Tips From the Pros: Buying a Farm with Martha W. Jolicoeur

Deciding to buy your own farm is a decision not to be taken lightly. Understanding the process and knowing what properties will align with your needs are crucial factors to consider. BarnManager spoke with Martha W. Jolicoeur, one of the top-ranked real estate agents catering exclusively to equestrian clientele in Wellington, FL, to learn from her experience and expertise.

What are some important first steps a person should take when they decide to start looking for a farm?

When you start the process of looking for a farm you want to make sure you know what your budget is, especially when looking at equestrian properties. It’s important to hire a realtor you trust who comes recommended and specializes in horse farms.

What’s the first thing you look for when you walk into a farm, and what are a few other important qualities or features to look for?

As always in real estate, it’s all about location, location, location. Other features or qualities depend on what the buyer is looking for. For example, if you’re in Florida seasonally, you may need less land than if you’re here for a longer period of time. When looking at equestrian properties, it is important to remember that the maintenance of a property in Florida during the summer months is more than what is required in the winter; it rains every day in the summer, and everything grows really quickly.

Another important feature people who have experience working at a horse farm often look for is the ability to see the paddocks from the barn. Also, walkers are currently an important feature for many buyers. A farm that has a covered walker, or room to install one, is highly desirable.

Are there any features you consider to be absolute dealbreakers?

Anything that would be dangerous to the animals is a dealbreaker. Everything should be in a good state of repair. For example, there should be no nails sticking out in the stabling or fencing. If you’re selling, make sure the fencing is painted and looks nice because fencing is important and makes a strong first impression. For the barn itself, you want neutral colors. A barn that is painted in darker colors often looks dated which is a turn-off.

Are there certain features that are often overlooked but important when looking to purchase a farm?

Drainage is an essential feature for any barn. Also, having shade for the horses in the paddocks is often overlooked but is so important. It is a good idea to consider the direction of the barn and if it catches the wind. Having a breeze blowing through a barn aisle in the summer months is a great quality. Specific to barns in warmer climates, understand that rubber pavers do not do well in the sun. Many people are now using a poured rubber instead, which is easy to clean. You want to look for a surface that is attractive and can stand the test of time. If there is light footing in the ring, you don’t want a dark aisle surface that immediately shows the sand when you come into the barn.

Although shopping for an equestrian property is an exciting experience, it is also a large investment. In order to find a property that will best suit your needs, it is important to do your homework and to work with a knowledgeable realtor who understands the nuances of the market.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

BarnManager Q&A With: Ally Bradley

BarnManager Q&A With: Ally Bradley

Ally Bradley, show groom for Catherine Tyree, a young professional show jumping athlete based out of Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag and why?

My ring bag is a small tack room, to be honest. It of course comes with the usuals, but I will not go anywhere without a stud tree, Advil, or my spare rope halter. All three have proven to be useful on the days that make you say, “Well that wasn’t supposed to happen…”

Photo courtesy of Ally Bradley

What’s something you learned early in your career that has stuck with you?

Early in my career, I was working for Neil Jones while Mavis Spencer was still riding for him. Mavis taught me that there are many ways to do something correctly as long as you keep good horsemanship in mind. There is no one true path to success with horses. You have to leave room for error and stay empathetic with both the horses and humans around you. There has to be a space for differences in styles and personalities. Nothing in the barn belongs in a “box.”

Who inspires you the most in the industry and why?

My industry inspiration would be my childhood trainer, Kathy Slack, who is really more like my mom. When she started her career in horses, it was more of a side gig to teach a few lessons and enjoy her own horses while she worked as a nurse. She bought a small building with land and built the stalls inside the structure herself. Before you know it, she went from two horses to five to 10. Now, 25 years later, between two separate business operations, she oversees 80+ horses and countless riders and students. She does this all while being an incredible mom, instructor, philanthropist, and mentor. Kathy is the coolest person and the one who inspired me to go to Wellington and start grooming. I am grateful to her for everything she has done for me through the years.

What is your best tip for staying organized during a busy show day?

