Leighton Farm

"Making the most of each Thoroughbred."

 

Home Up 2007-2008 2009 2010

 

Trick of the Tale

"Sparky" was purchased from the Fasig-Tipton Timonium Sale.  He was one of two that my husband bought.  These were his first experiences with racehorse ownership.  Precocious as a youngster, Sparky made it to the races first.  Unfortunately, he was a very slow racehorse.  He loved the game, but lacked talent.  After two very disappointing starts we decided to retire him.  At this point he was sound, but his age, two years old, small size made him a difficult prospect for sale.

My husband said he learned from this that they may be a thoroughbred, but that doesn't mean they're a racehorse.  We gave Sparky to a 16 year old girl, who along with her mother, turned him into an event horse.    Eventers are not allowed to compete until they are four years old, so you can imagine their financial commitment to this horse.

 

 

Apprehension

"Big Head" was one of the kindest horses I've ever known.  A gentle giant, he was eager to please us.  I can't ever remember him refusing to do as asked.  We had high hopes for this horse because he showed so much potential.

After a good half mile breeze, he bled so badly it was decided to retire him.  The veterinarians were sure that we would not be able to control the bleeding for racing.  "There aren't enough drugs in the world" was the exact quote.

Big Head stood 17.1 hands and had a fabulous temperament.  These facts and his retirement before racing enabled us to sell him for $4,000.  He is now a successful eventer.

 

 

Where's My Papers

"Grettel" was a filly that tried her best when at the races.  She was a cheap turf horse and this is not a lucrative type of racehorse to have.  After two seasons in which she consistently got checks in the lower turf claimers, the decision was made to retire her.  She was sound, but had ankles.  Time and space at the farm were limited, so we did not attempt to sell her. 

Grettel was given to a great couple who rescue horses.  She was not a rescue, but their plan for her was to compete at dressage.  Grettel has shown one season and has been professionally trained.

 

 

Active Andy

"Panda" is a small horse who turned out to be a cheap claimer.  After several tries at Maiden $8,500, his ankles became sore.  He wasn't a horse who could deal with discomfort.  We decided that to continue to compete him would be a losing proposition.

Panda, who is now called Andy, for obvious reasons is an event horse. 

After a period of rest, his ankles were able to take the rigors of this sport.  He has shown talent for this sport and has a bright future.

 

 

2007

 

 

 

Charolais

"Charlie" was acquired in the set of two. He was by Holy Bull and fetched $75,000 as a yearling.  He then went on to make over $40,000 for his connections.  I got him along with Grandy when they were both in tremendous trouble.

 

Charlie was a wonderful horse to ride, so I used him to teach one of my riders to gallop racehorses.  He did everything a racehorse does, without any malice.  Jigging, taking hold, and generally being full of himself at all times.  His knees would not hold up to the rigors of racing so he has retired and become a racetrack pony.  He in fact is the outrider's pony, a very prestigious job at the track.

See him in action in February 2009.  I'm so proud of him.  This is what Lisa said,

Kim,

 Take a gander at this video of Charles in action.  I can’t thank you enough for letting me have him!

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8MJA3tThg4

Paste into browser and prepare to be as proud of him as I am.

 Lisa McKlveen

 

October 16, 2009 - Kim

Here is a good one for you. As you know Charles is a wonderful, exceptional, and very talented horse. So what he did today may or may not surprise you.

When I outrode the races today, in the rain…again, I rode Charles. He did well all day despite his objections to getting wet…The bum has a rain sheet on and is not getting that wet.

It is the last race…. I have had to gallop around to the paddock to wait for the field of horses to run by before I can go back to the barn. I have been dreading having to clean up a grey horse on such a dismal muddy day. I am watching the field get closer when one of them breaks down…looks bad from where I am, by the paddock. Charles and I gallop down the front side toward the winner’s circle and pull up next to the horse that has, as I can see better, broken its left front leg. Charles places himself under the filly’s head and helps to calm her as the trainer is with her too. When the horse ambulance pulls up, the trainer says he just wants to put her down. He is clearly distraught. Unfortunately the horse is right in front of the grandstand. The vet suggests it would be best if the horse could be loaded into the ambulance and matters taken care of more privately. The trainer says “No please just put her down here, she is a bad loader and I am afraid she isn’t going to get on the ambulance.” The vet then recommends that the leg splint be put on the horse and to at least try to get her onto the ambulance. The trainer slowly agrees. The ambulance is lowered to ground level, the splint is placed on the leg, and the filly is maneuvered into position behind the ambulance. Charles and I move to her offside facing the back of the ambulance. The trainer tries to load her and she stops. Charles nudges her butt with his shoulder, she takes another step but then she stops again. Charles then reaches over with his nose and gently touches her side as if to say “it’s ok, you can get on there, I am here right beside you”. Just like she understood him, she walked (hobbles) onto the trailer without much more trouble. Charles almost loaded in there with her without any reservations. Knowing Charles past with trailers, that was pretty amazing all by itself.

