Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers

I’ve been a huge fan of this company for years, both for the quality of products and their customer service. I have their hay nets in all of my stalls. But I do blanket, and the issue of buckles getting caught in nets has always been a concern. The crew at Hay Chix has come up with an easy and cost-effective solution: a pack of 12 buckle covers (in three different sizes) that easily Velcro over blanket buckles to lessen the chance of getting stuck. They’re super sturdy, the different size options have worked on all of my different blanket brands, and they’re super easy-on-easy-off. These make great gifts for barn friends—and you may as well pick up a pack or two for your own stocking.

Shop for $20 on haychix.com.

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm by Charley Mackesy

If you are an equestrian who has not yet heard of the British artist Charlie Mackesy, do your heart a service and check him out. His latest book Always Remember is the sequel to his first—The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—and like its predecessor, is a gorgeous combination of beautifully-minimalist illustrations and simple, yet profound life lessons on friendship, kindness and resiliency. The messages in Always Remember brought me to tears, and I bought three copies for my dearest friends for the holidays… and caved and gave one early to a friend who I thought could use its inspiration sooner. This book is a work of art, and a gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list.

Shop for $18.88 for the hardcover book on Amazon, or visit Mackesy’s website for originals, prints, cards, and other gorgeous gifts.

Venustas Fleece Heated Vest and More

Venustas is a newer competitor to the heated clothing market that’s definitely worth a look. I’ve been wearing their women’s heated fleece vest all fall and have been thrilled with the quality and the fit. It’s more tapered and less boxy than others I’ve tried—the most flattering heated vest I’ve come across. In fall temps, it’s great as an outer layer on its own, or layer it under a heavier coat during the coldest weather. It has three heat settings, and the battery life is long; I cranked it to the highest setting for the bulk of a chilly campfire and it kept me warm all night. The heating elements all the way up the neck made a really toasty difference. The company also has heated sweatshirts, jackets, gloves, and socks, so they’ve got gift options in a variety of price ranges so you can check off lots of loved ones on your list!

Shop on venustas.com.

Art by Willow – Custom Embellished Horse Prints

How many of us would love to own—or to gift—a custom horse portrait but are hampered by the cost? Most of us? I met the lovely Willow Barnes at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio and she’s come up with a genius, and gorgeous, way to cut the cost of a custom without sacrificing quality: embellished horse prints. Using photos of your horse, she selects a base print—high-quality prints of her own paintings—in the color that best matches your horse, then customizes it by hand, adding markings, matching colors, etc.

She took these chestnut base prints and customized them to my Palomino gelding, Moose, and they’re spot-on. Right now, her base prints are stock horse builds, but the reception she’s received to this idea has been so positive that she’s hoping to branch out to other breed types in the future. This would be a lovely gift for barn owners, trainers, or dear horse friends that they’ll cherish for years to come.

Starting at $111 on artbywillow.com.

Horse Education Company – Hybrid Halters

Horse Education Company is another company I’ve loved for a while. My bulldozer of a Fjord has had a HEC hybrid halter for years and I love the extra control from the front knots paired with the ease of regular halter features for things like leading and tying. We upgraded this fall to the Classic Leather Hybrid Halter ($136) with a custom name plate and matching lead, and—unsurprisingly—found it brought the same level of extra control in a stunning leather look with impeccable craftsmanship. This will definitely be our going-out-into-the-world halter, and would make a great gift for anyone who likes the added control of a rope halter with the ease of a traditional one.

Starting at $45 on shop.horseeducation.com. 

The Original Muck Boot Company – Women’s Arctic Sport II

I’ve been a big fan of Muck Boots for years, and was in need of some new tall, insulated winter boots for working around the barn. These Arctic Sport II’s are really comfortable and very warm, and their neoprene is totally muck-resistant. They’re soft and flexible right out of the box, and the top has extra stretch (in really cute plaids) to hug your calf and keep out the cold. I went trick-or-treating in them (with my son the astronaut and Penelope the rocket ship) the day they arrived and they were so comfortable for our 1+ mile walk. Now we’re knee-deep (almost literally) in mud-season and these are my go-to for morning chores through night check. Put these on your own wish lists this year!

Staring at $135 (dependent on height) on muckbootcompany.com. 

Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians – Monthly Membership

A unique, useful gift for the best of your barn friends just might be a monthly membership to Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians. You get so much from membership, including a comprehensive video library with over 100 videos (with new content added regularly) sorted into categories and lengths to fit a variety of needs. The video library includes everything from 5-minute mini-sessions to 75-minute intensive studies into different skills and focuses. And there’s something for the very newest yogis to more advanced students. There are also options for online live classes and an active and supportive online community. This gift would be perfect for a friend who could use a little zen, or who would be interested in exploring how the practice of yoga could positively impact their riding.

Sign up for $35/month here.

Melissa and Doug Take-Along Show Horse Stable

This simple little barn, with its wooden stable and eight colorful steeds has been a favorite of my 4-year-old son since he received it two Christmases ago. The littlest of hands will love sliding ponies in and out of their stalls (when you turn them around, they can peer out the barn window). Slightly older kiddos will love more imaginative play. And with the realistic colors and coat patterns like palomino, Paint, gray, Appaloosa, and more, you, too, can have a toddler who knows the difference between a chestnut and a bay! This is also a great addition to the lounge of any barn that caters to little kids.

Shop for $41.99 (currently on sale for $21.99) on Amazon.

Kiel James Patrick – Highland Fox Sweater and More

I’d been eyeing these wool-blend fox sweaters from Kiel James Patrick, wondering whether they were worth the hype and the price tag. Turns out they are! They’re high quality, the colors are gorgeous, and the wool is so soft and warm. They’ve got several fox options (pullover and cardigan-style sweaters) as well as some adorable fox socks, and a children’s line that’s just adorable. Their entire collection is worth a look.

Shop on kieljamespatrick.com.

This article about Small Business Saturday equestrian shopping is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Gifts for the Home

Hand-Painted Porcelain Ornaments by Equestrian Artist Larissa Ann

For that equestrian who has it all, check out these gorgeous, limited-edition ornaments from fine artist Larissa Ann. They’re hand-painted with over 20 layers of paint for a level of depth and detail that has to be seen to be truly appreciated. You’re going to want one for your own tree, as well. Shop here.

Tartan Blanket Company: Recycled Wool Blanket

When I was setting up my son’s nursery, I splurged on one of these blankets from the Tartan Blanket Company (female owned, Scotland-based), and these are now go-to gifts. They may not be outwardly-equine, but the rich colors and gorgeously-soft wool would be a welcome to any equestrian’s home. I went with the Buchanan Antique Tartan color, but be prepared to get lost in all of the gorgeous color palates and other gift options on their site.

River Wood Forest Equine Gifts

I’m a sucker for anything Fjord, so I fell in love with River Wood Forest’s Scandinavian Winter Fjord designs, though the Etsy shop has all sorts of whimsical nature and animal-inspired designs by artist Tina Schofield. (There’s also a gorgeous Christmas Friesian design, too – just go to the Etsy store and search “horse” for all of their horse-themed gifts!) From throws to tote bags to dish towels to sweatshirts and skirts, there’s an option for just about anyone on your shopping list. Check out the Etsy store here.

Danielle Demers Stationery and Gift Tags

Add some luxury to your gift-giving game, or dress up your own cards and presents this season with gorgeous foil-stamped cards and gift tags by artist Danielle Demers. (Take it up another level with coordinating wax seals in horse, fox, or rosette designs!) And while you’re on the site, check out her wallpaper and original prints — shop here.

Gifts for the Barn

Smokey Hollow Maple Co. Hand-Made Stall Signs

If you’re looking for a thoughtful, personalized gift, these handmade stall signs are beautifully crafted, and their high-quality materials and craftsmanship are made to last. I have them in my own barn and they spark regular compliments. The variety of wood, stain, size and font options allow you to customize to your heart’s delight. Order by December 1 for guaranteed holiday delivery. Shop here.

MOSS Saddle Soaps

These soaps smell amazing, and — made from the highest-quality natural ingredients including goat’s milk glycerin — they’re great for your tack, too. These are a great gift for barn owners, trainers, or barn friends, and they make great stocking stuffers for the equestrians under your own roof (grab one for your own stocking, too). Scent options: Citrus Basil, Vanilla Bean, Tea Rose, and Lavender (there’s not a wrong choice, but the Vanilla Bean smells good enough to eat!). Find them here.

Lucky Braids Shampoo

As the snowflakes start to fall, maybe your trainer or best barn buddy is just dreaming of show season. Lucky Braids is my professional-groom-friend’s favorite shampoo for manes, tails, and bodies. It’s highly concentrated, so a bottle lasts longer than a show season does, and it solves and protects against common skin issues. Grab this must-have for the tack trunk here.

