looking for a handsome Andalusian with expressive movement, a wonderful temperament, and lots of potential, Kasuco could be your perfect match.

Contact Horses’ Haven today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Kasuco!

A bay Thoroughbred free jumping.

Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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World’s Greatest Horseman Clayton Edsall Joins the Road to the Horse 2027 Competitor Lineup https://www.horseillustrated.com/clayton-edsall-joins-the-road-to-the-horse-2027/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/clayton-edsall-joins-the-road-to-the-horse-2027/#respond Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:24:48 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953247 Road to the Horse is proud to announce Clayton Edsall as a Championship Competitor for Road to the Horse 2027, taking place March 18–21, 2027, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. A World’s Greatest Horseman Champion and NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider, Edsall has won nearly every major NRCHA premier event championship, developing some of the sport’s […]

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Road to the Horse is proud to announce Clayton Edsall as a Championship Competitor for Road to the Horse 2027, taking place March 18–21, 2027, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. A World’s Greatest Horseman Champion and NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider, Edsall has won nearly every major NRCHA premier event championship, developing some of the sport’s most recognizable horses along the way. Now, he is ready to put his horsemanship to the ultimate test as he pursues colt starting’s most prestigious title—the World Championship of Colt Starting. 

The graphic for Clayton Edsall joining the Road to the Horse 2027 Competitor Lineup.

“It’s about returning to where it all began,” said Edsall. “A young horse, a blank slate and the kind of horsemanship that can’t be measured by a résumé—just a lifetime spent learning to understand the horse.” 

That connection goes back to 2014, when Edsall served as a pen wrangler for Antoine Cloux of Switzerland, who competed at Road to the Horse that year. The experience left a lasting impression, and competing at Road to the Horse has remained on Edsall’s wish list ever since. Now, more than a decade later, he will return to the Kentucky Horse Park not as a Pen Wrangler, but as a Championship Competitor. 

“We’re excited to have Clayton join the Road to the Horse Competitor lineup,” states Tina Battock, President of Morris Equine Group. “Clayton has dedicated his life to the horse and has proven that he can build a solid foundation on a young colt, then continue that development all the way to the highest levels of competition. We’re excited to see him bring his knowledge, experience and horsemanship to the Road to the Horse round pen in 2027.” 

Raised on his family’s cattle ranch in Montana, Edsall grew up horseback, branding, doctoring, roping and gathering cattle. As a young man, he worked on ranches throughout the West, sometimes living in a teepee and starting colts miles from an arena. His education came through long days, fresh horses and real jobs, along with the influence of legendary horsemen including Ray Hunt, Tom Dorrance, Joe Wolter, Brian Neubert and Tink Elordi. 

That foundation eventually carried Edsall into the performance-horse world, where he has spent nearly two decades establishing himself as one of reined cow horse’s most accomplished horsemen. Today, Clayton and his wife, Chelsea, and their two children call Texas home, where they operate Edsall Performance Horses. 

More than a competition, Road to the Horse is a celebration of horsemanship, featuring championship colt starting, world-class equine entertainment, educational clinics, demonstrations and a bustling trade show. 

The Wild Card Challenge kicks off Thursday, March 18, and concludes Friday, March 19. As in years past, the Wild Card Challenge Champion will step directly into a Championship Competitor position Friday afternoon, earning the opportunity to compete for the $135,000 purse. 

Edsall joins previously announced competitors Dan Steers (Australia) and Josh Lyons (USA) to complete the 2027 Championship Competitor lineup. The three will be joined by the Wild Card Challenge Champion in the quest for the World Championship of Colt Starting. 

The Wild Card Challenge competitors will be announced shortly, completing the 2027 field and setting the stage for four colt starters to compete for the most coveted title in horsemanship. 

Road to the Horse 2027 takes place March 18–21, 2027, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Tickets are available at RoadtotheHorse.com or by calling 800-514-3849. Follow Road to the Horse on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and announcements. 

About Road to the Horse 

Founded in 2003, Road to the Horse strives to inspire people to reach a higher level of horsemanship and develop unity with a horse based on trust and not fear. We believe that through education and entertainment, we can change people’s ideas and create a better world for the horse. Road to the Horse competitions identify the superior colt starter who accumulates the highest score. Judging focuses on the competitor and the effectiveness of their horsemanship methodology to communicate, educate and build a partnership with their colt based on trust. Fans witness the entire journey, from colt selection to the final obstacle challenge. Tickets and information available at www.RoadtotheHorse.com. 