I am sorry the filly will have to be destroyed, but I am glad that at some point, during her worst time, Charles was there to comfort her. He truly showed how wonderful he was today. It takes a special horse to stand with another when they are in such distress and pain. He has now moved to Gold Status in my outriders book. I just had to share that with you and keep you updated.
 

Thanks again for such a great horse,  Lisa McKlveen

 

 

Ernabel

"Ponelle" earned $130,000 in her career as a turf specialist.  Her stretch run was exhilarating.  She is one of the most honest horses I've ever known.  She always gave her best.  Bred and owned by the same owner, she is now back where she was raised.

I had the privilege of both breaking and training this wonderful horse.  At the end of her 6 year old season, it was decided to retire her to the breeding shed.  I hope her babies are as great as she is.

 

 

 

 

 

Satrap

"Ben" as he is now called found a home in North Carolina.  He is currently showing and will enter stud duty for show horses in the future.  His new owner exclaims "I never thought I'd have a horse as nice as this!"  I think dreams came true for both horse and new owner.  Good Luck Ben.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alleged Charge

"Goose" is the first horse that was sent to me from a new owner in Texas.  He and four others are here to race on the east coast.  Unfortunately, he did not make it as a racehorse.  The owner/breeder wanted to be sure that he was placed with someone who would love and care for him.  Lucky for him, Noble Cloud's owner decided she needed another horse from the track.  He will be retrained for her daughter to ride.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casting Red Gold

October 2007

"Goldie" was bred and owned by people I train for.  They raised her on their farm.  She did not show any potential on the racetrack, so I decided to retire her and send her home.  Goldie was there for almost five months when I became aware that they had sold her. 

Fortunately, I happened to call just after she'd been loaded on the horse van.  They had unknowingly sold her to a dealer who contracts with largest meat dealer on the east coast.  I was frantic and called Lisa Amarino who, as always, knew what to do.  She got hold of a contact who knew the dealer.  An arrangement was reached where I would buy Goldie.  Yes, I bought her.  I will say the dealer was kind enough to ship her to my area and charged me a fair price.  I knew what he paid for her.  I've since schooled these owners to the evils that are out there.  I was able to sell Goldie to get my money back.  She has a fabulous home in Philadelphia where she is loved very much.

June 7, 2009 - Hi!  I know it's been awhile, but I stumbled across your website again and thought I send you an update on a horse I bought from you a little over a year ago--Goldie (Casting Red and Gold) now called Callie around the barn. She is doing very well and has really matured over the past couple months. She has been to a few shows (I wish we could have been to a lot more just life sometimes gets in the way!!) She placed 1st and 2nd at her first dressage show and had a great time at her first schooling starter event a few weeks ago. She is a goof--constantly following you around, grabbing anything she can get a hold of--papers, halters, cell phones, etc--just to get my attention. Attached are a few pictures if your interested, hope all is well. Goldie says hi :)  Sincerely, Kristin M.
 

 

Ataka Steal

November 2007

"Stealer" was bred and owned by people I train for.  He came all the way from Texas.  Stealer's quiet demeanor offered a clue that he might not be a great racehorse.

After two starts it was clear that another line of work would be the wise course of action to take.

A very good friend of mine, Cherie Chauvin, of Golightly Sporthorses has purchased him.   She plans to school him to be an eventer.  Cherie feels he has a ton of potential.  I know he couldn't be in better hands.

Well, Stealer just went to his first dressage schooling show, February 2008 and he had a first and second place!!

 

 

 

 

Ataka Dilemma

November 2007

"Stony" was also bred and owned by people I train for.  He is also from Texas.