Photo by Lauren White Media

When the days get busy and you start going fast, the best thing you can do is have a clear plan from the get-go. Communication is also important. If everyone is on one page from the moment you feed the horses in the morning to the moment you feed in the afternoon, it makes for an enjoyable experience. If the plan falls apart during the day, it is also important to have a reliable and flexible team of people working with you. I consider myself really lucky to work with the team of people I do. I am quite close and work very seamlessly with my rider Catherine Tyree and my coworker Alex Weinman. We keep it all together by creating a plan every night and sticking to it the best we can. While we are very serious about show jumping, we are also always laughing and having fun. It is extremely important to me to be on a team of people I enjoy working with. If it’s not fun, why do it?

What is one horse show you have never been to but would love to attend?

I have yet to attend Spruce Meadows, and I am dying to get up there. It is such an iconic venue, and I hope to experience it soon.

Photo by Lauren White Media

Mares, geldings, or stallions? Why?

I am just a horse person. I don’t really have a favorite. I fall in love with the personality of the horse before anything else!

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

If I was a horse, I would hands down be a naughty school pony who lived to be 100 years old.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Must-Watch Live Streams in March and April

March and April promise an exciting lineup of competitions to enjoy. Keep reading to find out where to watch some of the top jumping, eventing, and dressage competitions for the next two months.

Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field: March 3-4, 2023

Kick off the 2023 eventing show season with Grand Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field taking place at the Aiken Horse Park Foundation in Aiken, SC. Watch top athletes such as William Fox-Pitt, Will Faudree, Phillip Dutton, Liz Halliday-Sharp, Boyd Martin, and Doug Payne compete.

Where to watch: Horse & Country

Desert Circuit Week IV: March 14-19, 2023

Enjoy hunter, jumper, and equitation competition from the Desert International Horse Park in La Quinta, CA. Week IV of the circuit features four-star show jumping classes as well as World Championship Hunter Rider competition.

Where to watch: ClipMyHorse.TV

Live Oak International: March 16-19, 2023

Live Oak International in Ocala, FL, is the largest international level combined driving and show jumping competition in the country. The highlight show jumping class of the week will be the $222,600 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Ocala presented by Lugano Diamonds. This will be the final qualifier for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League.

Where to watch: ClipMyHorse.TV

Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI: March 16-19, 2023

The Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI and Horse Trial will take place at the Carolina Horse Park in Raeford, NC. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this horse show will feature four-star, three-star, two-star, and one-star eventing competition.

Where to watch: Horse & Country

Saut Hermès: March 17-19, 2023

Saut Hermès takes place at the breathtaking Grand Palais Éphémère overlooking the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. The event highlights five-star and Under 25 show jumping competition. On Saturday, March 18, viewers can watch Le Saut Hermès CSI5* and the Prix du 24 Faubourg CSI5*. Saut Hermès will come to an end on Sunday, March 19, with the Grand Prix Hermès CSI5*.

Where to watch: Horse & Country

Rolex Grand Prix CSI5* at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF): April 1, 2023

The highlight show jumping event of WEF is the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI5* taking place during the final week of the circuit at Wellington International, in Wellington, FL. The class will be held on Saturday evening under the lights in the International Arena.

Where to watch: Wellington International

FEI World Cup™ Finals Omaha 2023: April 4-8, 2023

The FEI World Cup™ Finals Omaha 2023 will take place at the CHI Health Center Omaha in Omaha, NE. The world’s best Jumping, Dressage, and Vaulting horse-and-rider combinations will be in attendance and vying for top championship titles.

Where to watch: ClipMyHorse.TV

Longines Global Champions Tours (LGCT) Miami Beach: April 12-15, 2023

Enjoy high-level show jumping with a beautiful backdrop of the ocean. LGCT Miami Beach features five-star, two-star, and Global Champions League competition in Miami, FL.

Where to watch: GCTV

World Equestrian Center – Ocala April Dressage CDI3*: April 13-16, 2023

Enjoy top-caliber dressage competition at World Equestrian Center – Ocala in Ocala, FL. The horse show will include three-star competition as well as USEF/USDF-rated classes.

