Mack Hill Blogosphere

She Said Yes.....

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 02:12:00 +0000

Big news. Today Theresa's boyfriend Pete made a surprise visit to Mack Hill from Colorado (OK-- it was a surprise for Theresa. The rest of us knew he was coming). Upon his arrival and following a somewhat bewildered and confused greeting from Theresa, Pete popped down on one knee in the middle of the barn. As the adrenaline started to rush for all those in ear shot, he asked Theresa those magic words.... "will you marry me." Without hesitation, Theresa said to Pete, "I am late for a lesson now. Gotta go. You know how busy I am. Next time you should call in advance and let me know you are coming. Geez Louise."

(OK, that's not what she said but can't you just see her saying something like that?). In fact, Theresa said an emphatic YES to Pete's proposal. And there, among the many recent show ribbons, hay bales, loose tack and with the heavy oder of leather and manure wafting through the air, Pete and Theresa made a gi-normous (combination of gigantic and enormous) step toward spending the rest of their lives together. And we all hope that the manure they had to deal with today is the most that they encounter in their exciting new journey together. Congratulations you two.

Don't Rain on Our Parade

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 02:00:00 +0000

Come cheer on Mack Hill in the Amherst 4th of July Parade. The Theme is "Celebrating the Founding Fathers." (Hey-- what about the Founding Mothers? What's up with that?). Tommy will be pulling our float which is entitled "Their Greatest Gift." (Come see what the gift is). Also, several horses, riders and parents will march under our Mack Hill banner (If you are marching, please meet at the farm at 8:00 am). We hope to see you there.

Jumping to the Moon at Oakrise

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:03:00 +0000

Well the Oakrise Jumping Schooling Show was a huge hit. Everyone stepped up and did something new and different. Krista got Waldo to confront the evil green jump. Katie-- a day end Champion and Reserve Champion-- got Chexy to jump two feet (who knew?) Anna-- our day end Champion--showed us that she is now ready to be a jockey at the Kentucky Derby. Shanna-- a day end Reserve Champion-- had Cannoli soaring like never before. And Coach Mercy put on a clinic of her own jumping Cash and Treyburn and won a day end Champion and Reserve Champion for her efforts. Lauren was one gigantic cheering section. Molly gave us all a scare with her fall off of big Trey. They are picture perfect pair so we look forward to you next outing on him. And don't scare us like that again......

Click here for pictures of the show.

Wet'n'Wild Week One

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:06:00 +0000

Despite Mother Nature's efforts to wash away the week, the Mack Hill Campers persevered. Highlights of the week included gymkhana games with Gabe, showmanship with Jess, farrier lessons with Lady Di, bobbing for apples (the horses, that is), swimming between rain drops, riding the clydesdale Tommy and the final show. Lots of smiles and lots of ribbons for all. Click here for some pictures.

Congratulations Souhegan Riders!

noreply@blogger.com (Theresa) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Coach Jess and Coach Theresa would like extend their congratulations to the summer Souhegan Riders Show team:

Jess Stepanack
Katie Brunelle
Lauren Weinstock
Emily Stone
Ally Martin
Erin Johnson
Hannah Gagnon
Erin Shields
Katie O'Connell
Amanda Geisinger

Girls, we look forward to a fantastic season and can't wait to get started working with you all! Remember...our first practice session is on Thursday July 10 at 4:30. We ask that you please show up about 15 minutes early for this practice. Congratulations girls!

Oak Rise Gymkhana

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 21:53:00 +0000

Even though we only had a few competeing today at the Oak Rise Gymkhana Show it was a fun filled day! The day was filled with smiles and ribbons!

Sue rocked the first half of the day in the W/T division, ribboning in Speed Barrels, Keyhole, and Dash. Unfortunately her day came to an abrupt end when she hurt her knee. We hope you feel better soon Sue!!

Katie started out the day in W/T but had a need for speed and moved up to the 13 and under division. Her and Chexy raced through keyhole, dash, speed barrels, and cloverleaf barrels, taking ribbons in most.

After Sue left I managed to get Toby in a cloverleaf barrel class where we took 5th out of 12. Needless to say I dont think he has a career as a gymkhana horse ahead of him.

Congrats to our friend Leanne for getting reserve for the day in the rookie horse division. And thanks to Lauren Face and her father for coming out to support everyone!