Stony ran only three times and the best race he was beaten fifteen lengths.

He at the same farm that JayJay is at.  The teenage girls that come there to ride adore him.  The farm owner purchased him for herself.  He has the potential to be a great riding and jumping horse.

 

 

 

 

 

Rocky Times

November 2007

"Rocky" was owned in part by me and his breeders.  They raised him on their farm. 

He showed a small amount of talent as a racehorse, but the partners were having trouble paying the bills.

It was decided to sell him, rather than continue to race him.  He is such a beautiful horse that it really was the right decision.  Rocky was purchased as an event prospect by a young couple.  We wish them the best.

 

 

 

November 8, 2009 - Hi Kim!

Just wanted to give you another update on our Hewie... he has been going extremely well at the Preliminary level and it going to a spring 1*. I've attatched some photos from his fall horse trials, we love him to bits!

I'm also in the market for some new horses, hopefully as close to Hewie as I can get them.. one or two for myself and also I'm looking for one for my SO as a gift. He's 6'1 so has to be a little bit taller, at least 16'1.


Have any ideas? Would love to hear from you!

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue Agent

November 2007

"Revy" was my baby horse.  I love that horse!!  I kept him in training much longer than I should have business-wise.  I just loved to gallop him.  Actually, I loved to look at him.  Just the sight of that cute face was enough to put me in a great mood for the day.

Upon retirement of the Gray Monster, I had to make the decision to let the Mighty Rev go.  She would no longer be supporting all of the "bums".  I was fortunate enough to sell him to a wonderful and very accomplished event rider and trainer.  Revy will be traveling to Florida for the winter.  I guess my boy made it to the high life!

Here's a copy of an email I received in February 2008.

Hi Kim,I thought I would give you an update on my little Revy-horse!! He is so wonderful and went to his first show two weeks ago. He is a fabulous jumper,lovely  mover and has a great attitude.  He did spend most of his dressage test crying for his pasture buddy but he was still very good.  You can see the pics of him at the show at http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/ThumbPage.aspx?e=3483840&g=08JQ011C5Y.  I will keep you posted but I love my little boy!! He is so great!!!!
Mary

Revy and Mary in March 2008.

Revy has now finished second in Training Level in July 2008.

He is the best.  I love seeing his adorable face over his stall door in the morning.  My husband can hold him at a horse show with two dogs and video camera and he stands like a gentleman. He is such a workman and learns very quickly and his athleticism and movement are unbelievable. He is gotten so quiet and relaxed the vet had trouble finding his pulse!!!  I am so lucky to have found him.   I will keep you posted in his progress and hopefully we will make it back to the east coast sometime soon!  Mary

September 15, 2008 - Just thought I would give you an update on Revy.  He was 3rd at the American Eventing Championships in Chicago this past weekend out of 38 horses!  He was with the best in the country and was outstanding.  He also won the Heritage Park horse trials 3 weeks ago.  Here is a picture that was on the Chronicle of the Horse that was taken on Cross Country in the pouring rain! He was unphased as usual!

 

 

 

 

 

Money Gone South

December 2007

"Patty" is also going to be an event horse.  Her new owner will be sending her to a trainer in North Carolina.

This is a very intelligent and sweet mare.  Interestingly, her new owner purchased her when she was working in Iraq.

She boarded her with me until she arrived safely in NC.  Then arranged for her to be shipped to her new trainer.  I know Patty has a wonderful new owner and a bright future.

I heard from Patty's owner in February and she told me she is excelling in her Parelli training.  She is also now called Tonic.  Personally, I like the new name much better than Patty.

 

 

 

Bob's Hawk

December 2007

"Bob" is off to "hunter school".  With his looks he'll be Champion in no time flat.  He was purchased by a 17 year old girl who, with the help of her trainer, will be developing Bob into a show hunter.

I can't wait for pictures of this gorgeous horse in the show ring.  We wish Bob and his new owner and trainer all the luck.

 

Below is an email from his new owners!