Where to watch: ClipMyHorse.TV

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Tips for Building a Course at Home

Setting a course in your home ring is no easy task. To do it well, this skill requires planning and practice. Keep reading for tips from BarnManager on how to successfully set a course at your farm.

Know Your Ring

An important part of coming up with a course is understanding the size and shape of your ring. For example, you will build a different style of course for a long and narrow ring than you would for a square-shaped arena. It is important to acknowledge these differences so you can set a track that rides well and makes good use of the shape of your particular ring.

Consider Your Goals for Your Horse

When setting a course, think about what skills you are working on improving with your horse. Try to add those types of fences or tracks into your course so you can practice them regularly. This could be a trot jump, one stride, skinny fence off of a tight turn, or bending line on the right lead.

Find Inspiration

Course maps from previous hunter, jumper, and equitation classes or finals are often available online. Although your arena may not fit all of the jumps or allow the same number of strides in a line, pick certain interesting parts to recreate. Also, if you are at a horse show and see a course you like, take a picture of the course map to save for later.

Map Out Your Ideas

Before you start moving standards and flower boxes around, draw out your plan on a piece of paper. Even if you have a solid idea in your head, writing it down will help you visualize the entire course and ensure you have the correct number of standards and poles required. List the types of standards and fill, objects such as flower boxes, walls, or gates, you want for each jump so when it’s time to start doing the heavy lifting things will go more quickly.

Make Sure Your Jumps Match

When designing your course plan, think about the types of standards, poles, and fill you have. Try to make the standards and colored poles match in each line, similar to what you would find at a horse show. Although you may not have enough paired standards or colored rails to coordinate everywhere, it is nice to make the course as appealing as possible.

Build a Versatile Course

Most barns cater to a variety of disciplines and have a mix of riders and horses at different levels of experience. When building a course, try to include options that work for hunter, jumper, and equitation riders. Aim to create courses that can be adjusted to accommodate beginners as well as those that are more advanced. When you build a challenging course, include a few welcoming fences that are easy to make small for horse-and-rider combinations of all levels.

Include a Gymnastic

If your ring is large enough, consider adding a gymnastic line somewhere. This is a nice option that gives you the ability to mix it up so horses and riders are doing more than practicing courses. Gymnastics are an excellent way to work on straightness and adjustability. Depending on the difficulty of the gymnastic, it can be a great exercise for riders of multiple levels and disciplines.

Setting an effective course requires both planning and heavy lifting so make sure to recruit some barn friends to help!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Tips for Walking a Jumper Course

Jumper courses are often technical and include lines where riders have several options for track and striding. For this reason, understanding how to effectively walk a jumper course to come up with a successful plan for the show ring is essential. BarnManager spoke with U.S. Olympic silver medalist and international grand prix rider Peter Leone to learn his tips for walking a jumper course.

Know the Format

The first step to walking a course is knowing the type of competition. When I walk a course with a student, I always ask them what kind of class it is, and I expect them to know the answer. Knowing the format tells us how we need to walk that course in order to strategize how to win and be competitive. For example, I’m going to have a different plan for a speed class than I would for a class with a jump-off.

Make a Strategy Based on Your Horse

It is important to take into account your horse’s strengths and weaknesses during a course walk. When I walk a course with a student, and it’s a jump-off or speed class, I’ll explain the striding, turns, and angles the winner will do. We then take that information and personalize it to their horse based on its strengths and weaknesses. Strengths to think about could be the horse is brave, quick, slow with a big stride, or careful. On the other hand, we also consider if the horse is spooky, jumps hard to the left, or is very aware of and drawn to the in-gate.

Anticipate How Your Horse Will React to the Jumping Questions Being Asked

Photo by Jump Media

It is important to consider how your horse will react to different jumps in the arena. If you have to jump a spooky wall heading into the end of the ring, ask yourself how you think your horse will react to that. If your horse is the type to shrink back and be hesitant about boldly approaching that fence, then understand that jump could be a problem and come up with a plan for how you, as a rider, can help your horse. For example, I would make sure to get straight to that jump, have a short, active canter, good connection, and also let my horse see it during our entrance. Another fence you may have to consider during a course walk is a plain, airy plank. The careful, attentive horses will pay attention to the plank, but the big brave horse will not give it the same amount of respect. So, when you are walking the course make sure to think about what you can do to make your brave horse pay attention to that jump and give a good, clean jumping effort.