We had a great day guys! Thanks everyone for coming out!

Proud, proud coach!

noreply@blogger.com (Mercy) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:55:00 +0000

First off, it is a good thing I have waited until the next morning to gush about the team. This entry would have been twice as long had I written it when I got home.

I am so very proud of the Souhegan Riders. You all did an outstanding job. We ended up bringing home a mess of great ribbons, but most importantly, everyone rode at their very best. Some rode better than I had ever seen!

I have to admit, I was taken down memory lane as the bathing and braiding crew got to work on Saturday afternoon. The silliness increased as the hours wore on and I had a blast chit-chatting with the girls as we got everything prepared.

We have promising braiders coming along. Mae, Kelli and Katie did a super job with their first horse show braids. Erin and Ally M went to town with the clippers and Allie W bathed until she could bathe no more!

The early birds, Anna, Alicia, Ally M, Julia, And Emily helped get us loaded up and out the door. Assistant Coach Mollie came early too. She wasn't there to help the night before because she was GRADUATING!! Congrats Mollie.

Once at he show, it was smooth sailing as all the riders worked in pairs to get themselves ready and help one another out. The horses were all very well behaved and there was no mischief at the trailer... at least from the horses!

I'd like to say, "Yeah for hainets!" We had everyone all tucked in and only a few hairs poked out on anyone. I threatened to cut off stray hairs and they all disappeared.

Poor Erin cleaned tack and clipped horses the day before, and was unable to finish her day in the saddle as her hip was killing her from a previous fall. We missed you and hope you are better soon!

I cannot say enough how proud I was that everyone, parents and all, had great supportive attitudes for the entire day. We had a massive cheering crowd. Our huge banner and matching saddle pads were done right by everyone's turn-out, rides and sportsmanship. I imagine we turned a head or two for good reasons!

I know how thrilling it is to win a ribbon, and a blue one at that. Even if the judge didn't think your particular ride was stellar, know that I thought every one of you rode your very best and you were kind to your horses, teammates, and parents. Thank you for that. You are on your way in your horse careers.

The O'Connells have gone above and beyond in their support of the team. We are so very lucky to have owners who care and want to provide for us the way they do. Endless thanks to them.

Our hospitality tent was a great treat. So too were the coolers full of drinks and piles of snacks. Next time, I will be sure to assign a very important food group for the horse shows: chocolate!

I cannot wait to praise you all in person on Thursday for our "fun" ride. I know you may not think you can have too much fun with me watching, but I will try to let loose a bit!

I really am tickled with pride. Good work everyone.

Oak Rise Provides a Rainbow of Colors for the Souhegan Riders

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 22:11:00 +0000

The Souhegan Riders had tremendous success today at the Oak Rise Equestrian Show in Goffstown, New Hampshire. Every member of the team gave 110% percent for a terrific team showing. Individually, most of the ribbons earned were in First, Second or Third place. All of the practice and primping of the horses paid off!

While we are proud of everyone who competed today, we are especially pleased that many of our riders won Champion or Reserve Champion for their overall performance.

Champion Becky Weldon riding Fancy Shmancy ("Princess")
Champion Emily Stone riding Jet Bars Champagne ("Champagne")
Champion Susan O'Connell riding Ima French Chocolate ("Toby")
Champion Katie O'Connell riding Chex Away ("Chexy") and
Reserve Champion Allie Withee riding Jet Bars Champagne ("Champagne")(not pictured)

Congratulations to Head Coach Mercy Zaveri (second from left") and Assistant Coach Molly Startop (not pictured) for their great success.

Pictures of all of the riders can be found here.

Say hi to Treyburn

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:24:00 +0000

Treyburn is a 17.1 hand quarter horse appendix currently on trial from Townsends Training Farm. This gentle giant jumps 3'6" and has a fluid hunter under saddle stride. He will be in contention in any show he enters. Come watch this big boy float around the ring.

Souhegan Riders Equestrians Compete at Oakrise Show

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:06:00 +0000

Come cheer on the 13 member Souhegan Riders as they compete on Sunday June 15, 2008 at the Oakrise Equestrian Series in Goffstown. Classes begin at 8:00 am and will proceed all day. You Go Girls.....

Mack HIll brings home the blues again!