Bob started ground pole & cavalletti work last week!   He just marched right through again & again like he’s been doing it forever.  He has such a great attitude & what a smart guy.  His right lead is coming along really well.  Mary Kate has been doing so much bending work with him it makes me dizzy watching them do so many circles & figure eights.  It makes us laugh at how pokey he is & that she has to carry a crop.  She’s been also doing a lot of work with him lengthening and shortening his stride.  Nothing seems to faze him & he tries to do all that’s been asked of him.  She played around clipping his ears, etc. recently & he just fell asleep.  Must like the buzzing!  I’ll get some video of him in the next week or so & send it.  Mary Kate couldn’t be happier with him.

 

 

 

 

JT Wonder

January 2008

"JT", what can I tell you about this horse.  Wonderful, sweet and eager to please is a good description.  I miss him, although I knew when I took him to my farm, he would be sold.

The great news is he hit the jackpot when he found his new owner.  He lives at the most lovely farm.  Everyone I met there was very nice.  His owner tells me that he is learning everyday and a star at the barn.  I'm not surprised a bit.

JT's new owner adores him and has now given him a new name, he's now called Orion.  What a lucky horse.

 

 

 

 

 

Where's Garvin

January 2008

"Garvin" was my boy.  I really miss him.  I never met a horse that wanted a job more.

When I'd go out to the field to bring in a horse to train, here came Garvin running "OOoo, Pick me, pick me, I want to train."

He'd play with a jolly ball endlessly.  Each time I'd walk by his stall, there it was out front.  I pick it up and put it back in, he tosses it out.  

What a smart and friendly horse.  He is at the same farm as Peanut, Stony and JayJay.  I wonder what they talk about.

September 2009 - Good morning!! I wanted to send you a note to let you know how fantastic Garvin is doing. I have attached some recent shots of him - he can jump the moon!! Currently in training at 3'3" level moving up to 3'6". He is a remarkable mover and has really become a solid guy. I can't tell you how much I love working with him and seeing how far he has come.

Warmest Regards,
Jill
 

 

 

 

SnowflakeKisses

February 2008

Snowflake now has a new name.  It's Ninette, because her new owner vetted nine horses over a year to find her.

I am proud to say I think it's the perfect match.  I knew Ninette for two years before she retired as a racehorse.  I always admired her lady like qualities and intelligence.  She had many fans at Bowie Training Center.  That's quite a feat for a mediocre racehorse.  The great runners usually have the fan base.  She was so special, she just drew you in.

I'm happy to say I don't think this mare could have a better home.  She is destined to show her class as an eventer in the future.  I think the competition better look out!

Ninette at her new home with Sophie, her new friend.

You can find out more about the wonderful farm and training she is receiving by going to

Mayadinya Farm on the net.

 

 

 

Marula Tree

February 2008

Marula Tree, thoroughbred gelding who is now going by Rebel.

He is destined for the hunter ring after an appropriate lay up.  A family purchased him after searching for a horse for a very long time.

When they met this guy, Bailey knew he was the one and now he belongs to a very talented young rider.

He's such a ham.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saigon Gold

February 2008

What can I say about this girl?  She's a PA bred and could have been sent to Penn National to race.  Instead, her owner/breeder/trainers elected first to turn her out so she could continue to grow.  Then they decided she should have another line of work.

This girl never even breezed.  Simply because in the expert judgement of her connections, she wouldn't hold up.  Rather than risk an injury to prove this, they decided to let her use her talents in a less demanding way.  I wish more trainers had this good judgment.

 

 

 

 

West Friendship

March 2008

West Friendship is a fantastic horse with a brilliant future.  It's so exciting when the right person finds the right horse.  That's what happened in this case.

This horse has extreme natural talent and when he learns what his job is there will be no stopping him.

He has a rider with the talent to take him to the top!  I'm very excited to see this pair working together as a team.  The first time they trained together there was an immediate connection. 