Jump location is another important factor to look at during a course walk. Anticipate how your horse will react to a jump going toward the in-gate versus one going away from the in-gate. Look for jumps on tricky angles or blind turns and come up with a plan for how you can give your horse the best chance of jumping the fence clear.

Look at Footing Conditions

The course walk gives you an opportunity to see what the footing conditions are like. You can identify if the ground has a nice texture, if it is firm, or if it gives way on the turns. At the majority of competitions now the footing is so good that horses’ strides are longer than we expect. Oftentimes when we walk a line and think it will ride long, it ends up riding normally. This is because of how much the footing has improved over the years, so it is something we should think about when walking a course.

Pick Spots To Save Time

During your round, you will not jump every fence dead center, especially when you are going against the clock. When you are walking the course, you should pick particular spots on the fences that you aim to jump. When walking a broken line or a line to a line, always walk a 12-foot stride and the direct track first as opposed to the wider bending track. A direct line will help save time so only put big bends in your broken lines if you have to. Identify other places where you can cheat the clock and be under the time allowed. This might be turning on landing and galloping over to the next jump or making a tighter turn to a jump that is friendly and relatively low risk in terms of having it down. If you can cheat the clock in certain places, then you can take time to those trickier obstacles or combinations that need a more respectful approach.

Make a Smart Entrance

While walking your course you should also consider your entrance. Preloading, when allowed, and making a smart entrance is to your advantage. When you enter the ring, make sure to let your horse see those critical fences or possible problem areas in the course. When deciding your entrance, you should factor in your particular horse and what you think would be most beneficial for them to see such as a combination or spooky oxer.

No matter the height or level of track you are riding, coming up with a solid and effective plan during the course walk will go a long way to helping you have success in the jumper ring.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Tips for Competing in a Night Class

Competing in a night class under the lights can be overwhelming for both horse and rider. Although it is technically just another class, the atmosphere can be intimidating, especially if it is your first time. Continue reading for a few tips from BarnManager on how to successfully conquer a night class.

Practice Under the Lights

Photo by Jump Media

Competing under the lights is very different from showing during the day. It may take your horse a little time to adjust to the different lighting and shadows that can appear. If possible, it is best to ride your horse in this type of setting before entering the show ring with them. Some horse shows allow hacking in the ring the morning before the show starts while the lights are still on. This is a great way to allow your horse to experience the effects of lighting in the ring and on the jumps themselves. Riding in these early morning conditions can also help you identify sections of the arena that may become spookier as the light changes. Another option is to arrange to visit a nearby farm that has an outdoor arena with lights where you can practice at night.

Plan Your Horse’s Schedule

When you show during the day you typically prepare your horse in the morning. When competing in a night class, it makes sense to rethink your preparation schedule. For example, you will probably want to lunge and/or ride your horse later in the day than usual. It is important to think through this new schedule to avoid your horse being in its stall all day or rushing last minute to lunge them.

Feed at an Appropriate Time

When competing in a night class, be sure to feed both yourself and your horse before the start of the competition. Plan your horse’s meal early enough to allow them time to properly digest their food before going to work. Depending on when the class starts and where you go in the order, you may be able to eat dinner beforehand as well. Even if you prefer not to eat a full meal before competing, make time to have a healthy snack before you show.

Organize Equipment

Night classes can bring out a lot of nerves in riders, so it is important to plan ahead to help you feel as relaxed as possible. Organize and set out all of your equipment early.  Think through the timing of your day since it will be very different than your typical show schedule. Write it down on paper or on your phone so you can refer to it when you get busy. These kinds of steps will allow you to focus on your plan for the night class instead of worrying about lots of last-minute details. Consider also laying out and organizing your aftercare products and wraps so that process will go smoothly once you are done showing. Night classes often require early mornings and late nights so having everything in place can help save time and energy.