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:06:00 +0000

Three Mack Hill Riders participated in the Apple Valley show in Fremont, New Hampshire this past Sunday and all three brought home blue ribbons. Congratulations to Jess Stepanack on getting her first blue ribbon on Tucker in Western Pleasure and several red ribbons as well!! Tucker performed well in both his English and Western classes under Jess' careful guidance. Katie O'Connell also took home a blue on Chex Away and several red ribbons as well. Chexy just can't be beaten in the trail class!! Toby was a complete gentleman for barn owner, Sue O'Connell, who brought home several blue ribbons for the day. Next show -- June 15 at Oak Rise in Goffstown where the Souhegan Riders 13 team members will compete for the day!! Go Souhegan Riders!! Come watch and support the team for the day!

Welcome Western Trainer Jacki St. Cyr

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Wed, 28 May 2008 11:42:00 +0000

Jacki St. Cyr joins us this summer to help train our western pleasure horses. Jacki is from Sutton, New Hampshire and just finished her freshman year at Findlay College. In addition to training three project horses which she is finishing for sale, Jacki will assist with lessons, camps and training rides. FoxBrook Farm will come alive again with a lot of training work happening there. Welcome Jacki!

Jacki on her two year old trainee, Razzle.

Summer Riding Team

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Wed, 28 May 2008 01:57:00 +0000

Calling all competitive riders. The Souhegan Riders summer term is approaching. This session will be coached by instructor-- and new mom-- Jess Ellia. Both Hunt Seat and Western Pleasure Riders will be accepted on the team.The program will run for 8 weeks from July 10 to August 28, 2008. Team practices will be on Thursdays from 4:30 to 6:30. The team is open to riders between the ages of 11 to 17. All riders, including those in the Spring Session, will need to try out for Coach Jess.

The cost for this term will be $400. This includes all of the practice/training sessions with Coach Jess as well as the trailering and use of a Mack Hill horse at two shows at which the team will compete. Riders are responsible for the cost of their own registration and class fees for each show (generally around $60 per show).

Co-Presidents of the Mack Hill Fan Club of New Jersey

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 26 May 2008 14:10:00 +0000

Congratulations to Eva and Elizabeth Fortunato on the celebration of their First Holy Communion. These two ladies-- who live in Fort Lee, New Jersey-- have memorized the horses on our web site and are big Mack Hill Fans. So, it is only fitting that we name them as the official Co-Presidents of the Mack Hill Riding Academy Fan Club of New Jersey. All of the New Hampshire O'Connells send hugs and kisses to all of the Beyers and Fortunatos. We love and miss you all.

Tommy's New Wheels

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 26 May 2008 02:36:00 +0000

Check out the sweet new ride for Tommy to drive. Built in Amish Country, Pennsylvania, this Spring Wagon has a classic feel. We look forward to cruising the Amherst Historic District in style. Thanks to Kelly and Craig MacCorquodale for delivering this new rig from Pa to Mack Hill. You guys are terrific.

Cash has a lot to smile about....

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 26 May 2008 00:47:00 +0000

Today, the Mack Hill Riders had great success at the Oakrise Farm Pleasure Show series in Goffstown, NH. The Souhegan Riders will be competing at this venue later in June and we wanted to get some real-time experience at the farm. Congratulations to Coach Mercy Zaveri who won Champion on Cash in the Green Horse division. This was only young Cash's second show and he really showed that he is ready to compete. Katie O'Connell was Reserve Champion on Chex Away ("Chexy") in the walk trot division which had 22 competitors. Shanna Barrow rode Blue Suede Shoes ("Elvis") in his first show and placed second in the hunter hack class. Special thanks to Liz Rose, Neelan Zaveri, Nora Zaveri and Prenav Zaveri for helping all of the riders all day long. Congratulations to all of you. On to the Apple Valley Show next week.

Pictures of the Oakrise show can be found here.

"We are the Champions...."

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:13:00 +0000

Congratulations to the Mack Hill Riders who competed in the NHQHA May 2008 Novice Show in Dover, NH. Sue O'Connell earned High Point Champion in the AQHA Division. She earned High Point Reserve Champion in the Open Division. Katie O'Connell earned High Point Reserve Champion in the Open Division. Shanna Barrow and Anna Foster earned first places in their jumping class. Jess Stepenak got the thrill of the day flying through the barrels and poles on Tucker. Lauren Smith made Chip look like a Champion even though the judge did not agree. Special Thanks to Coach Mercy for her support. And a huge thank you to Lauren's boyfirend Ian and her dad Brian for tireless help all day long.