 

Hi Kim,
I know I haven't given you an update in about forever, but I finally decided that it was better late than never. Wes has been absolutely amazing since I got him and has not put a foot wrong in all his training. He did great at Waredaca Beginner Novice at the end of May at his first recognized horse trial and he finished in 4th. This was quite an amazing feat considering that he had never schooled cross country except for the one elementary starter trial we did and was just getting balanced enough to canter a 20 meter circle. In addition to his greenness, Wes had been at the trial all day because I had taken my older horse Training in the morning. Plus, the footing was horrible because it had been pouring rain all day (including when I road my other horse). All in all, he was absolutely fabulous. On the downside, right after the trial he got kicked in the field square in the forehead and we found out that he had fractured his skull. We were very lucky that the injury was not more serious, but as it was he got the summer off. I brought him back slowly this fall and he was doing better than ever. I decided not to move him up this fall, opting instead to wait until spring. However, I took him to a James Stuart (advanced level event rider) clinic last weekend and he was just great. He did a gymnastic with three bounces to two one strides to a two stride, and although he thought it was a bit much to ask, he went through it with some encouragement. The next day he did all the beginner novice fences and some novice fences at the cross country field without even thinking about refusing. The lump on his head hasn't gone down all the way, so we ended up sending x-rays to New Bolton Center, and they told us that he was fine to ride now but he might have problems eventually if left as he is, because he has a dead bone fragment where the fracture was. So, we scheduled him for an appointment to have it removed right after the clinic. Unfortunately, he turned up with a fever, so we had to postpone the surgery. It has been rescheduled for Dec 1. So anyway, that's the story with what Wes has been doing for the past several months. I will be sure to update you on how the surgery goes.

Sincerely,
Alex

 

August 2009 - I thought I'd give you an update on Wes. As you know he has sustained a couple of pasture injuries since I got him, but he is now back up and running and doing fabulous! He has proved himself an absolutely fabulous mover with a wonderful disposition and a powerful jump. I'm eventing him novice now and plan to move him up to training in the fall. Here is a link to a video of my trainer schooling him at home: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcsD8v0ACgg. Hope everything is going well for you!



 

 

 

Aritelli

March 2008

Ari was in trouble through no fault of his own.  As you can see in the picture to the right he was definitely hungry.

His owner was tired of him and two other mares, Frederick Road and Grittle.  Grittle being 21 years old.  The three were on the way to the kill pens.

I wish no horse had to endure such suffering and disrespect, but I was able to intervene in this case.

This guy is now the proud owner of a gal recently discharged from the Marines!!  He's in the right hands now.

 

 

Frederick Road

March 2008

This beautiful 8 year old mare was on her way to the kill pens when I was told of her fate.  She and two others were in big trouble.

One was the gelding Aritelli and the other the old mare Grittle.

 

Freddy as her new owner calls her is at the same farm as Ari.

 

 

Monster Chaser

March 2008

 

 

Monster Chaser was a very good racehorse who retired completely sound.

He has now retired from racing and gone to Delaware to begin his new career as a show horse.

With his intelligence, class and good looks, he's bound to be a star.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Al Bundy

March 2008

 

 

Al Bundy now has a new, cushy job as the trusted companion, riding and show horse to his new young human.

He's going to have a great life!

 

 

 

 

 

Lovie Dovie Linda

March 2008

Linda and Grittle were adopted by a green community, http://www.greenways.com/They have a wonderful, large field with a turnout shed and will be taken care of by a professional horseman.

Their chief job is to be spoiled by the residents. They will also decorate this beautiful community.

One of the neighbors in the community, Sandy, feeds the girls every morning.

 

They are ambassadors for the thoroughbred breed.

 

 

If it were not for the generosity of this wonderful community, both Linda and Grittle may not have such a great future.

 

 

 

 

Grittle

March 2008

Grittle served her human as a racehorse and broodmare until the age of 21.  At that time, they didn't want her any longer.  She was to be sent to the auction and we all know what that means for a 21 year old mare.

Both Grittle and Linda will live in the same place.

 

Special thanks goes to Pat and her husband who developed the property.

Fortunately, the kindness and generosity of the green community provided a wonderful alternative to a horrible fate.  Now, instead of a inhumane death, Grittle will live out her life in a virtual wonderland.

Go to www.greenways.com for information about living green.

Thank you.

 

 

 

Pegasus Jet

April 2008

PJ was on his way to a terrible end.  No longer useful to his trainer and owners, they wanted him gone by any means.

Fortunately, we were able to find him a home with lots of love.  He'll be rested and nurtured back to good form.  Hopefully he'll be a riding horse someday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALittle Simplicity

April 2008

There is too much to say about this very special horse in this amount of space.  For those of you who are new to this site, he has a very special story.  He has lived a "pony fairlytale", so to speak.

