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Leighton Farm "Making the most of each Thoroughbred." |
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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. 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, 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
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,
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 Thanks again for such a great horse,
Lisa McKlveen
Ernabel
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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,
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/.
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
July 7, 2009 - Hey Kim,
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...).
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.
October 29, 2009 - Hi Kim,
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,
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,
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
June 16, 2009 - Hi there,
November 22, 2009 - Hi,
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
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.
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Kimberly Clark 301-579-6898 |