Check out pictures from the day here.

Welcome New Instructor Suzie Lundergan

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 18 May 2008 01:42:00 +0000

Mack Hill welcomes new instructor Suzie Lundergan. She joins us as a hunter/jumper instructor. She has considerable riding and teaching experience. Indeed, she owns and operates her own horse facility, The Stables at Winchester Court in Ashurnham, Massachusetts. When you see her around Mack Hill, say hello.

Do You Have a License For That Thing?

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Mon, 12 May 2008 01:57:00 +0000

That Tommy is a working horse. Here, Katie and Scott are taking him for a spin to check out all of the lessons he learned during his 3 months in Amish Country, Pa. A huge Mack Hill "Thanks" to Craig and Kelly MacCorquodale who have helped us in too many ways to list as we take on this new challenge.

Hey Kids... Let's Do a Show....

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 11 May 2008 23:52:00 +0000

Tucker, Toby, Chexy, Blaze, Maverick, and Chip are headed to the AQHA show on May 18! Barn Manager and Instructor, Gabe will be coaching the riders. If you are interested in showing....let your instructor know so we can get you in on the future shows. If you ride one of these horses, and may want to join us at the show -- let your instructor know! Wish us well as Mack Hill hopes to bring home the blues!!

Check out the pictures!

noreply@blogger.com (Mercy) — Sun, 11 May 2008 13:31:00 +0000

If you haven't checked out the pictures that Scott has taken, get to it! It is a great learning tool for you to look at your position while on the horse... especially over fences.

There are a bunch of you jumping ahead of the horse. If you don't know what it looks like, look for someone who is standing forward in the saddle with their crotch over or in front of the pommel of the saddle, while the horse is about to leave the ground. This is dangerous as you could go flying over the ears if they stop suddenly in front of the jump.

Look too, for a good release of the horse's head in the air. These horses are saints for continuing to jump while their heads are being held back by the rider. If I was a horse, I would quit jumping! Special pats for the good horses who are teaching you to jump.

Instructors would be more than happy to discuss your position with you. You can learn so much!

Thanks to Scott for providing the opportunity to critique ourselves.

You can find the pictures on the right side of this page, under the Links, under Mack Hill Photos.

Enjoy!

We Got Us a Princess....

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Sun, 11 May 2008 01:51:00 +0000

Mack Hill welcomes Fancy S'mancy a/k/a "Princess" who is on trial at Mack Hill for the next two weeks. She is 16.2 hands and double registered as a Paint and Pinto. She is 11 years old and ready to start jumping. Her owner bought her from Townsends Training Farm and showed her in both English and Western classes in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Those who have ridden her already say that she "floats" through her gaits and is a very comfortable ride. And she is a looker...

Discount shopping at Stone Pony Tack Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Mercy) — Wed, 07 May 2008 12:30:00 +0000

A special opportunity for Mack Hillers to to their pre-season shopping with at least a 15% discount. Linda, the owner, has offered the discount to us when we come and shop on Monday, May 12th. They close at 5pm. If we get a good size crowd, the discount could be even greater!

Mercy will be on hand to help guide you in making the correct purchases for either practice or the show ring.

Even if it is not in your budget to do a bunch of shopping, at least come by to price out your future purchases and make wish lists!

You can contact Mercy with questions by emailing her at mercycarr@hotmail.com.

Field Trip to Keene

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 06 May 2008 14:45:00 +0000

Miki Clements-Collier is taking a car load of interested folks to watch a show in Keene on May 18th. The cost is $10 to cover the gas. Miki will meet participants in Peterborough at 9:00 am. Please contact her if you would like to particpate.

A Clean Sweep....

noreply@blogger.com (Scott) — Tue, 06 May 2008 14:41:00 +0000

A huge Mack Hill "Thank You" to riders Hannah Rees, Lauren Weinstock, and Jess Rettig and instructor Miki Clements-Collier for their work on the first annual Spring Clean Up Day! You all did a wonderful job helping us shed the reminants of the long winter. Gold stars for you! Thanks again.