You can click on this link to see the beginning and then this link to see the middle of his wonderful story.  There is no end, he is thriving and Leighton Farm was honored and blessed to take part in this.

I can tell you there are many people who dearly love this horse and I am one of them. 

 

 

 

 

Rated Jet

April 2008

 

 

Jett is a horse who found his way into my heart.  Such a calm and gentle soul.  Within days of his arrival to Leighton Farm, he suffered a very serious colic.  Had it not been for the dedication and commitment of Dr. Ed Koronowski, I am certain this wonderful horse  would not be with us.

Now Jett has a wonderful woman to call his own.  Their personalities are very much alike.  Calm and gentle souls.  Sue mothers this horse, giving him the love and protection he deserves.

 

 

 

 

 

Isbon

April 2008

This extremely special horse now has the opportunity to reach his potential!

He is off to begin a career in the show world.  With his incredible movement and looks, I am sure he will be a winner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bill Will

April 2008

From the first day I brought Bill home from the track, I bonded with him.  I've never known a horse who tried so very hard to please.

We call him Mr. Accomadate, because he genuinely wants your praise and approval.

Bill was in trouble within racing, he wasn't able to compete and was slipping down the ladder.

Now Bill has a wonderful girl of his own.  He is Emily's first horse and they have a bright future together. 

May 2, 2009 - Hey, Kim

It's Emily and I just thought I'd send you a little update on Bill. He's been doing wonderfully these days. He's a very happy horse. He has made friends with every horse on the property, including a bossy, loner appaloosa named Rocky. All the other boarders love him because he's so easygoing and sweet! He doesn't fuss when being fed or pull when being led. The kids that take lessons also love him! We've put several beginners on his back and they all adore him. There was one little girl here who was about 7 and he's the only horse she isn't afraid of. He loves to be cuddled and he doesn't even mind when kids run under him or pull his tail! He'll be going to his first show in a few weeks with some other horses from our barn. I got a few good pictures of him when it was really hot out. He got hosed with cold water and then got to go out and play in his gigantic field with his best friend, Spooky! Enjoy!

 

July 7, 2009 - Hey Kim,

It's Emily. I heard that your farm is now officially a non-profit organization. I don't know if you already have enough volunteers but I'd love to come help out there if you need it. I could muck stalls, feed horses or help you exercise them. I still need some community service hours for school so if I could come out for a few hours a couple times a week that would be great. Also, here are some pictures of Bill being used as a camp horse. He's so sweet and gentle that my barn manager decided that 8-year-old beginner riders could control him and she was right. He loved all the extra attention!  -Emily (and Bill!)
 

 

 

 

Celtic Summer

May 2008

Summer was purchased by the trainer of the new owners of Marula Tree.

February 13, 2009 - Hi Kim,
 
Just wanted to let you know how Celtic Summer is doing.  After a few bumps and bruises getting use to turn out she is coming along well.  She has learned that if a horse comes at her while turned out to retreat.  That rolling to close to the fence can get her in a sticky situation.  She was laid up for 7 weeks before I could ride her last October because of bad cut on the front of her hock.  With continuous treatment she is back in training and doing great.  I rode her in a Kenny Krome clinic the middle of December where she jumped for only her 2nd time.  By the end of the clinic she was trot in and cantering down lines like she had been doing it all her life.  Her approach to the jumps is so balanced and when she lands will canter away in the nicest soft canter. With the holidays & cold temps in January she had a mini vacation as well, but with the warmer temps. we are back to work.
 
I'm getting her ready for the upcoming show season and wanted to share a video that a friend of mine took on 2/8/09.  I fell in love with her canter the first time I tried her, but her trot is starting to become just as much fun to ride.  Everyone that comes in contact with her just loves her.  This mare is so much fun to work with and train.  I'm thinking about doing some dressage with her to help in the Hunter ring.    I feel truly blessed to have this mare and will be forever greatful.
 
 

 

 

Kiss A Cat

May 2008

 

This little girl was in big trouble.  She needed a new home NOW.  Kitty was lame and only green broke.

Fortunately, she was taken in by loving horsemen who are nurturing her so she can have a promising future.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pitch Me A Penny

June 2008

 

Penn has gotten himself a great spot with a neighbor of mine.  He absolutely deserves it.  She is well versed in both eventing and dressage.  She also happens to be a show judge.