— Edited Press Release | Source: Road to the Horse

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Standlee’s Grab & Go® Bales Go Pink Again for Breast Cancer Awareness https://www.horseillustrated.com/standlees-grab-go-bales-go-pink-again-for-breast-cancer-awareness/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/standlees-grab-go-bales-go-pink-again-for-breast-cancer-awareness/#respond Thu, 01 Oct 2026 19:19:25 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=953012 Kimberly, Idaho – This October, Standlee is once again turning its iconic green Grab & Go bales pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Now in its sixth year of supporting the cause, Standlee’s annual breast cancer awareness campaign returns with Grab & Go to Give, bringing together customers, communities and organizations in support […]

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Kimberly, Idaho – This October, Standlee is once again turning its iconic green Grab & Go bales pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Now in its sixth year of supporting the cause, Standlee’s annual breast cancer awareness campaign returns with Grab & Go to Give, bringing together customers, communities and organizations in support of those impacted by breast cancer.

For the second year, limited-edition pink Grab & Go bales have been distributed to retailers across the country, helping spread awareness from barns and farms to communities nationwide. While the packaging may look different, customers can expect the same highquality forage they have come to trust from Standlee.

Standlee's pink Grab & Go bales for breast cancer awareness.

When customers choose a pink Grab & Go bale, they are not only fueling their animals but also helping Standlee support organizations working to make a meaningful difference for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

“Supporting the fight against breast cancer has long been part of who we are at Standlee,” said Jessica Wright, VP of Marketing. “Each year, we are reminded that this fight affects people standing right beside us in our barns, homes and communities. Bringing the pink bales back gives us another opportunity to come together, show our support and help make a meaningful difference for those impacted by breast cancer.”

Over the past six years, Standlee’s breast cancer awareness efforts have shared stories of strength and resilience while encouraging the agriculture and equine communities to come together in support of the cause. In 2025 alone, Standlee donated a total of $65,000 to organizations supporting breast cancer research, education, resources and individuals and families impacted by the disease.

This year, Standlee’s support will benefit five organizations:

◆ Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) – Funding innovative research to prevent and cure breast cancer worldwide.
◆ Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) – Providing education, resources, and a supportive community for people affected by breast cancer.
◆ Rein In Cancer – Supporting individuals and families affected by cancer while bringing together the Western and equine communities around the cause.
◆ Rural Gone Urban Foundation – Providing judgment-free grants and financial support to women battling breast cancer, empowering them to make memories and invest in legacies for themselves and their families.
◆ Horses and Hope – Supporting medically underserved individuals, especially those in the Kentucky horse industry and beyond, through education, screening, and support to help with early detection and care.

New for 2026, supporters can take their support beyond the barn with a collection of limitededition Grab & Go to Give apparel and merchandise available on the Standlee website throughout October. Net proceeds from the collection will be donated in support of the campaign’s partner organizations.

From putting a pink bale in the barn to wearing their support, customers across the country can join Standlee in standing behind those affected by breast cancer and the organizations working every day to make an impact.

Together, we can fuel animals, fuel hope and stand stronger in the fight against breast cancer.

For more information about Standlee’s Grab & Go to Give campaign and ways to show your support, visit www.standleeforage.com/promotions/grab-go-give/ or contact marketing@standlee.com.

— Edited Press Release

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Barn Banter – Episode 48 https://www.horseillustrated.com/barn-banter-episode-48/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/barn-banter-episode-48/#respond Thu, 01 Oct 2026 11:00:05 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=952751 Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 48, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Amanda Anderson of Ssaddlefitting.us. Plus, tune in as they talk with sponsored guest Olissio Zoppe of Cirque Ma’Ceo. To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Kaycie […]

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Barn Banter Episode 48 banner.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 48, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Amanda Anderson of Ssaddlefitting.us. Plus, tune in as they talk with sponsored guest Olissio Zoppe of Cirque Ma’Ceo.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Kaycie McCarthy of MSPCA at Nevins Farm about Pip, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Amanda Anderson of saddlefitting.us

Barn Banter episode 48 guest Amanda Anderson of Saddlefitting.us.

Barn Banter episode 48 guest Amanda Anderson of Saddlefitting.us.

Amanda Anderson of saddlefitting.us is a German-trained saddle fitter with three years of apprenticeship to a German Master Saddler, over 4,800 hours of instruction, and 25 years of saddle fitting experience. Since 2001, Amanda has attended over 20 U.S., German, and U.K. based independent and brand-sponsored saddle fitting courses/schools. Her business, Saddlefitting.us, provides saddle fitting services as well as education.

◆ Saddlefitting.us Website
◆ Follow saddlefitting.us on Instagram
◆ Follow saddlefitting.us on Facebook

Sponsored Guest: Olissio Zoppe of Cirque Ma’Ceo

Olissio Zoppe and an Andalusian performing at a Cirque Ma'Ceo show.