Gifts for the Equestrian

R. Riveter “Take the Leap” Handbags (And More!)

Equestrian artist and military veteran Larissa Ann teamed up with R. Riveter, a women-owned handbag company founded by military spouses. The “Take the Leap” collection features equestrian-themed handbags, sweatshirts, hats, blankets, and pewter ornaments whose signature winged horse will inspire those you love to take the leap to follow their dreams. There’s something for everyone in this collection – it’s definitely worth a look this season! Shop here.

Kastel Denmark Cabernet Tonal Crown ¼ Zip

The rich tones, high-tech fabrics, and perfect amount of bling of this Kastel riding top make it a perfect gift this season. It’s a great layering piece for cooler temps, or a wear-alone top in the spring or fall (with 30+ SPF, too). The polyester/spandex blend is buttery-soft and the feminine fit is super flattering. And it’s got to be said — the high-tech antibacterial and odor resistant properties keep you as fresh as you can be when riding or working around the barn! Check it out here.

Plus, enter to win a “discipline-branded” version of this shirt during our 12 Days of Christmas!

Blue Ribbon Beauty Equestrian Cosmetics

One of my most put-together horse friends, Amanda, swears by Blue Ribbon makeup, a brand created by Rachel Lavelle for women who get stuff done but want to look good doing it. All products are paraben- and cruelty-free to make you feel good about what’s going on your skin. Plus, with fun names like “Latigo and Lace” and “In the Irons” and playful designs by Lavelle herself, anything from Blue Ribbon would make a great gift or stocking stuffer! Visit the website here.

“Awakening with Equines” Card Deck

From equine-partnered coach, healer, author, and speaker Kate Neligan comes a gift for spiritually-centered equestrians: her “Awakening with Equines” Card Deck. 40 unique cards feature images (by artist Nica Ware) and text highlighting the emotional intelligence qualities that Neligan has gathered through decades of experience studying horses and psychology. It’s a perfect gift for anyone who adores horses and wants to understand them better, is interested in personal growth, and is inspired by beautiful, equestrian art. Locally sourced, women-owned, and a recipient of the Winnie Award at the Equus Film Festival. Check it out here.

Gifts for Kids and Teens

Equus Bell Saddle Pad Block-Printing Kits

If you’re looking for a gift for a crafty horse-loving kid or teen, you have to check out these saddle pad printing kits made by Indian-American equestrian Roxanne Khan. Combining her love of horses and her Indian heritage, Equus Bella’s saddle pad kits come with everything needed to block-print a custom saddle pad. The cotton and bamboo pads themselves are crafted in India by a professional quilt-maker, and piped with colors that coordinate with the selected pattern. Hand-carved blocks (think “wooden stamps”), paints, brushes/sponges, and detailed instructions are included in the kit, and it’s easy to create a treasured, unique useful saddle pad. Four patterns are available to choose from currently, with more options coming for the holidays. Visit their website here.

This small business equestrian gift guide is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Ariat Cruisers

Speaking of blurring that line between barn and civilization, I loved my first pair of Ariat Cruisers so much that I ended up buying a second ($94.95). My original pair (that I promised myself would not become a barn shoe) became a barn shoe, especially for those quick little trips to check on a horse, drop something off, or throw hay in the morning before work.

They’re really comfortable, super-easy to slide on and off, and look cute with jeans, shorts, or even breeches. So I gave in, let the originals follow their calling as barn shoes, and I now own a second pair that is truly reserved for excursions into the real world, including work. A number of styles are currently on sale on Ariat’s website, and I just snagged two more pairs in new patterns for less than $40 a piece.

◆ Shop at Ariat.com 

Kerrits Fall Riding Line and EQL Jeans

Kerrits has always been one of my favorite brands for breeches, and I actually still have a few pairs from the late 1990s in my closet. They hold up. But while I’ve been eyeballing their EQL casual clothing line at events like the Kentucky Three-Day Event and Equine Affaire, I’d never felt like taking the time to try on any of their casual clothing. But this summer, at a local tack shop’s annual tent sale, I was the lucky winner of a $250 Kerrits gift certificate. The ladies at The Carousel Horse suggested that I wait for Kerrits’ fall line to come in, and when it did, I was really impressed. Kerrits has maintained their signature style while introducing contemporary colors and patterns. And their high-tech fabrics are both warm and breathable without impeding movement — necessary around here as the weather gets cold and we have to layer up.