Just think of the stable foundation of training this lucky boy will receive.  All horses deserve a chance like this, but Penn is such a wonderful soul, I'm so glad he ended up in such capable hands.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Chief Justice

August 2008

Big, beautiful, wonderful Chief is going to Boston to become a dressage or eventer.  He'll have the winter off to grow and then begin training for his new career.

His new owner will have her regular trainer Jiffy give Chief the basics for success in his new endeavor.

I can't wait to see this guy in the Spring, he's going to to a different horse for certain.

April 13, 2009 - Wanted to let you know that PJ was a total wonderchild for his first day back in work today after his long winter off to grow (and grow, and grow...).

Jiffy tacked him up. climbed on from the horse trailer, and we went for a long hack down trails, around the big field at a trot, across the scary rocky causeway between two big ponds, through mud, over rocks, over logs, under tree limbs, and then cantered in the big field and jumped two little jumps! He led most of the way. The only thing he didn't really like but was fine about ultimately was deep mud. He was muttering things about being a turf horse, not a mudder, under his breath.

He is a lovely floaty mover, with three good gaits. He even looks like he's got a little ability to close up behind and stay active, so who knows, maybe we'll find a piaffe in there some day. No problem on passage, he does that all the time.

It was a scary blowy windy day and he was just perfect. The 17 year old palomino quarterhorse babysitter was far more nervous than he was.

So, what a great start! Thanks, Kim, for setting us up for success and to Colleen and the human PJ for giving this dear boy good experiences in his early life to grow on!

Ruth


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Storm Myth

August 2008

 

Stormy found a new home with Crystal.  She's excited and happy to have such a beautiful boy.

I'm looking forward to his updates.

What a sweet horse.

 

 

 

 

 

Princess Warlock

August 2008

March 17, 2009 - I thought I would update you on Princess/Panda.  She was in her first jumper show on March 8th with Katie.  They rode 2'3" and got reserve champion for the division.
She stepped up to the plate and jumped everything without a single refusal - even the skinny.  She rocked at power and speed.
They are going to the CT at Loch Moy on April 4th, then Iron Bridge.  Depending on how those go she will be entered in her first recognized event - maybe Rubicon.

 

October 29, 2009 - Hi Kim,

I thought you might like an update on the girls. Katie and Pandora (Princess) have made a great pair this fall eventing season. They were even mentioned in The Equiery as part of successful Maryland Eventers. They have evented at Loch Moy, Seneca at BN and Iron Bridge at Novice. They are sign up for Rubicon in a week at Novice. They are generally in the ribbons and place on Pandora's dressage score as she always goes double clear. She coming to grips with dressage, but still treats it as a warm up for jumping! She jumped 3' 6" last night without effort or question. She is an absolute dream cross country - both brave and bold to fences, but completely rateable. I have even ridden her some and she makes sure to take care of me. A 10 yr old cantered her in the ring last week and she is fascinated by children.

Pictures enclosed.

Take care,
Cindy
 

 

Purple Wings

August 2008

 I am very happy to say that he has found an amazing new home at a very nice 'A show' farm in upstate New York. Hopefully I will be able to send you a video of him doing the Children's Jumpers in the spring! Both the 13 year old and her father (a music professor at SUNY Potsdam) will be riding him and are excited to have him in their family forever. The trainer has asked us to find ten more just like him because he has that perfect combination child proof and talent that is sought after in children's show horses. -Lauren

Lauren,
I thought i should email you and let you know that wings is doing great!!
We just took him to his first horse show over the weekend and did the Baby
green hunters with him. in the first class is was 1st with 18 horse and
then the 2nd class did had a little mistake and add a step up the first
line. and in the hack he ended up 2nd and then his schooling trip with 51
horse he was 3rd. So he end up Res. Champ. for his first time!
We all still love him and the kid is doing great on him. I think that he
may be coming to HITS with us in May. May 19th- 31st we are going to do
two weeks. They were just taling with us today about it. But if he does
come I will let you know as soon as i do so you can come up and see him:)
I hope all is well for you.
Did you get into Vet school? and where?
Thanks again for sending a great horse to a great home where he will be
loved for ever.
Megan and Debbie
 

 

 

Mother Mary C

September 2008

 

Oh, Mary, I've grown quite attached to you.  I take solace in knowing she is in the right hands.  Although, sold, she has been here to the end of the month and I've been able to see Mary and her new owner together.