Photo by Stunning Steeds Photography

Cirque Ma’Ceo’s Creator and Director, Olissio Zoppe, hails from a rich Italian line of eighth and ninth generation bareback riders and equestrian performers, the Zoppes and the Zamperlas. He has been performing since the age of four. Olissio is one of the most well-rounded equestrian performers to grace the stage today. Throughout his varied experiences, he has mastered the arts of liberty, dressage, cossack riding, Roman riding, and the rare and dangerous art of bareback riding.

Cirque Ma’Ceo is an emotionally charging, up-close and personal, luxurious experience. The custom-designed Italian Big Top theater features brand-new, state of the art seating. The world of Ma’Ceo is proud to showcase mesmerizing acrobatic feats, aerial dancing, and exotic horses.

The current special tour guest is legendary Grand Liberté performer Sylvia Zerbini. For the tour schedule and to purchase tickets, visit here.

◆ Cirque Ma’Ceo Website
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Instagram
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Pip

Adoptable horse Pip, featured in Barn Banter Episode 48.

Photo courtesy MSPCA at Nevins Farm

Pip is an impressively handsome 21-year-old OTTB gelding looking for a new pasture. He currently shares a paddock with an older Irish Sport Horse gelding. They have lived together for some time and enjoy the company. MSPCA has not introduced Pip to other equines in their care but they don’t anticipate him having a hard time making new buddies in his new home!

Pip stands well for the farrier and vet. He was recently diagnosed with EOTRH and will require removal of the affected teeth. This is a procedure MSPCA has scheduled. His adopter should have a close relationship with their veterarian to continue his care. Though it sounds intense, horses tend to do very well with this procedure. The removal of the affected teeth will also remove his discomfort.

Pip came to MSPCA at Nevins Farm with a history of being ridden under saddle, though he has not done so in some time. They have not completed an under-saddle evaluation due to his body condition.

Learn more about Pip here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 48, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

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ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Ophelia https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-ophelia/ https://www.horseillustrated.com/aspca-right-horse-adoptable-horse-of-the-week-ophelia/#respond Fri, 25 Sep 2026 11:00:21 +0000 https://www.horseillustrated.com/?p=952688 Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Ophelia! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse. Adoptable Horse: Ophelia, a 10-year-old, 14.1hh American Quarter Horse mare […]

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Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the ASPCA’s Right Horse program. This week’s adoptable horse is Ophelia! Check back weekly for a new featured horse so you can find your Right Horse.

Adoptable horse Ophelia.

Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue Ranch

Adoptable Horse: Ophelia, a 10-year-old, 14.1hh American Quarter Horse mare
Organization: Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, Union, Mo.

Get to Know Adoptable Horse Ophelia

Ophelia came to Longmeadow with another horse when her previous owners moved and could not take their horses with them. She arrived blind in both eyes, but that didn’t stop her from being the sweetheart she is. Ophelia surprised the Longmeadow crew and settled quickly into life at the Ranch. It wasn’t long before she was ready to be evaluated by their trainers.

The first thing the trainers noted, besides Ophelia’s obvious blindness, was that this mare clearly had owners and trainers who did right by her in her past. She passed her groundwork tests with flying colors and had excellent ground manners. She was proficient in standing tied, loading in the trailer, and being bathed. The moment her evaluation began under saddle, she was perfectly comfortable putting all of her trust into our trainers. Since she is completely blind, she relied on her handler for guidance both on the ground and under saddle (due to this, she will require a strong and advanced intermediate rider at a minimum). When ridden in the arena at the walk and trot, she was a very good girl, responding well to neck reining and leg aids.

However, it’s important to note that due to Ophelia’s lack of vision, she is not suitable for a beginner rider or handler. Her trust in people can quickly diminish if she is mishandled or steered into obstacles, like a tree or wall. With her specific needs, Ophelia deserves a home with experienced individuals who can provide the proper care she needs.

Ophelia is an angel and a staff favorite. Her calm, kind demeanor and willingness to trust has softens hearts at the Ranch. She stands wonderfully for the farrier and the vet. She gets along with other horses and settles into new routines nicely. She truly is such a great mare.

Contact Longmeadow Rescue Ranch today about ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, Ophelia!

A blind bay mare.

Photo courtesy Longmeadow Rescue Ranch

ASPCA Right Horse

ASPCA Right Horse is the online adoption platform of The Right Horse Initiative, a collection of equine industry and welfare professionals and advocates working together to improve the lives of horses in transition. A program of the ASPCA, their goal is to massively increase horse adoption in the United States. To find more adoptable horses and foster horses, visit www.myrighthorse.org. To learn more about The Right Horse, a program of the ASPCA, visit www.aspcarighthorse.org.

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