Photo by Jump Media

Complete Additional Tasks Early

Plan to complete any additional tasks you have scheduled for that day as early as possible so you have time to focus on the night class. This may include riding other horses, organizing equipment, finishing up work-related items, or doing schoolwork. You do not want to be distracted while you are trying to get your horse ready, walk the course, create your plan, or watch other riders go in the class. Make sure you leave enough time for yourself to take a moment at the ring and go over your strategy for the course.

Take a Breath and Enjoy

In the end, a night class is just another competition. Do not put too much pressure on yourself, and remember to trust the partnership you have with your horse. Before you enter the ring, take a deep breath, pet your horse, and make sure to enjoy the learning experience.

While showing under the lights may look like a piece of cake when you watch the live streams, it is often a difficult setting for certain riders and horses. Successfully competing in a night class is a skill that requires practice, preparation, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

BarnManager Q&A With: Kristina Spellman

BarnManager Q&A With: Kristina Spellman

Kristina Spellman, Manager for Hubbard Horses LLC, located in Wellington, FL

What are three things that are always in your ring bag?

I always keep treats, vet wrap, and a towel in my ring bag.

Photo by Tryon x Natalie Suto

What is the most helpful habit that you practice at the barn?

I find that it is very helpful to follow a daily routine to stay organized.

How do you foster a great team environment in your business?

I try to always promote open communication. I find communication to be important when you are part of a team because it’s the best way to make sure everyone is on the same page about the horses’ care and the schedule. This way nothing gets overlooked and everything runs smoothly. Also, I think it is really important to have a positive attitude even during difficult days.

What’s your best tip or hack for grooming and horse care? Where did you learn it?

My best tip is to curry a lot. I have learned this through working for a number of top professionals in the industry.

What is your favorite equestrian competition and why?

I really enjoy Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, NC. It’s a beautiful facility with great footing. Also, on days when you’re not competing it is nice to take the horses out on the cross-country field.

Photo by Tryon x Karli Dannewitz

If you were a horse, what would you be and why?

I would be an amateur jumper because I’m reliable and always try to have a really good attitude. Plus, I know my owners would spoil me!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Six New Year’s Resolutions for Equestrians

Have you chosen your New Year’s resolution for 2023? If you are considering any equestrian-focused goals this year, keep reading for a few ideas from BarnManager.

Fix One Habit

Every rider has one bad habit they are always being reminded about during lessons. Instead of having a broad goal to become a better rider, try focusing on improving that one flaw. It may be something small like lowering your hands, not leaning to the right, or keeping your shoulders tall. Every time you ride, keep that one habit in mind, rather than a long list of things, and before long you will see progress.

Add More No-Stirrups Work to Your Routine

This year, try to make every month “No Stirrup November.” Begin with small steps, like adding it in for 5 minutes once a ride and then build from there instead of torturing yourself once a month or only doing it when your trainer asks for it in a lesson.

Take Care of Your Tack

Photo by Jump Media

Cleaning, oiling, and conditioning tack are extremely important tasks that often get skipped. Leather tack is expensive and the more regularly you take care of it, the longer it lasts. This year, make a plan to clean your saddle, bridle, martingale, boots, and other leather equipment after every ride and oil and condition the leather once a week.

Organize Your Paperwork

Organizing your horse’s or barn’s paperwork is a daunting task, but a necessary one. Making sure paperwork like health certificates and lease agreements are up to date and in an organized location is key. If you are organizing your barn’s paperwork, set aside time once a month to confirm all information is current, new horses have been added, and everything is still in the correct place.

(Did you know? BarnManager can help you organize all of your paperwork so that it is in digital form, easy to access, and readily available.)

Spend More Quality Time With Your Horse

Whether you are a professional, junior, or amateur rider, you probably have a busy schedule that makes it hard to spend time with your horse. Between riding, showing, work, and school, finding free time to just be with your horse can be tricky. Promise yourself you will carve out a little time during most visits to the barn to groom, graze, or simply hang out with your horse. Even if it’s only for an extra 10 minutes, this quality time will give you both a well-deserved break to relax together.