I went home with their Bits of Plaid Quilted Vest ($109), which I’m hoping to wear to work a few times before it becomes barn-wear, and a super-soft and warm On Course Quarter Zip Fleece Tech Top ($74) that will be perfect for teaching and riding this fall and winter.

Then, The Carousel Horse ladies mentioned Kerrits’ new EQL jeans, and said that there were a few styles that had come in that even they hadn’t tried yet. I struggle with pants fit (my butt is a size bigger than my waist) but I ended up really liking the In-Motion Bootcut Jean ($99) with a raw hem. The jeans are a little lighter weight with more stretch than what I normally wear, but they’re really comfortable and flattering, and the detailing at the bottom of each leg is a little something different. These have become my go-to Friday “denim-day” jeans for work this fall.

◆ Shop at Kerrits.com 

Muck Boots

As farm owners, my husband and I have a rather large boot collection. I have boots for riding, boots for barn chores, and boots that can do both. My husband is usually in some kind of work boot, preferring something he can slip on and wear comfortably all day.

We’ve always been Muck fans for their durability and comfort, but two additions to their current lineup have been pleasant surprises.

My husband has been really liking Muck’s Mens Western Chore Mid Boot ($140), with a similar rubber foot and neoprene top to Muck’s classic style, but with a much slimmer, western boot profile. The square toe and reinforced heel makes this a boot that can easily convert from barn chores to riding, unlike Muck’s traditional work boots which don’t safely fit into stirrups. My husband, who is not often found on any of our horses, still prefers this more streamlined fit just for working around the farm. He says they feel more secure in the heel and less bulky than traditional Mucks. Last weekend, when the majority of his day was spent repairing things that the horses had broken, he said his feet were comfortable and cool in these boots all day long.

And since our temps have dropped, I’ve been slipping on Muck’s Outscape Max Ankle Boots ($135) every morning before work to take care of the horses. These boots are great. They slide on and off hands-free, a necessity when I’m rushing out the door carrying everything but the kitchen sink. The sole is really rugged and grippy, which I appreciate when I’m leading horses out to their pastures in the dark, especially when it’s been rainy and the ground is soft and I’m running late, dressed in work clothes. And with a footbed that is incredibly light and comfortable, this is another Muck boot that could easily be worn all day long. (Though I toss mine in the trunk after chores on the way to work!)

◆ Shop at MuckBootCompany.com

Dapplebay Riding Top

When an ad for Dapplebay’s riding top in a French toile de Jouy pattern ($58) appeared on my social media, I visited the website and contemplated the shirt. While I’d found myself on Dapplebay’s site a few times before, I’d never committed to a purchase (you know, the whole mental game of “do I need this, or do I want this?”). But something about this classic blue and white pastoral pattern made my “want” win over, and I completed my order. I am usually an end-of-season sale shopper and rarely pay full price for something that I don’t need, but I loved the look of this pattern and was curious about the quality.

When it arrived, I was more than pleased: the fabric is buttery soft; the colors are beautiful and the pattern crisp. Reviews said that this particular shirt tended to run small, so I ordered one size up and the fit was perfect. I was so in love with the design that I went back for the matching saddle pad, too. The shirt is currently sold out, but you can ask to be notified when it’s back in stock.

◆ Shop at Dapplebay.com

Hay Chix Nets

Now that we’re back on daytime turnout in western Pennsylvania, my horses are spending a little more time in their stalls, and I’m so grateful for my HayChix Free Up Feeder hay nets (starting at $110). The large majority of my equines are really easy keepers, but I’m a firm believer in free-choice hay (despite my Fjord occasionally looking like an overstuffed sausage). I was also so sick of waste — watching my 30+ gelding pull his expensive, third-cut hay into the middle of his stall and pee all over it made me want to cry. So when we built our barn, I splurged on Hay Chix nets and swear that they’ve paid for themselves several times over in just two years. I spent the extra $30 per stall on the wider opening (24” x 24”) and am glad I did; between the larger frame and the really easy to use hardware, I can open and close the frame one-handed and never have to set hay on the floor.

Hay Chix advertises that you can open and fill each in less than thirty seconds, and they’re not lying. And for the MacGyvers in your barn who will figure out that if they pop the net hard enough from the bottom with their noggins to undo the latch themselves, there’s a pin you can put in to prevent them opening it (I’m looking at you, Waffles). We fill the nets at night, and most of my crew still has hay in their nets in the morning — which makes both my anxious horse-mom mind and wallet feel good!