It's a great match and the reason I do this.  I'm looking forward to pictures of them at their first show!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandson Coming

September 2008

 

I've placed more than a few horses with Anne Williams.  They don't come any more knowledgeable or compassionate.

This horse will have the best of everything and rise to the top of his chosen discipline.  Anne will find his true talent and develop it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benny The Gap Man

September 2008

January 18, 2009 - Hi Kim,
 
This is Chelsea Brant I bought Benny through you in Sept and thought I would give you a little update on how he is doing. He ran his first horse trial at Poplar place this weekend and was FABULOUS for his first time out. He got a 37 in dressage then had a few green moments in stadium for one very fair rail and one unlucky one.

 

 

He was a star cross country and jumped clean!!! He finished his weekend in 7th place his first time out!!!! He is amazing and I love him to death. I can't wait to take him up through the levels. Hope all is well in MD

Chelsea

 

June 16, 2009 - Hi there,

It's Chelsea from KY. Just wanted to share how Benny's doing. He moved up to novice his second time out and had a fabulous weekend highlighted by another double clean XC round. He is just sooo brave. he has been schooling lots of training and even a few small prelim questions!!! I think I have the horse of a life time. I'm a working student for an advanced rider in Lexington and she takes dressage lessons form a Grand Prix dressage rider every week and last week when the dressage rider was out to teach she saw Benny and I schooling in the the field and fell in love with him. She swore he was a warmblood!!! Hope everything is going well at your place!!! thank you for everything!

Chelsea and Benny

 

November 22, 2009 - Hi,
I have a few videos of benny competing and schooling some cross country. He is going really well. We are even cutting down on our little bucking moments!! hahaha (He thinks he's god). Now that he gets to jump a little bigger its entertaining enough for him to quit adding in his own fun to the situation :). We are getting ready to move up to training this spring!!! I am so excited for him the tougher it gets the better he is. He is amazing!!!!!

Chelsea

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8BvJEdp1EU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTMTiQp2kuY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Vn42-K7f_E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=min2Qg6tCtg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9ImbeGY3UE

 

 

Midnight Swim

November 2008

 

This adorable girl came with Roadie from the same trainer and owner and now they are both on the same farm destined to become eventers.  I can't wait for the spring to see their progress.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Open Road

November 2008

October 22, 2009 - Both Roadie and Patina are staying together.  They are in the hands of a fantastic event trainer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUfpIQNXUXI

anymore like him let me know

they’re both winners

best tb’s I’ve ever worked with.  Cheers, Betsy
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love Reg

December 2008

 

This boy gets to stay in Maryland and his new job will be as a hunter.  I immediately liked his new owner and was hoping things would work out with her.  I'm looking forward to pictures.

 

 

 

 

 

Pick up the Tempo

December 2008

Her new name is Fiona.  This is from her new human:

"Lauren and Jess arrived safely at our farm, with Tempo, about 8pm. They reported she shipped well.
She is so cute and very sweet!  I am so impressed at how calm she is. She is already looking settled.  She is getting to know my two geldings from a distance for now.  They should be fine together in a few days, my guys are pretty laid-back. For now, she is resting comfortably in her new stall. 
You can be assured she will live a comfortable life here.  I adore my horses and spend lots of time with them."

 

 

August 2009 - My name is Carol and I currently own Tempo. We now call her Fiona. She is living a comfortable life on my farm in Georgia. She is a true love. After we got her from Kim Clark at Leighton Farms, we gave her another 3 months or so to let down. My daughter and I have worked with her daily doing groundwork and schooling wtc. She has been an incredible student. She is truely a different horse than the mare that came here only nine months ago. I have attached a few pictures for you. She shares her days with my Oldenberg gelding and our new Oldenberg yearling.
We have started trying Fi over small hunter jumps. She has very cute form and an eagerness to continue. We plan on continuing her training and may possibly show her next Spring.
I would love to know if you have any pictures to share with me. I have tried to find any racing pictures of Tempo, but have been unsuccessful. Please write back and tell me your history with her.

 

 

 

 

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Kimberly Clark

301-579-6898                                                                           

Trainer@LeightonFarm.com