Photo by Jump Media

Be Grateful

It is all too easy to compare yourself to other riders, owners, or trainers in this sport. This year, make a point to be grateful for the opportunities and horses you have instead of focusing on what others are doing. Everyone has their own path so make the most of yours and take time to be thankful for the horses and the people you have in your life.

For 2023, stick with a few simple, specific resolutions rather than big, overwhelming ones that are difficult to maintain. Before long, you will find your new year becoming more enjoyable!

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!

Horse Show Highlights From 2022

As the year comes to a close, many enjoy the tradition of reflecting back on favorite moments. BarnManager caught up with three grooms and managers to share their highlights from the 2022 horse show season.

Caroline McLeese

Rider, Manager, and Assistant Trainer for Double H Farm, located in Ridgefield, CT, and Wellington, FL

Photo courtesy of Caroline McLeese

What was your favorite memory of 2022?
I had the opportunity to show one of Quentin Judge’s horses, HH Qualido, in a national grand prix at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY, this spring. We ended up double clear and third, which was an exciting result for our first bigger class together. McLain Ward won, and Rodrigo Pessoa was second, and being in the ring for awards with two riders who I have looked up to for my entire riding career made it even more special. On top of that, the whole Double H team had quite a busy day between showing and getting a few horses to the airport, and I was super impressed with how everyone kept things moving. It was one of those rare days where everything came together just how it was meant to!

What are you most looking forward to in 2023?
I have a horse to jump some two-star FEI classes with this year, Moncler van Overis. I’m really excited to keep getting to know him and see where we go together.

Stephanie Nell

Groom for Amethyst Equestrian, located in North Salem, NY, and Wellington, FL

Photo by Sportfot

What was your favorite memory of 2022?
My favorite horse show memory from 2022 was from the beginning of the year when Rodrigo Pessoa and Lord Lucio finished seventh in the $216,000 NetJets Grand Prix CSI4* during Saturday Night Lights at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. Lord Lucio is one of my favorite horses to take care of, so it was a very special night. I also love the exciting atmosphere during the Saturday Night Light classes.

What are you most looking forward to in 2023?
I am excited to now be grooming for Rodrigo and Alexa Pessoa’s student, Maison McIntyre. Maison is a junior rider who has a lovely string of horses ranging in different competition levels. This summer we are going to Europe to compete, so I’m really looking forward to that trip.

Kimberly Graves


Former Groom for John French, located in Wellington, FL

Photo by Jump Media

What was your favorite memory of 2022?
My favorite memory of 2022 would definitely be World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) week at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, FL. The $100,000 United States Hunter Jumper Association/WCHR Peter Wetherill Palm Beach Hunter Spectacular night class lived up to its name. It was truly spectacular. I had two horses in the class, Babylon and Milagro. They are both young and promising horses. It was my first time grooming horses for the class. I have watched this class in person and on live stream since it was available, and I have followed the sport and hunters since I was nine years old. I always dreamed of being a part of this night with a special horse or rider, and this year that dream came true. John French rode Babylon to an eighth-place finish that night for owners Ariana Marnell and Marnell Sport Horses. Just taking care of a special horse that qualified for that class was a check off my bucket list. I also had the honor of accepting the Mark Gregory Award for the best-conditioned horse of the first round of the class for Babylon and Marnell Sport Horses. That was the icing on the cake. I always take great pride in making sure the horses I care for are healthy, happy, and shiny!

What are you most looking forward to in 2023?
I’m looking forward to starting a new chapter in 2023. I’ll be looking to find a new team to join in the new year. I’m also looking forward to checking more boxes off my bucket list like going to Devon and all of the indoor shows.

Have questions about utilizing BarnManager or want to give it a try for yourself? Request a live demo here!

BarnManager is designed to be a part of your team, with the compatibility and credentials necessary to improve communication, simplify the management of horses, and get you out of the office, off the phone calls, and into the barn with the horses you care about! Click here to get a free demo and find out more!