◆ Shop on HayChix.com

With these fall equestrian gear picks, you’re sure to be set for barn chores and riding this season. Embrace the beauty of fall while staying comfortable and chic, whether you’re in the saddle or just out enjoying the crisp air.

This fall equestrian gear list is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Despite sparse coverage on national news, the devastation left in Hurricane Helene’s wake is unimaginable, according to those with boots on the ground in North Carolina. According to military and government personnel, due to the storm’s extensive damage, rescue and relief efforts will continue for weeks and months as they attempt to aid people and animals stranded in the wake of this recent storm, especially those in rural, mountain towns.

One of my little riding lesson students once said that making new friends at the barn is really easy, “because horse people are just different.” And as an adult, I can’t agree with her more. Equestrians are a different breed, and when our fellow horse lovers or their beloved animals are in need of help, our community is always ready to help. So here’s what you need to know:

First and Foremost: Civilians, Please Stay Home!

Government officials, military leaders, are insisting that civilians stay out of affected areas, including Asheville, Boone, and Candor. It has continued to rain in many of the heavily affected areas since the start of the storm, so the water hasn’t had time to recede. Access to many of the small, rural, mountain towns is impossible by motor vehicle; many affected areas are currently only accessible by air due to washed out roadways or landslides. There have also been episodes of violence upon relief workers and people bringing food or supplies into the area because the people stranded in these mountain areas are getting very desperate. Civilians who want to help should not attempt to enter these areas. Trained professionals like police and members of the military need to be able to do their jobs, and untrained civilians trying to help end up doing more harm than good. They block roadways, and often get themselves into situations that they need rescued from, taking time and resources from rescue efforts.

The Best Way to Help is with Your Wallet

In these first days, rescue efforts are focused mainly on human lives — and in reality, animals can only receive the care they need if their humans also have their most basic necessities met.

But animal and equine rescue organizations are mobilizing, and these organizations will be working for weeks and months ahead.

Currently, the best way to help is to donate.

Here are some organizations that will be in desperate need of financial support in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead:

◆ American Red Cross North Carolina: In order for animals to get the care and help that they need, their humans need to be safe as well. To make a financial donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767), text HELENE to 90999, or donate online.

◆ Operation Airdrop ensures that essential supplies reach those in need when ground transportation is compromised. For more information about Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts, visit here.

◆ Animal Search and Rescue (ASAR) is staged in Statesville and providing immediate relief for animals in the mountains. Visit here to help.

◆ Fleet of Angels is an equine-specific rescue organization that is currently organizing vets, equine supplies, and relief for horses. To help equines affected by Hurricane Helene, donate to the most urgent need or natural disaster fund here.

◆ The Humane Society of the United States is also in action in the Southeast, supporting animals. Please visit here to donate.

◆ Green River Foundation: If you are interested in making a financial contribution to recovery efforts, you may write a check to the Green River Foundation and mail to the above address with “Hurricane Helene relief” in the memo. 100% of your donation will go to the relief efforts in Polk, Rutherford, Henderson and Buncombe Counties in North Carolina and Spartanburg County, South Carolina. 100% of the contribution will be tax deductible.

◆ Tryon International is hosting first responders. Beginning Thursday, October 3, a supply distribution and donation drop off point will be open from 10 a.m. -6 p.m. daily for free supplies available to anyone who needs them, for humans, pets and livestock. This distribution center will operate as a drive-through, staffed with volunteers and Tryon International team members, as part of the Polk County network of disaster relief locations. Follow signs for drive-through pick up or drop off of supplies.

Location:
2676 John Shehan Rd,
Mill Spring, NC 28756

Limited showers and laundry facilities are available at the Lodging Office building at 2676 John Shehan Road. Please bring your own towels for shower facilities, and expect a wait.

Thursday, October 3, a free community meal will be provided near the Tryon International Lodging Office, with more information to come.

How to Help with Tryon’s Efforts:

Donations are being accepted starting Wednesday, October 2 for the supply distribution and donation drop off point, starting at 10 a.m. at the Indoor Complex at Tryon International. The following items are being requested:

◆ Water
◆ Non-perishable food items
◆ Hygiene items
◆ Baby formula and diapers
◆ Towels
◆ Socks and underwear
◆ First-aid kits
◆ Batteries and flashlights
◆ Portable chargers/battery packs
◆ Animal hay and feed, pet food, and kitty litter
◆ Shovels, tarps, chainsaws, and work gloves
◆ Hand sanitizer
◆ Buckets and trash bags
◆ Coolers

Please contact media@tryon.com if you would like to volunteer to receive donations or to help distribute items to community members.

Many have asked if they can ship donations to Tryon to distribute to the first responders and via our pending supply center. The answer is yes: if you are unable to physically bring donations but want to ship supplies to Tryon International for distribution, you can do so at the below address.

Tryon International
Attn: Hurricane Donations
4066 Pea Ridge Road
Mill Spring, NC 28756

All Tryon International restaurants will be opened starting Wednesday, October 2, to support our community, guests and first responders on-site. They will continue offering all-you-can-eat buffets that have previously been offered in Campagna Italian Cuisine, relocating to Legends Club.

The post Hurricane Helene Relief: Donations Needed for Human, Equine, and Other Animal Aid appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

When her father’s military career took Amanda Delgado’s family to Japan when she was in high school, her beloved horses couldn’t come along.

“I was lost without them,” she says. “I was ‘the horse girl’ growing up. Horses defined me.”

After high school, Delgado followed in her father’s footsteps and joined the Army. Her own military travel made horse ownership impossible, but no matter where she was stationed, she’d find nearby stables where she could volunteer. She just wanted to be around horses.

A Horse In Need

Fast forward several years, and Delgado was volunteering regularly with a rescue near her home in North Carolina. One day, the organization received a phone call that would change Delgado’s life.

A little red mare, the caller said, was in desperate need of help. She was emaciated and practically feral. She shared a pasture with a rusted-out Volkswagen and the skeletons of former pasture-mates.

Delgado and her team loaded a vehicle with supplies and drove almost an hour to assess the situation.

“My heart skipped a beat when I saw her for the first time,” Delgado recalls. “There was something special about that horse.”

But that horse was also very scared. Volunteers could barely touch her, so they left clean water and a mountain of hay and promised to return. The rescue was full, so the horse needed an immediate home. Two potential adopters met the horse, but both turned her down.

That night, Delgado tossed and turned in bed. She couldn’t get the mare off her mind.

Gaining Trust

The next morning, after a third potential adopter passed on the horse, Delgado stepped up.

“I said I’d take her,” she says. “Everyone thought she was dangerous, but I knew that she was just misunderstood.”

She began making daily visits to the mare, but couldn’t get near her with a halter: if the horse felt cornered, she’d paw, kick, or plow through volunteers.

So Delgado tried a new tactic: she sat on the ground with a bucket of grain. If the mare wanted to eat, she had to come to Delgado, who spoke quietly, earning the mare’s trust. After four days, she was able to slip the halter over the horse’s head and lay hands on her trembling skin.

The horse needed a name, and Delgado wanted something to reflect both her nature and her journey. She named the mare Athena after the Greek goddess of war, who, like the horse, was both elegant and resilient. The goddess, fittingly, was also the inventor of the halter and bridle—the original tamer of horses.

After two weeks of basic groundwork and endless patience, Delgado was able to coax Athena onto a trailer and transport her to the rescue.

An Unfortunate Injury

But just hours after her arrival, Athena sliced her deep digital flexor tendon on a round pen panel. The initial stitches didn’t hold, and then a flesh-eating bacteria ate its way down to the bone.

“Several vets suggested euthanasia,” says Delgado. “But I couldn’t. I had to give her a chance.”

One vet agreed to attempt a surgical repair of Athena’s leg, but warned Delgado that the horse may never be rideable. Delgado didn’t care—she just wanted her horse to have the chance to be loved.

After the surgery, Athena was prescribed several months of strict stall rest. Delgado drove to the barn daily and sat in Athena’s stall, reading The Black Stallion out loud and offering the mare comfort and support.

Four months after the injury, Athena was cleared for simple groundwork. Two months later, against the odds, she was given the all-clear to carry a rider.

Saddling Up

While saddling Athena for that first ride, Delgado remembers how carefully she observed her horse’s body language. The mare had a reputation for being touchy and explosive, and everyone watching expected fireworks.

“But when I put my foot in that stirrup, Athena looked back at me,” she remembers. “I had this overwhelming feeling that she trusted me, and that I could trust her.”

Delgado swung a leg over the mare’s back. Athena stood completely still. And then she yawned.

“I had tears in my eyes,” says Delgado. “I just kept thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, everyone said this wasn’t going to happen, but we did it!’”

Despite a tumultuous past, Athena excelled under saddle due to the strong bond she had developed with Delgado.

“When I rode her canter for the first time, I felt like I was home,” she recalls.

Eventually, Delgado was ready to take Athena to her first show. Athena, under the name “Athenian Lady,” loved the new environments and challenges of showing, and the pair competed at local open shows. They were often in the ribbons, and—more importantly—Delgado felt that Athena was enjoying herself.

Knowing that her horse had more to offer, Delgado sought out opportunities for the mare at higher levels. But moving beyond open shows came with new roadblocks: Athena had no registration papers.

Delgado was able to register her in the Pinto Horse Association of America (PtHA), but she didn’t always feel like they fit in among the well-bred stock horses in their hunter under saddle classes.

Regardless, in 2018, Delgado and Athena set off for the first PtHA World Show, where Delgado stumbled on the new discipline of western dressage.

“I watched a class and thought, ‘Athena could do this,’” she says. “Athena has big movements. She doesn’t move like the pleasure stock horses, and I wasn’t going to try to force her to. I’ve never wanted make her into something that she’s not.”

Western Dressage Accolades

The pair placed well at the 2018 World Show, earning top-5 and top-10 awards in hunter under saddle classes. But Delgado was intrigued by western dressage. She loved how the discipline—a mix of ranch riding and classical dressage—emphasizes safe, sound, happy horses.

Delgado began competing in western dressage in 2019, finding the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) extremely welcoming.

“Since I met Athena, most people focused on what we couldn’t do, because of her past, or because she was a rescue, or because she wasn’t registered,” says Delgado. “So many people said, ‘You won’t be able to ride her. You can’t show her. A rescue horse won’t be a world champion.’

“[But] WDAA opened their arms to us. When they learned that Athena was a rescue, their response was, ‘She is? Great! We have awards for that!’”

In 2019, Delgado and Athena returned to the PtHA World Show. Not only did Athena win her western dressage division, but she had the highest score out of any dressage ride at the event, including classical dressage performances and professional riders. Athena and Delgado were two-time World Champions, Reserve Champion, and placed twice in the top 10.

But even more exciting was that Delgado and her mare had found their place in the showing world. They’d found Athena’s gift and passion. They found a place where Athena was respected and appreciated for exactly who she was.

They’ve also found a level of success that Delgado would never have imagined, winning multiple World Championships (among other honors) at the WDAA World Championship Show in 2020, 2021, and 2023.

Delgado has set their sights on the 2024 WDAA International Challenge and the 2024 World Championship Show.

Becoming a Breyer

But perhaps their biggest news for 2024: Athena will be immortalized as the Celebration Horse at this year’s BreyerFest.

“I thought it was a prank,” Delgado says, remembering when she received an email from representatives at Breyer. But it wasn’t.

Delgado was invited to a virtual call with Breyer. The 2024 theme had not been announced publicly, and she was sworn to secrecy: “Against All Odds” would feature stories of triumph over adversity, advancement in the face of disbelief, and defying expectations at every turn—a perfect match for Athena.

“Athena’s story resonates with so many people; everyone goes through tough times, but those experiences don’t have to define you,” says Delgado.

“I love that Athena represents both beauty and strength,” said equestrian artist Larissa Ann Ray, Delgado’s close friend and neighbor. “That mare is so powerful, but she moves like a ballerina. She has overcome difficult challenges with grit and grace. I can’t wait for her story to inspire so many more young girls this summer.”

Athena and Delgado will be on-site at BreyerFest, held at the Kentucky Horse Park from July 12-14. They’ll be signing autographs and doing riding demonstrations throughout the event.

“I’m really excited for everyone to see their relationship,” says Ray. “They’re magic to watch. Athena knows how much Amanda loves her and tries so hard for her. It’s a real privilege to see them together.”

While it may seem like Delgado changed Athena’s life more than the other way around, Delgado sees it otherwise.

“This horse has completely changed my life,” she says. “She’s my best friend and my partner. She’s beautiful and resilient; graceful and strong. There’s no quit in her. And for her story to be immortalized … it’s an honor and a dream come true.”

For More: Listen to our Barn Banter episode with Amanda Delgado about Athenian Lady’s story.

This article about Athenian Lady appeared in the July 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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